The arena at the Golden Hart is filling with people who wish to witness the outcome of the challenge issued by Lady Medeia Saik to Prince Theo Velenosa. Though there are not designated spots in the seating, onlookers seem to have naturally fallen into three groups if one listens to the chatter among them: those who support Medeia's challenge, those who support Theo's defense, and those who just want to be entertained this fine afternoon. The drinks are flowing from the bar, and already, the event is shaping up to be a lively one!

Among a small group at the side of the ring of valor, Medeia stands dwarfed beside Jeffeth, her chosen Champion for the challenge. She can be seen tucking a bit of something - likely a favor - into the man's large hand as the time for the duel to begin nears. The lady is holding herself with an almost regal ease, confident and with a light smile curving her lips. Her hazel eyes dart to Theo and Mattheu, smile widening a touch, when an attendant rings the bell to signal the start. Medeia steps forward and lifts her voice to crowd, offering a greeting, "Hello everyone, thank you for being here to witness. I am Lady Medeia Saik, the challenger, and this is Sir Jeffeth Bayweather, my Champion in this matter. I have challenged His Highness for insulting the hard work of myself and Saikland's vintners while enjoying the hospitality at Saik Tower." Then, the lady cedes the floor to the prince, moving off to settle into a seat at the great table beside the ring.

"Peanuts...get yer peanuts here!" calls a vendor walking around the stands.

Raven arrives, chatting with her guards which are apparently here as fellow gawkers though it seems heart someone with such a fierce title as Blackheart would have guards at all. The distinctly off duty mien suggests maybe it's just all a ploy to pay one's friends to loiter. Medeia is spied and given a wave and a knowing grin-apparent approval for the Lady's choice in champion. She scans the crowd, apparently seeking out someone.

Aconite has joined the upper rafters.

Fatima arrives and finds a seat among those who just wish to be entertained. She's not taking sides on this one! The Princess settles into a seat, and orders a glass of wine brought, her guards taking up positions nearby. Her maid, Mara, settles into a chair with an annoyed huff, and starts working on her embroidery.

Fatima has joined the ringside table.

The peanut vendor stops in front of Fatima's maid, Mara, and obnoxiously sticks a bag of peanuts between her face and the embroidery, "Peanuts?"

Aco slides smoothly into the back of Medeia's group just as the event is about to kick off, smiling when she spots MEdeia and Jeffeth. Alejandro sits beside the Whisper, wearing an uncharacteristically eager expression. The Torean Champion's excitement is palpable, a far cry from his usual air of indifference. After side-eyeing the vendor, Aco straightens up, adjusting her position to get a better view of everything that's about to unfold.

"Looks like this is going to be quite the show," Aco remarks, her eyes scanning the bustling surroundings.

Alejandro nods in agreement, a faint spark of enthusiasm in his eyes. "Absolutely."

As the event commences, they both lean in, fully engrossed, sharing in the anticipation and thrill of the moment.

Mara eyes the peanut vendor, while trying to fend him off with her sewing needle. "Please do take your peanuts elsewhere," the maid grouses.

A small troupe of Rivenshari show up with their own supplied snacks and drinks, taking up front row of the cheap seats. They're climb into the upper rafters carries full song of bells jingling as they call out to the peanuts vendor to send /All/ of the peanuts up to them.

Jeffeth walks with a confident swagger toward the arena. He is attended by no less than three persons. One is feeding him a straw that extends into a clear chalice filled with purple-ish liquid. Another is rubbing down his arm with oil - the large knight is covered in oil (grease?) and looks very slippery! And a third is walking ahead of him, urging the crowd to stand and applaud the massive champion.

Jeffeth stops center ring and dismisses his entourage. He holds a bottle of Saik wine and a wine glass. They are both smaller than normal size, but crafted to scale, to enhance the hulking appearance of his already massive size. He lifts his chin and soaks up the applause from the hundreds...and HUNDREDS...of Jeffeth fans in the stands, waiting for it to die down before he begins to speak!

"Folks! Friends! I am often asked: Sir Jeffeth! How are you so big and strong?" He strikes a pose and flexes his muscles that appear themselves to also flex muscles, with muscles. "And I tell them the truth! When I was a babe, my mother nursed me with Saikland Greens wine from her own bosom!" He nods, "It's true...It's true!"

But that's not all... "They ask, Sir Jeffeth - how are you so fast? And I answer true - I soak my feet every night in wine from Saikland Greens!" He nods , eyes big, "Oh, it's true!"

"And they ask me - they say, 'Sir Jeffeth! Why do you smell so so good?!" He holds up the bottle, "And I tell the truth! It is because every morning I spritz my pulse-points with Saik wine!"

"They ask 'Sir Jeffeth. How are you so spry?!" The large knight does a cartwheel, a back handspring and then a flip. Landing without error or sweat, he asserts the truth - "Because I don't drink water. When I am thirsty I only sip upon Saik wine!"

