Duel:Mathollak v Nortengaal, Match 7 of the 2022 Vailkrin Tournament

Duelists: Mathollak vs Nortengaal

 Duel: Traditional 3 rounds with final defense, 20 minute posting limit.
 Stakes: Auto-hit to the winner
 Judges: Kasyr, Lanara, Mahri

Dark Arena

The arena is filled with various corpses, both dead and undead alike. Several zombies seem to be carrying the corpses out of the arena, returning them to the masters they served. Many bodies here look disfigured and ill, clearly abominations constructed by necromancers to serve in the gladiator-like battles held here in the arena. Several of the other bodies though are completely normal, those of which were likely living participants that did not succeed in winning their matches. A battle must have recently gone on here, as the crowds of people step out of the entrance of the area. To the south is the way out, while to the north is a path leading to the back of the arena, and the castle beyond that.

Pre-duel Banter and Introduction

Quintessa is here to host the event tonight, currently seated alone in the commentary box. As people get seated, the Countess rises to begin the ceremony, a hand placed upon the podium to project her voice. “Boys, Girls, Enbies, I hope you’re all having a good one because it’s time yet again for Vailkrin Blood Bowl. I’m Quintessa Blackwell and I am proud to present to you the third match of round two. We’ve got a special surprise in store for you today…”

Quintessa gestures to one side of the arena. “In this corner is a returning fighter, rising triumphant over the bone-crushing vice of the Queen of Alithrya… He is the Axe of Love… Let’s give it up for Mathollak!”

Mesdoram shouted, "LET'S GO MATHOLLAK!! AXE YOUR OPPONENT TO DEATH!"

Mathollak has been sitting in the stands in a section filled only by people wearing red hooded robes with hearts emblazoned on them. Mathollak wears one too, but his hood isn’t pulled over. It’s Smaxi! His favorite party-pal, who also happens to be a satyr, that brings him Delisha’s blessing. No longer just a simple piece of stone with a whole in it, her bubbling divine substance is swirling in a pewter goblet. He notices of course. When Smaxi delivers it, his eyes widen and he looks at the satyr with love and endless pride in his eyes. He drinks it, and its begun. He rises from his seat and with one hand, hurls his heavy greataxe into the center of the arena, where the cracked marble blade wedges itself. He soon follows it, soaring through the air wreathed in smoke, seeming like a meteor as he crashes down into the same place his axe landed. The smoke dissipates, and its him. But the robe has burned up a bit, revealing his arm has been altered. Where the changes used to end at his elbow, a dark maroon leathery hide has corrupted his flesh up to the shoulder, and reaching toward the same side of his chest. “To my beloved fans!” He bellows. “To my future fans and current haters! But most of all…For Delisha’s love! I fight!” As usual, he’s wearing The Belt of Freedom, and using the enormous strength it gives him. Strength enough to ‘break any chain’. And The Piecemaker, the great axe of heavy cracked marble, supposed to be the ultimate homewrecker, in a literal sense. The chain he nabbed at the start of his last duel is coiled in a loop and hanging from his belt, ironically, but he doesn’t wear any actual armor. His celestial bronze cleaver is probably hidden somewhere on his person, but comfortable and red seems to be the theme of his wardrobe today.

Quintessa gestures to the other side. “And his challenger, an impressive bear of a man, weighing in at over 21 and a half stone- The novel, the nebulous, the Noteworthy Nortengaal!”

Nortengaal strolls into the arena, slipping a flask back into its holster at his waist. Has he been drinking before his bout? Only a little bit, maybe a small bottle's worth, just enough to get the fight juices flowing. Looking around he waves to the folks in the stands, red eyes lingering briefly on a couple folks in particular that he can recognize from here. It’s good to see friends among the myriad faces. He's dressed plainly for the match, a simple dark blue vest with no shirt underneath adorning his top half, blue pants and dark leather boots on his bottom half, ever-present various pouches on his waist. Perhaps not the most intuitive attire for a blood bowl fight, but it's comfortable and he figures he’s probably sturdy enough for whatever might come his way.

Quintessa || Saorsa joins them to serve as referee from her own, protected booth in the stands, her hand placed upon her podium. “Before we begin, have you both discussed any wagers, stakes, or special rules for this bout? If not we will default to standard rules (20 min post limit, autohit awarded to winner). Have the duelists agreed on who will be attacking first? If not, the hosts may decide for you. Judges please keep in contact with us during this match, if three judges have not been selected yet I will appoint people to fill the remaining slots.”

Mathollak ooc: I'm going first, twenty minute rounds, standard stakes. Lanara, Mahri, and Kasyr to judge.

Quintessa || “If both duelists agree to and understand the rules, say ‘Ready,’ and the environmental hazard shall be introduced.”

Nortengaal said, "ready"

Mathollak said, "ready"

Environmental Challenge

Quintessa || The ground directly between Mathollak and Nortengaal begins to rise with a powerful rumble, creating a small mountain that is easily as tall as a single-story house, and just wide enough to obscure vision of either fighter. With small bursts of arcane energy, peppermint candies, butterscotch squares, dragon popper candies, gummy flowers, and candy bars start to bloom along the length of the mountain, resulting in the excited cries of the younger audience viewers. Another rumble comes, and without warning, the top of the candy mountain pops open, releasing a volcanic burst of liquid caramel that splatters along the ground, and more than likely onto the fighters as well. As the candy cools, it becomes increasingly sticky and difficult to maneuver. When it eventually cools completely, it will become a slick, glassy surface, making it difficult to maneuver in a different way. Because it would not be Vailkrin without an element of horror, no matter how cartoonish, two licorice lined dragon wings extend from the top of the volcano's pit. Black candy beads for eyes on a pointed snout soon join as the candied dragon takes a good look at each fighter. "Better fight quickly, looks like Sugar Mama is hungry!"

