Fantasy Tigerborn, and other true stories. (most of the time)

[Calibutcher]

The frown he had planned to show his sister upon her arrival quickly dissipated. He instead struggled to hide the glee on his face as he looked between his sister and Sir Leon. They had both done their best to look nice to the other. Better yet his sister noticed Leon's effort no less. He held his tongue for a few moments and enjoyed the anxious looks both had on their faces.

Sir Leon was a brave man not only in combat but In social affairs it seemed. He broke the silence. "Thank you, Lady Alyss. It looks like you have better prepared yourself to train today."

Amare stepped away from his sister and walked to the table where he had laid out the training equipment. He could hardly stay still with these two so obviously pining for one another. He moved around some of the equipment before grabbing a training dagger and throwing it at Alyss. "Catch sister!" He called he quickly strode across the room towards her with a dagger in his own hand. He raised the dagger over his head and thrust the blade down towards her gut. "Defend yourself!"

 

[AEONmeteorite]

Alyss tucked some loose hair behind her ear as the corners of her mouth rose. Leon hadn't called her pretty or complimented her by any means, however he had noticed her preparation and she found the greatest pride being recognized for her efforts. Appearance meant oh so very little when it came to training. Her reflexes were not the slowest, as when the false dagger had been thrown at her, she definitely reacted. She squawked fright, jumped in place, flew up her hands and juggled the blade between them. Back and forth, flying through the air, until she knocked it up slightly too far one direction and overcorrected with the other, to which she watched in horror as it slammed into Sir Leon's face. He was a soldier, but didn't bother to dodge or block it, mostly because he thought it little of a threat and even after the fact, it wasn't much of a big deal. To Alyss though, horror twisted her expression until she finally turned back toward Amare and could only think to duck down and cover her head.

 

[Calibutcher]

His sister's reaction was hilarious and watching her fumble to catch the blade resulting in her flinging it into Sir Leon's face only added to the ensuing hilarity. Leon took it like the man he was of course and despite the training dagger bouncing off his face his hand snatched up and caught the blade before it could tumble to the ground. It was a sobering reminder of just how quick the large man was still.

Amare was undeterred at his sister's disarming nature. However, her maneuver to dodge him would now have him stabbing nearly at her face. He adjusted the blade and instead halted the training dagger near her throat. He chuckled lightly for a moment and looked at Leon. Leon was surprising a chuckle as well and doing a better job of it than Amare.

"Alyss." He reached down and helped his sister stand. A sobering thought came to him. While this was a practice she was missing a crucial point. "You have not been raised to be a warrior as I have, as I have not been raised to be an avid politico as you are. That said there is a lesson you can only teach yourself in defending yourself. You have to always be ready." He gestured to Leon who had caught the dagger that flew into his face. Even now Leon still held the dagger in his hand in a semi-ready position to strike back. "One of the ways you can keep yourself safe is to watch and learn to react quickly. It will come with practice and self-discipline, you will get there, I want to urge you to try and be more aware." His somber tone quickly faded as he knew his sister would head his words. "Now then." Leon handed him the dagger and Amare placed it into his sister's hand.

"Ready position sister." He stepped back and took hold of his own dagger and slid into a low ready stance. "Make your first move." He said with a grin.

 

[AEONmeteorite]

The grace in both the Prince and Princess showed as Amare helped his sister stand and she graciously took his help while rearranging herself into a more astute appearance once more. She listened and absorbed. Alyss had drawbacks for the exact reasons he mentioned, but just as with yesterday, she didn't take lessons lightly. Even with Leon there, she could focus with time given to shelve her blushing feelings temporarily.

With a nod, she held the dagger as she'd been taught and looked her brother over. With past lessons, Alyss also had another knowledge up her sleeve. She had watched the soldiers many times. First when she was young and interested in the art, though she eventually grew into the highness she was meant to be. But second when she'd watch Leon. Though her thoughts prevailed in that of fantastical thinking, she still saw some of what had been trained.

Her approach was calculated and not nearly as smooth as a soldier would put forth. Yesterday she learned to avoid his blade and to seek his arm. She swiped with her blade, aiming for his forearm. It wasn't extravagant, but it was something.

 

[Calibutcher]

His sister was accustomed to treating matters with the gravity they were due. She took his words and her blush from working in front of Leon quickly faded. Whatever reservations she had about training seemed to fade as she slid into a fighting stance. He took a step back and nodded with a new grin on his face.

