(1312-04-18) Spring Tournament: Duel Contest
Summary: The duel contest.
RL Date: Sat Apr 18, 2020
Related: Spring Tournament
aidan ammy andre antoine armandine athenais audrialla belmont etienne ezio gal isolde jehan-pascal justine philomene symon theodosia valerie yves 

Tournament Field — Eisandine Countryside

The wind billows pennants and banners as far as the eye can see, here. The terrain is generally flat, with some signs that areas of the plain might have been built up to help flatten it— one corner in particular overlooks a steep downward hill. The plain is partitioned off by fences into walkways and competition grounds, and in the middle of each set of fences feet have long worn away the grass, leaving the centers of each area naught but earth and dust, all the better not to accidentally trod in a hole and break oneself.

On the western edge of the field a huge mass of stands has been erected out of fresh beams of wood, all redolent of pine and of cedar, nailed in place with giant iron stakes and sturdy enough to stand firm below the mass of humanity which moves onto and off of it every day during the tournament competitions. Opposite the stands are the brightly colored pavilia, each with its banner waving overhead, where the competitors of each family might store equipment, rest and prepare. In the middle of the pavilia is a raised stand where the Duchesse, her family, and invited VIPs may sit under a canopy of their own and watch the games from closer to the action.


One of the highlights of any tournament is the duel contest. Last year, there had been one such to celebrate Camael, in particular, and so it is not surprising , that this year, many of the contestants have come all the way from Camlach. But there are Eisandines, too, young lords and ladies that have practiced their swordplay and refined it to give a good showing today. Colorful banners are toyed with by an occasional breeze, as martial looking contestants are getting ready for the next round. Anyone who has come this far, has already braved two rounds of duels, as now only the best may progress to the next stage of the contest.

"Lords and Ladies of Marsilikos, people! Honored guests of our city! The next round is your chance to make it for the final win. Match after match, you will face your opponents. But it will take two losses in such a match to remove you from the contest.", the herald announces with a loud and booming voice that is used to carry far enough for everyone seated on the benches and in the boxes and also those watching from the stands to hear.

In the Ducal Box, the Duchesse of Eisande is settled with some of her immediate family and a few ladies-in-waiting. Armandine de Mereliot wears the colors of her House, in a dress of dark samite embroidered with the golden fish that are distinctive of the coat of arms of Eisande's ruling family. She lets her kind gaze drift over those that are waiting to compete and will offer them a warm smile. "I want to let you know," she announces, in a voice loud and clear but of a different, almost musical quality, compared to that of the herald. "I want to let you know, my lords and ladies, that I am very impressed already with what prowess you have shown so far. It warms my heart to see that Marsilikos once again has managed to attract so much talent and skill for this tournament."

One of the honoured guests of the City is the Flatlandish prince Andre van Westerlo, who's dressed up in his fine expensive armor, standing around outside a tent with three of his guards. He's doing some casual movements, swinging his word, losening up, while keeping half an eye on the crowd filling in.

One particular local Eisandine House is represented in one of the competitors. Belmont d'Eresse, baron of Beaucare, has already gone through the first two rounds, victorious. He wears chainmail, but of a more elaborate kind that shows off his status, below a white tabard that sports the sign of the green ship, the coat of arms of his House. The turney blade he has wielded in his bouts so far, is held loosely, tip resting on the ground, as his fingers rest on the pommel. His hair is on the shorter side of middle length, dark curls that frame his handsome features. He is waiting for his name to be called for the next match, standing at the sidelines. His gaze drifts and he smiles, catching sight of someone watching on the benches. Lifting his sword then in salute, he then turns his attention to an attendant, he aaks to refasten one of the leather straps at his shoulder.

There are banners and duelists from all over, even Kusheth it seems. The banner of Cherevin flies over one pavilion where Valerie waits patiently, watching the crowds and competition calmly. She seems perfectly composed at least on the outside. She wears a set of custom fitted blackened armor over an amber tunic, made for mobility as much as protection. That long dark hair is pulled into a tight single braid to keep it out of the way. Her blade is currently sheathed as she stands in the shade of her pavillion watching. Her gaze is drawn to the Flatlander practicing and she arches a dark eyebrow in mild curiousity.

Walking around the Tournament Field after his earlier matches, in his usual good mood, the young Lord Yves Valliers is wearing his customary combinations of red and white wool. Striding toward where the duels will be happening, he pauses and listens to the Duchesse as she offers the customary speech on the day, a smile on his face. When that is done, he offers her a polite light applause and goes over to stand near to the dueling rings, using a dagger from his waist to clean the bottom of one of his boots. The sway of maile on his person and the dull practice sword on his waist indicating that he's one of the competitors, though he looks entirely too enthusiastic at times. Enjoying the swordplay for its own sake.

The Vicomte de Vienne was here as Ezio d'Aiglemort prepared for his combat. He leaned against one of the walls while he held his side, his old war wound bothering him on this day of all days, much to Ezio's annoyance. Yet no doubt the challenge will be all the more exciting. Nonetheless, with him stands the banner of Vienne. He looks around for a moment as he takes the measure of each fighter pressent. No doubt, this will be a glorious and tough day for a battle.

Aidan is standing near the dueling grounds watching the current duels for now as he tries to get a read on the potential opponents he'll be fighting when his turn to enter the ring again comes up. Spotting Yves he offers the young lord a wave of his hand but his focus remains on the contestants in the ring.

Audrialla's once again taking advantage of the crowds to move through the gathering offering hand-pies and a few sweet pieces of pan d'epice to the hungry gathered. She tries to stick to the fancier sections of the crowd because they have the money for the tempting tasties. Her blond hair is fixed up with a pink rose that sets off the color of the hair and compliments her blue silk dress.

Isolde paces back and forth under the banner of d'Eltoine. Like a caged panther the amazonian giant of a woman looks ready to attack at any given moment. She had faced several men who thought they could beat her, only to wind up face down in the dirt. The warrior woman is clad in armor of all black tones and her blade is at her side, sheathed for now. That dark hair is pulled up into a bun, practical and neat. She paces back and forth casting glances to her competitors every so often.

Display of martial virtues and valor may be a rare thing to attract the curiosity of someone such as Justine Chalasse de la Courcel. But here she is, attired in a fine gown of white red and green, worn below a light elegant cape against the possible spring chill. Her blonde hair falls in part openly about her shoulders, with only a few strands being pulled back to give it an orderly appearance. She watches from one of the noble boxes, fingers curled about the stem of a goblet of red Namarrese wine. "Hmm," she wonders to noone in particular, this would be the time to place bets, would it not?" Spotting Audrialla and her hand-pies, Justine decides to wave to the baker-woman. "Mademoiselle Audrialla. Do you happen to have one of… those." Her blue eyes widen as she considers the delicacies on offer. "Yes, I think, I'd like to have one of those pan d'epice, if you have…"

Such a fine day for the duels finds Antoine present as one of the competitors. He's currently standing where he can study his potential opponents, expression rather thoughtful as he sips from something to drink. He looks relatively relaxed as he does, a smile on his face for now.

There. The trumpets sound the fanfare, and the loud crowd falls silent, looking towards to herald. "In our next match we shall see our honored guest from the Flatlands, Prince André van Westerlo face Lord Ezio d'Aiglemort, the Vicomte de Vienne. Cheer them on!"

Returning the polite gesture from Aidan, Yves bobs his head a few times. Shifting his weight from foot to foot, he draws out his dueling sword and continues to prod at the bottom of one of his boots. Displeased about something about the boot, he scrapes it and then sets his foot down again. Bouncing from the ball of one foot to the other. "That's better," he mutters to himself in satisfaction. "Come on Andre!" he calls out, not familiar with Ezio, not that there's some sort of personal reason for him to cheer for the one more than the other. "Let's see a good fight," he calls.

Andre stiffens a little when he hears he's up first. He exchanges smiles with his guards, then heads for the actual tourney ground to offer a deep bow to the Duchesse, before facing his first opponent.

The name Lord Ezio d'Aiglemort has Valerie's attention shifting, peering towards the man thoughtfully. She claps politely for both men, her expression unreadable as she watches from under her family banner.

Ezio's name is called and he straightens himself out and moves out into the fields. He turns his attention to his opponent, which seems to be Andre, and he gives the fellow a light bow. "Lets have a good fight." He proclaims to the man before he draws his curved blade and enters a stance, prepared for the battle to come.

Audrialla glances around for Philomene and doesn't spot her. That's why she can cheer Andre on before she approaches Justine, curtsying cheerfully. "Pan d'epice freshly baked for the occasion, my lady." She takes a handkerchief and hands over a slice of the still warm spice-bread. "Who do you favor? The prince of the the Vicomte?"

Isolde pauses her pacing and peers at the two about to fight. Her gaze follows them both and it looks like she wants to say something but she holds her tongue and settles for watching.

Antoine finds somewhere he can watch the fight a bit more carefully, studying the two competitors rather carefully to study their style of fighting. His expression turning a bit more focused.

<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Andre with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Andre attacks Ezio with Broadsword but Ezio DODGES!
<COMBAT> Andre attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Right Leg (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Andre with Broadsword but Andre DODGES!
<COMBAT> Andre attacks Ezio with Broadsword but Ezio DODGES!
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Andre with Broadsword but Andre DODGES!

Andre is slow to get going, perhaps wanting to gauge his enemy first, getting used to D'Angeline combat stances and manoevres. But once he's hit in the chest, he rallies quickly and manages to stab the other guy in the leg in an attempt to hamper him. And then a round of blows goes absolutely nowhere.

The battle begins and Ezio seems to be taking a more defensive route, letting Andre come to him. Though when he's close enough, Ezio moves in for the attack. Though Andre swings his blade at him, Ezio moves out of the way and, with that same motion, strikes Andre hard across the chest. Much to his luck, Ezio is struck in the right leg, near his wound, which makes his own attempt at finishing Andre a complete miss. With the next swing from both men, they do similar motions that cause them both to miss their marks, as if both anticipated the attack in the first place. "Well done sir." Ezio compliments his enemy

Rising to the Ducal Box in a gown of boxwood-hued silk, its bodice arrayed with several ranks of delicate silver chain which hang slack between two rows of dark brown points, is the next Comtesse d'Avignon, the Lady Favourite Tremaine, her hair artfully arrayed, her palm supported by the upturned fingers of her fiance as he helps her to ascend to their seats in the lead-up to the first match, then squeezes her hand as she finds her footing on the platform, maintaining eye contact for a moment even among the general din— then he turns to lead her along and help her be seated. "Your Grace," he greets the Duchesse with a bow, "It's an honor to be invited. What an excellent display we're in for."

Justine smiles. "Wonderful." She accepts the pan d'epice, chuckling a little at Audrialla's question. "Well… the prince does look yummy, doesn't he? I do like his blonde hair." And then that handsome prince is already engaged in his duel match, and Justine cheers, when André's sword hits home. "Prince André!"

<COMBAT> Andre attacks Ezio with Broadsword - ARMOR on Left Arm stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Andre with Broadsword - Light wound to Left Arm (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Andre with Broadsword - Serious wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Andre attacks Ezio with Broadsword but Ezio DODGES!

Valerie is silent her gaze thoughtful as she watches the two men duel. She does not seem enclined to pick sides like some of the others. Likely because she does not know either man well enough to pick one over the other. Either way the lady remains neutral in her opinion for now, observing thier fighting styles and movements more than anything.

"His highness has been most kind," Audri replies to Justine, giggling a little. "And he is quite fetching." She would share more gossip but the match is ongoing and they fight quite well together. She cheers for the sake of cheering, not seeming to favor either side.

<COMBAT> Andre attacks Ezio with Broadsword but Ezio DODGES!

Watching the ongoing match, Yves' focus never waves from the strenuous duel and the exchange of blows as the two trade attacks. "Well struck!" he calls out at random after a good exchange, sort of throwing favor to neither competitor. Leaving it to them to decide for themselves if they felt their blows were in fact well aimed. Looking away from the duel, he glances around at the others in the area, taking in some of the new faces that hadn't been there for previous tournaments. Curiosity plain on his strong Camaeline features.

<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Andre with Broadsword and MISSES!

"Lord d'Aiglemort if you lose to that pretty boy of a Prince I am going to kick your arse!" Isolde finally cracks and yells out to her favorite in the match. Her violet eyes hone in on the duel crictically and she frowns ever so faintly.

The Flatlandish prince clearly isn't used to this foreign style and soon enough he's hit rather seriously in the chest. But while he looks rattled for a moment, he still stands and carries on… even if he's too slow to get another blow in. At least he can easily side-step the other guy next turn.

Sure enough, whether it was the rousing from the crowd (mainly Isolde) and Ezio seems to wake up pretty quickly. Andre swings his sword at him and Ezio uses the armor on his left arm to literally bat the weapon away from him (while keeping it in Andre's hands). His counterattack, meanwhile, strikes his opponent in the left arm. The next strike from his enemy and Ezio simply takes a step backwards to lean out of the weapon's reach, before lunging back forward with a stab at the shoulder. The next strike? Ezio once again dodges with a sidestep, though he misses with a counterattack. Ezio seems to be smiling, likely at the thrill of the fight?

Theodosia may be a bit late, the young woman walking briskly towards the sounds of cheering and swords clashing, the short girl raising on the toes of her booties to see better, dressed rather for a day in the fields in a tight leather jerkin, and with pale jodhpurs hugging her legs and tucked into knee high boots. The wind makes her short cut hair ruffle a bit as she looks for familiar faces in the crowd.

It is perhaps a marvel, but Philomene makes little fuss on her arrival. Not even bothering to show up for the early rounds, by the time she gets here the competition is well and truly underway, and even then the competition gets barely a glance for as long as she's dismounting and making a fuss of her horse. It's as Hirondelle is crunching down happily on a sugared almond that something of the shouting filters through to her and she looks up sharply, peering over towards the fighting men. Aha. It turns out that this isn't just any bout, this is a d'Aiglemort (hooray!) showing some young foreign idiot (boo!) what Camaelines can do.

