All of the Kingdom was decorated with streamers and shells. There were bubbles lining the streets, painted pictures of the ocean, statues of corals and fake palms. Along with fish. Many, many fish. Everything had been transformed as well as it could have been to mimic the homeland of the Aquaians - a race of people who were half crab, half fish, and as intelligent as humans. They had two or four legs, all plated in tough exoskeleton, and wide heads with far apart eyes. Many had two arms, some had four, and all had bulky bodies that were much taller and wider than people. Their plated sharp skin looked like layered armor, and the mouths were almost invisible hidden in their heads. They didn't have hands, so much as claws, and Reicket distinctly didn't like them at all.

"I do not care if they are smelly, and look scary, and talk like someone with mouth full of food-"

"I didn't say that part." Reicket interrupted.

"You will be civil, and presentable, and bow to them because today is to honor them, and to officiate their new status as a recognized nation." Gilsa finished. He tightened the buckle on his shoulder guard, tugging on it strongly one last time.

"They aren't even people. I don't understand why Siegfried would do anything with them. They're fish, who cares what fish think." Reicket crossed his arms, not bothering to get ready more than he already was.

"His Highness, King Siegfried does, and that is what matters. The Aquains' kingdom is even older than ours, and they are just as intelligent, just as combat capable, and willing to trade. There's no reason to disparage them if they're willing to become our allies. And you will not do so in front of anyone, understand?" Gilsa urged seriously. "If you do, I will see to your punishment personally, Reicket. Today is very important for Siegfried since this is his first meeting with foregin diplomats and his first time overseeing the tourney. You will not embarrass him by spouting off about your own personal feelings."

"How could I embarrass him, I won't even be near any gross crab people for them to hear." Reicket pouted, sitting down heavily on the bench.

Immediately after he spoke the door was opened, making Reicket jump at having been caught, and Gilsa bristled at him not listening - until both saw it was Siegfried who stepped into the locker room. Siegfried quickly shut the door behind himself, and pressed his back against it in order to keep it shut.

His breath eeked out in a whine, and he hit his head against the door for relief. "I can't do this."

"See, Siegfried doesn't even want to." Reicket said proudly, crossing his arms.

Gilsa glared at him, and walked over to Siegfried. "Your Highness-"

"The royal Aquains are arriving right now. What am I supposed to talk to them about? What if they ask about why I accepted their resolution just now? What if they ask about why my father never accepted them? What if-"

"Siegfried." Gilsa interrupted, smiling, "Why did you accept the Aquains as an official nation?"

"Because they are - they're history is well documented, their population and cities are greater than ours, they're scholars-"

"And, King Siegfried, why did your father never accept them?"

"I don't know!" Siegfried gasped, "That was - years and years ago, and I-"

"What are we doing today?" Gilsa continued, strutting over to the wall of weapons and taking down a sword.

"It's the tourney to welcome them."

"Then speak to them about the tourney." Gilsa concluded. "You will be wonderful, my King. You aren't capable of offending the Aquains because at your core you are a kind man. Unlike Reicket, you also have manners, etiquette, and have seen these tourneys before. I am certain you will do wonderful."

Siegfried let out a breath, trying to relax. "You're right, you are it's just - this will set a precedent for the future, the next time dignitaries come to Crystalandia."

"Do not worry, if anything happens, it won't be as bad as whatever Reicket is planning on doing." Gilsa set him a challenging glare. "Losing, most likely."

"Excuse me! I've been practicing. I'm going to wipe the floor with you, soldierboy." Reicket responded, grabbing the Green Sword proudly. "You aren't going to stand a chance against me."

Siegfried let out a quiet chuckle. "Thanks you two. I'll definitely be watching your fight and cheering you on."

"Cheering me on, right, White Knight?" Reicket nudged him in the side.

Siegfried pushed him aside. "Cheering you both on." His shoulders relaxed and he lifted his head slightly. "Alright. I'm going to welcome the Aquain leaders. You two will be ready for the entrance of the official party?"

"The what?" Reicket asked, blinking in confusion.

Gilsa patted him on the shoulder. "We'll be ready."

"Thank you Gilsa. Good luck in your fight." Siegfried smiled, waving to the both of them as he left the room.

"What about my good luck!" Reicket shouted back in a laugh.

"Come on, I'll show you the path we're supposed to walk when they sound the trumpets." Gilsa stepped out of the door, pointing his thumb down the opposite way Siegfried had left, toward the stadium. "All you have to do is follow me, kneel, stand up, and then leave until our fight is called."