Leoxander had snuck into the spectator stands surrounding the arena with the Mouse at some point, likely not noticed until he was seated with a yawn behind his arm, appearing as though he probably just woke up in the middle of the day. Still, he summoned the energy to give a few claps and call out, “Let’s go, Nort’.” The therianthrope had become a part of that underground circle that no one spoke about, but having faced Mathollak in the past with that self same weapon and mutation, he expected the red robed blood knight to keep the bearman busy and divided his attention between the two until they clashed.

Lanara is sitting by herself in the stands, though one of her packmate’s is likely nearby as she’s unable to travel alone these days. She eyes the snazzy red hoodies with the hearts emblazoned on them and imagines how great -she- would look in one. Perhaps, pink would suit her more? The witch sizes up Mathollak before she turns to see the imbecile that’s screaming for the combatant to axe his opponent to death. It’s -HIM- that psychopath from the summer solstice event! Narrowing her eyes on Mesdoram, she shakes her head in distaste and hopes he behaves himself for the duration of the fight.

Lita lets out a shrill whistle as she cheers for Nort from her place in the stands, moving to join Leo and Mouse as they find seats.

Valrae arrives late, as typical for the witch, and escorted by her guards. Today she is wearing a red dress to show support for the only fighter she knows very well in this particular duel. Her hair was pinned back from her face. After grabbing her one allowed beer and pawning her giant purse off to her guard, she finds a seat near Leo and Lora and makes herself comfortable after offering them a wave of hello. She has a sign in the shape of a giant heart with an ax drawn on it. She’s not sure what it is supposed to mean really, but she waves it proudly from the stands nonetheless.

Lefty calmly rolls over to the dead gorgon and hermit crabs into the body with a soft squelch. The Gorgon sits upright, and takes a seat in the audience.

Khitti || Khitt eventually found a seat by himself somewhere, with his usual bottle of whiskey--though this one is cinnamon flavored! He'll probably just sit there and drink and watch and not much else today.

Loravelle is feeling much better now, and with her nose no longer completely stuffed she scrunches her nose, curious and confused at the out of place scent of burnt sugar. Caramel? While seated beside Leo, she claps along too, but she finds herself torn on who to cheer for. Both. She's going with both. Is it strange to want to take a bite out of one of the dragon's wings? Lora wasn't terribly fond of most sweets, but after eating so little the last few days, some sort of ungodly spun sugar monstrosity sounded good. Her stomach probably growls, and she hopes it isn't audible with the cheering crowd. She leans in close to Leo. “Dinner after this?” Then quickly leans away at the sound of Lita's whistle, grinning at the sight of her. She's a little bit of a copycat then, and whistles similarly to Lita too.

Mesdoram has a keen sense of when he's being stared at... more so glared at... more so-so 'death glares and people wishing him dead with stares' stares. He feels Lanara's judgmental (though the correct judgement) stare daggers at his tiny frame; in response, Mesdoram turns in the direction of Lanara and sweetly waves her. Sweetly? No... very sarcastically followed by a sinister smile. "You're welcome to sit next to me, friend!" The drow shouts from across several aisles and people in his vicinity.

Lanara spies Lita, Lora, Leo, and Valrae, and so she swiftly vacates her place and goes to sit with them. “Hey guys! How are you all today?” A bucket of popcorn is propped on her lap along with a huge stack of napkins. Clearly, she doesn’t want to smear butter in her hair or on her pale pink summer dress. Dark eyes land on Nortengaal as he enters the area briefly, before the volcano and candy make their debut. Lana chuckles and eats a mouthful of popcorn, “This is going to be awesome.” And very messy. She’d know. She once fought her sister in a mud wrestling match and that’s not nearly as sticky as caramel!

Leoxander turned his attention to Lita, first, shoulders moving for a huff of a mute laugh with a murmured reply to her private statement. “Not in this damn place.” Gaze pulled to Lora’s opposite side, he offered Valrae a not even if she had pegged him with popcorn, last bout. The same words could be used to answer Loravelle but he nods to her, and for once the rogue is sort of leaning against her, resting his cheek against the top of her head briefly, only a slight wince given for the whistling near his sensitive ears. It was about to get louder in that stadium, anyhow.

Reginae || Reginae is not here. || A rowdy group of adoring fans all crowd as close to the arena in a growing group. They scream in unison when the environment shifts, chanting Mathollak's name over the normal cheers of the crowd at a glass shattering volume.

Valrae smiles sweetly as Lanara moves closer. “I love that dress!” She chirps. She also leans over to wave at Khitt, who didn’t seem to be in a very social mood. When she turns back, she’s nodding to the other witch. “I want to eat the area though… At least, the caramel.”

Lanara scowls when the drow dares to address her and even worse invites her to sit with him. Does he really think she’d lower herself to sit beside a dark elf with a severe psychiatric condition?! She recalls Penelope mentioning that Mesdoram needs to be in the sunlight to stabilize his mood and she wonders if the hospital let him out for another day trip. Munching on her popcorn, she shakes her head at the offer but she definitely doesn’t invite him to see with the group. “Uh. Save me a seat at your next show!” She’s not going to his stupid play, but she doesn’t want to appear rude in front of her friends.

Lita waves at Lanara as she joins them. She's eyeing the girl's popcorn, not because she wants to eat it but because she's a fondness for tossing the stuff at Magik's head at these events. 19:31:31Kasyr strides over to a still vacant seat along the outskirts of the stands, and promptly lounges back- seemingly indifferent to the mixed reactions his presence entails. Some, no doubt, still recall Vexars declaration of his mortality from before, while others, perhaps, hold allegiance to houses that harbour frostier relations with that of Azakhaer. Yet, of those who notice, there are some whose interest is less overtly hostile. Possibly because they haven't suffered recent property damage due to his presence.

Valrae shares a fondness for throwing popcorn at people with Lita (sorry Leo), Lana might have to be careful with those two around her snack.

Meri won't let Khitt sit alone for the entire duel, nor will she let him hog that whiskey.