Étienne's armour is of clear Northern make and of a practical, rather than decorative bent. It is well maintained and clearly has been used and mended before, and is not that far out of fashion, so likely was made for him. It has a fresh coat of green paint and he is wearing a green and blck merman tabord over it. His helmet is off as he watches, leaning on a barrier near Symon de Perigeux. He seems to be watching with a real interest. He does cast the occasional curious glance in the direction of the future Comtesse d'Avignon, likely less subtley than he hopes.

Symon has already settled himself among the crowd, but he gets to his feet and comes up to the barrier as Etienne approaches. "You look splendid," he comments. "B-but I'm nervous. Are you?"

<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Andre with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Left Arm (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Andre attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Critical wound to Neck (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Andre has been KO'd!
<COMBAT> Ezio has been KO'd!
<COMBAT> Ezio spends a luck point to keep fighting!
<COMBAT> Andre spends a luck point to keep fighting!

Squatting near the fence where Etienne goes to meet Symon is another competitor, lurking well away from the grand pavilions that house the warriors in their house colors. This one's in the blue of the guards, in armor appointed by the city; one of its own guardsmen, who is certainly allowed to compete, even if he might be kind of out of place. Gal tips up a smile toward Symon and Etienne, then pushes up onto his toes and stands, skulking down the line of the barrier a ways, neck turned to track the fighting as he does.

More blows are traded and Andre is definitely on the wobbly side. He manages to get a good blow in at Ezio's neck, but befoe he can enjoy the hit, he sinks to his knee, taking a few gulps of air while he tries to keep going. Nope, he isn't going down. noooooo….

"Oh… By Camael…" Justine rises to her feet to get a better view, when André and Ezio go at each hard. "Hello, cousin," she greets Philomène casually, attention soon turning back to the field. Only to watch both of them go down! "Companions! He's hurt!" By which she is probably referring to the Flatlandish prince, not to Ezio.

So….Ezio and Andre meet again at the field of battle Though Ezio makes a beautiful strike against Andre's arm thats hard enough to knock the man straight to the ground, but Andre stays standing! Ezio didn't account for such a swift counter attack. The blade strikes him at the neck and Ezio is knocked back, but still stands up. He waits for feeling to return before he lifts his blade up in a devilish smile. He probably didn't much care about winning anymore, he was having -fun-.

"Well struck!" Yves yells out again from his spot beside the dueling ring, his hand gripping tight to the pommel of his practice sword. An intensity of interest growing in him as he watches with increasing interest, glad that he'd stuck around for the moment to watch this particular match. As they both muster a second wind, he whistles loudly.

<COMBAT> Andre attacks Ezio with Broadsword and MISSES!
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Andre with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Right Arm (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Andre has been KO'd!

Antoine lets out a brief whistle as he watches the men knocking each other about. Making some mental notes as he glances around, to the people watching, then back to the others.

"Lady Justine," Philomene offers by way of response as she limps her way over to where she can join the Chalasse contingent. "I think if you're shocked at either of the chaps being hurt, you fundamentally misunderstand the purpose of this entertainment. Oh, dear," she adds with a self satisfied little smirk. "That poor, sweet, little foreign fellow seems to have fallen over. Such a shame."

Étienne beams at Symon, "You may have to carry me home in bucket, but it'll be worth i!" He definitely seems excited by the proceedings. He softens his tone, "I'll be fine. Probably. I have your stone after all. Did you… want to tie on another favor as the stone isn't…." He blushes. Nevermind." He gives the guardsman a friendly smile, but his own house while old and storied is a cadet branch and not particularly elevated in the modern era, so perhaps he doesn't hold to the level of formality others might. Then he's leaning forward at the flurry of action, "Oh! watch, Symon! Did you see that?"

"Get up! Get up and fight like a Camaeline!" Isolde shouts from her place on the field. The giant woman peers at Ezio heatedly looking more than a little invested in this fight. Its her scion pride here, okay?

Audrialla gasps at that neck strike. Her hand flies to her lips in surprise as the pair nearly give in.

The combattants are going at it again. But the Camaeline manages to hit Andre's sword arm, which is more than he can deal with at the moment. And so he lowers his sword and then his head to admit defeat. "Well fought, Sir.", the young prince tells Ezio and offers a hand, "I bow to your skills and experience."

"Oh no!" Justine doesn't look pleased, but very concerned as she watches André go down. "It seems to be such a beastly thing. To hit each other with only the purpose of hurting each other," slips from her lips in a probably heretic statement, for Camaeline ears.

Ezio stares down his opponent for a long moment, before Andre attacks him. He moves out of the way and with a spin, strikes Andre at his sword arm with intense precision to cause the most pain. He looks back towards Andre as he admits defeat. Stretching out his hand, he shakes Andre's own with a smile. "Likewise, my friend. You did very well." He then looks over at Isolde and gives her a playful salute. before he looks at the pier of the Duchess, giving her a bow before he moves back to his banner. He got hurt, but he's a tough son of a bitch.

Ammy is meandering through the crowds of people attending the tourney, near the stands. It's crowded, so it's not unusual for him to have to bump into folks as they pass. After brushing against a particularly wealthy looking man, he offers an embellished, "Pardon me, my Lord." After they've separated, Ammy takes a moment to glance into the coin purse he just slipped from that man's pocket to pull out the dukats and drop them into his own pocket, letting the empty purse fall to the ground. "Oh, sorry," he says as he bumps into another noble…

Andre offers a bow to the Duchesse as well and, perhaps noticing the look of concern, offers a smile towards Justine, before he limps off to his tent to lick his wounds for the time being.

Valerie claps for both men as the duel comes to an end. She kept a perfectly calm expression the entire time and yet now she cannot help but smile faintly at the results of the match.

"You're right, of course," Philomene surprisingly agrees with Justine, resting an elbow on the fence and drawing up her left leg a little. "This sort of display is all rather absurd. I'm of the opinion that if you're going to fight, you don't do it for fun and play with them with little taps to hurt them. You do it to take the other fellow down hard and fast."

Symon glances up at the competition only when he hears cries go up. "Heavens," he comments quietly, but he doesn't forget to spare a wave for Gal. Then he looks back to Etienne, smiling. "W-well, I…" And then distractions! He looks back to the field. "Oh, he's down! B-but he's all right, surely."

Aidan applauds as the end of the bout happens having watched on the edge of his seat the entire time with a big old smile on his face the whole time.

Audrialla offers Philomene one of her slices of pan d'epice as she curtsies, standing as she is with Justine already. "Care for a bite, my lady? Fresh and warm still."

After a suitable exchange of pleasantries and deferences, Jehan-Pascal seats himself side by side with Favourite, and watches the fighting pleasantly enough. He's not much one for violence, but he appreciates the skill, for sure, and they're being gentlemen with each other. No blood. And he quietly lets his fingers explore and entwine themselves between the fingers of the Lady at his side, who turns aside in turn to slip him a sunny smile. Awwr.

"And here we have our first winner of a match in this round," the herald announces into the cheer of the crowd. "Ezio d'Aiglemort. Prince André did well but not well enough. A good fight!" There is an ominous pause, before he continues. "Next up will be Lady Isolde d'Eltoine against Lord Etienne d'Arguil!"

Étienne flashes his dimples at Symon, "They didn't carry him off the feild, so it's likely not serious." He starts as his name is called and puts his helmet on, "Wish me luck, sweet Symon."

Symon looks startled by the call. "Oh, w-wait," he says, and the best he can come up with is a rather plain blue handkerchief to tie on for Etienne. "W…watch your head."

Philomène glances to the baker, then shakes her head. "Not for me, thank you. I've little appetite for sweets. Save your stock for the starving masses, who will no doubt be glad of it. Now who in hell is that?" she asks, peering over towards the field as two more combatants make their way out.

Ezio looks over to Isolde as her name is called, and he smirks. "Fight with honor!" He calls out to the fighters both before he crosses his arms to watch. He does shed a look Valerie's way, and he gives the woman a smile if they lock eyes.

Audrialla take the change of competition to go back to wandering the crowd, offering hot spice bread and hand-pies of various types. She's always one for the advantage of a sale.

Hearing her name Isolde strides onto the field, shoulders squared and standing proud at her full height. The dark haired lady bows her head respectfully to the Ducal box then she draws her blade and salutes her opponent. "Fight well my Lord." Her voice is surprisingly gentle for one so large and she slips easily into a fighting stance, preparing herself.

Amber eyes lock with Ezio's own and Valerie returns his smile with a gentle one of her own. She dips her head to him politely, her gaze respectful. Then she is looking back towards the duels to see the upcoming match.

Ammy notices Audrialla and he smiles, moving toward her. "Hello, bakery lady!" he offers with a big grin. "Your bread smells wonderful!" He fishes into his pocket for a few dukats he's recently 'earned' and holds them out. "I'd love to have one, please!"

Gal paces his way along the barrier, brightening a little bit as he spots some of his fellow-guardsman hanging out to one end of the stands, and he hastens into a jog in full armor, planting a boot on a slat of fencing and hefting himself up and half over to reach out a hand and slap his palm against this palm and then that. His ex-boyfriend Cole is laughing at him, telling him how he's going to get his ass knocked down so hard he won't be able to get up again, and Gal just… returns the laughter in total agreement. "I sparred with that guy, once, he's super tough," he lets them know, of the first round winner, then, narrowing his eyes, he thinks he spots Ams back there from this vantage point.

"Ammy the Chandler!" Audrialla raises her hand to happily greet him and selects a slice of the nutmeg and cinnamon scented bread for him to enjoy. "Did you see the last spar? Such an exciting match! I can't say I know these two on the field but it should be grand all the same."

Theo moves through the field, smiling and exchanging greetings, until she notices Audrialla, making her way to the source of those delightful scents.. and she sees Ammy close, inclining her head politely to the Tsingano, before producing a small coin from her purse. "I should like a bit of that delicious pain d'epices, please.."

Ezio gives a respectful nod Valerie's way before his attention is back on Isolde and Etienne, his fingers slightly stroking his facial hair in ponderance of who will come out victorious in this bout.

Antoine watches in quiet, studying the next pair of competitors rather carefully for now. A glance to the crowds every now and then, then back to the competitors.

<COMBAT> Etienne has changed stance to Normal.
<COMBAT> Etienne will attack Isolde this turn. Options: called=head
<COMBAT> Isolde will attack Etienne this turn. Options: called=chest

Ammy shakes his head at Audrialla, "I didn't. Unfortunately, I was working and just now had de chance to come up here to de stands." He notices Gal out on the field, "Sheesh. Look at dat stupid gadje. He's going to get his face bashed in." He rolls his eyes, with a laugh, and then notices Theo. He bows, "Lady T'eo," he greets her, and then takes the nutmeg cinnamon bread. "My favorite, Audrialla. You remember! Dat's very kind of you!" To Theo, he notes, "Dis lady makes de BEST treats."

Étienne ducks he head, perfectly pleased by the handkerchief, "I'll do my best." He walks towards the center, graceful even in the armour and salutes Isolde. His accent is Azallese, "And you, my Lady."

<COMBAT> Etienne attacks Isolde with Broadsword and MISSES!
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Etienne with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Left Hand (Reduced by Armor).

Audrialla curtsies for Theo as she hands over another slice of delicious spice bread. Just in time for the next swordfighters to start bashing at one another.

<COMBAT> Etienne will attack Isolde this turn. Options: called=head
<COMBAT> Etienne attacks Isolde with Broadsword - NEAR MISS!
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Etienne with Broadsword - Critical wound to Head (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Etienne has been KO'd!
<COMBAT> Etienne spends a luck point to keep fighting!

"Thank you so much.." Theo grabs the piece of spice bread and bites into it. "I must confess, I figured there would be snacks here, so I have not had breakfast, so I am a little hungry.." A few grains of sugar stick to her upper lip as she chews, but she smiles to Ammy. "A pleasure to see you here too, messire Ammy. Are you enjoying the show?"

<COMBAT> Etienne will attack Isolde this turn. Options: called=Chest
<COMBAT> Isolde will attack Etienne this turn. Options: called=chest
<COMBAT> Etienne has changed stance to Banzai.
<COMBAT> Isolde has changed stance to Banzai.

Gal is less out on the field and more just the other side of the barrier; but he's in full armor, so one can only assume he's in contention, not just skirting the crowds. He catches Ammy looking at him and he waves over there, then turns about to hop back down from the rail and continue back along the way in which he'd come, pacing back toward Symon, while his eyes are locked on the combat.

<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Etienne with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Etienne attacks Isolde with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Right Hand (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Etienne has been KO'd!

"You recognize my cousin Etienne. He shot next to me at the archery lists, and I have no doubt but that he took the event," Jehan-Pascal remarks to Favourite, just in case she missed the semblance between Etienne in his fine shooting attire and the same man in the full armor that masks him just now.

Isolde doesn't waste time, she charges using all her strength and speed in a flawless string of attacks. She strikes Etienne on the hand followed by a slightly miscalulated strike that lands hard on the mans head. She winces and gives him an apologetic look but does not stop coming when she sees him get up again. Her next blow is lighter, striking accross the chest and she still doesn't let up, not until he yields.

Belmont watches the pairing with rapt attention. There is a flicker in his grey-blue eyes when the Camaeline woman gives a demonstration of her martial skill. Even if Etienne shows off some of his agility and manages a sound strike to Isolde, it will be her who is eventually victorious. The baron of Beaucare pays attention to their moves, aware of the fact that he might have to face off himself against one of them soon.

