Waldemai wanders in for the fights. "Send a pitcher upstairs," he tells the nearest wait staffer, and then heads up into the cheap seats.

Waldemai has joined the upper rafters.

Orathy has joined the ringside table.

2 Igniseri novice guards arrives, following Lucita.

Valencia sweeps into the arena and offers last minute instructions for her staff. She smiles and thanks them, wishing them a good evening as she sets off to see that all is well prepared. A bright smile is offered to Wash as she arrives and a warm nod to Orathy, the little vixen looking both surprised and delighted to see him there. Waldemai's arrival receive a cheerful wave and no less than three serving girls rush to see to his comfort, the quickest of which, the little buxom brunette Lizette, lithely makes her way up the ladder and along the beam with pitcher in hand and big smile to boot.

Wash already has a pitcher of beer and a vantage point on the arena. He salutes Valencia. "Evening Princess."

Wash has joined the corner table.

Orathy, with hand wrapped around the bottle of whiskey, hoists it up to notice the nod froom Valencia. To note, his whisker bracketted lips curl up in a vague sort of smirk. "Reckon I'm here to fight, any be willing to?"

"I might be tempted, after a few more drinks at least." Wash admits.

Waldemai calls down from the rafters, "Buy that man a drink!"

Seemingly now used to the little ching and tinkle sounds from the feather charms dangling from the hem of her skirt, Lucita ignores the cheerful sound as she steps into the arena area. She pauses near the entry as her gaze sweeps over the area assessing who may have already arrived.

Wash glances up, having missed the man's climbing into the rafters. He waves at Lucita. "Good evening Lady Igniseri."

"My Lord Wash, I'm so pleased to see you, and you Missere Orath," she nods warmly, her smile growing at the eagerness of the men in looking to test their skills. Lucita's arrival is met with another bright smile and the offer of little hug and a light peck on the cheek. I'm so glad you are here, my Lady. You are well?"

Orathy leans back in his chair and rocks it onto the back legs, putting his hands up behind his head in an interlocked clasp. "Hello Princess," he gruffly states, looking around at the available competition.

Lucita returns the hug and cheek peck. "So far, so good. Luis sends his regrets, he said something about a patrol and training some of the household guards that he could not put off." She lifts a hand to wave toward Waldemai, nods to 'O', and says. "Lord Admiral Kennex, Good evening. I've been asking Lord Ian how you have been."

"Better to ask me how Ian has been. He burned himself badly in a climbing competition." Wash explains. "Or I expect he would be here tonight."

Orathy throws two fingers up that are wrapped around his bottle of whiskey in a salute to Lucita, before he takes a sip of it. His eyes turn toward Wash with a lazy interest.

Captain Reedy, a Telmarine military aide arrives, following Corban.

Valencia smiles and nods graciously to Lucita. "I am sorry to hear that he will not be here. Please send him my fondest affection," she asks with a smile, her cheeks flushing only slightly. "Come let's take a seat, I need wine before this starts in earnest," she says taking Lucita's arm and leading her to a table.

Corban clink-clanks-clinks into the Golden Heart, in his partial rubicund armor, apparently looking for a fight or something. Or it is one might assume from his attire. He raises a hand to the proprietress of the place, his eyes scanning the arena.

Lucita speaks with some surprise. "That bad? I knew he had been hurt, Baron Estaban was too and I've been busy helping Lord Marcos with him. He has someone helping him, yes? He still has not recovered enough to get out? He never even let me know he was hurt." She moves toward a table with Valencia though her expression is still distressed. Looking at Valencia she just says. "Men!"

Waldemai is watching the proceedings from the cheap seats above the arena. Quaffing is almost as much fun as spectating!

Orathy has been sitting at a table, near the ring, waiting on someone to rise to the occasion. When his eyes fall on Corban however, he stands up from the table and gives the man a head nod toward the ring. It's the only indication of an invite, because the whiskey bottle is put down and Orathy is making his way to the arena.

Orathy has left the ringside table.

Orathy has joined the ring of valor.

Corban spies Orathy and makes eye contact with him, nodding his head. Apparently, that is all that is needed to match the two of them, for he makes his way down into the arena, taking out his blade and taking a few swings to warm up.

Corban wields heart of The Telmarch Oathlands redsteel blade.

Wash gestures for another mug to be sent around to his table. "Ian will be fine, in time. He's annoying Lady Mazetti with his insistence on taking care of himself."

Orathy wields a brutal battle axe with a wicked crescent blade.

Valencia smiles as Coban arrives. "Welcome, my lord, I is so good to see you, she offers with a warm incline of head and the offer of a delicate hand in greeting. "I hope you will grace our sands tonight," she smiles. Turning, the little vixen frowns at hearing the news about Ian, "Gods above and below. Is there anything we might do to assist?"she asks, nodding respectfully to Orathy as takes to the sands and returning her gaze to Wash.

Waldemai calls down, "I will put five hundred silver to Lord Corban!"

a tiny man with a BIG unpronounceable name arrives, delivering a message to Corban before departing.

"You can't have my money this week rafterchild." Wash retorts. "Maybe later, when I am feeling less sober."

Orathy likewise, from the choice of weapons he carries, goes with the axe. He flexes his hands around the haft of it, though it is a weapon that can be used with one or two hands, thankfully. The red steel indicates it might be a match for Corban's own blade, though when he hears the call from up above, he snorts, "Reckon that be a bad bet!" Dark eyes flash toward Corban, "Submission rules. First to be tapping out or yielding. Ain't got time for anything else, m'lord."

a tiny man with a BIG unpronounceable name arrives, delivering a message to Corban before departing.

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

Lucita says, "Last I saw Lord Ian was that day in the gauntlet...er. What day was that Lord Corban, it was the day you were there, too?" She gives a wry grin. "Oh, just answer after the spar. Not fair to distract you with questions now.""

"Well enough," says Lord Corban with a dip of his head as he falls into a fighting stance on the stands, raising his blade in a salute to the fellow across from him. His eyes meet Orathy's and he falls into a crouch, ready for the battle to begin.