She was ready. With a kind of thoughtfulness, she made her next move and swung her blade at his forearm. He took a step back and shifted further to his right trying to get around her. He ducked low and lunged forward again thrusting his blade at his side.

 

[AEONmeteorite]

Her blade met with nothing but air and her brother began to move about her. She kept still. Standing in about the same position as first her eyes followed him, and then just her head. Her shoulders twitched as a singular reaction, that is until she heard Leon's voice cut through in speedy urgency, "You must move your whole body my Lady!"

A foot finally lifted and she used her other to pivot around in an attempt to face Amare, however, by that point, his wooden blade had already reached her person. The success going to his name, with what felt like little effort on her part. "Surely I shall learn nothing with you moving so erratically."

 

[Calibutcher]

He was probably more advanced than he needed to but it was a good gauge for how she reacted to new situations, in this instance. She froze and he thought he would strike her without further issue. However, Leon was able to coach her into action, he had to extend himself a bit further but was able to get his blade to find purchase.

He stepped away and stood up again flipping the wooden dagger and catching it with ease, an easy smile on his face. "True, my style can be hard to predict but it is part of the reason I do so well. Leon is correct of course staying mobile will help you. Perhaps a lesson I am not so good at teaching is understanding when to run as well. If you feel you are clearly outmatched throwing your weapon at the assailant and running may be a better option. However, that should only be a last resort as you will of course be weaponless after the fact."

With that, he gave a shrug, "Either way let's get back to it." He took a ready position again and began coaching her through responses to different attacks he could make. Leon was feeling less bashful clearly and was quite helpful in demonstrating and offering advice. Their designated time for training flew by and the three of them now a tad sweaty and more worn out stopped.

"You are making good progress sister. It is a shame your training will have to wait till after the tournament. A few more days of this and I would be willing to don armor on you and see you fight another. How thrilling it would be for one of the other guards to be beaten by the princess." Leon chuckled slightly at the thought along with Amare, they both knew a lazy guard or two that Alyss could perhaps find victory over in combat. The idea was nothing more than idle chatter.

The week-long tournament started tomorrow and both Leon and Amare would be doubly busy with the extra tasks of helping and overseeing the tournament as well as participating in the actual battle itself.

"Are you ready for the festivities sister?" He wrapped an arm around her and gestured towards Leon. "This fine man may become more than just a guard if he proves his mettle in the arena." Leon was trying to become a knight and was well on his way. Tournaments such as this gave an opportunity for someone to be knighted sooner.

Leon nodded along somewhat sheepish again at the attention. "I will become a knight here." He said with a steady determination even if the attention of the princess made him shirk his resolve to reach Knighthood would not be so easily shaken.

"Let us make it so!" Amare cheered.

Regardless of their feelings about the Tournament the rest of the evening passed in their various duties and morning was met with trumpets and busy streets. A sizeable arena for both jousting and combat had been set. Store vendors and entertainers worked the streets which carried crowds of people who celebrated in whichever manner they say fit. Children ran about with toy wooden swords. Those with a keen enough eye may be able to spy a pickpocket or two and through it all the guards watched and kept order, quelling early morning disputes and shooing away those who had drunken through the night to seek rest and return when they were sober.

Amare was up early for a change and had actually listened to his mother and stayed away from the taverns and drunks he had such love for. He wore full armor today with the colors of the city on his tabard. He stood tall as he walked down the hallways of the castle to greet his sister the metal of his armor clinking as he moved and his sword swaying at his hip. He knocked at his sister's door. "Opening ceremonies will start soon sister. Are you ready? Father and Mother want us on the stand with them."

 

[AEONmeteorite]

Alyss scratched her quill against paper in her chambers. After having trained with Amare and Leon, she had walked inner-wall grounds to make certain that the festivities in which the castle and royal households dwelled were prepared. She had swept by near the wall though, up by the gate, where she could already hear a bustle of people readying for the morn in town. Once the gate opened, it'd be a long street deemed for the Festival of Legend. Eventually she arrived back to her chambers to write out anything else that may need to be evaluated in the morning. One of which a reminder to wear warm dress wear, the air was growing all the more crisp going into fall.