Étienne swings, but gets a solid smack to his hand for his trouble, shaking it, he tries to circle and is knocked down with a hard knock to the head, the clang wwringing out and the dent visible from the nearby stands. He seems dazed, but touching the handkerchief, he somehow staggers to his feet, swigging hard to her chest, which oppens him up and down he goes wheezing. Archery champion he may be, but it's not his day on the feild. When he finally has thebreathto rise, he bows and salutes her, "You are a wwonder. I wish we hadyour like when the raiders come.

Symon bangs a hand against the barrier. "She's trying to take his head off!" he calls in a complaining tone. He looks quite anxious to see the man go down, but relieved when he rises.

"Aaaaand… Lady Isolde d'Eltoine wins this match. Well fought, Lord Etienne d'Arguil. There will be another chance for you in the loser's bracket." The herald announces the outcome, and the crowd cheers. "Next… we will see the pairings of Lord Belmont d'Eresse against Gal the guard, and Lord Antoine Valais against Lady Valerie Cherevin."

Ammy flashes a charming smile at Theodosia, "I've certainly seen a lot of t'ings I like, if dat's what you mean," he answers playfully. He takes a bite of the bread, chewing it swiftly with his mouth open and then swallowing. "How are de fights going? I'm here to see my friend get beat up." To her and Audrialla he asks, "Are you cheering for anyone?"

Theodosia watches the combat and she applauds widly seeing Isolde fight so well. "Well, it looks like ladies are having fun here.." The short girl winks at Ammy, then she has to stand on tip toe to watch. "Well, from now on, I'm cheering for milady Isolde!"

Oh heck. Jehan-Pascal's introduction of Etienne to Favourite is barely left his lips when Etienne gets hit hard on the head and he half-rises from his seat, thighs tensing in concern until his cousin rises again and seems well enough. "That seemed a needless blow," he murmurs aside to his fiancee, and she, in turn, finds his hand, sliding her fingers along his palm soothingly.

With a soft whispered command Valerie sends her handmaiden on an errand while she watches the match. Soon the young maid approches Ezio with a small note tied with an elegant amber ribbon. She offers him the note and quietly informs him of who it comes from before departing. Valerie for her part remains composed and focused on the match. Only for it to be her turn next. She glides to her feet and moves into the ring, much smaller than the other fighters here today it looks like. But she has a determined look to her as she bows her head to the Duchess and salutes Antoine politely. She is calm, not speaking as she readies herself.

His name is called, and Belmont exhales, straightening. He lifts his sword and enters the field, walking towards the spot where he is about to face the ominous 'Gal the guard'. He may look a touch amused, a little mystified, but there it is. There is a promise of a tale in such a pairing, and Belmont is Eisandine enough to appreciate the mystery and the curious choice of his opponent.

Gal's ears prick up when his name is called… metaphorically, of course. He hurries on by Symon with a brief look to the fellow, a half-smile as he breaks into a jog and hurries over to grab his helm from its stand and set it in place over his curls, giving it a slight jostle while he finds the place to square off against his opponent.

Antoine lets out a bit of a breath as he watches, pausing as he hears his name called. Moving to get into position, he checks over his armor for a few moments, before he offers a smile to his opponent. "Good luck," he offers, quietly, before he readies himself for the fight.

<COMBAT> Gal has changed stance to Evade.

Isolde actually smiles at Étienne. "It was an honor to fight you my Lord. And It would be an honor to fight beside you sometime, should such be needed. Please get that head wound seen too. I fear I was a bit overeager." She bows her head politely and leaves the ring to rest.

Gal doesn't seem all that ominous a figure, really. Just a Guardsman out to try his luck against the nobility. He seems on the skittish side, though he smiles warmly enough to Belmont across their space… he holds his blade aloft in a salute, then turns his body defensively, looking avoidant rather than aggressive…. or maybe just luring Belmont in.

<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Antoine with Broadsword - Light wound to Right Arm (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Gal with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Belmont with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Antoine attacks Valerie with Broadsword - Critical wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).

Philomène purses her lips as the bouts continue, deciding abruptly after another Camaeline victory that she's had enough for today. Justine gets a brief nod, and then she's limping back away to where her horse waits patiently. The crippled older woman heaves herself astride the mare, suddenly appearing a far more menacing threat. It's not just the extra height afforded her, or the way her coat tails part to display the scabbarded long sword and dagger she's rarely without, but the fact that she looks somehow more at home on horseback, and as though she could quite happily charge through the lists without breaking a sweat. She does not charge through the lists, however. Instead, she turns her horse and heads away. Enough of this for one day.

Étienne bows to her again, and staggers towards the barrier, completely failing to get his helmet off. Still, he tries to smile for Symon, "A hand?" He gets his wits back enough to ask, "Friend of yours?"

<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Antoine with Broadsword - ARMOR on Right Arm stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Belmont with Broadsword - Critical wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Antoine attacks Valerie with Broadsword - Serious wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Gal with Broadsword but Gal DODGES!
<COMBAT> Valerie has been KO'd!

Ammy hears Gal's name, and he looks to the field, raising his fist into the air. "GAAAALLLLLL!!!!" he yells loudly. "DON'T DIE TOO BADLY!!!" He laughs, and mutters to Theodosia, "He's totally going to die."

<COMBAT> Gal attacks Belmont with Broadsword but Belmont DODGES!
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Gal with Broadsword but Gal DODGES!

Symon looks back over his shoulder. "Who?" he asks, then leans over the barrier to work at getting Etienne's helmet off. "Are you b-bleeding?" he asks. "I said you should w…watch your head. I had a feeling."

Valerie starts off cautious but it works against her. Two blows to the chest have her reeling in pain. Amber eyes narrow as she struggles to breath, staggering back. She cannot…breathe. She lifts her hands in surrender trying to hide the shame in her eyes. She smiles faintly to Antoine and once she can manage it she speaks. "You win. Well fought my lord. I am sorry I was not much of a challenge." She has a stubborn look to her gaze, refusing to show weakness even as she moves off the field. She wants to clutch her chest but she has too much pride and self control to show just how much pain she is in.

Belmont salutes, giving Gal a good-natured, "May the better one win," before they engage in their first exchange of blows. Belmont may have seen battle, but he is a baron too, and maybe his duties have taken a toll on the time he usually spends in the training yard. His first strike is a sound one, and it connects at Gal's chest, the next goes astray as the agile guardsman manages to dodge — and lands a pretty hard strike in turn! That came certainly unexpected, and causes one or two d'Angeline curse words to slip from Belmont's lips. It seems he is on his guard then, literally, as he dodges Gal's next blow, and the guardsman does the same, in a careful dance of circling each other, seeking an opening in the other's defense.

Ezio watches the multiple spars that are taking place before his attention shifts to the handmaiden who brings him a note. tilting his head ever so softly, he accepts the note and he reads it. Looking back to the handmaiden, he writes down an affirmative statement and accepts the favor that came with it. Then his attention is on the fights as they come to a close, and he claps for the contestants as fights come to a close. "Well Fought!"

Antoine starts off with some powerful strikes, although as he sees Valerie stagger, he holds back a bit, looking a bit concerned as he studies her. He nods to her words, offering her a smile. "Thank you, my lady. I must apologize if my strikes hurt you more than what's expected in such a competition." There's a brief pause as he studies her again, before he adds, "Good luck in your next match."

Gal keeps low, keeps his profile slight, his blade angled defensively in a firm grip as though simply to parry rather than strike. And he doesn't even do that, to start, but takes a hit to his breastplate and slips his own blade up beneath to tap Belmont on his in turn. The next blow, at least, he jumps back to miss, then spins and pivots back to whip the side of his blade in against Belmont's chest with some impressive force behind it. It might even hurt his own arm, as he dances back and looks to loosen himself, giving Belmont some time to recover, as well, with a faint effort easily deflected. It's every instinct, at that point, to go after his opponent, but he maintains discipline, holds back, waits for his opponent to come to him, dipping the tip of his blade invitingly.

"Lord Antoine de Valais wins against Lady Valerie Cherevin. That was a pretty powerful strike, my lord!", the herald announces, and the crowd cheers, even as the other match is still ongoing.

Étienne is definitely bleeding, the blood dripping from his hair. He gives him a soft look, "clever, clever Symon. She's really good, you know. I've seen her fight before…. I don't suppose you have some wine?" Bruising on that side of his face is coming up, but even with the early Spring tan, he has the sort of skin that shows it's bruises easy. His tone is gentle, "we should clean and wrap it, but I'll be all right, I promise." He is too dazed to properly watch the contests unfold after his.

Still watching calmly and with a smile on his face, Yves is patiently awaiting his turn as the rounds of duels unfold and with each pass another brilliant exchange. Seeing the swordplay at work, he seems to be enjoying himself and calls out a simple, "Good show!" and nothing else. He does watch as they leave the field, but not saying anything yet. He'd save introductions and greetings on a personal level until after the tournament.

<COMBAT> Gal attacks Belmont with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Gal with Broadsword but Gal DODGES!
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Gal with Broadsword but Gal DODGES!
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Belmont with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Abdomen (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Belmont has been KO'd!
<COMBAT> Belmont spends a luck point to keep fighting!
<COMBAT> Gal will attack Belmont this turn.
<COMBAT> Belmont will attack Gal this turn.

Symon is somewhat alarmed by the blood. "I haven't any w… Can w-we go see a sister of Eisheth or something to get you p-patched?" He holds the helmet away from himself, not keen to get blood on his clothes. "Head w…wounds are dangerous."

<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Gal with Broadsword - Critical wound to Head (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Belmont with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Gal has been KO'd!

Isolde approches Étienne and Symon just then, a healer following her, carrying a bottle of something alcoholic and some bandages. The lady bows her head to them both. "Lord Étienne. I am once again sorry for hitting you upside the head. Please, accept the services of my healer as an apology, you companion is right. Head wounds are nasty." She looks to Symon and bows her head. "Sorry for hurting him so bad. Sometimes my strength is a bit much…."

"You are quick with the blade," Belmont observes as he moves in a circle, around Gal, and the other does the same in turn, their gazes locked, as if a twitch of a brow might give away the next moment of attack. He does not even dodge the next strike of the guardsman, but the guardsman in turn swiftly steps out of the way, when Belmont's sword comes at him. "Just quick," Belmont corrects himself, before Gal's blade proves to him the opposite. The other hard blow he has taken has his body screan with agony, and this agony is amplified now, when Gal's strikes at his abdomen, with a blow so hard it brings Belmont to his knees. For a moment. For a moment it seems, as if the Eresse lord may yield. Until grey-blue eyes lift, and the baron jumps to his feet, mustering all his remaining strength and focusing it in one single hard blow, aimed to bring down the guardsman.

Valerie waves off any attempts at being seen to by healers. Instead she settles under her pavillion to catch her breath. When her handmaiden returns to her she smiles faintly at something and nods slowly to herself. She seems in better spirits now, though her expression remains hard to read.

Gal is laconic in the fight, not replying verbally to Belmont's compliments, though there's a little smile appreciative of the appreciation. He is disciplined; he holds back, waits for Belmont to commit himself, goes out of his way, then shoves in with his hind leg to thrust into the maile that keeps that from being an eviscerating stab. He waits, blade raised in a salute-hold, while Belmont decides whether to rise again, and is prepared again when he does so, nodding to him his readiness, then dipping in and down, making a play to dip straight under that blow— and instead he is not quite quick enough, and he puts the side of his head right in the way of the blade. His helmet rings. His neck twists. His body twists after it, fortunately, and the guardsman is suddenly laid face down in the dust, arms and legs out to his sides. If his fingers don't let go of the grip of his sword it's only because they are caught in a spasm of pain that white-knuckles them around it.

Étienne takes the helmet and sets it aside, "I'm fine. Really. I ust need a little time to stop… I'll be fine. It's really sweet of you to worry. we just need to stop the bleeding so it doesn't get in my eye for the next bout. Anyway, it's just my head; it's no like I'm using it." He seems more cheerful by the moment. He bows again to lady Isolde, "Somehow you are even more impressive than last time! Have you met Lord Symon de Perigeux? I was trying to hit you in your head, so I really have no cause for complaint. Thank you!" he submits to the healer's ministrations.""

Antoine has just gotten off the field again when he sees Gal take the hit to the head. "Ouch…" he mutters, wincing as he watches,. There's a glance to the crowd, to see their reaction, then back to the fallen man on the field.

Symon might have been inclined to be resentful of Isolde, but he is very pleased to see this healer she's brought, so he dips his head at her in return. "It's kind of you to b-bring someone over," he acknowledges. Then he frowns at Etienne. "The next b-bout? Are you sure that's…" He nods again at Isolde. "Charmed."

"And… Lord Belmont d'Eresse, after almost going down turns the odds in his favor in one single ferocious attack! Cheer for the baron of Beaucare. Gal the guardsman, you fought well and you can prove your prowess once again in the loser's bracket!", the herald calls, and the crowd cheers once again. They are treated to quite a spectacle today and they truly appreciate it. "Next will be… Lord Yves Valliers facing off against Lady Isolde d'Eltoine, two of Camlach's stock they are. And… Lord Aidan Delaunay will fight against Lord Ezio d'Aiglemort!"

Ammy cheers loudly as Gal looks to have the upper hand. "YEAH! GAL, GET HIM! YOU CAN" and then Gal takes that final blow and drops to the ground. "EWWWww." He sighs, and he furrows his brow a little. "Dat's gonna leave a mark."

When it is clear that Gal remains on the ground, Belmont steps closem dropping his sword as he kneels down beside the youth, to check if he is alright. "Well fought," he murmurs, with a bit of regret coloring his voice.

<FS3> Belmont rolls Medicine: Failure. (4 2 3 5 5 1)

Theodosia was probably busy munching on her spiced bread and finding if there are any wine sellers around, the girl likes a nibble, it seems but she returns just in time to see Gal fall. "Oh dear.." She says, shaking her head, then leans in to whisper to Ammy. "Do you think he'll be all right?"