Corban takes moderate damage.

Corban takes minor damage.

Orathy isn't wearing as much armor as his opponent and is wearing leather no less, which is a risky decision to make against someone wearing rubicund armor! He's fighting mere leather against rubicund! It'll be a decent competition! Orathy's movements, he is older with silver in his beard, are anticipated to be slow, but he's quick. He gets the first two hits against the Lord Telmar and happens to avoid every counter attack in which the other man dishes out.

There is a clash of red steel against red steel, but the Lord Corban takes an early blow from the Culler's axe, staggering back slightly. But he soon gets his feet back underneath him, and shifts himself, managing to go strike for strike, the two circling without too much additional trouble.

Corban takes minor damage.

Corban takes minor damage.

Valencia has joined the corner table.

Vercyn follows the clash of steel and the sound of voices into the arena. He is dressed as usual, in leather, fur and silk. He surveys the area for a moment before walking closer to the arena itself.

Valencia has left the corner table.

Valencia has joined the ringside table.

Lucita has joined the ringside table.

Orathy takes minor damage.

Wash applauds the exchange, taking a moment to set down his beer of course, "Well struck!" He calls to Corban, noting that the exchange is not entirely one sided.

The clang of continued sparring in the arena continues, Lord Corban and Orathy Culler continuing to circle and largely miss or strike off one another. There are some faint scrapes along the armor, but in the end, they are not much more than they began. But some sweat does appear on Lord Corban's brow, the first sign of fatigue.

Orathy is doing his best against the younger man, feeling a grazing blow to a place where he's not actually wearing armor, like his whole torso area. It might be due to the man's particular situation in life that affords him only half gear, but, even so, it's not a killing blow so the man jumps back from it. He's working up a sweat against this opponent, axe parrying sword and visa versa. He continues to circle like a wolf cornered, attacking swiftly and leaping out the way afterward.

The matches started, Valencia takes to the nearest table, gracefully taking a seat as the fight begins. Dark glimmering eyes settle on the ring and the combatants faced off. A little look aside reveals the arrival of Vercyn and she smiles brightly to see him, "My Duke!," she calls out inviting him to join them and offering him a delicate hand in greeting with he reaches the table. "Welcome to my Hart. Please join us. Would you care to join us as well, Lord Wash," she calls over warmly.

Orathy takes minor damage.

Corban takes serious damage.

Corban takes minor damage.

Lucita's attention is on the spar in progress between Orathy and Corban but as they finish one exchange and ready for another she gives a beguiling smile to Vercyn. "M'Lord, just in time to see the most of the first spar of the night. Have you been well since we last spoke?"

Orathy takes a great risk and becomes more aggressive, stepping into Corban's swing to sacrifice and take a hit, only so that he can leverage a stronger and harder impact against Corban. This is followed up by another series of parries, dodges, before he clangs his axe against that rubicund armor to land another hit, not nearly as teeth rattling as the other.

Corban, unfortunately, can feel himself beginning to fade a little bit in the stretch of the fight, his arms growing heavy, even in only the partial suit of rubicund. It leads to him taking more strikes, but hardly out of the fight yet.

the Northern Duke makes his way to the ring side table and he bows. He takes Valencia's hand in his, brushing his lips briefly over the top of it. "Your Highness, it is a joy to see you as always." He turns and bows to Lucita. "My Lady." SHe will receive the same courtesy if she is willing to offer a hand. "I have been well for the most part. Dealing with some affairs of my household, but that is mostly resolved." He pulls out a chair and takes a seat.

Vercyn has joined the ringside table.

Corban takes minor damage.

Orathy takes minor damage.

Corban checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 21, rolling 39 higher.

Corban remains capable of fighting.

Valencia smiles to Verycn sweetly up at Vercyn as he takes a seat and soon there is a member of the Hart's staff there with a bottle. The little vixen turns her eyes back to the match on the sands utterly captivated now. The match is so fierce it is nearly savage, Orathy bringing a grit to the sands not often scene. The crowd is riveted. But Corban is an experiences warrior and fights back hard, though there are signs of fatigue forming.

On the one hand, Corban would likely press forward, and push himself out to his limits in this spar. On the other hand, he seems to know where this battle is going, and it is going nowhere good for him. And so, discretion and so on, he takes a knee, holding up a hand. "I yield, Goodman. A fair and good fight."

Lucita extends her hand when she receives a bow. "That is very good to hear." The sound of another blow landing has her gaze drifting so she can hold both those at the table and the fight in progress within her visual field.

Orathy wasn't a trained knight, he wasn't a soldier in anyone's army, he was a man of the street, driven by fierce determination to survive, the same grit that he brings to the Hart everytime he shows up to compete. He takes risks that would otherwise open himself up to be hit, but those risks pay off - big. The older man with salt in his beard has the upper hand after a while. What may be surprising is that when Orathy hefts the brutal looking axe to chop at his foe, Corban takes to the knee. That keeps the chop from never coming down as he backs away, with a grunt toward him, taking a few long puffs of air before he can speak, "Aye. Was a good match. Reckon so."

Waldemai cheers for the competitors. "Well fought," he calls down from the rafters. He hasn't reached the ale sloshing stage yet, fortunately for those below. "Well fought!"

Valencia rises to her feet and cheers, calling out to the men on the sands below. "Bravo! Well fought!" she cries out looking more than impressed with the show of skills on both their part.

Wash applauds again, this time more loudly and for both fighters. "Well done. Well fought. Goodman Orathy, your reputation precedes you, I won't test my blade where Lord Telmar has failed."

Corban rises to his feet and sheathes his sword, dipping his head to the Culler and taking his leave from the sand. He then makes his way over to the bar to order an ale for himself.

Vercyn claps polietly for the contest, leaning back in his chair as he looks over both of the fighters.

Lucita claps with the rest. "Well fought! That was a good match!

Orathy watches the Lord Telmar leave the arena and then glances toward Wash when it's announced that he won't be testing his blade. For the meantime, Orathy awaits in the arena, looking to see if there were any others this night that would be up to challenging the old guy in street leathers.