Her quill stopped as Alyss sighed and studied the blue ribbon donned in intricate silver details with the crest of the royal family at its center. She'd also gone out to pick this up. Alyss' eyes often strayed back to it while she worked. Just about every woman of age chooses a man to give a ribbon to during the festivities, claiming they were pining on the individual. Sometimes it is their father or brother. Sometimes their husband or son. Sometimes, especially from aristocratic families, it was a voice for clear, romantic intention. Amare had mentioned that Leon may become more than just a guard after the week was over. Between the battles in the arena, the armored race, and the great hunt for the rebirth of the silver tiger, there were many opportunities for even nameless men to gain new status and rank. However, Alyss saw that he may very-well be given a new title if her approach is met with a positive response.

"A husband of a princess isn't often called prince," Alyss muttered to herself. "Earl Leon?" Her heart skipped a beat. Saying such was akin to women imagining their surname the same as the man they fancied. She was thinking too far from her present. She still had yet to even hand him the ribbon. She'd have to gather every bit of herself to tie it upon his wrist when the morrow arrived. If he happened to bring back the body of the great, silver tiger, there'd be no doubts in anyones' mind that he'd be worthy to marry into royalty.

Her mind continued this cycle. Wondering how she'd approach. Imagining how he'd react. Think about what she'd say, how he'd respond and then what may happen after all is said and done. They were fruitless thoughts and more than anything, she could have been setting herself up for disappointment. But they kept while she went to sleep and died away once dreams had taken her thoughts.

These dreams began kind. They were memories. Echoes of her mother's laughter and whispers of tender, calm words to comfort Alyss when she was young. Quite young. These were indeed, the first memories she ever knew, for it was the first time she met Amare. Her mother's words spoke, "Do not fret, this will be your brother. He is older than you and he will protect you." A meeting that did not occur until close to the day of their marriage; her mother and the King. Alyss knew of life only in the castle, even when having been born outside it. The dream changed though. Altered and swayed. There were no scenes in particular that stood out to her, besides what felt like an unending gaze that wasn't her own.

Then, she awoke to a knock on her door.

She clapped her lips and gradually pulled her head from off her pillow. Her hair disheveled along with her nightgown. One side having slipped off her shoulder some. She rubbed at her eyes as she heard Lacie, her maid. "It is time to ready for the Legend of Festivals, my lady."

"Please, wait a moment," Alyss yawned, stretched, then yelped, as from the corner of her eye, she swore she saw a something on her shoulders. She swatted at it, but she felt nothing there, except, there was something most certainly black there.

"My lady! Are you okay?"

"I'm fine, I just spooked my eyes." Alyss tugged on her sleeve a bit, pulling it down to see that black mark better and walked to a mirror. Her jaw fell agape. Not just one mark, there were multiple. Along her shoulders, and from what she could tell, going down her collarbone, chest, and torso. "What on earth?"

"Are you certain you are well?" Lacie asked from beyond the door again.

"Y-yes! I am well! I will be getting ready on my own. You needn't help me with this gown and cape, for I am quite capable. Please do well to help my mother outside the castle, and I will see to you there." All the while Alyss spoke, she continued to study the stripes. A gripping weight of fear every blossoming in her stomach. She waited for a response. There wasn't one for a long while. But eventually it came. Lacie simply understood and declared that she would do as told before leaving.

The fib spoken became all too hard to bear as she began to prep herself. She was no fool when it came to her hair and makeup. Her wardrobe had already been chosen for her. Much to her luck, she'd be wearing a gown and cape that would cover all of the markings. She took long getting ready both in reason for her being the one to do it, and she kept growing distracted by the marks. Looking and relooking them over. She was meant to be out and helping nearly an hour ago when she discovered how hard it was to corset herself and another knock encroached on her thoughts and space.

"Brother?" she gasped, then held her tongue while her fingers pulled on strings. "I am... not... I will be soon ready, for certain. Pray tell, how is mother faring on her own?"

 

[Calibutcher]

Amare had expected his sister to be ready before him. So as he knocked he was taken aback at his sister telling him she was not ready. "Uhm, care to say that again? You are not ready? Where is is Lacie?" What a day was that his sister was unprepared and he was. He was actually unsure how to respond any further though many taunts did come to mind.

 

[Calibutcher]

"Correct, I am not ready," Alyss reaffirmed and then let out a breath of relief upon finally tying the corset, then peered at the mirror once more. From what she could tell, the stripes were about her body, though kept to her upper thighs and arms, and began growing sparse around her front torso. "I sent Lacie away to aid mother in her assignments. I implore you to do the same."

