Balian, a Templar squire, Guy, a hunting kestrel, 1 Templar Knight guards, Direhorn Jeffers, a barded Templar wargoat arrive, following Preston.

Mabelle has left the pond benches.

2 Laurent trained guards have been dismissed.

Cupcake, a cookie girl have been dismissed.

Taffy, a sweet and gentle Mistward Labrador have been dismissed.

Cookie, a darling leopard appaloosa Artshall mini horse wearing a red sweater have been dismissed.

1 Laurent veteran guards have been dismissed.

Champion, a large Oathlands Vanner, Josiah, in a backwards shirt arrive, following Gawain.

Mabelle has joined the pond benches.

Norwood has joined the Jousting Grounds.

Thea has joined the a set of chairs and benches.

Alantir has joined the Jousting Grounds.

The weather is fair and it's a pleasant spring day with just a few fluffy clouds passing by overhead. The sun warms everything it touches and the estate grounds have been set up. The field has been put together for a joust and is definitely NOT a dance floor, no matter what the room is saying that it is. Cristoph and Tyche emerge from within the estate to an already crowded grounds, but thankfully the staff has put everything together. It's not as if there's never been a joust before! The duke gets around to greeting people as they circulate, with his intention being to eventually make it down to the field itself and his waiting horse.

Drake has joined the line.

Gawain has joined the line.

Alantir has joined the line.

Alarissa has joined the pond benches.

Preston has joined the line.

Ralph the wrecking messenger goat arrives, delivering a message to Kia before departing.

Norwood has joined the line.

Cassima has joined the pond benches.

Mabelle does not joust. But people are jousting outside her window and she knows there'll be a good sport so she comes down with a mini horse to look like she belongs. She wiggles her fingers to the noisy people who came to joust with a warm smile, still tired from the events of the previous evening and finds a bench to sit upon.

Drake had said to Thea that he was having a hard time winning jousts with his other stallion. Though Cider was a fast runner and did well on the road and at steeplechase, he didn't seem sturdy enough to win a joust. Drake talked to Count Philippe about this, as Philippe is a man who provides horses. As Philippe said he should give Drake a wedding present anyway, the Count gifted Drake with a sturdier horse that goes by the name of Malt. Malt is a pale palomino Vanner with thick legs, and a remarkably vacant expression, even for a horse. As Drake is here in all his jousting gear, he's covered head to toe in shiny rubicund plate as he leads the Vanner to the lineup. The helmet at least lends Drake a little bit of authority. With him by his side is Thea, his now wife, who has already presented him with a lucky favor.

Vincenzo's making his way into the grounds clad in an outfit of umbra and silk, hands clasped behind his back. It's obvious that he's not here to joust, but there's certainly nothing wrong with observing the event. Glancing about the area, he's taking in those present, offering a smile and a wave to those that he happens to know, while the others get a little nod of his head in polite fashion.

Tyche emerges from the estate with Cristoph, and there's a small pause at the doors leading to the grounds. She's withdrawing something from a pouch, and affixing it to his armor. Whatever words accompany the giving of the favor are quiet, and spoken with a smile. Once down, Cristoph now has a SHARK on him, and the Inverno leader has wished him luck. She will slip away to let him be the master of ceremonies (and a rider) so that she might find a seat with the crowd.

NORWOOD jousts but seems buy in his own head at the moment. He is frowning over there in the corner.

Mabelle has left the pond benches.

2 Laurent trained guards, Cupcake, a cookie girl, 1 Laurent veteran guards leave, following Mabelle.

2 Laurent trained guards, Cupcake, a cookie girl, 1 Laurent veteran guards arrive, following Mabelle.

Mabelle drops A FESTIVE DRINK STAND.

Mabelle drops A FESTIVE ENTREE STAND.

Amari has joined the line.

Mabelle has joined the A FESTIVE ENTREE STAND.

Evaristo isn't here to joust, but he IS riding here - he's bringing his beautiful horse, an Ostrian gelding. The horse dances around excitedly once there, giving his rider a bit of trouble, but Evaristo solves it by simply jumping off and leading the animal to be tied up with other horses before he goes to find a seat. "Hello, hello," he greets, bowing and waving before he finds a good spot.

Cassima arrives with her entourage of guards, offering a wave towards Mabelle and again towards Vincenzo. She skirts the jousting lanes in favor of working her way around towards the pond seating that seems safely away from the horses and lances. Less chance to get hit by flying debris... or jousters! But not without a stop by the stands to look over the selection of food and drink first!

Tyche has joined the pond benches.

Alarissa's sitting by the pond at that bench when Mabelle takes a seat, a smile to the Laurent woman. "Lady Mabelle. Not a jouster?" She inquires.

Mabelle has left the A FESTIVE ENTREE STAND.

Mabelle has joined the pond benches.

Jasper, an unflappable scoundrel, 2 Redrain Guards arrive, following Deva.

Kia has never witness a joust, so it's no surprise that she makes her way to the Laurent Estate when she hears that there's to be one. From somewhere she's found herself some aeterna to wear, and there's pride to be found in the carriage of the young woman with the long flowing hair as she paces the sidelines of the arena and finds herself someplace to sit. Not too close to be in anyone's way, but not so far that she'll forfeit a decent view of the riders, she picks herself a spot on the benches and plonks herself down.

