Silas steps into the arena, wearing his suit of armor... suggesting he's likely up for fighting should any come in his direction. He takes note of the people already assembled, but waves in Valencia's direction first. She was the hostess, after all. "I heard there was going to be drinking and sparring here, and I happen to like both those things. Sometimes together."

Valencia moves through the crowd graciously welcoming and greeting all those as they arrive, her smile excited, dark eyes dancing with a nearly magicial light of their own. A little nod is offered to Waldemai, a regular to the fights, as he climbes into the rafters, and a bright smile and warm not is offered to Ian as he takes to the bar, leaning his cane against his let. The little raven haired princess nearly bounces as Luca is seen and she rushes over to jump up to give him a warm welcoming, and rather excited hug and light kiss upon the cheek, "You are here! I am so glad to see you. And you, Princess Reese. Welcome, welcome!" she smiles offering Reese a warm hug too. Dark eyes smile to Cristoph as he arrives and she offers a warm incling of heand, "My lord," she beam and then it is Silas who is welcomed in turn. "Oh, it has been far too long. Welcome, my lord. I am so very glad to see you."

Cristoph strolls in, looking ready to join in one of the rounds tonight himself. But first, he's going to get a a round of ale to start. His eyes sweep around the room, taking in the others as they arrive. When Valencia greets him, he lifts his glass to give her a wave with it before taking a healthy swallow and settling in.

Ian orders a whiskey and settles in to nurse it while he watches whatever fighting should unfold.

Waldemai waves to the servers. "Ale, and plenty of it." It's getting hot in the forge. Got to replace those elctrolytes.

Luca arrived with the well-armed Reese dressed as he always seems prone to. Simple flowing shirt into simple calfskin pants, with blade in duelist stays low on his left hip. The shirt tonight is silk and actually clean and not worn for once, but otherwise the Lazy prince is as laid back as ever when it comes to showing his station. Even as he's following his warrior-wife in, he's quipping at her back. "Bow and everything, love. Planning to make sure I'm on my toes by firing a volley now and then into the middle of any spars I get talked into?" He's looking about the familiar arena he's both fought in and hosted fights at, obviously looking about for his cousin and any other familiar faces, of which he expects many. The fighters of the city aren't so numerous that Luca, however lazy he's been of late, doesn't keep track of most all of them. He's giving a rich, delighted laugh at Val's sudden pounce, hugging her up and kissing her on the cheek with a wry. "I miss too much of late I've been told. Wanted to get in a bit of fun before we're off to dramatic battle again." After which, moving off to let her greet others, he's pulling a black volcanic glass hip flask from somewhere and toasting Ian, Silas, Cristoph, Waldemai, and anyone else he comes to recognize as he and Ribbons find their seat.

Reese returns Valencia's hug, wrapping her arms briefly around the woman. She peeks over the hall, having smiles for all gathered here. "Well, I figure that I need to put your nimble to the test, Luca. I hope that you will fight me. I just started with the bow. I wan to have some range, just in case. One never knows." She murmurs.

The Hart's staff move too and fro, quickly offering a warm welcome and seeing to the drinks of the many guests as they arrive. The sands are raked smooth and there is a buzz in the air the sings of excitement and a night where anything can happen. A bright flash of smile is offered to Reese and then Luca again as they move off to find a seat, and Valencia could not look happier, though she takes a deep breath to find a little bit of composure lest her excitment bubble over. Dark eyes turn to the new face that arrives and she offers a sweet and warm smile Porter's way. "How do you? Welcome to my Hart. Please come in and enjoy the night. Will you be sparring this evening, she asks with all little cant of head.

Silas grins back at Luca and Reese, once he spots them. He hums contemplatively and looks down at his clunky armor. "Not many in the city have a chance against either of you in one on one combat. I'm willing to try my luck at a one-on-one -brawl-, however." He raises his brows when Reese reveals she's taken up the bow. "Hrm. Might have trouble parrying, with that... but I'm curious to watch how it plays out regardless."

Ian nods a greeting to Luca when toasted. He doesn't toast back, but he does sip his drink.

Reese looks upon Silas having a warm smile for him. "Oh, brawling. I don't know how to do that. I am looking for a trainer actually, but I am always willing to try despite a lack of skill. It is the only way to learn and get better." She murmurs.

Jayne Orr, Kennex Thug arrives, following Wash.



The arena continues to fill and the crowd grow. Nodding and gently excusing herself the petite raven-haired Princess Valencia, gracefully clad in storm grey silks that embrace slender waist and sultry curves, moves into the center of the Ring of Valor.There is a gracious bow of her head and she offers warm and welcoming smile to one and all as she looks about the room. Waiting for a lull, she calls out to the crowd, her smooth, honey sweet voice ringing loud and true through the arena. "My dearest lords, ladies, sirs and madams, welcome again to my Hart. Tonight is a night of camaraderie, good company and sportsmanship. This is not a formal event. It is simply one to enjoy a good match, excellent people and strong drink or two."

"All here are welcome to participate in the matches or to sit and enjoy the skills presented in the ring. Please enjoy a drink or two at the bar on us," the little dark eyed vixen invites the growing crowd with a bright and beautiful smile and a sparkle in her eye. "As said, we hope to make this a regular event as we move toward our Tournament of Harts later this year. However, for now, please be very welcome and enjoy the evening in our Hart! Please now, warriors, take to the sands. Good luck to you all! Thank you!"

Ian sits at the bar with his cane leaning against his leg and a glass of whiskey in his hand. He nurses it along with the finesse of someone who can and does keep one drink going all night while he watches the negotiations re: who is going to be fighting, and with what.


Porter had heard the news of a sip'n spar. Two of his favorite things, fighting and drinking! And of course, women. The giant of a man is dressed in brightly colored garb, light and loose clothing that fits him well and is clearly tailored for his size. Its clear the choice is a bit flouncy, though perfectly fasionable. Porter is perhaps a bit of a dandy. The man swaggers in with a sailors gait, widespread stance and his beaming grin giving him a bit of a larger then life appearance. He looks down to see the small woman greeting him, and he offers a bright grin to Valencia. "It warms me to know I've a place in your heart, dear lady." Perhaps purposefully misunderstanding her words, he removres his hat with a flourish as he offers a bow to Valencia, then rises up to seat the large, flamboyant hat back atop his hair. "I am Lord Porter Kennex. And sparring, perhaps! First comes the drinking, and we shall see wehre the night ends." He says with a booming laugh.

Nodding again, she steps out of the ring and allows the first fo the fighters to declare a challenge and step into the ring.

Valencia claims this

Waldemai joins in the chant from the cheap seats: "Fight! Fight! Fight! Fight!" Ale is flowing freely in the rafters, it seems.

Reese peeks over to Waldemai. "Woots, fight!" She says joining n with the chant. She has a smile for Porter who she doesn't seem to know. "Greetings. I'm Princess Reese and this my husband Prince Nimble." She murmurs. She then adds. "Well, I think that Baron wants to brawl me, possibly." She adds. "And I would really love to fight my husband."

Wash comes in with Aethan drinks already in hand. "Hey hey. You're right. He's already in here." He salutes. "And look. He's already made a first impression on the Princess Velanosa."

Silas shrugs his shoulders at Reese. "I can't say I'm the best teacher with my fists, but occasionally I can throw a punch that hurts and it connects. Occasionally. You're incredibly swift..." It might very well take forever for him to land a punch.

Luca gives a rich laugh to Silas' talk of brawling, shaking his head ruefully, unruly dark mane swaying to the motion. "Dunno about that, Si. We'll see how drunk I get. Last brawl I agreed to turned into the ugliest bruise-festival of my life even if I managed to outlast to the end. I'm practically useless without at least a stick in hand to do something. Always meant to get a Northern bear-wrestler to show me some pointers, but never got around to it." As he's settling with an order of rum, he glances over to Reese and her introductions, grinning a lopsided grin to the man, dandy or not, and saluting him with drink. "She's Ribbons, I'm Luca. Welcome though certainly." The nicknames and informality of the pair seem to be fixtures, especially in the case of the relaxed Lycene duelist.

Walking in alongside Wash, Aethan's expression is rather ominous, given the purpose of tonight at the Hart. His gaze is drawn for a moment to their hostess as she addresses the crowd, but it quickly moves on when Porter speaks up, finding both of his younger brothers. "I'd have bet money on it, but you'd have known better than to take that wager," he responds to his kinsman, before taking a long drink from...whatever it is that he'd been given.

Ian straightens at the sound of a familiar, cheerful booming voice introducing a familiar name. He turns towards the giant who is the source, a smile, a real, warm smile starting to break through his usual calm expression and give a human life to his eyes. Then he sees who's come in just behind Porter, and the smile fades into an uncommonly tense expressionlessness. He very carefully sets his glass of whiskey on the bar.

Luca checked perception at difficulty 15, rolling 7 higher.

Lucita steps into the Arena area and glances around for a moment assessing who is there. A smile is given Wash, Ian and the others she recognizes before looking toward the arena to see if any spars are in progress.

Valencia returns to Porter's side with another apology for departing to begin the event in earnest. "Lord Porter Kennex? I am so pleased to meet you. You are Lord Ian's brother, yes?" she offers with a bright smile, eyes widening with recognition of the name. A little study of the man is given and she nods. "I believe your brother is at the bar. I am... well delighted. Please be welcome, yes?" she offers,dark eyes glittering up at the man.

"Ah, well, I'm -definitely- no bear wrestler. It could very well end up being a fight of pathetic porportions, as we flail about fruitlessly. Any Redrain warrior would likely shake their head in dismay," Silas answers to Luca, seeming to accept his answer otherwise. He turns and nods to Porter, taking note of his... colorful garb. "Greetings, Lord Kennex. If you fight, you'll find no better talent. If you drink... you'll likely fine plenty of good booze, too."

Waldemai has reached the 'well-lubricated' stage, and having as much fun singing the theme song from the rafters as actually seeing anything: "Fight! Fight! Fight! Fight!"

"Let's see. Ian's here. THat's Prince Luca Grayson, Princess Reese Grayson." Wash continues around the room, point out introductions to each of the individuals that are known to him. It falls a little short of half. "And this is Lucita Igniseri. Not to be confused with her twin sister, Ariella Igniseri. Twins. Can you imagine if I had a twin? Or triplets even? That'd be amazing."

"Princess Reese!" The jolly Porter says warmly, his hat making that trip down as he bows more formally then before, and then another for Prince Nimble. "And Prince Nimble. A pleasure!" He says, rising back up to his feet and again replacing the hat atop his head. Its a very sturdily built hat, designed to survive Porters theatrics. "As well as a Ribbons and Luca." He doesn't seem to mind the informalities, and his hat remains still in such a case. He rises up to his full height and glances around before he beams brightly. "Wash!" He looks a little surprised when he sees who is with him, and his arms go out towards the man, a little bit apart like he intends to hug him through the crowd. "Brother Kennex!" He booms to Aethan, beaming before his gaze flits back to Valencia. "And I, delighted to be here!" He follows Valencias directions to the bar, and spies Ian. He looks to Aethan and Wash, pointing at Ian and then making a 'drinking' gesture. With Porter looming over most of the crowd, he seems to have no problem spying out the others. He looks down to Valencia beside him. "I believe I'm to the bar, for a reunion and drinks. You are welcome to join, should your duties allow! Adieu!" And Porter crowd-walks, the large man swaggering through the crowd with surprising adroitness for one his side.

Reese looks toward Silas. "Oh, that is true. I would be quite hard to hit." She murmurs. "Well what do you say, Nimble, do you want to fight me? We can see who is the best warrior in this marriage." She says and seems to be playful. She then turns to Silas. "Yeah, we wouldn't want to make that much of fools of ourselves." She then smiles as she is introduced. She then turns to Porter, having another smile for him.

Cristoph has been leaning against the bar, quietly drinking his ale until it's mostly down to the bottom of the glass. Once the chanting begins, he looks upwards at the rafters with amusement painted across his expression. Then it's down to the rest of fighters to see just who's going to jump into the ring first. His attention meanwhile, drifts around the crowd that's gathering in the Hart.

Lucita hears her name and turns that direction, approaching Wash. "Good evening." She keeps it short and relatively simple, for her that is. "Good to see what looks like everyone having recovered from the festivities the evening not long past, in time to enjoy another this evening."

Luca lets out a laughing sigh across to Reese, rolling his eyes dramatically and tossing back the rest of his rum. "Fine fine then! I suppose we'll have our dance early then, love." To Porter he's grinning a wry, apologetic sort of thing. "Apologies, but I've got to go get my arse handed by my beautiful wife. We'll share a drink later, especially if a brother of I's." I? for Ian? Apparently. It's hard to shorten a three letter name, okay?! Either way, the CHampion prince rises up, offering a hand out for Reese all gallant aside from the smirk, and leading her down towards the arena proper. "Suppose it's good we get this over before I'm drunk enough I can claim that for reason of the loss, eh?!" he calls out to the crowds self-deprecatingly.

Silas has joined the bar.

Waldemai leads a round of good-natured hooting from the rafters as Prince Luca offers to get whomped for the delight of all. "Five hundred silver on the princess," he calls. "Any takers?"

Aethan looks from person to person as Wash points them out, inclining his head toward each prince and princess as they are named. Then he looks up to see that Porter has noticed them, and responds to him in a...noticeably less jolly tone, "Brother! It is good to see you again!" He then turns back to Wash, address his talk of twin siblings. "If you'd been a twin, I am sure there are a few sailors we've known who would have thrown themselves overboard," he comments in reply, before greeting Lucita when she comes close to speak with Wash, "Good evening." His gze then drifts back over to his youngest brother again, looking for a moment as if he wants to walk over to Ian. He does not, however, instead remaining by his kinsman's side for the time being.

:nods to Reese. "Another time, then. Perhaps I'll look into actually getting better at it so I can teach you. It's a useful thing to have if you're ever disarmed." Silas turns again and starts to stroll in the direction of the bar, content to simply watch Bow!Reese versus Luca.

Reese gives Luca a happy smile. "Okay, Nimble and that is true. I have to get spare you before you are drunk and can claim excuses." She murmurs. She smiles when Waldemai bets upon herself, giving him a wave. She then heads into the rink, moving with this extreme agile grace.