Reicket followed him, looking at the decorated yet bland halls. "When they sound the trumpets is when Siegfried comes out to take his seat right? That's really all I have to do?"

Gilsa nodded, making a left turn. "Yes. And remember your right knee hits the ground - everyone is supposed to go down at the same time on the same knee."

"How will I know when to kneel?"

"Siegfried will tell you to 'bow'." Gilsa responded.

A door opened in front of them as they were walking down the hall, and quickly shut and locked. The person who closed the door was wearing a dark red cloak with the hood pulled up over their head. Before Reicket or Gilsa could react the figure turned to them.

"Hey! You're Siegfried's friends." The person pulled their hood off, long curling hair spilling down, and bright friendly eyes smiling at them. "Is he nearby? I wanted to surprise him."

Gilsa bowed his head immediately, Reicket glancing at him and hurrying to follow.

"Good morning, Princess Daphne. We are humbled to be in your presence."

She rolled her eyes, and waved her hand lazily, "Yes, yes, good morning, you may rise, all that stuffiness. So? Have you seen him? I didn't tell him I was coming and I don't want to blow my cover."

"Siegfried went outside to meet the fish people." Reicket responded, standing up. "Hi Princess." He waved.

"Great. And, call me Daphne, um - Ricky?" She guessed.

"Reicket. And I am Gilsa, your Holiness. We'd be happy to escort you-"

"No, no. Pretend like you never saw me. But thank you, good luck in your match Reicket. And remember, I was never here." Daphne held a finger to her lips, stepping around the two of them and hastily leaving the hall.

"Ha, the princess wished me good luck." Reicket bragged, beaming. "That means there's no way you could beat me."

Gilsa rolled his eyes. "Just pay attention stablehand."

----------------------------------------

Siegfried quickly hid around the corner, glancing back to make sure that Reicket and Gilsa had both left the locker room before he ran back inside. There were only a few selected knights who were fighting in the tourney; one from foregin kingdoms who he invited to Crystalandia, two vagabonds, and of course the Rainbow Knights. This tourney was small, and supposed to finish before he and the Aquains had to sign the treaty, it wasn't very official and wasn't the yearly test of strength. There wasn't even a prize. Traditionally, the King would be the judge in smaller tourneys, he would never participate because he'd have to judge his own fight. But.

But Siegfried wanted to know. No, he had to know, even among this random and rag-tag group of combatants, where he stood. How much power he had, how well he could fight as King of Crystalandia, and the White Knight. He had been training everyday, he'd spent so much time devoting himself to the way of the sword, and getting stronger - but how could he tell? How could he really know?

Today he could. Siegfried opened the door to the locker room and checked that the helmet and armor were left behind. Reicket seemed too proud to use armor, and Gilsa preferred wearing only sparse parts, but to hide himself Siegfried needed the full heavy armor. The chest plate, the helmet, the greaves - he'd had it all sent here in advance and just needed to be sure it had stayed.

Siegfried closed the door, seeing that neither of them took any of the parts, and started actually going to where the Aquains were supposed to be waiting. He hurried down the halls as best he could in this terribly suffocating outfit. He had an undershirt, a shirt, a doublet, a vest, and a coat, along with stockings, shirt stays, fancy socks, and pants, all tucked into incredibly well shined boots and tied up with too many bows and buckles and buttons. Siegfried was looking forward so much to change into that weighty heavy armor.

He finally reached the door which led to the front of the tourney house, and put on his happiest smiling face, then pushed open the door. There were three Aquains waiting there, supported by Green Squadron, and when he entered all of them saluted. Siegfried returned it, and kept walking forward.

"Greetings! Let me extend my warmest welcomes to Crystalandia - my Kingdom."

The tallest and largest of the Aquains, one who looked like a crab with a rotund torso and four legs turned to him. His eyes were shining and black, at the far far edges of his head, and they swiveled to see Siegfried.

"We greet you, King Siegfried." The Aquain lowered its massive clawed arms to the floor. "I am Consul Gax, the Senior Consul of Aquinnius."

"I am Consul Pyn, the Junior Consul of Aquinnius. This is my daughter, Yuglh." The one who spoke was smaller, with only two arms and legs, more round than head than flat, and covered in far more spikes than the other.

