Barric smiles up at Fianna, "It is quite alright, just as Sir Ober is the one championing Duke Ashford, Prince Luca has graciously accepted to be my Champion." He gestures towards the pit where the fighting will eventually take place. He looks at Victus and smiles wryly with a shake of his head. Then turns his attention back to Terese and the quiet conversation between the pair.

Eirene strides her way in, black and red as always with the Malvici hawk on her cloak. Even her jewelry, yes jewelry, matches the scheme- comb holding up her braids of black and white hair.

Reese arrives while adorned in her normal rosy and ivory that includes leggings in place of a gown. Her golden golden locks are are loose about her slender shoulders and tangled up with lots of ribbons. She glances over the proving grounds, trying to get a feeling for the setting. She has a gentle smile of greeting for those she knows.

Harlan enters quietly, without fanfare. He walks over towards where Jordan is to speak quietly to the knight.

Ian has joined the Noble Seating.

Jordan turns to bow his head to Harlan, listening to the Duke.

Kia has left the Commoner Stands.

Reese has joined the Noble Seating.

Lumen has joined the Commoner Stands.

Slow steps bring Tabitha into the proving grounds, highlighting a faint trepidation in her bearing every time she places a small foot down on the ground. Cobalt eyes turn a searching gaze here and there, blinking through the crowds in the hopes of finding Graham.

Margret has joined the Noble Seating.

"Over here, Reese!" Sabella waves at her and Lord Ian as he arrives. Then she leans back to say to Terese, "I met your brother! He's quite the musician!"

Veronica emerges from the training center with Prince Artur, with the former favoring her left arm. Seeing the crowd, she points towards the noble seating benches and ushers the Redrain prince along.

Felicia prowls into the proving grounds in her usual off-duty leathers, heading in the direction of the commoner stands to find a place to settle.

Metzger, a great grey shrike arrives, following Dominique.

3 Grayson Guardsmen, Philip, an overworked assistant, Crown Observer Barcus, Dominique arrive, following Calarian.

Felicia has joined the Commoner Stands.

Veronica has joined the Noble Seating.

Harlan nods towards Jordan and claps him on the shoulder one, saying simply, "Ever Rising." He then turns to head back towards the seating area.

Calarian has joined the Noble Seating.

Dominique has joined the Noble Seating.

Stepping out from the training center alongside Veronica, Artur blinks once or twice at the crowd of people that has formed quite so rapidly, before filing across in the direction of the noble seating and finding a free spot there.

Artur has joined the Noble Seating.

Victus scratched at the side of his head briefly a moment. "It started with one asking the other not to be a smug asshole, then some comments about being a farmboy, followed by an insinuation that one person was a liar. So and so, duel was called. I pulled my seat up to get a closer look but that was it, honestly." He lifts his shoulders in a shrug. Both this time, his arm is out of that cast!


Curran is reclining over in the commoner stands, his arms stretched out across the seat behind the bench he's sitting on. One leg is crossed over the other and a foot bounces idly as he watches the various people making their way into the Grounds.

Lethe arrives to the event and pauses a moment to look around. She pauses a moment and heads to the seating.

Ian nods to Sabella, but he gravitates towards wherever Galen and Sorrel are sitting, and settles himself down near there. Ian really wasn't built for bleachers, but he does his best with the narrow rows between chairs.

Calarian arrives with Dominique. Having come to see his cousin in the duel. Typical entourage and all of that are left aside for the moment so that the two of them can make their way towards the noble seating.

"Duke Ashford! Over here!" Fianna smiles broadly towards Harlan and motions to a clear space nearby. Craning her head around, she waves and smiles towards Dominique, "Hi Marquessa!!"

Harlan offers a faint smile towards Fianna and nods once, looking around a bit more, before heading towards the crowded noble seating.

Harlan has joined the Noble Seating.

Lumen enters without pageantry, offering a subdued smile to those she knows as she makes her way to the commoner stands.

Catching sight of someone, Ainsley stands from the noble seating and without any fanfare wanders over to the commoner seating.


Heading towards the noble seating alongside Calarian, Dominique raises her brows and offers a friendly wave. "Lady Fianna! I hope you are well!" she says, glancing towards Barric for a few moments, bowing her head before taking her seat in the stands. She tries to find a spot not too far from her cousin as she leans in and mutters something to Sorrel.

Ainsley has left the Noble Seating.

Ainsley has joined the Commoner Stands.

Tesha has joined the Noble Seating.