 

[Calibutcher]

"Huh." Was his first reply and he could resist no longer. "Surely you cannot be that nervous about seeing Leon. Imagine his disappointment if you are not there to wish him well in his first battles." He shrugged and leaned against the door. "As you know Mother is fine anyway. She thrives on these events and the servents and father so to her every whim. Things are going fine. So hurry up or I shall drag you to the stand myself."

 

[Calibutcher]

"Wherewith do I need for you to drag me there yourself for me to arrive in a timely manner?" She tied about her skirts, then placed the final piece on over the corset. Promptly hiding the stripes. Being nervous was an understatement. Of course, she'd be nervous. She had been nervous from the start. Now she was hysterical. Presenting her romantic feelings all the while having the stripes, it'd be a strained day. Alyss spun about, snatched up the ribbon, and went for the door. "I am ready," she huffed out and opened the barrier between the two.

 

[Calibutcher]

Amare staggered as the door he had been leaning against suddenly gave way to Alyss bursting through. He stumbled about for a few steps before steadying himself. He righted and put a hand on Alyss shoulder. "You look great. Leon will be beside himself when he sees you." He urged his sister on and took her arm. He lead the way to the stand where father and mother were already present. Servants scurried up and down the short set of stairs that raised them over the arena. Mother fervently spoke with those who came up and presumedly issued new commands and the servants would scurry away. Father sat tapping a finger on the armrest of the chair. Either eager or bored, perhaps both.

"Greeting Father, Mother." Amare bowed to each in turn. "I'm not late, am I? Cause If I am it is Alyss's fault. She was not ready when I made to escort her." Father raised a brow but Mother was too busy to address them yet.

"Not late son. And by any means, if the two of you were I would be hard pressed to believe it is the cause of Alyss."

 

[Calibutcher]

It had waned some kind of relief in Alyss upon hearing about her appearance. With no help and the speed at which she had to put herself together, there'd been no guarantees that she'd look good today. It all worked out, at least for now. She placed the cape along her shoulders as they exited the castle and then to the arena.

Once arriving, her brother had done her the unneeded charity of gaining the attention of their father. "Yes, I had been up late into the night," Alyss began and clasped her hands. "I had made extra certain everything had been well ready for the festival."

"Everything is in order," her mother finally spoke up as though the word, 'festival' was the keyword to her attention. "The first day of the festival is dedicated to the race and opening ceremonies and the ribbon exchange. An easy day. The next two days thereafter shall be dedicated to fights within the arena. The remaining three for the hunt. The last for rest and a feast. It is well." Her last sentence said matter-of-factly, as she most certainly put forth much work in the festival. "There needn't be a reason for you to keep up late. Tonight, be certain to go to bed at a proper time for a lady."

"Very well mother," Alyss chirped and grabbed at the opening of her cape, pulling each side inward.

 

[Calibutcher]

Amare sighed of course no one would believe Alyss to be the cause of tardiness. That was much more in his wheelhouse. He shrugged it off and moved to his seat next to Father. He sat down heavily and the wooden chair creaked under his sudden weight. He sat up though as he scanned the knights who began to gather. This next part was a bit boring but necessary. The contestants began to line up and a squire stood next to each with a coat of arms on a flag. Aare spotted Leon and locked eyes with the man. Eventually, Leon looked back at him, and the two gave a brief nod to each other. Amare mouthed the words 'Good luck'

He noticed Leon shift his gaze to his sister next and Amare rolled his eyes. But a smile met his face still. It was entertaining to see his sister so taken with someone. He knew his mother wanted him to find someone but so far he was not interested in a relationship. Though he would not share that info with his mother.

A fanfare began and all the contestants straightened even further. The speaker introduced the contestants and the kingdom they reigned from. It was a long boring process but Amare kept up appearances and looked attentive and aware.

After the introductions were made the next announcement was made for the ribbon exchange to commence. Amare was started to find that his Mother was giving a ribbon this year.

"For this year I choose to give a ribbon to my son, as I have seen his growth and courage wax strong. I pray he will be able to hunt the silver tiger this year and bring earn his place in the hall of knights." She turned and Amare stood and approached his mother at her beckon.

He opened his mouth to speak but was hushed by his mother. "Yes, dear. I mean what I say. Father and I want you to become a knight this year though we will not simply award it to you. The Quartermaster will determine your readiness."