Lefty notices the stares and slowly, carefully puts on a set of sunglasses. Better safe than sorry. Accidentally killing people for staring is bad press. Newly shaded, he watches the people prepare for the fight from his comfortable perch. The gorgon cheers manicly. "Who's fighting again? Go team!"

The Duel

19:33:43Mathollak takes several steps back as the mountain emerges from the ground, and several more as the caramel lava spills out. As it approaches, he dips a now monstrously clawed finger into the ooze and tastes it. Delicious, but filled with unfortunate implications. And that dragon…! She was threatening them. Threatening Mathollak! There was only room in this tournament for one hungering monster, and Mathollak intends to take the other one down. He quickly uncoils his chain as he dips his axe into the molten caramel, coating it in a thick layer. In a feat of great strength, he casts the chain in a wide arc, up toward the dragon. It smacks against her neck and begins to coil around and Mathollak gives it a tug. The audacity! The dragon yanks back, and when he suddenly gives in to her strength, he’s pulled immediately off his feet and out of the caramel surprise, and hurtling through the air once again. He would get spun around like a tether ball if he held on, but for him, getting tossed about was just another way to get from A to B. As his arc causes him to approach Nortengal, he lets go, hoping the the sticky caramel will pin him in place long enough to be hit by a red comet. His goal here seems simply to be to burst through Nortengal’s chest, as he leads with his heavy red claw. What isn’t apparent, is that the smoke that coats his claw is enchanted with a baleful blessing. A mere scratch could turn into a severe laceration as old wounds near the fresh one are opened up, the curse spreading like poison.

Lanara smiles at Valrae, “Thank you! I love your dress, too! Red is the -perfect color for you.” She -is- the Red Witch, after all! She shifts a little closer to Val and offers her some popcorn as she nods in agreement, “Same. But, I think I’d make a mad dash for the licorice.” She laughs, “I can’t even imagine the calories on that mountain!” As Lita waves and eyes the popcorn, Lana offers her some, as well. The bucket is huge and there’s no way the little witch will eat it all. At least not in one sitting.

Khitti || Khitt returned Valrae's waved, then smirked at Meri, handing over the spicy booze.

Mesdoram shrugs at Lanara's rejection to a totally sensible offer. "She knows how great I am, right?" The monologue plays quietly in his head. "I know right? She's clearly crazy!" The voice in his head responds to himself. Seeing who else he might be able to pester, the drow eyes Meri going to Khitt's drink. "Grab me one, best friend!" The drow intended this shout obviously for Meri; however, since he is shouting throughout the stadium, perhaps another patron would happily procure the devilish drow a drink of five.

Leoxander wasn’t oblivious to that little section of seating growing in number, nor the fact he was becoming increasingly surrounded by dangerous women. Reaching for the back waistline of his pants, the black short sleeved shirt he wore was lifted just enough to take the flask tucked away back there, yawning against with a brief display of canines slightly larger than a human’s should be but not entirely ‘fanged out’ before he twisted off the lid to take a drink from it. The should from the drow in their general direction, meant for Lanara who got a nod of greeting, brought the wolf’s eyes lingering in Mesdoram’s direction for a moment, very little patience found there. But since Valrae had reprimanded him last time and was in close range today, he kept his comments to himself for now. “Now ain’t this some bulls-...” Mutter, grumble, gesture. “If this had been the first round that girl woulda been too busy tryin’ to eat the damn floor to send her bones at me.”

Loravelle waves at both Valrae and Lanara, then blinks a little when her head is suddenly used as a pillow by the rogue. She tries to maintain some stillness for his sake, and reaches a hand up to gently pat his head. Is that odd for PDA? Hopefully not, but she doesn't let her nerves get the better of her this time. Instead she searches the pockets of her robes for one of those emergency flasks to take a drink. Leo probably won't enjoy the contents of this particular flask – it's tea. The other, however...She takes it out too, and holds it out for him to take. Whiskey.

Khitti || Khitt would literally smack Mesdoram if he thought about touching the whiskey. "Oi, don't you dare think you're getting any of this. And Meri is not your bestie! I will literally find one of those jellyfish from my match and shove it down your throat," the redhead said to the rather obnoxious drow.

Valrae smiles widely again, blushing. “Thanks,” The blonde replies, taking a tentative handful of the popcorn to munch on. “Probably too much,” She says in a very serious tone, considering the trouble she’d had recently with fitting into said red dress. It was exactly the reason she’d only be allowed one beer. “Anyone make any bets?” She asks the small group. She laughs when Leo comments on the arena as well. “Yeah, I think I would take candy over spiders or jellyfish any day. I wonder how good caramel is for the hair though…” She gives Lana a wide eyed look. It would probably be disastrous, especially for a vain creature like her. “On second thought…”

Mahri is here. She's late, go figure. Mahri makes her way towards Leo, Lita, Mouse and whomever else might be there because she really isn't even paying that much attention, just enough to not step on toes or inadvertantly sit on an unsuspecting lap.

Iintahquohae retreated from Cenril after the election to spend some time mingling with the houses she had some alliances with in Vailkrin, business or otherwise. In fact, she's visiting the arena sandwiched between one of House Ventra's artisans and one of Trintus' soldiers, talking in hushed tones before her attention is drawn toward a certain Revenant she hasn't crossed paths with in some time. She parts from her companions to climb into a seat right next to Kasyr, strong arming whoever might be sitting next to him right out of the way if she has to. Her demeanor is calm given the circumstances, though Kas knew her well enough to know something ripples beneath the surface of that facade. A long and skinny arm casually drapes over her sire's shoulder, making a point of grabbing hold of that shoulder in a tight grip. It's only then that she leans in to whisper something.

Reginae || A couple of Mathollak’s groupies are climbing up on top of each other, hoping to be splattered by the caramel splashback from his axe. One woman is blessed with a single dot of caramel on her cheek and starts crying tears of joy.

