Valencia enters the arena in a swirl of scarlet silk as guests happily file into to the arena. A bright smile graces her lips as she move to the table by the sands, offering warm greetings for one and all.

1 Grayson House Guards, Peaches, a lovely white war filly with a peach saddle, Deliverance, an albino falcon, Stormy, a silvery gray hunting hound, Rascal, a hyper terrier, Rosalie, a lady in waiting arrive, following Reese.

Octavian, a silken spaniel arrives, following Zoey.

Waldemai climbs into the rafters accompanied by a bucket of ale, as usual. When Princess Reese comes in, he announces, "I'm betting on her against anyone!"

Reese arrives in the training center while adorned in lots of pink and ribbons. She has a blade at either hip. The Princess looks over the room and then has a smile for Waldemai. "I am very flattered." She says toward him.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Zoey before departing.

Tesha was told to get out of the Tower and go do something. So she'd taken Cora and headed here since there was an sip and spar going on. The Telmar Voice makes her way in and heads for a back table given she's not much for crowds. The redhead settles in next to her guard and speaks with her quietly at the table.

Zoey leans toward Reese. "Do you think he'd say the same things if it were an archery competition with me as your opponent?" she asks with a grin.

Connal, a Northern Wolfhound arrives, following Rosalind.

2 House Mazetti Aspirants arrives, following Marzio.

Waldemai's call to raise a wager upon Reese's formidable skill gets a roar of cheers and applause. Valencia smiles up to the rafters and lifts her glass as she turns to welcome said Grayson Princess with the offer of a gentle embrace and kiss upon the cheek. "Welcome, Highness. It would seem you have earned the good respect of more than a few here," she smiles brightly. Turning she offers Zoey a gentle nod. "It might be a rather tight competition if he did," she offers warmly. "Your skill with a bow is as renowned as the Princess's with a blade," she grins. "Welcome to you as well, Lady Zoey. Will Lord Ian be joining us?

Reese looks over to Zoey. "He might, but it would be a mistake if he did." Reese says softly to the Lady. She then smiles over to Valencia. "Very nice to see you." She says softly to her.

"Me either." Katya comments to Marzio as they step through the door into the arena area, the hand on his arm tightening just a fraction as she lets her eyes scan over the room. One corner of her bottom lip is absently chewed on as she thinks, weighing the options before she makes the suggestion, "Perhaps we should find a drink first?"

Graham enters into the arena not long after Reese but he too is dressed to perhaps spar armor though his helm is attached at his waist while on the other side his sword is in it's sheath. He looks around a moment before stepping further in. "Good evening Valencia." He comments to the host giving her a warm smile. The young man also looks to the others "Princess Reese." He says also looking to the others. "Ah greetings and welcome to the Hart." he pauses before introducing himself. I am Count Graham Byrne." he says the title with an air of not putting much stock into formalities himself.

2 Kennex corsairs, Jaq, a solemn looking assistant arrive, following Evander.

Reese smiles warmly to Graham. "Count Graham, hi, very nice to see you." She softly says in his direction. The girl then heads over to the bar and orders herself a mug of warm cider, her favorite drink.

"Count Graham, what a wonderful sight," Valencia chimes, happy to see the gentleman arrive and move to Reese's side. Another smile and nod is offered to Tesha as well, as she settles into her seat. "We shall start soon, I think. Does everyone have drink?"

Berto meanders into the arena of the Hart, cheerfully grinning, moving in the manner of a marionette with a cut string as he takes in the worthies arranged. He licks his lips as he ambles toward the bar, pausing to give a bobbing sort of bow toward Valencia.

"I'm afraid not," Zoey sighs to Valencia. "He has other duties to attend to this evening."

"Indeed," Marzio says as his own eyes scan the inside of the arena with the wonder of one who has never been into this particular room before. Spying the bar, he uses his free hand to point in its direction before saying to Katya, "We're saved. There's the booze." Then he begins to head in the direction of the bar. While in route, he offers a nod of greeting toward those he knows. "Princess Valencia, Princess Reese, it is good to see the two of you again."

Brannen grabs a whiskey on his way into the throne, and strokes his short beard a few times just to make sure he doesn't have anything stuck in it before he faces people.

Striding into the arena, Baltus glances around at the rapidly gathering crowd before quickly and quietly moving to a ringside table with an expectant grin and motioning to a staff member to bring him a drink.

Rosalind comes silently in, dressed in black, a long bow slung across her back. She lowers the hood, revealing bright red hair--a contrast against her clothes. Her hazel eyes take in her surroundings, however they are inquisitive and kind.

Baltus has joined the ringside table.

Tesha gives a half smile to Valencia and a returned wave when she offers it. "I'm alright at the moment." the redhead states. Then she's going back to talks with Cora and there's a bit of a shrug to something she says.

William, a taciturn quartermaster arrives, following Aethan.

A disappointed look comes and she nods to Zoey, "Well, he shall just have to come and make it up to us," she teases as she turns to smile Tesha's way. "Whatever you need, my Hart is yours," she offers as Marzio and Katya approach. "My Lord Marzio, please be so very welcome. Who is your lovely friend," the little dark eyed vixen smiles to Katya as she offers Marzio a delicate hand in welcome. "Welcome both to my Hart. I'm so delighted to see you here. Join us yes?" she waves to the table.

Valencia claims this

"Ah a drink is definately in order." Graham comments to Valencia's question. "What would you like my friend? I believe I should have a good ale myself." Graham says happily nodding to others as they move into the arena. He moves over to the bar and orders said ale, but only after waiting for the princess's response on what she'd like to drink.

Ramona - A Guard in Ashford House Colours, Bigsby - A Thoughtful Looking Young Man in Nondescript Clothing arrive, following Lisebet.

Evander steps into the arena, looking a little out of place, if only because he definitely doesn't look the sort to be participating. He casts about, trying to catch sight of someone in particular, he approaches Zoey, with a tiny smile. "Lady Zoey. Princess Valencia," he greets the woman Zoey's talking to as well, with a bow. "You're participating tonight?" seems to be directed to Zoey, with the faintest furrows of brow.

2 Ashford Archer, Bethany, 1 Ashford Ranger, Faustus, the feisty, fluffy, three legged kitten arrive, following Olivia.

Zoey makes her way to Evander and says something discreetly in his ear.

"Wonderful." Katya seems relieved to have a direction, and a purpose. Even if that purpose seems to be just getting a drink. When Marzio starts to move she follows, then pauses when he stops to greet Valencia and Reese, letting her attention wander for a moment. Then she offers a faint smile to Valencia, "Lady Katya Grimhall."

Lisebet is late, perhaps, but she comes along, curious to see what is going on. She pauses to take a look around and then heads over to get a drink, before she takes a seat."

Berto has joined the bar.

Olivia wanders in to the Hart wiggling fingers at all the people gathered. She smiles as she notices Lisebet and heads over to her wrapping an arm around her in sisterly love.

Lygeia, a calligrapher and alchemist arrives, following Rysen.

a massive cat with long black fur, Intrigue, a sleek, diminutive raven with blue-black plumage arrive, following Willow.

Aethan enters after Lisebet, a little bit late as well, but he's here! And perhaps here to spar, judging by the axe that's strapped to his hip and what he's wearing, which is at least mostly light armor. He looks around, catching sight of Evander and Zoey first, where they are near Valencia. So, he starts that way as well, inclining his head. "Cousin," he says, "Your Highness. Zoey, I feel as though it's been forever." It's said in a very straight tone, but there's some amusement there, at least.

"Forever and a day," Zoey laughs in Aethan's direction.

Marzio offers a short bow toward Valencia at her warm greeting and he offers a nod to second Katya's introduction. "Yes, Lady Grimhall was kind enough to join me tonight. I have never been to one of these events before, but have heard much about them. I look forward to it." After that, he gestures toward one of the ringside tables and he begins to head in that direction.

Willow has joined the ringside table.

Marzio has joined the ringside great table.

Katya has joined the ringside great table.

Tesha's sitting at the back table and watching events unfold. She doesn't seem like one to fight and instead, is here to spectate. She gives a bit of a look when the Kennex's start pouring in and there's a smile when she sees Aethan, but she makes no move to go and bother the man. She sips at her drink that's been brough to her and waits to see who is going to spar.

"Cousin," Evander greets Aethan in turn with a nod. "The Lady Zoey is intending to fight tonight," he tells him.

Jaerith leads Korka into the Golden Hart, halfway through whatever it is he's saying. "...normally one for religious ceremonies, but I must admit, I haven't slept that well in some time. Leave it to a scholar to have a voice as relaxingly tedious as a babbling brook or the waves rolling in at night." He glances to his companion and adds, "Sorry if I drooled on you a bit. I don't often sleep standing up. But I do appreciate you not letting me fall."

Reese has cider cradled in her gloved hands and she might have missed a few things, but she seems to be in a cheerful sort of mood. The princess goes to join one of the tables. She has a warm smile for Willow and Baltus and then a wave for Marzio. "Hi, Lord Marzio." She notices Evander. "Lord Evandar, hi."

Reese has joined the ringside table.

Only erratically known to attend these things, apparently Willow has decided to show up for this edition of the Sip'n'Spar, as ever, to spectate. She flashes Reese a smile and waves even as she goes to sit at a table, ringside.

Zoey has joined the ringside table.

Drink in hand, Lisebet moves towards the hostess to greet her. "Your highness, It's been a while," she greets. There's a smile for the Kennexes nearby, the Ashford Duchess recognizing many of those here in attendance. "And other highnesses, my lords and ladies," she adds, raising her drink to Reese in particular.

Rysen enters the Arena with Lygeia at his side. His black mantle stirs slightly with his steps as he makes his way to the bar. "Whiskey, please," he says, while Lygeia says, "Tea," in her Northlands accented Arvani. Drink in hand, Rysen searches the arena for Valencia, and spotting the princess, raises his glass in a toast.

Reese has a warm smile for Lisebet. "Duchess, greeting, you look wonderful. How are the twins?" She asks and then waves to Rysen. "And Lord Rysen. This is getting to be quite the gathering."

Graham accepts his ale from the tender and takes a sip looking back towards the fighting arena as if considering if he is going to fight tonight, not always being one to spar himself. He will move with drink in hand to sit at the table nearby the ring however.

For an unhanded non-noble, Korka walks into the room with a toss of her dark hair like she owns the place, chin tilted in the air as she surveys those who are present, "Hm?" She says to what Jaerith says, not actually looking at him, "You weren't actually leaning up against me, I believe that was one of Blessed Brigida's assistants. You might be engaged now. Congratulations."

Rosalind makes her to a table--somewhere, if only to watch for now.

Graham has joined the ringside table.

Evander follows Zoey towards a table, not much looking where they're headed so much as the crowd around them. "Princess Reese. Always a pleasure." He uses her title out of habit despite her requests otherwise, giving a tiny smile and a bow. "Duchess Lisebet, it's been some time. Lady Olivia," he greets the pair with a familiar nod.

Rosalind has joined the ringside table.

Evander has joined the ringside table.

"Is she?" Aethan replies to Evander's statement, looking back over to Zoey as he notes the bow. "This should be good, then." That does not sound like a joke at all -- no, it's said very seriously and with regard for Zoey's skill as he moves toward the table. He catches sight of Tesha then, and there's a brief smile that pulls up the corners of his mouth as he lifts a hand to wave at her. Rysen, too, gets a wave when he sees the man enter.

Aethan has joined the ringside table.

