The day is bright and clear, and the acreage at the back of Deepwood Manor has been set up with cross-barred wooden poles upon which people might rest their birds. A significant portion of space has been cleared for the contests, and a few young servants standby with both the ground game and game birds in little cages, waiting to be released. Other servants circle with food and drink for the humans present, with some standing by with covered buckets of raw meats for the raptors as might be requested.

Samantha has Coquette, her owl, at rest on her shoulder, with her falcon Jynx hooded and held in reserve on a perch just outside the manor's mews.

(OOC: We're going to keep this simple. Straight up Animel Ken rolls for the two competitive events with the top two in each category having a roll off.)


A falconry event would draw out the bird prince from his lair of hiding! Not that he was hiding but the point being he had been cooped up for far too long. Aiden strides next too Silas in a livey orange and gold attire with a darkening pant and boots. He's wearing his glove for falconry, presently the said bird who perches there upon has been loosed and allowed free in a sudden lift of arm and white feathers. The gyrfalcon is swift and soon rides the air currents high above and doing loose circles over the venue grounds. Sterling silver eyes flash toward Silas before turning toward the beaming smile aimed at him by the Marquessa, a timid smile no less returned, as his arm makes certain to keep Silas reeled in, "Nothing could possibly keep me away from such an event, unless of course, it were a griffon." A light tease as he offers, "It's good to see you Marquessa and a pleasure to partake today." He nods to Silas, "I do, my cousin, Her Grace, will offer fine competition... and ohh look, Prince Edain has come." He will greet them if they look before his face warms from the peck to his cheek.

Edain bows his head to Samantha, "Marqueesa, it is lovely to see you as always. I hope that the day finds you well." He looks to Lark again then and says, "I think that is an excellent idea. Tea sometime soon then? We can catch up about...." And just as Edain thinks he's managed to pass off Roland's proclivities the Great Horned Owl takes wing and lands on a table or a chair, or anything near Silas where he can get his attention and 'whoot' happily at him. Clearly Roland remembers the kind knight who used to let him come and catch all the delcious mice in his carpentry shop.

Aletta, a Bird of Prey arrives, following Leola.

Shard arrives alone, at a quiet stalk. She's brought no bird with her, so the obvious assumption would be that she's simply here to watch. Her eyes are faintly narrowed, and as she moves through the grounds her gaze flicks from one person to the next, studying each in turn.

Waldemai comes in for to watch the birdies. He snatches his head from his head in a mar of respect to all the important people present.

Rymarr departs from the innards of Deepwood manor with his usual ground-eating marching pace. One hand rests atop the pommel of the blade worn high on his left side and the Marquis appears more prepared for some unscheduled battle than an exhibition on birds of prey. Armored as per usual, the Marquis has at least gone to the great effort to not wear his helmet for the affair. That resides tucked beneath his arm, pinned in against the left side of his cuirass. He offers a polite dip of his chin to various figures gathered, though he remains his usual stern self as each silent greeting is offered with the customary grim cast to his expression. He's without a raptor of his own and judging by the manner in which he watches many of the birds, he seems as fascinated by them as only the truly ignorant can put on display. Which is to say with a detached, curious interest.

Silas, for his part, seems to treat the great horned owl as though he was interacting with an old friend. He turns towards the familiar great horned owl when he 'whoot's at him and smiles to him. "Long time no see, Roland," he greets warmly, and looks over to Edain. "Good luck, Your Grace. I know you and Roland will be formidable competition." He nods firmly to Aiden. "I let Roland hunt the mice in my shop, once. He's a good bird," Silas explains.

Cirroch walks into the backyard wearing a crisp white silk shirt and coat, contrasting with his mahogany skin, and crimson red pants. He has Princess Sasha on his elbow, his far arm folded in front of himself holding her hand possessively. As they enters the grounds he reaches into his belt and pulls out a small bottle and hands it to her as he says something quietly.

Leola keeps her left arm raised, Aletta perched lightly upon her wrist, and quietly studying the many and varied animals on display. She smiles slightly to those she knows, and drops a small, demure curts, primarily to Edain, settling quietly out of the way

Jurn shifts his hazel eyes across the attendees as they arrive, lowering a gloved hand before the red-tailed hawk and emitting a low, sharp, whistle as the hawk perches atop his fingers. It emits a shrill, some would consider unnervingly sharp call by splitting its beak and rustles its feathers a bit, canting its head left and right to survey the scene. Jurn himself seems as if to watch Rymarr as he enters, with a handsome dip of his head, though remains having not engaged in any talk. He seems utterly content to stand ready by the bannisters of the terrace.

Sasha takes the offered bottle as she listens to the whisper, her smile only brightening and she softly kisses upon his cheek before whispering into his ear as she put the bottle into her small clutch.