Mesdoram said to Khitti, "(eyes you up and down then shouts) Better warriors than you have tried and failed spectacularly. Make your move, Big Red! (the drow offers a wink and returns to watching the fight)"

Khitti said to Meri, "I'm gonna kill him, okay? I'll make sure I bring him back from the dead though, so you and Magik can have your turn."

Leoxander let Lora know he’d come prepared that day and the tea was all hers. Sitting up from his lean on the petite human, he scratched his fingers roughly through his hair, messing it all the more even if it had already appeared like he’d rolled out of bed and into some black clothing and boots. He had that usual squint in his eyes despite that the city was a predominantly a dark, gloomy place.

Lanara smirks at Leo when he gives Mesdoram a ‘look’ because it’s one she knows well; the look of annoyance. They share the same sentiment it seems, regarding that particular drow. Lana look at Valrae and nods, “I’d take the bugs and sealife over having to lose my hair, any day. But a snake? I’d be bald in a second flat if I had to be in there with one of those.” She’s had a fear of serpents her entire life and sadly, it’s one of those fears she will never quite get over. “I missed the jellyfish duel. How was it?”

Lefty looks away from the battle at the 'big red' comment. The gorgon hmmphs and returns to watching, sounds of a stomach rumbling emanating from her left eye-socket. Faint tendrils of smoke waft from behind the sunglasses.

Meri said to Khitti, "Just do what Magik does. Look right at him and tell him you will kill him where he stands."

Lefty said to Khitti, "Or eat him. Is that still an option?"

Quintessa said, "A friendly reminder to all duelists in the crowd- getting killed before your match -will- result in disqualification. Thank you."

Nortengaal ’s jaw literally drops as the mountain of candy appears. He wasnt sure what to expect, but it sure as heck wasnt this. A low rumble of his stomach joins the rumble of the arena, perhaps Nort should have eaten something before the match. Splashes of molten caramel land around the bearman, a few landing on him as well, searing his bare skin in small spots. He attempts to brush one off, only to find it, somewhat predictably, smearing and difficult to remove. Taking another approach, he opts to let them cool, as his focus is drawn to the…yep, thats a candy dragon. And it looks as delicious as its’s perch. Drooling now, he actually takes a step towards the beast before his opponent makes his move, snapping him to attention with an impressive display of strength. As he rapidly approaches, Nort has a scant moment to consider his options, and a smirk crosses his features. Close combat it is, thankfully, at least for now. A quick sidestep brings him out of the direct path of the blood knight, the movement joined with a pivot between globs of caramel as Nort clasps his hands together and swings them around in a hammer blow aimed towards the back of his opponent as he moves past, hoping to drive him into the dirt, and if the bearman has any luck, perhaps into some of the still cooling caramel littering the area.

Khitti said to Meri, "Hmm. Okay. Lemme try."

Khitti said to Mesdoram, "*stares at you* I will kill you where you stand."

Valrae gives Lanara a thoughtful look before nodding. “I don’t mind snakes but if you put me somewhere between hair or bugs the hair goes.” She takes a long drink of her beer. “I think it went okay. I threw stuff at Leo.” She offers him a wide, playful smile.

Khitti said to Lefty, "Not for me, unfortunately. You can eat him, if you want. I give you permission."

Lefty said to Khitti, "Thank you so much! I was feeling a bit peckish."

Mesdoram said to Khitti, "But didn't you hear? *points to Quintessa after her reminder to duelists in the crowd* If you kill me, I will be disqualified for my next match!"

Leoxander gave Valrae a sidelong glance as he took another drink from his flask before returning his focus on the duelists in the center of the arena, studying both and watching their strategies unfold carefully.

Leoxander also happened to notice Mahri, though he was aware of her presence moments before his eyes confirmed her close proximity.

Quintessa nods her head pointily at Mesdoram.

Khitti said to Mesdoram, "Hm. It is a tough choice between killing you or letting Shishi do it after your match with his daughter."

Lanara watches Nort step around the caramel as he delivers an attack of his own to the fellow cloaked in smoke, her eyes widening as both men seem to be evenly matched. This will be a good fight! She gives Val a sidelong glance and giggles, “Bugs and snakes would make us a couple of bald witches! Pfft. We’d still be badass.” She’s certain of it! As the blonde mentions harassing the pirate, she grins because it’s nice to know that she’s not the only one capable of getting on Leo’s last nerve. A few people seem to be bickering with Mesdoram and Lana momentarily glances at the drow and sees that Meri is one of the people he’s managed to annoy. Is there anyone who -does- like that man?! A hand is lifted to wave a greeting at the psion.

Mesdoram blinks confusedly at Khitt's words... The drow had been under the impression he was fighting an orange? Not a child... "Looks like my next fight be easier than I thought..."' His inner voice encouraging him with positive feedback. "Well, my pal Khitt..." Mesdoram begins addressing outloud. "... if this is to be my final fight with you... I'm going to need a drink." Instantly, Mesdoram opens a whiskey bottle and begins enjoying himself a small drink.

Meri returns Lanara's wave with one of her own.

Khitti said to Mesdoram, "And besides, Miss Blackwell should be less concerned about what might happen to the likes of you between your matches and moreso what might become of her when she steps outside of the confines of this arena or her castle, and her mother or I finally get our hands on her."

Quintessa might be trying really hard not to crack a smile right now. She doesn't want to make Khitt angry.

Valrae laughs at Lanara’s bald comments, nodding again. “We’d rock it.” She says definitely, even as she prays to whatever gods might be listening that she loses no more of her hair. She’d already spent the better part of a week crying about the length she’d lost in her last run in with fire. She pays little attention to Mes or the mess he was creating with others. She didn’t actually mind him all that much. Her innate distaste for drow seemed to have waned the more time she spent with them. As the match continues Valrae holds up her heart sign and cheers when appropriate, then settles back in with her beer.