The room fills and reels with happy people and loud cheerful voices as people arrive and prepare by getting drinks or adjusting their armor and checking weapons as need be. Or, in some cases, both. Valencia is in her element, a smile on her face, large dark eyes carefully seeing that her guests are well cared for.

When the time is right, the little vixen excuses herself and steps onto the sands.

Reese hears talk of engagement and seems to take this all very seriously. "Congrats Lord Jaerith!" She says lifting up her drink. Korka is given a smile as well. "I hope the wedding has ships and boat races."



Dressed in southern silks that embrace sensual curves and slender waist, Valencia gracefully moves to the center of the Ring of Valor. Offering a bright smile, she holds up her hands and graciously inclines her head to the arena.

"My lords and ladies, misseres and madams, dearest friends -- welcome to my Hart. Thank you for joining us tonight."

"This evening, we offer you another exciting tournament of exceptional skill, excellent drink and beautiful company. We are so very happy to have you join us, and hope you will enjoy all we have to offer."

"Thank you again for your generosity to our charity and for making our Hart a such a vibrant and welcoming place for all in Arx. Our Hart would not beat so strong, if it were not for you."

"And now, if you please, the bar is open and the ring is ready to receive. Please enjoy the evening! Competitors, if you would please take to the sands!"

Zoey is overheard praising Jaerith: Congratulations on your engagement!

Turning to see Reese, Rysen beams. He comes to stand beside her and bows in such a way as not to spill a single drop of whiskey. "Good to see you, Your Highness," he says warmly. "And you as well Duchess Lisebet. Your voice is absolutely transporting," he says to the Duchess of Ashford Keep. Noticing Aethan, Rysen raises his glass in greeting, and smiling to see him next to Zoey.

Olivia wanders out in to the sands. No armor. Just a cute little dress, and matching shoes. Her physicians coat as well. She yanks a hairpin and holds it in her hand. To the keen eye it would be clear... she has no clue what she is doing. "Who dares fight my mighty hairpins?"


Sir Elrych enters the Arena area as the announcments come, blue eyes glancing about at the decor of asthetics of the place. He's a bit overwelmed so just makes his way over to the bar to take a seat and order a drink, waiting for the fights to start.


The Hart's Sergeant of Arms moves back onto the sands and rumbles out the call, "Lords and Ladies, gentles all, our first match will be Lady Olivia Ashford and Lord Marzio Mazetti. Rise and follow, my lady and lord. You are called to the sands! May the fight with honour and soul. Sir, madame, present yer arms and at yer leisure," he says with a gruff grin, bowing to each and leaving them to ready themselves.

Calling out enthusiastically as she reaches for a candle to light some haze, Willow cheers for Olivia, "Go get 'em, cuz!"

Reese lefts out a soft cheering sound a bit like a woot when Olivia speaks of hairpins. "Go Lady Olivia!" She says, litin gher voice to carry. "I will bet a 100 silver that Lady Olivia wins."

Tesha catches the raising of Aethan's hand and there's a smile to him and she raises her glass in a toast to him. Though she looks curiously to the other that is with him. She then makes herself a bit more comfortable when things get started.

Looking freshly showered and with a subtly more fanciful jacket than usual, Sydney makes her way into the Hart's spectating area with confident ease. She doesn't even really bother to hit the bar, just finds herself a nice little place to overlook the proceedings with hawkish curiosity.

Waldemai cheers and whistles from his usual seat in the rafters. "I'll take that bet, your highness," he calls down to Reese, because, you know, it's a bet.

Jaerith offers bows thisaway and thataway. "If I thought my family disapproved of me courting an Island lady, just wait until they hear that I've become engaged to a godsworn commoner." He scratches his chin. "At least I think she's a commoner. Perhaps she's a princess. Princesses turn up in the most surprising places. Like Inquisitor Mercedes."

Once they have reached the ringside table, Marzio insures that Katya has secured a seat and most importantly a drink. Then as his name is called to enter the sands, he blinks in surprise and glances across his shoulder to where Olivia stands. "Well..." he murmurs, glancing toward Katya. "I guess I shall be fighting after all," he says, standing and moves the short distance to step into the ring. Pulling his weapon from his back, he looks toward Olivia.

Marzio wields Elegant Diamondplate Trident.

"DONE!" Berto calls out toward Reese, sloshing a glass of whiskey at the Princess of Ribbons. He glances toward Waldemai as the other man speaks up first, and then just gives a shrug of his shoulders.

Evander looks vaguely surprised, and then not so much, to see Lady Olivia stride out onto the stands with not a shred of armor. "If only Jan were here to see this," he murmurs, clapping enthusiastically for the woman. He doesn't know her opponent, glancing at him curiously.

"OH dear," Lisebet says. "It appears Olivia - " Sigh. She moves to a ringside seat so she can watch this match. "I am not a healer you know!" she calls out to her cousin, who hopefully is just now leaving after coming to stand near Lisebet. ( I just now caught that, sorry, Olivia!) "But good luck, Olivia!"

1 Ashford Ranger have been dismissed.

2 Ashford Archer have been dismissed.

Bethany have been dismissed.

Reese looks over to Berto and then to Waldemai. "I will take you both on." She says to them.

Faustus, the feisty, fluffy, three legged kitten have been dismissed.

Octavian, a silken spaniel have been dismissed.

"Gods and spirits," mutters Rysen as he turns to see Olivia enter the arena, but hearing Willow and Reese cheering her on, Rysen shrugs, and roars, "Get 'em, Livie!!"

2 House Mazetti Aspirants have been dismissed.

A fight has broken out here. Use @spectate_combat to watch, or +fight to join.

Bhandn has a slightly curious look when he makes his way in. He hasn't come to one of these events, but tonight is the night to remedy that! Despite the fact that sparring is on the menu, Bhandn's own swords are tied up in a peacebond as if to signify that he isn't planning to Spar. He might Sip, though, as his eyes glance towards the bar, but it's the fighting that draws his attention in the end and so he'll aim for a place to watch in otherwise silence.

Reese turns to Jaerith nodding. "So many princesses." She says somberly, but it is a playful somberness.

Seeing that her offhanded comment has landed, Korka's lips quirk into a half-smile and she gives Princess Reese a bow, nudging Jaerith with her elbow, "You're welcome for all the free drinks you're about to receive," she tells him, heading over to find a good seat in which to watch the fight. "Inquisitor Mercedes is an utter delight. Never have I seen such a sparkling personality captivate a room more thoroughly than she does every time she enters into a conversation," she says casually, gesturing towards Valencia, "With the exception of our charming hostess tonight of course."

Graham looks intently at the arena before looking to Valencia when she speaks. He will clap politely watching to see who is up first in the sparing ring. He does turn towards Reese and smiles. "Will you be fighting tonight?" He asks curiously of her before taking another drink from his ale. He will look to her words and chuckle slightly though he reaches to grab a napkin cloth from the table and offers it over to dry off.

Katya offers Marzio a bright smile when his name is called, lifting her hands to applaud for him before she is reaching for her wine. There is a curious look towards Olivia that turns to one of concern when she sees the lack of armor, and choice of weapons.

Waldemai cheers for Lord Marzio. "Up Velanosa, up, up and away!"

A welcoming nod is offered Sydney's way as she arrives just in time to see Olivia and Marzio take to the sands. The crowd cheers heartily, and Valencia smiles, raising her glass to both fighters as they ready themselves. Glancing across the room, Sir Elrych is noted and given quick study, the man seeming to be a new face in the crowd for the little southern princess. She offers him a nod and tuns back to offer a warm smile Aethan and Rysen's way as well.

Reese overhears Korka or maybe she does anyways. She gives her a grin, a dimple briefly bloom and Reese then orders Jaerith a tumbler of rum. She asks the waiter to send it over and say congrats. Reese lifts her gaze to Graham next. "Probably not. I rarely spar in public, but I love watching."

Marzio looks across the sands toward Olivia, glancing her over briefly before he settles into a ready stance. Lifting a hand, he makes a motion for Olivia to make the first move as he begins to circle in the sand.

Olivia checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 5, rolling 37 higher.

Olivia remains capable of fighting.

Valencia is overheard praising Marzio: One of the first to the sands!

Olivia checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 111, rolling 41 lower.

Olivia checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 69, rolling 23 lower.

Olivia is incapacitated and falls unconscious.

Valencia is overheard praising Olivia: A brave and bold lass.

Aethan turns his attention back to the fight, but his attention is caught for a moment by Jaerith's words. His eyebrows raise briefly, before there's a little amused snort, and he looks from the other man to Korka, before he turns back to his table to say something a little bit lower.

Reese is overheard praising Olivia: Well fought!

Reese is overheard praising Valencia: Woot, great gathering!

Waldemai cheers. The fight was short and painful, but it was a fight! "Well fought! Well done!"

Chuck

Korka has joined the corner table.

Jaerith has joined the corner table.

Sydney seems to be agitated as she waits for the fighting to start - she's rather lost in her own little world. Though, she does blink up when Valencia greets her, smiling before turning her full focus on the fight that breaks out below, chewing at her lip, watching every motion apparaisingly.

Olivia furrows her brow as Marzio eggs her on. She rushes in and with her arm fully extended it looks like she is going for the biggest strike she can muster.... but... she is not skilled, nor dexterous. She stumbles as she gets close and drops to one knee. She looks up with a near terrified look in her eyes, but against her better judgement tries to strike the southerner in the thigh with he hairpin.

Chuckling at Jaerith, Willow calls out from her table, "Truly, my Lord? Sounds like you might have been engaged more times than me." Laughter but jovial rather than malicious is in her eyes.

Jaerith takes the rum with good cheer and tilts it toward Reese in thanks. "Good thing there aren't any princesses here. I understand they bite." He takes a long gulp of his booze and glances sidelong to Korka. "I hope that your part in these free drinks doesn't lead you to believe you deserve a cut." To Willow he says, "Just the one time, my lady, though I do hope it's an exciting journey. At one point I should learn the delightful young thing's name."

Reese watches the fight with all this avid interest. She even wiggles to the edge of her seat and sucks in a soft breath. The Grayson then looks over to Jaerith, nodding in response to his words. "Oh, they do, dangerous things, princesses." She murmurs. Reese overhears Jaerith's words and then tries to send Korka a mug of mead as her cut.

As Olivia rushes toward him, Marzio watches her charge with a steady eye. He is just readying his swipe when Olivia trips and falls down. For a moment he blinks in surprise as he looks down at Olivia's terrified expression, his strike held back. And then there is the scrape of her hairpin bouncing against the plates of his armor. He smiles down to her, even chuckling as he shakes his head and uses the butt of his trident to jab into her shoulder in an effort to knock her down rather than to actually hurt the unarmored woman.

Tesha takes another drink of her whisky and then she moves to stand, smoothing a hand over her gown as she heads for the table full of Kennex's. As she approaches, she gives a smile, "Lord Aethan, I was just getting caught up with your brother, Lord Ian, yesterday. So it is good to see you again." she states to the man. Then her stormy gaze turns to regard Evander, but her smile is warm, "And you must be Lord Evander." she looks to him curiously.

Olivia falls backwars and curls up in fear, "Yield!"

"So that's where he was all day," Zoey says to Tesha.

Rysen glances at Willow as the spar begins, and takes a long sip of his whiskey. When Olivia rushes in to attack, Rysen winces and says something to the duskstone-eyed Voice of House Nightgold, with a look of some relief of the skillfully place strike of Marzio. "They don't call her the 'Whirlwind of Disaster' for nothing." He throws back the rest of his whiskey and shouts, "Well fought, Livie! Well fought Lord Marzio!"

Reese is overheard praising Marzio: Well fought!