He pivots and points a thick finger at Theo, "And so when I heard of Prince Theo's lackluster review of Saik wine, I was aghast! For I know that Saik wine is better than /not terrible/, it's /good/!"

"And before Gods and persons, I will defend its honor! Let my testimony stand and be proven in the art of battle before the Gods : Saik Wine is not 'not terrible'!"

With that he pours the tiny bottle of Saik Wine into the tiny glass and slurps it all down, with pinky extended, and then lets out a loud, satisfied, arena-rattling 'ahhhhhhhhhhhh.'

Raven's questing gaze is waylaid by Sir Jeffeth's arrival and she grins. She moves around to find a seat with moonsilver watching from somewhere above and her guards on either side of her chatting amongst themselves like a gaggle of ladies in waiting. With distinct amusement Raven makes a brief comment to her companions and taps the side of her nose and points towards the charismatic champion.

The vendors have united to form a human-chain as they pass bag after bag of peanuts down along that chain to the Rivensharis.

Medeia's gaze briefly shifts off of Jeffeth, Theo, and Mattheu to scan the crowd. She gives Raven a nod when spotted, then Fatima and Aconite (and Alejandro!) each get finger waves of greeting. Then, she's snapping her attention back to Jeffeth, eyes widening with each new claim he makes. By the time he has extended his pinky, she is laughing - pink-cheeked and hands clasped in delight at the man's presence. "Hear hear!" She agrees! Of course she does!

From opposite end of the arena stands Mattheu Rivenshari, his arms folded over chest as he watches Jeffeth's entry. Not to be distracted when his clan take to climbing into the cheap seats. A soft laugh finds itself echoing through the Golden Hart's Arena as he allows his competition to make first entry.

His own entourage dressed in collection of bright colors upon combination of flaxen and seasilk tunics with scarves and bells tied to clothing. A nod to Prince Theo before turning to make his walk to center of the Ring of Valor.

Mattheu's walk is accompanied with soft song of bells towards center ring, a flourished bow towards Jeffeth as Mattheu begins to pull the colorfully dyed seasilk cloak off from shoulders. Revealing lean muscles, dressed in a simple purple dyed set of flaxen trousers and sleeveless tunic with favor of embroidered fox sitting at his right hip. The only bells which remain upon Mattheu are in his hair and upon small wrapping cloth anklets. A wave of his hand as he stands from flourished bow to those in the stands, almost unknown to the crowd aside from the few that have seen him spar.

The crowd not as high of a roar as they were for Jeffeth, still, there's a small crowd which make noise with both bells and feet in stomping to cascade in song and carry over any left trying to cheer and yell.

A large bottle of Vixen's Ruby Red Reserve is pulled from small chest and handed over to Mattheu as his entourage leaves him to be within the ring. Holding the bottle of wine up, a quick flash of small knife against neck of bottle cutting it off smoothly where Mattheu takes to drinking the rich red wine in sloppy pour to his mouth, running liquid over chin and upon tunic. Smiling to his small crowd, "There's nothing better than to wake up finding yourself in a lazy anchor off the shores of Velenosa. To be able to wander a port, offer a dance, and always know you can find sun-kissed fruits within bottle. Ripe and ready for drink."

Turning in a stage stance towards Jeffeth. "My worthy opponent. Might the wines we have before us be show of what is good and what is /not terrible/ you wish us to believe that you're been fed upon saikland wines since birth? Are those muscles only for show then, you're left with an awfully small glass to drink from. How can we be sure that you're able to lift a bottle of your own?"

Ilmia has joined the corner table.

Lady Ilmia Leary has been seated in the corner with a few of her guards and she's conversing with them as they watch the Champions. There wasn't the threat that anything was going to run through the door and attack, so she looks a bit more relaxed than in other situations lately!

Prince Theo Velenosa, clad in regal attire, steps forward to respond to the challenge. His confident demeanor exudes a mix of charm and arrogance as he addresses the gathered crowd. "Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and those who simply seek a diversion on this fine afternoon," he begins, his voice projecting across the arena, "I appreciate the turnout and the enthusiasm. I stand before you not just as a prince but as a connoisseur of the finer things in life, including the exquisite beverages Saikland has to offer." Theo locks eyes with Lady Medeia for a moment before continuing, "Today, let us see who has the finest wine of all the land. I am proud to announce my own champion." Looking to the Rivenshari first when they make their presence known and he grins. But his smile is also for Mattheu. "LOrd Mattheu Rivenshari has agreed to fight for my stance on how I feel about Saikland wine. May the best champion win!" He will step back and away to let this begin. He also winks at Medeia as he finds a seat RIGHT next to her. The Champions already starting and he scurries away to not prevent them further.

Raven has joined the ringside table.