Kasyr has been given a reason to bet on Mesdoram's opponent. Neat. That said, whilst the idea of winning a payoout by default's an entertaining prospect- it's not one he focuses on for long, given Inks directness in seeking his attention, or her attempts at strong-arming, "You know, the shoulder thing works better on people not wearing armoured trenchcoats, Madamoiselle. Et you might be careful about giving orders." And then he casually begins to fiddle in his coat for a smoke, heedless of whatever progress she might be making with the preklek plating and mithril mesh. Maybe he'll care more when his supply of dead preks runs out.

Mathollak can only shift the shaft of the piecemaker to his back to mitigate the damage caused by the gorilla slam to his back, and while it saves his back from breaking, he’s still knocked down into a pile of caramel. He rolls out of the way of a potential follow up, scraping and scooping up globs of sweet deliciousness away from his body as he does. His face and flesh are red and raw after doing so, but the pain he feels at having his epidermis stripped is more inspiration than hindrance. As he rises to a second assault, he whips the mass of caramel he pulled off himself out toward Nortengaal, blessing it with Delisha’s magic as he does. A black billowing smoke flecked with searing flames mixes with the caramel, heating it once more and causing it to expand like a sticky web. The damage it could do while it burns and sticks could be dangerous, but Mathollak wants to hinder his movements more than anything. Because the real attack was going to come from the Piecemaker, and following his caramel net, he brings the candy coated cutter in a diagonal arc toward Nortengaal’s side. He wants it to stick to him, then he can funnel Delisha’s ‘passion’ into Nortengaal’s body, spreading injury like wildfire through his body.

Iintahquohae doesn't particularly care if her shot at intimidation even works. Frankly she looks a little torn, and a little ridiculous with the way her vulpine ears decide to involuntarily swivel with all the noise around them. It's been a while since she's seen Kasyr, but with news gleaned from the new archmage prior to her departure from that guild, the seamstress can't decide if she's happy or furious. The reaction she's having now is, frankly, months late, but she's had plenty of time to let her anger stew and fester and who better to take it out on then someone who can recover from whatever she hurls at him later? Her hand doesn't leave Kasyr's shoulder as a result, but she gives up on trying to bend prek plate and mithril with her fingers alone. Fine, no orders, but she does ask a question that might be a low blow. Only to try riling him up. Again she goes for a whisper.

Nortengaal feels a deep satisfaction as his blow connects, a satisfaction that quickly wanes as his opponent rolls out of the way of a stomp that lands in the remainder of some of the caramel Math had connected with. While he tries to pull his boot free, he soon find himself nearly face to face with a candy web of dangerous design. Thinking quickly, he pulls his foot from his boot completely and drops backwards to avoid the net, mostly successfully as his skin is grazed by the concoction as it passes by, lines burning into the exposed skin of his upper chest and face. That avoided, he performs a kip-up, hopping back up to his feet with the intent to follow up with another blow - only to be met with a candy coated axe to the side. Big ouch. When it doesnt dig too deeply into him, Nort can feel something Bad is about to happen to him, and hoping to mitigate that a little he grabs the axe with both hands, a yellow, sparking glow quickly growing in intensity over them. A heartbeat of time passes, then a powerful electric current flows from Nort’s hands and down the axe, and hopefully into the blood knight on the other end.

Kasyr fingers snap together amidst Inks whispered words, the sole indication that she'd touched a button the vividness of the light, as he sears the end of his smoke off. He takes a moment to take in a long drag- savoring the flavour now that the burning of his lungs is a thing of the past, and then slowly turns his attention on the seamstress. That she means -Estbel- is lost to him, his mind flickering more towards the still-absent Satoshi, yet the result's similar enough, because while the Kensai manages a smile- it's that of a beast sizing up prey, "I think she knew better than to let her body get hi-jacked by necromancers, et possibly endangering everything she stood for." There's a pause, and then the Kensai leans slightly forward, his voice lowering just a drop, "Which es to say, had we -not- been able to pry Ernest loose, I would have killed him where he stood- instead of just subduing him, Cherie." Perhaps he might have deliberated before, hesitated- been stopped by Valrae. But that would have been him as the man, not as the vampire now staring at Inks. "But, suppose she was that -stupid-. I'd have understood the necessity. Because I -do- what's necessary." Here his head cants off towards the 'illustrious' countess presiding over the duels, "Which es the same reason her days are numbered." The moment it won't be a national incident.

Khitti || Khitt watched Iintahquohae and Kasyr out of the corner of his eye in between watching the match and drinking, a crimson brow raised. And then the revenant too made mention of whatever sort of demise might be waiting for Quintessa in the future, and the twilight witch couldn't help but smirk.

Kasyr said to Iintahquohae, "Though, maybe it was less, 'Where he stood' and more 'where he lay bleeding'."

Mathollak has been in this position before it seems to him. When he tried to redirect Quintessa’s electricity against her it didn’t work out so well, but maybe it will this time. As he continues to channel Delisha’s blessing into the Piecemaker, he wants to ensure Nortengaal’s commitment to his goal. Heralded by a bloom of smoke, gnarled spikes explode out of the shaft of the axe, which Mathollak hopes will perforate Nortengaal’s hands and pin them in place. And as the electricity courses through it, Mathollak lunges his grotesque claw toward the werebear, simply hoping to grasp some part of him as he completes the circuit, shocking them both and convincing Nortengaal to let go. But something distracts him: As the caramel cools into a slick and glossy surface, Sugar Mama comes skating down Candy Mountain on licorice limbs, intending to take the final bites out of both of them. But he’s frozen in place, his limbs clenched by the lightning coursing through them. Abruptly they convulse, and the bad mixture of Delisha’s energetic divine magic and Nortengaal’s electricity cause a mild explosion between them, sending Mathollak back several feet at least. But Mathollak has already made an enemy out of the candy dragon, and she snaps her jaws at him hoping to make an easy snack. He dives out of the way as the clinking chain, still wrapped around her neck, comes flowing after her chomp. He grabs it and pulls again, but this time its to help him mount her back. He yanks her neck close and when he pulls back, he holds on. The audacity! She instantly throws a tantrum as he lands rump first onto her delicious back. Mathollak’s only goal here is to direct the blind outrage toward Nortengaal, and he jerks her chain back toward him. She rises up on her hind legs, and then crashes back down with heavy candy claws intending to fling Mathollak over her head. But those heavy claws will land on the werebear if he isn’t mindful.