The Man. The Myth. The Mouth. LUUUUUUCAAAAAAAA GRRRRAAAAAAAYSON! .. comes hopping along through the crowd, because he's shoving a foot into a boot as best as he can while he moves. To his credit, he can still manage to look rather graceful while half-hopping through a mass of people, and dressing. Likely, that's practice. "I'm here! I had a very important meeting! You wouldn't believe how hard meetings are! We met, and everything!" Somewhere along the way, he manages to get his foot into his boot, and then starts tightening his swordbelt.. but not too tightly. "Hey, what's everyone doing? Is there a duel? /Who/ is dueling today? What a pleasant surprise?" He comes to a stop nearest Ian, grinning at the man, "Who're we watching, Ian?"

Reese makes her way toward the noble seating, moving with a cat-like athletic grace. She looks over to Sabella at her sister's words, giving her quick smile before taking a seat not far from he other Grayson blonde.

Having come alone tonight, Nisaa looks around the Proving Grounds for the appropriate place to seat herself. Heading towards the Commoner's seats she smiles with a dip of her head towards Lumen in greeting, then bids a hello to Jeffeth and Mirari as well.

Nisaa has joined the Commoner Stands.

Graham hadnt joined the stands either noble or commoner. He in fact had entered the grounds and moved aside. He hasnt really gotten too far though with the crowd gathering it does take a moment for his gaze to fall onto Tabitha. He will watch a moment though perhaps he either knows or guesses she's a little uneasey. The young Stonewood moves over. "Miss Tabitha." He will call her direction offering a wave in greeting. "I am glad you made it." He ponders before offering his arm politely. "Where would you like to sit?"

Ian unbuttons his coat enough to slip a flask out of an inner pocket. He gestures with it in Luca's general direction. "I just came here to have a drink," he deadpans.

Margret arrives, settles in at the noble's seating, and then looks over at the commoner seating a moment before she stands and starts over that way.

Margret has left the Noble Seating.

Reese hears her husband's words, because it is very hard not to notice Luca. She peeks over in his direction, giving him a sheepish wave.

Margret has joined the Commoner Stands.

Oaken, a massive Oakhaven bloodhound, Marie, chef of Keaton Hall, 2 Novice Keaton Huntsmen, Gigi, an apprentice physician's assistant arrive, following Reigna.

Oaken, a massive Oakhaven bloodhound, Marie, chef of Keaton Hall, 2 Novice Keaton Huntsmen, Gigi, an apprentice physician's assistant leave, following Reigna.

"Marquessa Dominique," Sorrel says brightly to her cousin, a little overwhelmed by the noise of the place. "Have you met my husband Prince Galen Thrax, the Warlord? Galen, this is my cousin, Dominique."

The Grayson servants arrive, starting to set up the a display of wine, booze and treats.

Reese drops Birch Booze Bungalow.

Reese drops Ashwood Liquor Cabinet.

Reese drops a stylish mahogany-framed bar buffet.


Terese glances up from Barric's side as Fianna calls out before it becomes a back and forth with Kia and then Barric. One knee slips over the other before her form turns towards Sabella and a smile tugs at her lips, "He is indeed! Far more gifted in the arts than I ever was."

Jordan nods to Victus slowly. Seems like a pretty accurate, if brief, account of events on his end. Looking over to Luca, he starts laughing out loud, shaking his head in amusement. "I'll say, that's an amusing opponent." Inverting the grip of his sword for a moment, the rests the tip on the ground and utters a quiet prayer to Gloria, his thumb going over one knuckle, then the other. He stops at the third knuckle and nods again.

They also set up tea, because every duel needs tea!

Reese drops a lovely walnut tea cart.

Nisaa looks down towards the Dueling ring and smiles at Jordan. Lifting a delicate hand, she gives him a gentle wave, should he look her way.

Sir Rhys, a Valardin Knight, Laurene, a military adjutant arrive, following Alis.

Jordan smiles over at Nisaa, of course, lifting his hand in greeting.

"Thank you, Marquessa, I'm doing great! I hope you're doing equally well!" Fianna calls out in return before turning once more to start looking around at all the gathering people. Luca's entrance gets a grin and delighted laugh from the Crovane lady before she settles back in.


Making her way towards her cousin, Dominique curtsies and bows her head low. "A pleasure to meet you, Prince Galen. My apologies for not being able to attend your nuptials, I heard it was lovely." she continues with a warm smile. "Cousin, are you familiar with Prince Calarian Grayson?" she asks, motioning in the direction of her companion.