"A hard fought victory!" Yves calls out as the battle between Gal and Belmont comes to a dramatic conclusion, the outcome drastically swaying between each of the men. Seeing as the man was a guard, to even come so close to victory is truly a testament to his training and dedication. Worthy of praise. As his name is called, he strides out into the dueling ring and proceeds to stretch a touch, turning his waist from side to side and loosening up his wrist.

Belmont tries to gauge the gravity of the damage. "Healers," he calls, moving to stand and staggering back from where Gal is laying in the dirt of the field. "This man is injured."

Ammy shakes his head, "No. But his brain was damaged before, so no one will prolly notice a difference," he responds to Theodosia. Pursing his lips a bit, he thinks a moment, and then sighs. "Maybe I should go help him?" He looks at Theodosia, almost for her opinion.

"Its the least I could do. It is nice to meet you Lord Symon. Make sure Lord Étienne recovers yes? I must go prepare for the next round." And then her name is called and Isolde waves to the pair before heading back into the ring. She eyes Yves and bows her head politely to the Duchess before saluting her fellow warrior from Camlach. "Good luck to you my Lord." She offers softly, sliding into a fighting stance and readying herself.

Theo stares at Ammy, then at the prone Gal. "Ouch…well..are you a good healer?" She asks, clearly not sure what the Tsingano's skills are. She licks some leftover cinnamon sugar off her fingers and looks a bit dubious.

Gal finally gets his hand to let go of his sword and he sort of gropes for Belmont next to him, looking for a hand up. He tries turning his head and that's gonna be a big ol' nope, but, "Bwehhh," he is at least making noises and looking for a hand to get turned to his side. "Thanksss," he grimaces into a hissing smile.

Aidan grins and applauds as the next bout finishes up giving cheers for both winners and losers in the duels. Then his name's called off and he goes and checks his armor before he steps out into the dueling area as he waits for his opponent to arrive.

"No," Ammy answers. "I don't heal at all. But, he's gonna need someone to make fun of him, too." He asks her then, "Do you heal? I could escort you down?"

Étienne finally notices what's happening on the field and winces as the Guardsman goes down. He gives Symon a reassuring smile, "I was hurt a lot worse last time. Remember they had to cart me home in a carriage?" He flashes his most charming smile at Isolde, "I do wish you best of luck." He nudes Symon gently over the barrier as he rises.

Ezio's name is called and he smirks a little bit to himself when he sees who his opponent is. "It seems I have a new challenger. Lets have some fun." He tells Aiden as he steps onto the field and prepares himself for combat.

<COMBAT> Aidan has changed stance to cautious.

"Of course I remember," Symon says to Etienne, and then shrugs at something else he says. "Are you sure you w…want to fight again? How you are feeling, really?"

Healers are rushing to the field to check on the young guardsman. They are carrying him off to the side so that they can check on him there. Belmont is following in their wake.

Valerie claps politely as Ezio retakes the field for his next bout. The lady watches this next pair of matches intently, her amber eyes thoughtful. Her expression is unreadable, serene and calm as she observes the match about to begin.

<COMBAT> Yves attacks Isolde with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Yves with Broadsword but Yves DODGES!
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Light wound to Left Arm (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Right Arm (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Isolde with Broadsword but Isolde DODGES!
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Aidan with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Ezio with Broadsword but Ezio DODGES!
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Yves with Broadsword but Yves DODGES!
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Isolde with Broadsword but Isolde DODGES!
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Ezio with Broadsword but Ezio DODGES!
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Aidan with Broadsword but Aidan DODGES!
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Yves with Broadsword but Yves DODGES!

Gal is flying, suddenly, and the world is still spinning, a little, so there's certainly that to contend with. But he tries his best to be useful to the carrying effort, and soon his feet are moving almost in time with theirs, even if he's leaning heavily on the healers to keep him going in a straight line. Someone got his bell rung.

"And you, my lady, that was an excellent first match," the young Valliers replies, pre-match. Once the contest begins, Yves' young teenage face takes on a serious look, not because he's angry or filled with some sort of seething wrath. But because this is a serious thing, and he treats it with the respect it deserves. Stepping forward demonstrates his customary fencing acumen, drawing a lifting cut but it seems that they are suited to a bunch of dodging and narrow misses.

Étienne reaches for Symon's hand, then remembers his guantlet. "You're my luck charm. I'll be fine. It was… very brave of you to come to watch." He eyes Gal. "That poor man."

Ezio and Aidan are in full throttle offense and defense alike! Ezio manages to strike Aidan directly in the right arm just as he's attacked in his own arm, though for admittedly lighter damage. All the same, the next few exchanges between Ezio and Aidan is near poetic for how much they're moving and dodging around each other like there's not a care in the world. This will be a good match for certain.

Aidan offers Ezio a salute with his sword, "Let us have a good duel m'lord." Then the fight begins. Feinting low then bringing his blade up he manages a minor little hit to Ezio's arm but takes a harder one to his own. Then they begin the back and forth feinting or dodging neither one managing to inflict anything serious for a bit.

Isolde dips her head respectfully to Yves as the fight begins, then the giant woman is moving. She is quick to avoid most of the young lord strikes, at least he doesn't seem to damage her. But then he is equally fast and she cannot hit him either. She smiles faintly and just keeps pushing herself, coming at him again and again. She doesn't seem angry but she does have a stubborn look in those violet eyes, a dedication to her movements that make them appear all the more intimidating.

<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Isolde with Broadsword - Light wound to Left Hand (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Ezio with Broadsword but Ezio DODGES!
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Yves with Broadsword but Yves DODGES!
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Isolde with Broadsword - ARMOR on Neck stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Ezio with Broadsword but Ezio DODGES!
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Yves with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Left Hand (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Isolde with Broadsword - Serious wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Yves with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Abdomen (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Serious wound to Left Leg.
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Ezio with Broadsword and MISSES!

Symon pats Etienne's gauntlet while looking off at Gal. "I hope he's all right," he says, then looks back to Etienne. "B-but of course I w…wouldn't m…miss it. How could I? I w-want to know what happens! And w…when you w-win, it's thrilling!"

<COMBAT> Aidan has changed stance to normal.
<COMBAT> Isolde has changed stance to cautious.

Trading blows with Isolde, Yves continues to play at a rather neutral stance. His feet shifting as he twists and dodges and fails to find continued success, quickly deciding to be more mindful of his parries and ripostes. His eyes never leaving his opponent, now that they are so closely engaged in the duel.

Isolde takes a few rough hits as the duel with Yves continues. She shifts her stance to something a bit more cautious and probing but she never really ceases her attacks. She keeps looking for openings getting strikes in wherever she can.

Aidan had started the fight out cautious but finding that he's up against a talented warrior he's starting to become a bit more aggressive. Not going to win by being defensive. Besides he took multiple injuring hits while on the defensive.

Ammy watches as the healers race out to Gal. He thinks another moment, and then says to Theodosia, "Ugh. I should make sure he isn't too dead. Excuse me." With that, he makes his way down to the edge of the field and joins the healers who are tending to Gal. "Hey!" He yells at Gal, apparently if you yell it makes hurt people less hurt? "You were supposed to move out of de way, dummy!"

Ezio and Aidan seems to be taking a grim turn in Ezio's favor. Ezio is slippery this exchange, dodging and weaving between Aidan's powerful and quick blows in exchange for counterattacking with powerful strikes of his own. Its remarkable and a testament to Aidan's durability that the warrior has not fallen. With a nod of approval to his opponent, Ezio charges again!

<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Yves with Broadsword but Yves DODGES!
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Ezio with Broadsword but Ezio DODGES!
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Isolde with Broadsword - Light wound to Right Leg (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Light wound to Right Arm (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Isolde with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Right Hand (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Yves with Broadsword - ARMOR on Neck stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Isolde has been KO'd!

The healers extract Gal from his helmet, which seems to have become slightly bent in on one side, and once they do, he leans over behind the bench they've got him on and vomits. They kindly hold him up from falling into it, and ease him upward again. One of his eyes is closed, and he seems to prefer it that way. "Uhhnn, better," he declares, as though a good puke were all he needed. But they're going to wrap his head for him with a nice poultice, anyhow. "Ams?" No, the yelling is good. He can ar it over the ringing and hia hearbeat in his ears. "Eh-heh-heh," he even laughs at the joke. "I for— got."

<COMBAT> Isolde spends a luck point to keep fighting!
<COMBAT> Isolde has changed stance to banzai.

Aidan continues his bout with Ezio and the Delaunay Scion of Camael is just too stubborn to accept defeat just yet and continues the fight despite the constant battering he's received and seems to continue to receive. He presses his attacks no longer worrying about being defensive but trying to push into the fight.

<COMBAT> Aidan has changed stance to banzai.
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Isolde with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Yves with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Serious wound to Left Arm (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Ezio with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Aidan has been KO'd!
<COMBAT> Isolde has been KO'd!

Antoine lets out a brief breath as he watches the fights, unable to hold back a grin as he watches.

Étienne lights up like sun striking metal, "It means a lot to me, Sweet Symon." He is watching the fights properly now, recovered enough to focus. he smiles faintly at Ammy's talk for Gal.

"Have some water," Belmont tells Gal, when the young guardsman seems to be fit enough to speak. He offers him a cup of fresh water. "You should drink some. That was… some fight, Master Gal."

As he'd planned, Yves strides forward and lands first a clean blow to Isolde's leg followed by a more decisive one to her hand. Rocking and then bouncing back on his toes, he watches as she readies herself for the continued match. "Good," he says with a big smile as they continue to duel, his eyes following her every action. As she lunges in aggressively, he back-steps a half-step and brings his sword up, sidestepping with another lifting cut with both hands, aiming for her chest.

Aidan finally has had enough as he's dropped to his knee holding up a hand, "I know that I can't continue m'lord. Well fought."

Ezio is impressed with how durable and tough Aiden has been through their bout. Even though they both exchange blows to each other, Ezio manages a mighty blow to Aidan's arm to bring him to a knee. "Well fought indeed, my friend. You did your House proud." he lowers a hand to Aidan to help him up to his feet.

Ammy rolls his eyes at Gal, "Well, it looks like dat stupid head of yours took a good blow. Lucky for you, your skull is so t'ick dat de damage is prolly minimal." He says to Belmont, "T'anks for seeing to him. I'm not paying for dat, dough."

Oh, water sounds nice. Gal lifts up both arms for the cup, well-coordinated enough to do so, and also to bring it to his lips, though the first mouthful is for a swish and spit, 'cause, y'know. Puke. The second one is for drinking. "It was, my Lord. Thank you for it. You're… really strong," he offers up the first compliment that comes to mind, which is not a great one, but it's… well, it's true.

"I don't v…v…very m-much like seeing you get hit, though," Symon admits. "I never liked m-martial training m-much m…myself."

Gal adds a sideways grin for Ams and all his teasing. "I'mma be fine, Ams," he seems to see through the teasing to some sort of actual concern for his well-being. "The world's almost done spinning, I think. Slowing down."

For a moment Isolde thinks she might be out of the fight. But sheer stubbornness has the woman staggering forward in a final charge. She gets a final hit in before she is forced back by yet another strike. Her hands lift and she grins at Yves. "You win this one. Well fought. It was an honor to face you." She salutes him with respect in those violet eyes and moves to leave the ring.

Aidan accepts Ezio's hand and climbs back up to his feet, "Hope to do a bit more than just make them proud but you were a formidable foe."

Étienne leans forward, swaying a little as the bout gets heated, "Symon, that is really brilliant swordplay." he suddenly looks terribly distressed, "Your stutter came back…" He takes a breath, "In a few days, lets go somewhere jolly and we can dance instead."

"Companions, what a fight," the herald calls. "Camaeline valor, there. Lord Yves Valliers wins in his fight against Lady Isolde d'Eltoine. And… Lord Ezio d'Aiglemort too, accepts Lord Aidan Delaunay's defeat. Now… in the next round we have Camaelines facing Eisandines, again. Cheer for our valorous swordsmen. Lord Antoine de Valais will face Lord Yves Valliers. And… Lord Belmont d'Eresse is to fight Lord Ezio d'Aiglemort!"

Ezio just stays on the field since the battles will no doubt continue, especially when his opponent is proclaimed and announced. "May we have an excellent battle, Lord Belmont. Come at me with everything you have." he grins devilishly as he salutes.

Antoine lets out a bit of a breath as he watches, before he hears his own name called. Moving to get into position for this, he offers a nod and a smile to Yves. "May the best man win, my lord," he offers to him, before he moves into position to be ready for this.

"I won't charge you," Belmont replies towards Ammy with a faint smirk, before he turns his attention once again to Gal. "So are you, Master Gal. Strong. I shouldn't have underestimated you… Perhaps, Companions willing, we shall face each other again, at the end. Who knows?" But for now, he has to leave Gal to the care of the healers, as his name is called. "Lord Ezio," Belmont greets the opponent of his next match, saluting him with his sword. "I am honored." There is no mockery in his tone, and his eyes are alert as they consider the Camaeline.

The youthful Valliers Lord, Yves calls a well meaning, "I look forward to another," and smiles after the departing woman. Straightening out his armor and rubbing at the sore spots where he'd been struck most soundly, he walks around the dueling ring a few times, stretching slightly. Rolling his wrist and forearm again as he prepares for Antoine. He nods at the words, but says nothing in reply. Donning the mask of his serious face as he lifts his sword into a guard.

<COMBAT> Yves attacks Antoine with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Antoine attacks Yves with Broadsword but Yves DODGES!
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Belmont with Broadsword - Light wound to Neck (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Antoine with Broadsword but Antoine DODGES!
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Right Arm (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Belmont with Broadsword - ARMOR on Right Arm stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Antoine attacks Yves with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Belmont with Broadsword - Serious wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Antoine with Broadsword - Serious wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Serious wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Antoine attacks Yves with Broadsword but Yves DODGES!