Wash finishes his bug, pouring another one for himself. "Age and wisdom proves out again." He says saluting Orathy. "Want a drink?"

Corban pauses when Lucita murmurs something to him, and then seems puzzled more than anything. He nods his head and leans in to murmur to her in return.

Orathy raises a brow toward the audience, then hears the call for a drink, "Aye, reckon that I do," he snorts with a submission that he wasn't going to see another competitor that night, "Must be feeling a little better today than be the last time I be here." He pops over the railing and makes his way toward the drink offering, shouting up to Waldemai, "Told ya it was a rotten bet!"

"A fine showing, to be sure." The Northern Duke opens the bottle that has been supplied for the table and pours his glass full. He lifts the glass to Orathy and inclines his head.

Wash pours a drink for Orathy. "I like an honest man. Not the first time I've seen you at one of these events though. You're a man that's seen action in the past."

The little vixen looks very pleased to hear Orathy's words and raises a glass to him as he passes. The crowd still rumbles and cheers for the fight, offing more than a few good natured slaps to the back and calls of congratulations for both fighters. Valencia settles in her seat again and nods to Vercyn and Lucita. "That was an incredible fight. One of the fiercest I've seen. I hope Orathy considers challenging in the Tournement of Harts. I would very much like a showing from those without title in the competition. It is what the Hart stands for after all, yes?" she smiles. Dark eyes roam to see who might be up next.

Waldemai calls down to Orathy, "It's the betting that's important, not the winning." He's got a mug full of fresh ale and it shows. "It makes a god fight that much more worth watching!"

Orathy glances toward Vercyn, nodding as he slides into a seat with the guy offering him a drink. Orathy snorts at the honest part, "Ain't sure I be entirely honest, otherwise I be fucking dead by now. Sometimes to survive, ya gotta do things that ain't ..." he side glances to Valencia, squinting a bit, "Long as it be offering silver at the end Princess, be fighting whatever champions you be needing me too." Then back to Wash, "Aye. I have." He glances up at the hollarfrom Waldemai, taking up his glass from Wash and honoring the betting man upstairs with a hoist and a proper swig.

Lucita murmurs a few words with Corban, nods and says "Thank you. I look forward to seeing you and Lady Greenmarch later."

Captain Reedy, a Telmarine military aide leaves, following Corban.

"None of us is a hundred percent honest. Our oaths only allow so much, right? Or is that why you are a freedman messere?" Wash asks Orathy. "I wouldn't hold it against you if so."

Orathy looks over the rim of his glass before he settles it on the table, hand rising up to scrub at his beard, "Freedman?" There's some confusion, "I be born in the Lowers, ain't so sure that be a free life by any means, eh."

"There would be a purse and the winner would drink and eat free here for as long as the title was carried," Valencia nods and smiles to Oarthy, though it's known by many those in need are often enjoy service and are never charge. "I would be very glad to see you compete, sir," she says earnestly.

Vercyn nods to Orathy. "Judging by the showing you just put on, I dare say you will have a good chance at victory."

"Well, my mistake then. You learned the life of the sword somewhere though." Wash says, lifting the pitched to top off Orathy's drink. "I fear that I'll never hold such a title." Wash admits. "Who is the current holder?"

Lucita listens with interest to the conversation about the spars and victory chances. "Will it all be held during one night or a series of nights?"

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

Orathy turns in his seat to consider Valencia and Vercyn, "Aye well, reckon if Agnarr or Reese be in it, ain't no way anyone be beating them. I reckon I tried more than once against each of 'em. I'm an old man besides, but aye, reckon I can try to." His brown eyes turn to Valencia and he bobs his head, "When you be hosting it, be sending me an invite, aye?" As for Wash he answers well enough, "I learned what I know from the streets, been getting lessons on foot work though, by that one fella, Jhond."

Orathy is overheard praising Jhond.

Vercyn laughs softly at Orathy's words. "Oh, not so old as all that I think."

Lucita says, "I remember you leaving Baron Estaban with smashed ribs one time." She says to "O'."

"I think it will happen over a series of nights. There will be one for each style of fighting. And then a chance for all those to win a place in a grand melee. Purses will go to the winners. And that table will be used by them and their guests. The titles would have to be defended and relinquished if beaten or inactive. The full structure of the lists is still being worked out," she explains with a brigtht smile, reaching forward to refill everyone at the table's glasses again.

Valencia nods to Orathy, "Of course. I would be glad to, sir." she smiles sweetly at the big man from the Burroughs.

Orathy glances to Lucita with a raised brow, a knowing smirk on his face, "Aye, and how is the boy?" Orathy purposefully takes a pointed drink of whiskey, glancing over at Valencia. His thoughts are kept to himself but he does tip his glass in her direction for the sweet smile, eyeing her a lot longer than he normally would.

Strolling into the arena, Joslyn is decked out in silks and finery, looking as usual like she's ready for a ball, rather than a fight, but there's a bright smile and a glance to the arena. "Sorry I'm late," Joslyn says towards Valencia, making her way to Valencia. "Is there anybody here ready to fight?" she asks, scooping up some wine and sipping from the glass.

Orathy glances to Vercyn and shrugs, "Aye well, not so old that I be crippled yet."

"Four titles?" Wash asks. "That seems like a great many. But not so many as will bankrupt the Hart."

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

Orathy has left the ring of valor.

Orathy has joined the corner table.

Lucita shakes her head. "Recovering from burns like many others. Back, arms, hands. Lord Marcos has been overseeing the healing. He is still healing but lighter bandages now. Pushing himself to get out before he should but.. sometimes there is no holding him back.

Joslyn has joined the ring of valor.

The little vixen returns Orathy's lift of glass with another warm nod and turns to answer Wash, "Five, possibly six," she replies. "I am hoping the price money will be well received but the heart of it and what comes with the title may help offset for those who are not pleased. We are in great part a charity after all. " Valencia rises to greet Joslyn with a warm hug and a bright smile, "My darling Lady Josyln! You look so beautiful tonight! What is the occasion?" she asks with a sweet laugh.