Eirene has her bourbon flask with her and ready to go. Who needs tea, when you can have a smooth bit of liquor.

Crow - Thraxian Steward arrives, delivering a message to Astraea before departing.


Tesha manages to sneak in after Calarian and Dominique. Apparently the Telmar had decided to leave the grounds to see the Duel after all. She gives a respectful dip of her head to those that she knows and a smile of greeting before she takes her seat in the nobles seating. She gives a look about to see if any of her family is there, mainly an Ansel, but sees he is missing for the moment.


Reese looks over to Eirene as she pulls out the flask. "Do you wan me to get you a mug of some warm peach tea?" She says toward the healer.

Tabitha waves and smiles as Graham approaches, giving one of her customary little sort-of-curtsy ankle-dip things when he's near enough for it to be seen. Smiling sweetly, but with a tint of nervousness around her expression as people move around her, she says, "Lord Graham! I'm glad that I could make it." Taking his arm gracefully, perhaps like he's an island of safety in a stormy sea, she blinks a couple of times at his question, with a considering tilt of her head. "I'm not sure which stands I should be sitting at."

Luca nudges Ian, just a little playfully, "Don't you hate when you're trying to have a drink, and a duel breaks out? How exhausting. I'm glad you're here to break out into drinking in the middle of a fight. We need a balance around here." and then he's off to gallavant around a bit more, but he does stop, turn to Ian and say, "Ian, don't be so somber.", before he's going again. He stops near Barric, pats the man briskly on the shoulder, and and grins at him, "Barric! Fancy meeting you here. You knew about this thing and you didn't invite me?" before leaning in to listen to something, with a nod. He can't HELP but catch sight of Reese, with her sheepish little wave, and he blows her a kiss, moving more toward the center of the area.

Alis does a sort of half waddle, wedged between Sir Rhys and Laurene as they make their way to the proving grounds to watch this duel. Wherever the nearest pocket of Valardinians are, that's where she's headed! "Hello! Pardon me, sorry.. just want to squeeze through. There." Eventually she will get where she wants to be.

Eirene hisses in a breath of air through her teeth as she weighs Reese's offer. "Yeah, I should cut this," She says with EXTREME reluctance. "Peach and bourbon isn't a bad combination anyhow." She consoles herself.

"Tabitha!" Jeffeth calls out from the commoner stands. Waving her over to where he, Mirari and Nisaa sit. "Come join us!"


The quiet words from the man at her side brings Terese's azure gaze back around with an arc of a slender dark brow. The facade is difficult to maintain as a chuckle escapes her lips for Barric's words. It is followed by a slight shake of her head that sets the dark upsweep of her pinned tresses aquiver and allows a few strays to fall about her temples. She inclines herself toward him, lips moving beneath the din of the crowd while her gaze moves towards the ring.

Atila arrives, following Signe.

Reese smiles when the kisses the is blown by Luca. She makes a show of catching such by reaching out with her gloved handed. Reese then turns her attention back to Eirene, giving her a nod. Always eager to encourage less booze, she goes to get a mug of peach tea from the cart. This tea cart was probably Reese's idea.

The corner of Ian's mouth quirks, but in (belated) respect to the gravity of the occasion, he doesn't push the banter any farther forward. Either that or he'd rather drink than talk. Also possible.

Crow - Thraxian Steward arrives, delivering a message to Astraea before departing.

When Harlan comes in Barric stands up and offers a polite nod to the man but then turns away when the Duke goes to sit elsewhere. He smiles though when Luca arrives and goes to speak a few words to him quietly and gives the other man a grin and then says, "We put this surprise party together for you Luca, because it'd been to long since the last time you had a chance to show off officially." With a grin towards the other Prince. Then he moves back towards the judges seating area but on the way back he pauses and calls out:

"Thank you one and all for coming to this display of personal combat! Here before your eyes and the eyes of the Gods, the dispute between myself and Duke Ashford will be decided well and truely, once and for all. In the meantime, please make yourselves comfortable, for we are all equal before the Gods tonight!"

Barric smiles widely to the stands, noble and commoner alike.

"Please enjoy these refreshments as well as you enjoy the duel about to begin."

Barric gestures Luca over towards where Jordan waits, "Your opponent is over there Luca." And he grins wider before he says loudly again:

"When the Champions are ready!" And Barric gestures towards the pit.