Joslyn arrives with Delilah in tow, an arm wrapped affectionately around her waist as she watches the display. She allows Delilah to lead her to any seating as she leans against the taller woman.

Esoka enters, sans bird, though she looks about eagerly at those on display. Rymarr is flashed a toothy smile as she passes him, and Samantha is offered a bow. "Marquessa. Lord Rymarr. I've been looking forward to this. I don't hunt with birds often, but I always enjoy seeing it done."

"If those who wish to compete are ready to begin, we'll be having the flying prey competition first. Three pigeons will be released and the first three birds to acquire their prize will then have a fly-off for a single pigeon. The same rules will follow for the land prey, and we'll be releasing rabbits for those." Samantha explains the rules of the up-coming competitions, adding, "If anyone wishes to present their birds on display, or have a falconry related topic they wish to talk about, please let me know and we'll arrange the time. Does anyoe have questions, before we begin?"

Lark's unreadable gaze traces Roland's flight before it returns to Edain. She tips her chin, promising, "I will make the time." She reaches up to scritch at Griffon's neck, who chirrs happily even with his hood firmly in place, as she sweeps a look over those that arrive. A study lingers on Aiden and Silas as they arrive together, watching them, before she draws her attention back to Samantha as she explains the rules.

Delilah quietly makes her way through the Deepwood Manor, and alongside her is Joslyn. Leaning in to whisper towards Joslyn, she murmurs, ".. This is the first time I've been here, even though we both live off of Triumph Plaza." Casting a gaze across the gathering, she offers anyone who meets eyes with her a faint smile -- And those that do take a peek at her would notice that she arrives without a feathered companion.

Shard finds a spot out of the way to stand. She folds her arms lightly over her chest and continues to watch things with a narrow, guarded expression.

Spirit, the Tiny Honey Brown Fox Kit have been dismissed.

Aiden's eyes are shifting wildly, the young man laughing quietly as his eyes float between bird to bird, not necessarily face to face! "Roland, nice to meet you!" He says to Edain's Great Horned Owl, "I'm certain we have far too many mice in the Menagerie. You heard about how some got out, once yes?" He looks back to Silas and seems to shake his head a little, confused, before he props himself up there and swivels his gaze about. "Princess Sasha!" He sends her a wave through the crowd, though he's still arm holding Silas so the man can't get abandon him yet. Although his attention flicks back to Samantha, his fingers tightening as his attention flickers to the caged pigeons. He exhales once then nods, as if someone were talking to him. "Baron Archibald will do well. He's eager for practice. It's practice. There's a great pigeon threat anyway..." he murmurs. He does offer louder for Samantha to hear, "I can help teach anyone with their skills after, should they like!"

Roland preens a bit, as if pleased that Silas remembers him and so he takes wing and promptly lands on Edain's left arm. This is right as he is telling Lark, "Yes, Tea and talking about trade, I think we have some old trade deals that we should revisit..." He looks at Roland and says, "Oh well thank you for deciding you'd spend time with me and let me show off what a hunter you are." He bows to Lark then and says, "I see a cousin I need to greet and an old friend, turned Marquis I should speak to. Shall we speak more soon?" He says as he looks around trying to see where Princess Sasha and the Man-candy she brought got too.

Rymarr passes a nod to Jurn and the presence of the First Ranger draws the Marquis to an abrupt halt. He offers a stiff nod of the head toward the Prodigal, but pauses in order to both offer a greeting and comment back to Esoka, "Dame Esoka, good to see you, as always. I've tried my hand at falconry in the past... I'll stick to hounds and horses". The comment draws a faint twitch of Rymarr's mouth as if threatening a smile, but it's quickly schooled back into order. Then the Marquis of House Deepwood turns his focus back to Jurn, whom Rymarr addresses next, "Ah, Master Jurn, you've arrived precisely on time. After this whole affair, or perhaps tomorrow as I'm sure you're weary from your trip, I've a matter to discuss with you. One that I believe will be well within your particular set of skills."

"Of course; please, find better company while you are still able," murmurs Lark quietly to Edain, a brush of self-deprecation in her words as she offers her own graceful curtsy to the High Lord in turn. Then, she is finally reaching to unhood her falcon, whose bright eyes are just as dark as his master's as he perks up eagerly.

Cirroch spots Aiden as she calls for Sasha and raises his brow. "A friend?" he asks as he leads her over toward the Prince. "Good evening," he says bowing his head toward Aiden and Silas and Edain.

"While it is the right of the winners to claim their game, I would like to invite you to consider donating your winnings, less a reward for your bird, to be butchered, cooked, and sent to the Crow soup kitchen." Samantha hands off Couquette, as it's rude to compete in one's own game. "Competitors to the line!"