Yuglh almost looked human. She also dipped her hands toward the floor when her name was called. She had a round head and visible mouth, but no nose. Her body had almost no exoskeleton, with a few noticeable pieces around her chest and thighs, upper arms, and the top of her head. "Hello."

"It is a pleasure to finally see you in person. I hope the journey was not too difficult for you all." Siegfried idly commented, glancing at the clock high up in the square. He had to enter at the right time, afterall.

"Not difficult. Almost an adventure. We Aquains have never been invited outside of our own Kingdom, and seeing the surface as we traveled with Green Squadron was very entertaining." Consul Gax explained. "It is incredibly kind and wise of you, to open your Kingdom to us in friendship, as you have."

"Thank you." Siegried replied, hoping his make-up hid his blush. "I could think of nothing more appropriate for my first action as King." Siegfried tried to keep his smile small, and professional, but cleared his throat when that failed. "Now then, let me lead you to the arena. That is where the tourney will take place."

"This building is dedicated to such an event?" Consul Pyn wondered, his large head spinning as he looked around at the banners and architecture.

"Yes. We tend to hold them quite often. It's a fun show for people to watch, and has a prize for the winner so many enjoy entering as well."

"This violence is common then?" Consul Pyn asked, in an inoffensive and curious way.

"Oh, um…" Siegfried thought, trying to find something to say which wasn't a straight yes. "It's more of a showcase of power, and honor. There's fighting, yes, but it is only to the first wound, and no one has been severely hurt since - well as long as I can remember. I'd say the tourney is meant more a competition like a race, to just see who's improved and practiced the most since last year. I can… see how that sounds strange, but you'll see shortly."

Consul Pyn didn't ask another question, and after a moment of Consul Gax being silent, Siegfried turned around anxiously and started walking down the hall. He hated having to walk in front of them, because he couldn't see their expressions to judge their reactions, but with both of them being so… crustacean like, Siegfried quickly realized it wouldn't matter. That made him no less nervous for entering beside the three of them.

After a flight of stairs they came to the door which led outside to the seating for the tourney. The two guards beside it bowed as they opened the door, letting in loud noises from outside and a breeze of warm air. Siegfried stepped to the side and gestured for the Aquaians to step forward. Politely the three of them entered the outdoor seating, accompanied by a chorus of cheers and the hooting of horns.

Siegfried followed them, and was incredibly thankful that the cheering didn't get louder and offend them. As he stepped out he swept his eyes across the wide circular audience, and then the arena below. There were streamers, banners, noise makers, and large cheering. With the sun high in the sky, it seemed like the perfect day for a tourney, and to test his skill.

"Don't you look happy today!"

Sieigfried swung his head around in surprise, and saw that Daphne was standing in front of the seats beside the Aquains.

She smiled at him, then curtsied to the diplomatic guests. "An honor to meet you all. I am Princess Daphne, Siegfried's older sister. Thank you for accepting my brother's invitation."

"King Siegfried?" Consol Gex questioned, turning to him.

"Ah yes! Daphne!" Siegfried happily greeted, "She's my older sister, and the Princess of Crystalandia. I - I didn't expect you here, what a pleasant surprise!"

Daphne walked over to him and wrapped him in a hug, patting him on the back. "So proud of you, arranging all this. Want to invite us to take our seats?" She reminded, glancing over her shoulder at the waiting ambassadors.

"Oh." Siegfried pulled apart and stepped forward. "Yes, please, please, sit."

Sigefried gestured at the large and cushioned benches which were set out for them. Siegfried wanted them to all have the same seating, on the same level, so there were only the fine wooden benches for them. Along with the set plates of fish and food, the extra blankets, and the extra cushions. There were cuts of ivy decorating the booth, along with strings of gems.

As the three of them moved to sit, Daphne stepped forward to stand next to Siegfried. She nodded at him to start, but Siegfried moved first. Stepping up to the edge of the balcony, Siegfried raised a hand. The crowd of the tourney fell completely silent.

"My people; friends, fellows, visitors, and all honored guests - welcome to the Tourney of Peal Kingdom!" Siegfried raised his arms in a grand gesture, and the cheering resumed for a moment, the loud crowd roaring in anticipation. "Please, bow, and welcome our new and great allies - the Aquains! Counsol Gex, and Consul Pyn!"