Kia has joined the pond benches.

Thea ventures in with Drake, shaking her head. "Not today, no. I'm just going to be all--supportive. I don't think my riding is,"her eyes drifting toward his horse. "Ready for that sort of action just yet. I'm better on the ground." Walking over to the the benches, she joins Philippe, bowing her head to greet others as she passes, a small smile on her lips. Finding Kia though, she offers her a wave. "Messere Kia, welcome back."

Mabelle wiggles her fingers to Vincenzo, Thea and Drake as they enter, as she shares the benches with Cassima and Alarissa, "Oh I think I better leave the physical prowess to others, or I might be haunted for being impossible", she grins at Alarissa, "How have you been, Princess?"

Philippe can't help but watch a joust. He has arrived promptly, sitting in the stands with a good view of the grounds. He has a festive beer at present and will likely send a runner to get him a festive sausage soon enough. Thea gets a courteous nod from the old count, who otherwise occupies himself with drink until the bouts begin.

Amari stands in the same corner as Norwood, and frowns even more intensely. Periodically. It's actually difficult to keep up a frown that severe consistently. Especially not when there's familiar people about to wave to and smile at. There's also Bandit, her dapple gray warhorse, trying to bite her ear every so often, so he needs to be swatted absently. Frown aside, she looks ready to joust.

Preston steps into the Laurent estate in his armour, Balian leading one of the Templar war horses across to the horse parking while Preston heads towards the gathering of people. Steadying his sword with a hand on the hilt of one, Preston reaches to unfasten his cheek guards to let them hang away from his face and he smiles towards Cristoph "Duke Laurent." Preston offers "While I am no Knight of Solace, I thought it worth coming to take part so someone could knock me from my perch."

Gawain arrives with his horse Champion - Champion's a big horse, bred to go and be big at things rather than for any sort of speed. He goes to mill about among the various other participants, gaze alight, and despite all his armour, he is all but bouncing on his feet. When he happens to see Philippe, he calls, "Hello, Uncle!"

Deva arrives on foot, not on horseback, which is probably best for everyone. Her ponytail is askew, like she's been out and active and potentially ran all the way here. She seems puzzled by a note in her hands, and more focused on reading that than finding a seat to settle into just yet.

Philippe lifts his mug in salute to Gawain. "Ride hard," he calls back to him with an affirming nod.

Amari has joined the Jousting Grounds.

Spotting Mabelle, Vincenzo is offering a quick smile in her direction, along with an incline of his head. He does shift his steps, so that he can begin to make his way in that direction. "Lady Mabelle," comes to be offered when he's close enough and then he's giving an incline of his head to Alarissa, along with, "Your Highness."

Evaristo has joined the A FESTIVE DRINK STAND.

Alantir sits atop an armored destrier, reins secured within palms and gauntlets resting idle against the warmblood's leather saddle. Though visor of helm is down and his visage is obscured, the knight appears content to remain in isolation while he waits for the tournament to begin.

Drake has joined the Jousting Grounds.

Preston has joined the Jousting Grounds.

It's a large, busy affair. But after exchanging his quiet words with the Marquessa, Cristoph has nearly made it down to the horses. He encounters a cluster of children along the way and is briefly overwhelmed. One can safely assume they're his kids if the shouting of 'papa' is any indication. Plus the oldest is literally just hanging off of him like a monkey. It's fine! It's a largely happy moment but he does eventually start peeling them off of him and passing them along back to Rupert and the nanny that's in attendance. After he manages this, his attention swings to Preston. "Carnifex, you may not be a Knight of Solace, but it's an honor to have you competing with us all the same. Thank you."

Cristoph has joined the Jousting Grounds.

Mabelle smiles easily at Alarissa, "It is a pity you missed the Jubilee, you might have enjoyed that more. I was going to ask you in the first day of winter if there will be another boat snow race, like when I first met you. With the obstacle course! That was fun, perhaps for next year?". Vincenzo earns a smile and an invitation to join them, "Hello there, so who are we betting on? Who are we cheering for?", she asks the pond benchers.

After a few moments at each stand, Cassima completes her journey to the pondside seating, her guards pressed into service carrying food and drink acquired for the entire seating arrangement! She dips a brief curtsy to Alarissa and murmurs, "High Princess, its good to see you again." She takes a seat and settles in before offering, "I secured more food and drink than I can possibly consume on my own. Would everyone care to have some? It all looked so good..." Her eyes stray towards the jousting lances and those lined up for it. She doesn't linger anywhere in particular before looking back to the others, "Marquessa, a pleasure to see you. Lady Mabelle, I swear you are determined to fatten me up like a suckling pig with all these tasty foods!" She offers a brief smile and wink to suggest she might be teasing, then reaches to take up a glass of the raspberry honey mead, and one of the stuffed mushrooms.

Vincenzo has joined the pond benches.

Thea flutters her fingers at Mabelle. And Vincenzo. A proper bow is given to Alarissa as well. "Your Highness,"Thea greets from her spot, drink in hand. "Princess Cassima, good to see you again."

Leaving the strangeness of her note to reread later, Deva folds it up and tucks it into an interior jacket pocket. Approaching the rails, she whistles (poorly) a few notes to get Alantir's attention and wave. Mouthing something to the knight, she gives him a nod and then withdraws to go find a drink.