Fatima lifts a hand to return Medeia's wave as she accepts a drink from the server. She settles back in her seat then, holding the glass by the stem and taking a sip. The Princess gives a polite nod to Raven as well, in recognition. Then her eyes turn toward the ring as the two champions are introduced, and the reason for the contest stated. There is a vaguely amused smile on her lips at the grandstanding.

A server brings wine over to Medeia and Theo, presumably each gets their preferred wine. The lady speaks quietly with the prince when he sits /right/ next to her, but her attention doesn't veer away from the Champions in the ring.

Jeffeth, unfazed by Mattheu's display and critique, stands tall in the ring with a gleam in his eye and a confident grin. He responds with a booming voice that fills the arena:

"Ah, Mattheu, connoisseur of Vixen's Ruby Red Reserve, you come before me with tales of sun-kissed fruits and lazy anchors, but you miss the essence of what makes a true champion."

He lifts his small glass of Saik wine, gazing at it as if it holds ancient secrets.

"You mock my small glass, but let me tell you, it's not the size of the glass that matters..."

Gratuitous eyebrow waggling....

"This Saik wine, nurtured from the finest vines of Saikland Greens, has been my companion through battles and victories. It's not just a drink; it's a symbol of my resilience, my endurance, and my unwavering spirit."

Jeffeth takes a step closer to Mattheu, his presence dominating the ring.

"And you question my muscles, my strength? These are as real as the Saik wine that runs through my veins."

He raises his voice, addressing the crowd and Mattheu with equal fervor.

"So, Mattheu, bring your flights of beverage to oppose!"

With that, Jeffeth strikes a powerful pose, his muscles glistening.

Meanwhile, a crew of servants carry to the center of the ring a long wooden table, set with flights of wine and two chairs. On Jeffeth's side is an array of Saik Wine, and on Mattheu's is a selection of Prince Theo's favorites.

"I give you first-sip, Mattheu." Jeffeth rumbles.

Raven had just taken a sip from her flask when Sir Jeffeth gets to talking about size of glasses and eye wiggling and she sputters, turning her head away from the princess and leaning forward as she sputters and blinks-unexpected laughter causing spirits to go down the wrong pipe with the expected results.

There is a nod of thanks from Theo when wine comes for him and Medeia. He also tries to get the peanut vendor's attention so he may indulge in that to. Laughing under his breath as he listens to Jeffeth speak first. Deep blue eyes go towards Mattheu to see what HIS champion has to say about that. Confidence is shown in his body language as he watches and listens intently as he also leans in to hear Medeia's quiet words. Crossing arms before him and legs stretched out. Entertainment at its finest and he's here for it.

From nowhere, a peanut vendor! He provides Theo with a bag of peanuts ten sizes too large.

Ilmia seems to focus on the ring when things start in earnest. Not fighting was always a curious way to do duels, but she was excited that there would be no bloodshed...or would there be? Maybe someone would drop a glass. She has her own drink to focus on while her guards talk about their weeks. And she seems fine to listen to them when the Champions aren't talking.

From their vantage point in the upper gallery, Aconite chuckles softly, thoroughly entertained by each unfolding challenge. Alejandro joins in, his smile radiating genuine approval at the spectacle below. Still it seems both of them make a concerted effort to seamlessly merge with the other spectators, blending into the crowd that surrounds them.

There is little doubt that zmedeia is as entertained by what is unfolding as Theo is, however, hers is a les arrogant posture. She's arranged politely in her chair, legs crossed at the ankles and feet tucked back under the folds of skirt. There's a blink at the entirely-too-large bag of peanuts, but then she's focused on the flights of wine being arranged.

"A wine which runs through you as endurance?" Mattheu grins as he wipes his chin of the Vixen's Ruby Red Reserve "For any wine finer to ensure one's feet stay steady where the sea and waters might rise, I offer you the Springtide Sparkling Celebration Wine, it's in the name even! A Spring Tide seeking to keep you fortified. Filled to the brim and ready to take upon whatever the day throws at you!" A wink towards the crowd as Mattheu spins back to Jeffeth.

"Even if what is thrown is a man with muscles to show off, oiled as if he might be a prize lead towards market."

The Springtide Sparkling Celebration Wine, another large bottle nearly twice the size of the previous is lifted as Mattheu handles it with ease to pour into not wine glasses but large goblets. Bottle set aside, he lifts both goblets. Sipping from one to then hand it over to Jeffeth. Describing the taste, "You ask for fruits so fresh that they bottled them where the wine sparkles in seek to share its rose to your lips? Sugars, pears, strawberries left to dance with limes. If this doesn't give you a lift for feet then you're left to the ports."

There's laughter that erupts from Theo as he listens to Mattheu. His deep blue eyes sparkle and yes, yes, he is applauding for his champion. Looking around for his supporters and he gives them looks as if to say, 'applaud, you know it was good.' Another peanut gets popped into his mouth and his wine glass that had been on the table finally gets lifted and he salutes Mattheu with it before he's drinking. Maybe he has Springtime Sparkling Celebration Wine in his own glass. Hard to say but Theo is right there, amused and cheering on his champion. That is what you are suppose to do, right?