Amare closed his mouth and nodded. He remained silent but shared a loving look with his Mother and Father in turn. He returned to his seat and then his sister was called upon to award her ribbon.

 

[Calibutcher]

Would it be childish to say that it felt like just yesterday when the two of them were children and she'd hear stories from her brother? Ones where he would slay dragons and take down evil men. Only now he held a real sword with real skill. She gave a soft smile upon viewing the exchange between the two. Certainly, if Alyss had no interest in a man yet, her ribbon would have also been bestowed upon him.

"Maidens of our grand kingdom, please step forward with your ribbons and grace our men with our wishes of success!" the Queen called out and extended her arms. Women began to move forward while she continued. "Whether they be of the guard, knights, or nothing more than working men, all are welcome to participate in any or all the events that are to come. Wish for their safety and their strength to never deter."

Alyss swallowed as she rubbed the ribbon between her fingertips and stood. She strode past her mother and brother and made way down the stairs. Many watched. The princess left the sides of her parents and she was of marriageable age. This would bear new information for all those interested. She sped up once she made it to the bottom of the stairs and composed herself on the trek there. Then, finally, she stood in front of her chosen.

"Sir Leon," she began and lifted the ribbon amidst many other women who spoke to their beloveds. "I grant you this ribbon as a show of my gratitude for guiding me along with my brother in the arts of defense for my own safety. It is, as well," she stopped and shuffled in place for a moment, "it is an example of the feelings I have for you. I wish for your safety and victory, as I wish for you to return and envisage a scene in which you and I begin to stand side-by-side. Would you do me the honor of accepting my ribbon?"

 

[Calibutcher]

Amare while still taken aback at his mother's kindness was still excited to see his sister stand and leave the podium, her action drew many eyes and faint murmurs from those in the crowd who specialized in gossip. Amare sat straight in his chair as Mother and Father took notice of their daughter's actions as well. Father turned to Amare and raised a brow. "Son, did you know of this?"

Amare nodded. "I did." He said pensively. "Should I have told you?"

"A warning would have been nice." His mother said.

"Though it remains her choice." his father said with finality.

Amare gulped slightly and he felt as though he had done something wrong. Neither the King or Queen made any further remark, they watched with curious eyes much like many others.

Leon had already been nervous for this day, but his nerves were largely quelled by his training. Until such time that he watched Alyss leave the stand and begin walking towards him. He had already been closer to her than he ever imagined as they had been training to help her learn to defend herself. The past few days had been a tad awkward at times but he found that she was more than merely a pretty face and his imaginings of possibly being with one of such status as her seemed more plausible than ever before. He had been keeping those thoughts locked away though behind layers of uncertainty and doubt. But now she approached him with a ribbon. He heard his name as she spoke it and he looked into her eyes and did not hear part of what she said. He was dumbstruck that she had chosen him. His mind tuned back in just in time for him to hear her say that she did have feelings for him. She wanted to stand side by side with him.

He opened his mouth and stammered out his eager reply. "Accept! Yes, I uh." He chuckled slightly at his own folly. "Thank you, my lady." He stuck out his shaky arm and tried to hold it steady so she could tie it to him. "I accept this ribbon and would like to stand with you at my side." His mind reeled and his face flushed against his will he looked to the ground feeling his courage leave him as he tried to accept what was happening. He was thrilled, ecstatic really. But he began to feel the pressure of the eyes that watched the both of them.

 

[AEONmeteorite]

With fingers first loosely holding the ribbon, Alyss took in Leon's acceptance to her extension. What was once a ginger hold, grew tight and pinched at the ribbon as glimmers of slight disbelief roared through her. Though, why should she be surprised? She was the princess after all. Technically, any man would be a fool to not accept an offer. She could have let that fester doubts as he extended his arm to her, but she decided to not let such things eat at her. Amare had put forth effort to make it reasonable to believe that Leon shared the same feelings she had toward him.

She pushed the ribbon forward and wrapped it carefully about his wrist. Tying it so it surely would not fall off in the week to come. Her lips were tight the entire while as she resisted any chance of fumbling in her fluster. Then, it was done. "I wish I could keep by your side now, Sir Leon," she took a step back and continued, "but I must return to the side of my mother. Thank you." She gave the slightest nod, resisting an urge to bow too deeply for prying eyes would find it unfit for a royal to give such a bow.