Leoxander was also aware of Iintahquohae’s arrival though he made it a point not to settle his gaze toward the pair for too long, but it was very likely he was eavesdropping on what he could catch of their quiet conversation without appearing obvious about it. Absently rubbing the side and back of his neck to ease some of the ache and tension of oversleeping, if not for the brawl in the pit he might have had a more difficult time fighting the urge to rest his eyes right where he sat.

Quintessa stares down at Kasyr, a tiny bit of anxiety creeping over her calm exterior, though it doesn’t last long. Her black brows furrow in thought and then she starts to scribble something down on a piece of parchment.

Valrae felt the fine, short hairs on the back of her neck stand on end. Anxiousness overtook her then, coming from some awareness prickling along her skin that turned the marrow of her bones to ice. She sat straighter in her seat, looking around the area for the cause. It didn’t take long for her dark eyes to find Kasyr and Iintahquohae together. Her lips bow into a pouting, confused frown. She almost moved to join them but hesitated, the cold beer in her hands nearly slipping from her grasp. Thinking better of it, she attempts to catch the Revenant’s eye with a small wave and half hearted smile before she turns her attention back onto the match.

Iintahquohae blinks at her sire's words. These were details that she wasn't made aware of at all, and while Kasyr sizes her up, she's doing the same. Sort of. How ridiculously uninformed she was from start to finish with that guild has her want to point her anger elsewhere, but... Dull brown eyes linger on Kasyr for a time. There's that torn feeling again. He's family in a way. Closer to her than most – arguably the closest person existing now, given her husband's predicament. She doesn't even bother to try snatching at his cigarette to snuff it out like she used to, and she just might have left it at that and let herself own up to her stupidity with an apology if it weren't for the notion that he might've killed Odhranos in the end. The words he says conjure up images in her mind that are enough to stoke her anger again. Now he's pressed her button, and she's in the mood to be reckless. And use her sire as some emotional punching bag. “Let's do something unnecessary then.” Casual Coterie family...bonding? The shift to something akin to a playful tone is stilted coming from the seamstress, but one can't simply lighten the mood from the death of a spouse to their in joke about Kasyr's never-ending jacket collection. “I'll replace your jacket?” Was the one he currently wore even something from her shop? "Can't have you running around in rags..."

Lanara has been engrossed with the match, but her intuition prickles and she finds her attention drawn to the lovely witch at her side. “You alright, Val?” Her words are but a whisper, meant solely for the blonde. Lana’s not convinced by that half-hearted smile that the fellow witch offers to someone in the crowd, but she doesn’t want to pry.

Valrae fixes another smile on her lips, this time for Lanara. There was gratitude there this time, and she reached out to pat the other woman’s hand gently. The other witch had always had a strong intuition for other’s emotions, even if that ability was stronger with animal friends, and Val felt sorry for worrying her. “I think so-” She had begun to reply, just as Math seemed to mount the candy dragon, and a shocked gasp stole the rest of whatever she might have been saying. She cheers loudly, even as he goes flying again. “That was impressive!” She chirps to Lanara, laughing.

Kasyr probably should be paying attention to the tourney, or even the hostess' actions, but the emotions roiling inside the seamtress demand precedence, if only because despite her naivete- she's still dangerous. Partly because of his awareness of what she is, what resides in her- but also the less quantifiable changes. He can't be certain if they're related to the same shift in his ex-wife, which had fed a certain latent anger issue, or if it was a seperate 'beast' entirely. What he -is- certain of, is the simple fact that her outright sense of indignation at him has given way to confusion, though the appetite for violence still seems there. It's why his initial response to her question is along the lines of a very suspicious, "Uh-huh.", if only because he's fairly sure what's going to ensue. "You were going to replace it, anyways, but if you insist, madamoiselle. But you might want to wait until a bit of space clears out." There's a pause here, before the swordsman finally asks the question, "So, what exactly -did- Lanlan tell you? I'm curious- since he's been doing his best to earn my attention, lately." Valrae had been so 'proud' of him, too.

Quintessa folds up the parchment and hands it to an attentendant, whispering an order to them. The attendant enters the crowd, meandering to the area Kasyr stood. “Mr. Azakhaer? A message for you..” The attendant holds out the parchment for the kensai to take. If he does, the message contained within simply reads “Rhew” scribbled in common.

Nortengaal was in fact quite dedicated to this course of action, and readily accepts the damage to his hands as theyre pierced by the spikes. Unnecessary really, considering he wasnt planning on letting go anyways. As Mathollak completes the circuit, Nort laughs as the electricity flows through the two fighters faster and faster, clearly unperturbed by it. The other man’s divine magics however are starting to wreak havoc, as the wounds on hands are joined by new/old ones, and old wounds on his torso start to weep underneath his vest. Luckily, the werebear is saved further harm by the small explosion of energies between them, and he’s blown back a good distance to land on his back, smoking slightly as the divine magics leave his body. He takes a few moments to catch his breath with his eyes closed, and in those moments the blood knights goes on his wild ride. The dragon’s tantrum roar snaps eyes back open, and he rolls to the side out of the way of the beasts claws, just barely avoiding them as they pound the ground around the bearman. Rolling to his feet, he crouches beneath the dragon, and moves with it, staying out of the way of way while remaining underneath its midsection. A black aura surrounds his body, his muscles bulging a bit as he augments them with magic to increase their strength and explosive power. Nort waits patiently for his moment to strike, and soon the dragon gives him one as it rears up in another roar. He leaps upwards, driving his fist up in a powerful uppercut blow to the beasts midsection, hoping to knock it over backwards onto its current rider, before landing in a bit of a heap, having expended a great deal of energy.