Rosalind blinks at the ring. Well that was fast, but,"Well fought!"

As soon as Olivia calls out the yield, Marzio slips his trident back over his shoulder and reaches down a hand to help Olivia back to her feet if she will accept it. In any case he offers her a bow of his head before he lifts a hand to the crowd and moves over toward the table to rejoin Katya.

The crowd goes wild with cheers. So much so a few cups fall harmlessly from the rafters as the Hart's more rowdy guests let their pleasure be known.

Mercies rush to help those injured from the ring, checking them over and handing them a stiff drink as the crowd continue to show their approval.

The Hart's Sergeant of Arms, grunt and nods, then moves back onto the sands to again rumble out the call, "Lords and Ladies, gentles all, Lord Rysen Crovane and Lord Aethan Kennex are called to the sands! May the fight with honour and heart. Sirs, present yer arms and at yer leisure," he says with a gruff nod bowing to each and leaving them to ready themselves.

Korka had just been ordering a drink when Reese's ordered mug arrives, "My thanks," she says, lifting it towards the Princess and flashing a smile her way. She has a large drink of it, leaning back with a lazy grace in her chair and giving a nod to Tesha, "Lady Tesha," she raises the mug her way as well. To Jaerith she offers only, "A cut is the least I deserve and less than what I'll charge you for in the end,"

Brannen pops back a full glass of whiskey and eyes Jaerith for a moment. Then he meanders over towards some of the seats that allow him to see the battle well...

Tesha's approach has Aethan looking up, and he nods, replying, "It's good to see you again, too, Lady Tesha. Evander Kennex, Lady Tesha Telmar. Recently returned to Arx, I think, though I might be behind the times." It wouldn't exactly be surprising. He hears his name then, though, and stands up, holding up a finger to those he's speaking to as he makes his way down to the sands.

Aethan has left the ringside table.

Brannen has joined the ringside table.

lifts a hand to her mouth to whistle around two fingers for Rysen when the next round of competitors is announced.

Waldemai dips his mug into his bucket of ale and settles back to watch the next bout.

Evander's gaze is mostly on the fight, as speedy as it is, lips thinning briefly at Olivia's rush. He doesn't look that surprised, though, clapping quietly. As Tesha approaches their table and greets Aethan, he regards her, rising to his feet as she addresses him, giving a half-bow. "I am indeed. I'm afraid you have the advantage of me, Lady Tesha," he tells her, as Aethan introduces them. As Aethan stands to join the fight, he gestures in invitation for Tesha to join the table. "I assume you know the Lady Zoey?"

Lisebet is overheard praising Olivia: brave and well fought

Reese has a smile for Korka that reaches her blue eyes and briefly shows her dimples. "I'm Princess Reese." She says, giving an introduction. She lifts her voice to carry across the room and it can carry. Reese at times as the voice of a General.

Lisebet is overheard praising Marzio: well fought1

Rysen moves to the edge of the arena, and leaps the boundary, taking his place in on the fighting grounds. He smiles as Aethan is named his opponent, and waits to see which weapon will be drawn by the Admiral of the Stormward Fleet.

"And I am Lady Zoey Kennex," she introduces herself to Tesha.

Rysen has joined the ring of valor.

Valencia is overheard praising Evander: A gallant blade of Kennex

Aethan has joined the ring of valor.

Katya starts to applaud again for Marzio as the fight comes to an end, sitting up straighter once more before she reaches for her drink, letting her attention shift around the room to see if she can spot who the next fighters are.

Evander is overheard praising Olivia.

Valencia is overheard praising Aethan: An actual gallant blade of Kennex.. (Sorry!)

Evander is overheard praising Marzio.

"Fair enough, Inquisitor Korka. You'll get far more than a cut, I think," says Jaerith with a meaningful nod toward the brew Reese just sent her way. When Brannen gives him the eye he turns and offers a genial wave. "Good evening, friend. Do enjoy yourself watching the various stabbings and arrowings!"

Marzio is overheard praising Olivia.

Aethan makes his way into the ring, unstrapping his axe from his hip and hefting it once as he inclines his head to Rysen. "My lord," he says, before he readies himself for the fight.

Aethan wields diamondplate axe.

Rysen wields Moria - a rune-etched bastard sword.

As Olivia and Marzio depart the sands, there the silver-haired newcomer turns his attention. While Bhandn does note the call of the next pair to duel off in the ring, he'll take the time during the change of fighting pairs to cast his eyes around, just to see if there are any familiar faces. And sure enough, he sees some, but it's to his comrade in arms that he'll venture, moving over to Brannen to give the Harthall a greeting by way of trying to tap Brannen with about three knuckles, a very soft boop on the shoulder.

Tesha gives a look to Zoey, "He was visiting the gauntlet for a bit, yes. There was another gentleman there that was talking about ship obstacle courses so we were all musing about it." she admits. Then there's a smile to Aethan, "Yes, returned a few months ago." she states. Then there's a nod as he departs to head off. When Evander rises she raises a hand for him to settle back down, "Your cousin Ian spoke of you yesterday and I told him I'd have to introduce myself if I came across you." she offers with a smile. Then there's a smile to Zoey, "We've met briefly yes, but it is good to see you again, my Lady."

Valencia is overheard praising Rysen: The courage of Crovane is easy to see in this one

Tesha gives Korka a smile at her greeting and a raise of her glass as well.

Tesha has left the corner table.

"It's an honor, Lord Aethan," replies, Rysen, bowing respectfully to Aethan. He press the guard of his bastard sword to release his sword, drawing it fully in his right hand, and sweeping his rubicund arming sword in his left. He slides his feet apart into a fighting stance, watching Aethan carefully, and ready to react.

Valencia is overheard praising Waldemai: Favoured and cherished guest who always makes the betting more interesting.


Elrych recieves his drink and takes it from the bar keep, bringing the wooden cup to his lips for a long drink. Placing it down on the counter again, he claps for the winner of the pervious round before watching intently the next.


A fight has broken out here. Use @spectate_combat to watch, or +fight to join.

Evander mostly manages to cover his surprise at Tesha's words. "My cousin was a great help in getting me settles in Arx. There's a lot of adjustement to make," he admits, "Not the least of which the weather." With a tight smile, he glances at Zoey, not too surprised they know each other. His gaze goes forward to the fight, after he re-seats himself.

Lizette, a pretty buxom barmaid leaves, following Valencia.

Lizette, a pretty buxom barmaid arrives, following Valencia.

Valencia is overheard praising Reese: So very gracious and kind to me. I am grateful.

"Are you flirting with me again, Lord Jaerith?" Korka inquires, again without looking at the man since she mostly has eyes for the fight. However she's not rude enough to ignore a Princess and gives a deep nod and a strange little dip of her shoulders in what might be a sitting bow towards Reese, "Korka Glynn," she introduces herself, glancing between the Princess and the fight, "I've got five hundred silver on the guy with the axe."

Berto jingles the silver that Reese had given him, and he settles back to watch the next round, a grin on his face as the pair go back and forth. "Right! I'll put five hundred on Lord Rysen, ay!" He shouts toward Korka.

"A wise bet!" Zoey calls in Korka's direction.

Rosalind is watching the fights and talking quietly, intrest obvious.

When the fight begins, Aethan seems to be having the worse of it. Rysen is definitely hitting him more than he's returning the hits -- since he isn't actually returning the hits at all. However, he shakes them off whenever they land, and backs off for a moment, taking a few seconds to regroup before he moves in again to strike.

Reese looks to Korka, giving her a smile. "Very nice to meet you." She says and then looks to the fighters. "This will be an interesting match. I have no idea who will win." She says before turning to Berto. "You seem to be a betting sort of man." She muses.

"I'm not sure if I'm ever not flirting with you, Inquisitor Korka," drawls Jaerith, lifting his drink to finish it off. "Either that, or your inquisitorial aura is simply too much for me and all I can do is tell the truth in your presence." He looks up to Tesha when Korka introduces herself and offers the Telmar lady a nod. "Lord Jaerith Keaton, my lady. A rare delight." He looks up at the fight breaking out, but doesn't jump in with bets.

A slight smile parts the vixen's lips, but a no less happy and sincere one as the next match begins. Bets are made and all eyes turn to the sands as the fighters begin to circle. The air is thick with excitement, glasses raised almost as often and as high as the cheers. Another smile flashes as Zoey praises Korka's bet and Valencia enjoys a sip of her rich red Lycene.

Tesha gives a smile, "The Kennex brothers do seem to take care of their people, so I am glad that you were in good hands, Lord Evander." she tells him as she takes a seat. Then she focuses on the fight, whispering every so often as she watches Aethan and Rysen in the ring. There's a smile to Jaerith though when she hears her name, "Ah, Lord Jaerith, welcome back to Arx." she offers to the man with a nod.

When Aethan steps to strike, Rysen rushes forward with a double thrust, barely parrying Aethan's attacks. Both combatants are striking with great speed, but neither seems to be able to land any meaningful strikes. Rysen's face is a mask of concentration, and he bounds a step back at the same time as Aethan. He touches his swords together, with a nod to his opponent, and then lowers his stance in readiness to close the distance again.

Olivia shakes off as she makes her way out of the sands, curtsying to Marzio and grunting ever so slightly at the people who cheered her on. "Apollogies... I lost my ballance."

Lisebet moves to meet Olivia, to make sure her sister is okay, after that fight. "Olivia, I have a drink with your name on it. Are you well enough to drink?"

Sydney turns her focus from the sands and to the station of weapons and armor, looking thoughtful and frowning. "...Weapons and armor? Rather out of my area of expertise." She speaks it more to herself than anyone else in particular.

Korka calls out to Berto, "Is Rysen that the guy with the axe or not?" From the jovial tone to her voice she likely assumes not, taking a long swig of mead, which isn't really meant to be swigged, but she does it anyway.

Olivia smiles sweetly at Lisebet, "I feel rather uninjured for having lost a fight. A drink does sound great. Perhaps the brute who brutalized me will join us?" She asks with a grin and a lift of an eyebrow at Marzio.

"Kennex as a whole does, yes. Have you met my sister, the Lady Catalana?" Evander asks of Tesha. "I believe she's hosting a tea of some sort at the Kay in a couple of weeks time. You'd be more than welcome," he tells her, glance cutting from the conversation at hand to the ring, leaning forward a little as things get serious.


Elrych thought he might run into someone familiar to him from four years ago here. However, there had been many deaths in the time he had returned to Lyon's Redoubt. Many former friends having passed on or simply gone on to other places and oportunities. The Lyonesse Knight sits there on the bar stool and sips his ale, continuing to watch the fight with interest. Wincing now and again at some of the hits made.

It seems those few seconds Aethan took to study his opponent did not make much of a difference -- or, rather, they did, but not in the manner he might have wished. Aethan gives away a few hits, one especially that definitely looks like it hurt, judging from the way Aethan moves after it. However, he isn't down yet -- he takes another moment to regroup, and above the din -- somehow -- he manages to hear Korma's words. "Not!" he yells, and he actually lets out a laugh. Apparently he's not too fussed that he's losing quite badly.

Marzio glances around as he hears Olivia, offering a chuckle her way before calling out, "The fight is better from this table. You two are certainly welcome to join me and the Lady Katya. We have plenty of room." Indeed they do, given that it is just the two of them at the ringside great table.

"The Princess said Rysen's the one with the sword, and I've always found her trustworthy!" Berto grins, and turns toward Reese as he drains his glass. "And I suppose I am a betting man, your Highness. What's life, after all, without a hint of risk? A bit of excitement?"

