the tournament herald
A ceremonial delay is declared. The appointed champions will settle their dispute before the compact permits the contest to begin.
The Starsan champion lowers his axe, while the Filinist rider keeps his blade sheathed. Officials enter the circle, conferring beneath the watchful banners as murmurs ripple through the stands.
Elieren leaves the royal gallery and meets Damakos at the side passage overlooking the arena. Paladin Sola remains near the circle’s boundary, guarding the approach without intruding.
Elieren Gulres
The amended ledger now protects you in public terms. You may answer questions, compete, or withdraw without granting the council an oath, office, allegiance, or authority over your path.
Below, the officials separate the champions and inspect their equipment. The crowd watches impatiently, while scribes preserve every delay and ruling beneath the ancient compact.
Elieren Gulres
That protection matters, but it cannot decide what you seek from the remaining contests. Victory can be a title, a message, a safeguard, or simply passage toward the danger beneath this arena.
Elieren Gulres
What kind of victory do you want, Damakos? I will help preserve its meaning, provided it remains yours to define.