Lanara fixes a smile on her fair face and is relieved to hear that Valrae is alright. “I’m glad.” Still, her gaze lingers on the woman’s features when she turns to see Mathollak mount the licorice dragon. Lana’s always been in tune with the emotions of beasts, true, but she can also sense when something is greatly amiss. Especially in those that she considers dear to her heart, or those that have magical ties similar to her own. Something had struck her intuition and that nagging itch at the base of her neck continues to needle her, although she cannot discern what’s causing it to spike. '

Iintahquohae doesn't wait for Kas to respond as she hunches over into a slouch beside him, forgoing her usual, semi-stoic rigidity for a posture she'd permit herself to take behind closed doors. She's lost in thought now, thumb and forefinger of her right dye-stained hand slowly turning the wedding band on her left ring finger. She's aware eyes are on her and her sire, likely more on him rather than her, but the seamstress makes little effort to lift her gaze and acknowledge whoever happens to be peeking. Reflection should come later, but when did things ever happen in a timely manner, really? The thoughts are interrupted once Kasyr speaks again. She nods. “ 'Course, after this is done. ...Now with that tree fixed and this,” she tugs down the grey collar of her button-up, revealing the distinct lack of black scales there. Seems Sacred's mark slithered back to its hiding place behind her human ear, the black serpent coiled in on itself and dormant once more. Or behind where her human wears -were-. Did she even have those with the fox ears on her head now? “...I can actually be...” Useful? Competent? Competent is doubtful, but brutish – absolutely. Save finesse for making clothes and crafting jewelry. “He said you and Karasu beat up his body, didn't give details.”

Kasyr -shouldn't- accept a random message from the attendant, but- considering he doesn't feel anything malign coming off of it- he let's his curiosity take precedence. Which leaves him squinting at it for a few long moments, before he finally leans back, rolls his eyes and lets out a puff of air that is simultaneously exasperated and amused.

Mathollak hoped to trample Nortengaal under Sugar Mama’s limbs, but the werebear is able to be in a safe place after every step. Mathollak’s eager for something to happen, and then it does. When Sugar Mama rears up again on her hind legs, Mathollak peeks over her shoulder, trying to decide if he needs to guide her in another direction. That’s when he sees Nortengaal winding up a power punch. She suffers a heavy, forceful blow. When her balance shifts back, she tries desperately to regain it, stepping backward, attempting to twist so that she could still lean on her feat. Her wings flap in the air and her tail muscles against the ground, but…then her claws slip. It’s clear she’s not going to remain upright. What’s a blood knight to do? In a daring bid to avoid being flattened under the dragon, he attempts to remain on the top of her, whatever that is at the time. He clambers from her back to her shoulder, and then dives off the front of her. It’ll be a long way down to the ground, but maybe Nortengaal can cushion his fall.

After Duel/Wrap-up

Quintessa said, "My my, what a sticky mess this duel has been… While we give our judges a moment to think about it, how about we all give our contestants a round of applause. And someone wrangle that dragon…"

Reginae || Mathollak’s fan group lets out a collective screech of panic as he climbs his way around the tumbling Sugar Mama. The chosen caramel woman faints. Several of the men start pillaging flammable objects from the crowd and chanting his name, object alight and waving to and fro like torches at a concert. Several women are throwing articles of clothing into the arena in support.

Valrae cheers and waves her heart sign, anxiously awaiting the announcement for who the winner might be. She nearly chokes with laughter as women’s undergarments start flying toward the arena.

Daisy finally finds her way to the noise and popcorn and omg so noisy. But she is small and fights are more interesting. Definitely more interesting than kittens with dirt on their faces. Big eyes look and look and look for anyone who might be anyone who might be remembering who she is and finally there is spotted right there! Right there with a face and ears and... new ears? But a face! A sad face but a remembered face. Little legs dart through the crowd and there is no asking. There are no words, only smiles. smiles bringing that little bit of light that might be remembered if she thinks real hard about tea and the ocean. Kasyr is given a smile and a little wave, but it is Iintahquohae's lap that is climbed onto. Noses meet and two eyes become one on both faces. There are hugs to be had, my dear friends. Daisy takes what she wants.

Quintessa said, "The judges have decided!"

Quintessa said, "The winner of this match- and Sugar Mama’s heart is…. Mathollak! Congratulations to the Axe of Love and commiserations to Nortengaal… Mathollak, finish him."

Kasyr gets a weird sense of Deja-vu when the seamstress mentions this, but, it slips away just as quickly- replaced instead by a studious look. It's still there- there's that sickly familiar presence lingering to her, but it is diminished. One less thing to worry about in the immediate moment, then. "We'll figure that one out soon, then. I owe a few individuals some long overdue meetings. Speaking of which-" It's here that the Kensai cups his hands around his mouth, leans right past Inks, and casually calls over to Khitti, "Hey, Khitt- Got a moment, monsieur? I'm going to be addressing something in a moment, and would appreciate you coming along." And then his head tilts back over towards Inks, "If you're doing this- you might want to throw the first punch." A beat, "And make it count."

Kasyr said to Daisy, "...Er, hi, again. " Obviously, he'll offer a moment for the two to reacquaint, before Inks' face gets rearranged, "Fancy seeing you here."

Iintahquohae ;; The seamstress is experiencing all sorts of emotional whiplash today. First fury, then doubt and confusion, back to anger, sadness, and now joy. Absolute joy at the sight and scent of the feline that climbs into her lap and embraces her. “D-Daisy...?” Well, hopefully Kasyr isn't too bothered by their new seat buddy because Daisy is getting the tightest hug a vampire can give without crushing someone. She knew Inks as a human, and their paths crossed after her siring too, didn't they? So much tea and stories shared. This gal was by far her favorite tea-drinking companion, excluding Odhranos. The thought has her expression turn solemn for a moment, knowing with certainty that the late terramancer would have adored this tangible ball of sunshine and she just holds on. In a rare show of any sort of affection on the seamstress's part, she bonks her nose against Daisy's and flashes a fanged grin. There aren't enough words to encapsulate this odd tug at her heartstrings – at the past, and she peers over at Kasyr over Daisy's head. They're still doing Coterie Things after this but...Maybe after they fight it out they can hug it out too. Seems appropriate. She nods at his suggestion about punching first, but not yet. Not with someone so precious in her lap.