Reese looks over to Sydney, now seeming curious. "What is your area of expertise then?" She asks with interest in her tone.

Rysen presses an all out assault with his twin blade style, feinting high with the arming sword and sweeping the bastard sword low at Aethan's legs. He dashes past Aethan, and then changes direction rapidly to spin in a spiral of blades, before sliding across the sand of the Ring of Valor. He grins when he hears Aethan laugh, before pressing to engage again.

Tesha gives a soft shake of her head to Evander, "I've not had the pleasure of meeting your sister." she admits. "I do enjoy that the Kennex's take good care of their family." she smiles to that. "I've worked with Lord Aethan and Lord Ian before, so when more Kennex arrive I like to make sure I get to know them. I'll see about stopping in for tea." she admits. She does keep her eye on the two in the ring though after she's done talking.

Lisebet has joined the ringside great table.

Reese lifts her gaze to Berto. "You do make a point there. I don't think we met before?" The warrior princess asks. Seh still has the same mug of cider cradled in her gloved hands.

Sydney glances up at the commentary from the colorfully dressed Reese, and simply holds up a hand, offering a wry smile. "I wouldn't say it's an expertise, exactly, as I'm nothin' much special, but I've been known to scrap from time to time." Her battered knuckles seem a testament to that statement.

"Rysen's the bard," says Jaerith to Korka. "You can see it in the way he moves. So this comes down to the way a singer learns to walk versus the way a sailor learns to stand." He tilts his head toward Aethan. "It's an interesting matchup, though I'll put my one silver on the Crovane lord. Lyricism moves."

Lisebet inclines her head, amusement showing. "Indeed, let's go join our new friends," she says to Olivia. "And thank you, m'lord for the invitation." She moves to settle in, her seatouched wool fashionable, comfy and warm, all at the same time.

There can be may things said about Aethan right now -- chief among them that he is not as good as his opponent -- but he isn't giving up. He even manages to get in a couple of hits, finally, and while they may not do too much damage, he'll probably be happy that he didn't walk away without touching Rysen at all.

Bhandn decides now is a good time for a drink, and so he'll make his way to bar, to slip onto a stool and watch matters from there. Stools generally do not require him to take off the swords, provided he doesn't get too ambitious with how he sits. Or needs to turn around quickly, or or or...

Yeah, he'll have tea, and Bhandn will offer Sir Elrych a brief nod as Bhandn situates himself on the stool nearby.

Bhandn has joined the bar.

Reese studies Sydney a bit more closely now. "You mean you brawl, wrestle and box that sort of thing?" She asks.

Olivia follows Lisebet over, drink in hand, "Well fought... I think I can take you next time."


Sitting around wasn't going to do the Knight any good, so he took his ale and hopped off the stool. A nod to Bhandn, "Going to go get a closer look." Walking slowly through the crowd, he passes by Korka and whoever might be there while peering over at the sands. "Huh... Dual Weilding. Interesting." A sip.


"She is very sociable," Evander says of Catalana. "And that's very kind of you, Lady Tesha. I should warn you," he begins, before he drops his voice to murmur something quietly to her.

Aethan's axe lands a glancing strike to Rysen's shoulder, but the footwork he'd trained under the Knight of Ribbons saves him from serious harm. The young Northlander presses forward however, managing to land a glancing thrust of his own, amid another exchange of blows. Rysen circles around, stepping in one way, and then quickly changing directions, looking for a clear angle of attack.

"Of course," Marzio says toward Lisebet as she rises from her seat and comes across to join Katya and himself. "It is nice to meet you. I am Lord Marzio Mazetti, and this is Lady Katya Grimhall," he says by way of introductions, gesturing toward Katya at his side. His eyes shift then toward Olivia and he smiles before saying, "Perhaps so! I think you would have had a better chance if you hadn't fallen."

Waldemai cheers for the fighters. "Go for it all! Bring the heat of steel!"

Aethan checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 3, rolling 47 higher.

Aethan remains capable of fighting.

Sydney nods her head in response to Reese, "Aye, a little bit of all of the above. S'how I scrape together a living, for the most part." She lifts a hand and waves it gently, "But, truly. Beating on the same handful of wharf rats and drunks in the lowers isn't quite somethin' that translates to this sorta thing."

Katya glances up towards Lisbet and Olivia, offering the pair of them a smile, "Hello. Very nice to meet you both." She offers, gesturing towards the multitudes of empty chairs at their table in invitation.

Lisebet might have some advice for Olivia, but she's not mentioning it in public. She does incline her head politely as she's introduced to Katya and Marzio. "A pleasure to meet you both. I'm Duchess Lisebet Ashford, Olivia's cousin by marriage." She's truthfully Duchess-Consort, but that's a heck of a mouthful. "Well fought both of you. Lady Katya, do you also fight? I myself do not, I must admit."

Aethan takes hit after hit -- after hit -- but he just isn't going down. In fact, there's some renewed vigor, it seems, after one of the particularly hard hits he takes, and he lunges forward, managing the first blow he's landed of the evening that seems Rysen might have actually felt.

"Are you only betting on him because I'm not?" Korka asks Jaerith, sounding amused while she watches the fight over the edge of her mug. When Elrych walks nearby she looks up and offers, "We have two hands. I'd rather duel wield two mugs if I had my way of it, however." As Aethan doesn't fall over she lets out a little breath she didn't realize she was holding.

Reese listens to Sydney. "I look forward to seeing you in action." She says, still bright-eyed and curious. Reese then adds to Korka. "That sounds like a drinking contest."

Valencia sits quietly back in her seat, hands folded gently in her lap, her large dark eyes locked onto the match below. A gentle glance aside, she scans the room to ensure all is well, offering warm smile and a graceful incline of head to those with whom she meets eyes.

"I'm betting on him because I am a fellow lover of song, Inquisitor Korka. Did you not know that?" Jaerith shakes his head. "Life with me will be one of constant surprises, I assure you. For instance I won't tell you about my many rashes until it's far too late."

Berto gives a sort of warbling bow toward Reese, a huge, bright smile on his face, showing teeth. "Seen you time or two before, Princess, but I don't for a moment imagine I'm worth rememberance. I am Berto Tiazza, humble proprietor of Grenaldo and Tiazza's in Peddler's Path, and faithful servant to the newly-minted Count of Corvini."

Olivia smiles warmly at Lisebet, then to Marzio and Katya, "A pleasure... Although it seems I may have embarassed myself out there."

Valencia is overheard praising Katya: A brave lady of Grimhall.

The stroke of Aethan's axe sends Rysen sliding backwards in the sand with a loud /HUFF/ as lean knight loses his breath. He rolls head over heels, but bounces up to his feet like a panther, grinning at Aethan to find himself in the midst of such a magnificent duel and heading into deep water. He rushes forward again in a spiral of blades, managing to land a few of the quick sequence of strikes.

Aethan checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 17, rolling 50 higher.

Aethan remains capable of fighting.

Aethan checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 48, rolling 14 higher.

Aethan remains capable of fighting.

Bhandn will watch from the bar in relative silence. The bar isn't judgmental, the seats are accomodating, and he can not worry about anyone knocking anything over by way of bumping the table, as it were. Perfectly logical choices, and he'll be watching Rysen and Aethan with a clinical professionalism, but no heckling or rabble rousing commentary to rile up the duelists come from his lips. They're too busy taking advantage of what the Hart has to offer for drinks.

Tesha gives a smile to Evander, "I tend to be somewhat sociable due to being a Voice for my house, but large parties and things of that nature really aren't something I engross myself in." she admits to him. Then she leans in to listen to his whisper and there's a touch of a smile.

Zoey turns to Olivia. "You served the kingdom by providing entertainment. Nothing to apologize for!" She grins.

Aethan checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 54, rolling 19 higher.

Aethan remains capable of fighting.

Aethan checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 67, rolling 25 lower.

Aethan checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 33, rolling 12 higher.

Aethan remains alive, but close to death.

Aethan is incapacitated and falls unconscious.

"Oh - no, I'm just intending on watching. Everyone's all geared to the gills." Sydney states, rolling her shoulders back in an easy shrug. "I mean, 'lest someone cares to strip down and go fist to fist."

Valencia is overheard praising Sydney: Not many are brave enough to fight with ony what the gods have gifted.

Waldemai cheers the final flurry of the match. "Well done, you two, well done!"

"Nonsense," Marzio says toward Olivia. "The fans cheered for the fight all the same, whether it was short or not. What is there to be embarrassed about if they still cheered?" Marzio says before he glances toward the ring. "Looks like this fight is just about done," he comments as the final blows begin to come in. Looking toward Lisebet he dips his head and says, "It is a pleasure to meet you, Duchess."

Katya's eyes widen a fraction at the question before she shakes her head, "I mean...I can." She directly contridicts her own motion with that answer, "I'm not a fighter, though. Not like some here are."

Rosalind cheers for the ring, for who--possibly her fellow northerner but she's surrounded by southerners, so shhhhhh...

After the long match, Willow whistles and claps loudly for Rysen.


Elrych laughs and Korka's jest, "Yes... That would be a better alternative." He raises his cup in thanks for the laugh. "Sir Elrych Holtzfahller, by the way." He gives a bow just incase. "Not new in town, just fresh from a long absence. Pretty active place here." He nods approvingly, eyes moving to continue to watch the fight.


Reese has the grace to blush at Berto's words, her cheeks pink and her smile is soft. "I have been in there before." The princess says to him.

It was inevitable -- eventually, Aethan was going to go down, but while he does not do it particularly gracefully, he does do it with a smile on his face. He lays on the ground for a moment, catching his breath, before he pushes himself to his feet and reaches for Rysen's hand to shake. "Well fought," he says, his words sincere. "I'll need a rematch one of these days." He looks around then, before starting toward the corner table where Korka and Jaerith are sitting.

Aethan has left the ring of valor.

Aethan has joined the corner table.

Evander nods towards Tesha, still speaking quietly. His gaze flickers visibly towards the front, though there's no sympathetic tension in his expression as he watches his cousin. "Well done," he calls, as the two finish.

Evander is overheard praising Aethan.

Evander is overheard praising Rysen.

Lisebet is overheard praising Aethan: well fought!

Zoey is overheard praising Rysen.

Zoey is overheard praising Aethan.

Aethan is overheard praising Rysen.

Lisebet is overheard praising Rysen: well fought

Valencia is overheard praising Waldemai: Always willing to step up! A delight.

Tesha is overheard praising Rysen: Well fought!

Tesha is overheard praising Aethan: Well fought!

There is a little strangled noise from Korka as Aethan finally falls. "This is why you shouldn't bet on people until you've met them," she sighs, though she does so with a hint of a smile on the corners of her lips, "I should've given him some incentive, like flashing my Inquisitor badge and reminding him that I can drag in anyone off the street for questioning like how could you lose me so much silver?" When Elrych introduces himself she leans back to look up at him, "That's a mouthful. I'm Korka Glynn. And I hate surprises." That last part might be for Jaerith.

Rosalind stands to her full height. Hard to miss this one, and bows her head politely. She gives a friendly smile to those around her and bids farewell,"It was a pleasure to meet you all." To those who were in the ring,"Well fought!"

Rysen has left the ring of valor.

Rysen sheathes his swords with a fluid motion, and steps to Aethan, offing the lord a hand. "Of course, My Lord. You fight with the weapon of my people, and very well." He smiles, and after Aethan's on his feet, Rysen bows to him again, and then turns to make his way out of the ring with the Lord of House Kennex.