Sasha shakes her head as she says to Cirroch "No my cousin actually. Come on." And with that she smiles bright as she sees Aiden and begins to bring Cirroch over as she says "Prince Aiden! It is ever so wonderful to see you!" She made sure to leave her fox at home! She offers warm smile to Samantha but doesn't wish to interrupt the explanation of the falconry games. She then offers a bright smile to all as she says "And it is wonderful to see all of you. I do wonder if I showed acquire a falcon for myself for such events." She looks to Aiden as she asks "Or should I just stick with my foxes?" A giggle escaping her lips as she asks the question.

Leola smiles a touch, lightly stroking Aletta's head with a finger, stepping towards the line gracefully. She smiles a touch to Joslyn, nodding to her, and murmuring a hello.

Waldemai watches the competitors stepping up, or, rather, watches their birds.

Silas smirks at Roland's preening and his gaze follows the owl when he takes flight back to his owner again. "Ah yes, more than likely. I don't know the particulars of what my brother initially negotiated, but... we'll see. I know the Tea Shop is still a popular destination in the Valardin Ward." This was clearly directed to Edain, intending to allow the High Lord to escape the short conversation and mingle with the rest of his friends. He then blinks at Aiden. "The pigeons are scheming and up to no good? I -knew- it." He does move to allow Aiden some room to perform, but doesn't wander far from the prince. He smiles to Sasha, too, and offers her a simple nod in greeting. Aiden had the answers to those questions!

Lark steps forward, moving Griffon carefully from her shoulder to her hand as she smiles briefly to Samantha. Clad in a gown with an emerald embroidered gryphon, with her stygian circlet buried in blonde curls, and most of all, with the stern, weighted way she carries herself, she looks every bit the Grayson High Lady, ready to fly her bird.

Joslyn leans in with Delilah, squeezing at her hand as she watches as all the animals are brought out, seeming a touch interested. "I've been here before," she says. "I've given the Marquessa self-defense lessons. Though only a handful of times," she admits. At the nod from Leola, she returns that gesture with a bright eager smile of her own. "Dame Leola, I should have expected to see you here."

Jurn seems to somehow be even more stoically straight-backed than he had been before, if it was at all possible, when Rymarr addresses him, "Whichever conveniences you, Lord Deepwood" he replies simply, shifting his eyes over the field that will certainly be turned a bit more savage in a few moments, "I'm anxious to be of service, though must admit I am still adjusting to the...surroundings" he comments, adjusting his arm slightly as if to re-position the hawk on his wrist.

Aiden checked command + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 44 higher.

Lark checked command + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 4 higher.

Edain approaches, Sasha and bows, "Princess Sasha... it is good to see you. Is this the Marquis Cirroch you have been telling me about....." he starts to asks, but then Samantha is calling out for people to come to line and he clears his throat, "Oh pardon me... We need to fly, but I'd like an introduction.."

Edain checked command + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 44 higher.

Leola checked command + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 24 higher.

Jurn checked command + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 24 higher.

Aiden does finally untangle himself from Silas when the competition is called out and he glances between Sasha and Cirroch, his hand reaching to Sasha and he leans in to peck a kiss against her cheek in greeting. "It's been too long cousin. We'll need to escape the city and go to the woods soon, like we used to," he smiles to her and then looks to Cirroch, nodding but then competitors have to line up, "I'll be glad to speak with you both after I... compete. Stick to what you know, Sash. But birds, I'd never tell anyone not to get one... unless they weren't suited." He babbles on and then jogs to the line up. He smirks back to Silas, moving to pop him a kiss before he promptly moves to take his place among the competitors! Whistling up to Baron Archibald, he prepares for the contest...

Esoka chuckles wry to Rymarr. "My dog is built more for ratting than hunting larger game. I've tried to teach him, and he's most fierce, but I think he shall never down a boar himself. He seems happy enough despite it, though." She turns to regard Jurn, offering him an inclination of her head. And admiring his hawk. "That's a proud creature. Have we met? I thought I knew most of House Deepwood, but your face is not familiar to me. I'm Dame Esoka Greenblood, Sword of the Twainfort and sworn knight to House Riven." She steps back slight, to a safe watching distance as the contest begins.

Leta is birdless. She does have thick leather gauntlets, but they're for sword practice rather than perching. She wanders out, eyes wide, brows arched as she looks curiously about herself, gaze drawn towards the various sorts of preening, majestic creatures on display. And also the birds. She rests her hands on her waist and pivots in place, looking towards Samantha as she announces the start of the competition.