"It never w…went," Symon replies, glancing at Etienne. "I think you only b-believe it does sometimes." He winces a little at the end of the bout. "B-but yes, do let us go and dance. W…when you're b-better. Had enough of the fighting today?" He glances Etienne's way.

Gal lets loose a fluffy little flutter of laughter when Belmont supposes he, Gal, might make it through the entire losers' heat and get to the end with him again, but he makes flattered eyes at the Lord, at any rate, and gives him a soft spoken, "Go get 'em, Lord Belmont," as he goes to face his next match. He'll sip at his water and turn to smile at Ammy. "Thanks for coming to check on me. You're a good friend."

Exchanging blows with Antoine, Yves' defense is at first focused on dodging again, but again that seems to be fruitless. So he instead he tries to rely more on his parries and ends up offering up a decent blow to the other man's chest. A pleasant look on his face, if perhaps a touch focused, he watches his opponent's every move. "Well struck," he calls out to his opponent for the hit to the chest.

Antoine gets in a hit, before he takes a solid one, grimacing a bit from the impact. "You as well," he calls out back to Yves. "Now stand still, will you?" The words are followed by a brief laugh as he circles around a little bit.

Étienne looks concerned, "Think we should offer our condolences?" he shakes his head, "I'll be up again eventually, and I'd like to see how it turns out." And lean against the barrier a bit longer until he's sure he can walk straight, but it wouldn't due to let Symon know that.

The signal is given, and Belmont and Ezio start to go at each other. The Eresse lord tries to go for powerful, efficient strikes this time, and he deals them to Ezio's chest, his sword arm, and again to his chest. In turn, he is not quick enough to evade the Camaeline's strikes, and they too hit home with painful precision. "You hit hard, my lord," Belmont manages through clenched teeth, catching a breath, as he readies himself for the next exchange of blows with Ezio.

"Are you sure?" Symon asks. "I'm sure no one w…would m-mind if you dropped your second b-bout. You w…were hit in the head, everyone saw." He squints out at the field.

Ezio is in a dangerous spot. He trades blows with Belmont in a heated battle which takes a beating on both men, especially since it seems that Ezio is standing like a stubborn giant. "As do you, my Lord." he takes a deep breath as if he attempts to focus. nonetheless, Ezio pays back every single blow he takes.

<COMBAT> Yves attacks Antoine with Broadsword but Antoine DODGES!
<COMBAT> Antoine attacks Yves with Broadsword and MISSES!
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Belmont with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Head.
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Antoine with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Right Arm (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Belmont with Broadsword - Critical wound to Neck (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Antoine attacks Yves with Broadsword but Yves DODGES!
<COMBAT> Belmont has been KO'd!
<COMBAT> Antoine attacks Yves with Broadsword but Yves DODGES!
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Antoine with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Antoine has been KO'd!

"I shall endeavor to stand still, my lord," Yves says, and does no such thing, because it was clearly just good natured jesting between skilled swordsman. The teenage boy sidestepping and bringing his sword around at Antoine's right arm, he clips the man on the arm, following it up with a precise but unreturned stab to the other man's chest.

Ammy rolls his eyes at Gal. "I'm not checking on you." He folds his arms over his chest, "I just needed to make sure he didn't kill you because dat's my job. I get to kill de stupid gadje." He offers a little smirk, then clears his throat. "Dat guy was good."

Étienne beams at Symon, "Any fight I can walk away from is a good fight. It's… sweet that you worry." Quick! Distract! "What would you like for supper, have you thought? And what sort of wine to go with it. Watch them! One seldom sees sword play that skilled!"

Antoine clearly can't succeed here, his opponent is too fast. He takes the hits, wincing a bit as he does. That last one, even if it was not the hardest, manages to catch him off balance, and he stumbles backwards. While he's able to regain his balance, he shakes his head. "It's quite clear that you are the better one in this fight, my lord. Congratulations." He holds back a bit of a grimace as he stands up further. "Well fought."

Gal flutters his lashes at Ams. Or maybe that's just a leftover heaviness of his lids. But he's smiling. "Yeah, he was. And here I thought I had him, for a second. Like a moron," he laughs. "Look, he's even taking a piece out of that guy," he shakes his head. "That guy's a beast," he grins.

"Oh, I smelled something spiced on the w…wind," Symon says. "It p-put me in the m…mood for something like that." He turns his head to look out at the field. "How is anyone supposed to react so quickly?"

It is a hard fight, a painful one. And Belmont puts all of his force in the next strike, as he aims for Ezio's chest in the attempt to send him staggering backwards a little. Almost at the same instant, Ezio's sword connects with the area between his neck and shoulder, and the baron lets out a choked cry of pain. His next strike is already lacking some of the former momentum, when the Camaeline deals him an even harder blow to about the same area he hit before. It brings Belmont to his knees, and this time he drops his sword, indicating with a nod of his head and a whispered, "I yield," his defeat.

"The further we proceed, the harder the fights," the herald observes in his loud booming voice. "Cheer for Lord Yves Valliers, and for Lord Ezio d'Aiglemort. Camlach seems to be victorious so far. And Eisande… I mean, Lord Antoine de Valais and Lord Belmont d'Eresse will have their second chance in the loser's bracket."

Étienne smiles softly, "Something spicey then…" His yes stay on the duel until it's end. "It's training. If you drill long enough and hard enough, a lot of it is second nature. You really have to move it to be as good as that though. I liked it, but I never loved it the way you need to to be a truly great swordsman. It has to be the most important thing in your life, and I'm… not that kind of focused."

Ezio stands his ground like the wall between the defenders and the attackers during a siege. he takes a powerful hit, but he responds gloriously with a powerful blow to Belmont's neck, hard enough to knock the man down. "You are a worthy opponent." Ezio falls to a knee briefly before he rises again, offering Belmont a hand up to his feet. "Well done my lord." Ezio's war wound seems to be seriously bothering him, but willpower pushes him forward.

"You were a hard opponent," Belmont tells Ezio, accepting the hand the other gives him to help him to his feet. "I think I need to sit down for a moment and recover, until I am to fight again." He offers a nod towards the Vicomte de Vienne, before he staggers off, towards the side.

Ammy nods, "Yeah. You get your shit toget'er for de next fight." He offers a little salute, "Don't let de next one hit you so bad." He smiles, and he heads back into the crowd.

Walking around the dueling ring, Yves watches the departing Antoine and calls out a good-natured, "And you, my lord," he calls after the man and waits for the next announcement from the Duchesse. Pacing around the ring, working the kinks and bruises out of his body. Feeling it a bit here and there, but nothing too bad. Moving over to Ezio's dueling ring, he lifts his dueling sword in salute to his fellow Camaeline. Drawing back his sword, he lifts it into a guard and lets the smile relax. Focusing on the upcoming exchange with the man twice his age and experience. Both having reached this round through several hard won preceding rounds.

"I suppose we m…must have good fighters to stay safe, only…" Symon shrugs and trails off. "Anyway, it is impressive, don't m…misunderstand. I think it's w-wonderful you can fight like that."

Ezio looks over at Yves as he arrives properly into his dueling ring. He saluted his opponent in return before he descends into a stance. Ezio was beat up and still ticking…though how long would that last? "Looks like there's just us. May skill prevail."

Justine had resisted the urge to follow André to his tent right away. But with all that brutal swordplay going on in the field, she has risen and gone for a little stroll, her goblet of wine just refilled and still held in her hand. Looking towards the field now, she offers the young Valliers a beaming smile, before she remarks to a lady at her side, "And he looks so young…"

The duchesse gives the herald a nod, and there comes the signal for the two Camaeline lords to begin.

Étienne looks Symon in the eyes, "It is important to me to be able to defend the ones I love, no matter the field of battle."

<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Serious wound to Head (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword but Yves DODGES!
<COMBAT> Ezio has been KO'd!

"It's good to know Camlach will have had a good showing either way," Yves admits with a grin, not certain how this exchange will go. Sword in a guard, he advances, trying not to make a similar mistake to the ones he'd made previously. Striding forward, he dodges the initial advance and then swings with a backhand blow, catching Ezio soundly across the helmet. He immediately begins to circle then, preparing to continue the exchange, but it seems that is no longer necessary.

And what could Symon possibly say to that. He nods once and nudges Etienne's arm. "It looks like the b-blood stopped flowing, at least," he comments.

Gal looks after Ams, about to say something else, maybe, but instead content to slouch there and let his armor hold him up while the poultice relieves some of the pounding in his head and he works his neck side to side a little bit, trying to work out its own particular soreness. When Belmont comes off to the side again, "I thought you had him," he thinks enough to say. He certainly doesn't expect the next round to be almost done by the time he says so.

Armandine de Mereliot leans forward in her seat, as the bout between Yves and Ezio commences. And there is a soft sigh as she leans back after observing its quick conclusion. She gestures for the herald to make the announcement, and there it comes. "Lord Yves Valliers defeats Lord Ezio d'Aiglemort. And thus remains victorious in the winner's bracket. Lord Yves will have some opportunity to recover from his matches, as there will be the loser's bracket to sort out next. And so… as soon as they are ready, I call forth Lord Etienne d'Arguil who is to face Master Gal of the city guard."

"It was close," Belmont replies to Gal, visibly relieved to see him further recovered. "Ah…" His head turns and his eyes narrow, watching the quick work Yves makes of Ezio. "I certainly didn't expect that fight to be so quickly and clearly decided. Perhaps I have worn him out."

Pausing to make sure Ezio has no problems making his way from the dueling ring, Yves hands over his dueling sword to an attendant to see that it is properly repaired. The damage it'd taken to be hammered out, and any damage there inspected to make sure the weapon didn't shatter during combat, risking life and limb. Turning toward the Duchesse at her herald's words, he bows and proceeds to a spot to sit and relax for a time. Taking a bit of drink and some food to pass the time.

"Huh— wha? Is he down?" Gal looks back to the field, absolutely baffled that such a thing had happened. "That's got to be it. He did look pretty beat by the time you guys were done," he speaks loosely, in commoners' vernacular, maybe less suitably than he might with a nobleman. Then, taking in a deep breath, he puffs out his cheeks and looks at his helmet. Hm. But soon Cole is running him over a new one, and Gal rises and gives him a grateful smack on the shoulder before Cole helps it on over his bandages and wishes him luck. He steps away from the healing station and begins the long trod toward Etienne. "Hey, uh. I won't knock you in the head if you don't knock me in the head," he laughs, trying to strike a deal.

<COMBAT> Gal has changed stance to Evade.

Étienne smiles crookedly, "See? Nothing to worry about." He casts a last winsome smile at the Peregreaux heir and sets his helmet on his head. He walks out swinging his arms to loosen them up, his steps almost steady. He gives Gal a crooked smile, "I don't think either of us can promise accuracy today."

<COMBAT> Etienne will spend luck on defense this turn.
<COMBAT> Etienne has changed stance to Normal.
<COMBAT> Etienne will attack Gal this turn. Options: called=chest
<COMBAT> Etienne attacks Gal with Broadsword but Gal DODGES!
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Etienne with Broadsword but Etienne DODGES!
<COMBAT> Etienne will spend luck on attack this turn.
<COMBAT> Etienne has changed stance to Banzai.
<COMBAT> Etienne will attack Gal this turn. Options: called=chest
<COMBAT> Etienne attacks Gal with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Abdomen (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Etienne with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Left Arm (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Etienne will attack Gal this turn. Options: called=chest
<COMBAT> Etienne attacks Gal with Broadsword but Gal DODGES!
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Etienne with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!

Étienne moves like he's dancing with Gal, almost like a mirror dance. They move and counter. The heir to Arguil trades a nasty slash to his arm for a solid blow to the guardsman's chest. More dancing and waving of swords. He takes a pouch to his chest without seeming to notice.

Gal is a little looser in formation than he was in the last round. He doesn't quite have that low taut posture, and when he thrusts for the first time, it may be he's still trying to determine which Etienne he is trying to strike. But a solid hit to his gut wakes him up, and his elbow rises to answer it with a slash up the inside of Etienne's left arm, as though it had learned that trick on its own. Muscle memory. Then he plants his off-foot behind him, shoving back and dipping in and tapping the armor again, becoming somewhat better co-ordinated and going back into his favored stance to invite a blow.

Symon nods at Gal, but he is perhaps still a bit tense. He keeps his eyes carefully on the field as the fighting begins.

<COMBAT> Etienne will attack Gal this turn. Options: called=chest
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Etienne with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Right Hand (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Etienne attacks Gal with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Etienne will attack Gal this turn. Options: called=chest
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Etienne with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Etienne attacks Gal with Broadsword but Gal DODGES!
<COMBAT> Etienne will attack Gal this turn.
<COMBAT> Etienne attacks Gal with Broadsword but Gal DODGES!
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Etienne with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Etienne has changed stance to Normal.

Étienne grunts and nearly loses his grip on his sword as Gal connects, but he manages to get another tap on where he hit before. His dancing is doing him little good as Gal keeps getting in under his guard as he swings.

Gal does that, doesn't he? Keeps low and on the defensive, waits for it, thrusts. No swinging blows, anymore. A parry caught that right hand on the way to land a blow to his chest in a move that might almost have seemed more of a punch than anything else. He harries his opponent, but doesn't seem to have a downing blow in him. Or else he just isn't using it, for fear of whacking the guy too hard in the head twice in so short a time. He had made his offer in jest, but is actually not looking to harm anyone today.

<COMBAT> Gal attacks Etienne with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Abdomen (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Etienne attacks Gal with Broadsword but Gal DODGES!
<COMBAT> Etienne attacks Gal with Broadsword but Gal DODGES!
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Etienne with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Etienne has changed stance to Banzai.
<COMBAT> Etienne attacks Gal with Broadsword - Serious wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Etienne with Broadsword - Light wound to Left Hand (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Etienne has been KO'd!