Again crowd rises to their feet with wild cheers and the mercies rush out just in case to check on those injured before falling back once more. With a curt nod, the Hart's Sergeant of Arms, returns to the sands to the call, "Lords and Ladies, gentles all, Lady Katya Grimhall and Lord Marzio Mazetti are called to the sands! May the fight with honour and heart. Sir, my lady, present yer arms and at yer leisure," he says with a sharp bowing to each before leaving them to their match.

Willow has left the ringside table.

Rosalind has left the ringside table.

Connal, a Northern Wolfhound leaves, following Rosalind.

Baltus rises to his feet, his breathing fast and shallow and bows to those at the table. "Apologies, I must step away for a moment. It's been quite some time since I have been around such a crowd and need a few moments.

Lisebet cheers for both fighters in the second match, content to do so as things come to a conclusion. "Well fought!" she calls out. She looks over at Katya and inclines her head as the other's name is called to the ring. A hand raies to the departing Rosalind in a friendly manner but Lisebet's attention returns to the fighters. She leans a bit over towards Olivia and chuckles softly, reaching a hand to her Sister-by-marriage, to pat her shoulder gently.

Jaerith reaches out and sets his hand down on the back of Korka's. "Is that your way of saying I should put my pants back on?" He looks up to Elrych as well. "How do you spell that?"

Baltus has left the ringside table.

When she hears her name there is a bit of a start, but then Katya just starts to get to her feet, pausing only long enough to down the contents of her wine glass. "Well...yes..." She trails off before starting in the direction of the sand, pulling out her sword as she goes.

Katya wields Sorrow, a diamondplate sword.

Evander applauds for the two fighters, his keen gaze following Aethan as he departs from the ring to make sure he's well. "Have you identified an opponent yet, Lady Zoey?" he asks, as he straightens from his murmured conversation with Tesha.

Marzio glances up as Katya rises and heads in toward the sands, a smile about his features as he watches her. Looking toward Olivia, he gestures with a thumb toward where the Grimhall woman walks and he says with a laugh, "You are about to get your vengeance when she kicks my ass out there." With that, he stands and follows Katya into the sands, pulling his trident from his back as he goes.

Aethan is about to reach the table when he hears Korka's words -- some of them, anyway -- and they do give him brief pause. "How much silver did I lose you?" he asks, in a deadpan that is really very dead indeed. Not quite rigor mortis yet, but it's getting there. "Aethan Kennex," he says, tipping his head toward one of the empty chairs with a questioning look to her, and then Jaerith, since he's also sitting there.

A fight has broken out here. Use @spectate_combat to watch, or +fight to join.

Sydney cranes her head back to the sands, drifting her focus over to the next combatants called, sparing a glance at the blade that slips its sheathe. She sighs ruefully, "...Would that I put any bother into weaponry. They're lovely to look at." She can't keep the admiration out of her voice.


Elrych looks Jaerith, "E-L-R-Y-C-H... unless you mean my last name. That's the real earfull." He chuckles taking a sip from his cup yet again. At least he can take a joke. "It was a pleasure meating you both. Perhaps I'll run into you again some time." He then moves on from the area the two occupy and moves along the outside of the sands to get a closer look at the new fight.


"Not yet," Zoey answers Evander. "There's still time. When there's a gap, I'll make a call."

Reese orders a refill on her cider. The Princes looks to the ring as if anticipating the next fight. She seems just slightly typsy.

Tesha straightens when Evander speaks with Zoey and there's a smile given to the others at the table after their quiet chatting. She then looks to see who is up next in the sands.

Rysen gratefully accepts a fresh glass of whiskey from Lygeia, before making his way over to stand near Olivia. "How are you feeling?" he asks, before turning to watch Katya and Marzio begin to spar.

Olivia smiles up at Rysen, "Hard to complain. The Lord Marzio was quite kind not to smash my face in."

Once on the sand Katya adjusts the grip of her sword, glancing around at the crowd itself for a moment before she settles into a ready stance. The sword is lifted, a small salute offered with it before she moves towards Marzio to take a swing at him, testing his defenses at first before managing to get past them for a small strike.

Once they reach the sands, Marzio shifts to hold his heavy trident in both hands, staring between the tines at the woman opposite him. His feet shift in the sand, perhaps to get a feel for the way the ground will move beneath him once combat is joined. Once Katya seems ready Marzio begins to circle slowly, keeping his eyes on her until she should attack. Once she does, he does his best to parry and dodge. He takes hits. It is clear that Katya is faster than him, her blade banging against his armor.

Jaerith kicks out the empty chair for Aethan. "Please, my lord of Stormward. A sailor of the open seas and a sailor of the rivers can sit together at one table without too much fighting." He glances around, then adds, "Though I wouldn't say so in front of Lord Domonico."

Rysen glances back at Olivia, and laughs softly. "And you were quite kind not to resort to poison or acid."

Tea, sparring, these things would ordinarily be two fine subjects that blend very nicely together, and Bhandn would have very much preferred to not be pulled away from either. It's the dreaded messenger who brings him something to read that actually has the stool-bound man sigh and answer it promptly, crumpling up the paper in a fist before getting to his feet, hurriedly downing the rest of cup #2, leave a gratuity in addition to cost, and hurry out without a glance behind him.

Waldemai dips his mug into his pail of ale and watches the fight.

Baltus has joined the raised seating.

Olivia laughs at Rysen, "Well I did not want to spoil someones week or year."

Bhandn has left the bar.

Entering the arena once more, Baltus quickly makes his way to the raised seating quietly watching the fight as his eyes drift over the assembled guests.

Lisebet is overheard praising Valencia: always a gracious hostess

Aethan takes the seat with a brief flash of a smile, as well as a little huff of amusement at the words that is almost a laugh. Laugh-adjacent, at least. "I wouldn't, either," he admits as he leans back, reaching to rub his side with a little wince. It's the only indication he gives that he didn't really come out very well. "I've had enough fighting for one night, in any case, so I'll be glad for some peace."

Valencia is overheard praising Lisebet: Always a lovely addition to a party.

As they face off against one another, Marzio seems to be impressed with the way that Katya wields her blade. He does what he can to block and dodge, but it is clear that the Grimhall woman is scoring more hits than he would like. Still, he jabs out with his trident, aiming to score hits where he can.

Lisebet smiles at the banter between Olivia and Rysen, settled at her seat, as she watches the fight continue. She's seated decorously, but relaxed, a friendly smile on her face for those who come near.

Faster she might be, but it's clear that when Marzio actually lands a hit on her it has an affect. It slows Katya down when she's caught by that trident, but she's not entirely stopped. She continues to try and move beneath his defenses, aiming at the weak spots in his armor, or trying to actually find any of them.

There's a laugh from Berto, and a big, earnest grin--the sort that pinches his eyes nearly closed, all delighted cheer. "Not a worry, Highness, not a jot or tittle of concern. You, of course, are Reese Grayson."

Zoey only hears about half of what Aethen says. "Are you leaving us?"

Berto is overheard praising Valencia: Our gracious hostess!

Berto is overheard praising Olivia: The brave challenger!

"Oh?" says Rysen, trying not to smile at Olivia. "Turning over a new leaf are we? I noticed you also refrained from biting. I think Duchess Lisebet is a very good influence on you." As the spar gets fully under way, Rysen becomes absorbed in watching the dance of the trident and sword. He tries to take a drink of whiskey, but accidentally pours some on himself when his hand trembles slightly. He frowns a little, but stubbornly uses both hands to hold his glass and manages to get a good gulp of spirits.

Waldemai cheers. "Well fought! What a match!"

Berto is overheard praising Aethan: A fine showing!

Berto is overheard praising Rysen: For his glory and my coin purse!

Zoey is overheard praising Valencia: A wonderful event!

Reese is overheard praising Rysen: Well fought!

Reese is overheard praising Aethan: Well fought!

Elrych is overheard praising Valencia: A great host and good drink.

Rysen is overheard praising Valencia: There's no more glorious arena than that of the Golden Hart!

Rysen is overheard praising Aethan: A strong and honorable warrior.

Tesha straightens, but she seems delighted by the talk, "I am afraid that I will need to get heading back home for the evening. It was lovely to meet new faces and see old ones as well." she smiles to the table. Then there's a moment she whispers something to Zoey before she waits for an answer on that.

Olivia tilts her head at Rysen, "If you want some bites I can allow that."

Tesha is overheard praising Valencia: A wonderful hostess!

As she continues to find breaks in his defense, Katya grows bolder, less careful about her own defenses. She keeps striking at Marzio, attempting to land the final blow. And then...attempting it again, possibly in hopes of bringing this fight to an end faster.

Baltus is overheard praising Valencia: A wonderful hostess and an unrivaled Arena

Evander half stands from his seat. "It was a pleasure to meet you, Lady Tesha," he murmurs.

Marzio continues to back and twist, grunting as Katya finds those gaps in his armor. "You are doing very well," he growls out to her as he presses in on her at one point, attempting to drive her from her feet with a sweep of his trident.

Zoey responds by standing up and nodding toward the exit.

Tesha rises and then gives a smile to Evander, "I'll see you soon I should hope." she tells him. Then she's heading out with Zoey to speak.

2 Laurent trained guards, Cupcake, a cookie girl, Truffle, an energetic mountain puppy arrive, following Mabelle.

Zoey has left the ringside table.

Cora, the optimistic telmarine, Zoey leave, following Tesha.

"I think I still have scars from the last time," replies Rysen grinning at Olivia. He takes another drink of whiskey and turns to watch the match continue. "It is a very close match," he says softly.

Amund makes his way into spectator areas of the arena, offering a bow towards Tesha in passing as he makes his way closer to the actual fighting area.


Elrych wanders back towards the main entrance, cup in hand, interested in checking out the rest of the Golden heart and maybe returning for another match in a little bit.


"Y..." Katya is going to answer, she really is. But she gets hit instead, and that reminds her that she's trying to not get knocked down, so she refocuses on the fight itself. She darts in, trying to get a solid hit or two on Marzio before he gets in another hit on her, concentration clear on her face.

There is a hit that slips through his defenses and Marzio finds himself winded. He backs quickly, giving ground as he swipes with his trident in an effort to keep Katya at bay long enough to regain his breath. Forcing his lungs to take in oxygen to keep him moving, he presses back in, jabbing at Katya in an effort to finish the fight.

Sydney leans forward as both fighters begin to appear on the ropes, her interest obvious.

Sweat and blood not really being her venue, but supporting friends is and so Mabelle finds herself wandering lost into the Arena. She spots some familiar faces and a lot of unfamiliar faces and opts the safest line of action is to step to the bar.

"I very much doubt that," Lisebet says with a chuckle, "I am any sort of influence, good or otherwise. Lady Olivia is a force unto herself." She smiles, a genuine expression, and otherwise watches quietly.

Valencia offers Mabelle a bright smile as she arrives, allowing the lady a chance to find her party and join them as the fight in the ring continues on. The cheering does not fade, if anything it gets louder as the combatants doggedly fight on. A little smile is offered and she takes a sip as she nods to see that more bottles are brought to the tables.

Waldemai has no bottles. He has his bucket. He dips another mug of ale from it.

Aethan watches the fight with interest, nodding or shaking his head here or there, before he pushes himself to his feet. "Sorry about your silver," he says as he inclines his head to Korka, though there's a slight smile that may indicate he's joking. Jaerith, too, gets a nod, as he adds, "My lord, good night." With that, he turns and starts toward the exit, waving to Evander and Rysen as he goes, as well as Valencia.

Aethan has left the corner table.