Rymarr offers Jurn an understanding nod in return to the Prodigal's statement, "Entirely understandable, First Ranger. It's a drastic change from Old Oak or beyond. I think you'll be...half-satisfied... with the task. Far more familiar surroundings." Rymarr offers another nod before he gestures with the wave of an armored hand toward the line, "Now, don't let me delay you further, Master Jurn. Show your stuff." That said, Rymarr steps away so that Jurn may focus on the task at hand. He withdraws to spectate from a short distance away, which brings him to stand closer to Esoka and Samantha. A hand moves to hook an armored thumb inside of his wide leather sword belt and the opposite hand moves to rest atop the unadorned pommel of his sheathed blade.

Sasha blushes softly as she looks to Edain and says "It is good to see you as well Prince Edain and this is indeed Marquis Cirroch." And she remains close upon Cirroch's arm and nods as Edaint as to take his leave. She giggles and says to Aiden "Soon indeed we shall. I promise." And she remains where she is to watch since she is birdless as well.

Jurn checked command + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 10 higher.

Leola checked command + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 51 higher.

"I could hardly miss it" Leola smiles to Joslyn "Lady Stonewood. I'm pleased to see you again - it's been far too long" She makes the smallest curtsy, and then lifts her hand - making the smallest of clicks with her tongue, Aletta ruffling her wings and craning her neck expectantly

"Oh cousin?" Cirroch says as he's led up to Aiden. He nods to him and then to Edain. "Oh that was Prince Edain? How do I look?" he asks Sasha as they both walk away to their positions.

Griffon, at least, takes off from Lark's hand with a majestic grace, but it is clear that he is not going to capture any of the prey released. The other birds are far quicker off the mark. He returns to Lark's hand, landing with an impact that might seem as if it would throw the slight, diminutive High lady off her feet. She holds still, however, and reaches to give him a piece of meat anyways and coos soft, comforting words to him that are probably warmer than most anyone has gotten from her.

Waldemai's eyes narrow as he watches the birdies at play in teh sky.

A huge hideously ugly mastiff, Pyotr arrive, following Thena.

Sasha smiles fondly to Cirroch as she says "Yes that was also my cousin Prince Edain and you look fine. No need to fret." She watches curiously as she waits to see whose hawks shall win the first round.

The pigeons are released, and take off into the sky with a flurry of wings and coos. They arc into the blue expanse, more or less in the same direction, but aiming out in slightly different courses.

Baron Archibald Chirpington, that is the name of the white gyrfalcon entered into the competition. Aiden glances over to Edain and smiles, "It'll be an honor to compete against you Prince Edain. We never did get to go on that hunting trip did we?" He offers before his focus draws to the gyrfalcon on his forearm, scritching the feathers and murmuring, "I'll be okay. This is what you do and it needs to be done. The threat is real, isn't it?" He waits for the pigeons to be released before he seemingly gives command to the gyrfalcon to give chase. The northern bird is quick to head straight up before diving down at its prey, taking out the pigeons easily in a POOF of feathers.

"Oh, have you? That's very impressive." Delilah directs towards Joslyn, returning the squeeze as her footsteps slowly come to a halt. She extends her smile towards Leola, dipping her head politely but otherwise remaining silent as to not distract her from the exhibit. She then leans over and whispers into Joslyn's ear, before canting her head towards the door.

"My Lord." Jurn replies plainly in conclusion of his conversation with Rymarr though his head cants aside toward Esoka then as she addresses him, or rather, his hawk. "My thanks, Dame Greenblood." he replies, and unleashes his hawks ties, allowing him to depart freely and with a subtle toss, it does so, soaring with speed, though it is clearly not a match for a few of the other birds in attendance. Jurn's eyes affix toward Esoka then, "First Ranger Jurn Thornhall, captain of the Deepwood Rangers" he explains, offering a slight break of his firm lips against whitened teeth.

"It really has. When we have a chance somewhere quieter we should catch up!" Joslyn offers a dip of her head, leaning into Delilah's whisper and giving a little nod towards her before looking back to Leola. "Well, come see me sometime. I'll give you a proper introduction to my dearest Delilah," Joslyn says with a fond smile, taking Delilah's hand and making her way to the door.

Silas whistles as he watches his two favorite avian friends do impressive aerial acrobatics in their pursuit of the pigeon prey. He is less familiar with Leola's bird, but he is nevertheless impression. "Get 'im! Go go go!" The Baron of Hawkhold cheers enthusiatically.

Dame Barkley, a chocolate tri beagle, Conker, the Ornery Red Squirrel leave, following Joslyn.

Joslyn leaves, following Delilah.

Thena makes her way onto the manor grounda accompanied by a pile of mastiff and a harried-looking Solace acolyte. Notably falconless, she stops at the drinks table to snag something and then drifts towards the spectators.