Fatima has left the ringside table.

3 Thrax Guards, 1 Thrax Elite Guards leave, following Fatima.

Jeffeth, with a theatrical flourish, picks up a bottle from his side - the Saik side!

He pours the deep, rich liquid into a goblet, letting it catch the light, showcasing its vibrant red hue. With a confident smirk, he addresses Mattheu and the crowd.

"Mattheu, you speak of wines that dance like the sea, light and refreshing. But let me introduce you to a true titan of wines, the Saikland Red a la Rouge. This is not just a wine; it's a statement, a testament to the power and depth of Saikland's vineyards."

He takes a slow, deliberate sip, letting the flavors envelop his senses. Wine dribbles off the sides of his goblet, down his chin and drips on his chest.

"Ah, can you taste that? It's the boldness of dark cherries, the richness of ripe plums, and a hint of spice that warms the soul like a wrestler's fiery spirit in the ring. This wine doesn't just sparkle; it roars. It's the embodiment of endurance, resilience, and unyielding strength."

Jeffeth holds the goblet aloft, his gaze intense.

"Mattheu, your Springtide may be a delightful dance of fruits and bubbles, but the Saikland Red à la Rouge is a battle cry. It's the blood of the earth, the sweat of the vine, forged in the heart of Saikland Greens and aged to perfection. It's a wine that doesn't just lift your feet; it anchors you, gives you a foundation, just like a warrior needs in the ring...in battle...in life."

He takes another sip, savoring the complex layers of the wine.

Then, he takes the second goblet of Red a la Rouge and hands it over to Mattheu.

Medeia helps herself to a peanut, carefully crushing the shell between her fingers. She gives a shrug in response to something Theo has said or asked, keeping her attention on Jeffeth. Her eyes brighten, a laugh bubbling past her lips as her Champion's claims fill the Arena.

Raven watches with an expression which oscillates between fascination and mirth. Her companions likewise seem engaged but occasionally seem surprised or amused at the Blackheart's clear delight.

Theo is invested now. Peanuts and wine forgotten as he all about leans forward in his seat to see how Mattheu handles the words that Jeffeth issued. Turning slightly when Medeia takes a turn to laugh. His lips upturn at her but then his focus is back on the ring.

Mattheu initially taken aback by Jeffeth's dramatic display, eyed the offered goblet of Saikland Red Ala Rouge with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism. The room buzzed with anticipation as he reluctantly accepted the vessel.

With a contemplative gaze, Mattheu brings the goblet to his lips, allowing the rich aroma to envelop his senses. The bold flavors dance on his palate, a stark contrast to the lightness of his favored Springtide. A thoughtful expression crosses his face as he considers the intricate tapestry of tastes woven into the Saikland Red. A swish of the liquid only to spit the glassful at Jeffeth in a spray of red liquid.

"Bold indeed. It is as if... A battle upon the taste buds."

Mattheu sets to finish his own glass of the Springtide as he smiles to Jeffeth. "Though it is far too hearty to give a true dance which a fighter needs to be able to slip from deck to deck in a fight upon the waters. Is this why knights need creatures to carry them? You're full of bold flavors to weigh down the spirit?"

With an equally skeptic stare and reluctance, Jeffeth accepted Mattheu's goblet of Springtide.

At once and together with Mattheu, he sipped from the goblet. And at once and together he spewed it out upon the challenger! A wide spray of wine showering Mattheu at the exact.same.time Mattheu spits out the Red a la Rouge.

A simultaneous release!

But his post-taste speech is not so eloquent. It is a loud, resounding, "BLECH!" and "I can still taste the feet that stamped upon the grapes!"

But the offense of being SPAT UPON shall not stand! Jeffeth upends the table, sending its content of goblets, glasses and bottles to the dirt. Then he leaps after Mattheu!

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

"You tell him, Milord!" Whoops. The Prince let his champion's words get the better of him. In fact, he so much as got out of his seat and punched the air. When he realized what it was he has done and how unbecoming that is Theo grins at the crowd and finds his seat again and can be heard telling Medeia, "You heard and saw that right? The real fun is about to begin!" Laughing when he takes note that both champions spit at each other. "So distasteful, but I love it!" Yes, Theo vocal in what he enjoys as he again looks intently when the fight truly breaks.

Medeia's eyes go wide when Theo jumps up and exclaims in excitement. "I did, yes!" Her gaze moves back to the Champions, blinking as wine (and table) goes flying.

Aco and Alejandro enthusiastically join the chorus of cheers resonating from the crowd around them, their voices blending seamlessly in support. Amidst the waves of animated encouragement, they find fleeting moments to exchange quiet words, their voices sotto in the lulls between the uproarious cheers.