William, a taciturn quartermaster leaves, following Aethan.

Evander nods towards Aethan as he departs, turning back towards the fight at hand a short time later.

Marzio checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 14, rolling 36 higher.

Marzio remains capable of fighting.

Marzio checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 23, rolling 39 higher.

Marzio remains capable of fighting.

Katya checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 75, rolling 37 lower.

Katya checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 40, rolling 21 higher.

Katya remains alive, but close to death.

Katya is incapacitated and falls unconscious.

Mabelle wiggles her fingers to Valencia and excuses herself a moment as she has forgotten something.

2 Laurent trained guards, Cupcake, a cookie girl, Truffle, an energetic mountain puppy leave, following Mabelle.

Reese is overheard praising Korka: Well fought!

Reese is overheard praising Marzio: Well fought!

Reese is perched at one of the tables and watching the fight with wide eyed interest. She seems to be really into such and even fallen otherwise quiet for a bit.

Lisebet is overheard praising Marzio: Well fought!

Lisebet is overheard praising Katya: well fought!

Marzio continues to take hit after hit and it is clear that he is beginning to tire as he moves through the sands in a very close fight with Katya. He is breathing hard and sweat covers his brow as he jabs out with his trident at the woman who has been dancing out of his reach for most of the fight. There are two very close hits where he takes heavy hits and feels his head go light for a moment, but finally in one heavy jab of his trident he catches Katya at just the right angle with a very solid hit.

Rysen smiles warmly at Lisebet, and nods in agreement. "You'll hear no argument from me on that account, Duchess Lisebet - save that you are undoubtedly a positive influence on any who happen to find themselves in your presence. I can't remember the last time you endangered my life, and I have the fondest memories of your parties, dancing and singing." Noticing Aethan's wave, Rysen returns it, and says to Olivia and Lisebet. "Thank you both for such good company. I'm going to head back to the Black Hall and soak in some warm water for a long time." He bows, and waves to Reese, before making his way up to Valencia. "Thank you again for hosting the spars, Your Highness." He smiles, and makes his way towards the exit of the Hart.

Reese is overheard praising Katya: Well fought!

Everything was going so good. Until it wasn't. When the final blow comes in she falls, but Katya manages to keep her sword in her hand, barely. There is a partially stunned expression on her face, but then she is starting to get to her feet, "Well fought, Lord Marzio."

"My pleasure, my lord," Valencia replies to Rysen in kind. It is so lovely to see you here. I do hope you return soon," she invites with a bright smile and warm incline of head.

Waldemai climbs down from the rafters with surprising dexterity for a guy who's been drinking ale all night. He points to Sydney. "Be sure to put your silver on her," he calls out to his betting buddies, and adds from Lizette, "Have a bucket of cold water ready to throw over me."

Waldemai has left the upper rafters.

Waldemai has joined the ring of valor.

Jaerith pushes himself to his feet and walks down so he can watch the fight as it comes to a close. He offers a wave to the Admiral as the Kennex heads out, then looks back to the fighting floor. "It's almost enought to make one all excited to swing a sword and bleed in the dust."

Lygeia, a calligrapher and alchemist leaves, following Rysen.

Cheers erupt from the ringside tables to the rafters up high as the fighters step from the ring. A curt nod is issued by the Hart's Sergeant of Arms who returns to the call the next match. "Lords and Ladies, gentles all, Mistress Sydney and Master Waldemai Isenhu are called to the sands for a show of natural skill! May they fight with honour and heart. Sir, madame, at yer leisure," he says with a slight grin, apparently a fan of the sweet science himself after a light bow to each before leaving them to their match.

Marzio nods his head and grunts out, "Well fought indeed. I am impressed with how you handle that blade." Slipping his trident over his shoulder he gestures back toward the ringside and then heads off to the side along with Katya.

Appears baffled at being gestured to by Waldemai, looking somewhat taken aback. "...What, you're gonna take me up on it? I mean... well. Uh. Alright, then." She makes her way from the spectating area and over to the sands. On the way over, the sturdily built commoner shifts her leather jacket onto one arm, and proceeds to remove all of her typically protective leathers, leaving her in coverings that only provide the bare essential of modesty. She cracks her knuckles, and shifts her neck until it pops. "No steelsilk or any such, I hope."

Katya seems to be perfectly happy with vacating the sand, putting her sword up before she starts to dry off her slightly sweaty palms on her pants.

Waldemai shakes his head. "Nah, just a good-natured fistfight like we used to have down in Southport." He spits on his palms and puts up his dukes, although not any of the Malvici Dukes.

A fight has broken out here. Use @spectate_combat to watch, or +fight to join.

Lisebet gives Olivia a brief gentle hug and whispers something to her, before getting to her feet. She too moves over to Valencia to say, "Thank you for a good event, but alas, duty calls, your Highness." She then takes her leave, making her way off, retainers in tow.

Olivia hugs Lisebet as she goes to head out with a bright smile

The crowd hushes for this one, breaths held gently and Waldemai and Sydney take to the ring. But as soon as the bout begins, the place rises and the crowd begins to cheer. The boisterous calls and good cheer is infectious and with a little look around, Valencia cannot help but smile and cheer too, her decorum slowly slipping as each fight is met with thunderous applause.

Turning, Valencia offers Lisebet a warm nod. "Thank you for attending, my lady," she offers back with a big smile. To Baltus, a little grin. "It is one of my most favorite events in my Hart, my lord. All are welcome here. It is wonderful to see such excellent company and such magnificent skills, yes?"

Lisebet has left the ringside great table.

Ramona - A Guard in Ashford House Colours, Bigsby - A Thoughtful Looking Young Man in Nondescript Clothing leave, following Lisebet.

Baltus nods and returns Valencia's grin. "Aye, it is quite enjoyable to see such contests of skill."

As the pair of Marzio and Katya step off of the sands, Marzio lifts his hand in passing toward those that he knows seated at their tables and then begins to head for the exit with Lady Katya and then out of the Arena.

Marzio has left the ringside great table.

Katya has left the ringside great table.

Katya leaves, following Marzio.

Waldemai is known as a guy who can take a punch. Blacksmiths are used to getting knocked on the head with iron bars after all. Of course, laying a glove on his opponent is a tougher question. He is a lot shorter and having trouble reaching Sydney. "Should have thought of that," he grins.

Valencia smiles and nods to Marzio and Katya as the head out, her dark eyes dancing happily. "Thank you for attending," she offers with a happy bob of her head. "I hope we will see you both again soon." Turning back to Baltus she smiles once more. "When I first returned to Arx, I spent much time in the training centre watching the matches. They were so very exciting. I remember cheering so loud and being so very impressed," she explains, her dark gaze turning back to the ring. "To see such sportsmanship and camaraderie? Truly a magical thing. I'm grateful so many come to my Hart now to enjoy themselves. Whether it be at one of our events, or just to practice in the ring."

Evander rises from his seat, and moves over to join Olivia. "Lady Olivia," he greets her. "I suppose you heard Jan snuck back out to the water," he says, with a tiny smile, as if accepting of his sister's preference for the water over Arx. "I hope you two got a chance to catch up, at least."

Not waiting for Waldemai to get things started, the brawler weaves into the man's reach and immediately throws a swift jab. She, too, seems to be sporting some of the tell-tale signs of some time at a forge, but nothing that matches her senior. She abuses her reach and mobility, dodging about and taking a few glancing blows before returning them back in kind, cracking at Waldemai's torso and swiftly retreating. Still, she doesn't escape entirely unscathed. She spits, her smile wide. "Not bad, old-timer."

Reese as her cider and refills it again. The princess is seemingly slightly tipsy and still alright.

Waldemai is being smote heel and thigh (plus more than a few jabs to the jaw). He gets in a couple shots, too, but none of those big haymakers (driven by blacksmithing muscles) lands. "We're putting on a show," he jokes to his opponent. "I don't know about you, but I've seen enough of 'em to know how it's done."

Olivia leans over as Evander sits, "I did hear she did, sad, but who could blame her. That is where her heart is. BUT.... how are you Lord Evander?"

A gently gaze slips to Reese, the little vixen simply seems to be taking careful care. Seeing that the Princess of Grayson is well, Valencia turns back to smile Baltus' way. "Master Missere Waldemai is very good as is the lady, yes?" she nods to the ring and takes another sip. "Such skill, yes?"

Sydney closes in and cracks Waldemai one in the face, but gets a rather immediate reprisal for her troubles. The two dance around one another, jabbing and dodging, feeling one another out. "Oh, it's a show. Just don't get too comfortable, eh?" Sydney winks, then bulls forward, leaning into her strikes a little harder.

Brannen has left the ringside table.

Waldemai checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 3, rolling 67 higher.

Waldemai remains capable of fighting.

Korka returns from what was likely the bank as she heads over to Berto, untying a small purse at her waist to hand over to him, "A woman of my word, a bet is a bet," she tells him, handing it over.

Waldemai is beginning to stagger a little. "Have that water standing by," he tells the ring-side healers. "When you drag me out, make sure my hammer is still stuck in my belt."

Evander gives a tiny smile. "Indeed, it is," he agrees with Olivia. "I'm... well," he answers, with ease. "And yourself? The last time we talked you were somewhat under the weather," he notes, carefully.

Olivia smiles wamrly, "Oh I am quite fantastic! Preparing for a trip, attempting to fund a caravel... I need find someone who knows how to build one."

A flurry of strikes between the two combatants sees the two of them looking quite a bit more beaten as the battle takes a rather more vicious series of exchanges. Sydney lands a harsh one-two combo on the man's jaw, but he stays upright and returns it in kind, though she's looking like she's managed to escape the worst of it. Her brow is furrowed, fully concentrated.

Waldemai checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 9, rolling 80 higher.

Waldemai remains capable of fighting.

Waldemai checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 10, rolling 32 higher.

Waldemai remains capable of fighting.

Berto grins at Korka with a short wink and a nod, reaching out to take the coins without counting them. "Luck's on my side, it seems. Only seems kind of me to offer you a drink with your money, how I see it. Berto Tiazza, at your service."

The Mercies nod, equally taken but the match, one so overwhelmed she covers her face with a squeak at Sydney's fierce attack. The more senior of the three gives her a waning look and then laughs clearly amused.

Valencia's attention is rapt, she sits on the edge of her seat, her glass forgotten, her large dark eyes locked on the fighters below.

"Korka Glynn," The dark haired woman who just paid her debts replies with a nod of her head, "And I never turn down a drink, even if my own silver is paying for it. Did you know either competitor or was it truly luck?"

Evander glances towards the ring, but mostly, he's regarding Olivia with interest. "A trip? But where would go that requires a caravel, my lady?" After a moment, he frowns. "Well. You might talk with Lord Wash. I believe he's working on something."

Waldemai is swinging a little more wildly now. His only chance is to land The Big One. Then again, he didn't bet on himself so who cares if he loses. "I'll need a shot of whiskey, too," he tells the healers when he is punched into their general direction.

Reese has left the ringside table.

1 Grayson House Guards, Peaches, a lovely white war filly with a peach saddle, Deliverance, an albino falcon, Stormy, a silvery gray hunting hound, Rascal, a hyper terrier, Rosalie, a lady in waiting leave, following Reese.

Jaerith returns to where he's been sitting with Korka. "You don't often see two people battering one another with bare hands, and I can see why. It's kind of depressing." Then he looks over and sees Korka's gone, gives a slight shrug and turns to make the exact same observation to whoever is sitting next to him now. "You don't often see two people battering one another with bare hands. Well, that's not true. Sailors get bored on the rivers. But since there's always a settlement a day or two a day they don't have to get into weird fucking like open water sailors do and instead just bare-handed brawl on deck."