"Goodman Vincenzo. Oh it's good to see you are in the city again. I have missed you." Alarissa lights up at the sight of the tailor. "No doubt we will be seeing your fashions everywhere. That Umbra looks divine on you." Mabelle invites Vincenzo and Alarissa echo's the gesture. There's enough space.

Norwood finally reaches over to pat Amari on the shoulder. "I am trying to decide if Cristoph falling off his horse is grounds for breaking my oath." He LOOKS serious - but he isn't, right? "A silver for your thoughts Amari."

Catching Thea's greeting, Vincenzo is offering a smile to her, only to then look back to Mabelle, "Good to see you, Lady Mabelle." A smile and he is moving to join them, his gaze darting back over towards Alarissa, "It is good to be back, Your Highness, and I have no doubt that you shall see much of my fashion throughout the city in the coming months." A curl of his lips to a smile and then a dip of his head, "And thank you for the compliment. I thought I would go with something different today."

Evaristo has found a drink and some foods and is sitting with legs stretched out, basking in the sunlight. Considering he is looking like it has been a hard winter, paler than usual and dark bags beneath his eyes, he could use the sunlight.

There is someone paid to do these announcements and so that person gets up onto a platform now and announces the beginning of the joust. "Our first match of the afternoon will be between Duke Cristoph Laurent and Lord Drake Wyvernheart! Please come to the field." In theory they're already there! Or near to it!

Scanning the crowd, Kia finally locates Thea where she sits in another section of the benches. She lifts a hand and when Thea looks over their way, she gives a quick wave of her hand. A quiet 'hello' is mouthed in her direction too: hopefullly Thea can lipread.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Drake is successful.
Cristoph is successful.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Drake is successful.
Cristoph is successful.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
TIE: Cristoph is successful. Drake is successful.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Drake is successful.
Cristoph is successful.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Drake is successful.
Cristoph is successful.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Drake is successful.
Cristoph is successful.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Cristoph is successful.
Botch! Drake fails badly.

Deva has joined the A FESTIVE DRINK STAND.

Amari blinks as her focus returns to the here and now, with Norwood's hand on her shoulder. She forgets that she's meant to be frowning for reasons, and a reassuring smile is the not so terrible result. "I would argue it would not be grounds." And that's her most learned opinion. Her thoughts? She shares those, "I'm worried I planted violets where I meant to plant hyacinth this morning. Why do all the bulbs look nearly the same?"

Gawain gives a wave of a gauntleted hand in acknowledgement to Philippe, and then when the announcements begin, the rather younger Blanchard turns to spectate, attention rapt on the field as the first contestants are called forward.

"Hummmmm...." Norwood replies, watching Drake and Cristoph go at it. "You would know I suppose

But flowers in the wrong place?! DISASTER! "That would be unfortunate. They need different care. We will have to check when we get home." Norwood decides, words pointed a Amari.

Alarissa's attention goes to Thea at a set of chairs with Philippe. "How does married life suit you Lady Thea? Have you set him to right on how you like breakfast in bed yet and expectation that he will bring it?" There's a wink from the Princess Consort.'.

As conversation beams from the pond benches and calls of "DONT FALL", are called, Mabelle takes a moment to wave to Deva as she arrives, "Princess!"

Amari turns to watch the first match as well, head tilted and helm still tucked under her arm. "We should. I've been second guessing myself since I planted them." But flower bed disasters can wait, when there's excellent jousting to witness. "I don't think you have to worry today about the Duke falling from his horse. He's in good form today. Lord Drake is no slouch and he's holding his own."

Drake climbs up into the saddle, checking his lance, as the lineup begins. He gives a wave to a few, and gets into the line. Being the first to be called in isn't too surprising, since he sometimes does well at these and he's always eager. The match begins and the two of them start to charge up. For a while it's a great show of competetors that seem to be evenly matched. Drake gets in a few good hits, but nothing to unseat Cristoph. After a few dramatic passes with no clear winner, however, Drake goes for the charge... and doesn't quite set it, twisting his still-injured hand. Maybe he shouldn't have pushed it. Getting to the last pass he doesn't precisely FALL off, but he does jump off, as it seems his wrist is twisted. He looks annoyed with this, but can't pass again, showing Cristoph the clear winner and giving him a bow in defeat.

Tyche shifts forward against the bench as Cristoph's name is pulled. She does not respond to any further chatter happening as her gaze follows the course of the two men charging at one another. Her hands lift to clasp in front of her mouth, clearly invested in this bout. When the passes continue, and continue, she lifts both brows, "I don't remember it going on this long..." And then Cristoph is victorious! She cheers for him, and then settles back against the bench. "So far, I am right," she declares to those closest, because apparently she made a prediction.

Thea hears Alarissa. Really. "It's going well, thank you your Highness." Her eyes actually drift toward the jousting, chuckling. "I suppose I may be spoiled in that regard. And it's hard to say, as we're both up early. Together." Take that how you will. There's a pause when Norwood starts talking about--flowers? "Baron Norwood, Lady Amari, good afternoon,"Thea says with a smile and bow of her head.

Preston claps politely for the Duke Laurent as the jousting starts and...continues. For a few passes. "Well struck, Duke Laurent!" He calls out.