Mattheu steps out of the way upon Jeffeth's lunge only to take bottle of Springtide and start drinking from it in full throat. A wave of his hand to Jeffeth as the bottle is sent sailing at the man with Mattheu lunging at him in return. "You take that back! It's Light! and Airy!"

Thea is likely late. She was probably working, which isn't surprising. At the cheering, the Countess hasn't missed the 'good stuff it seems so she hurries to get a seat.

Jeffeth swats the bottle mid flight and it sends its trajectory careening through the air toward Aconite!

The large man dives for Mattheu's legs but Mattheu is too fast and his bells are confusing! Jeffeth is also fast, but also slippery! Mattheu can't get a hold on him and the challenger's hands may now be all greasy for trying.

In seeing Thea, Theo offers her a wave in greeting. But his attention is now on the fight at hand. Grinning when he catches Mattheu's words. "This is exciting!" He tells Medeia. Because it is. "Oh no..." When he sees it has turned into a slip an slide show and that bottle going towards Aconite. If Alejandro doesn't intervene Theo will try and send one of his guards to the whisper's way.

Alberico, the Malespero aide, 1 Malespero Guard, Louis, a Malespero Armsman, Mar, the Magpie arrive, following Pasquale.

Pasquale has joined the upper rafters.

Thea has joined the ringside great table.

"My kid spits better than you!" Mattheu spins from Jeffeth's lunge picking up another bottle, this time the Saikland Red. Another small sip is given as he looks to Jeffeth. "It might be bold, but it is still a shame to waste." Then spinning bottle in his hand as they are both sprayed in the wine now. Making use of the bottle to swing at Jeffeth striking at his shoulder where the bottle bounces off of the man's large muscles.

The excitement finally gets to Medeia, and she pops up out of her seat, palms pressed flat to the table as she leans in to watch the now physical challenge. She's grinning, sparing a glance to Theo beside her. "It is," she agrees, though there is a hint of reluctance to agree with anything the prince says. How dare he be right about something, especially right now? She looks away from him quickly, allowing a small cheer for Jeffeth before welcoming Thea to the table (the better The name).

The Radiant appears preoccupied, her attention diverted until Alejandro suddenly shifts, alert to something amiss. Slowly, her hands begin to rise in surprise, almost too delayed to react. Alejandro, however, keenly observes Aconite's surroundings and swiftly intercedes, inserting himself into the path of the careening bottle. Lacking expertise in catching flying objects, the middle-aged Torean finds himself taking the bottle's impact squarely in the chest, emitting a muffled "whop" as Alejandro endeavors to catch the bottle while simultaneously regaining his breath.

"Are you alright?" Aconite asks, concern lacing her voice.

"Fine," Alejandro manages between breaths, a wince crossing his face as he attempts to recover from the unexpected collision.

Raven winces a bit sympathetically at catch but her concern passes fairly quickly.

Something fishy about that bottle as it bounces off Jeffeth and the takes an exaggerated ricochet as it flies toward Theo.

Jeffeth roars and grasps a chair! He swings it Mattheu's head where it connects and explodes into a thousand splinters - some of them spraying toward Thea! Watch out!

(Something fishy about the chair's construction as it barely fazes Mattheu at all.)

Pasquale eyes the bottle that so nearly went into the stands before cautiously taking up a seat besides Aconite.

Theo had been watching Aconite and Alejandro to see how things were faring there that he doesn't catch on there is a bottle headed his way! One of his guards steps forward and calls out, "Duck Highness!" These guards have been trained in these kind of moments. Maybe not in this kind of setup but the Velenosa guard catches it barely because of the oil on the bottle. There's a nod towards the guard from Theo and a quiet thank you. But it still does not deter the prince from watching the real fight as it progresses.

Break of a chair, splinters flying all around him. Mattheu stands up grinning to Jeffeth. A kick at the sands as he lunges at the large muscular man with a cascade of bells singing out. Finding a spot to wrap his hands to waist upon well oiled muscles his own sleeveless tunic is ripped in the process leaving lean muscles and small hints of scars visible as the Rivenshari seeks to grapple and send them both into the sands. Rolling over each other for a punch and kick as they find a bottle of wine upon the sands nearby Mattheu attempts to reach for it. "Oh. Hey! We didn't open this one!"

Alejandro moves back, bowing to Pasquale before sitting back down with a small cough. Aco continues to look concerned but he waves her off. When the Malespero Noble settles in amongst the crowd Aco leans over to say something to Pasquale, though sheis warily keeping an eye out for any more bottles.

Pasquale asks Aconite "Are they throwing a lot of bottles up here?"