Aletta rises from Leola's wrist in a powerful flurry of wingbeats. She lets out a screech as she climbs, the small falcon winding with familiarity through the flock and feathers. She reaches for height, and then gathers her wings, diving down - her talons snatching at a pigeon and near carrying it to the floor before she pulls up, dragging the stunned bird to Leola, dropping it in the Horn's outstretched hand and settling onto her wrist. She gives a little smile, stroking at Aletta's neck and feeding her a sliver of something, cooing ever so softly "Of course, Lady Joslyn" She smiles across - and grins to Edain, Aiden, with a proud familiarity

Shard's attention shifts from people to birds as the contest begins. She watches the hunts and kills keenly, but in absolute silence, and with no real change in expression beyond the obvious transition in focus. Occasionally her eyes narrow or unnarrow just a little bit, but that's all.

Esoka's eyes follow the progress of the birds in the air, narrowing. "Rangers?" Her attention drifts back to Jurn, and he lets out a low "Ah." "I have heard much of Deepwood's hunters. It is good to see them in action, if only a little." She eyes the passing servers, snagging herself a glass of cider. Thena's noted while she's snagging her drink, and the Knight of the Solace is shot a wave.

Aiden checked command + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 25 higher.

Edain raises his arm and Roland takes flight, "You are indeed correct, PRince Aiden we did not.. this will have to suffice until we can take a proper hunt in the country side..." He holds his breath for a moment as Roland flies.

But Roland has apparantly decided that he wants to hunt today, The Great Horned Owl is visibly slower than the other raptors, but he has sharp eyes, and good hunting instincts. He quickly spies a pigeon that has taken a a course just tangental enough from the other's that Roland can lowr his head and soar in an intercept course. Catching up to the pigeon, he show's one of the reasons some will train an owl to hunt despite the frustrations. Roland strikes with such strength that the Pigeon looks as if he might have been dead on impact.

Lark hoods her falcon again, transferring him to one of her guards carefully, before moving back towards her hostess. "Marquessa Samantha, thank you for hosting such an event," she offers to the woman, tipping her chin in a gesture. "I am sorry that I cannot stay longer, but I had a previous engagement." Her gaze slides towards Aiden for a moment, but then she merely nods again to Samantha before moving to draw from the hunting party.

Dash the Guard Corgi, 2 Iron Guardsmen leave, following Silas.

Sasha whisper quietly into Cirroch's ear as she continues to watch over the pigeons getting poofed out of the sky. And she looks quiet excited as she sees that Aiden and Eidan are going into the second round. Two of her family members against Leola. She offers a wave bye to Lark before she whispers back to Cirroch once more.

Dash the Guard Corgi, 2 Iron Guardsmen arrive, following Silas.

Waldemai eyes the attack corgi, and moves his ankles further out of reach.

The white gyrfalcon returns with the evident captures in talon, plopping them in a pile precisely in the palm of Aiden's outstretched hand. The Prince's head bows and he murmurs over the fallen pigeons and then passes them on to a servant waiting to gather the spent birds. He inhales and regards Lark, noting her mention of a previous engagement, "Mm, we're still in this Archibald. A few more rounds and then I will have to follow Her Grace... less I never be invited to dinner again... And no, we're not having pigeon."

It has been said that an 'attack corgis' favorite attack is to aggressive seek belly rubs.

(315As Aiden, Edain, and Leola's birds triumph, pages rush forward to inquire as to whether they would like to donate their kills for the soup kitchen. Once things are re-set, Samantha announces delightedly, "Wonderful! And now, one pigeon will be released. The raptor that catches it will be the winner of our flight contest!" And with that, she signals for release.

As Aiden, Edain, and Leola's birds triumph, pages rush forward to inquire as to whether they would like to donate their kills for the soup kitchen. Once things are re-set, Samantha announces delightedly, "Wonderful! And now, one pigeon will be released. The raptor that catches it will be the winner of our flight contest!" And with that, she signals for release.

Thena tacks towards Esoka on seeing the wave, the mastiff trundling determinedly behind her while Pyotr (who is NOT a mastiff but rather a human being) stands at the food table looking mildly confused. "Good, um...bird...hunting, yeah?" says this child of the Lowers, on reaching earshot.

Aiden checked command + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 41 higher.

Edain checked command + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 16 higher.

The guard corgi, indeed, cants his head at Wald and look more curious than hostile. Treats were a good substitute for belly rubs, too.

Jurn smiled, perhaps a bit more genuinely than before at the comment of seeing them in action, and regards Esoka simply with, "We prefer to be seen as little as possible, so it is good that we are doing our job" he humbly muses, if even mostly to himself and as his bird returns, he lassoes it to his wrist again, feeding it a small piece of meat to keep its attention, "No worries, Fix. You do not hunt pigeons normally." he converses with his hawk, as if it was a close friend, raising one off-hand to brush lightly atop the birds head as it eats.