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

Valencia offers a warm and welcoming smile to Wash as he arrives and then to the man with him. "My Lord Wash. Sir," she offers, "I am so very pleaed to meet you." Turning to smile at yet another new, but strangely familiar face, she smile again. "Welcome to my Hart. Please make yourself most comfortable, sir," she offers, allowing them to find their way to Ian and Porter. Turning, the little vixen offers a smile to Lucita as she arrives, offering her a little kiss and hug of welcome before apologetically slipping off to see the other guests.

Stormy, a silvery gray hunting hound have been dismissed.

Wash already has a drink, but he heads that way anyway. "I'll take that action!" Wash called back to Waldemai. "I have five hundred silver to lose. But the odds are, the Prince handily defeats his wife."

Reese wields Devotion, a silvery pink alaricite short sword.


Porter may be unfortunately shedding some introductions as he passes to the bar in the loud, busy crowd. He aims for near Ian, looming beside the man in an imposing way until the person in his way vacates the space. "And the Brothers Kennex UNITED!" He says, reaching out to clap Ian lightly on the shoulder. "Aethan is here, with Wash. Did you see them?" Porter looks over again, seeing Aethan not approaching where he stands with Ian. The big man arches a single brow, and then points at Aethan and wash, and makes grandiose 'come hither motions' with his hand, trying to reel them in with his fraternal fishing line.

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

Waldemai signals to Lord Wash, using a gesture more genteel than is common in the rafters. "You're on, m'lord!"

Ian shifts as though he's going to slide off his barstool, and then... doesn't. And so there it is, two men who are definitely brothers -- their features have even careworn in similar ways --- looking at each other from across a crowded room like the world's weirdest and most awkward romantic comedy. Minus the romance. And the comedy. The moment is shattered, as many things are shattered, by Porter. "I did," Ian tells Porter. Then, lacking anything more intelligent to say, asks: "Do you want a drink?"

Reese peeks toward Wash giving him an impish smile. "Oh, my Lord you know so little about marriage. The wife always wins." She says playfully. She then draws her blade and gets into a fighting stance.

Luca takes moderate damage.

Cristoph drains the rest of his ale and leaves the glass on the edge of the counter. When Reese and Luca enter into the ring with one another, his eyebrows lift briefly. He crosses his arms over chest and settles in to see how this thing plays out.

Luca takes serious damage.

Waldemai leads a chant for Princess Reese, all in good fun: "Rats rats ree! Hit 'em in the knee. Rats rats rass! Hit 'em in the other knee!"

Lucita returns the Princess's hug, and nods understandingly, such a nice crowd here. A good natured chuckle is given as Wash deals with drinks and bets and family. She makes her way to a spot she can have a drink and watch the spar.

Reese takes moderate damage.

Gerard, a secretary arrives, following Brianna.

Luca checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 28, rolling 38 higher.

Luca remains capable of fighting.

Waldemai hides his eyes at that one!

Luca checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 49, rolling 49 higher.

Luca remains capable of fighting.

Luca checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 76, rolling 5 higher.

Luca remains capable of fighting.

Luca checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 81, rolling 2 lower.

Luca checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 45, rolling 36 higher.

Luca remains alive, but close to death.

Luca falls unconscious.


"Brother." Porter greets with a low chuckle to Ian. "If the answer to that question is ever 'no', you should immediately think of where to place your dagger. For the man that stands before you shall be an imposter." Porter says, his deep voice carrying over the din of the crowd easily, without him needing to stoop down to speak to the still seated Ian. "Pick for me a favorite, this place is new and novel to me. Do they have a local special?" Porter did enjoy savoring the local tastes... and more then just the drinks! His roaming gaze lights on Wash and Aethan again

Waldemai cheers for royal couple. "Well fought, your highnesses! Well fought!"

Silas casually swirls a glass of red Lycene wine as he observes the trouncing Luca gets at the hands of his beribboned wife. He looks impressed - but not necessarily surprised. "Luca... you need to get out of the way more, I deduce." Cue sage nod.

With Wash heading toward the bar, and his brothers, Aethan now follows along, though now his melancholy face becomes somewhat wary, as if he has no idea what to expect when he comes to stand in front of his youngest brother. "Good evening, Ian. It seems Arx has agreed with you," he greets the youngest Kennex brother, glancing at his cane before giving the fight happening behind him a quick look over his shoulder, suddenly seeming to have difficulty keeping his attention focused in any one direction for very long.

Reese fights in this defensive and dodging style, darting about and evading the majority of her husband's blows. Neither of the warriors are in their armor and they both move very quickly. Luca took a less defensive style and that seems to be his undoing as Reese is able to find openings in his defense and eventually she takes him down fully. They both look rather exhausted and her breathing is quite elevated. "Luca?" She says, checking to make sure her husband is okay.

Lady Brianna Halfshav steps into the arena of the lodge, bright as a flame despite the darkness of the black silk jacket that she wears, no shirt underneath to reveal pale skin and the cut of her collarbone and the hint of decolletage, with black leather skimming her long legs. But her wildfirehair catches on the light, her lips curved into a brighter smile, but her eyes on the ring. Of course, she only catches the end of the match, looking perhaps unsurprised but very interested. Unladylike and careless, she lifts her voice to whoop for the victor.

"They have better than a special. They have Princess Valencia," Ian tells Porter, warming to the subject of alcohol like a true son of Thrax. "One day when she's not so busy, get her to pick something for you. In the meantime, they..." Once again, though, he trails off at Aethan's voice. Those intense, incisive eyes, almost unnaturally blue, turn from one of his brothers to the next. He studies Aethan for a moment, his expression carefully kept parked in neutral; whatever conclusions he comes to are hidden away. "Aethan. I'm glad to see you." That, at least, has a ring of a deeper truth to it.

He's attention stays tied to the match between Reese and Luca while it goes on, occasionally wincing for a well placed blow here or there. "I hope there weren't too many people who wagered on Prince Luca." Cristoph calls over the din with a hint of laughter in his voice when the man is bested. It would be around now that he orders another glass, but instead he seems content to lay off the booze, at least for now.

Wash is too delighted to have all three of the Kennex brothers in one place. Even the sight of Luca getting thrashed doesn't seem to bother him. "I am glad to see you both. Ian's done nothing but mope for six months." Wash claims. He offers a glance in the direction of Valencia and Lucita. "Despite some very good company."

"Princess?" Lord Porter muses, his gaze darting around the crowd til it lands on the young princess that had first greeted him coming in the door. Oops. "Well! I should take her up on the menu, at a time when its not so crowded." The tall giant agrees, before beaming when Aethan and Wash arrive at the bar. Porter stands behind Ian, letting him talk over the seated man so that all of them can face in to each other a bit. "And I the same, Aethan. It was quite the surprise to see you, I didn't expect you to be coming down for a week or more, yet. What was the rush?" If he notices the discomfort, he draws zero attention to it.


The spectactle the Grayson married couple put on is one of the most skilled that can be seen in the city, both moving blades and bodies with perfect time and grace, seeming a large portion of the fight to be simply dancing some infinitely elaborate steps together rather than fighting. But early on, Luca was playing cocky and overextended, taking a blow of his wife's wicked alaericite to limb that slowed him. After that, there was a lot of back and forth, his own return nick a bare showing in a downward spiral of the complex dance, as they wear each other into the ground beyond what should be normal limits, Luca taking progressively worse bruises for his trouble. By the end of it, she's battered through his defenses fully and struck him a flat-bladed hit to the gut that drops him. And from his knees as he finally gets wind back, he's raising his own alaericite in tribute of her, even while those nearer the arena might hear him declare wholeheartedly. "Gods you're sexy! Well won love." And with that, he's rising up to the accolades for his wife and happily shaking it off to go back towards seats and more booze.

Silas waves to Brianna, when he catches sight of that familiar flaming red hair. "Hello, Lady Brianna!" There's a notable pause, as he beholds the rest of her attire. "I vaguely remember discussing a potential fight between us in our latest correspondences. Are you interested?"

2 Thrax Guards arrives, following Gideon.

Reese's cheeks are flushed with a pink warmth and she seems happy with her win. Luca's words only seem to enhance her turn. "Finally, I have been trying to win against you forever." She says. She has a smile of greeting for Brianna as she notices her arrival. "Lady Brianna." She greets.

Luca wields
Viper's Soul, an elegant extended-hilt Lycene sabre of Alaericite.

Gideon enters the Hart silently, as silent as an armored giant can at any rate. He is a bulk of crimson, the tall, slender man covered in steel that reflects like blood in moonlight. His helmet is smooth on one side, without an eye slot and only a few holes for breathing, leaving a single hole for his vision. He doesn't say anything immediately, but stands quietly to watch the ongoing contests.

Brianna's fierce blue eyes sweep towards the ring, then towards Silas as the lord greets her. "Am I ready to get humbled in the view of all of Arx, so quickly after my victory at Gloria's?" she questions, all dry humor flavoring the edges ofher words even as she exhales a laugh. She nods her agreement, gesturing to the ring with a sweep of her fingers. "Anytime, Lord Whitehawk. Though you will owe me a drink, if you beat me." Her smile is much brighter as Reese moves to greet her, her fingers now lifted in a quick, smart salute for the ommander. "Your highness! A pleasure to see you again."

Valencia'e dark eyes widen at the match, her attention completely stolen away. Eyebrows lift as Reese takes the upper hand and sends her beloved cousin to the sands and it is all the little princess can do to keep from cheering brazenly for both combatants. "Bravo! Well fought!" she calls to Luca and Reese, her smile could not be biggers. The little fox turns to welcome Brianna with that same smile, offering a warm incline of head and then turns to give Wash another little smile. Taking a deep breath, she slips into the crowd to see to her duties as host of the Hart, stopping in her tracks to see Prince Gideon arrive. "My sweetest prince! I am... I am so happy to see you. Congratulations on your new son," she smiles up at the Thraxan Prince, offering him a delicate hand. "I am so very happy for you both. Come... let us toast you sweet family, yes? The Kennex's are here as is Lord Wash," she nods to the bar.

Lucita watches the spar, admiring each movement made by the contestants, oblivious to others while it is going on.

"It is good to see you too," Aethan responds to his youngest brother, the shadow of a smile appearing on his face for a split second before it disappears again. Turning to Wash, he then follows the man's eyes toward the two women indicated, before his attention returns to his brothers so he can add, "Very good company is not always able to replace the /right/ company. No matter how lovely. As for the rush in getting here...well, some things are better left for quieter environments. I am sure we will find plenty of time to discuss it later." As he addresses Porter's question, the eldest brother's blue eyes take on a stormy cast.

Silas smiles back at Brianna. "I was disappointed to have slept in and missed the Rite to Gloria, myself." He tilts his head, thoughtfully. "But that just piques my curiosity even more." He sets aside the glass of wine he was nursing and adjusts his guantlets. "Terms accepted. Let me guess... you prefer whiskey to wine?"

Gideon turns his head, it was difficult to show emotion when completely covered. "I might be more concerned if Wash wasn't at the bar." He jests as he lifts his helmet, letting the dark locks fall back over the once handsome face as he gives the Kennex a nod. "Thank you though, Bjorn by all accounts is bigger than I was when Inwas born. He will be quite the big guy." He adds towards Valencia, offering a smile in return. "I've been neglecting stopping in, tonight seemed like a good opportunity to visit though, the little one is resting."

With one last look at Aethan, Ian seems to come to a decision. He leans across the bar to order a bottle of Maelstrom rum and three more glasses. "Leave the bottle," he tells the bartender. "And we may want another one."


The largest of the Kennex' frowns when he sees how Aethans expression takes that the stormy cast, and his head inclines slowly. "Well. For the evening, then. For now, we drink." Porter looks behind the bar, then to Ian. He thumps the bar in approval, and reaches for the glass to start pouring rum for the Kennex Three, and Wash.


"That's... very true." Wash admits. "Well," He reaches for the bottle to refill all their glasses for a toast. "Here's hoping the right company just made port, yes?"

"If I am buying. If it is someone else's dime, I am not one of those guileless Northerners who cannot appreciate a good glass of wine," counters Brianna with a bright laugh, waving off the answer as she moves to the ring. She catches her fingers on Reese's shoulder as she passes, dragging in a light, flirty gesture there even as she stage-whispers, "Trying to borrow your luck. I hope that you will cheer for me, your highness! Not that your own reputation depends on it, but--." She winks, before stepping into the ring and unslinging a one-handed axe.

Brianna wields wicked wildfires one-handed waraxe with deer hide wrapped handle.

There is a pause to Aethan's comment and a look and the litte vixen gives a playful wink to Lucita, whispering to the woman with a smile before turning back to Gideon. "It is perfectly understandable. To have you hear now is what matters. Please, have drink and enjoy. Perhaps you will spar tonight?" she asks him wiht a little nod, dark eyes turning to smile at Luca and Reese as the depart the sands.

Valencia claims this

Reese looks toward Brianna as she feels the sweep of her fingers. "Oh, I will cheer for you. You are far more sexy than Silas, despite him being my good friend." She then pulls pink ribbons from her golden lucks. "Here wear them for the fight. My favor." She adds, before looking to Aethan. She has a smile for as well.

Waldemai is no warrior, but he has the muscles of a blacksmith. "Is there a commoner here who'll brawl me?" he calls. "Come on...they've put on a show for us. It's our turn now!"

Luca, settled back to his spot with a bottle of rum held in hand, is watching Bri and his wife with amusement, clearly already settling from his thrashing and amused by it even. The touching and such gets a thoughtful sort of arch of brow, but as she's heading out, he's putting two fingers to his lips and letting out a horrifically shrill whistle for her and then cheering. "Yeah! Stomp his tin can arse, Bri!" Then with flash of white teeth for Silas, he adds. "Sorry Si, she's better looking! Go team Red!"

Silas chuckles and begins to move in the direction of the ring, the space where Luca and Reese previously occupied! "Clever woman," Silas compliments the Northerner. He unsheathes his rubicund sword hanging at the left side of his hip, then clicks his tongue when he overhears Reese and Luca promising to cheer his opponent on. "Cruel betrayal from my fellow countrymen... but an understandable one."

2 Thrax Guards have been dismissed.

Silas wields silver hued rubicund long sword wrapped in carmine leather.

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

Team pink and red! Brianna ties those pink ribbons around the pauldron that she wears, before turning to face Silas with an innocent smile. Then, she is all warrior when she lunges at him.