Jeffeth shrimps out from underneath Mattheu after he's taken down. He underhooks the Rivenshari's leg and spins on his back to scoot himself between the challenger's legs and come out behind him! But no damage is done in the process as they continue to roll and tustle on the ground, each grappling for advantage. Until Mattheu tries to distract the gaze of the giant champion toward an unopened bottle of mystery wine.

Theo is heard murmuring to Medeia something about champions and how good these two are. Attention still on the fight as he continues to do that lean he's been doing. "I am truly amazed!"

Theo is overheard praising Jeffeth.

Theo is overheard praising Mattheu: Truly amazing. This man can fight.

Medeia's laughter comes easily, now, entirely caught up in the high-energy event as she is. She weaves a little as she stands there, as if she might gain a better view just by lifting up on her toes or leaning to the left a few inches. "Oh! Look at them!" She's in complete agreement with Theo! (Seriously, how dare he? Doesn't he know he's supposed to be wrong?) As the Champions continue to tussle on the sands, one of the lady's hands grips the prince's arm so she can steady herself while angling for a better look. She seems unaware she's done so.

Mattheu manages to wiggle free from Jeffeth's grapple of him. Legs wobbly as he seeks to crawl and stand up, finding part of the table to kick at pulling leg from the heavy table and taking hard swing at Jeffeth with it. As the leg shatters leaving a small short stick in Mattheu's hand he grins in his wobble. "You..."

There is a look to Medeia when he sees her hand on his arm but he doesn't pull away as he tells her, "I do think your champion is wavering though." Of course he says that. Medeia is suppose to be the enemy in this! "Oh look at that!" He's pointing at Mattheu and whatever the Prince's champion is to do next.

Both men have finally be landed elbows, scrapes, a few punches. Jeffeth seems to worse for it - but only slightly. He stands up and his eyes narrow at that table leg. Unfair... He straightens his posture and extends his hand, then curls his fingers in toward himself... bring it!

Medeia takes the extra leverage granted by Theo's arm to assist her in stepping onto the chair she had previously been sitting in, using the prince as an anchor while her other hand ensures her beautifully embroidered skirt doesn't get caught on anything. Once she's up, she releases her grasp and shakes her head. "He's not wavering! Hush."

Mattheu checks 'unconsciousness save' at easy. Critical Success! Mattheu is inhumanly successful in a way that defies expectations.

Mattheu remains capable of fighting.

Mattheu checks 'unconsciousness save' at normal. Mattheu is successful.

Mattheu remains capable of fighting.

Jeffeth checks 'unconsciousness save' at easy. Jeffeth is successful.

Jeffeth remains capable of fighting.

Shattered chair, table, table leg... Mattheu scrambles to find a wine that is open to drink from. Waving empty bottles which have fallen to the sands as he laughs at the swings Jeffeth takes to him. "They're all empty!" Mattheu swings with his fists to start punching at Jeffeth a search to kick him to the floors again. A charge at him and he's in the sands, rolling around where he's clobbered against remains of table only to shake off the smash his head took. A grin as he reaches to his head, "Where's all the stout constitution?"

Things get heated as the two champions beat eachother senseless with just about anything they can get their hands on!

A defining moment comes where Jeffeth lands a blow to Mattheu's body. A sharp crack can be heard that reverberates through the rafters! But even Jeffeth is stunned when Mattheu's wind is expended from his lungs that the challenger does.not.go.down! Rather, he connects an empty bottle with Jeffeth's chin! The big man has to shake it off. He now finds himself fighting two Mattheus? Three? He focuses on the middle one.

Mattheu remains standing. Theo looks hopeful as he looks from the lord and the knight. Telling Medeia, "I am glad we are not betting on this. Because this is close."

Jeffeth checks 'unconsciousness save' at easy. Jeffeth is successful.

Jeffeth remains capable of fighting.

Mattheu checks 'unconsciousness save' at normal. Mattheu is successful.

Mattheu remains capable of fighting.

Jeffeth checks 'unconsciousness save' at normal. Jeffeth is successful.

Jeffeth remains capable of fighting.

Mattheu checks 'unconsciousness save' at hard. Mattheu is successful.

Mattheu remains capable of fighting.

"Aren't we?" Medeia looks down from her vantage upon the chair to Theo. "Perhaps not in coin..." Her attention snaps back to Jeffeth and Mattheu, intently watching as the fight becomes more and more grueling for them both.

Mattheu checks 'unconsciousness save' at hard. Mattheu is successful.

Mattheu remains capable of fighting.

Mattheu checks 'unconsciousness save' at hard. Mattheu is marginally successful.

Mattheu remains capable of fighting.

Jeffeth checks 'unconsciousness save' at normal. Botch! Jeffeth fails badly.

Jeffeth is incapacitated and falls unconscious.

The way Jeffeth wails on Mattheu...But then Rivenshari, providing the room with lovely tingling bells with every smack he takes to the face...refuses to go lights out!