Silas steps into the Golden Hart arena with his usual understated fanfare. Meaning, no actual fanfare, just Silas in his suit of rubicund armor. He offers the hostess a polite bow, then looks up curiously at the fighting ring when he notices one occupant in particular. "Are we looking for a match-up?"

Vercyn inclines his head to Joslyn, lifting his glass in greeting. He takes a drink as he lapses into silence and observes the others around him.

Joslyn squeezes Valencia and grins. "Oh, I'm here to show off, and you know I enjoy dressing up before a good fight," Joslyn giggles, moving to take her place in the ring, looking out over the assembled group. "So, anybody wish to test themselves against me?" she asks.

"Reckon I be knowing some orphans be needing some charity," Orathy pipes over to Valencia, "And those being pushed out of their jobs by the influx of Thralls... aye... charity be needed." The ruffian in street leathers eyes those getting into the ring. "Aye, reckon I be undefeated this night!" He gives Joslyn the chance to deny him, as he was sitting having a drink. Lucita's word about Estaban has him shrug, "Boy be foolish, jumping at things he ain't knowing about. Ahh, but he be a good kid."

1 Armed Confessors, Confessor Scribble arrive, following Delilah.

"A charity without peer it seems." Wash says, relaxing with his drink. "And full of good company."

Silas tilts his head, considering Joslyn's offer from his spot close to the entrance. He shrugs his shoulders lightly. "I -did- promise to spar you, some time. This is as good as a chance as any, I suppose." He approaches the fighting ring, towards Joslyn. "I'll accept that challenge, Lady Stonewood."

Looking over the crowd she smirks to both Silas and Orathy. "If either of you think you can really take me," Joslyn grins, before looking to Silas. "Well, I haven't faced you before, and I barely remember the time we fought side-by-side. So, let us see how it goes!" she dips her head towards him.

Lucita gestures to 'O' or Silas. "they'll give you a better spar, Lady Joslyn. If I tried, would likely have the folks here bored to tears while you had to explain each thing to do before I'd know how to handle it.

He looks around curiously as he sips from his glass. "I believe I have seen Joslyn and Silas fight before. Seeing the two of them compete could be interesting."

Orathy's eyes snap upward, flashing between Silas and Joslyn. The latter gets a prolonged study. He sniffs once, takes a drink, then offers, "Fine, I fight the winner."

Waldemai cheers for the next fight. "Anyone they have a bet they'd like to get down?" He hoists his mug and drains the dregs.

Dressed in her dark and brooding robes, Delilah steps towards the arena. Her hand rests on the door to the entrance as she lifts her chin slightly, peering at those in the ring. The young woman murmurs something under her breath before she plucks a drink offered to her off a serving tray, and begins to wander inside. Spotting Valencia, Delilah gives the woman a small hug and whispers, "I'm late as always, Valencia, my apologies."

Valencia squeezes Joslyn tight and smiles, "You look ravishing. Good luck in your matches," she offers as Jocelyn calls for competition. As Silas arrives there is a light in her eyes and a warm smile and wave for the man. "Lord Silas! It's been so long. Welcome, my lord," she calls out. "Best of luck in your match." Ah shy look finds her face at Wash's compliment and whispers 'thank you," her cheeks flushing again.

There is a little cough and Valencia stands up and calls out: If you will pardon me, I have a little announcement to make. In light of the recent fire in our city and with so many families harmed by this terrible event, the Hart is collecting donations to aid those affected by the fire,” the little vixen continues solemnly. “Donations received tonight and at our upcoming Champion’s Guild event on the 21st will be given to this important cause so that families and business can get back on their feet with any funds left over to be used for the creation of a fire brigade to help combat future emergencies. I hope you will support this cause. Thank you so much for all that you do," she nods to to one and all. "And all that you will do so support our city, our people and our realm."

Silas grins and nods back to Joslyn. "I have heard many tales of your skill with smaller blades... and I've been curious ever since." He looks over his shoulder, in Orathy's direction, once he expresses his intent to fight the winner. "Deal," he retorts, simply. His hand wanders to his sword belt. "Are we fighting with steel... or alaricite?"

Silas has joined the ring of valor.

Waldemai calls over the nearest wait person. "More ale," he says. "And take this down to Princess Valencia." It's a small purse, like commoners use and not a fat noble's purse.

Vercyn stands, emptying his glass. He offers a bow to Valencia and Lucita. "I beg both your pardons, but I have some business that needs to be attended too. I hope you both have a wonderful night."

"I always carry my steel with me for a fair duel," Joslyn says. "Unless you think we should both test ourselves with Alaricite," Joslyn gives a little smile. "I'll leave that up to you," she says, wiggling her fingers at Delilah.

"Reckon I ain't having any silver to spare," Orathy notes with a faint grimace, "It be taking me long enough to be getting betther gloves." He flexes said gloves in show. He continues to drink, sputtering, "Are they bickering about ... using alaricite? Aye, Silk World problems."

Silas looks a hint sheepish. "I only have my rubicund as an alternative, so alaricite may actually make a fairer match. I can only carry so many blades at once." He unsheathes Dirge, his red alaricite blade, from its scabbard and turns to face Joslyn fully. "Alright. Ready when you are."

Joslyn wields Ruby and Rose, a pair of alaricite hairpins.

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

2 Iron Guardsmen have been dismissed.

"Sword versus pins seems like hardly a fair fight to me." Wash mutters.

Orathy checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 3 higher.

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

Joslyn tugs her hairpins from her head and giggles a bit, eying wash. "Swords vs pins has worked out just fine for me in the past," she muses, looking then to Silas, arms outstretched as she squints in his direction. "Ready," she says simply, dropping into her combat stance.

Lifting her hand to wiggle her fingers back at Joslyn, Delilah's cheeks redden a shade. Cobalt irises shift and flick between Joslyn and Silas, before she draws a generous sip of her drink. "I'll send you my aid," Delilah whispers to Valencia, before she moves to settle at a ringside table. A glance is shared with Wash and she remarks, "It may not seem fair until you see my dearest Joslyn in a fight."