Confessor Imori, Confessor Warren, 5 Armed Confessors arrive, following Tikva.

Evaristo lets out a cheer and a 'Bravo!' towards the jousters, both of them - he's remaining seated however, not getting too excited.

There's a murmur through the crowd as Cristoph doesn't seem to actually endure any sort of serious injury this time. Amusingly, the commentary is almost entirely about what a fantastic riding instructor Baron Norwood is because and quote 'there's no way the duke got this good on his own!'. The announcer comes his hands and calls out for: "Lord Gawain Blanchard and Prince Alantir Valardin!"

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Gawain is successful.
Alantir is successful.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
TIE: Gawain marginally fails. Alantir marginally fails.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Gawain is successful.
Alantir marginally fails.

Philippe chuckles to himself about 'breakfasts in bed,' but lets the younger folks do their verbal jousting without interruption. The horse-mounted joust is his professional interest. He shouts wordless praise for Gawain as his round begins.

Drake has left the Jousting Grounds.

Tikva has a slightly harried look as she arrives, in mid-conversation with one of the red-clad mooks whose job it is this day to follow her around, but she abandons him with a flap of her hand, planting a folio of papers in his arms and then strolling along the side to hunt up a good vantage to watch the joust. She cheers somewhat indiscriminately as a pair are announced. "Drinks!" she exclaims, "What a good idea," and strolls thataway.

Tikva has joined the A FESTIVE DRINK STAND.

Norwood is all about the 💐 flowers. He likes flowers. Someone should come check out his garden sometime if they wonder about it. He catches some of that commentary about his teaching skills and calls out, "The Duke put in the work!" Those around him might hear the added "finally."

Tyche is overheard praising Cristoph: No broken arm this time!

Drake has joined the a set of chairs and benches.

Norwood is overheard praising Cristoph: See what hard work does!

Drake returns to the stands to watch the rest. He takes his helmet off, and shakes out his smarting hand a bit. But gives Cristoph a salute at the pass well done.

Amari winces sympathetically as Drake dismounts in some obvious pain, but as he seems more annoyed than not, she gives both the jousters a round of applause. It's extra loud for all the clacking of her rubicund gauntlets, but not so loud that she doesn't hear her name being called. Looking about, she realizes it's Thea quickly enough and smiles a greeting her way. Norwood's comment prompts a laugh she nods through. "It seems so!" The next pair are called then, so she turns back to watch. "I'm not sure who will prevail in this match."

Alantir jousts, and fails. It is to be expected. Maybe he'd miscalculated the angle of his lance, or maybe he'd underestimated the speed and intensity of his opponent's charge. No matter the reason, he misses his mark -- and is struck firmly upon the breastplate, the force of the blow nearly knocking him from the back of destrier. Fortunately, his grip upon the reins holds. As stallion slows, he pivots in his saddle and gives his opponent a wave and bow of helm to silently concede defeat and convey respect for a well-earned victory.

Stepping forward from the lists, Gawain leads his horse, Champion - a big creature, bred for bulk over speed - to one end of the field, and once there, he turns to offer a salute towards Alantir before drawing his visor down and mounting. Lance in hand, he coaxes Champion into motion, gaining some speed on the way. The first pass, he takes a blow on his shield, and sways briefly in the saddle, and on the second, his lance goes well clear of Alantir. On the third, however, the Blanchard lord's lance connects more cleanly with the prince. As he turns his horse at the end of the field again, he notes Alantir's gesture, and flips his visor up and offers a bow of his head in acknowledgement.

Thea carefully watches Drake as he dismounts, more pointedly, his hand. Taking a drink, she leans over to Philippe, Thea asks about Gawain,"A relation to you, I assume, yes?"

Alantir has left the Jousting Grounds.

Deva is overheard praising Alantir: You still have the best ears!

"Lord Gawain emerges the winner of his match. Thank you Prince Alantir!" The announcer flips through his cards and comes to the next one. "Ah! Would Carnifex Preston please step up and face the field against Baron Norwood Clement!" The man seems rather excited about this one. Carnifex of the Faith? Versus one of the Oathlands best riders? He's here for it.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Norwood is successful.
Preston marginally fails.

Philippe quaffs more beer. "A nephew," he says to Thea. "of Louis, a fine man." Nearer to his seat, Philippe glances over at Drake, skeptical of something, but then raises another cheer when Gawain takes his match.

Mabelle cheers toward the arena occaionally, not because she's watches, she just notices who comes out smiling and who isnt.

Evaristo cheers the jousters, indiscriminately - seems he has no particular favorite, enjoying the game, and the chat with the others sitting near him.

Theadora, A young Golden Eagle, Amara, a not at all shady looking prodigal, Eos, A Malvici Shield bearer arrive, following Santi.

Preston checks composure at normal. Preston is successful.

Gawain trots his horse off to the side of the field, and murmurs something down at the animal on the way. He hands his lance off to Josiah to mind, and dismounts to get back to spectating. He offers a grin towards Philippe, then turns to cheer for the next set of jousters.

Drake has left the a set of chairs and benches.

Calluna, A Young Highhill Mastiff have been dismissed.