Lefty lifts the gorgon's finger to scratch at her brow ridge, the eyes close and the sunglasses are returned to the pocket. The gorgon examines a bit of dirt and scabby bits, flicks it all away along with a small glowing ember. The gorgon sags as the necromantic energies leave her. The ember, however, lands exactly where it was supposed to. . .and Lefty is happy.

Valrae cheers loudly as the winner is announced, waving her sign madly. When her excitement settles, she doesn’t wait to see the final blows. Instead, she says her goodbyes to Lanara, Leo and anyone else near enough. For the rest she offers a wave before slipping out, her guards trailing after her.

Leoxander trailed the little gold-haired feline creature as it ran passed aiming for Iintahquohae before he stood with flask returned to back pocket and his arms folding over his chest in a neutral stance, waiting to see who would get the upper hand in the candy arena to finish the fight. No real change of expression as the answer revealed itself and the announcement came, his expression stoic even as he looked back toward the wolves, witches and vampire that had chosen their seat nearby, "Who wan's to pick up the rug off the floor?"

Khitti || Khitt cheered for Mathollak's win, but when Kasyr called to him, he just blinked at him a few times. "Yeah sure," he said at length, handing over the rest of his whiskey to Meri. The redhead stood and brushed off his suit, adjusted his tie, then moved from his seat to where Kasyr and Iintahquohae were seated..

Lanara gives Valrae a parting hug, before she says goodbye to the others. It's getting late, so she makes the journey home so that Tiber doesn't worry.

Leoxander should fix that he trailed Daisy with his eyes. Not following her literally.

Mathollak tumbles through the air after vaulting from Sugar Mama, and with Nortengaal spent as he was after putting so much into that punch, he’s unable to avoid Mathollak. This time. Mathollak crashes into the heap of werebear mass, and before Nort can react, he grabs the front of his head with his grostequely clawed hand, lifts it off the ground, and slams it back down. When he doesn’t move after that, Mathollak raises his hand in victory.

Quintessa gave 5000 gold to Mathollak.

Quintessa gave 5000 gold to Nortengaal.

Daisy is exactly who she is even if Inky isn't exactly who she used to be. That is okay though. Hearts are hearts and hearts beat for all the reasons they are supposed to. Unless they don't, but those are stories for another time. Not this time! This time is for friends from a that long ago time. She shifts in the hug so noses release and cheeks meet. Happy faces! Kasyr receives another little finger wave. "I needed her." Even though Daisy never knows what she needs until it is there for her to take. And probably maybe Inky needed Daisy too. But no one is saying that out loud. It is okay. Hearts and all that. She looks back to Inky for purring and squeezes. "You have to go, yes?"

Leoxander gave 5000 gold to Nortengaal.

Kasyr is careful to let out a breath of smoke away from Daisy, the cigarette currently balanced between his fingers, "I don't mind. It's been a while. I wouldn't mind catching up myself. Just, not quite now." There's a certain good humour in what he says, genuine in nature- and yet it can't conceal that simple appetite for violence that's been stirred up, that thread which seems to run through everyone in his house. A reckless bloodthirst that can be hard to quell once it's finally allowed to slip to the surface, "So~."

Iintahquohae lets go of Daisy only so she can start piling her mass of grey curls into some messy knot on top of her head so they're less of a hindrance to her before it's time to take that first hit. Of course, Daisy is more than welcome to remain perched on her lap, or wherever she wishes to be. The seamstress is also waiting for the arena to clear out a bit, because as Kas might expect, she fully intends on dragging him into the ring and that sugary candy mess down there if it hasn't been cleaned up between now and then. With reluctance, she nods slowly to Daisy but gives her another tight hug. Inks absolutely needed Daisy. She's an anchor, a person from the past that reminded her of much gentler times.“Yes, but we have to catch up. Soon. Tea? Mallard's moved, but there's a place in Cenril called Ginger Snapped and you'd love it.” With an overabundance of care, she lifts Daisy from her lap and sets her gently down on the seat right beside her, then waits for Kas to finish up. ...Gotta be polite about fighting your sire over something that you thought went one way but actually went another way, right? “Hey Khitt,” she greets, then casts a sidelong glance at Daisy. “If you or Khitti ever see this darling at your place, I'll pay for whatever she wants.” ...Do bakeries even run tabs for people? They should if they don't. Shoving her hands in the pockets of her jacket, she does find some gold in there if Khitt wants cash upfront. Back to Kasyr, now. "You done?"

Kasyr said to Iintahquohae, "Says the one who I've been waiting on. Next time, I'm just sucker punching you."

Khitti gave both Inks and Daisy his usual half-assed salute in greeting. "Of course, I'll let everyone at the bakery know."

Valrae had been leaving. Really, she had. But something stopped her. It was that tingling sense of awareness that had no name running along the edge of her spine. So, she had her driver turn the carriage around before they’d made it very far and then carted herself and her guards back into Dark Arena. She didn’t really know why or what she was looking for. But she saw Khitt was still there, so the witch made her way toward him and broke her own rules by grabbing another beer as she went. “Uh, hey.” She says awkwardly, “Whats… Goin’ on?”

Nortengaal lies on the ground, unmoving amongst the still cooling caramel and various debris that litters the arena. After a bit of time, not terribly long but long enough that the healers have come over to check on him, he wakes with a start - and a pounding headache. Looking around to see if it’s been taken down yet, Nort will take a few steps over the candy mountain and break off a few pieces to snack on as the healers do their work, before making his way out of the arena and off to the nearby tavern for some drinks. Perhaps not the best choice after the ending blow rattled his brain case a bit, but its the choice he’s going to make.