"You're pretty good at stayin' upright, I'll give you that!" Sydney's looking rather more bruised than before, but is keeping her composure, prodding and turning away the man's wild attacks with bats of her hands, her form practiced and precise.

Waldemai checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 31, rolling 29 higher.

Waldemai remains capable of fighting.

Waldemai checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 42, rolling 37 higher.

Waldemai remains capable of fighting.

Waldemai checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 45, rolling 2 lower.

Waldemai checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 16, rolling 56 higher. Waldemai rolled a critical!

Waldemai remains alive, but close to death.

Waldemai is incapacitated and falls unconscious.

Waldemai is hit in the face and does the classic move. He straightens straight up, spins on his heel, eyes glassy, and pitches forward onto his face.

1 Grayson House Guards, Peaches, a lovely white war filly with a peach saddle, Deliverance, an albino falcon, Stormy, a silvery gray hunting hound, Rascal, a hyper terrier, Rosalie, a lady in waiting arrive, following Reese.

Sydney thrusts a fist briefly into the air and flashes a grin to the audience - then she stoops, and uses her hand a bit more gently. "Oi, old timer. Hell of a fight, but we gotta be clearin' the ring."

A communal gasp rises as the master smith falls into the sand. There is a beat and then the crowd goes wild! The room rumbles with chants for both fighters rising to the roof and shaking the heave beamed timbers of the Hart's arena.

Rising up, Valencia joins the crowd to call out her approval, "BRAVO!!! Wonderful fight!"

"I've seen the Lord Crovane in the ring, once or twice. And, well, never pass a chance to let a lovely woman give me her money." Berto grins with a twinkle in his eye and a nod toward Jaerith as the man approaches the bar. "I wouldn't call it depressing. But I prefer to watch, speaking only to myself of course." He turns toward the sands and gives a cheer, raising his glass toward Sydney.

Waldemai isn't helped much by a hand, but a bucket of water in the face and a rousing whiskey do the job. "You need a stronger punch, but you're plenty fast. Next time I'll put some silver on you," he tells Sydney. "Good fight."

Waldemai has left the ring of valor.

Waldemai has joined the upper rafters.

Sydney chuckling wryly, Sydney accepts the criticism, and nods. "I'll take that to heart." She departs the ring, slipping back into her leathers as she does, wiping some blood from her nose as she goes. "Owe ya one. Was spoilin' for a fair fightfight."

Zoey has joined the ringside table.

Jaerith tilts his head toward Syndey. "Now there's a hell of a woman. I wonder if she sails." He orders himself up a replacement drink and raises it to Berto in greeting.

Zoey wields Dawn's Light, an alaricite bow.

Evander straightens as Zoey returns, giving a look that is briefly curious, but he doesn't ask as she gets her bow out.

Sydney is overheard praising Waldemai.

Waldemai hoists his mug, freshly refilled, toward Sydney. "I'll put you to work in the forge. That'll put some muscle on you."

Zoey climbs up on a table and holds her alaricite bow over her head. "Are there any archers in this room with the confidence to challenge me?" She looks around the room. "So confident am I in my skills that not only will I offer 1000 silver to anyone who bests me, but-" she lowers her bow in front of her, holding it parallel to the floor, "I will even let you borrow my favorite bow and use it against me." She grins. "Any takers?"

Korka lets out a loud whistle for Sydney as Waldemai hit the ground, then comments to Berto, "I try to never rely on luck, but every so often the thrill of the fight seduces me and that axe was very sparkly," she laughs, a very light, amused sound. "But if you are not a fighter, Master Berto, what is it that you excel in?"

Zoey puts a white gold Kennex signet ring set with an amethyst ship in a monogrammed black calfskin satchel with silk lining.

Zoey puts a wavetossed iridescite and dawnstone wedding band in a monogrammed black calfskin satchel with silk lining.

The crowds calm and seem to rumble in anticipation. More than a few eyes move to watch Zoe as she stands and takes out her bow. Valenica, too, turns from her conversation with Baltus and looks to the Lady of Kennex. When she climbs on the table, the little vixen smiles. The crowd cheers as she makes her challenge. Gaze drifting to the room, Valencia cants her head softly as she waits to see who will answer the call.

Zoey puts a delicate compass rose locket of iridescite in a monogrammed black calfskin satchel with silk lining.

Zoey gets a white gold Kennex signet ring set with an amethyst ship from a monogrammed black calfskin satchel with silk lining.

Zoey gets a delicate compass rose locket of iridescite from a monogrammed black calfskin satchel with silk lining.

Zoey gets a wavetossed iridescite and dawnstone wedding band from a monogrammed black calfskin satchel with silk lining.

Sydney gets a drink for herself, and casts a grin, once she's back in a proper state of dress. "Worked a forge for a handful of seasons. Swingin' a hammer's what got me started on throwing punches - don't get me wrong, I'm rubbish at it, yet." She takes a long pull of her own drink, "If I'm being honest, I'd love to get back to it, one of these days. When I've got the coin to afford payin' those that need paying, maybe I'll pick the hammer back up."

The Hart's Sergeant of Arms calls out with as an amused grin, "The Lady of Kennex has leveled a very fine challenge. Who will rise?" she bellows with a gruff gravely growl as he scans the crowd for takers.

1 Grayson House Guards, Peaches, a lovely white war filly with a peach saddle, Deliverance, an albino falcon, Stormy, a silvery gray hunting hound, Rascal, a hyper terrier, Rosalie, a lady in waiting arrive, following Reese.

Rising from his seat, Baltus chuckles to himself. "Don't think I've touched a bow since I learned as a young man but it sounds like a wonderful challenge, count me in."

"Oh, I've been in a scrap or two. Something of a wild youth, if I'm speaking the unvarnished truth." Berto gives a beaming smile, and finishes his own drink in a single pull. "These days, I'm a simple brewer and distiller. Proprietor of Grenaldo and Tiazza's, making my living. And doing a bit of..." he waves a meaty hand airily. "This, that. Buy, sell, and trade." He smiles again, although he does seem a little distracted by Sydney's comments, eyes drifting over toward her and back at Korka. "And what's it that keeps you busy, Korka Glynn?" He looks over toward Jaerith with a nod.

Evander murmurs quietly to Olivia, though his head lifts as Lady Zoey issues her challenge, particularly with the offer for her opponent to use a bow. He applauds supportively.

Valencia rises with a slight smile, her dark eyes dancing playfully. "I haven't a chance, but if luck loves me, I shall win some silver for my Hart," she smiles turning to those gathered. "Any one else willing to accept challenge?" she asks cheerfully as the Hart's staff rush to prepare the ring. Targets are set out and a fine mesh begins to rise about the ring.

Amund regards Zoey after that challenge, nodding slowly as he studies her. "I'll look forward to watching your archery challenge, my Lady. Godspeed. Though it seems you have a few contenders. This will be interesting!"

Baltus has left the raised seating.

Baltus has joined the ring of valor.

Zoey has left the ringside table.

Zoey has joined the ring of valor.

Zoey gets Intricately forged ancient steel recurve bow from a monogrammed black calfskin satchel with silk lining.

Zoey wields Intricately forged ancient steel recurve bow.

Baltus wields Dawn's Light, an alaricite bow.

"Oh, I'm an Inquisitor, so you know," Korka says casually, as if this isn't usually a conversation killer, "Nothing in particular. A little bit of everything. Like meeting new people, sitting here drinking while watching people beat each other up for fun. Their fun, not mine. I'm all business," she gives Berto a lazy smile, leaning an arm over the back of her chair. "Brewing sounds like an interesting business. How did you get into it?"

Zoey checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 15, rolling 30 higher.

Jaerith checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 15, rolling 27 higher.

Waldemai pulls his legs up in the rafters. No one wants a wild shot in the tuchas.

Zoey takes her first shot with the fluid grace of one of the greeting hunting cats, and it finds its mark as though it moved on a track.

Baltus checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 15, rolling 17 higher.

Evander catches the fight in question carefully, focusing mostly on Zoey, only because she's familiar to him, but the others, too, get an interested look as they take their shots.

drawing back the bowstring somewhat shakily, Baltus releases the arrow which promptly slams into the target visibly off center.

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 15, rolling 26 higher.

Jaerith checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 15, rolling 17 higher.

Jaerith checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 15, rolling 30 higher.

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 15, rolling 95 higher. Reese rolled a critical!

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 15, rolling 20 higher.

Baltus checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 15, rolling 8 higher.

Baltus checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 15, rolling 13 higher.

"Well, in the interests of full confession, I gave a few

Zoey checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 15, rolling 40 higher.

Sydney scoots back from the bar after finishing her drink. With another respectful nod toward Waldemai, she takes her leave.

Zoey checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 15, rolling 40 higher.

Two more arrows follow the first as Baltus arms begin to shake more with each draw but the arrows still manage to find their targets

Zoey checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 38 higher.

Zoey checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 39 higher.

Zoey checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 38 higher.

Baltus checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 3 lower.

Baltus checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 5 lower.

Baltus checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 3 lower.

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 11 higher.

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 17 higher.

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 20 higher.

Zoey lets her next three arrows go with the same ease as the first three.

Jaerith draws and looses arrow after arrow, demonstrating solid, but unremarkable, prowess with his bow. He sits back and nods at Zoey's superlative performance, though his jaw near drops when Reese goes from being just about as average as him to planting an arrow directly through the shaft of an arrow already in the target and right out the back. "Shit."

Jaerith checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 15 higher.

Jaerith checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 11 higher.

Jaerith checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 8 higher.

Attempting three more shots, Baltus simply starts laughing as he fails to even pull the string back all the way and the arrows all fall short. "About how I expected my skill with a bow to go."

Reese draw her pink steel bow. She hits the target all six times, but one arrow is right in the center and Reese seems pleased by that. She looks over to Jaerith, giving him a smile.

Waldemai hides as Baltus' shots go astray.

"Well, in the interests of full /confession/," Berto places a slight stress on the word,watching Sydney on her way out before turning his attention back toward Korka, "I gave a few thoughts on how the dockside swill where I grew up could taste less like piss. Got me a bit involved, picked up a bit more here, a bit more there. Can't be said how shocked I was to learn that Southern Thunder was already known in Arx before I arrived."

Zoey smiles kindly at Baltus and says something to him in a low voice.

Jaerith waves to Korka. "Inquisitor Glynn! I dedicate this performance to you! Because it, like myself, is just slightly above average!" He turns and fires off another volley of arrows.

Zoey checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 33 higher.

Zoey checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 83 higher. Zoey rolled a critical!

Zoey checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 19 higher.

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 5 higher.

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 16 higher.

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 20 higher.

Jaerith checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 73 higher. Jaerith rolled a critical!

Jaerith checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 13 higher.

Jaerith checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 15 higher.

Shaking his head but still with a wide smile, Baltus lowers the bow rather than fire. "I think this is where I bow out, it was quite enjoyable but I think it quite obvious I am out of my league here. Thank you all." Stepping back, he continues to watch the rest of the contest from the side of the ring.

Amund halts a waitress, murmuring a few requests: namely for parchment, quill and ink. He writes down some notes as he watches the tournament, rubbing his jaw. "It is rather hard to predict which side an archer will favor before loosing."

Evander is overheard praising Zoey.

Evander is overheard praising Reese.

Evander is overheard praising Jaerith.

Evander is overheard praising Baltus.