With that, she mazed through the different men and remaining ladies giving their ribbon. Once she'd reached the stairs, the King began his words about the festival and stood from his seat. "Over a millennium ago, people were ruled by the Silver Tiger. A greedy beast who sought to be worshipped by mankind in exchange for man's protection. Our ancestors would not have it. They wished to provide and live for themselves." The King paused as Alyss returned to her seat, and saw servants readying behind the family. "We know not his name, only his legend of our ancestor who was the first to take down the silver tiger. Every 22 years the beast resurrects and every 22 years, we have returned the silver tiger back to its heavens. We use this week to commemorate the abilities of man. How we run, fight, protect and hunt. We remind ourselves that man is strong. Stronger than a supposed deity. You can gain honor in the race and arena, but, just as my fathers before me, the one who takes down the silver tiger will have equal opportunity to the throne. Do not take light of my son, for he will return with the pelt as I've done for my father."

The King paused again as two servants came forth, whipped their wrists to show a silver pelt, then laid it along the shoulders of the King. After the mantle was placed, he extended his arms to either side of him, to which servants all around the arena, high above the head of the audiences, unraveled 48 other pelts to hang like flags. "Welcome to my generation of the Festival of Legend! Ready yourselves for the race, for such will occur on the 11th hour."

The arena, both guard and audience alike, cheered with great ferocity. The Festival of Legend had begun.

 

[Calibutcher]

He did his best to remain still as she tied the ribbon to him, he shuffled slightly as she worked, and again he struggled to find a place to land his eyes. He settled for watching her hands as she tied the ribbon. "you will be fine without me for the festival. After, I shall return. We shall spend more time side by side then." He said with an earnest serenity. The thought of spending time with her that would be dedicated to them getting to know one another was exciting, and just a tad intimidating. His training kept him from becoming overwhelmed by the wash of emotions. He needed to stay present and focus on what was happening now. As she walked away his mind returned to the Festival. More importantly the race he was about to run.

He returned to his stance at attention as the king spoke and announced the festival's beginning. The cheering of the crowd brought his already rapidly beating heart to thunderous drumming that carried on with the cheers of the people. This would be his year.

Amare shared the same thought as Leon, his excitement to prove himself worthy of the throne thundered in his heart as the crowd cheered. He raised his own voice to join the throng. The hunt for the Silver tiger would come, and he would have it's pelt on his throne.

Within the hour Leon and Amare found themselves in the first activity of the festival. A race that carried through a large swath of countryside in the kingdom. At the call of the Gamemaster, the event was begun. To say it was a grueling event was to put it lightly. But those that had trained for it found themselves nearing the finish line around 5 hours later. Amare and Leon were both near the front of the pack nearly matching pace, they had kept each other going in a bit of fair sportsmanship, but now as the finish line drew into sight they distanced themselves slightly preparing to give their all in the final moments.

They both applied a burst of speed, and here Amare took the lead, his leaner frame gave way to a greater speed than Leon, and Amare pushed to the front of the group, securing himself a victory In the race, he was followed closely by another guard and then Leon came in third. Amare shouted in elation and thrust his fists into the sky, others joined his Jubile with shouts of Huzzah and Hail the prince.

Amare looked to his friend Leon and gave a nod, respect for his friend who came so close. Leon huffed and could only scour at Amare for a few long moments before the two broke into brief laughter. "You got this one!" Leon panted for air. "Best watch out for the next."

Amare also fought to put enough air in his lungs but replied through his gasps all the same. "I won't underestimate you," he spoke. The two broke apart for a time Amare to revel in his victory and Leon to find Alyss, who he wanted dearly to speak with further. Amare may have won the race, but Leon saw a far greater prize in his new relation with Alyss.

 

[AEONmeteorite]

Clatter of amor sounded throughout the arena as the competitors readied. Alyss knew how strenuous it was to run in armor. However, while tough, they did not have to wear their helmets. What's more, as it was the first events, their bodies were no weary. The run wasn't long, but long enough that they'd be for certain sore if they hadn't trained prior [changed this from your post as running in armor for 5 hours would be tough. And the average marathon time is 4 1/2 hours - I was think they'd do like a mile or 5k]. There sounded the gamemaster, to which the men began their way out the arena. The audience boomed. Loud boisterous cheers of pride, drowning the volume of the running men.