Upon returning to the stands, Alantir removes the bunny-eared headband from his helm and presents it to Deva. "A fine favor. I regret that it will not be affiliated with a tournament champion," he confesses, lifting visor and offering a small smile. "Next time, perhaps. Or, if you are so inclined, I could teach you to climb a mount and support the weight of a lance?" It was a sincere offer.

Preston gestures for Balian to bring around the warhorse, covered in Templar barding. Getting up into the saddle, he fastens his cheek guards before taking the lance from his squire and trotting across to the tilt and lowering his visor. As it happens, the joust itself is a one pass affair - spurring his horse up to its gallop he couches his lance and, resting it over his shield, thunders down towards Norwood. A competant rider, Preston's technique is solid but not pristeen, but it gets him down. However that is as far as it gets him, as Norwood's lance strikes. Preston keeps his head down and in the fight rather than flinching away, but he falls backwards in his seat and over the horse's rear and onto the ground, his own lance having gone up and then tumbling to the ground as well. After a couple of moments he rolls and manages to get to his feet and lifts his visor. Preston raises a hand towards Cristoph to indicate he is well, before offering a deferential bow to the victor.

Tikva shouts from nearby, "Woo!"

"Pardon," Norwood says to Amari and Thea as his name is called up. Steadfast is here and not at all dismissed to decrease color spam and mounts up to face down Preston. In a a practiced manor the pair surge forward against the Carnifex. When the match ends Norwood offers a return bow to Preston. "Is this a poor time to tell you that we have made moderate movement on facing the Warhammer of Woe?"

Deva is chatting idly with the others at the drink stand after she calls out how lovely Alantir's ears are. Yes, she probably means the extra ones. As he approaches, she grins and accepts the ears to plop them onto her own head instead. They are lopsided, leaning heavily to the left. "They still had a marvelous debut. And you did a very good job trying," she insists, a hand lifting to tap a fingertip to Alantir's nose once the visor is lifted. "Me lancing anything sounds like chaos, so yes, absolutely. I'm in. You can teach me!"

Regardless of the result, the crowd is very excited at the match and cheer loudly at the conclusion. Though some people seem confused about why Norwood is now starting to talk about warhammer. But only a little. There's a lot of Oathlanders here and they do like stuff like weapons. In the meanwhile, the announcer clears his throat and shuffles the cards. "We have Lady Amari Keaton vs Sir Joseff the- wait, no. I've learned Sir Joseff has quit the field in a huff over warm milk not being served. Instead we have a newcomer! Lord Santi Malvici!"

"Given my worries, I am not sure there is a good time for such news, Baron - but there are also few in the compact who I would trust to be able to accomplish such a task." Preston answers, offering a warm smile to Norwood "But it is good to spend a day in the Oathlands, even if on my back. A reminder that no noble represents all, and there is more unity than we may think." Preston ambles back towards the seating, pulling his helmet off and tossing it to the approaching Balian "I am reminded why I spend more time on foot. And not just because I get enough arrows in me without sitting up on a horse."

Amari applauds for everyone and peers after Gawain curiously following his win, before naturally being fully distracted by Norwood and Preston's showdown. There's more applause, but somewhat restrained. It has to feel wrong somehow for an Oathlander to cheer against the Carnifex of the Faith. With those few matches done, she gathers her hair back and readies her helmet. She's ready then for when her name is called, if not for the surprise substitution. Sir Joseff would do something like that.

Tikva calls, "Next time, warm milk and honey! Then we will all have a nice nap!"

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Amari is successful.
Santi marginally fails.

Better late than never, Arriving at the joust field comes Santi. The man fully armored and even carrying with him his shield as Eos his trusty shield bearer or brother depending on who you asked guiding along his horse armored and wearing the colors of Malvici. As he arrives Santi lifts his large mug taking a slow sip of his coffee through his open visor. His eyes surveying the stands before that focus turns to the field to watch those currently jousting. When he hears his name called as the next jouster his mug is handed off to Eos and he moves to quickly mount his horse, the reigns taken into his hand bearing his shieled before he leans down to take a lance from a nearby squire. The Malvici guiding his horse onto the field.

Mabelle calls randomly toward Tikva, "Goodness I want to nap!"

Thea squints at Santi as he comes---"What the fuck are you doing on a horse?!" Though she cheers for her giant cousin anyway. She won't even be remotely surprised when he..that's right WHEN he falls off. Silver for if she's wrong

Norwood is so use to people being all ??? at him that he takes it in stride staying by Preston's side. "You are a particularly attractive target to shoot at." Norwood should think about his words as they walk off. "It would be quite the feat." What is that?! No warm milk is being served? "Pardon. Lady Mabelle!" A hand upraised, "What is this about no warm milk? Oh, Amari has won. Very good. Very good. Mabelle?" .

Yes, it would be quite chaotic. For a moment, Alantir considers rescinding his offer -- but then realizes that Princess Redrain had expressed sincere enthusiasm. "We'll start sometime next week. And, as suspected, those ears are quite fitting," the Oathlander murmurs, reaching forward to straighten (or attempt to straighten) the droopy ear. He is ultimately unsuccessful. "Will you be wearing them to your dinner? Did you ever find an opportunity to speak with your brother? I saw you carrying a note when you entered the grounds." Arms fold neatly neatly across breastplate.