It seems some are running later than usual as Graham enters to see if things are still happening or if he's missed everything entirely it's a good thing that he's come prepared as things arent indeed over.

Silas takes moderate damage.

Finishing off the glass that he brought into the arena with him, Aethan nods slightly at Wash's suggestion. "Here's hoping," he echoes the sentiment, though he does not sound entirely convinced himself. Nonetheless, he picks up one of the glasses of rum that Porter pours out, and lifts it, "Yes, for now, we drink, Brother. Business can wait for later, when there is less rum needing to be drunk."

Ian lifts his glass to take up the toast, in gesture if not in words. He can still knock back Maelstrom with the best of them, something which he proves, now.

Waldemai was too busy quaffing to get a bet down on this fight. "Good! I can cheer for both of them!"

Gideon lulls over Valencia's words, taking it into consideration as he peers over the crowd, the single icey eye taking them into consideration. "I may, I'm waiting on a new blade and may br somewhat under equipped but perhaps sparring could be a good thing." He says simply, not quite a yes or a no for her question. "Though for drinks, not quite. I'm still recovering some, Victus sent me some old, limited edition Maelstrom Rum and it's still processing."

Lucita lifts one eyebrow at the comment, her gaze going to Ian is sharp, chin raising a little but the smile on her lips does not falter as Valencia speaks with her and her attention, largely, returns to the others around the room.


"Then to drink!" Porter says, thumping his glass on the bar before he downs it swiftly. And starts to pour another. "If the business can wait, then I shall return for it later! For now... to mingle." The giant grins to his close family and friends, and then sets off into the crowd to see what sort of shenanigans he can find himself into. Fortunately, nothing that starts a ruckus.


Silas takes minor damage.

Silas takes minor damage.

Silas takes minor damage.

Silas takes moderate damage.

Silas takes moderate damage.

Silas takes moderate damage.

Silas takes moderate damage.

Brianna takes minor damage.

Silas checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 45, rolling 10 higher.

Silas remains capable of fighting.

Ian has joined the bar.

Brianna takes moderate damage.

Silas checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 67, rolling 29 lower.

Silas checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 34, rolling 20 higher.

Silas remains alive, but close to death.

Silas falls unconscious.

Wash settles down at the bar. "I'll give you that spar tonight Aethan, if we're both still standing before they ring the final bell." He gestures to the spar going on in the square. "Glad I dind't bet on that one. I expected the commander of the nightguard to make a better showing."

Reese orders herself a mug of ale as she watches with the fight with intense interest. "Woots! Firebird." She says cheering Brianna as she wins. She gives Silas a sheepish smile though.

Waldemai cheers for all. "There's a good fight! Well done! Well done!"

The commander is certainly a skilled fighter, but Brianna? Brianna is a surprise. She is light, nimble on her feet. And she is fierce, every inch of her a Northern warrior as she throws herself into the fight with a wild intensity. She dances in, pressing attacks and dancing away before she can be touched. She takes a few punishing wacks, but mostly-- Mostly she presses and presses, until Silas is too tired to continue and she is grinning victoriously. Then, she stops and gracefully curtsies. "My lord ally," she offers, lightly.

Graham moves further in looking back and forth from those sparring to those watching. He seems to be making his way towards the latter for now though he looks for the owner of the Hart and others she may be near to relax for now.

Silas versus Brianna... goes surprisingly slowly for awhile, with both fighters doing little damage to one another. Brianna doesn't seem to get past Silas's metal shell, while Silas can't seem to really -hit- the nimble Northerner. Eventually, it is revealed that Silas cannot keep it up forever underneath the layers of metal he wore, and Brianna's blows gradually begin to hit. They're not hard, necessarily, but the build up matters! Eventually, he acknowledges the futility of continuing, and raises his hands in surrender. "I yield. Excellent job, Lady Halfshav." He smirks back to her as he attempts to regain his breath, before wondering outloud. "Does this mean you buy me a drink?"

It would seem the ladies have the night as Brianna brings Silas to yield. Valencia looks duly impressed, cheering out to both fighters with great approval of a well fought match. "It is so very nice to see such talent in the ring. I think we shall have to have our Tournament of Harts very soon," she muses to Gideon and Lucita. The little vixen turns to welcome Graham with a bright and beautiful smile, "You will be sparing tonight, my lord?" she asks the young solider.

Another shrill whistle after some sympathetic wincing for Silas and headshaking at the clanging of armor. "Well fought, both of you! But beautiful foot bnad bladework, Bri. I call next dance once you've settled!" With that, he's tossing back more of his bottle of rum and, over shoulder towards other talk of the showing, adding. "Armor on the battlefield is a salvation, in the ring it can be rough though. Si's still probably the most untiring sort in it I've ever seen though!" After which, raising his bottle high, he's calling out. "Who's next! Liquor should be flowing free by now and spirits up for a fight!"

Ian follows Porter with his electric gaze as his brother heads off in search of pretty girls. For once in his life, the incredibly skilled swordplay going on in the room is not what he's focused on. Normally, wild horses couldn't draw his attention away from a good spar. Now, it's his family (Wash being included in the category of family) and rum, in that order. Oh, and... for the first time in the night, he notices Lucita, and nods to her.

Sitting at the bar with his brothers, Aethan inclines his head. "If we're both still standing. Sparring with the troops left back at home is not much of a challenge, so it will be good to face off with someone that will keep me on my toes, for a change," he remarks, giving some insight into how much he is enjoying stepping into his father's shoes. When he knocks back his glass of rum and pours another, it becomes clear why there is a question of whether they might still be standing when the time comes to spar, however.

Reese peeks over to Luca, nodding in response to his words. She takes a sip of her ale and seems to be relaxing now. "This is night is a great, Princess Valencia." She compliments. She then turns her attention to Ian. "You family is getting to have quite the presence in this city." She says with warmth in her voice. "I'm Princess Reese." She adds, introducing herself to Aethan. She might have introduced already, but Reese seems to have lost a little focus.

"I certainly owe you that," agrees Brianna to Silas, her smile amused and her eyes dancing with the lust of battle that still tinges the way that she carries herself. Then Luca is shouting to her, and sorry, Reese, but her gaze is dragging slowly, appreciatively over the Grayson prince. But she only calls back lightly, answering: "Whenever you care to, your highness. Someone needs to humble me soon."

Graham considers a few moments the question. "I'm not sure your highness, would it please you if I did sparr?" He asks he looks over nodding to the others who are near by as well while clapping politely for the end of the current match.

Lucita looks toward Ian and then the man who made the comment before returning the nod. Concern shows and she glances at one of the empty stools near him and back at Ian, questioningly but remains where she is. "Lord Graham, Good evening."

"Ha! The best loss I've taken, then." Freeze booze. He looks to Luca when he finally comprehends the other man's compliment. "Indeed, I am the most unrelenting tin can out there," Silas nods to him. "I've worked hard at it. One day, I'll work on my reflexes again... when I learn how to better take care of myself in the wild. Beyond knowing how to start a fire." Survival, in other words. Silas returns his blade to it's rightful place in his scabbard and moves to take a seat at the ringside table. "I'm rooting for the sexy redhead again you, now."

Ian refills his glass. "Wash has been practicing," he tells Aethan. "He's pretty good, now. When he's drunk, anyway. I've never seen him fight sober." And then here's Reese, so Ian does the introduction thing. "Princess Reese Grayson, Lord Aethan Kennex, my brother." Nobody said he was GOOD at the introduction thing.

Gideon shirks away, as not to be uncomfortably surrounded, putting a couple steps between himself and the growing group around Valencia. "I was wondering as well, I'll step down there with you if you're up for it Graham." Gideon offers with a shrug. "I need to shake off the rust."

"Well, as Ian will tell you, keeping someone on their toes is my specialty." Wash assures Aethan. "I haven't gotten really -good- at it yet. The booze helps me forget that bit." He tosses back what remains of his glass.

"Ribbons rather!" Luca corrects his wife with a quip, ducking away from her as if from a swat, then offering jovially onward to Aethan. "And I'm Nimble as she calls me, or Luca as most others do. Pleasure, other I-brother!" Grinning wryly to Brianna's offer back, he casts her a decidedly Lycene wink of cinnamon eye and retorts. "I can't promise any of that, but I wouldn't mind a twirl. Let's let some other's get some joy though first." With that, he's shifting attention to Graham's talk, the lopsided grin flashing teeth again. "I don't know wh ich highness you meant, but it'd certainly please me and any of the rest of us who came to watch the fun. Get in there! Pick a matchup and have fun."

Waldemai waves for the staff. "A round for the rafters here!" Yep, smithing pays better than farming!

Valencia smiles warmly but gently to Gideon and gently squeezes his harm. "You must come see me when we have a quieter time to speak. So much to catch up on, yes?" she nods. A impish smile finds her face to Graham's question, "My lord, to see matches of this gallant talent is beyond my heart's delight. I would be so glad to see you spar this evening, my lord. But come, let me see to your drink. A sweet nod is offered to Silas as he moves off the sands, and another affectinonate smile of given to Reese, "Thank you so much, my lovely Princess Reese. I feel like tonight is one that so many interesting things may happen, yes?" she nods slipping to the bar to see that the Kennex's and Washare well cared for, pausing to send Lizette, one of the Hart's buxom pretty little barmaids up to the rafters with a drink for Waledmai. To her credit, the little Lizette is strangely agile despite long skirts and corset.

Silas has left the bar.

Silas has joined the ringside table.

Brianna grins as she nods to Luca, accepting the suggestion as she moves out of the ring, slinging her axe back on her hip. She moves to join them, her fingers reaching up to undo the pink ribbons and offer them back to Reese, before leaning closer to plant a warm kiss against the princess's cheek. "Thank you!" That said brightly, she slides to claim a chair with a quick smile to the others. "Lady Brianna Halfshav," she introduces herself to those she doesn't know, the Kennex brothers and Valencia.

The young soldier chuckles but nods "You've twisted my arm indeed." Graham speaks to Valencia as he will consider what to drink before choosing wine. He looks back to Gideon and nods "It would be an honor of course."

Reese's arrival at the bar prompts Aethan to stand up, leaving his drink on the bar fot he moment, and then bow to her as Ian makes introductions. "Your Highness, a pleasure to meet you," he greets her, then looks back and forth between his youngest brother and their "adopted" sibling. Reaching for his rum, he drinks it down before replying to them, "Booze is good for that, forgetting. And for courage. If only it helped nearly so much with coordination." He then bows his head somewhat when Brianna introduces herself, and gives his own name, unaware whether she knows the rest of his family, "Lord Aethan Kennex, my Lady."

Gideon nods at Graham's acceptance, looking back to the center of the room. "It seems as though we're lacking entertainment now if you want to step in- or would you like a few drinks first?" He asks the young man, stretching a little. It'd been a few months since he'd fought or killed anyone he pondered

"Kennex, that is an-- Islander name, right? Not a Tyde vassal, I'd guess, but--" questions Brianna carelessly, unashamed of her lack of general courtier knowledge even as she smiles, crooked and easy, towards Aethan. She nods to the bottle of rum, a laugh catching in her throat as she adds: "Care to pour me a drink, then, my lord? I need a lot of courage if I am going to find myself in the ring with Prince Luca."

Luca's distracted from the Kennex introductions by the talk of sparring, looking Gideon up and down with appreciation for his offer to spar Graham, calling out. "Get in there you two!" He calls encouragingly, then asides to the nearer group. "I got 500 on the Stonewood. Gotta love a big man who can move well, but I think Graham will make a good showing!"

Ian tops up his drink with the rapidly depleting bottle of rum. No standing for introductions for him. He's not the one who inherited the manners. He is, however, the one with the bottle of rum, and will pour a glass to Brianna, if not deliver it to her. "A Grimhall vassal."

Luca catches Brianna's comment belatedly and snorts aside to her. "All this pressure to manage a challenge. You're another of my finest footwork students ever. I'm not so sure I'll be so much a challenge as made up to be. You've gotten better even since last we danced. Will be a fun match regardless of outcome!"

Wash gets serious about drinking, he feels somewhat superfluous to the process of introductions."

Waldemai shouts down from the rafters, "I'll see your five hundred, Prince Luca!" Stonewood...royalty...The bet's the thing!

Reese seems to struggle for a bit to keep up with things. She has She has a gentle smile for Aethan and Ian. "Oh a brother." She murmurs gently. "I have two sisters." She adds. She nuzzled her cheek into the kiss from Brianna and is still holding her booze.

"Only if you cut the 'Prince' shite for the night, Wald!" Luca calls back boistrously, apparently familiar with the man. "Not going to take your money when you lose if I'm not just Luca, or at least 'Hey Lazy arse!' or something, for it!"

Waldemai is drunk enough to take that challenge! He counts the coins in his pouch, orders another round for the rafters, and calls down, "Then let's make it a thousand, Luca!"

"I have no siblings, much to my ducal father's disappointment, forever and ever," replies Brianna, self-deprecation and amusement touching the edges of her words like velvet as she shares on the subject. But Luca only gets a bright look, fierce blue eyes sparking under the fan of umber lashes as her gaze lifts to him even as she faux-whispers to Reese, "I think he is overestimating /how/ good a student I am. I'm nowhere near your level yet, despite the luck of the Rite. But, I'm sure it will be /fun/. And humbling." Ian's answer draws her attention, her brow curving even as she nods, accepting. "Grimhall, then. Well! That could be more depressing of a name. Like Whitehold, for a castle which is /always covered in snow/."

"What's wrong with the snow? I love the snow." Wash says confidently. "It's all bright and pure. So nice."

"Hm, sure I would be glad to battle now and drink later, help to wash down a loss." Graham comments he chuckles moving towards the ring for sparring. He pauses a quick moment to say something to there host before completing the trip.

"I have two older sisters." Reese says somewhat in response to Brianna's words. "Oh, I don't think he is. I saw you fight just now and I fought against you once myself. I don't think that all." She murmurs and there is warmth in her voice. "It will be an interesting fight to watch." She adds.