Then it was silent. "Lacie," Alyss called over her shoulder, "I wish to freshen up."

"Already your highness?" Lacie cooed back and stepped out from a corridor behind a wall and the seats where the royalty sat. "Hasn't the games just begun?"

"There will be but mild chatter tonight for those staying in the inner walls. Nothing more of today is exciting. I have worked up a sweat from climbing the stairs and I do value my appearance in front of Sir Leon."

Alyss began to stand, to which Lacie strode closer in order to proper guide the princess in. "A sweat? In this weather? My, you would be freezing from your own made chill if that is the case." The two went into the corridor. While not incredibly decorated, it was the most fanciest part of the arena. Leading to three, considerably small rooms made for royalty to ready and relax along with invited guests and sometimes servants. "You must truly like this man if you worry so."

"I order you to be silent."

"I shall my silent." Lacie stopped, turned and gestured to the room for Alyss to enter, all the while carrying a smug grin.

"Stay at the entry. Do not allow anyone to come in or look." Lacie nodded and the princess walked in while pulled a curtain behind her. Her thoughts had been trampled by these stripes. She managed to remember the ribbon and to walk to Sir Leon, but now she had barely a thought on what to say to him upon his return. She simply had to be certain nothing had begun to show. She removed her cape, draped it on the back of a chair and turned to a mirror.

Her hands were fine. Face, also untouched. She turned around a looked over her shoulder, to which her eyes fell on small stripes on the nape of her neck. She resisted the urge to gasp. She'd been fortunate that the cape had covered the newly developed marks. Now her mind felt even more unease. Her fingers fumbled at her hair and she worked with the ornaments until it released and fell upon her shoulders. The curls doing well to cover her neck. She placed the cape back and left the room.

"You found it well to change...?" Lacie began, but sealed her lips when Alyss stopped and tightened her stance, then continued forward.

She sat with her parents and did well to manage her emotions. Her body sprung loose some of her ever turmoiling mind. She could not sit still. Quite unlike a princess to fidget. Both King and Queen took their own moments to eye her, but did not ask questions. And, despite it all, those racing began to run about the arena and back into it. Alyss stood, putting hands on the railing and leaned to view who came first.

The crowd grew quiet. Everyone matching Alyss' actions the best they could in their seats. Then, finally, a familiar face broke through. Her brother. While it wasn't Sir Leon, a sure smile broke on her face. That was her brother, how could she expect anything less. Nor though did she feel disappointment upon seeing Leon take the third spot. Out of well over a hundred men, he took third. That was nothing to scoff. More and more pattered through, leaving at least fifty men further behind. There'd be a good sum that'd take far more time to arrive.

"Go on," her father spoke out. "Go congratulate your chosen guard. Do so with respect."

She hopped once in place, fueled with blissful thoughts and went to step back down the stairs. Eyes came again. More and more as people elbowed their neighbor and pointed at the princess who would certainly return to her chosen. While she walked though, she did indeed divert her path to pass her brother. While on her way, she lightly grabbed his arm for his attention. "You should be proud Amare. I know our father will be and I am too. I feel as though I have received two wins for one ribbon." She continued on until she found Sir Leon, taking a moment to look down at the ribbon before turning her eyes to his face. "You performed well. It would seem I have chose a worthy champion to even compete with the prince."

 

[Calibutcher]

( I imagined they would have taken armor off for the race, though a race in armor sounds very exciting, either way, it doesn't change much.)

Leon was stuck behind the crowd of people who wished to congratulate him and the other winners. He was not as tall as Amare and struggled to look over the crowd. He caught a glimpse of Alyss stepping down from the podium, which he assumed to head his way. He still tried to push through the crowd and make his way toward her but the number of people who wanted to wish him well or tell him he would win the next challenge slowed him considerably.

Over the shouts of friends and colleagues, Amare almost missed his sister congratulating him, when he spotted her he raise a hand for the people around him to quiet some. Still high on excitement, many did but others still shouted and cheered in the background. "Thank you, dear sister!" He called back and ran over to her to give her a brief hug. With that, he returned to his other friends who had already produced several mugs of Ale and he greedily took a cup and joined in the revelry anew.