Mabelle huffs at Norwood, "What kind of a bad host do you take me for? I'm not even the host! There is warm milk with honey!", she calls over to the drink stand, "Maurice! Baron Clement is too ol...already tired, please serve him warm milk", she ducks.

Amari's horse is on the lighter side, almost more a courser than not, but makes up for it in wildness. The Duskshire feral dances at the line, huffing and stamping as the knight in her rose gold hued rubicund plate, drops her visor and lifts her hand to indicate her readiness. When the signal is given, she lets Bandit loose and is nearly a mirror of Norwood's performance. Same technique, if adapted to her lesser size and strength. The lance drops, perfectly timed and aimed well, to strike resoundingly and squarely against Santi's shield.

As she reins her horse in, she opens her visor to find her opponent and give a nod of respect for the good tilting.

Perhaps not terribly bothered about who he supports or just feeling supportive in general, Gawain offers up a cheer as both Amari and Santi take the field, then as the joust comes to a close, some applause and a call of "Well ridden!"

As the joust progresses, Vincenzo is lifting his hands to give a clap, following it up with, "Good showings!" Then he's silent again, lips curling to a smile as he turns his attention to Norwood, a chuckle coming to pass his lips at the mention of milk and then Mabelle's reply to him.

"Congratulations Lady Amari Keaton! Thank you Lord Santi for joining us!" The announcer... announces. Once they've quit the field, the flags raise. "It's time for the next round. Would Lord Gawain Blanchard and Duke Cristoph Laurent please return to the field once again!"

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Cristoph is successful.
Gawain marginally fails.

Santi hears the /cheer/ from Thea, the large man calling out to his cousin "I'm riding the fucking thing." The man flipping his visor down. His gaze settling upon Amari and as her hand raises he raises his lance showing that signal of ready. When he sees her begining to guide her steed along the field he gives a quick kick to the side of his own. The man's mount taking off across the field as he guides the lance to rest against the edge of his shield. As her lance strikes the shield it sends the large man off balance and within moments he is ass over tea kettle and in the dirt as his mount trots off the field. Santi meanwhile is left to pick himself up out of the dirt offering a wave to Amari and a respectful dip of his head before limping off the field.

Deva holds still -just- long enough for Alantir to adjust the bunny ears on her head. Only just. She scoops up his arm with her own, or tries to, in an effort to pull him under the shade of the drink stand and introduce him to the others (particularly Evaristo and Tikva) seated there too. "Very fitting once you find out what we're serving for dinner," she laughs, giving the droopy ear a flop after it sliiiiides back down despite the Valardin's best efforts. "Darren and I found dinner! We're very proud of ourselves."

"Nonsense. You can't convince me you had nothing to do with the refreshments Lady Cookie." Norwood manages to say that seriously, his nose stuck jjuussttt slightly up in the air. PIFT. But someone is bringing warm milk and he will call out, "Bring two cups. Someone else here is also civilized."

Norwood is overheard praising Amari: Best squire now knight, fite, win!

Evaristo bows seatedly to Alantir. "Your highness. I am Captain Evaristo Arterius - well jousted."

Mabelle looks confused at the Horse and the horse, who's name is Cookie is totally rolling her eyes at Norwood. If she wasnt a horse. "Lady Cookie had nothing to do with the refreshments, and there is also Duskshire Whiskey and Did you just call me uncivilized?", she rises, pushing her fists to her sides. "Maybe. I was always too feral", she informs Norwood and sinks back down between Alarissa and Vincenzo. She will not be lured into a duel by this family!

Tikva sketches a little bow, too, probably copying Evaristo. She's derivative. "Princess Tikva Grayson," she says. "I'm glad you got Deva some ears! Everyone needs an ear, talking to bards." She winks. Because she's a dork.

Deva poorly timed that drink because she starts sputtering on it after Tikva's joke. She laughs in good stride, eyes crinkled at the corners despite her wheezing.

Alantir offers no resistance when pulled, permitting the redhead to drag him in any direction of her choosing. Evaristo and Tikva are offered a smile and polite dip of chin, their faces unfamiliar to him. "It is a pleasure, Captain Arterius. Believe it or not, it's not as complicated as it looks. Aim, charge, hope a splintered section of lance doesn't wind up in your neck," he muses good-naturedly, presenting the officer his gauntlet. "And well met, your highness," the knight adds, shifting attention to the Grayson. He doesn't get the joke but laughs nonetheless. You know, to be part of the group.

Alantir has joined the A FESTIVE DRINK STAND.

Norwood doesn't pay attention to Mabelle's pets names as he wanders away IGNORING Mabelle's words. "Marquessa Tyche, warm honeyed milk?:

Back on his horse, Gawain trots back out onto the field. From the far end of it, he salutes Cristoph, and then, visor lowered, gets moving. On the first pass, however, the Blanchard's lance goes astray, finding thin air instead of the Honey Duke, and in turn, he takes a blow that rocks him in the saddle. Although not quite enough to dislodge him entirely, with a foot caught in a stirrup saving him from the ground, it obviously winds him, and he draws his horse to a halt at the far end of the field, where he ducks his head towards Cristoph, conceding. Somewhat breathlessly, he calls, "Well struck, Duke Laurent!"

Mabelle narrows her eyes at Norwood. Because she can.