Zoey takes her last three shots. First a bullseye, then a bullseye that splits the first down the middle (at which she grimaces for the ruined arrow), and then one just to the left of the first two, nestled like am chick under its mother's wing.

Reese is overheard praising Zoey: Amazing shot!

"I am always interested in confessions, full or otherwise," Korka reaches up to run slender fingers through her hair, pushing the ebon strands back and away from her forehead, "I can't say enough about Southern Thunder. Mostly because I pass out before I properly have a chance to formulate how much it means to me," As Jaerith calls out she looks his way, eyebrows rising and emerald eyes sparkling as he seems to have his best round yet, "I'm glad to see you finally hit a target you were aiming for, Lord Jaerith. Amazing what happens when one stands still."

Reese fires off her arrows again. She does alright, but not nearly as good as Zoey. She gives Zoey a smile. "That was totally amazing." The Princess says.

"A blessing and a curse, the knowing that Thunder will be known as my life's work. Nothing else I can concieve of is likely to have the same effect... but, I suppose, that's the cost of success." Berto raises his cup toward the archers. "Splendedly done!"

The crowd rises to their feet to cheer the archers below. The pitch rising as some rather remarkable shots are taken. In the end, however, it is Lady Kennex that rises and shows her skill, her win met with thunderous applause, as are all the participants.

Zoey puts Intricately forged ancient steel recurve bow in a monogrammed black calfskin satchel with silk lining.

Erin, Crimson Blades Private, Jin, Cranky Crimson Blades Sergeant, Gale, The Mighty Pupper arrive, following Violet.

Valencia is overheard praising Zoey: A fine archer and gracious lady!

Valencia is overheard praising Reese: Her talents never fail to impress.

Reese is overheard praising Valencia: And amazing host!

"Never you worry, Inquisitor," calls out Jaerith in response to Korka's barb. "Once loosed my arrow always finds its mark!" He turns and fires off an arrow which lands about three rings outside of the bullseye. "Still hit the target! Don't read too much into how that works metaphorically!"

Valencia is overheard praising Jaerith: Talented with a bow and rather dashing.

Zoey takes a bow in front of the audience before leaving the ring. "And 1000 silver to the Golden Hart in gratitude for hosting this wonderful event!"

Zoey has left the ring of valor.

Zoey has joined the ringside table.

Evander pushes to his feet, applauding Zoey and the other contestants. "Well done, Lady Zoey. Well done, everyone."

Valencia is overheard praising Baltus: Charming and gracious upon the field. A lovely combination

Bowing to the others as well as the audience, Baltus turns to Zoey, "A fantastic contest and a great finish. Thank you for allowing me to join you all." Making a slow exit from the ring, he slowly massages his arms which now feel in the area somewhere between noodles and lead before taking a seat once more.

Violet seems to have arrived when archery is happening or just finishing up. A few familiar faces in the crowd and she smiles upon spotting Reese, waving at her as she comes to lean against the ring. "Did I miss all the fun?" She asks generally of those watching.

Baltus has left the ring of valor.

Baltus has joined the bar.

Korka turns her emerald gaze back to Berto in surprise, "You're the one who created it? I don't know why I'm surprised, I also don't know who created this mead," she raises her mug and finishes off what's inside, "But it's rare that one meets someone who is so exalted one night and then cursed the next morning. Perhaps it's a good thing your name isn't that well known."

Valencia looks touched by the gift and she cannot help but give Zoey a warm hug. "Your kindness and generosity is as bold and bright as your talents with a bow," the little vixen offers sincerely. "Thank you so much. We will see this is used for good things," she beams and hugs her again in gratitude. "Thank you."

Reese has her bow still in her hands, but she isn't firing at anyone or anything. She then turns her focus to Violet, giving her a smile. "Baroness!" She says and then adds. "Na or rather we will make new fun. Lady Zoey just won an archery contest."

Graham watches the ranged matches going on from his seat taking occasional drinks from his mug. He claps at the end of the first round "Great shots one and all." The young Count says quite glad to sit back and watch the ranged matches.

Zoey returns the hug and smiles warmly.

"A good drink, a good wager, and a good companion, all likely to be regretted in the morning. But what else are mornings for?" Berto gives another grin, and raises his cup toward the winner. "Well done! Damned fine show!"

Violet turns to look at Zoey and grins, "Congratulations!" She says with obvious cheer. "Those lessons paid off then," And she looks around for a server. "Mead, please, so I can toast Lady Zoey yeah? And whatever she wants," A hand indicating the winner. Then she turns back to watche Reese with her own bow for a moment. "Keeping busy I see. Let's see if I'm as rusty as I feel, eh?" And she moves to join Reese in the arena after fetching her bow out.

"Just a hot spiced cider for me," Zoey tells the server.

Zoey has left the ringside table.

Zoey has joined the ring of valor.

Zoey wields Dawn's Light, an alaricite bow.

Still on his feet, Evander gives a brief smile as some of the participants seek to return to the ring. "I'm afraid I should be getting on. Thank you for your hospitality, Your Highness," is directed to Princess Valencia. "Good luck, Lady Zoey. Lady Olivia," he nods to each in turn.

Violet wields DarkFell.

Amund nods to Zoey, lifting a newly bought mug of ale to her. He leaves it at his table as he rises to his feet and starts to depart, leaving silver with the waitress to pay for the Kennex's next round, apparently.

Evander has left the ringside table.

2 Kennex corsairs, Jaq, a solemn looking assistant leave, following Evander.

Zoey gives a motion from her hand where she goes from holding her fingers over the center of her chest to holding out her hand as though she were tossing her heart to Evander as he leaves.

Olivia twiddles her drink a little as the last at her table heads out

"What else are nights for except to plan out your regrets for the next day?" Korka lifts her mug to Berto and goes to take a drink, but alas it is already finished. She purses her lips, twisting them to the side in disappointment, "I should take my own advice and stop before I regret things, but why start now?"

Jaerith steps back up to Korka and leans in to speak to her before he starts for the exit.

Violet bobs her head, still smiling, towards Zoey. Then adds to the server, "Make it mulled mead!" She calls out, her voice carrying easily. With ease she strings her bow and says, "I'm also willing to show how much work I still need with small blades." There's a chuckle and glance at Reese, then to Zoey's bow. A soft whistle as she looks it over, "That is quite pretty."

Baltus has left the bar.

"Thank you, Baroness," Zoey responds with a smile.

Baltus has joined the bar.

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 33 higher.

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 36 higher.

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 10 higher.

Violet checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 37 higher.

Violet checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 37 higher.

Violet checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 74 higher. Violet rolled a critical!

Zoey checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 12 higher.

Zoey checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 36 higher.

Zoey checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 20, rolling 33 higher.

Jaerith has left the corner table.

Zoey takes her first three shots as easily as pulling a needle through an embroidery hoop, raising an intrigued eyebrow at Violet's third shot.

Zoey puts Dawn's Light, an alaricite bow in a monogrammed black calfskin satchel with silk lining.

Violet rolls her shoulders and bobs her head at Zoey, "Violet is just fine, if you like," She says and then turns to bob her head at Reese. The first two shots appear to be warmups. Because the third splits the first arrow in two. She just shrugs at Zoey's glance and smiles. "I wasn't trying to split it."

Zoey gets Intricately forged ancient steel recurve bow from a monogrammed black calfskin satchel with silk lining.

Zoey wields Intricately forged ancient steel recurve bow.

"For myself, I've found I regret always what I haven't done above what I have. Ride the dice as long as luck lasts." Berto gives another one of those big grins, and a shrug. "So how does someone wind up in the Inquisition?"

"Feels like an awful waste of an arrow when that happens, doesn't it?" Zoey says to Violet.

Korka leans back in her chair and watches Jaerith go with just the hint of a smile, setting her empty mug down and intentionally misunderstanding Berto's question, "Usually they make terrible life decisions. But if you ever find yourself in need of taste testers, Inquisition work is thirty business." She stands up in one languid motion, smoothing down the silk of her dress and turning for the door, "Good night, everyone! And good luck to the competitors."

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 20 higher.

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 57 higher. Reese rolled a critical!

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 6 higher.

Violet wrinkles her nose and nods her head. "Indeed. It'd much rather get a solid grouping than split one," She says. "But it -is- a crowd pleasure." Another chuckle and then she is eyeing the bow Zoey pulls out next. Eyes going a little wide as she looks it over. She says somethings softly, smile returning, before settling in to fire again.

Korka has left the corner table.

still rubbing his arms gently, Baltus gets to his feet and makes his way to Valencia's side whispering to her softly before making his way out of the arena.

The crowd cheers as each archer takes their turn. The shots find their mark with remarkable ease. Valencia smiles fondly to see them all do so well. Glancing side, she shakes her head. "If I were only so talented. It makes me wonder how my cousin might do. She is a fine huntress," she nods to Baltus and leans gently aside to his whispered words.

Violet checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 44 higher.

Violet checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 14 higher.

Violet checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 33 higher.

Zoey checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 41 higher.

Zoey checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 42 higher.

Zoey checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 28 higher.

Zoey takes three more shots, seemingly even more easily than with the first bow. Afterward she whispers something to Violet.

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 4 higher.

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 9 higher.

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 25, rolling 9 higher.

Baltus has left the bar.

Violet's smile softens at something passed between her and Zoey. Then she turns back to take three more shots. The second of them far from her original grouping. It makes her wrinkler her nose around her smile.

Zoey checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 30, rolling 38 higher.

Zoey checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 30, rolling 27 higher.

Zoey checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 30, rolling 33 higher.

Violet checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 30, rolling 10 higher.

Violet checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 30, rolling 24 higher.

Reese managed to hit the target every time, just sometimes it was the outer edge of the target. She isn't as good as Violet or Zoey, but she is good enough for some situations. She could get a job on a archery unit, but she wouldn't win a tournament or win any fan at it. She is in that level. Still she seems to be having fun.

Violet checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 30, rolling 15 higher.

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 30, rolling 2 lower.

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 30, rolling 1 lower.

Reese checked dexterity + archery at difficulty 30, rolling 17 higher.

Zoey grins at hearing the final score. "Well played, your Highness," she says to Reese. She then turns to violet. and whispers something else with a grin.

As the targets become more difficult her groupings spread. But she still hits the target every time. Nodding in satisfaction to herself when down. Turning she offers Zoey a hand and then Reese, lips split into a grin, "Thank you both! I needed that. It's been too long." And look, her mulled mead is ready too! Whatever Zoey says makes her chuckle and duck her head. "I try. But you ran with it and it shows! The student shall outdo the teacher is what we all want, eh?" And she goes to pat the Kennex woman on the back as she heads to fetch up her waiting drink.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Violet before departing.

Waldemai climbs down from the rafters. The bruises from the fight are apparent on him, but he does not look injured or in pain. "Boy, I'm glad there were fights tonight, your highness," he tells Valencia. "It's been a while since I got out on the town like this." He staggers off in the direction of Southport Square.

Waldemai has left the upper rafters.

The crowd roars happily as the winner of the rounds is announced and a final cheer is offered all those who stepped upon the Hart's sands. Valencia rises with them and offers her own salute, raising her glass to one and all, her large dark eyes smiling. A gracious bow is offered to Waldemai as he departs and another smile is offered to those guest who linger a little longer. Warm embraces are offered to the ladies of the bow and she offers each her thanks before gently drifting off herself.

The Hart's arena is much quieter now, save for the staff who remain to see it reset and a handful of fighters and revelers who will remain likely till dawn.