"Rubicund and alaricite? Reckon now we be knowing where all that iron goat money be going," Orathy grumbles as he wrinkles his lip and takes another sip. Wash's mutter is met with a shrug, "All ya be needing to do is stab in a weak spot and it be over."

Delilah has joined the ringside table.

Silas takes moderate damage.

Valencia looks up to Waldemai and looks nearly speechless. "Thank you so much, missere. Again, you are so kind. Thank you!" she calls out her hand set gently on her breast over her heat. "This will be so helpful." Turning she smiles gently at Vercyn, offering him a delicate hand in farewell, "Thank you for coming, my Duke. I cannot wait for your next visit. I hope it will be soon." The little vixen again smiles gently to Orathy, "If you do not have coin, that is fine. There are other ways to help. Spread word of the work we are trying to do, help us with finding workers to rebuild, so many things, sir. All of it so very welcome."

Cirroch enters the arena wearing a long sleeveless coat, leaving his arms exposed to his leather gloves with steel bracing. He walks past the ring to see what sort of action he's been missing.

Beginning her fight with Silas, Joslyn squints and quickly darts around the arena. Both of them are fast, strikes often falling short of contact, and it's only by luck that Joslyn manages to anticipte his movement and strikes at him quite hard with her alaricite. "I'm a far different opponent," Joslyn says between breaths. "When I'm not weighed down with plate."

Silas raises a brow when he overhears the criticism of hairpins. "They're fine. It can be an alaricite -soup ladle- and it could still do a fair amount of damage dependent on the skill of whomever wields it." He then takes a defensive stance, seeking to observe his opponent before deciding on how aggressive he wanted to be. Joslyn wasn't a knight, and wasn't likely going to fight the way he's used to. And sure enough, she might as well be a hairpin-wielding ninja! She lands the first blow, and it is a considerable one at that. He grunts in mild frustration but retakes his stance with ease. "Indeed," Silas concurs. "But if I ever manage to hit you..."

Vercyn kisses the top of Valencia's hand. He lifts a hand in farewell to the others and makes his way from the hart.

Joslyn takes moderate damage.

Silas takes serious damage.

Vercyn has left the ringside table.

Lucita is focusing mostly on the fight. She catches a glimpse of motion as the Duke leaves, inclining her head respectfully to him and catches a glimpse of Cirroch. She gives a smile of greeting to him. "Good evening!" She murmurs before looking back at the spar.

Orathy starts to stand from the table he was sharing with Wash, finishing up the drink, "Reckon that fight will be over before we know it. Thank ya for the drink eh?" He moves toward the arena, making sure he stays out of the way but jumping over the railing and hanging out at the edge.

Orathy has left the corner table.

Orathy has joined the ring of valor.

And hit her, he does indeed. It's a hard blow that staggers Joslyn a bit, and she gives a little smirk. "Not sure an alaricite soup ladle would have the piecing damage that makes my pins deadly," Joslyn points out, and quickly she closes the gap between them, retaliating with a hard strike at a weak point in the armor. Her speed is her strongest asset, and she's a very fast, tiny, moving target, but she maintains a guarded stance, still keeping a wary eye on that sword, it wouldn't take much to take her down.

Cirroch walks over to the bar and gets a beer before walking back to the edge of the ring. He sees Lucita and inclines his head. "Good evening, my lady," he says with a smile and a deep booming voice. He raises his glass to her and then turns back to watch Joslyn fight.

Silas gets nabbed again! At a joint in his arm. He cringes loudly this time, taking a few steps back to compose himself. "Yep. Don't think I'll ever consider this an unfair match up." He rolls his shoulder and grins wryly back at Joslyn. "I'm surprised I -can- hit you... but we'll see if I get lucky again."

Valencia watches Duke Vercyn depart and smiles gently. Returning her gaze to the ring she catches Cirroch arriving. "Welcome back to my Hart, Marquis!" she calls out brightly, lifting her glass to him. "I am so glad you arrives. Won't you join us?" she invites, giving a little smile to Lucita, her table companion for the evening.

Silas takes minor damage.

The pair continues to dance around each other, Joslyn's skirt flaring out and making herself difficult to locate, using everything she can to her advantage, Joslyn grins even as she squints towards him. "I'm just afraid of what will happen when you get a proper shot on me, I doubt I'll stand for long," she chuckles, managing to strike at him again, a smaller less decisive blow than the last.

Cirroch walks over toward the table Valencia and Lucita are sitting at. "Good evening, Your Highness," he says as he bows toward them with a smile and then takes a seat next to Valencia. He leans over and air kisses her cheek before taking as sip of his beer and looking back to the ring. "Almost didn't make it. I'm glad I'm catching some of the action.

Cirroch has joined the ringside table.

Orathy's has leaned back against the railing that seperates the railing from the tables, his elbows hooking up over the top bar. He's watching and observing both the fighters, especially the Stonewood woman.

Silas does far less dodging than his opponent... but part of the reason behind that is due to him not even trying! Instead, Silas focuses on parrying. All jabs, thrusts and slashes coming his way are deftly blocked and pushed aside -- save one, exceptionally light blow in comparison to the others Joslyn has already landed on him. The sweat beading at his brow suggests he may not be capable of keeping this up for long, though. "I -really- need to get used to fighting without armor..." Silas mutters under his breath.

Joslyn takes serious damage.

Lucita looks up at Cirroch to say "those hairpins ...just wittle away steady, relentlessly, yes?"

Wash nods. "You can't underestimate the effectiveness of a small blade. That's how they get you."

Graham enters into the arena quite late alas but better then never perhaps? He looks about before stepping further in and taking in the groupings and the fight going on in the ring at the moment.

Well, after a time of dancing around him, Joslyn feels a true strike of his sword against her, and despite the fact that she very nearly manages to get out of the way, it still hits her hard, and she stumbles back, landing in the dirt for a moment before kicking her way back to her feet. "I was afraid of that," Joslyn gasps out, smiling despite herself. "You have more staying power without armor, but shit like that /hurts/."