Yves, now with a goblet of wine and a bit of food to make up for spent energy, has been watching the fight between the guardsman and Etienne with the utmost interest. Watching as they fight on, he yells out in a senseless sort of huzzah and rises to his feet. As the battle comes to a close, he smiles broadly. Enthusiastic and clearly enjoying the great swordsmanship being displayed.

Étienne is visibly flagging under the onslaught of blows. He does manage to run right into Gal's sword while trying to smack his hand. He too, has been trying to avoid the other man's head, though he never promised. He crumbles and lies gasps and half conscious, two weak to rise.

Symon winces to see Etienne get struck each time. "He's down," he yells out. "Someone go to him!"

Promises are promises, but there's also basic decency. Look at these two stand-up guys, pulling their punches and staying away from the cranial region! It might not be as entertaining to the crowd as a knock-down drag-out, but there might be something to be said for them taking care of one another? Gal keeps his sword-tip low, harrying Etienne's abdomen and ribs with it, and when he comes in with that stunner blow he gets that grip just in place to shove against his hand. Then, with his opponent down, he sheathes his blade and stoops to get his shoulder underneath Etienne's arm, offering him an elevator ride to the land of the ambulatory, if he'll have it.

It us a lucky coincidence they are in Eisande, and so there are healers in adequate numbers there to attend to immediate injuries. Etienne will be carried over to a tent at the side where he will be checked for broken ribs and other injuries.

Meanwhile… the herald makes his announcement of the outcome, in his very own way. "In this bout, we saw Eisande triumph over Azzalle, and we congratulate Master Gal the guard and wish him luck in his next match against Lord Aidan Delaunay, which will commence after a brief break."

Étienne takes the hand and says between gasps, "You're very good, you know." He lets them carry him off. He gives a rather pathetic, "Sy?" as they start extracting him painfully from his armour.

"Aw, thanks, man. You, too!" Gal answers. Then, hey. A brief break. Three words that have never been quite so welcome to a Guardsman. He will yield right of tending to Etienne to the healers, then even go back to the ones who were dealing with his head earlier, in case they can freshen up his poultice, which kind of feels like it's melting down his face, in between. And so he can get some more water.

Antoine has been a bit to the behind to take care of some of the hits he took during his last fight, returning now to see the fights as they keep on going, he moves where he can continue watching for now.

Belmont, meanwhile has returned to watch the proceedings. Wincing slightly, as he saw Etienne go down. Spotting Antoine, he raises his goblet of watered wine, thoughtfully. After all, he might face Antoine later in the contest. To Aidan, the Eresse lord offers a cheerful, "Good luck. That Master Gal has more prowess than you might expect."

Symon is there quite promptly, rushing off to the healer tent and kneeling in his nice blue breeches beside Etienne to take his uninjured hand, pulling off the gauntlet to grasp it. "How b-bad?"

The break seems to be over. As both contestants make their way to the duelling grounds in the tourney field, there is another cheer that rises in the crowd. The sort of cheer valiant fighters are bound to receive. "And now. The match between Lord Aidan Delaunay and Master Gal of the guard.", the herald announces.

Gal takes a few more deep breaths even when called, then puts his helmet back on over his newly applied head-wrap, looking briefly at the bent one still sitting there next to him and then rising and putting his hand on the grip of his sword, drawing it slowly as he walks forward again to meet Lord Delaunay with an upward tip of the point by way of salute. "Hi," he says, instead of anything deep or intimidating or. Anything.

Étienne clings to the hand and gasps, "Not as bad as last time I think." He closes his eyes, "It'll be better with the breasplate off. Sweet…" He takes a breath, "It meant a lot that you came."

Aidan steps out into the ring when it's his time to fight again and offers Gal a quick salute, "Hello there. Good luck in this bout and may the best win."

Gal returns the wish for luck with a smile and a short-bobbled nod, then he turns his off-shoulder back and readies his blade ahead of him.

<COMBAT> Gal attacks Aidan with Broadsword but Aidan DODGES!
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Gal with Broadsword - Serious wound to Abdomen (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Gal with Broadsword but Gal DODGES!
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Aidan with Broadsword and MISSES!
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Left Hand (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Gal with Broadsword - ARMOR on Right Hand stops the attack!

"Yes, I w…wouldn't miss it," Symon says, but he can't hide his worry at this point. "W…we'll p-put you to b-bed as soon as w-we can."

Étienne lifts his hand to kiss it, inhibitions lowered by pain and the concussion from earlier. "Yu take suchgood care of me."

Aidan moves to enter the duel with Gal then he dodges left as Gal attacks jabbing his sword into Gal's abdomen. A few more parry and dodges before he takes a hit to his hand and blinks some at the jarring pain, "Well struck."

Antoine watches in quiet for now, frowning momentarily as he keeps his attention on the match.

"It's all right," Symon says. "W…we'll p-put you in a carriage. B-but you can rest a w-while here."

Gal just about doubles at that first thrust into his stomach. Getting a little bit of it back from having kept bothering Etienne that way, maybe. He hisses and puffs out his cheeks, holding his breath as his abdominal muscles find their correct homes again, managing, at least, to jump aside of the next blow, then raise up the armor on his outer arm to parry a blow aimed toward his hand, then slicing sideways toward Aidan's other hand, in turn. Still winded from the gut blow, he takes the opportunity to jump back and catch his breath and come into formation again.

<COMBAT> Gal will spend luck on Defense this turn.

Étienne closes his eyes and lets the healers do their work. He does his best not to show how bad it hurts, like he's been doing all day. He holds that hand like a sailor holds a rescue line.

There is some giggling that can be heard, where Justine tries to charm her way into André's tent. "But… Monsieur. A favor. Perhaps he'd want a favor. With my favor around his arm, he can be victorious, perhaps? That is, if his highness is willing to accept… Ah… could you ask him?" She looks slightly surprised that the Flatlander guard is able to resist her persuasive ways, but then again… Flatlanders. They are a different breed of people altogether.

<COMBAT> Gal attacks Aidan with Broadsword but Aidan DODGES!
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Gal with Broadsword but Gal DODGES!
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Gal with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Aidan with Broadsword and MISSES!
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Serious wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Gal with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Aidan with Broadsword - ARMOR on Abdomen stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Gal with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Aidan with Broadsword but Aidan DODGES!
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Gal with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Gal with Broadsword - Light wound to Abdomen (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Aidan with Broadsword and MISSES!
<COMBAT> Gal has been KO'd!
<COMBAT> Gal spends a luck point to keep fighting!

Aidan grunts as the fight just continues and continues both of them taking a beating. He presses the attack as they both just take a beating. He steps back for a second when he thinks Gal has had enough but when the man comes back up he steps back forward to begin the next bout of fighting.

Gal is no doctor, but is fairly sure something cracked with that hard hit to his chest, and it's radiating the worst sorts of pain straight around to his back. For a minute it actually focuses him, something that hurts worse than his head taking away from the throbbing there, but when he's hit again in the same place it's all he can do to stay aloft, and a thrust to his stomach sends him to a knee, but he closes his eyes and tries to decide if there's anything left in him— and evidently he finds something, because he's up again, breathing raggedly, but bringing his blade parallel to his body as he leans into it, nodding his head.

<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Gal with Broadsword - Light wound to Left Hand (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Gal attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Gal has been KO'd!

Aidan continues into the fight although another hit to Gal's hand with a solid thunk to his own chest seems to be what ends the fight and the Delaunay steps back offering a salute to Gal, "Well fought."

Oh, yeah, there it goes, that last little bit he had left to leave on the field. Now Gal has officially left it all there, and he is just gonna kneel here for a second longer before offering up a hand, if his opponent will help him up, and, breathless, "Oh, man, you, too," he pants.

"Lord Aidan Delaunay defeats Master Gal the guard in an impressive match! And so… Lord Aidan is to face Lord Antoine de Valais next." The herald makes his announcement right into the cheering of the crowd that seems very much pleased with the spectacle.

Antoine applauds as he sees that solid fight, until he hears his own name called again. Moving forward to get into position, he nod to Aidan, studying the man rather carefully for a few moments longer. "May the best man win," he offers to the Delaunay lord.

Aidan barely has time to get a breath and a drink of water when he's going back out to the dueling grounds and offers his opponent a quick salute, "Lets have a good fight m'lord."

<COMBAT> Antoine attacks Aidan with Broadsword but Aidan DODGES!
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Antoine with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Left Arm (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Antoine attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Antoine with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Antoine with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Left Hand (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Antoine attacks Aidan with Broadsword but Aidan DODGES!
<COMBAT> Antoine has been KO'd!
<COMBAT> Antoine spends a luck point to keep fighting!

Trying to attack rather forcefully, Antoine's tactic doesn't seem to work well, since he takes the worst hits this time. Driven back, he takes a few moments to gather himself before he moves towards his opponent again.

Aidan pushes into the fight right off the start and pushes Antoine back a bit. Then he steps to the side jabbing his sword in what seems to be his favorite target on his opponents… Their left hand.

<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Antoine with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Antoine attacks Aidan with Broadsword but Aidan DODGES!
<COMBAT> Antoine attacks Aidan with Broadsword but Aidan DODGES!
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Antoine with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Left Arm (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Antoine attacks Aidan with Broadsword but Aidan DODGES!
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Antoine with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Antoine has been KO'd!

And for the second fight today, Antoine just doesn't seem to manage to hit his opponent. "Stand still…" he mutters, staggering from each blow he receives, until he finally sinks to the ground, first to his knees, then falling backwards. "Well struck, Lord Aidan," he offers, staying down for a few long moments to recover a bit.

Aidan pushes back into the fight after Antoine almost goes. When the man finally goes to his knees and then falling onto his back Aidan thrusts his sword into the ground and steps over to the man, "Well fought m'lord." He reaches over to offer a hand to help Antoine up.

"Lord Aidan proceeds to the next round," the herald declares. "Lord Antoine de Valais has been a worthy opponent, but he is out of the contest. The next match… will be Lady Valerie Cherevin against Prince André van Westerlo of the Flatlands."

Antoine waits a moment or two, before he takes the offered hand. "Thanks," he replies, getting to his feet again.

Andre had taken a longer break to recover from the fairly intense fight with Ezio. Finally he's being called again, this time to face a lady opponent. The Prince of the Flatlands offers Valerie a courteous bow and a smile.

Standing near the dueling rings, Yves has finished his brief meal and the goblet of wine, and is now watching over the loser's bracket run. Keenly interested in the swordplay which always seem to make him smile in good cheer. Enjoying the interplay, the art of the sword. "Let's see a good match," he calls out.

Valerie is once again called in to compete, the lady stides onto the field calmly and with purpose in her eyes. The truly observant might notice an addition to her attire, a ribbon of d'Ailgemort colors wrapped tightly around her dainty wrist and carefully secured. She gazes at Andre calmly her amber eyes respectful and calculating as they watch him. She salutes him as is proper offering a faint smile in return, but no words. Sipping into her fighting stance she focuses, readying herself.

<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Andre with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Abdomen (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Andre attacks Valerie with Broadsword and MISSES!

Thankfully, Ezio has recovered from his horrific loss to Yves, though many could argue that the Vicomte was quite exhausted from his fight with Belmont, he lost instantly all the same. He now stands near his banner as he watches the loser's bracket continue on, his eyes focused on Valerie (specifically) and Andre, humming softly.

<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Andre with Broadsword - Critical wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Andre attacks Valerie with Broadsword and MISSES!
<COMBAT> Andre has been KO'd!

Having changed out of his armor after his loss against Aidan, Antoine returns to watch the last fights now, humming a bit to himself as he finds himself a place among the crowd.

Clearly the Flatlander wasn't yet recovered fully. Or the lady's foreign style is confusing him. But he is hit twice in quick succession without even getting a blow in. Ow. He is down on his knee again, clutching his chest. He lifts a hand to offer his surrender to Valerie. "Well done, Mylady… you've beaten me fair and square."

Valerie is quick, moving with grace like a viper striking. She manages to knock her opponent down rather easily. Still she is kind enough to offer him a hand up. "Thank you for the match Your Highness, you did well." She offers him a faint smile and bows her head respectfully as she moves to await the next match.

Andre manages a weak smile for Valerie, grateful for her white lie and stumbles off to go find a healer.

"And so," the herald sums up with his voice that carries well over the tournament field, "cheer for Lady Valerie Cherevin who has defeated our guest from the Flatlands, Prince André van Westerlo! And now it will be two ladies facing each other in our next bout: Lady Isolde d'Eltoine will compete against Lady Valerie Cherevin!"

Valerie doesn't have much time to rest as her name is called once more. Steeling herself she renters the ring and regards Isolde with respect. "Best of luck you my Lady, may we both fight with skill." She bows her head slightly and readies her blade. There is a determined gleam in her eyes, a look of extreme focus in them.

Isolde strides into the ring eagerly. She stares down Valerie and actually smiles at the woman. "Its an honor to meet another lady with skills in using a blade. Lets show the men how its done yes?" She cracks a grin and gets herself ready to fight.

<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Isolde with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Valerie with Broadsword but Valerie DODGES!
<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Isolde with Broadsword and MISSES!
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Valerie with Broadsword - Light wound to Head (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Isolde with Broadsword - Serious wound to Abdomen (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Valerie with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).

Standing outside of the dueling ring, Yves watches as the ladies begin their duel. The quick exchange at the beginning, the touch and dodge each offers, and then finally the joint shared hits to the torso all causing him to watch with the utmost fascination. His light eyes tracing every movement, "Well struck!" he yells out at that latest exchange.

Ezio hums a moment as he watches this exchange between the two women and he calls out. "Wait for your oppurtunity!" To whom that was for, no one knows. But he seems to be enjoying himself all the same.

Once again Valerie is focused and quick, darting in with swift strikes that are likely not as powerful as some but are more ment to disable and disarm than anything else. She takes a swipe to her head and another to her already sore chest but she does not give in. She swipe her blade at isolde's abomen as hard as she can and then dances back to catch her breath a bit. Her gaze is focused and determined as she hangs back a moment, circling slowly and waiting for an opening to strike Isolde again.