The little vixen glances up at Wademai and then to Luca as the men issue and agree to their wager as she moves across the room to the bar, pausing to speak quietly with Magg and then turning to offer proper greeting to Wash, Ian and Aethan, and again welcoming Brianna with a smile. "My lords, my ladies, you are well cared for I hope? Do you want for anything?" Valencia asks with a bright smile, dark eyes dancing as she takes up a glass of rich Lycene red. "Well fought, my Lady, your Highness," the little dark haired fox toasts whole heartedly. "It was quite a beautiful match. Thank you so much both for sharing such talent. I hope everyone is enjoying themselves."

"Done and done!" Luca calls back easily, toasting with his dwindling bottle of rum and laughing as he relaxes near the group he'd gotten dragged to. The comments from Bri draw smirk back to him and rueful shake of head that seems to say 'we'll see', but he's unable to hold tongue when his wife cuts in and he's quipping back her way with a wink for her and Bri. "Which is to say, she'll delight in seeing me trounced again!" The talk of Grimhalls and Whiteholds just draws a laugh as his attention shifts to the fight hopefully coming.

Gideon shakes his head with a small chuckle at Grahams words. "Don't undersell yourself, I'm out of Practice and have been busier lately making life than taking it. We'll see how it goes kid." The prince speaks up, clasping his helmet onto his plate to keep it from flying off as he steps down.

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

Silas retrieves his glass of wine he set down earlier and proceeds to sip and brood. The fatigue he accumulated in his bout with Brianna seems to have already washed off him, though the sweat more than likely will make him smelly later.

2 Thrax Guards have been dismissed.

Ian leans his head towards Aethan when Gideon and Graham start towards the ring. "The one with one eye is Prince Gideon Thrax," he says, gesturing with his glass in Gideon's general direction.

"I left my rapier at home. Perhaps you would allow me a practice sword?" Wash asks Valencia. "I feel more comfortable with that anyway at my skill level."

Reese has a mug of ale in her hand and is perched at the bar now. She watches the soon to start fight with great interest.

Jayne Orr, Kennex Thug have been dismissed.

Valencia nods and smiles to Wash, "Of course, my lord. Would you requrire armor as well?" Valencia offers turning to a lovely blonde serving girl with big green eyes to instruct her to open the arena's trunks and weapon's rack.

THE GOLDEN HART - Red Armor Tournament Chest is now unlocked.

THE GOLDEN HART - Blue Armor Tournament Chest is now unlocked.

THE GOLDEN HART - Violet Armor Tournament Chest is now unlocked.

THE GOLDEN HART - Silver Armor Tournament Chest is now unlocked.

Lucita laughs softly at the interplay between Luca and Waldemai then turns her attention to the spars.

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

THE GOLDEN HART - Weapons Rack is now unlocked.

Gideon takes minor damage.

Gideon takes serious damage.

"I don't wear armor, generally." Wash says. He glances at Aethan. "Nor does he, last I checked." He grins at Aethan. "So we should keep this mostly even. If possible."

Luca wields
Viper's Soul, an elegant extended-hilt Lycene sabre of Alaericite.

Gideon slides the cutlass at his side free, testing it's weight with a few spins before the two began. As they had though, he advances giving a few quick swings of which are deflected away in quick parries. His armor allows the first blown to glance off, but a strike on his blind side nearly knocks him over, staggering him back where he digs in. He is utterly silent, looking ahead to read the smaller man, no longer advancing in immediately, but focusing on defending against the superior weapon.

Reese is overheard praising Valencia for: Great hostest!

Luca is overheard praising Valencia for: A grand time with liquor and combat

Luca is overheard praising Reese for: For not just beating her husband, but beating him into the ground

Reese is overheard praising Luca for: He is always a champion, even when he takes a beating.

Luca is overheard praising Silas for: Unrelenting tin can action!

The young Stonewood fights cautiously as is his way, he doesnt typically go for overwhelming force unless it's called for. Graham moves to block and parry but doesnt land a solid blow a glancing shot before finding an opening he'll strike though stepping back to await the battle to continue.

Tournament chests open as well as the weapons rack, the litte dark haired princess nods to Wash, "My Hart is yours. At your pleasure, sir," Valencia offers with a gracious incline of head and an impish smile. "Would you care for a skirt, just in case?" she offers with out losing a beat, dark eyes playfully teasing and utterly unserious in the offer, turning to watch the match on the sands unfold.

Reese is overheard praising Belladonna for: A wonderful garden party.

Nodding his head when Ian answers Brianna concerning whom the Kennex family serves, Aethan looks toward where Gideon is taking part in a contest when his younger brother points out the Thrax scion. His attention is then caught by Wash's conversation with Valencia, his grim gaze drifting between the pair. "No, armor just gets in the way when you do most of your fighting aboard ships. To keep it fair, I should probably take a practice blade as well. If you don't mind loaning me one as well, your Highness?" he asks their dark-haired hostess after agreeing with his kinsman.

Gideon takes minor damage.

Gideon takes minor damage.

Gideon takes moderate damage.

Gideon takes minor damage.

Ian can't help himself. He's trying to pay attention to his family, but the fighting in the ring has finally dragged his attention away. His sharp eyes follow the give and take of the combat. He even forgets his rum in favor of watching things play out.

Reese takes another sip of her ale as she continues to watch the fight with interest. She then turns to Aehan. "Yeah, I got some leather armor for when I am on a ship, so I don't drown."

"Plus, I imagine swimming in full kit would frankly be suicide!" Luca offers absently to talk of armor on ships, watching the fight with an intensity of a master weighing every motion. He calls out every time the nimble Graham gets a blow, whistling and cheering and generally carrying on in a not terribly prince-like manner probably. But when does he ever?

Gideon takes moderate damage.

Gideon checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 3, rolling 50 higher.

Gideon remains capable of fighting.

Gideon checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 5, rolling 82 higher.

Gideon remains capable of fighting.

Gideon checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 15, rolling 46 higher.

Gideon remains capable of fighting.

Graham takes minor damage.

Gideon checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 18, rolling 29 higher.

Gideon remains capable of fighting.

"I have never been on a ship, but fighting on one sounds like a nightmare," Brianna admits, a laugh caught in her throat for her own lack. And, as always, she's shameless with it, except for to slide a look towards Reese thoughtfully. "You have one of your own, right, Princess Reese? Perhaps you'll teach me to spar on it, when you have a free moment."

Gideon checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 42, rolling 0 higher.

Gideon remains capable of fighting.

Graham takes minor damage.

Graham takes minor damage.

Gideon checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 75, rolling 24 lower.

Gideon checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 40, rolling 9 higher.

Gideon remains alive, but close to death.

Gideon falls unconscious.

Lucita watches the battle between Graham and Gideon with rapt attention. "Lord Graham, again you show such skill."

Waldemai cheers for the fighters. "Well fought! Well fought!" He sends a pouch of coins down to Luca. "I'll be making that back when the campaigning season starts," he laughs. An armorsmith always has business!

Reese cheers. "Good fight." She calls out.

"I'll forego the skirt today I think." Wash says. "It's really for more advanced techniques than I am ready for." As the most recent duel concludes, Wash applauds. "Well struck Lord Stonewood." Wash glances up at Waldemai. "I guess I should just pay your winnings directly to the man that cost me mine?" He is amused by the result.

"Actually, it was one of the more exhilerating battles I've ever faced." Luca, still absent, and a bit distracted with his cheering, now on his feet, but adding after with a puckish grin for Brianna. "I had another man, strong as a bloody ox, give me a boost in a jump a good thirty feet across to a fleeing smuggler ship once. Fought off their entire crew while the Thrax captain caught up and helped take them. Was a glorious battle!" Luca's eyes seem a little hazy with fond memory. He's stopping though to call out his cheers for the end of the battle. "That's it! You made him work for it at the end. Fine fight! Well done, both of you!" The money is taken from Waldemai with a wry sort of laugh and shake of head as he calls back. "Abyss, I'll probably be the one giving it back to you, Wald, and more besides. I've considered getting some more metal for my mix for harder battles now and then!"

Gideon fights on, even as he's deflected away time and time again, finding only a few opportunities to strike out against the smaller man as his fatigue grows. However, he holds up his key trait in combat, each time he should've fallen he refused, even when battered and exhausted the suit of armor was forced forward again for another clash. Finally though, the Stonewood's attacks knock him over, combined with the weight of the heavy metals that bind him, and the prince raises his hands with a grin. "I told you not to sell yourself short."

Brianna whoops brightly for the fight, her lips curving into a crooked, easy grin as she looks between the two men. But, she comments to Luca, "I am glad I did not take you on your bet. Who do you have for the next fight?" She gestures lightly between Wash and Aethan.

Lucita has joined the ringside table.

"Prince Gideon." Ian motions Gideon over to him once the Thraxxian Prince leaves the ring. By all rights, he should probably go to Gideon, but he doesn't.

Silas sets his drink down to applaud the victor and his opponent. He then looks to Brianna and Luca expectantly!

"I'm betting on Aethan." Wash says, slipping to his feet. "He's been waiting six years for this moment."

Reese turns her attention to Luca as he speaks. "Oh, I remember that battle." She says in a reflective tone that likely suggests she was there for such.

Wash gets Golden Hart Arena Cutlass from THE GOLDEN HART - Weapons Rack.

Valencia jumps up and cheers loudly, nearly losing decorum and calling out praise for both fighters, "Bravo! So very well fought!," she call, applauding with delight. A sweet by impish smile finds her lips again, "Lord Wash, I adore you sometimes. Truly," she smiles back at Prince Gideon and Lord Graham. "Twas well fought. There is no doubt." Dark eyes find Luca's features, "I do nod suppose that I suggest some of your wager find it's way to assist the Hart and it's charitable work, my sweetest most beloved cousin," she smiles sweetly Luca's way. "We have a new library we are hoping to build and so much support would to well to help us in our endeavors. May I count on you?" she asks, with earnest appeal.

Wash wields Golden Hart Arena Cutlass.

Hands folded at the small of his back, clothes simple but well tailored, Edwyn comes, having heard from outside. But he doesn't seem keen on fighting, just finding a place to observe from.

"I've never tried it, but I've heard plenty of horror stories about men who insisted on wearing armor aboard falling into the water," Aethan answers Luca, then nods toward Reese and adds, "Anything more than leather is certainly...ill-advised." He raises a brow, though, when Wash says who he is betting on. "I'd put my money on Wash, myself. He hasn't spent the better part of the last year running a household back in the islands," he remarks, his tone matter-of-fact.

Luca peers between Wash and Aethan thoughtfully, chewing a little at a dusky lower lip and shaking his head to some internal debate. Eying Aethan intently, he goes on. "Hmm, I don't know what this one here can do, so it's hard one. Going purely off how he moves and keeps balance." Peering to Wash then at the talk of six years, an eyebrow arched up, he snorts and declares. "Fine then, 500 on Aethan. Here's hoping good things come to those who wait! Kick his arse, Aeth!"

He is breathing heavily himself with the exertion of the fight. Graham finally lands a grounding blow but he'll quickly sheath his sword moving over to offer a hand to the man. "It was quite a good match, truly." He says with even tone. If the offered help is taken or not though he'll remain to walk back with the other should he rejoin the crowd.

Valencia turns to smile at Ian, Wash and the others present. "I do not mean to be bold, but it is for charity's sake. Lord Ian, Princess Reese, may I count on you? And you Lord Graham? My Lord Silas? My Prince Gideon?" she nods to Gideon as he comes off the sands

Aethan gets Golden Hart Arena Longsword from THE GOLDEN HART - Weapons Rack.

Luca then distractedly rolls eyes to his cousin and blows her a kiss after. "When have I not been fully in support of you, love? Can't say no to my Northern Fox of a cousin, especially for good deeds."

Reese hmmms softly and looks between the two men. She seems conflicted as well. "I'm vote 500 on Lord Wash." She says in response to her husband. "Lord Wash!" She cries out. Reese then looks upon Valencia. "Of course, I will be willing to help." She murmurs gently.

Aethan wields Golden Hart Arena Longsword.

"Only sometimes, I'm sure." Wash retorts. "The rest of the time you're wondering whether you can hit me in the back of the head and get away with it."

"Are we betting?" Edwyn asks, but apparently no one but himself. He finds himself off to stand near Reese and Luca, gravitating to his peers, his eye on the fight to come. "Mm, who do you think shall triumph, your highnesses?" Now he's asking them.

Gideon stands and gives another friendly nod to Graham before he returns to the group, dusting off his armor as he hears Valencia. Hearing her though he looks across the room to his guards that he'd had back away earlier, giving one a forthcoming gesture and taking a pouch from the guardsmen. He hands itnover to Valencia with a small bow of his head. "You know the Hart has always, and will Always have my support Princess, yoy need only to ask me."

Silas smiles back to Valencia and nods. "I will send a donation your way, and encourage others to visit the Golden Hart. You have my support."

Lucita says, "Few can, or want to resist the Princess." She watches one set of those sparring leave, another arrive."

Reese hmms softly. "I think Lord Wash will win." She is quick to say in response to Edwyn. She then smiles in agreement with Lucita's words. "That is true." Reese murmurs gently.

Wash steps down into the sand tossing back a third drink and setting it on the railing that surrounds the arena. "Alright. This asskicking has been coming a long while. I sailed six hundred miles to find someone to teach me how to let you kick it properly."

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

Ian nods to Valencia. "Always, Your Highness," he tells her. He's still waiting to see if Gideon will come to talk with him, and now Wash and Aethan are entering the ring, dividing his attention even further.

Valencia glances down shyly. "It is always hard for me to ask. I apologize. But is is for good cause," she admits, cheeks flushing. "My ladies, at the risk of being most brazen, would you consider as well? And you, Master Waldemai? Your help and support would be so very welcome, too."

Aethan takes moderate damage.

Wash takes minor damage.

Brianna is still near Reese, leaning so carelessly close to the princess as they occupy the same table. But her fierce gaze is on the fight starting in the ring, watching with the excitement of someone who loves fighting.

Waldemai waves for one more round for the rafters. "Don't fall out, boys and girls...Eh?" When the Princess calls up to him, he's all ears, of course, since he likes having his head on his shoulder. "Of course, your highness," he calls down. "I can't read myself, but the young one should all learn."

Wash takes minor damage.

"Lord Wash it shall be," Edwyn muses. But he doesn't actually wager anything - nonetheless, he appears to pays close heed to the next duel, interest only passing, but he pretends so anyway. "This must be your esteemed husband, Princess," he offhand says to Reese, looking Luca over.