"I'm right here by the way." Victus calls out to Astraea as he sends Crow over, holding his hand up from the noble seating.

"A pleasure to meet you, Your Highness," Calarian offers to Sorrel when Dominique introduces them. "A pleasure to meet you as well, Your Highness" he offers to Galen greeting the married couple as he takes his seat next to Dominique. "I hope if nothing else we can see an honorable and interesting duel. The weather certainly couldn't be any better for it..."

"Do duels in Arx generally sound like sporting spectacles?" Jordan asks outloud, frowning in confusion. "I wasn't aware this is a rite to gloria." What?

Philippe arrives on a cob, small but stout horse you expect for driving a cart and not a count's leisure riding. He does not dismount, instead parks himself somewhere he can watch and still let the horse shift about without bothering anyone. The older knight was curious to watch Sir Jordan fight.

Reese carries the tea very very carefully back to the noble seating area. She takes this tea delivery task quite seriously. She then hands the mug over to Eirene. "I'm always trying to get Luca to cut his booze with tea too." She says a bit uncertainly, maybe attempt doesn't work all that well.

Saoirse lifts her glass when Luca makes his entrance then leans in to whisper to Luca's wife.

Signe arrives as another witness to the duel. She's weaving through the gathered spectators attempting to be cautious as shoulders brushed. Ever so often a polite "Excuse me.." is uttered until she reaches the noble's seating.

Philippe has joined the Melee Grounds.

Signe has joined the Noble Seating.

Trying to stick to the out of the way areas of the Proving Grounds proved a silly notion. Messengers and their blasted sorcerous ways! Astraea smiles kindly to the crow and begins walking towards the noble seating. "Your Grace. Thank you for the invitiation, I'll be up in just a jiff." Sure enough it took her a few confidant steps as she ascends.

Astraea has joined the Noble Seating.

Glancing around the area as he waits for things to begin in earnest, Artur actually sends a couple of messengers winging about the place before he catches sight of Astraea and Elgana amongst the crowd. Popping up to his feet whistling sharply before raising his hands above his head and giving them a great big wave, just so they know where he is and everything.

Alis has joined the Noble Seating.

Reese seems a bit annoyed at whatever Saoirse whispered. She murmurs something softly back.

Harlan calls out towards Jordan, "Everyone is here to see your skill. It is still an honorable duel." No harm in flattery, right? Right?

Turns at the sound of her name, looking around the crowd with quirk turns of her head. Noticing Jeffeth, she lifts a hand in a wave, beaming with delight, then raising her finger in a quick 'just a second, be right with you' gesture.

Astraea waves back to Artur, grinning as she does. "I see you cousin! You have been noticed."

Eirene has.... tea. With bourbon poured generously into it. But still tea. She salutes Reese and then the champions and drinks.

Reese looks over to Astraea, having a warm smile of greeting for her that touches her blue eyes.

Luca walks over to Jordan, "They're not sport, friend. They're a party. Put your party face on, now." and he swings around a little bit, to where the crowds are gathered, "I'd just like to say, it's a pleasure to be here. I'm a little worn out from getting dressed, and I had a rather vicious nap before thi--.. err.. before the meeting that almost made me late. That really took a lot out of me. So I'm going to go ahead and smack swords around with Sir Jordan here, and we both assure you any aggression is sincerely just a dramatic fiction." He grins, waving at someone, and then at another someone. "Also, remember that duels like these aren't possible without supporting your local CHAMPION'S GUILD. So remember to go along and do that, at some point. Nevermind that Jordan's not a Champion! He's a Champion to.. whoever hired him! The other party! And he's a Champion in my heart." Then he turns, giving Jordan a look.

"Fair enough, my Lord," Jordan inclines his head to Harlan, with a bright smile. But Luca's ... speech sort of prompts another laugh from his competitor. "Good to know that, Prince Luca, good to know that." There's a pause as the knight straightens, ready to fight that damn duel. Steel versus steel, apparently.

Barric nods towards Jordan and then Luca and then he gestures, "BEGIN!" And he retakes his seat, murmuring to Terese as he watches the duel from the judges seating.

Tesha has never been to a duel, so all of the people here to witness it are a surprise to her. There's a look over the dueling ground and a look to Jordan, who has been training at the Gauntlet for the last few days. Harlans words draw a smile from the Telmar woman, but she remains quiet. She didn't have a favored duelist at the moment.

Sorrel has left the Noble Seating.

Teonia Redreef have been dismissed.