Valencia smiles over at Wash and playfully lifting her glass and calls out, "And the fancy skirts. Never underestimate the skirts."

His breathing gradually becomes more labored, and the accumulation of sweat was visible even from a distance now. Silas does manage to land a staggering blow on his nimble opponent, but only after adjusting his stance to compensate for more aggressive attacks. Fortunately for him, his armor seems to deflect the harm behind most of Joslyn's attacks this time -- most of which now seem to land. "Not truly," Silas replies. "You're going to be outlasting me, with all this weight bearing me down. But alas, knights aren't the best duelists."

Silas takes minor damage.

Silas takes minor damage.

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

Silas remains capable of fighting.

Silas checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 85, rolling 17 lower.

Silas checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 48, rolling 15 higher.

Silas remains alive, but close to death.

Silas falls unconscious.

Wash stands up, causing his mug to jostle on the table but not fall. He applauds vociferously. "Well struck! Very well struck."

Lucita claps for the fighters. "Oh, goodness, that was exciting to see! Both of you, just amazing to watch."

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

Waldemai cheers for the fighters. "With hairpins!" he shouts. "Have you ever seen anything like it? Well done! Well done, both of you!"

The fight seems to be coming to a close, with Joslyn easily dancing around the fatigued Silas, his strikes growing more reckless as the fight moves on, and Joslyn striking, taking on a more firm stance. Joslyn shouts out with each strike, and each time she makes contact, there's a battlecry. The entire time, that grin never leaving her face.

Again, the little southern princess rises from her chair to cheer and applaud enthusiastically as the crowd goes wild around the arena. She looks up at Waldemai and then grins over at Lucita, "It makes me wish to be one of them," she grins impishly. "Bravo! Bravo to both! Well fought!" she calls out.

Delilah had been watching the fight intently for the duration of it. Completely unmoved by the idle chatter near her, she sat neatly with one leg crossed over the other and with a hand lifted over her mouth. Delilah may have occasionally winced when an actual hit landed, but she never once took her eyes off the fight. There was a slight bit of hesitation as the fight ended rather abruptly before she rose to her feet and rushed over to the ring to check up on Silas.

Delilah has left the ringside table.

Orathy watched from the sidelines and when the duel comes down to the inevitable, dark eyes settle on the Lord Commander with rueful disappointment, "Ain't only a drunken fool that can be bestin ya." Then he pushes off the railing, "Stonewood. Reckon you be ready for another? Reckon I be wanting some of that skirt my way." He sniffs, "Ain't be having fancy tools though. Steel or rubicund." He gestures to axe on his hip or the sword across his back.

Cirroch claps for Joslyn and Silas. "I should fight in a dress," he concludes.

Silas is defeated by a hairpin! Though he'd already vouched for their effectiveness, and it's clear by the end of the fight that he knew his time was running short. Abandoning literally -all- notions of putting up a defense, Silas charges and -lunges- at Joslyn was a last ditch attempt to hit her hard again and potentially even the odds. And promptly overextends himself, giving Joslyn an even greater opportunity to hit him harshly to ribs. He promptly falls over and groans. "Oooow..."

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

Puma, The Stonewood Forest Cat arrives, following Gailin.

The young soldier moves across the Arena towards the table which sits ringside. Graham looks over and claps at the end of the fight along with the others though he moves to greet the hostess. "Your Highness, greetings and such a great turn out once more."

Joslyn offers a hand to Silas, drawing a deep breath and smiles down at him. "Well fought," Joslyn says gently. "If I was wearing armor I think it would have been much closer of a fight..." she eyes Delilah and smiles towards her. "He's fine," Joslyn assures Delilah. "At least now he knows first hand I'll be able to keep you safe," she says with a little wink.

Silas climbs to his feet, looking notably worse for wear but still clearly alive. "Well struck, Lady Stonewood. Your reputation is well deserved. I'll ask for a rematch once I'm more... catlike." He looks aside, at Orathy. "Please beat him." He begins on his amble out of the ring, to join Delilah's side. "Your girlfriend's hairpins hurt -ALOT-," Silas remarks, astutely.

Waldemai has left the upper rafters.

Silas has left the ring of valor.

"Aye, my lord," Cirroch says toward Silas about Joslyn's hairpins hurting. "I know first hand, myself." He raises his beer toward Silas.

Orathy gives Silas a welcome sneer, "You be getting fat Lord Commander." He waits patiently for Joslyn to answer him.

Drawing a long sigh, Delilah lingered by the edge of the ring as she watched Silas. "... Looks like it hurt." she mumbled out, tilting her head slightly as her gaze rested on her cousin. When he drew near, Delilah gently wrapped an arm around Silas' waist and gave it a little squeeze, walking him away from the ring. "I bet! You fought admirably."

Waldemai climbs down from the rafters showing little sign of the sea of ale floating him homeward. "Thank you again for another Sip n Spar," he tels Valencia, waves his cap and heads out.

There is a little smile Joscyn's way and another for Silas, though that one is followed but another wince for him. The mercies of the arena come to check him over and the sand is cleared for the next match. Valencia look to Delilah and smile brightly, calling out, "Lady Deliah, Lord Silas, please, join us," she invites as she turns to welcome Lord Graham, "My dearest Lord Graham. You are here. Please, sit. Will you be fighting tonight?" she asks, offering him a delicate hand in greeting.

Wash checks his pitcher and finds it empty, figuring this is a good time to call it a night himself. "Indeed Valencia. Though I didn't swing a blade this time, I still found it enjoyable."

Wash has left the corner table.

Gailin strolls in his leather armor on his form as always his claymore on his back. He comes in hand in hand with Titania. Seeing Graham and Vencia he wanders over and smiles. "Well hello Princess Valencia, How are you little brother?" he asks to Graham.

Silas has joined the ringside table.

Delilah has joined the ringside table.