There's a clinical calculation in Ian's electric blue eyes as he follows the fight as it unfolds. Clinical calculation, and, after only a very short time, a slight furrowing of his brow.

Wash takes serious damage.

Wash takes moderate damage.

Aethan takes minor damage.

Wash takes serious damage.

Reese looks toward Edwyn. "Oh, this is my husband, Prince Luca and this is Prince Edwyn." She says, making introductions. She watches the fight at hand, still seemingly quite interested in such.

Wash isn't drunk, but he fights like it. Every attack is intended to be the last, every swing turned into a two handed blow to fell a tree. But the blows don't land, and he leaves himself open over and over again. As a pause develops in the fight, he raises his guard and looks for a chance to reassess. "That's what I thought. Still not even close to a match for you." Wash says with a grin.

Luca's sprawled with an arm around Reese's chairback, leaning forward and waving his rum bottle in vigorous mock-thrusts of blade as he cheers on Aethan's well-defended actions. "Take him out! Should have went for the skirt, Wash! Might have given some more freedom of movement!" It's all good natured shit-talking at least.

"I still think you can get in there." Gideon says to Ian, slipping away from the charity group to lean beside the crippled man. "I once saw a Shav with one leg hop around and kill five of my men, then I had to go kill him because they thought he was some kind of demon, fucking idiots... Nevermind that, the point is, we all have our weaknesses. You need to find a way to work with it." His single eye looks over to the fight, observing it for a few moments. "Hell, you can probably beat Wash about now." He adds, grinning towards Ian.

Valencia offers Waldimai a grateful and gracious smile and gently touches Ian's hand in thanks. Another smile is offered to Luca, her absoloute affection for the dashing duelist prince and favoured cousin clear. "You are all so kind ot support my Hart. Truly. Thank you so much, there is always so many things we wish to do, yes?' The little princes takes a breath, looking over to see Edwyn, Norwood and Malesh appear in the crowd, offering each a warm and welcoming inclind of head and bright smile. Dark eyes are darwn back to fight on the sands and she move to stand beside Graham and Gideon. "Well done, sirs. I quiet enjoyed seeing you match," she say softly, "And thank you, my Prince. That you care for my Hart means much."

"Nothing wrong with fighting in a skirt, or in pink," agrees Brianna brightly, her smile caught on her lips as she peers at the movements of each man. It is only a moment that she draws her gaze away, up towards Edwyn when he joins their table, but then her gaze drags back to the man she just met before, lingering on Aethan.

Ian distracted from the fight, Ian lowers his voice to say a few words to Gideon.

"Ah, the reputed duelist of the Lyceum," Edwyn realizes with a slow blink. He seems impressed, but how much of that is genuine and how much is mere affectation is hard to tell. "Perhaps we may make introductions later." Seeing as Luca is shit-talking, he goes back to watching the fight. More modest are his suggestions. "You have reach on him, sir. Cut his leg."

Aethan enters the arena after Wash, hefting the practice blade and giving a couple of practice swings at the air before taking a defensive stance to better weather the assault that his kinsman starts with. After taking advantages of a couple of openings that the younger man gives him, however, he quickly presses the attack. "Maybe I've not grown as rusty as I'd feared," he admits, before lunging at his opponent again.

Aethan takes serious damage.

Aethan takes serious damage.

2 Kennex corsairs, 3 Iron Guardsmen arrive, following Titania.

Malesh enters the arena area, at least the part of it meant for spectators, and looks around a little. His eyes open wider at first, narrowing then as he sweeps them around at all the people gathered. He tries to get caught up quickly, moving closer to his brother Graham and glancing to the arena proper. "You fought? I hope you represented us well?"

Silas whistles as blows begin to land more heavily between the two combatants. "It's a great match up."

Ian lays a hand on Gideon's shoulder, shakes his head, and says something more.

Gideon tilts his head slightly as Ian whispers to him, frowning slightly as he starts to mutter back.

Reese is still perched at the bar with her now empty mug of beer. She continues to watch the fight, seemingly quite interesting. "Get him Lord Wash!" She cheers, maybe mostly because she best against Luca. She then turns to Edwyn. "Oh, yeah, he gets really int his fights." She adds a moment.

When Wash finally gives up his reckless manner, pursuing the proper footwork, he starts showing some of the training he's learned. He circles constantly, never content to trade strickes in place. "This really hurts a lot more than I want it to." He's bruised significantly by Aethan's blade.

Waldemai leads the rafters in a song. "Oh, a man of Arx/Made a few remarks/That the king found entertaining..."

"Indeed. The type of fight that makes it /fun/ to watch," Brianna calls back to Silas, a laugh catching in her throat even as she winks to the Lord Commander. She adds as Edwyn and Reese speak of Luca: "I believe that we are facing off, next. You will get to see his skills, then."

"No no! Keep your guard up man!" Luca's leaping to his feet, calling out for his man Aethan, sloshing a bit of his dwindled supply of rum about, possibly towards Edwyn. A fact hich he realizes belatedly and, grimacing in embarrassment is adding for the other's benefit. "Sorry about that. I...uh, really don't want to lose twice to my wife tonight! KICK HIS ARSE AETH!" Like _really_ doesn't want to lose. Oh the competativeness of these two. "Nice meeting you though...uh..." yeah, Luca totally missed the man's name, and is too distracted with fight as it is, but at least he tried to make the effort

Waldemai continues with the rest of the verse, "The king said, 'Son/You've got just one/one slip remaining."

He will smile warmly over to the hostess. "Thank you your highness Valencia." Graham comments though he turns at a familure voice. "Ah, brother I did my best at least that is all one may ask. He moves up though to take a seat after the fight which had made him a little winded.

Graham has joined the ringside table.

Titania comes walking into the area of the arena, her ocean blue eyes looking around to see who is here. She has more then just her personal guards with her this evening three Iron Guardsman follow her as well. She is dressed in black leather pants with a black top and her sword is at her side.

Aethan checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 50, rolling 1 lower.

Aethan checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 20, rolling 16 higher.

Aethan remains alive, but close to death.

Aethan falls unconscious.

"Lord Graham was most excellent. His opponent is a very formidable man indeed," Valencia offers to Malesh he arrives. "I have found him to be a most remarkable and excellent representative of your house. He is a credit to you. You are lucky to have him, Marquis," the little vixen offers without a hint of doubt. "Welcome to my Hart, my Marquis. Would you care for a drink and perhaps to spar yourself?" she asks with a bright smile.

Lucita gives a smile to Graham as he joins her. "I must admit that find myself surprised to be enjoying these matches more than had expected."

Silas grins back at Brianna and nods. "Fun to watch, and fun to learn from." And then Wash lands a spectacular blow and Aethan goes down. He cringes slightly, but quickly follows up with applause. "Well struck! And well fought, both of you."

And not a moment too soon! "Well fought! Well fought!" Waldemai calls down from the peanut gallery, the fight ending before the song reaches the parts that are in truly bad taste.

"Prince Edwyn Valardin, your highness." The Oathlander prince blinks another time as Wash inflicts turnabout and Aethan turns out the loser. Shaking his head very slightly, he then adds, completing his introduction, hands princely-light gesturing to his own chest, "I had heard of you, but hadn't the pleasure."

Malesh listens and smiles as Valencia compliments Graham, and he's just thinking about a drink order when he's asked if he'll spar. He starts laughing then, the big booming laughter of a tall man with his head thrown back. "Oh my dear Princess Valencia, unless you offer a duel in maths I'm afraid there is no sparing that would not leave me embarassed."

Reese gives Luca and impish smile that touches her blue eyes. "I won again. It should be an interesting night." She murmurs in his direction. She then cheers. "Good fight!" She exclaims.

Brianna cheers bright, loudly, not afraid to raise her voice in a Northern warcry towards the ring. But then the woman is on her feet, her flame-bright hair catching the light as she turns towards Luca. "Well, Prince Luca, are you ready to win against a woman at least /once/ this evening?" she invites, a mischievious grin on her lips. "I won't ask your wife for her favor, this time."

Tragically, Ian has missed Wash's epic comeback. He's got his hand on Gideon's shoulder and has been pulled into conversation with him. Whatever it is, it must be important to him, if it drew him away from watching his brother and adopted brother finally play out a duel six years in the making.

Graham turns to the table and to Lucita he grins "Sparring can be thrilling, and sometimes simply watching all the fun.. none of the bruising you see." He jokes lightly though he watches the fight and then back to his brother "What brings you to the Arena brother?" he wonders good naturedly.

Valencia cants her head aside, "What an interesting idea, my Marquis. I shall consider such," she nods. "But for now drinks, yes?" The little vixen moves to join the table when Titania is seen. She immediately turns to briefly excuse herself, "My lords and ladies, pray excuse me but a moment. There is someone dear I must welcome, yes?" Without hesitation, the little dark haired princess moves across the floor to welcome Titania with a gentle but affectionate hug, "You, I am so happy to see," she whispers, her voice tinged with near tears. A delicate hand cups Titania's bruised face and a look of sweetest compassion finds Valencia's face, "My poor darling. Come, sit and enjoy drink. I am so glad you are here."

"Gahhh! He started so fine!" Luca laments with an upraised fist to the sky. "Well fought though men! Well fought!" Hanging his head, he moves to toss the coin pouch Waldemai sent over to him onward to his wife, apparently paying out double for her win yet again. He's playing up the disappointment, but at Reese's interesting comment, he's snorting and quipping loudly enough to carry. "Interesting indeed. My bloody jaw is going to cramp I expect!" With that bawdy innuendo about secret bet stakes spoken with Lycene lack of shame, the Champion duelist is laughing and shaking head as he peers at Brianna. "You realize I'm clearly cursed tonight with a bad streak of luck and sure to lose. So get what favors you can from her I say. Make it a good show at least!" That said, Luca's bending down to claim his own favor from Reese, by way of a stolen kiss brief, but hot enough to melt alaericite! With that, he's striding fluidly down towards the sands. And as he does so, he's reaching up to strip off the silk shirt he's wore all night, even in fighting his wife, exposing a lot of bronzed muscle. Distraction unto my enemies! Or something.

Gideon chuckles at whatever Ian says as he looks across thenroom, spotting Titania entering. He lifts his hand up, beckoning her with his pointer and index finger. "Tiana." He calls, just loud enough to be above the general bustle to invite her over to where he and Ian sit.

Lucita laughs softly. "very much enlightening, too, seeing how much you go through to be able to protect the rest of us."

Malesh moves a finger to wipe a little water from his eye after all that laughter. "Ahh, dear brother I came for a drink as I sometimes do, and heard all the excitement was in here tonight." He nods a pleasant excusal to Valencia, the busy host, so that he can carry on with Graham, "There's a lot that must be done in the reconstruction of Cedar Vale, so I was going to speak with Princess Valencia about hosting an event but... well there are so many people here I might just see who's ears I can bend to pass the word of need along."

Luca adds over bare shoulder as he's going down to the sands. "Sorry Eddy, keep being distracted. We'll talk after Red trounces me!"

Reese's cheeks bloom with a blush that almost matches her ribbons as Luca speaks of his jaw. She returns the kiss, brushing her lips briefly against the champion's, lower her lashes and then quickly drawing back. The blush remains.

Wash has learned from a great number of different fighters since coming to Arx, and combines all of their advice in an unpredictable style. He's as surprised as anyone when he stands victorious at the end of the battle. He tosses the replica sword down and offers his hand to Aethan, to help him back to his feet. He calls for another drink as he leaves the arena.

Wash drops Golden Hart Arena Cutlass.

Luca picks up Golden Hart Arena Cutlass.

Luca wields Golden Hart Arena Cutlass.

"Worry not. Enjoy your bout, your highness." Edwyn favors no seat, opting to remain standing, chuckling despite himself at Luca's mention of a cramping jaw. His clear blues trail over Brianna with curiosity.

Aethan drops Golden Hart Arena Longsword.

Brianna picks up Golden Hart Arena Longsword.

Brianna wields Golden Hart Arena Longsword.

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

The young soldier chuckles a little "It is an interesting life, but I wouldnt change it for much of anything." He speaks to Lucita about the soldiers and knights who fight for the people. "For instance, ive been praised for being able to take my lumps and stay on my feet, which sounds odd to others ears." He laughs a little nodding to Valencia. Graham looks back to his brother. "May I not just take my troops there to clean and rebuild?"

Well, Brianna certainly isn't claiming the same type of favor from Luca's wife. The Northern woman moves towards the ring, her own fingers flicking to undo one, two buttons on her jacket teasingly-- But then, no. That's all. She moves to take the longsword, weighing it's balance, unfamiliar given her usual weapon of waraxe. But, she only smiles and curtsies towards Luca. "Your highness, here is to hoping that your luck holds in the current vein," she teases.

Ian seems to have drawn whatever conversation he was having with Gideon to a close. He nods to Titania, and then watches Wash and Aethan leave the ring.

Luca takes minor damage.

It would seem that Aethan got ahead of himself with that comment, however, as he charges in to try to end this long-overdue duel and takes a hard blow for his efforts. He switches back to the same defensive stance he used earlier in the fight after that, but it is not enough to save him, as Wash is able knock him senseless for a short time after a series of parries. When he recovers his senses, the older Kennex approaches his opponent, offering his hand in congratulations. "You've learned well," he then remarks, before clearing the space for the next fight.

Luca takes serious damage.

Brianna takes minor damage.

Titania hugs Valencia tight, "Hello your highness, it is good to see you as well." she says softly then when she hears her name called she looks up spotting who called her, "Give me a few moments my Princess, I need too see who his higness needs." she moves to kiss her cheek and turns to slip away to head over to Gideon and Ian, "Cousin, Prince Gideon." she says to them both.

Malesh nods some, "You might do that Graham, but there's supplies needed as well." He points a finger around, "Man power we have, what we need is to spread the word." His hand comes down and be gives a little bit of a bow of the head to Graham, "With that in mind, I must go do just that..." He toddles off then, approaching Wash and Aethan as they clear the sparing space. "Well fought you two, and quite entertaining I might add." He's all smiles and an extended hand... salesmen. ugg.

Spirit, the Tiny Honey Brown Fox Kit arrives, delivering a message to Silas before departing.

Brianna takes minor damage.

Brianna takes moderate damage.

Wash takes a seat and rests heavily, still breathing shallowly after that exertion. "Good evening to you too... Lord?" Wash isn't familiar with Malesh.