4 Thrax Guards have been dismissed.

Aryka Wyrmfang have been dismissed.

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

Luca takes minor damage.

Dagon calls out towards Luca, just to tease the man. "Caspian makes a better entrance." before the fight begins. Then he leans back in his chair once the actual fighting begins.

"Come on Luca," Eirene calls out loudly. "I'm drinking thrice damned tea for you, you better win!"

Luca takes minor damage.

"Fuck 'em up! Fuck 'em up!" Victus begins to call in earnest, cheering on nobody in particular. Just the spectacle of combat really.

Reese edges forward and is perched tautly in her seat, looking all interested and maybe just a little nervous. "Go Luca, kick some ass!" She says wincing just a bit as he gets hit a few times.

Jeffeth is yelling random maneuvers and suggestions for footing that don't really matter in the long run. But he's yelling them enthusiastically.

Nisaa turns her attention from speaking with those she sits near to look at the beginning fight. She claps her hands together and calls out in her accented voice, "Go Sir Jordan!"

From the Commoner Stands, Lumen shifts away from Ainsley beside her with an offended gasp, hand coming up protect her hair. With a look of defiance, she stands up to clap along with Nisaa. "Sir Jordan! Go, Sir Jordan!"

Philippe wearing a hunting attire, scarlet colored hunting coat, white breeches, black boots, and a hat, the count continues to watch the duel from his side of the field. The horse stopping in place. Bluish grey eyes study the fighters, nodding approvingly towards Jordan when the knight land hits.

Tabitha gives Graham the gentlest of pats on the arm, directing a warm smile his way. "We must dance later," she says brightly before she begins to move towards the commoner stands, "See you in a little while, my lord."

Tabitha has joined the Commoner Stands.

Luca takes minor damage.

Graham smiles to his side in encouraging way. He will motion "There are common and noble stands but you are with me so id imagine welcomed either way." he wont move though leaning to speak so he can lower his voice "Wherever you would be most comfortable."

Luca takes very serious damage.

Jordan checked composure at difficulty 10, rolling 0 higher.

Philippe is overheard praising Jordan for: Hmm.

Barric is overheard praising Jordan for: Well fought!

Harlan is overheard praising Jordan for: Ever Rising, and well fought!

Barric is overheard praising Luca for: Less alcohol next time!

Harlan is overheard praising Luca for: Well fought, Prince.

Ainsley is overheard praising Jordan for: Excellent champion, serves his house well!

Nisaa jumps a little on her slippered feet as she cheers and claps! "Jordan! Woo!"

"OH SHIT!!" Fianna leaps to her ffeet and grabs at the rail of the noble seating. "That was crazy and -awesome-!!!"

Eirene is overheard praising Jordan for: Just be sure you leave him pretty.

Lumen is overheard praising Jordan for: And he's humble, too.

Ainsley is overheard praising Luca for: Excellent champion! Well fought!

Duarte is overheard praising Jordan for: Looks like there's a new sheriff in town.

Dominique is overheard praising Jordan for: That was rather impressive.

Reese is still perched on the edge of her seat and watching the spar with all this intense interest. She winces when Luca is hit with such force, looking concerned about the injury. She looks over to Eirene as hopefully for help for her husband. "I think he is badly injured."

Reese is overheard praising Jordan for: Woots, well fought

Dagon is overheard praising Jordan for: Well fought duel.

Reese is overheard praising Luca for: The best showman

Luca is overheard praising Jordan for: That's some swordsmanship!

Calarian is overheard praising Jordan for: Well fought!

Alis is overheard praising Jordan for: Impressively done!

Nisaa is overheard praising Jordan for: A brilliant fighter!

Philippe is overheard praising Harlan for: You have a mighty knight, my lord.

Jordan is overheard praising Luca for: Amazing man

Terese is overheard praising Jordan for: Well fought

Alis is overheard praising Luca for: Well fought!

Eirene spills her tea as she stands for the fight. Luckily leather protects against hot peach beverages but she does smell of it. "If there's no Mercy about I'll do it, Ribbons," she promises Reese.

For all his insistence that he's here to drink, Ian loses interest in his flask when the duel begins. He leans forward watching the exchange with sharp eyes.

Signe is overheard praising Luca for: Talented and very skilled!

Tesha is overheard praising Jordan for: That was very impressive.

Terese is overheard praising Luca for: Excellent falling down and well fought!

Tabitha is overheard praising Luca for: Well fought!