"Steel will work just fine," Joslyn says to Orathy. "Shall we begin?" she asks, smiling a bit, stretching her arms over her head and preparing herself. "I'm ready when you are," she says, beckoning to the arena, giving a little wave to Delilah. "Last fight of the night for me though," she says, eyeing Lucita. "Unless you still wanted to take a shot?"

Orathy wields Renewal, a steel longsword.

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

Joslyn wields two slender hair sticks set with dainty glass roses.

Silas smirks sheepishly back at Delilah. "Thanks, cousin. Think perhaps I should learn how to fight with hairpins?" Silas jests. Sort of. He looks up in Valencia's direction when the princess invites the two of them over, and beckons his cousin to follow him over. "Gladly, Your Highness. Thank you." And once he's finally settled in a seat, he promptly orders him and Delilah wine.

Titania comes walking into the Hart with Gailin holding his hand looking around. She is dressed in her leather and sword on her hip and bow on her back. She smiles looking to Valencia, "Princess Valencia, Lord Graham." she smiles.

Orathy considers Joslyn, "You be liking to be a silkie now eh?" He asks while reaching over his back and pulling loose the steel longsword, "Reckon I be ready."

Stepping over with Silas to the ringside table, Delilah shakes her head and rolls her eyes in exaggerated fashion. "I'd love to see the day you wield hairpins, dear." Settling into a spot next to her cousin, she looks over Silas one more time to make sure he's doing alright before taking a sip of the wine that a servant had brought over.

He will take the hand placing his lips to the back of it with a bow of his head/body. "I am not sure, but perhaps if the need arises I will, otherwise I enjoy the good company." Graham will take a seat for now though but looks back at a familiar voice before he can settle in too much and turns to greet them. "Ah, brother I am quite well and yourself?" He changes focus "Ah, Lady Titania, a pleasure to see you as well."

"She is remarkable with them," Valencia agrees with a nod, her hand coiled delicate around her glass as the fight begins. Gailin and Titania's arrival draw another bright and beautiful smile, the princess rising to offer Gailin a delicate hand in greeting and Titania a warm and affectionate embrace. "Hello young lovers, " she teases gently. "Come join us," she invites waving a hand to the table. "I believe you know everyone, yes?"

Graham has joined the ringside table.

Orathy takes minor damage.

Lucita wavers at what Joslyn says. "I hate breaking my word and having things to which agreed lingering for long bothers me. You told me before my last lesson was over with you, a spar was needed, and ...it never has. I thought you were going to find someone ...but...maybe. Or maybe where not so many people to watch while I wind up showing how inept I am." She glances toward the others and smiles at Graham Titania and Gailin in greeting.

Orathy finds out that Joslyn is just as quick as she made herself to be against Silas. The man fights against the swirling of skirts to locate her and without any luck, the longsword's arc too slow for the pin pricking stab of hairpins.

Orathy takes minor damage.

Delilah flashed a grin over towards Titania and Gailin, wiggling her fingers to the two in greeting. "Good to see you two again," she remarked before her gaze fell onto Graham. "Lord Graham, a pleasure to see you as well." The woman lifted her glass to her lips as her eyes fell onto those in the ring once more, and she drew silent.

Gailin smiles placing a kiss to Vals hand. "Not so sure Im young." he teases back before turning to Graham. "Im very well brother its been to long."

"If it pleases, I'm not sure how good I am, but I would be happy to practice with you," Valencia says glancing aside to Lucita. "I could certainly use the practice. Though if you are being properly trained I might not be such a challenge." There is a wry grin for Gailin, "Goodness, you speak as if you are ancient. You are not old by any stretch, my lord," she gently chides him. Another little smile is offered to Graham, "I am happy for you to keep company if it pleases, my lord. I'm glad you are here," she says with a warm nod, turning back to watch the match unfold.

So the fight begins, Joslyn manages to make quick bits of contact as she dances around him, both of them moving quickly around. "I have been enjoying it, yes. I think it suits me," she says simply.

Orathy takes minor damage.

Joslyn takes very serious damage.

Lucita keeps an eye on the spar though nods and murmurs something to Valencia. She winces at that bad blow Joslyn took.

Orathy once again opens himself up to attack to levy a stronger one against his competitor, lifting the gauntlet stretched around his forearm to take the assault from Joslyn, buffering it off so that in it enables him to launch a steadfast attack of his own, full of aggression and that dogged street grit that has gotten him through all his life. It turns the tables of the fight quickly. In taking a step back he prepares for her counter with an arched brow, the only hint of his own cockiness.

As the fight continues, Joslyn and Orathy managing to dance around each other, there's a strike that staggers her back and she grimaces. "Fuck, okay. Good hit," she grunts.

Orathy takes serious damage.

Graham looks back to Lucita and smiles warmly "Lady Lucita, good to see you." He is brought back as he's spoken to as well. "Like wise Lady Dililah, good to meeet you properly, or well unless my mind fails me which often it does." He chuckles though he doesnt seem to be ready to stand or move to do more than talk and watch the fight for now.

2 Igniseri novice guards have been dismissed.

Titania smiles looking around as she stands at Gailins silent maybe over whelmed a bit as she does, she looks to Valencia, "Hope you are well princess Valencia." she says softly leaning against Gailin.

Things are heating up out on the sands... Attacks are becoming more vicious.

Orathy takes minor damage.

Orathy takes moderate damage.

Joslyn takes minor damage.

Cirroch stands from the table and steps out for a little while.

Cirroch has left the ringside table.

Joslyn takes serious damage.

Gailin smiles and watches a smirk on his face. Hes fought in this arena once before. "Well the entertainment is good. Ill have to test my skills against Joslyn another time." he says simply before he tunes into the fight alone.

Orathy takes minor damage.

Orathy takes minor damage.

Orathy takes minor damage.

Orathy takes minor damage.

Orathy has rolled a critical success!
Orathy checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 10, rolling 62 higher.

Orathy remains capable of fighting.

Orathy checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 32, rolling 5 higher.

Orathy remains capable of fighting.

Orathy checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 34, rolling 10 higher.

Orathy remains capable of fighting.

Orathy checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 48, rolling 22 higher.

Orathy remains capable of fighting.