Leon had gotten through as much of the crowd as he could but Alyss ultimately made it to him. As she walked people respectfully gave her room to walk and soon she was in front of him. He gave a relieved smile as people gave them a bit of space to talk, even if some people watched and listened with great interest. "The prince and I have trained much together." He raised the hand that had the ribbon tied to it. "Though you gave me a new reason to run faster than I ever have before." He said with a grin that completely betrayed his ecstatic notion of having received the ribbon. "Thank you for this boon." He reached out and took one of her hands. It was his turn to let her know that he was interested. "May I call on you tonight? I would be eager for the two of us to have a chance to speak. Perhaps in the gardens?"

 

[AEONmeteorite]

It felt almost too easy. Seeing the royal crest on his wrist as an indiciation of his acceptance to her reach. She didn't mind that it had panned out smoothly, except now she wished she'd made an advancement earlier than today. "You are welcome," she replied while he took up her hand. There were many different sights on her. Him, the people and even herself. Her eyes immediately flicked down to her hand as to double check that stripes hadn't traced her skin there. Her heart skipped a beat both in part from him taking her hand and that scare if something had been there, but her skin was free from etchings. Alyss huffed out relief and returned his smile with her own. "Yes, you may call on me. The gardens would be a splendid place to converse. However, we allow contestants to stay within the inner grounds. Have you chosen to stay near the castle? If so, you should dine with my family this even."

 

[Calibutcher]

He was never far from the castle, as a guard and knight in training he usually stayed at the barracks anyways. Hearing her acceptance of their meeting in the garden got him excited. "Splendid!" He began at once but upon hearing an invitation for dinner he balked uncertain of how to proceed. Dinner with her met dinner with the king and queen by extension. Something he did not feel at all prepared for. Especially now as sweat still slicked his back and brow. Refusing such an offer did not seem an option.

His nerves threatened to fray under such a weighty offer. He decided to voice at least one of his concerns, "I've nothing fit to wear for dining with the king and Queen or you for that matter."

 

[AEONmeteorite]

Alyss refrained from showing any shock. While true, the guard and soldiers are a well trained group that came from aristocratic, middle class and poor families, she'd somehow put the idea in her head that he must have been well off enough to have such wear. That, or she didn't consider what minimal clothing those of the guard who stayed in the inner walls had with them. She did after all only watch them train and speak to her brother. She opened her mouth, prepared to offer such arrangements for him. Surely she wouldn't have to sit for supper for at least an hour or two. It all depended on the King's time and his duties. They would have time to find proper clothing however, after a quick thought, she weighed how it may sound. She could be too pushy, too aggressive and within her agendas. Such favoritism could be seen poorly among those who happened to learn of royalty already gifting a guard who will be participating in the hunt. Rumors may spread.

"Very well," Alyss shrugged and sighed. They would have to wait till after the festival to make any such shows, besides her offering the ribbon to begin with. "Dessert then? You and I can take it to the gardens with us."

 

[Calibutcher]

The embarrassment admitting such brought him was minimized when she offered instead for them to simply share dessert afterward. The relief of not having to dine with the King and Queen was enough for him to audibly sigh in relief. "Dessert sounds splendid." He would have plenty of time to clean himself and his gear and get ready for their meeting that evening. "I must be going then. I've much to do till then." While people had given him and the princess space to speak they still yearned for his attention as many wished to congratulate him or wish him well.

He gave an awkward half bow before stepping away. He was suddenly a tad unsure of how to say goodbye but with that, he faded into the crowds and hide his embarrassment in the throngs of people. Through the people and flurry of activity, his next couple of hours flew by. He practically had to run to get away from the people so he could get back to the barracks and grab a change of clothes. He did not have time to go to a proper bath house so he settled for wiping the sweat and grime from him with a wash basin. He picked a pair of simple pants and a tunic that smelled and looked the cleanest. And he headed for the gardens as the sun dipped behind the castle walls and dusk approached.

The Gardens were already lit with torches to prepare for the coming darkness and the walls hedged with vine glowed in the light of the setting sun and the torches This late in the season the flowers were beginning to wilt in some places as they would prepare themselves for the cold that would come through here. But the groundskeepers were clever enough to plant hardy shrubs and flowers that thrived regardless. These were all irrelevant compared to the one he came here to meet. Alyss was already present with a servant and a small cart that he presumed held their dessert. He was starving now, he still had not caught dinner for himself but he supposed today dessert would come first.

"Princess!" He called out as he approached. "I hope I am not late." He added with a grin. "WHat have you brought?"