Signe is overheard praising Jordan for: Intelligent fighter!


Looking over at the last hit, Dominique stands up and peers over at the sands. She glances in Reese's direction as she bites on her bottom lip. "He looks... hurt. Will he be okay?" There's a slight frown there.

Tesha is overheard praising Luca for: Well fought, Prince Luca!

Dominique is overheard praising Luca for: Well fought!

Saoirse was MID SENTENCE when Luca takes that awful hit. She flinches backwards, then stares at the pit with wide eyes. "My." Your indeed.

"Well goddamn!" Victus' laughter pours forth, rough and loud and his calloused hands clap a few times in slow succession. "Guess we got our answer!"

In the unlikeliest turn of events ever to happen in the history of Arvani dueling, Jordan and Luca square off in single combat. It's strange, and unlikely, but the knight's sword clashes with Luca's, and he seems fast, landing one blow, then another, both are weak and do not much but keep the Grayson back. His eyes are widened, the farmboy-turned-knight's, that is, but he's alert, and he shuffles forward to continue striking. One slice, then an overhead chop, then a jab, and he's parried, frustrated by armor, and otherwise made to tire... except fortune must smile upon him, today.

Because Luca starts getting tired faster, and soon enough the knight of Ashford's attacks are starting to press an advantage to the point a simple thrust to Luca's shoulder draws the much needed first-blood to stop the fighting. He pulls the sword clear, and when the crimson is seen, he's almost in shock. "Oh, shit. I'm sorry, Your Highness," he tells his opponent, lifting the blade for proof.

Dagon stands from his seat, then something said there makes him nod. "Then you might want to go and check on him, just to make sure." and Dagon would, if necessary, make a path down to the fighting grounds, so that Lady Eirene could at least check to make sure that Luca wasn't going to bleed out on them. He does grab some tea on his way, not for himself, of course. No. It would be offered to the Prince once he was close enough. At least, if Luca is still conscious.

Duarte has left the Commoner Stands.

Orland leaves, following Duarte.

Reese looks over to Eirene, seemingly relieved by her words. She then turns her attention to Dominique giving her a nod. "I think so." She says, but sounds a little nervous, like she always is when Luca gets hurt.

Harlan simply nods once as Jordan lands that hit -- but he doesn't say anything, or do anything else, although he seems gglad to see Eirene heading to check on Luca.

Luca lifts his saber, and meets Sir Jordan in the middle, using both hands on his blade and whirling through a couple of close swings, while also bringing his own a little too high, a little too low. He's aggressive at first, until he begins to tire a little, and strikes begin to grow a touch sloppier here and there. More parries, less dancing. Could it be that he actually did wear himself out on a pre-duel nap? Only Luca. It's really the feel of a sword in his shoulder that wakes him up a touch, and his dark eyes snap open. That's a lot of pain, right there. It's writ across his face. He almost looks as surprised as Jordan is, but the apology from his opponent makes him laugh. It's a touch of a strained laugh, because only crazy people laugh through swords wounds. "Oh, shit." he echoes Jordan's sentiment, but once he gets a look at it, he assures the knight, "No no, it's fine. This is just foreplay. But the rule is you have to kiss it better, I think. That's polite." Then he winces.

Philippe wasn't amused by all the spectacle before the duel, his face a fixed scowl and lips stretched into a thin line all through the fight until Jordan cuts the Prince with a serious blow, ending the duel quicker than it began. The count's gaze drifts about the banners, seeking the face of Sir Jordan's liege to pay his respects from afar. Philippe looks back down to the dueling ring.

Smiling brightly up at Tabitha, Jeffeth murmurs quietly to Mirari before standing up. He smiles over to Tabitha. "I'll be right back, need to pop over to the silks, really quickly."

Reese looks over to Dagon, giving him a grateful smile that touches her blue eyes, but is on the somber side. Reese can be way too serious and certainly while Luca is bleeding is not a time when she will start being light hearted. She looks toward Astraea upon feeling the blonde's bear arm around her waiste. "Okay" She says in her direction, starting to rise from the noble seating with her.

Settles down to watch the combat as things begin in earnest, warm brown eyes flicking from one combatant to the other as the first blows are exchanged. For all his usual restless energy, Artur watches with keen interest, wincing a little as that final blow gets struck. A slight frown forms, though when everyone seems to be alright for the most part, or at least not injured in an immediately critical way, Artur claps his hands in recognition of the winner.

Jeffeth has left the Commoner Stands.