Isolde is the opposite of Valerie in style. Much larger, much stronger and not as quick. More like a charging bull than a striking snake. For all her strength though Isolde struggles a bit with Valerie's quickness. The other woman managing to wear her down a bit even with Isolde landing a few good hits of her own.

Antoine leans forward a bit in his seat as he watches, expression a bit thoughtful.

<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Isolde with Broadsword - Light wound to Left Leg (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Valerie with Broadsword - Critical wound to Head (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Valerie with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Isolde with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Abdomen (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Valerie has been KO'd!
<COMBAT> Valerie spends a luck point to keep fighting!
<COMBAT> Valerie will attack Isolde this turn.
<COMBAT> Isolde will attack Valerie this turn.
<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Isolde with Broadsword - Critical wound to Head (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Valerie with Broadsword - Light wound to Right Arm (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Isolde has been KO'd!
<COMBAT> Valerie has been KO'd!

There is a moment when Isolde thinks she might have won this, her blade having wacked Valerie soundly upside the head. She frowns and quietly wonders if there is a pattern to her attacks today….but then Valerie is coming back at her and she is going down like a sack of flour. The blow to the head was returned full force and her ears are ringing as she falls into the dirt. She starts laughing merrily. "That…was…amazing." She sounds breathless and a bit hysterical but amusment dances in her eyes as she peers up dizzy and disoriented. "I deserved that." She declares with another soft laugh.

There is quite the ruckus in the crowd, when both female fighters go down. The herald walks over to the duchesse, for a discussion at low volume. He waves then for the healers. "One more go. The next hit will decide the bout!", he finally announces.

Valerie is knock hard enough by Isolde's blade that her world is spinning. But she grips her blade with a determined gaze, staggers to her feet and gives another swing, not quite ready to give in yet. That swift strike hits Isolde upside the head in return and her arm takes a blow that has her wincing and almost dropping her sword. She staggers back, reeling and breathing hard but determined to stand her ground.

Antoine watches when both go down, then his gaze follows the herald. Nodding a bit at the announcement. "Fair…" he says to himself as he takes a sip from something to drink, watching the fight again now.

Isolde gets back up waving off the healer fussing over her with a grin. "You can stitch me up when I'm done here." She declares to the healer as she picks up her sword. Regarding Valerie with even more respect she salutes the woman before preparing to charge in for a final attack.

<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Isolde with Broadsword but Isolde DODGES!
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Valerie with Broadsword but Valerie DODGES!
<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Isolde with Broadsword but Isolde DODGES!
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Valerie with Broadsword but Valerie DODGES!
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Valerie with Broadsword but Valerie DODGES!
<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Isolde with Broadsword but Isolde DODGES!
<COMBAT> Isolde attacks Valerie with Broadsword but Valerie DODGES!
<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Isolde with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).

Valerie does her best to avoid getting hit now, dodging and weaving gracefully dispite her spinning vision. She cannot hit Isolde at first but soon she she regains enough of her wits to land a strike and evade at the same time. It is not the hardest strike, but its noticable and she backs off a bit after that dancing back and catching her breath.

Isolde takes a final hit to her chest and smiles at Valerie, honoring the herald's decision and lowering her blade. "You win this. Go as far as you can yes? Show the men how a woman can fight." She winks and limps off to get her injuries seen to.

Standing off to the side, Yves watches as the two women circle each other, both dodging each other's attacks so adeptly. The final touch to the chest isn't quite as decisive as their earlier more decisive strikes, but seeing as how they're both still moving of their own power, it's not so bad. "Well fought!" he yells out.

The battle is intense and Ezio is loving every minute of it. When the bout reaches its climax, he rises to his feet and claps for the fighters. "Well done! A well-fought victory." He nods approvingly.

Similarily, Antoine gets to his feet and applauds for the two. "Well fought!"

"Now… after this deciding exchange of blows, it will be Lady Valerie Cherevin who will proceed and face Lord Belmont d'Eresse in the next bout," the herald announces.

Valerie takes a moment to catch her breath and then reenters the ring as she is called forward again. She looks a bit dazed but her willpower and determination keeps her standing and moving. She salutes Belmont respectfully her expression fairly well composed for someone who was struck upside the head not too long ago. "Best of luck, my Lord." She offers him before getting in position.

Ezio looks slightly worried for Valerie, knowing full well that Belmont is a beast of a warrior. He looks in Valerie's direction, and if she looks at him in return, he nods to her. Belief, perhaps, or just approval that she's made it this far.

Belmont had watched, and that special arrangement to decide the winner in the fight where both had gone down had taken him by surprise. But who is to doubt the judgement of a duchesse. He at least knew that sooner or later, he'd be called out to the field again to fight whomever would emerge victorious from the fight. As the crowd is cheering for the great show, he remains focused and moves into the field to resume his place, raising his blade in salute to the Kusheline woman. "My lady."

Valerie does indeed catch that gaze from Ezio. She smiles for him, faint yet grateful and sincere and she lets her amber eyes lock with his a moment before she is focusing on her opponent fully with even more focus now.

<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Belmont with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Valerie with Broadsword - Light wound to Left Arm (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Valerie with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Belmont with Broadsword but Belmont DODGES!
<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Belmont with Broadsword but Belmont DODGES!
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Valerie with Broadsword but Valerie DODGES!

Valerie cannot seem to land a good hit on Belmont at first. She tries but he is fast and manages to hit her twice before she manages to dodge one of his blows. Amber eyes narrow subtly in concentration. She pushes the pain in her head and chest down, focusing through the aches and pains in her small body with the determination to do her very best here. She moves a bit slower than she had before, using calculated precision to try and find weak points in his defense.

Belmont goes for a lighter tactic this time, less hard blows but more in a way gauging Valerie and her agility by subjecting her to a series of strikes from differing angles. She proves pretty agile, but still, he manages light hits to her arm and to her chest, as he keeps his feet moving in a dance, half-circling her. His alertness is by no means diminished by his minor successes, as he knows that it will take far more to decide the bout in his favor.

<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Belmont with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Valerie with Broadsword but Valerie DODGES!
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Valerie with Broadsword - Light wound to Neck (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Belmont with Broadsword but Belmont DODGES!
<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Belmont with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Valerie with Broadsword - Light wound to Abdomen.

Standing off to the side, Yves watches as the Belmont and Valerie begin their duel. Light exchanges being the dominant strikes, with a great deal of good footwork. "Excellent footwork," he calls out encouragingly, seeing as how that seems to be, to his eye, how they are avoiding the majority of the damage in this fight.

Valerie circles Belmont a bit, feeling out his defense and finally manages to land a hit. She takes two more light strikes and then backs off a bit refocusing before coming back in with a slightly more aggressive stance. She attempts to move a bit faster now, probing at Belmont's defense again and with more speed now.

<COMBAT> Valerie has changed stance to banzai.

"You are pretty quick," Belmont tells Valerie, as he tries to evade her next blow, but this time her blade connects with the maile armor on his chest, adding another bruise to the many he already has received today. But there he whirls around, using the momentum of his next move as he dodges her blow to land a strike of his own. Another light one. Is it because she is a woman? He hasn't fought against any other females in this contest, so maybe the fact that he does now maybe makes him try to go easier on her? A second time he strikes her, lightly, and then assesses the damage, as he makes sure to dance out of her reach, before he launches his next attack.

<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Belmont with Broadsword but Belmont DODGES!
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Valerie with Broadsword - Light wound to Left Arm (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Valerie attacks Belmont with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Valerie with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Valerie has been KO'd!

Valerie trades another few blows before a hit to the chest has her staggering backwards gasping for breath. She lifts her hands. "I yield. You win Lord Belmont. Well done." She favors him with a faint smile before trying to straighten, not managing to hide her pained wince completely as she moves off the field. Her pride refuses to let her show anything but grace and composure even though its plain she is in a good deal of pain. She moves towards the nearest healers tent managing to keep her composure firmly in place until she is out of sight.

It seems his dance is picking up in speed, when movements become a matter of martial instinct rather than intention. Belmont ducks away beneath another of Valerie's strikes, only to land another hit to her left arm. Her next strike gets him at the chest though, and it may be lucky for him, that it doesn't strike harder than it does, or he would have staggered back. But as it is, he holds his ground, landing his own strike with more force now, against the side of her chest. It seems to suffice to make her yield. "My lady. You were a worthy opponent.", he tells her as he moves forward to steady her but then remains standing as she is seeking to get off the field, towards the healers.

"It is decided. Lord Belmont d'Eresse is the winner of this match and will face Lord Aidan Delaunay next," the herald announces to the crowd that seems already well aware of the proceedings.

Applauding for Valerie and Belmont, Yves offers her a cheerful, "You have excellent footwork, my lady, well fought," he is now a fan, given her great bout with Isolde.

Aidan stretches a bit as he heads out to the dueling arena. He offers a quick salute of his blade to Belmont and then settles into a fighting stance as he waits for the signal to begin the fight.

"Lord Aidan Delaunay," Belmont greets, lifting his sword in salute. If his arm just didn't ache like it does. But the baron of Beaucare cannot deny the bouts he has already been through, and the painful reminders of each hidden away beneath his maile armor.

<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Belmont with Broadsword but Belmont DODGES!
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Aidan with Broadsword - ARMOR on Neck stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Belmont with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Head (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Aidan with Broadsword but Aidan DODGES!
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Belmont with Broadsword - Light wound to Left Arm (Reduced by Armor).

Aidan steps forward into the fight when the bout begins his armor taking the brunt of the initial assault but he manages to bring his blade around for a critical hit to the air where Belmont once stood. Then coming back in he feints left and lands a solid hit to Belmont's head. Then he just doesn't see the counter attack coming in taking a solid hit to his chest but he manages to hit that left side again always the left side.

Things are going quicker now, with each match that has been finished, opponents changing with each, forcing Belmont to quickly assess the other fighter and adapt to their tactics. With Aidan, there is certainly a change as strikes are carried out with definitely more force. Belmont's sword manages to hit Aidan's chest, but the blade merely skitters along the armor, not really managing to cause any damage at all. Whereas Adain's next strike hits mercilessly, catching Belmont's half-helmet at the back and sending his head ringing from the impact. AS lights are starting to dance before his eyes, Belmont's sword arm reacts instinctively, striking out against Aidan's chest in a wild counterattack. Yes the left side, but that must have been coincidence.

<COMBAT> Belmont has changed stance to banzai.
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Aidan with Broadsword but Aidan DODGES!
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Belmont with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Light wound to Left Hand (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Belmont with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Belmont attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Neck (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Belmont with Broadsword but Belmont DODGES!
<COMBAT> Aidan has been KO'd!
<COMBAT> Aidan spends a luck point to keep fighting!
<COMBAT> Aidan will attack Belmont this turn.
<COMBAT> Belmont will attack Aidan this turn.
<COMBAT> Belmont has changed stance to Normal.

Aidan continues with his pushing Belmont with a standard stance it seems to have served him well in the earlier bouts. But then Belmont goes on the offensive and Aidan's just not able to keep up with it taking a few hits and ending up dropping to a knee. But Aidan's too stubborn to give up just yet and pushes himself back up to his feet, "Well struck m'lord."

On they go, and Belmont can feel the fatigue from the previous match creeping up his limbs. He is usually much faster than this, and is saved by his armor from Aidan's next attack, not only once but twice. Then the Eresse lord seems to fall back to old habits, nicking lightly Aidan's left hand, and then turns the blade for an upwards strike he then turns into a swing for that vulnerable area between shoulder and neck. Evading Adain's blade brings a few feet distance between them, when Aidan falls down to a knee, and for a moment some people may wonder whether this marks the end of their bout. Belmont exhales when Aidan moves to stand, and he gives the other lord a nod of acknowledgement for his prowess. "But you aren't beaten yet," he says, and takes this as inspiration to consider his next moves. Soon to be followed by actions, no doubt.

Yves leaps at the turnabout as Aidan rallies and launches a renewed series of attacks at Belmont, letting out a great, "Excellent!" from his spot beside the dueling ring. Ever showing his enthusiasm for the exchange of sword techniques. Occasionally, he even seems to shift his body slightly, like he's imagining being in someone's shoes, how he might respond by swinging his sword, or how he might try to twist out of the way.

Aidan grunts as he pushes into the attack getting all sorts of I'm a prancing goat going as he just steps out of the way of Belmont's attacks. He manages to hit the man a couple of times taking a light hit to the chest in return.

Ezio watches the fight with anticipation as he leans forward and at the edge of his seat the entire time. At the dramatic finish, Ezio is one of the many who rise to their feet in applause at the display of skill and fortitude.

Belmont has singled out a particular spot for his next attack, but Aidan somehow sees the blow coming and steps aside, so the blade merely cuts through air. But then the other comes, unexpected, from the side and Belmont cries out when the dulled tourney blade strikes at his left arm, sending it screaming with agony. Then they are back to that dance of striking and dodging, followed by light hits, and Aidan's blade lands on his sword arm, causing the weapon to drop from Belmont's hand. "You are winning this bout," he realizes, lowering his eyes to consider his own sword on the ground, and the reflections caused on the steel by the late afternoon sun. "Congratulations, Lord Aidan.", he tells the Delaunay, lifting his gaze again with a crooked smile. "I shall remember this fight in particular, for the next days to come, I fear." The bruises at least will be not so subtle reminders.

"Lord Aidan Delaunay will now face Lord Ezio d'Aiglemort. It's Eisande against Camlach!", the herald roars into the wild cheering of the crowd.

Aidan goes and gets a quick drink of water and splashes some over his head before he goes back out to the dueling ring offering his opponent a salute as the match gets ready to begin again.