Orathy checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 79, rolling 39 lower.

Orathy has rolled a critical success!
Orathy checked stamina, willpower + survival at difficulty 43, rolling 49 higher.

Orathy remains alive, but close to death.

Orathy falls unconscious.

Valencia winces at the battle turns more vicious, neither combatant wishing to give up. Breaking away, she turns to Titania and smile, "Well enough. Tonight, with all of you, I could not be more pleased. We are raising money to help rebuild the burned buildings and business and to help families affected by the fire. And we aer seeing such incredible talent tonight. I am.. Oh!" she looses track of her thought as the crowd lets out a collective cry as Orathy almost goes down.

The fight continues on for some time, and even Joslyn without her armor is starting to get tired towards the end, beaten up and tired, she grimaces and finally after beating down on him as hard as she can, she manages to take him down, and with a gasping breath she offers a hand to him. "Good fight," she says. "That's it for me, though."

After straightening out her back and rising to her feet, Delilah brought her hands together in applause. She grinned down towards Silas, leaning over to whisper something into his ear, before she returned her gaze onto those in the ring.

Once. Twice. Three times. Four times... Orathy never quits! Not even when he knows the fight is not going his way. It takes the last of a series of dreaded hairpin pokes to hammer him in just the right spot (the wound!) before he actually goes down and ... bleeds. It isn't a gusher! Though it means an end to his night as well. He looks up to the hand and nods, staggering up to his feet, murmuring something to her.

Orathy has left the ring of valor.

Gailin smirks and steps forward and straightens himself up. "So whos willing to fight me?" he asks turning to wink at Titania. "Id love to participate."

Silas lets out a jubilant holler when Joslyn bests Orathy and his hands come together in hearty applause. "Well struck, Lady Stonewood! That was delightful to watch."

Orathy takes minor damage.

Titania smiles moving to kiss his cheek, "Becareful." she says softly to him and moves to find a seat and look around.

Lucita claps for the two who showed such skill in the spar. She glances toward Valencia, a brief hint of trepidation showing before a little smile masks it.

Valencia rises gracefully from her seat to cheer them both, her face a light with appreciation for their demonstration of skill.

Joslyn murmers back to Orathy and moves then to join Delilah at the ringside table, leaning to embrace her tight and smiling over to Silas. "Thank you. Some good fighters here today," she says, grinning lightly and giving a little nod towards Lucita. "Sorry, I meant to say earlier, I'll work with you whenever we can. I have had trouble finding a student at your same level, but I may have somebody that might be willing to get some practice. I'll try to get you set up soon!"

Orathy makes his way out of the Hart, splatters of blood following him. Defeated, his night is over.

Cirroch has joined the ringside table.

Gailin glances around waiting for an answer. A look of childlike hopefulness and anticipation on his face.

Giving Joslyn a soft squeeze, Delilah stagewhispered, "You beat 'em all! Way to go." With a small peck on Joslyn's cheek, she peeled away from the other woman to grin down at Silas. "I'm exhausted." She remarked, having been sitting around watching people fight. Tough work. Cobalt irises rested on Joslyn and she said, "I think I'm going to go someplace a bit quieter now."

Mongoose arrives, following Joscelin.

Mongoose have been dismissed.

"Shall I join you?" Joslyn offers, smiling kindly to Delilah, taking her hand. "Sorry I dragged you all this way out just to watch me fight non-stop."

Cirroch returns to the Arena and walks up to the table. "Ah, I missed the ending. Let me guess. Joslyn won?"

Joslyn has left the ring of valor.

Joslyn has joined the ringside table.

Silas downs the rest of his wine in one full swoop and stands from his chair. "Same. I should head back to the manor." He sets the glass aside and smiles back to Joslyn and Delilah. "I'll see you two soon, no doubt." He turns to Valencia and Lucita and bows graciously. "Thank you for hosting a wonderful evening of fun yet again, Princess Valencia. I don't have much to offer in donations - I literally spent my last coin on a very expensive gift - but I wish you the best of luck in your charitable endeavors. And I look forward to seeing you and Baron Estaban soon, Lady Lucita."

Delilah has left the ringside table.

Joslyn has left the ringside table.

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

1 Armed Confessors, Confessor Scribble, Joslyn leave, following Delilah.

Lucita gives Silas a warm smile. "Thank you. I, too, shall look forward to seeing you.

"Well fought. Both of you, that was... brilliantly done. Thank you for coming, Ladies," Valencia smiles nodding to Joslyn as she comes to the table. "Thank you for coming and sparring, my dear Lord Silas. You fought wonderfully, tonight. I hope you come again?" she nods warmly to Silas, offering him a delicate hand in farewell.


Joscelin is a little late to the party, as they say, arriving with no fanfare and a great deal of curiosity. Curls bounce as the plump, pretty jeweler makes her way in to the Arena, gold eyes darting this way and that to take in all the people and activities going on.

Gailin looks a bit disappointed as he heads back to Titania. "I guess Im to fearsome for people to want to fight." he says to her disappointedly.

"I will surely return," he answers Valencia with a smile, as he begins his stroll out. He pauses briefly to greet Joscelin when she wanders in. "Long time no see, Joscelin! We should catch up sometime." And with that, he's off.


Joscelin laughs at Silas and gives him a wink. "Looking forward to it, Silas. Have a nice evening!"

Silas has left the ringside table.

Dash the Guard Corgi leaves, following Silas.

Cirroch has left the ringside table.

Lucita finishes her drink and says. "thank you for a lovely evening, exciting spars and wonderful company. The past few days are catching up to me though, and find I need to return home rest. Will see you all soon, I hope."

Lucita curtsies and heads out.

Lucita has left the ringside table.

Titania smiles, "I would say that I would but I learned my lesson already on that." she smiles looking to him

Puma, The Stonewood Forest Cat have been dismissed.

Gailin smiles at Titania giving her a soft peck on the head. "Im sorry my love, I just get really into ot."

Titania smiles, "It is okay, I forgive you." she winks to him and looks to Valencia and Graham.