Jeffeth has joined the Noble Seating.

Lethe has left the Noble Seating.

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

Mirari glances at Tabitha, giving her an awkward wave hello. "Good evening." She says, gesturing to the seat Jeffeth just abandoned. "Sit, if you would like."

Ian raises his eyebrows at the conclusion of the match. He takes a drink from his flask, and then hands it to Eirene. "Take him that, if you're going down there." Because Ian apparently can't be bothered.

Ainsley lifts his hands, "Good fight!" He claps for both of the champions, whistling just a little bit.

"Don't worry, Reese," Sabella assures her sister, "If he can flirt, he's fine. And it's Luca, so you know he had no pride to bruise!"

"I'm not kissing any fucking thing better," Eirene says in her coarse fashion as she makes her way down through the crowds. The lanky woman in black leather is already pulling a healer's kit out of her large beltpurse when Ian hands her the flask. "Lemme see where he nicked you, Prince Luca," she inquires as she passes the offering along. She looks up at Jordan and nods. "Good bladework, she compliments roughly.

"Kiss it better?" Jordan considers, sheathing the sword. "Uh, are you sure, my Lord? Maybe we can bring your wife over to kiss it better?" He's out looking for Reese, now, still extremely confused, a look of 'WTF' on his face is probably the most honest way to say it. "Come on, Your Highness, let's go find you a healer. Something like that."

Signe has left the Noble Seating.

Barric silently watches the duel once it begins, no clapping, no oo's and ah's, just watching. No commentary for this one but when the duel ends in such dramatic fashion Barric is standing up and gesturing towards the healers on hand to be ready should Luca show signs of needing their attention. Or whomever else might be medically trained that is going to go attend to Luca's wound.

"Well fought!" Barric calls out to the two duelists, "Sir Ober, Prince Luca, thank you for the honor of performing as Champions in this duel!" He bows deeply towards the two Champions then steps away from the judging table.

"Duke Ashford!" Barric calls out, "Sir Jordan Ober!", then, "And to Dame Morrighan!" Even though she isn't present. "I offer my humblest apology. While it was not my intent, I spoke poorly and did not take the time to see things right when I should have. I apologize for calling Sir Ober, and Dame Morrighan liars. This misunderstanding and my insult has put a rift where we need none to be. Again, I apologize." And he bows again.

Jordan nods to Eirene, also. "Thank you, my Lady."

Smiling, Lumen claps along with Ainsley. She even whistles the once. It's way better than his. She's better at whistling.

Harlan stands and bows towards the judges area, where Barric is, "I, and House Ashford, accept your apology, Prince Barric. I appreciate your honor, Your Highness."

Of course Lumie is better at whistling. But Ainsley is DEF better at clapping. He adds a couple of stomps of his feet too.

Reese looks over to Sabella, giving her a nod. She then gives Luca a close study as if trying to see if he is flirting! She murmurs softly to Jeffeth. Reese then starts with Astraea toward the cabinet of booze. "He really needs to drink less, but he right now he probably does need a drink." She says and pulls a bottle of whiskey from such.

Atila leaves, following Signe.

Reese gets a heavy bottle of Stone Mountain white whiskey from Ashwood Liquor Cabinet.

Terese's gaze remains upon the pair within the ring, watching the dance as they whorl about each other. Her demeanor quiet once the duel had truly begun. She remains at ease through the fight watching the movements of each and the dust that is kicked up around them. A quiet fire alights in her azure gaze for each. At the first draw of blood her gaze flicks to Luca's shoulders though it seems well in hand between the two men and others that move to assist. She remains seated for a moment as he rises to address the combatants and the crowd before rising herself after both Barric and Harlan speak. To the ring she calls out, "Well fought!" with a fierce smile of appreciation to each of them.

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

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

Astraea almost bumps into Jeffeth on the way down, smiling to the burly knight. "Yes! Now a good time?"

Tesha gives a look to the dueling ring when Barric speaks up and there's a bit of a nod of her head when the Grayson Prince apologizes. "Well this was exciting." she admits as she stands. "I think it's time to head back to Telmar Tower, before there's more excitement this evening." she states as she gives a nod to those that she knows. There's a smile to Jeffeth as well as she passes him.

2 Kennex corsairs, Chief Rin Redreef arrive, following Catalana.

Reese makes her way with a bottle of whiskey and with a blonde bear princess. She is heading in the direction of Luca. She crouches down nearby, but makes sure not to get in the way of Eirene's healing efforts. Reese sets the whiskey near by. She then sits fully on the ground and soft sigh escapes her lips. "That looks like it hurt, Nimble."