The battle is sure to go Jeffeth's way. Mattheu is bruised. Bleeding. Hanging to consciousness by a mere thread! Jeffeth isn't well-off, but the comparison is nothing. Surely the large champion will win this one...

Somehow, Mattheu finds the strength to endure and swings an open-palmed slap at Jeffeth that rings the big man's own bells. Open palm straight to the ear. Jeffeth blinks and topples over to the dirt.

Face smooshed in dust, Jeffeth doesn't get up. But his blue eyes lift and narrow at what Mattheu holds in his hand - the bottle he last sipped from - and a crooked finger lifts to point at it's label: Saikland Red a la Rouge...

Mattheu is wobbling, staggering /but not drunk from the wines/ he is however punch drunk. A squint of his eyes as he waves another empty bottle at Jeffeth as they take to a hug leaning against each other. Shifting his weight when they seek to push off of the other and a stagger backwards lands them both sitting upon the sands. Mattheu pushes himself up into a near crawl, charging across the sands to lunge himself in Jeffeth.

Bells in the rafters start to ring out as the Rivenshari there stomp and cheer when Mattheu screams in Ravashari and dives back at Jeffeth. As Jeffeth falls into the sands Mattheu sits upon the man's back and stares where Jeffeth points. A pat to the man's back as he slips off and falls next to him sitting upright. "It's bold..." A look at the label of the Saikland red ala rouge. "Huh... Well." A shake of his head as he picks the bottle up and tries to up end it for only a single drop to roll out and hit him in the nose.

Ilmia has been quietly observing from her corner table and there is a bit of a huh when the fight is over. She isn't sure if she is supposed to applaud yet so she does not!

Theo had not a clue how this fight was going to turn and he stayed glued to the champions. When he realized that it was Mattheu that won the prince forgets all about manners and can be heard crowing now, "I won! We won! Woooooo!" Sounding such like a little boy if he had been left to his own devices. He'd run around the areana and shout if he could but his guards are already looking at him funny.

Raven's eyebrows shoot up in clear, unmistakable surprise followed by a brief puzzled tilt of her head.

Aconite says, "I don't know, I take wine seriously." She smiles sidelong at Pasquale before turning her attention back to the hard won victory of Mattheu and prone Jeffeth. "That was quite the fight." She glances at Theo and her brows lift before she looks towards Mattheu again. "Hmm..."

Medeia gasps, hands coming up to her mouth as she watches Jeffeth fall and... not get up. Not ideal! And she looks ready to turn and congratulate Theo for the win when he /crows/. She frowns at him, gets off her chair, and moves to the sands to check on the Champions. "Do either of you need medical attention?" There's genuine concern in her voice.

Mattheu nudges Jeffeth with his foot. "Sir Jeffeth?" A very drunken wave of his hand, "Check him first. I need... There's a bottle over there that is not opened. I... We should drink."

Oh. Well then. That look from Medeia has Theo looking unsure of himself but he follows her to see how the champions are doing. He is not a healer but he has capable hands and such if Medeia needs a helper. Waiting to see what they say. He's quiet now. He already showed his gleefulness when that could have waited. A brow raises when he hears Mattheu, "Are you sure, milord?" Looking to Mattheu's guards as if they know how to handle him. This might get messy.

Thea has left the ringside great table.

A sign of life as Jeffeth's arm shakes and then makes a fist. It slams into the ground and Jeffeth gets up. The battle is over, but he doesn't break character.

"Mattheu!!!!" he rumbles and points at the man's back. A staredown. A point. Jeffeth's adoring fans stomping and hooting.

"You may have gotten lucky this time, Rivenshari, but that's all you got! You think you got me beat with your fruity wines and fancy footwork? Think again!"

He takes a deep breath and looks solemn - all for show. There is no denying that. He's even trying to stop himself from grinning. "So enjoy your victory, Mattheu. Because the next time we meet, me and Saikland Red a la Rouge?"

...

"We're bringing the storm!"

He turns to the nobles who called them to the arena today and bows stiffly to them, then stalks off and disappears...... to be spotted just a few minutes later laughing and chumming it up with Mattheu ringside.

Medeia is overheard praising Jeffeth: A true showman and a spectacular Champion.

Ilmia is overheard praising Mattheu.

Ilmia is overheard praising Jeffeth.

Jeffeth is overheard praising Mattheu.

Medeia is overheard praising Mattheu: Congratulations to the winning Champion.

Ilmia is overheard praising Theo.

Ilmia is overheard praising Medeia.

Theo is overheard praising Ilmia.

Medeia is overheard praising Theo: He's not-terrible.

Aconite is overheard praising Jeffeth.

Raven has left the ringside table.

3 Black Fleet Reavers have been dismissed.

Moonsilver, the pale-feathered raven have been dismissed.

Aconite is overheard praising Mattheu.

Aconite is overheard praising Medeia.

Aconite is overheard praising Theo.