Waldemai is not drunk enough to continue the song. "More ale! More ale!" he calls down.

Brianna takes moderate damage.

Brianna takes serious damage.

Brianna takes minor damage.

Brianna checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 13, rolling 39 higher.

Brianna remains capable of fighting.

Stojan, the assistant, 2 Thrax Guards arrive, following Denica.

Luca takes minor damage.

Brianna checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 23, rolling 26 higher.

Brianna remains capable of fighting.

Valencia nods and smiles, drifting back towards Graham, pausing to offer a smile and nod to Wash and Aethan. "Well done, gentlemen. You make may heart happy with such a showing," she nods to both. "If it pleases you, I think I should offer proper welcome. I am the Princess Valencia. Welcome to my Hart," she smiles, offering Aethan a delicate hand in polite but formal greeting. "You are recently arrived in Arx, yes? I have hear so many things about you and your brother. It is nice to see the face to go with the name, my lord."

Luca takes moderate damage.

Brianna checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 40, rolling 14 higher.

Brianna remains capable of fighting.

Luca takes moderate damage.

Brianna checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 68, rolling 12 lower.

Brianna has rolled a critical success!
Brianna checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 34, rolling 59 higher.

Brianna remains alive, but close to death.

Brianna falls unconscious.

Brianna puts Golden Hart Arena Longsword in THE GOLDEN HART - Weapons Rack.

Gideon stands up, checking over Titania's wounds as she approaches him before giving the small woman a hug. "I'm glad to see you up and out of bed." He says, smiling slightly as he looks to the guards, then back to her. "You really shouldn't be out with just those fools though, I would've come to get you."

Denica takes a little stroll into the Hart, perhaps a little late, but no less enthusiastic and eager to watch the newest showing. She has a sketch pad tucked under her arms, and a graphite stick in her hand, she glances around and considers the surroundings. "Oh, have I missed the fighting? I was hoping for some inspiration for action scenes."

Ian turns all of his attention back to Wash and Aethan when they return. And Valencia as well, when she comes over.

It is a good showing, if someone is looking for a good fight. It is obvious that some of Brianna's style has been learned from Luca, in a familiarity where the two move around each other. But the woman is all warrior and not knight, all Northerner and not Southerner. She fights ferociously, throwing herself fully into the battle. She gets a few blows to begin with, pressing the man, but she quickly tires, and as she tires? The nimble dancer becomes much easier to hit, until she has finally dropped her weapon with a wince, exclaiming, "I yield!" Her flame-bright hair is plastered to her neck with sweat, and the fight has left her breathless.

Spirit, the Tiny Honey Brown Fox Kit arrives, delivering a message to Silas before departing.

"Yes, thank you my Lord," Aethan echoes Wash in addressing Malesh, then takes his hand. Then their hostess for the night comes forward, and he bows to her before taking the delicate hand she offers, "And thank you as well, your Highness, both for your welcome and your compliments. I am recently arrived, as you say, I just got here yesterday in fact. I have visited in the past as well, but it has been some time since then. It is a pleasure to meet you, as well." He then picks up his glass of rum from the bar and takes a seat along with Wash and Ian.

Graham shakes his head looking to the table. "I find the barbs of word and teasing dont sting me as keenly as a blade most of the time at least." He says in regards to the mentioned teasing by Lucita's brother he looks over and smiles to Velencia in return though reciving his wine he'll take a good size drink and also clap for the newly ended fight.

"The reputation is well deserved," Edwyn realizes with a head-tilt, looking once more suitably impressed (though one may find it hard to tell, again, if this is real.) "You made a good showing, my lady," he offers in consolation for Brianna.

Titania returns the hug to Gideon a small smile spreading over her features, "It is alright but a short distance from home and I did not wish to pull you from your event Prince Gideon, but thank you." she smiles looking over to Wash and Aethan. "Hello Cousins." she says then looks to valencia with a smile.

"A better showing than I would have made against Luca Grayson." Wash says brightly then wincing. "Aethan, Ian, Titania and myself, Wash Kennex. We've made something of a beachhead here in the Hart. We shant be easy to repel."

Ian nods to Titania. "Lady Titania, this is my brother Aethan." He's back to his usual calm again; whatever rattled him before seems to have passed with his conversation with Gideon. "Aethan, Lady Titania Kennex." Look at him and his vaguely correct introductions. Fancy.

"Oh trust me, Firebird, it probably will, but one way or another, I intend to have a joyeous dance." The shirtless Lycene duelist quipped just before the battle started with his former student, and what a battle it is. Every bit as much an intensely complicated dance of skill and speed that his fight with his wife was. A practically blurring thing of beauty that at first seems to shift in favor of his fiery-haired opponent in first touch of blade, but which Luca's fighting much more defensively than he did against his wife, carefully marshalling his energy, using only the barest bend and sway to get clear of blade strikes, returning his own only when he sees openings, struck at like a viper's fangs. And yet, even under onslaught, she keeps standing, and by the end of it, they're both probably wiped out and he's glistening with sweat, controlled breath heaving, until that blade finally dropped and she called out, leaving him to slump a bit, eyes still wary and on her, but admiration shining. "Fucking beautifully fought and I was right about how much you've improved! Well done, Bri!" With that, he's huffing, and puffing, and starting back towards the exit from the sands, grinning up to his wife and calling out for all and sundry. "Clearly I only won due to my wife's kiss!" Thus even his win goes to Reese tonight. Oh the jaw ache later.

Luca drops Golden Hart Arena Cutlass.

Spirit, the Tiny Honey Brown Fox Kit arrives, delivering a message to Silas before departing.

Silas has left the ringside table.

Silas has joined the ringside table.

"I should have claimed one of my own," agrees Brianna with a breathless laugh, her gaze sliding towards Reese with a shameless, crooked grin. But it's Edwyn that draws the fiery Northerner's attention with his consolation. Her brow curves upwards in a silent, humored challenge. She questions of Edwyn, "Oh, is that so, your highness? I am so flattered. Which, exactly, hit made it a good showing on my part?"

Malesh smiles to Wash, "Malesh Stonewood, Marquis of Stonewood and spouse of one Ariel of Darkwater." In absence of a handshake from Wash the man takes to clapping his hand Wash's shoulder in a congradulatory fashion instead. Aethan shook though, and Malesh's grip was firm but friendly. He catches up that he and Valencia appear to be in the midst of a group of Kennex, and he smiles all the broader, "Ahh yes, Darkwater is Vassal to Kennex, we're practicaly all cousins here." He seems in good spirits, very positive.

Reese watches with the fight with close attention, seemingly quite interested in such. She cheers as her husband wins the fight. "Yay, Luca the nimble prince!" She calls out. Still Brianna is given a smile as well that touches her blue eyes. "I do tend to be lucky." She says. "And I think my kiss did help you Luca." She adds, more than happy to take credit for his win.

"I don't get this sweaty and winded for just anyone! Trust me, the man's right. That was a damned fine showing." Luca cuts in past Brianna's question of Edwyn, moving a little stiffly to settle his shirtless, sweaty self next to Reese, leaning in for another quick kiss, albeit not quite as metal-melting of one, more sweet. Followed up with a sly murmur and then a glance out to the ring as he calls. "Who is up next? Or am I going to have to go out and let Si beat me black and blue with his fists?"

Composure holding, Edwyn regards Luca for a beat with a measuring look. He offers hence a calm little retort for Brianna, his smile slim, tone pleasant. "It is known across the realm that Prince Luca Grayson has the swiftest feet and cleanest limbs among some of the realm's finest - yet you had managed to strike him nonetheless. That deserves praise, does it not?"

Edwyn tips his head gratefully to Luca, chuckling softly.

"It was a good fight, Lady Brianna, even if you didn't hit him often enough!" Silas chimes in. "You just have something to aspire to."

Fashionably late is probably not actually a thing when it's this late, but from the entryway comes the tall, slightly sober form of Norwood Clement, who is certainly who you want to have around for a night of drinking and fighting, but you might not realize it, and neither would he. He pauses just inside in order to look around, perhaps spotting for anyone he might know personally, though the pickings of that are slim.

Luca just snorts a bit a the swiftest feet and cleanest limbs part, arching a brow to Reese as if waiting for her to point out she kicked his ass not only in the ring tonight but in swimming and footrace too before. But he let's him have his praising of Brianna for her fight, it was certainly worthy of it.

Reese returned Luca's kiss with a brief brush of her lips. She seems to like his kisses, but who can blame her? She then smiles at Edwyn's words. "He is one of the most limber, I agree." She says, not bothering to talk about her wins. She leans into Luca listening to his whispered words and her cheeks get all pink once again.

Brianna's brow remains lifted, but she answers Edwyn with an easy smile, a light tone of her own as she says: "Yes. Prince Luca isn't the only one trained in combat. Those of the North have their own warriors, too." Her deep blue eyes drag over Edwyn, as if weighing and assessing him with that single look, but she only lets that crooked smile flicker over her lips. Then she moves to join Silas, promising him, "Next time. I need to work on not getting /quite/ so tired." She reaches to steal his drink, only for a moment, and lifting it to her lips for a long sip.

Titania smiles to them all, "It is a pleasure to meet you Lord Aethan." she nods her head then moves to rub her face looking to Gideon, "Perhaps coming out was not the best of ideas." she sighs softly looking to Wash and Ian then to Valencia, "Your highness you should come to the Kay and visit some time." she moves to kiss the womans cheek again then looks to Gideon, "I think I want to head back to the Kay."

The crowd cheers as another victor is named and Valencia looks up to see Luca standing as the formidable Brianna yields. The little princess cannot seem to help herself and she cheers brightly for the pair, her expression more than a little proud at Luca's victory. "Gods, I only wish I could be so elegant upon th sands," she whispers quietly to no one in particular. "Such a thing it would be to have such prowess." Another smile finds her face and she nods to Aethan, "I am glad you have found your way here. I hope we will see much of you and your brothers in the Hart in the days to come, my lord. It is a happy thing you are here in Arx now," the petite proprietor of the Hart nods warmly. "If you will pardon me for a little." The little fox offers a polite nod to the Kennex crew, Malesh and Gideon before slipping off to offer Luca another proud hug before joining Graham again. Dark eyes give a little look Edwyn's way, "My sweetest cousin is most excellent. The lady is a beautiful fighter indeed. She is a marvel to watch. Thank you so much for attending, my lady," she offers to Brianna.

Lucita says, "That is good to know, Lord Graham. I expect Luis will be around more if his plans work out.""

"I don't think I'm acquainted with Lady Ariel Stonewood nee Darkwater." Wash admits. "But I'm pleased to make the acquaintance of her husband. Titania! Leaving so soon? You haven't even said hello to Aethan."

"They most _certainly_ do." Luca agrees with an appreciative air that, given his Lycene heritage might be interpretted as double entendre by way he watches the redhead go. Snorting a bit again and shaking his head ruefully, the duelist settles with arm around Reese, eyes turning then to Edwyn again, offering easy nod to the man and saying a little wearily. "Well then, Ed. Belated, but a pleasure to make your acquaintance, even if I hope I haven't dashed any ideas you had in your head about me or my reputation."

Gideon nods to Titania at her request, giving a respectful bow to the Valencia and the other Kennex's. "As you wish then," He says, turning towards Valencia. "I'll try to come by the Hart more, maybe bring the little one to meet you and everyone else. I'll be taking this one home." He directs as he sets his helmet back on to stand beside Titania.

Silas finishes the remainder of his wine and orders a refill. His light mood seems to lighten even further when Brianna joins him at the ringside table. "Athletic conditioning isn't terribly hard to get a hang of. Comes naturally when you duel a lot. I can help you out at the Training Center with it, if you ever need it." He nods in Reese's direction. "The Princess taught me a few short cuts, too."

"Such as whom, my lady?" Edwyn questions in turn, returning Brianna's gaze, at least for the moment. Then he backs off slowly to look to the arena, curious about the next match, and then again at Luca. Now is time for handshakes. "My pleasure, then. I shall have to come by more often."

Denica pulls out her sketch pad, beginning the process of furiously scribbling on the paper as she allows herself to draw in the energy of the crowd, looking around with an eager smile. She's wearing a silk gown, form fitting and slender, ivory and pure. She looks to the others surrounding her and smiles. "So, what did I miss?" she asks anybody that may be nearby. "Anything exciting?"

"Welcome back, your highness." Graham says though he looks over and chuckles "Well we shall have many more interesting conversations then yes?" he grins taking another drink though he looks back "It seems quite popular your meet and greets indeed."

Luca has joined the bar.

Ian has remembered that there is a glass in his hands, and it has rum in it. And thus, for a couple of minutes there, he disappeared entirely from the conversation and focused on said rum. Now he fades back in, and nods to Titania and Gideon when they move to go.

"So far I'm five hundred silver down to ... that one." Wash points upward at Waldemai. "But the one I lost money on, lost money on me. So morally speaking, I've come out even. Possibly a little ahead."

"I wouldn't say no to your instruction, my lord," offers Brianna back easily, her smile warm as she nods to get her own wine when Silas orders his refill. Her gaze slides to meet Edwyn's, lingering there, but she doesn't answer the Oathlander's question. Her lips may tighten a bit, especially given the tumultuous history between their two lands. Instead, she questions of Silas, lightly, "So, who is next," even as she reaches up to start rearranging her sweaty curls.

"As it should be. The Hart is for all of Arx. I am glad to see so many come here," Valencia smiles back, glancing to the others. A slightly sad smile slips into place as Gideon announces departure. "You are going so soon? Promise me you will be back in my Hart soon, and yes, please bring your love and new baby when both are feeling up to visiting," she smiles gently, giving the prince's arm a gently touch. Dark eyes turn to Titania, "And you mend quickly so I might have you back in my company again soon. You are missed," she smiles at the woman, offering her a gentle kiss upon the cheek.

Luca returns Edwyn's handshake with that same relaxed air about him. Even as he was about to say more though, his cinnamon eyes strayed past the Valardin prince to a newcomer to the arena, whom he clearly recognizes by his brighter smirk and sudden carrying voice over the crowd. "Hey Norrie! Come over here. Meet some people!" The 'Norrie' in question would be Sir Norwood Clement, apparently the latest in the long line of poor, poor mangled names.