Dagon shrugs, and drinks the tea himself, with all of those bringing flasks and liquor for poor Luca. Leaving him to the tender mercies of feminine hands, the Duke takes himself out of the area, giving them room to work. Heading out and moving to depart, moving slow enough that he can slip through the crowd where needed, as well as step aside for those just arriving.

Tesha has left the Noble Seating.

Barric bows his head politely at the recognition of his apology then calls out:

"Thank you all for coming to witness this challenge, and it's stunning conclusion! Have a good night!"

Then Barric looks over towards Luca, but it seems he is being tended to. He settles back into his seat to speak with Terese, waiting for the crowd to clear out around Luca before he goes to add another person to that particular crowd.

Alis doesn't stay long once the fighting is over, leaning just a little to murmur something to Dominique before she start trying to weave her way out of the thick crowd to wander back towards the Manor.

Jordan scratches his head, and heads on over to settle down beside Harlan. He's still in shock.

Mirari gets to her feet, wiggling her fingers at Tabitha as she offers the woman a friendly smile. She walks down the stands and joins Jeffeth.

Alis has left the Noble Seating.

Sir Rhys, a Valardin Knight, Laurene, a military adjutant leave, following Alis.

Jeffeth has left the Noble Seating.

Mirari has left the Commoner Stands.

Astraea has left the Noble Seating.

Mirari, Astraea leave, following Jeffeth.

Dagon has left the Noble Seating.

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

"Good fight, Sir Jordan. Duke Harlan, you chose your Champion well." Sabella comments to the two of them. "It was kind of fun to see Luca lose, I must admit."

Ian doesn't make a move to go anywhere. And thanks to having sent his flask with Eirene to Luca, he doesn't have anything to drink, either. Hopefully, Luca will appreciate the sacrifice.

"Ahhh, what a match." Victus comments satisfied, motion to his stewardess to come and sit by him a moment. "There's another big fight later, right? Supposed to be another good one...?" Some whispered words are traded a moment. "... It's a DANCE-OFF? The fuck?"

Catalana seemed to be feeling better....or just sneaking out of where she's supposed to be. But the air around her screamed happiness. Her hand on that growing belly she walks in with a woman that looks pretty darn similar to her. Leaning over she chuckles a bit...thought not much since both women were six feet tall. "Jan I'm so freaking happy you're here....." Beaming she chuckles a bit. "I think Wash is going to die...."

Miella, a dark-haired shop apprentice arrives, delivering a message to Tabitha before departing.

Harlan nods towards Sabella, and says, "He has been a stalwart knight of my House, Princess. A bit rough, to be sure -- I have him reading etiquette books -- but ... I have high hopes."

Eirene rolls her eyes as she overhears Victus. "What, don't approve of that ancient and noble-- the fuck am I kidding, I can't even joke about that."

Niklas looks down at the bottle of Kennex Crystal he keeps for emergencies, agonizes SO HARD, then passes it over to Ian. "You did a nice thing, cos." Then he looks up and his eyes go wide. "Hey, is that Jan? Oh, oh, I'm gonna go hug her and then run away!"

Luca laughs at the look on Jordan's face, "No, I was just kidding. You don't have to kiss it better. I mean, you can, but it's not /needed/. I have a lovely wife for that sort of thing." He smiles at Eirene as she approaches, "Look at you, nice and prompt. The first woman I always want to see when I've taken a wound to the shoulder. Does anyone have any alcohol?" He shifts a little more when Reese is there then, "Ah, there's the wound-kisser now."

Eirene has handed Ian's flask to Luca so there is no shortage of booze he can choose from. "I'm Eirene Malvici," she says to Jordan as she starts unbuckling Luca's shoulders so she can see the wound. "Assistant Guildmaster of the Physician's guild, and Brigadier General of the Malvici battle medic Phoenix division." Her credentials, as it were. She pulls out a clean rag and starts to wipe the blood away. Gruff voice, gentle hands. "It's not going to leave any really interesting scars, sorry yer Highness," she tells Luca, tongue clicking sadly.

Jan glances sidelong at her sister, Catalana. She's trying to curtail her pace some, because apparently she feels someone pregnant is going to move slower. "He better not die and leave you alone with a whelp. I'd have to raise him from the dead and kill him again." There is an incoming hug. She is unaware.