Tyche's been watching the joust, and when she hears her name called she turns to smile at Norwood. "Baron! You road so well. Sure, I will try some of this famed honeyed milk."

Thea keeps getting message after message. Lifting her eyebrow, she sighs. "I'm sorry, Im needed elsewhere. If you'll excuse me,"and sneaks out.

Thea has left the a set of chairs and benches.

Finn the large Northern hunting dog with icy blue eyes, Rocco, the rascally assistant leave, following Thea.

Philippe applauds and cheers the joust. "Well fought, Gawain!" he calls forth. An attendant also comes to pull him away about something. The old count is led off to attend to some matter of the household.

Philippe has left the a set of chairs and benches.

Oaty, a white Oathlands Vanner leaves, following Philippe.

That Cristoph doesn't end up on the ground is almost as much of a surprise to Cristoph as it is to anyone else that's here today. After his passes with Gawain, he trots his horse up to the man and offers him a steadying hand to help him regain his balance. "Well ridden, Lord Gawain. And it's good to see you back in the city again. Thank you for joining us."

"And up next we have Lady Amari Keaton versus Baron Norwood Clement. Who will emerge the winner from this encounter?"

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Norwood is successful.
Amari is successful.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Amari is successful.
Norwood is successful.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Norwood is successful.
Amari is successful.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Norwood is successful.
Amari is successful.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Norwood is successful.
Amari is successful.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Norwood is successful.
Amari is successful.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Norwood is successful.
Amari is successful.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Amari is successful.
Norwood is successful.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Norwood is successful.
Amari marginally fails.

Santiturns to watch the joust, With another match won and done and the announcement of the next Santi reaches out to reclaim his mug raising it to Amari as he calls out his version of encouragement. "Knock his dick in the dirt!" The man clearly lacking in some..social niceties or in how to properly cheer for someone outside of a barracks fight.

Amari clears the way, but doesn't dismount or remove her helmet just yet. She'll be in the next round, after all. She does watch Santi for a time, perhaps concerned with the limping or simply curious about him. It's really not until Gawain and Cristoph are up that she looks away, to watch with rapt interest. The result deserves a hearty round of applause, but then some trepidation. The former squire against her mentor and dear uncle. She looks to Norwood, "I expect nothing but your best and I shall be merciless... but I'll try not to knock your dick in the dirt." She heard that.

Her words were not false ones. Amari jousts like this is very serious business. For every strike of Norwood's, she answers with the same. Back and forth, over and over, until finally she's bested. Her head undoubtedly ringing from the hit, she finally concedes with a lift of her hand.

Pushing his visor up, and happily steadied on his horse, Gawain offers a red-faced grin to Cristoph, still getting his breath back. "Cor. Be thankful for breastplates, right? Excellent tournament, my lord." Then he clears off the field to go watch the next round, and he's quickly back to cheering the participants.

Deva is overheard praising Amari: Yay Lady Hedgehog!

Oh wait nope. Sorry Tyche! The Marquessa gets BOTH mugs of warm honey milk shoved at her before Norwood heads for his seat. Amari gets bowed to from across the field. "Be well Lady Amari, don't get too jostled- we need to check those flowers later. And.. thank...you?" Norwood is confused about how his dick got into the conversation at all. He was busy pushing milk on Tyche.

Words are suspended as their bout begins though- and Steadfast is lathered by the time Amari lifts her hand. He dismounts and approaches. "Well done. Come on up," a hand offered to her.

Tyche blinks as both mugs are handed over, and she looks down to the dual wielding of milk, a quick laugh escaping. "Ride well, Baron!" she calls to him, lifting one of the mugs to her lips, looking down to narrow eyes of it, and then determining the other mug is better. She takes a sip, a small sound of surprise. Yeah. That's honeyed milk alright. What was she expecting?

Norwood is overheard praising Amari: thank you for doing nothing with my.. y'know

There are two riders left, one of which is the main host of the event. A thing that seems to greatly surprise Cristoph who is just removing his helmet to exchange words with Gawain. Rupert has wandered over to speak with the duke and he's shaking his head, a grimace on his expression as he stares across the field at Norwood. Eventually some consensus seems to pass and his assistant rushes back over to speak to the announcer. More words happen! And then comes the next calling: "As it would be poor hosting for Duke Cristoph to participate in the final round as a /serious/ contender for today's prizes, the first place prize will be awarded to Baron Norwood Clement! The second will go to Lady Amari Keaton! However, as he understands that Baron Norwood will not be satisfied with leaving the field without facing him, Duke Laurent will ride for sport against Baron Clement!"

Tikva shouts from nearby, "Yay! Good show! Such hospitality, praise Gild!"

As Cristoph's man announces that the contest will be for sport, she lifts both cups of honeyed milk in salute. "Let's go, Duke Laurent! Show your teacher what you've learned!"

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Norwood is successful.
Cristoph is successful.

Santi does cheer for Amari as she rides against her uncle. His mug lifted in salute to the woman as she moves on that last pass only to come out of it with the loss. The man still though calls out after her, "A good ride regardless." The man then looking to Norwood as he hears the announcement. "You got this, Don't be losing to a beekeeper." The man grinning as he tries to stir things up a bit before slipping away from the stands.