Leola checked command + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 39 higher.

5 Grayson Guardsmen, Songbird, a dignified war-mastiff, Crom, an expressive bull-mastiff, Griffin, a gray falcon leave, following Lark.

Sadly in the face of a single target to chase, Roland's speed will be an issuse. Edain will need a perfectly timed release to give his falcon a chance at catching that pigeon. Sadly, Edain is only able to give him a 'pretty good' release and it's not enough to give Roland the leg up he needs.

Waldemai sneaks a bit of boar from under one of the cloches and happens to accidentally dangle it near A Certain Guard Corgi.

As far as the guard corgi sees it, he has now acquired a new bestest friend! He bounds in the direction of the delicious morsel and quickly nips it out of Waldemai's hand with an excited yip. Silas is too distracted with the hunt in the sky to really pay much attention, still hooting and hollering his support for Baron Archibald.

Aletta, in turn, is a high-air hunter! She flies well, and dives well, but is nipped to the post by Aiden's bird. She smiles, all the same, accepting Aletta's return and nodding demurely to the other two competitors "Congratulations" She offers with a smile. While Aletta flew, Leola had made it clear; yes, donate the bird, of course.

Baron Archibald poses proudly upon the Prince Grayson's forearm and then flicks his tail feathers and curls his wings as if preparing for the instant that the pigeon was released, like a sprinter in a race prepares at the start line. When the pigeon is released, those white feathers waste no time in hurling the gyrfalcon from the releasing arm, as Aiden gives him a helpful boost skyward. It's team work and a coordination between bird and man, man and bird, that gives Archibald the few seconds he needs to out turn and out maneuver not only the fleeing pigeon, but the competing birds as well! The white gyrfalcon Baron Chirpington scores the victory with his talons ceasing hold of the prey bird first! A long winded victorious shriek is heard from the gyrfalcon and on the ground Aiden fist pumps breakfast club style.

Waldemai makes it a point to be seen cheering loudly for the champion bird. As soon as people have looked away, he sneaks a couple more slices of roast boar. "One for you and one for me," he tells the corgi, and passes one on, sating his own hunger with the other.

Aiden is overheard praising Samantha for: A fab hostess of Falconry events!

Cirroch watches the competition with rapt attention as he whispers with Sasha.

Shard continues to observe in narrow-eyed silence. Her eyes follow all three birds up, though she mostly only traces the route of the victorous bird back down this time.

As the things are arranged once more and the rabbits are acquired, Samantha once more uses her Assembly voice. "Ladies and gentlemen, it's now time for the ground event. Rabbits will be given an eight second head start to get distance, and then birds may be released. Please line up if you intent to participate!" And with that, Sam signals to the servants prepping the trio of bunnies.

Aiden checked command + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 39 higher.

Jurn checked command + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 32 higher.

Edain has rolled a critical success!
Edain checked command + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 43 higher.

Leta cocks her head as her eyes follow after the birds, though she furrows her brow and seems to have a hard time following what's going on overhead, glancing over in confusion as the first two events come and go, as if not quite sure who might've actually won. She draws a breath, exhales through a grin, and looks around again, eventually meandering over in Shard's direction, offering a nod to the woman on approach. "Know much about falconry?"

"Hello, Thena," Esoka offers heartily to the other woman. Her dog, and attendant, are flashed a toothy smile. "I don't have much of an eye for it. I hunt better on horseback, or just with a large spear. But they fly most fiercely, and we'll get to see them go after rabbits soon. I think Master Jurn could tell you better." She dips her chin to the huntsman she's been talking with, before she's off to compete again. "He's a ranger for the Deepwoods."

Rymarr is overheard praising Aiden for: Well, everybody's heard about the bird. It's a word that Prince Aiden Grayson is clearly well versed in.

Leola checked command + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 39 higher.

Shard shakes her head slowly. She doesn't really look at Leta beyond a brief glance, with her visual attention still dedicated to the birds themselves. "A few tribes we knew practiced it. Mine didn't."

Archibald settles on Aiden's arm, flapping his wings and ruffling up feathers as a talon is extended to deliver the pigeon. This one too, is donated to the attendants that come to collect. "Well done. Are you tired at all? If you are, you don't-" he is about to offer the gyrfalcon a way out of the party but evidently the twist of talons suggests that bunny hunting is happening!