Raven is overheard praising Mattheu.

Raven is overheard praising Jeffeth.

Theo is overheard praising Medeia: If I had to duel anyone I'd duel with her again

Seeing that the Champions are well enough, Medeia turns to Theo. "Well? Your toast. You've earned it." A bell is rung by an attendant to get the crowd's attention. The mess is cleared from the sands quickly and fresh poured glasses of Lenosian wine are brought to Theo and Medeia. She accepts the glass and waits for the prince.

Theo is overheard praising Aconite.

Pasquale gives Aconite a tiny smile. "Not as hard as Nilanzan red would have been." He moves to his feet then and starts weaving his way slowly towards the exit. "Excuse me."

Pasquale has left the upper rafters.

" Ladies and gentlemen, honored guests, and esteemed friends, if I may have your attention, I'd like to raise a toast to a beverage that embodies the essence of sophistication and refinement. Tonight, we gather not only as friends but as connoisseurs of the extraordinary, celebrating a wine that has captured the heart and palate of none other than myself." The Prince's confidence is shining through but he's smiling at Medeia so the crowd will see there are no hard feelings towards the Lady from the Prince. "In the vast tapestry of wines, Leonsian wine stands as a shimmering gem, unparalleled in its grace and complexity. Picture, if you will, the sprawling vineyards nestled in the heart of, where the grapes ripen under the watchful gaze of the sun, absorbing the essence of the land. It is from this sacred terroir that the magic of Leonsian wine unfolds. With every sip, one can taste the dedication of the vintners, the centuries-old craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations. So, let us raise our glasses high in honor of Leonsian wine, the jewel of the compact, May our glasses be forever filled with the nectar of Leonsia, a testament to the enduring legacy of craftsmanship, tradition, and the artistry that is inherent in every bottle. To Leonsian wine, to our champions both Sir Jeffeth and Lord Mattheu and to the cherished moments we create together. Cheers!" He then lifts his own glass toasts the crowd and drinks. Giving a wink to Medeia when he does this.

Raven's attention turns to Theo, eyebrow's lift and there's a delighted laugh at his toast.

"Setarco wine is better," calls out a nameless anon from the stands in the middle of Theo's toast.

Raven grins "Well. I am glad someone said it."

Jeffeth and Mattheu talk ringside as whatever the silks are doing is being done. They are passing off and sharing a bottle that... hey! That's not even wine! (it's rum)

Medeia holds her glass up, listening to Theo as he speaks. The nameless figure in the stands earns a chuckle that she covers with her other hand. She coughs, clears her throat, politely turns her attention back to Theo. She leans toward Theo to say something quietly, then looks up at him with her eyelashes batting playfully. She waits for his reaction before joining in the toast.

"You're all wrong! Lowers Malt Liquor is better!" claims another anon, who seems to enjoy drinking what many in the city use as low-cost axle grease on their wagons and carts.

"FARHAVEN WHISKEY!!!" shouts another.

"I like water...." says a meeker one.

Aconite looks at the sky and her brows lift. She and Alejandro stand and head out towards the exit.

Aconite has left the upper rafters.

Briar, the fleet and agile shrike, Alejandro, a gravely sober middle-aged Torean leave, following Aconite.

Thea listens to all the shouts and amusedly shifts her eyes to Medeia and Theo. "Look what you've started."

Mattheu points with the flask which he and Jeffeth share, "Whiskey has been growing on me." As the Rivenshari in the cheap seats all take to their own small rumble, leaving Violeta and Tregva to grab the Rivenshari guards and start settling the clan down.

"Grape juice!" ... "Orange mimosas!"

"MIIIIILLLLLLLKKKK!" resounds a loud Oathland's accent.

There is a lean in from Theo so he can listen to what Medeia is telling him. A brow raised but his smile still remains the same even with new information from her. There's murmuring coming from the Prince and it sounds like they (Prince and Lady) might even agree to like each others wine of choice.

Theo chuckles when he hears Thea. "Hey, people have spoken they all have their own preference such as myself. That is all something we can agree on."

And then there is a whole Oathlands contingent, it seems... It starts low....and builds...feet stomp... "milk...Milk...Milk...MILK...."

A couple of the Rivenshari are left to stare at the Oathlanders chanting about milk, taking to their own chant filled with laughter. "And Ginger Cookies...!"

Raven says, "I always knew oathlanders had an uncommon fixation on farm animal tits but blessed thirteen, I can't believe I underestimated the fixation."

Medeia stares at the crowd, quickly lifts her wine glass toward Theo, and takes a sip. Her part of the toast is complete! Even if she says nothing. She participated. And she looks keen to get away from the milk chant. "I think... I'm going to get away from /that/." A thumb toward the crowd. "Congratulations, Your Highness."

Concerned noble retinue are beginning to round up the higher classed peeps as a beverage riot threatens to break out in the stands...