On which note, and on a day when Camlach has fielded some of its best and brightest against the local nobility— the commons swiftly begins to chant the name of Lord Aidan Delaunay, the last Eisandine lord remaining in the competition.

Ezio moves into the field as he is called, drawing his curved blade once more as he looks across the field at Aiden. Good news is, the bleeding to his head has stopped from the last time he fought…but this was going to be a difficult challenge. He saluted his opponent and is now ready to begin, entering a stance.

In a corner of the canopied stands set up for the comfort of noble spectators — well into the shade, a goodly distance from the ducal box and yet with a better than average view of the ring — there slouches at her ease an older woman with short, shaggy, white-streaked blonde hair, who has seldom been absent all day, and seldom allowed her attention to drift long from the contest of arms taking place close below her. Casual acquaintances, of which she hasn't many present, have had their heads bitten off for distracting her or occluding her line of sight. She has one booted foot propped up against the next layer of seating below her own, a rapier in a plain scabbard belted at her left hip, and a sardonic smile trained upon winners and losers alike. Her name is Athénaïs de Belfours, and she's just waiting to see who wins the privilege of coming second to Yves Valliers.

<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Light wound to Right Hand (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Ezio with Broadsword - ARMOR on Abdomen stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Ezio with Broadsword but Ezio DODGES!
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Critical wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Ezio with Broadsword but Ezio DODGES!
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).

Ezio walked into this fight with a mission - a mission he fully intends to accomplish: defeat Aidan. So he's focused, perhaps more focused than he had been in this entire tournament as he bobs and weaves between Aidan's strikes like he predicted them. Though Aiden does manage to strike at his abdomen, his armor protects him. In return, Ezio strikes Aiden at the hand, a grazing blow, but he strikes him with not one, but two clean slices to the chest for grievous effect. He lets Aidan catch his breath and get his distance, but it?s clear Ezio wants to win.

Watching the match between Ezio and Aidan, Yves is as attentive as ever. This match will decide who faces him in the final. Excellent swordsmen both, so there isn't really a lot ot pick apart about how they fight. He just enjoys the swordplay, and calls forth a few words of encouragement. The lopsided hits so far are not looking great for Lord Aidan, but he's hanging in there.

Yes, it does require one Scion of Camael to take out another so efficiently. And yet, three of them remain… Athénaïs watches through narrowed blue-grey eyes. For Yves this match decides his opponent: for her, it determines the chances of his victory, upon which she has placed an immodest bet, at odds based upon his performance last year and thus from her point of view irritatingly short.

Valerie returns from the healers tent and moves towards the edge of the ring with grace. The lady has removed her armor now and wears only a tunic, breeches and boots. Head held high she glides over to watch Ezio face his opponent. She cannot help the faint smile that graces her lips and will clap politely for him as she watches.

Aidan grunts as he takes a rapid beating Ezio sparing him nothing in this exchange and the exchanges seem to be wearing on the Delaunay. He's not done yet at least not mentally but perhaps physically he's not going to recover from this first exchange of blades.

<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Serious wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Aidan with Broadsword - Serious wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Aidan attacks Ezio with Broadsword and MISSES!
<COMBAT> Aidan has been KO'd!

Antoine continues watching in quiet, shaking his head a little as he does. "Looks like someones not playing anymore," he remarks, taking another sip of drink. His gaze goes to the other eliminated participants too, studying them a bit carefully.

Aidan may have not wanted to be done but Ezio ensured that he was. After repeated blows to his chest the Delaunay drops to one knee and holds up his hand, "I Yield again. At least I'm being beaten by you m'lord. Go win this."

Ezio is swift with the finish, though he is struck to the chest by Aidan's sudden blow (and last gasp) of defiance, Ezio retaliates with two slashes (that will form an x-mark on Aidan's chestpiece) that cut pretty deep, and with that…the battle is over, before he takes a breath. "I will certainly try. The last time I faced that beast in a boy's clothes, I lost pretty handedly. But I will try my best for the both of us." He helps Aidan up to his feet….before his attention shifts to the one he must surpass.

And the flower of Eisande has been trod into the mud by Camaeline might! Trumpets gleam in the late afternoon sun as their players struggle to be heard over the various roars of the crowd: disappointment in the loss of their native son warring with the sheer delight of seeing a contest so well-fought. Through the din the trained voice of the herald rings out. "Lord Ezio d'Aiglemort of Camlach is victorious! He will now face Lord Yves Valliers, also of Camlach!"

Moving out onto the dueling pitch when his name is called, Yves takes up the practice sword again and swats at the bottoms of his boots with it a few times as he walks. Swinging it around a bit as he advances out and twists himself a few times from side to side. Setting his helmet down temporarily, he uses his shoulder to push back on his hair and stares up at the sky for a moment. "Excellent round against Lord Delaunay, Lord Ezio," he compliments and then re-seats his helmet. Taking up a neutral guard stance for their match.

<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Left Arm (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Light wound to Right Leg (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Head (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword and MISSES!
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword but Yves DODGES!

Valerie bites her lip as Ezio advances to the final round. She claps with enthusiasm now. And if he happens to look her way she will flash him a bright encouraging smile. She watches the match with alert amber eyes her interest completely captured.

As the match begins, Yves isn't putting up his best, but he doesn't miss all of his attacks, and that's something. He has two rounds and only needs to win once, so he tries to keep his spirits up. He smiles all the while, enjoying the fencing, taking the rattling blows with good natured cheer. "Well struck," he compliments.

Fighting with a significantly greater focus than before, Ezio duels Yves and, for at least this brief moment, appears to have the upper hand. He strikes Yves on the head and on the left arm with well-placed cuts to try and knock off guard or off-balance, though it doesn't serve him -too- well considering he does get struck in the leg when he's too slow on the dodge. However, both fighters seem to miss their final strikes against each other through dodges or just misses. "Likewise." Ezio knows that even though it was just a strike to the leg…if you take out the legs, it becomes significantly more difficult to fight back.

<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword but Ezio DODGES!
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword but Yves DODGES!
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Abdomen (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Light wound to Left Arm (Reduced by Armor).

Skill matched against skill, Camaeline scion against Camaeline scion— and ducats enough are riding on it that Athénaïs actually puts down her foot and sits up, leaning subtly forward with each bold but inconclusive strike, as these well-matched foes come together again and again, each seemingly invincible.

The fencing continues between them, Yves offering a few dodges while taking a hit to the chest he returns one, but doesn't seem to be getting ahead in his attacks. Certainly behind in the collective pain inflicted in this particular duel. Focusing on his footwork, he tries to put a little more effort into keeping moving. Not wanting to get bogged down by Ezio's offense.

The battle becomes intense as intense can get, with Ezio and Yves trading blows like no tomorrow. In fact, with Ezio even lasting this long is a miracle in and of itself against this monster of a fighter across from him. He takes a solid hit to the chest, but he repays it with a strike to the abdomen. Sure enough, they seem very neck and neck and it can most certainly go either way. Ezio takes a deep breath as he focuses on his enemy. He pants, and he breathes, his breathing becomes slower as he enters a Kensei-kind of stance. Sword held behind him as it rested on his arm, strong foot back, weak leg forward. His flashing. He knows this next pass may very well decide the battle, so he's going to give it his best, or fail trying.

<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword but Ezio DODGES!
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword and MISSES!
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Neck (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Light wound to Right Hand (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Yves has been KO'd!
<COMBAT> Yves spends a luck point to keep fighting!

The series of hits is enough to temporarily wind Yves, but he musters the energy to keep fighting. The exchange continuing in earnest as the two throw blows at each other, leaving minor bruises aplenty. Straightening his spine for the continued duel, he watches Ezio and tries to get his head back into this round. Not to think about the idea that he has another whole round he could win. That's not where his mind needs to be right now. But on the moment.

<COMBAT> Yves has changed stance to banzai.

Ezio seems to trade blows and comes dangerously close to being defeated, but perhaps an extremely lucky blow that catches Yves directly in the chest once again with a twirling slash. His neck is definitely feeling the pain, because Yves hits like a brick wall, but he stays in the fight. He retains the same stance, though its clear he's nearing his limit. If he's going to close out this fight, he needs to do it like yesterday.

He won't allow himself to hope. thats foolish, but he will allow himself to persevere and fight until he can't. This next round…will decide. Or so Ezio feels.

Antoine whistles as he watches the fight, unable to hold back a bit of a grin. Right now, after the two rounds of solid beatings he took, it's better to watch a fight such as this.

<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Serious wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword and MISSES!
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Yves has been KO'd!

After another good exchange, Yves finds himself struck soundly yet again. Holding up a hand as he is winded again, Yves signals a halt and retreats back to catch his breath. "This round is yours, Lord d'Aigelmort," he says as he pauses for a second to recover his breath. Taking a breather to drink a little water, he spends some time stretching and rubbing at his chest, getting himself back into form for the next duel.

When Yves yields the round to his countryman and steps back, now in pursuit only of his own breath, Athénaïs sits sharply back again and plants so firm a boot against the bench in front of her that it shudders all the way along. Several unlucky souls seated upon it glance backward, get a look at her face as she gazes brooding down upon the ring, and think better of lodging complaints.

Ezio actually stumbled just a moment as he fights off Yves and claims the round, a small smirk as the call for a halt is given and Ezio happily retreats to give Yves his space. They have a breather for water, but now was the 'sudden death' of the tourney…whoever wins this battle, wins it all. Though Ezio is uncertain if he can win, he seems to be doing very well so far. He knows he can beat him, now he just has to follow through. "I feel as if I am getting sluggish, young Lord Villiers. Though let us do both of our Houses proud, yes?" He smirks, before he enters a stance again, fully prepared to renew the battle! Though no doubt the crowd is on the edge of insanity from how close the last bout was.

<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword but Yves DODGES!
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword but Yves DODGES!
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword but Ezio DODGES!
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).

The new round begins and Yves and Ezio seem to be trading light prods at each other's chests. Perhaps testing each other's defenses. The look on the young Valliers' face is one of focus, but with a large grin, enjoying himself even with the bruises. He enjoys this far too much. His footwork working slightly to his favor for the moment.

The footwork is one of the best in the land, or so it would appear if this tournament can say anything about it. Ezio and Yves prod each other to test the defenses, see where they were weak, see whee it was strong. Ezio seems to go back to the usual motive after he strikes Yves in the chest, before he gets his distance, a small smile on his face as well. Though if this were a battlefield and blood was everywhere, Ezio would probably be laughing like a madman. But he wants this win. Either for himself, or for another. He ensures the favor around his wrist is tightened before he rengages te other lord.

<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword but Ezio DODGES!
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword and MISSES!
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword - Light wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Yves has changed stance to banzai.

Headshaking at himself just slightly, Yves doesn't seem to be getting any good solid hits on Ezio in the most recent exchange, but that doesn't slow him down in the slightest. He just keeps pushing the attack. Backing off just a step to loosen his wrist just a touch before leaning into a new flurry.

Ezio takes a breath as, thanks to a deep focus, Ezio seems to really be racking up the hits on Yves, dodging out of the way of Yves attacks or moving just enough so that his blade only catches armor instead of skin or bone. However, Ezio knows better than most that when yo ufight Yves…one blow can change the entire tide of the battle. He takes a deep breath, and he nods at the fellow when he's ready, but he'll meet him in the middle, fighting as animals do.

Antoine grins as he watches. "Interesting fight," he comments to whoever is near enough to hear what's being said.

<COMBAT> Yves will spend luck on Attack this turn.
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword - ARMOR on Chest stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword - ARMOR on Abdomen stops the attack!
<COMBAT> Yves attacks Ezio with Broadsword - Serious wound to Chest (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio attacks Yves with Broadsword - Moderate wound to Left Hand (Reduced by Armor).
<COMBAT> Ezio has been KO'd!

In the next exchange, the two manage only to brush each other's armor in the first offering. In the second however, Yves' aggressive stance and strength are sufficient to allow him to leap forward and drive the tip of his blunted sword into Ezio's solar plexus and diaphragm. He leaps back immediately afterward, sword coming up en garde, but it proves unnecessary as that manages to finish out the fight. Flourishing the blade once, he rolls it into his palm and underhand throws it to an attendant who catches it adroitly. "Well fought, Lord d'Aiglemort, I hadn't had a chance to meet you since you arrived, I assume you know my sister in law Jacqueline quite well," he says and offers the man a hand to shake. Clearly quite enthusiastic, regardless of the outcome, he probably would have acted much the same way. A smile on his face. Peeling off his helm, he tosses it to the same attendant once he has his attention. Wiping at his sweaty brow, he beams around at the crowd, his youthful face full of good cheer.

The pair fight to an absolute standstill for a brief moment, but then suddenly the sword comes into his chest, a direct attack into his sternum just as Ezio's blade strikes Yves's left hand with a brutal strike, but alas….Ezio is knocked down and he stays down. A long day of brutal fighting finally catching up with him. He lies there for a moment before he slowly starts to sit up, sighing a moment as Yves relishes in his victory. He sits there a moment before Yves offers him a hand up, which Ezio accepts as he makes it back to his feet. "A good blow that was well struck." He then leaves the field without another word, letting the young man bask in the glory.

And lo! The trumpets ring out to honour this long and tumultuous display of the Camaeline virtues of strength, fortitude, and valour; and the herald proclaims Lord Yves Valliers the supreme victor of these springtime duels, to the delight of crowds who remember well their first sight of his youthful prowess during last year's Days of the Companions, and who are again pleased to laud him to the skies.

The spectators begin to scatter — the nobles to pay final courtesies to the duchesse d'Eisande in her box, or to join defeated friends and relations in their gaudy silk pavilions — the commons to find something to drink and somewhere to put their feet up, after standing so long in the southern sunshine. And those who've enjoyed success in a little flutter (or a largeish one!) go of course in pursuit of their bookmakers, Bryony or otherwise, to savour their own taste of victory and its rewards. Athénaïs de Belfours, for one, is whistling.

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