Dash yips again at Waldemai, apparently intelligent enough to comprehend the gist of Waldemai's words by his tone and being all too delighted to receive yet another scrap of meat from his new best friend. Silas's hooting and hollering tapers off and he settles into just clapping instead, until the next event starts. He finally notices his canine companion isn't by his feet any more and scans the area briefly, but smiles when he sees the canine seems to be in friendly company... and being happily fed.

Rymarr watches on with his usual stoicism, but as the birds of prey swoop and careen in the air for their the prey which gives the raptors their common moniker, Rymarr can't help but look impressed. He remains unmoving as though a statue as normal, but his shifting features as his lips press together into a slight downward turn seems to show that he found the feats of the falconers and their companions to be nothing short of impressive. Particularly when the hits come.

This release right here? This is what Edain needed to do last round. But that said, Rabbits are something of a speciality for Roland and so this hunt is far more bird motivation than it is skilled handling on Edain's part. Still, he's happy to see Roland performing well. Often he decides he's just not in the mood to hunt when other people are around!

The rabbits are released, and the signal given for the birds. Off they go, and in short order, the same three raptors are the victors. "Finalists, to the line!" Samantha calls out, pleased as punch. "And on the signal, you may release!"

Aiden checked command + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 40 higher.

Edain checked command + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 15 higher.

Leola chuckles a touch to Aletta, gently smoothing her flight feathers - Aletta irritably resettles her own wings, thank you - and she smiles across to Edain and Aiden, a little "I admit to seeing the appeal of owl hunting, your grace" She offers, in a melodic tone "Certainly stately, and far more impressive in flight than most raptors. Hush" She tells Aletta as the raptor looks irritated - before bunnies are released and she takes flight, not bothering much for height but skimming low across the ground. Waldemai is apparently familiar enough for Aletta to consider dropping her prey off with him, but she does return to Leola - and the commoner steps up to the line once more

Leola checked command + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 51 higher.

Jurn unties the simple falconers knot of his Hawk's lead and holds it snugly and ready to release, though when he does so, it's clear the Fixius is behind the pack. With no prey left to get, he returns to Jurn for a snack of a small piece of rabbit served from his fingertips, "Bah. Do not worry, Fix. You are a powerful hawk..." he leans closer as his bird of prey devours the piece of meat, "They know who would devour them in nature, my friend" he assures his companion, muttering a low click from the back of his teeth, the hawk emits a shrill scream and shakes its head.

Aiden's into the competition if only because he gets to show case what his partner in wing can really do! He seems to be constantly speaking with the feathered friend, guiding with corrections and whistles, plus other sounds that help capture the bunnies. Poor bunnies! At some point in the game, on the final round, Archibald is beaten to the punch by the Paladin's bird. He wings away with a squawk and returns empty taloned.

"I've never hunted before," Thena notes to Esoka as Samantha announces the next event. "At least not for food. Unless gathering herbs counts-" A little frown of consideration aimed at the competition, much bloodier than a jaunt in a meadow, before she tacks on, "-and I don't think it does. Master Jurn." She inclines her head to the man in greeting, dark eyes flicking to the bird that he's apparently conversing with.

Waldemai claps for the finalists. "Well flown!" he calls. "Bravo." While the others are distracted by the winners, he asks the dog, "How about a bit of rabbit? Better?" For himself he sticks with the heavier, meatier boar.

Silas seems a hint crestfallen when Archibald gets bested, but he still applauds the splendid performance of Aletta. "Excellent work, Dame Leola!" He gives Aiden and Archibald a sympathetic smile and re-takes his place at Aiden's side. "Congratulations, love."

Sasha smiles as she continues to watch and applauds the winners softly, not wishing to startle the birds after all.

Sasha is overheard praising Samantha for: For holding such a wonderful and lovely event

Cirroch claps for the winners as he looks toward Sasha. "Is there some sort of donation we should be making, do you know?"

Cirroch is overheard praising Samantha for: Lovely home. Lovely bird thing.

It seems at this point Roland is no longer feeling motivated to prove anything, nor to try and out run birds that are swifter in the air than he is. He circles the rabbit, gives a loud, 'WHOOOOT' as if to say, 'Go get 'em guys!' and then flies back to Edain's arm. The Prince of Santcum says, "Well I am very proud of you today. You proved me doubters wrong about how great a hunter you are when you want to be." Edain says as he reaches into the belt pouch and offers the bird a little bacon as a reward.

"Hm?" Jurn emits with a light purse of his firm lips as he turns his attention to Thena. He is without shame in his actions, which be that his hazel eyes seem to survey her from head to toe quite plainly, "I believe it is still called 'hunting' for a reason - " he pauses, offering a subtle upturn at the edges of his lips, "That is quite well tooled armor"

Leola is overheard praising Samantha for: Birds may be the words, but Samantha is an excellent host!