Reese gives Silas a smile at his words. "It was a pleasure to teach you, just as you have taught me much." She murmurs. She then turns her focus to Denica, giving her a smile of greeting. "Welcome, Princess Denica. It is nice to see you again." Seh says in her direction.

Reese looks over to Brianna. "Did you want to fight me? Or if you are too exhausted, after Luca, I would understand." She says gently in her direction.

Ian catches someone saying Denica's name, and looks in that general direction. He nods, maybe a greeting maybe a silent indication that he's glad to see her back -- it's not really clear which, if any. Either way, he still has rum that needs drinking.

Brianna checked command + teaching at difficulty 10, rolling 1 lower.

The taciturn Oathlander turns his attention toward where Luca is trying to get his attention. He considers pretending not to hear, from the looks of it, but then acquiesces and meanders through the crowd in that direction. His voice, while low, is deep enough to carry through some of the clangor and the sounds of the crowd as he gently corrects, as he ever must, "Norwood," as sort of a general statement to all, then says "Highnesses," in greeting to Luca, and to encompass Reese, who he's met if briefly.

After downing what is left of his glass of rum, Aethan turns his grave face to Titania and says, "Thank you, Brother, for making introductions. It is a pleasure, Lady Titania." He then looks to Valencia again and answers her, "Of course, you have been a gracious hostess. And I am sure you will see plenty of us, now that we have all descended on the city." The elder Kennex manages to not look /quite/ so glum for a moment before she leaves, then reaches for the bottle of rum to see if there is empty yet.

Denica glances up at Reese and smiles winningly, moving through the crowd to make her way to Reese where she addresses her, a bright smile offered as she nods. "Oh yes, I managed to catch the end of the last bout. Your husband is quite a formiddable man. He'd have made a wonderful Thraxian Prince, if I do say so myself. You're lucky to have landed such a winning catch!" She beams, catching Ian's nod with one of her own, an enthusiastic smile shot in his direction.

Does he smirk? He doesn't, face kept carefully neutral when Brianna eyes him. Edwyn handshakes Luca, firm but not excessively, though any other words exchanged for him would be taken away by him noticing Norwood. "Sir." Someone greets Denica - apparently a familiar name too - and bows in her direction. "Your highness. It is nice meeting you again."

Waldemai jollies around with the other commoners in the cheap seats, but the implication...nay, the mere hint...of another bout sets them off. "Fight! Fight! Fight!" Of course, this ignore the ordinary brawls taking place in the stands.

"I never say no to a fight, darling," Brianna counters warmly, her words all light with humor. She stretches to her feet again, ruffling her fingers against Silas's hair lightly. "For luck," she offers the Lord Commander, before she moves to the ring. "And in any case, why don't we make it a matched pair of trampelling my ego back down?"

Reese lifts her gaze to Norwood, giving him a gentle a smile that touches her blue eyes. "Greetings, Sir Norwood. Nice to see you again." She murmurs. Reese then turns her attention to Denica. "He is quite the man. I consider myself lucky." She murmurs. She then hears Brianna's words and rises to her booted feet.

Reese wields Destiny, a high quality mace.

Brianna wields wicked wildfires one-handed waraxe with deer hide wrapped handle.

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

Silas nods to Brianna, and smiles to Reese. "It's been amazing to see how much you've grown. You deserve every praise." The blinks when Brianna ruffles his shaggy and still slightly sweaty mop of hair. "Probably should have waited for it to dry!" He jests back. "And I'm not -terribly- lucky, but..." It was flattering nevertheless. He looks on with interest when Brianna and Reese enter the fighting ring.

Waldemai calls out, "Five hundred on Princess Reese! Help me earn back my donation to the library!"

Denica glances at Reese and Brianna, beaming excitedly. "Oh? Are you going to duel? Oh, I bet you win, Princess Reese!" Denica praises, raising her sketch pad and drawing a series of outlines on paper as she studies the fighters with an intense enthusiasm. Her attention moving towards Edwyn, inclining her head in his direction. "So good to see you again, Prince Edwyn!" she calls out. "Who do you think will win?"

Lucita looks at the men at her table, a charming smile given. "Lovely as this is, watching the spars, talking with you, it is time I start back home." She rises, approaches Valencia and those near whom she stands to say. "Another wonderfully successful evening, you always handle these so well." Unable to resist, she turns to watch the spar in progress before stepping out.

"Is no one going to bet on me?" exhales Brianna with a laugh, but she shakes her head carelessly. She only smiles to Reese, saluting her lightly.

"So, Ian, who has been teaching you to fight?" Wash asks. "I know you've gotten better by leaps and bounds."

Luca's drawing his gaze from Norwood, who apparently already knows some of those he was going to introduce him to, instead taken up with distraction at Brianna and Reese potentially going for a spar. "Ooh, now _this_ should be sexy. I missed their last! Fight well, beautiful ladies!" Well, that's one way to cheer without having to outright pick a side, though really it's gonna get him in trouble if he doesn't root for his wife soon probably.

"I think I will .. mm, I will settle on Princess Reese," Edwyn seems to make up his mind, drifting over to stand close to Denica and watch to see from which angle she shall depict them. "What do you think?"

Valencia can't help but chuckle a little at Waldemai's words, dark eyes flashing a smile. "Thank you so much for attending again, my sweetest Lady Lucita. I am so glad you were able to join me. Perhaps we will see you and your bother tomorrow?" she inquires with a little encouraging nod. The little princes smiles again to Dencia and then to Norwood, though she has yet to be introduced to the man herself. Smiling back to Lucita, she offers a gentle hug and kiss to her cheek. "You will get home safe, yes?"

Norwood exchanges an array of titles in place of more verbose greetings. Sir, Sir, Doctor, Prince, Doctor, Senator. The amount going on perhaps has him wishing he'd picked a quieter pastime tonight, but he's here now, and so goes about procuring a drink before turning to watch the spar to take place.

Catching Denica's comment, Luca also adds her way with a grin. "I would normally put all money on Ribbons, hands down, but there was an interesting bout the other day at the rite of gloria where she fell. Armor made a difference probably though, this should be much more interesting, not to mention beautiful display of skill on both sides." With that commentary given, he's putting two fingers to lips again to whistle shrilly for the ladies.

Reese heads over the rink and reaches for her steel weapon rather than her silvery pink one. Reese looks toward Brianna. "Oh, they would be a fool not to bet on you. I think you might possibly win." She says in the redhead's direction. "May Gloria be with us both, once again." She says. Reese seems to take every spar so seriously.

Malesh explains the lack ot Ariel to Wash, "She's very heavy with child at the moment, but I'm sure she'll be out and about socializing again and showing off the baby just as soon as she's up to it." He's intruding on family businees it seems though, with all the Kennex's catching up, and he's only distant sort of related through marriage. "Well enjoy the boughts all, I've got to say some more hellows before I say my goodbyes."

Ian is quiet for a moment when Wash asks the question. His answer is level, but it's once again more of an enforced calm than a genine one. "Duke Telmar, for some of it. I've been getting practice where I can. It's been hard finding people who'll press me. I eventually started going to Duke Grimhall. That's why I'm training his new recruits, now."

"Of course Lord Stonewood. We can share battle stories after you've had your child. I just had my first this year." Wash says with a pleasant smile. "Telmar, isn't the Telmar manor over in Valardin territory? It has a obstacle maze of some sort, does it not?"

Brianna takes serious damage.

Denica nods to Edwyn. "Yes, I think I agree with you," she says with an enthusiastic nod. The sketch is a rather rough one to start with, and likely will be completely redone at a later time, but she's capturing the stance of the two women clashing swords, big ideas, little details having been left to the wayside in the favor of brevity. "While Lady Brianna is a skilled fighter, I can tell, Princess Reese is one of the most capable fighters I've ever seen." She says with a little smile, dipping her head to Luca. "It is as you say. These things can disappoint, or surprise. Both are skilled fighters in their own right."

Lucita reassures Valencia. "I should have an escort awaiting me, Thank you." She returns Valencia's hug and friendly kiss on the cheek." Lord Ian, Lord Washburn, Lord Aethan Kennex, may you enjoy the remainder of the evening. The words are spoken cordially.

Reese takes minor damage.

Lucita has left the ringside table.

"Quite," Edwyn concurs. He says little following that, chin lifted, but still tracking the fight.

2 Kennex corsairs, 3 Iron Guardsmen, Gideon leave, following Titania.

"THAT'S IT, RIBBONS! KEEP AT HER!" Luca's bellowing out delightedly at the ferocious first strike to finally land amidst a grandly beautiful display of combative motion between the women. Unable to hold back his support for Reese after so fine a hit. After that, he's on his feet, cheering the blows, landing or (more often) missed.

Ian downs his glass of rum and, finding the bottle empty, motions to the bartender to bring more Maelstrom. "The Gauntlet." Ian nods to Wash. "It's worth seeing, if you haven't."

Reese takes minor damage.

"I haven't seen it. But we should all take a moment to go over there. f yoou think we can benefit from the training." Wash says.

Brianna takes moderate damage.

Norwood is perhaps a little overwhelmed by the goings on and takes a sip of his drink before noticing Valencia looking toward where he is and he gives a polite nod, racking his brain for a title and then seeming to hear something over his shoulder, looking that other direction before greeting her as "Princess," though not really introduced, so saying little else.

Valencia blushes at the mention of the Gauntlet. Dark eyes lift to offers a smile to Norwood as he nods her way, moving gracefully to formalling make introductions. "Good evening, my lord. I do not think we have formally met yet. I am the Princess Valencia. Welcome to my Hart, sir. I am so very pleased to meet you," she smiles with an offer of a delicate hand.

Reese takes minor damage.

Luca's distractedly offering over bare shoulder between his cheering. "Val, This is Norrie. Err, Sir Norwood Clement. Nor, my beloved cousin Princess Valencia Velenosa." Holy crap, Luca's capable of introductions? His distraction before this seems to have precluded those sort of things. "HOLD OUT, RIBBONS! WAIT HER OUT!"

Reese takes serious damage.

Ian sits at the bar with Wash and Aethan, dividing his attention between an uncharacteristically guarded conversation with Wash and the glass of rum he's pouring from the bottle on the bar that the three Kennex are sharing.

Brianna takes serious damage.

Reese takes serious damage.

Brianna has rolled a critical success!
Brianna checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 18, rolling 24 higher.

Brianna remains capable of fighting.

Waldemai takes up the song where he left off, bearing in mind that between ale and duration "where he left off" is a pretty vague concept. "The prince said, "What?"/What say, old sot?"/"Your words, sir, are defaming."

Brianna checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 31, rolling 40 higher.

Brianna remains capable of fighting.

Norwood lowers his drink and says "We've not, your highness." He takes the hand and observes polite gestures, then is about to speak again when Luca gets right in there and saves his sense of propriety. "Yes. That. Not the Norrie part," he says, in a way that is ever so serious, but slightly indulgent, like a long-suffering minder to basically everyone. "I am pleased to make your acquaintence."

Reese takes minor damage.

Brianna checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 34, rolling 17 higher.

Brianna remains capable of fighting.

Brianna checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 45, rolling 5 higher.

Brianna remains capable of fighting.

Denica changes pages on her pad, starting a new drawing of the same scene, a different perspective and time, she gets excited as she continues to draw. "This is something!" she says. "Gods... Lady Brianna might just manage to make it work!"

Reese takes minor damage.

Silas whoops and hollers as the fight goes on and Brianna keeps at it in spite of her apparent fatigue!

Brianna has rolled a critical success!
Brianna checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 81, rolling 15 higher.

Brianna remains capable of fighting.

Reese takes minor damage.

Valencia smiles up at Luca and grins, pressing her lips together to try to not grin too much, though her eyes glimmer as she turns back to Norwood, "I am so very pleased to meet you. You are new to our city, yes?" she asks with a gentle nod.

Reese checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 26, rolling 37 higher.

Reese remains capable of fighting.

Brianna checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 106, rolling 56 lower.

Brianna checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 65, rolling 1 higher.

Brianna remains alive, but close to death.

Brianna falls unconscious.

"Ian, Wash, it was good seeing you again, but I fear between the beating and the rum, my head is beginning to spin just a bit. I should probably get going. But please, enjoy the rest of the night," Aethan says to the other Kennex at the bar with him before rising and beginning to make his way out of the Hart, waving at their hostess along the way.

Waldemai cheers for both the fighters. "Well fought! Well fought!"

Ian stirs when Aethan gets up to go; he starts to slide off the barstool, but again... doesn't. Instead he devotes grim attention to his drink.

Obviously excited, Edwyn sighs when the spar is decided for good. He exhales, not having realized he had held his breath, and clasps his hands together. "Well fought," he calls.

Norwood's smile is brief but present, a curl at the corner of his mouth. "I don't expect that I'm new at much anything, though I don't roam around Arx all that much. I serve House Laurent as the Sword of Artshall," he explains, and then seems a bit unsure of what else to say. Small talk is not Norwood's defining skill.

Both women tire as they press at each other, and Brianna fights as she always does, with the intensity and ferocity of a Northern warrior. She is nimble, dodging and pressing where she can. It is close at the end, perhaps, but she yields first, calling out, "Yield, yield!" first. But she is all grins and bright, intense adrenaline as she bows to Princess Reese. "Next time, maybe. If people keep betting against me, at least, to drive me to try my hardest."

"Sounds good to me." Wash agrees. "At the Kay, or aboard ship. Just let me know where you are staying."

Reese seems quite intensely focused on this fight. She has an extreme athletic grace and is very bit as nimble as her husband. The fight is a long one with Brianna and Reese dodging blow after blow form each other. It goes longer than most spars. as they start to wear down, Reese is hit several times and she looks quite banged up. When Brianna yields, Reese is quick to stop fighting. The Grayson princess is honorable like that. She even checks her over to make sure the redhead is okay. "You are amazing, Firebird." She says in her direction.

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

Denica applauds wildly as Brianna goes down, she cheers and smiles. "What a show! You're both a credit to your fealties. You should be proud!" Denica beams, and looks over her sketches with a smile and a nod. "Those are going to come out quite nicely I think," she says with a grin. "Thank you for the inspiration!"

Aksel has been watching most of the fight from the crowd of onlookers. By the half drank glass in his hand he seems to have been there for quite sometime. As the match comes to its conclussion Aksel makes his way towards the bar finishing up his glass of whiskey to get a refill.