Cristoph has called for a check of strength and ride at normal.
Critical Success! Norwood is spectacularly successful.
Cristoph is successful.

Evaristo shouts from nearby, "Hooray! A bloody good show! Well, not too bloody, but you know what I mean!"

Amari takes the opportunity not just to take Norwood's hand, but to viciously hug him without any provocation! It's horrible, but cute. "Thank you, Uncle Norwood. Well fought." She clacks her gauntleted hand to his armored back a few times before stepping away, just in time to hear that the last round will be a friendly one. "Well, sport or not. Go get him." She encourages before leading Bandit off.

Amari is overheard praising Norwood.

Santi is overheard praising Norwood: Good job beeating the beekeeper!

Kia gets a messenger, and then another. One arrives on the heels of the other, and with a look of consternation on her face, the young woman rises to her feet and abandons what conversations she'd been enjoying where she sits. "Excuse me. Sorry..." she mutters as she hitches her skirts and picks her way with care past the myriad maze of feet she's presented with. Once clear of the benches, she quickly heads off.

Kia has left the pond benches.

"Gak!" That us the sound illicited by Amari's armored hug, before he swings about at the announcer. Whhaaatttt? Norwood eyes the announcer as he goes and says that he has won despite Cristoph clearly STILL IN THE RUNNING, but seems molified, slightly, by the announcement that Cris will still ride, just, for fun.  "Good. Then, we will do this."  A pause as Norwood makes sure Steadfast is cooled enough before mounting. The horse is promised all kinds of yummy stuff if he can do this oonnee last one. FITE! "If you break any bones I am not speaking to you again." Warning given before Norwood kicks off his horse.

Tikva has left the A FESTIVE DRINK STAND.

Confessor Imori have been dismissed.

Confessor Warren have been dismissed.

5 Armed Confessors have been dismissed.

Tyche would cheer through clapping, if she didn't have these two mugs in her hands. Thankfully she doesn't forget that fact, because honeyed milk would go everywhere. She uses her voice instead, unable to fault Norwood for taking out her favored champion, "Huzzah! Well tilted Baron Norwood!" Now, Tyche doesn't quite realize that tilting is not against another opponent, just against a bunch of rings, but she heard it once about a joust field, and she calls it out with such confidence!

Tikva has joined the A FESTIVE DRINK STAND.

When Norwood appears mollified by the decision, Cristoph turns his horse back to the field and sets up to square off against Norwood. Will he actually manage to unseat the man that's been teaching him how to improve his riding these last few months? It's not a bad showing! Definitely far better than that time he was unhorsed after one pass an broke his arm. But eventually Norwood crashes his lance squarely into the shield and sends him right off of his horse. Thankfully he leans well, onto his back and without his head crashing back or his arm twisting or snapping. Hurray! But it's a solid unhorsing. And the crowd is very excited, for various reasons. As crowds tend to be.

Evaristo stands up in excitement now and is clapping and cheering enthusiastically.

Mabelle finally rises and cheers also, who? She doesnt know, she cheers, everyone were great! Someone had won! People drank milk, "YAY!!"

Norwood hurries back to Cristoph's side. "You are all in one piece, right?"

Evaristo is overheard praising Cristoph.

Evaristo is overheard praising Norwood.

Gawain raises another cheer as the last joust comes to a close, at least come such a time as it appears that Cristoph hasn't broken anything, and he calls, "Well struck, Baron Norwood! Well ridden both! Quite a display."

Tyche was, of course, worried to see Cristoph fly through the air, but she sees him stirring, no cries of pain, so she's much slower to stand and to move toward the railing. She also still has Norwood's mug. "Baron! Help the man up, and then come get your drink.

Amari finds a good spot to watch the sporting duel between Norwood and Cristoph. There she removes her helm and tucks it under her arm. Again, her horse tries to nibble on her ear but it seems only his way to get the reward in sugar cubes he clearly thinks he's owed. She's half heartedly fighting him when the round is settled with an unhorsing of the Duke. That's definitely wince worthy, and as Norwood rushes over to check on him, she watches intently, as though ready to run for a Mercy if it's another broken bone.

Norwood is given a thumbs up from Cristoph's position on the ground. "I'm good, I'm good. Just." Winded. He catches his breath and slowly gets back to his feet, dusting dirt and grass off of his armor and clasping Norwood's hand now that he's standing.

With the arrival of a messenger in the livery of Malvici there is a grunt from Santi as he is given a message before giving a subtle nod of his head. The larger man glancing one last time to the field before he is motioning for Eos to get his mount even as he strolls off to handle whatever message he had been given.

Theadora, A young Golden Eagle, Amara, a not at all shady looking prodigal, Eos, A Malvici Shield bearer leave, following Santi.

Oh good. Everything is food.good Cristoph is up and he takes back a much of Milk. His voice is lowered as he says something to Tyche and Cristoph.

"Me? Never." Norwood walks manly, not at all in a flounce, away.

"Duke Laurent," Tyche sets her drink aside after murmuring a quiet word to Norwood and Cristoph. "Those lessons paid off." She extends a hand to tap the charm at his chest, the little shark one. "And this might be luckier than a ribbon. Keep it always." Another quiet word, and then the Marquessa turns with a flourish to head off.

Tyche has left the pond benches.