"Dame Leola wins the ground competition! Congratulations, Dame Leola." Samantha gives people time to collect themselves, noting, "As you all may see, we've commissioned some prizes for the contest winners. A mask, and some falconry gloves. The two victors may choose which one of the two they'd like, and it's my pleasure to offer High Lord Edain this pair of lovely tress bells as he made it to both finals with his marvelous owl."

Rymarr is overheard praising Leola for: An exemplary display. I'd expect nothing less of someone who could teach Sir Celeritious Karl Shellsworth III.

Samantha picks up Golden Raptor Bells.

Samantha picks up Fierce Falcon Mask.

Samantha picks up Autumn Falconer's Gloves.

Sasha looks to Cirroch and says to him "We could ask Marquessa Samantha if there is anything that should be gifted to the event. She would be the best to ask since she is hosting. Perhaps wait for her to finish handing out the prizes?"

Leta looks over as they release the rabbits, "I've a cat. She'll catch mice. Don't fly, though. Cats, I mean," she informs Shard, and narrows her eyes slightly at the birds descend on the bunnies, making a quiet smacking sound with her lips. "I wonder if you can train a magpie."

Aiden welcomes the return of Archibald and laughs to something the bird is doing, "I told you. You should have taken a turn when you didn't. That cost you a few seconds!" He head boops the gyrfalcon before releasing him for good, "Try to go find Reyan for me would you? He was supposed to tell me when his fledgings were ready." Archibald does wing off and that leaves Aiden rushing over toward Silas, with a grin, "No matter what, I know Archibald is a defender of Arx. He did well." When he hears that there's something of prizes to retreive, he turns with curiosity. There's some anxiousness to him, "We should get going. Lark is going to be upset if we're too late..." Although when the gloves are delivered, his eyes light up, "Oh goodness! Thank you for the lovely prize, Marquessa! Marquis!"

Aiden is overheard praising Leola for: Excellent Flying!

"My grandfather taught me to hunt when I was a girl," Esoka says to Thena, after a sip of cider. "I still enjoy it. Hours in the woods center my mind. I pray someday I'll be able to venture deep into the Gray Forest for pleasure again." A grim shadow crosses her face when she mentions the forest, though she tries to dismiss it with another drink. There's a snort, at Jurn's observation about Thena's armor, and she applauds the victors as the competition draws to a conclusion.

Aiden is overheard praising Edain for: Nicely Done on the Fly!

Sasha is overheard praising Leola for: Excellent flying

Sasha is overheard praising Aiden for: Excellent flying

Leola dips a small curtsy, smiling a touch as she moves to accept the mask, bowing her head "My thanks, Marquessa Deepwood" She nods softly "It's always a pleasure and an honor to hunt alongside others, and something I take seriously" And she smiles warmly to Edain "If you do want your fine owl to spend time alongside other birds, the Lodge would be pleased for him to accompany us, should either of you wish it"

Cirroch is overheard praising Aiden for: Excellent flying

Cirroch is overheard praising Edain for: Excellent flying

Cirroch is overheard praising Leola for: Excellent flying

Aiden is overheard praising Jurn for: Your hawk is fierce! Soar on!

Leola is overheard praising Aiden for: One of the finest hunters on the wing in the Compact

As the Prince of Sanctum is presented with the bells, Roland preens and gives Coquette a little upnod. Great Horned Owl pride and all. "Thank you, Marqueesa, this was a lovely event." He steps back as she presents awards to victors and goes to find Sasha and Cirroch, "I apologize for my aburt exit before." he bows to Sasha and bows and offers to hand to Cirroch, "Edain Valardin, Prince of Sanctum. It is my honor to meet you."

Shard finally eyes Leta a little more directly. "...Magpies don't hunt," she says, a little slowly. "Not like that. They're scavengers. You can probably train them, if you can get one to listen to you, because they're clever as fuck, but not to do that."

Sasha is overheard praising Edain for: Excellent flying

"Sorry to fly and go!" Aiden extends out to those around, "I'm so very late!" And he grabs Silas hand and doesn't given the Baron much opportunity to say his own goodbyes... Run rabbit run!

Dash the Guard Corgi, 2 Iron Guardsmen leave, following Silas.

1 Grayson Guardsmen, Baron Archibald Chirpington, a Gyrfalcon, Silas leave, following Aiden.

Now that prizes are dispersed, and game is sent off to the kitchen to be prepped for the soup kitchen, Samantha is now free to roam and accept people's greetings and goodbyes, depending on if they're coming or going.

Cirroch bows low before Edain as he releases Sasha from his arm. He takes his hand and shakes it. "The honor is all mine, my lord," he says. "Marquis Cirroch Sanna of Giant's Reach."