"Firebird? Is this going to be a thing, now?" Brianna questions lightly, her gaze sliding towards Luca to include him in the question before she looks back to his wife. "Ribbons, Nimble, and Firebird?"

Silas doesn't seem like he's disappointed at the result at all. "Wonderful fight, Lady Brianna! You've made Princess Reese work for it." He grins wryly. "And I doubt she minds." He doesn't dare ask what his byname may end up being... Unrelenting Tincan?

Luca's bellowing cheers for his wife and the ensuing shrill whistles are positively ear-splitting, but the duelist seems thoroughly energized by a phenomonal match. Not quite so much that he's missing Norwood's description of himself, saying over shoulder again. "He's being modest. He's got a lot of talent actually. I've been helping him with footwork, but he's a testiment to Laurent and the sword." After which, he's turning back to call out to the women in the arena. "You're both amazing! That was a fantastic bout! What do you say, Si, want to round it out with some fisticuffs? That showing made me brave enough to give it a go, even knowing the black and blue outcome for myself!"

Valencia smiles and nods. "I am doubly glad you have found your way to my Hart, then, Sir Norwood," the little vixen smiles graciously. "I see you know my beloved cousin and his lady princesss, but do you know others here? Have you had pleasure of meeting Lord Graham, or Lord Ian and Lord Wash, perhaps? Lord Silas as well. So many good people here to meet tonight. I would be glad to offer introduction."

Ian looks up when he hears his name mentioned and nods to Norwood. "Lord Ian Kennex." It's a dry introduction. More a statement of his name than anything else.

"Whitebird, no?" Edwyn suggests to Silas with mild levity, well familiar with the Lord Commander.

Silas looks up when Luca challenges him to the brawl he asked for earlier. He gulps down the remainder of his drink and hops to his feet. "Sure! I think you'll do better than you think." He begins to unstrap his pieces of armor and drop them in a pile on the foor, leaving him in his gambeson and leggings. "But I will be merciful in this regard." He quirks a brow at Edwyn's suggestion. "Huh. Well, I like it."

"Firebird. Sounds like an ominous nickname. Someone might decide to set you on fire." Wash teases. "At least with my nickname, worst that might happen to me is a nice bath."

Norwood nods and says "Thank you, highness," to the extended welcome, and then his head inclines toward Luca, saying "It's true. Apparently old dogs can, in fact, learn just fine. And Princess Reese was good enough to show me a few things at the training center." From the way he moves his shoulder, those things might have had lingering reminders, even with armor. "I don't believe I am familiar," he says to the names, and when Ian introduces himself, he says "My lord," in acknowledgement and greeting. So many nobles around.

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

Reese turns her attention to Denica now and she has a smile for the Thrax princess. "Thank you, Princess Denica." She says, seemingly flattered by her words and her attention. She even tries to get a peek at her picture. She then turns to Brianna. "I might." She says in response to her words, having another smile. "I am exhausted." Reese admits a moment later. She smiles towrad Norwood. "If you need further training just ask." She murmurs. She then tries to give Luca's cheek a kiss, well before the fight breaks out.

"Well at least I won't break my fists on your tin can certainly!" Luca quips wrly as he's starting down towards the arena in continued shirtless state, pausing to snag another heated luck-kiss from Reese on the way by and cast Brianna a wink with a light. "I _like_ the firebird nickname. But blame Ribbons. She called you that first." With that, he's off to get pummeled without a blade. Why did he get amped enough to agree to this again? Well, at least it'll make an amusing show probably.

Waldemai shouts out, "One thousand on Luca! If he wins I get my silver, and if he loses I get to see him beaten up for taking my silver!"

"One of these days, a helm wrought in a hawk's shape may do you well, my lord," recommends Edwyn. Then it begins, the flail of unskilled brawling, and he watches with arched brows.

"I will blame her, indeed," promises Brianna, a laugh at the edges of her words like velvet. But she doesn't move to rejoin the tables. Her gaze drags over Silas and Luca as they move to wrestle, but she moves towards the exit, slipping away despite the bright color she makes in the crowd.

Silas cracks his knuckles as he approaches the ring. Because it's the manly thing to do before you flail aimlessly at your opponent. "You're one of the very few men in this city who is shorter than me so... maybe I have a reach advantage." Barely.

Waldemai calls out, "Last chance...Who will bet on Baron Silas?"

Aksel makes his way back towards the watch the fisticuffs about to break out. He takes a drink from his whiskey and looks towards Waldemai, conisdering the wager. "I'll take that bet." He says with a nod of his head.

"Wait, can I bet against myself and win even more of your money, Wald?" Luca calls from down in the sands, fists raised with clearly no real formal training in the least, but his dancing footwork keeping him moving initially as he tries to eye his opponent and get a feel for how he moves like this. To the reach comment, he's quipping back the age old. "It's all in how you use your length I suppose, isn't it?"

Silas takes minor damage.

Reese rejoins the bar and settles in to watch the fight with interest. She waves toward Brianna as she starts toward the door.

Wash turns his attention to Denica Thrax. "Hey there Princess. Are you here to swing a blade or just drink yourself silly?"

Waldemai waves to Aksel, another commoner. "And bring him an ale," he calls. "He's not drunk enough."

"Farewell," Edwyn may add Brianna's way, animosity or no. He looks up consideringly at Waldemai on the rafters. "Five hundred."

Denica smiles as she watches Luca move off to take his own brawl. She leans in towards Reese. "So, would it be impolite to ask if I might paint Prince Luca sometime?" she asks. She blinks in surprise as she's addressed by Wash, blinking uncertainly. "Oh! There are drinks to be had? Shit, I forgot about those! No, I don't fight, I'm an artist, so I'm trying to commit some grisly scenes to memory for future works I might do!"

Silas takes minor damage.

The petite dark haired princes glance to Waldemai and chuckles as he calls out to Luca. There is a little shake of had and a sweet smile to Graham and then to Norwood again, "I would be glad to make proper introductions so you would know more in the city, if it pleases, Sir Norwood. And I do hope we will see you in my Hart more often. You are so very welcome here, yes?" she smiles again, turning to watch the latest match. "Gods, I have missed seeing my sweetest cousin on sands. It reminds me when I was younger. Gods, I how I adored watching him fight." There is another smile for Denica, "And welcome to you as well, your highness. I have not seen you since dinner at the Velenosa estate. You are much recovered i hope?" she asks with a little wince and a smile. Glancing to the bar again, Aksel is spied and the little vixen's eyes light up.

Silas takes minor damage.

"I don't mind if you paint him. So long as he doesn't mind." Reese says toward Denica. "Although you might have me wanting the painting." She murmurs. She then turns to watch the fight once more. "This is quite close."

Silas takes minor damage.

Luca takes minor damage.

Luca takes minor damage.

Aksel raises his whiskey towards Waldemai but does not say no to the ale being brought to him. He turns his gaze towards the fight.. dear gods what the hell is going on down there.. his brows slowly lift and he downs his whiskey, "Definately not drunk enough to watch this."

Luca takes minor damage.

Silas takes minor damage.

Silas takes minor damage.

Luca takes moderate damage.

"This is not as grisly as you might hope." Wash says. "More bruised egos than bruised flesh tonight."

Luca takes minor damage.

Luca takes minor damage.

Luca takes minor damage.

Silas takes minor damage.

Luca takes minor damage.

Silas takes moderate damage.

Silas takes minor damage.

Luca takes moderate damage.

Silas takes minor damage.

Luca takes minor damage.

Luca takes minor damage.

Luca takes minor damage.

Luca takes minor damage.

Luca takes moderate damage.

Silas takes moderate damage.

Luca checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 5, rolling 64 higher.

Luca remains capable of fighting.

Luca checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 10, rolling 65 higher.

Luca remains capable of fighting.

Luca checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 23, rolling 29 higher.

Luca remains capable of fighting.

Silas takes minor damage.

Luca checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 33, rolling 30 higher.

Luca remains capable of fighting.

Luca checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 44, rolling 15 higher.

Luca remains capable of fighting.

Silas takes minor damage.

Luca checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 47, rolling 22 higher.

Luca remains capable of fighting.

Silas takes minor damage.

Luca checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 55, rolling 8 higher.

Luca remains capable of fighting.

Luca checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 61, rolling 4 higher.

Luca remains capable of fighting.

Silas takes minor damage.

Luca checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 85, rolling 26 lower.

Luca checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 48, rolling 44 higher.

Luca remains alive, but close to death.

Luca falls unconscious.

Waldemai laughs. Yeah, he's that drunk. "Well fought! Well fought!" he calls, as he sends his losses down to Aksel. "What a great night o gambling!"

Aksel hitches a thumb towards Valencia, "You can donate to the Hart," Aksel says towards Waldemai. Then he downs his ale.

He hadn't shaken hands, but Edwyn nonetheless seems elated he had made the right call this fight.

Denica glances over from Reese to smile over towards Valencia. "Oh, I'm far better, I assure you," she says. "It was an interesting evening. You Lycene's play the most interesting games. Thank you for having me at your establishment, it's a wonderful place you have here," she says, looking back to Reese. "Well, I certainly wouldn't have him doing anything too overt without both of your permission. For art, of course!"

Norwood lifts his drink to his lips briefly, watching the 'fisticuffs' match, while paying attention to Valencia's words and making note of those she points out. "That would be much appreciated, highness," he says in his customary low tone, trying to step such as to be out of the way of impeding conversations with Denica and such.

In what can only be described as one of the saddest 'brawls' in Arvum history, Silas and Luca vicously go at each other with their fisticuffs and violently assault the air around them for a good twenty minutes before their fists finally find each other. And it only gets marginally better after that. Silas does seem to have a marginally better sense of where to throw his punches, and gradually tires Luca out until he just can't stand any more -- either from embarrassment or fatigue, who knows. Silas triumphantly raises his fist in victory.

"That was a sad sad thing to watch." Wash says. "I think the victor in this case is simply the one that remains standing." Wash tosses back his fourth cup of rum. "Porter should have stayed for this bit."

"Not sure there -was- a victor," Ian mutters. "Porter would have loved it." He wasn't watching most of the fight, though.

It is...well, brutal frankly. Two men beating eachother sensless, one with practically no skill at all in his flailing, relying on brute physicality hidden in those lean, iron-corded muscles, and doing surprisingly well at first for it. All that speed to dodge blades works well for dodging fists. But once the fatigue starts to set, it just got ugly, with a lot of bruising back and forth, some clinches that leave Luca unable to rely on his speed as well, and yet a stubborn refusal to call it until Silas has lain him out flat with a bloody nose. Down on the ground, stunned for awhile, then too caught up trying to breath past his heaving exaustion to say anything. When breath enough is there though, Luca's laughter rings out from the sands and he's letting out a low whistle then groggily calling out. "Okay Ribbons, pay off Wald and get Giu to come help me totter home. I think that's about it for me!" Yes, because that kind old skinny as a skeleton Lycene man is going to be able to lift the duelist prince. "Fantastic fight Si, but fuck me I need to learn to throw a punch someday."

Tiring of the public eye hence, Edwyn finds his way to the exit at the end of the bout, he too wandering away not long after.

Wash fishes out a stack of gold coins and puts it on the bar next to him. "Wald is it? These are for you." He's getting ready to leave too.

The little fox nods graciously and makes an effort to introduce Sir Norwood as opportunity arises. Aksel's offer draws her attention and she smiles and blushes a little, "Thank you, you are so very kind to me, Missere Aksel, in truth, Master Waldemai has bee most generous already, though I would not say no to more help for the Hart's task, if it is affordable and it pleases. Your help is aways so very welcome," she smiles gently to the Northman. Glancing up Waldemai's way she offers him a gentle smile, "Thank you again, Master Waldemai. Your support is so very much appreciated in this. I am so glad you wish to see way to helping others read in our Hart." The little princess turns her eyes to the sands once gain and she shakes her head at the battle below until the victor rises in the form of Silas.

Reese winces when she sees how bruised up Luca is. She heads over his direction, but she doesn't seem too upset and Silas even gets a smile from the princess. "Well done." She murmurs softly. "Pay him off? How much do you owe him?" Reese asks. She even hovers around Luca for a bit, getting him help.

Silas offers Luca a hand up and grins. "Well done, Prince Luca. If you ever -do- learn how to throw a punch, I suspect I will be very sorry if we ever do this again." As it was, he looks pretty bruised and beaten himself! He looks over his shoulder, at the assembled crowd. "Apologies for any lost bets. It could have went either way!"

Waldemai is handed some coins for some reason he might have remembered if he wasn't drunk as...well, just say it, drunk as a lord. "Thank you, m'lord," he say, surprised.

Valencia winces a look Luca's way and moves to offer him a gently hug. "Your poor face," she sighs and smiles offering a light kiss upon his cheek and then turning to hug Reese goodby as well. "It was lovely so see you, my sweetest Luca. Come back to my Hart soon. I have something to ask you, yes?"

Ian finishes off his drink and nods to Wash. "I'll see you later," he says before, yes, at last getting to his feet again.

Luca's blinking a little hazily, clearly foggy after that beating, but he lets Silas give him a hand up, and ends up just saying to Reese. "Uh...ask Wald. I'm sure he's trustworthy!" After which, swaying on his feet, he gives Silas a hearty slap on the shoulder. "Good match. Thanks for the reminder." What reminder he means by that isn't clear as he's trying to walk and nearly falling over, Giuseppe rushing forward to actually try to help his Prince and employer off the sands. He'll get escorted out, kissing Val on the cheek and taking Reese's help if she gives it. Question is, will she still make him pay his jaw-cramping debts tonight?

Gerard, a secretary leaves, following Brianna.

Wash is overheard praising Valencia for: For starting and excellent tradition. Long live the sip-and-spar!

Ian makes his careful way out, watching his feet the whole time.

Ian has left the bar.

"It could have," Aksel agrees with Silas with a nod of his head, "But it didn't." Aksel looks at the coin shoved into his hands and gives a shrug sending it along its way to wherever donations like to go. He watches as the crowd starts to thin out.

Luca has left the bar.

Silas moves to recollect his armor, but doesn't put it back on. He bows to Valencia. "Thank you for this fine event, Princess Valencia. I will undoubtedly return." He then proceeds to amble towards the exit.