Siegfried stepped aside, holding one hand to the side, presenting the sitting dignitaries to all who actually cared to look and listen. For a moment he was stuck with the memory of never knowing who his father had introduced in the same way. He only recalled the grand fights. After a moment, he turned back to the crowd, taking a deep breath as he placed both hands on the railing of the balcony. He was nervous, but it was a pleasant type of nervousness. There was no mistake he could make at this point, he was leading, he was already in the middle of talking, of having hundreds of eyes on him, and even if he said something wrong or gave a wrong look it would not interrupt him. Not now. Perhaps later, but not now, and so he wasn't nervous.

"The Aquains from Peal Kingdom have lived beside us in these lands for many years, and today we celebrate our acknowledging them as a free nation, a true ally of crystalandia. We will honor them, and welcome them as friends, share in their knowledge and victories, and assure that neither of us will have defeats due to our strong alliance. We cement this friendship with this tournament, and now, without further ado rise and let us begin!"

Siegfried hadn't planned on pausing, but before he could continue the stadium leapt to their feet with a roar of excitement. Their shouting and whooping drowned out all other sound for a moment, vibrating the air itself with cheer. Clapping, stomping, yawping without care, Siegfried felt as if for a moment it was all just for him. He took a breath, letting the moment pass, and raised his hand once again for quiet.

"Our tourney today was open to all men, and we have six honorable contestants. The Black Knight from Crystalandia; the White Knight from Pegasus Kingdom; Mr. Lupis of the Wolf-Man Tribe, Mister Victor from the North; and the first battle shall be between our two legendary Rainbow Knights themselves - Gilsa Ducere and Reicket Volo!" Siegfried paused for the applause, then quickly continued speaking. " Gentlemen, please, take your place, and prepare for the sounding of the horn."

Siegfried let out a long and quiet breath as he finished, his chest and stomach humming with nervousness. He stepped back away from the edge of the balcony, and as he did it felt like withdrawing from an entire world, the sounds of celebration less focused and more quiet. Siegfried turned around and walked back to his seat beside his sister.

She smiled and gave him two thumbs up. "Good job, King Siegfried."

Siegfried blushed and let out a nervous laugh, sliding into his seat. "T-Thanks."

"A very touching speech." Consul Gex gratefully lauded, his voice rumbling.

"Next shall be the fighting?" Consul Pyn asked eagerly, drawing a curious head turn from Gex.

Siegfried nodded. He was already waiting and watching eagerly. "It'll end when Reicket or Gilsa forfeits, or scores one direct hit on the other."

Now that his introduction had ended, the rest of the day was ceremony, all monitored by the master of ceremonies, and probably Gilsa as well. As he sat down he heard the trumpets sound, signaling Gilsa and Reicket to walk out into the area below. Both managed to do so respectfully, and Siegfried was thankful that Gilsa had explained everything to Reicket.

Gilsa moved to the right as Reicket moved to the left, both of them counting their steps carefully. They positioned themselves directly across from each other, an equal distance away from the center of the area and paused for the trumpets to signal the start.

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Reicket let out a long breath to ease his nerves. He'd never been watched by so many people before. He knew his parents were watching, and hoped they were. Siegfried was watching him as well, and Gilsa too. This was Reicket's fair fight against Gilsa. His first one, maybe, and it was going to be grand, but he was incredibly nervous.

His palms were already sweating. His heart was beating, and he kept breathing slowly but his blood was pounding impossibly quickly. Reicket knew his fingers were gripping his sword too tightly, so tightly they were almost numb, but he couldn't loosen them. He wanted to be nervous. He wanted to be on high alert, and he wanted to be afraid of failure. It would all bring him that closer to winning.

Except Reicket wasn't sure how to win. Gilsa probably did. He had experience and skill, and technique on his side. Reicket only had the lessons Gilsa had given him, and guts. Reicket still knew that if Gilsa moved, he would have to, and if he moved Gilsa would have to.

So Reicket moved first. He raised his sword along his shoulder and ran at Gilsa, Gilsa racing forward in response with his sword back along his arm. Reicket struck out with his sword in a downward chop toward Gilsa hands, since Gilsa was so much taller he had to disarm him.

Except Gilsa caught the cut on the side of his sword near the crossguard, and Gilsa stepped aside as he thrust his blade out straight, piercing it straight toward Reickt's chest. Reicket ran backward, bringing his sword out straight as well, knocking both of them together and sending both outside. The crowd gasped and awed at the brief cross, but nothing had been gained. Both ended up across from each other again.

Reicket let out quick deep breaths, his eyes darting between Gilsa's feet and his hands. He knew Gilsa would keep trying to block him with his sword. That gave him a longer reach, a lot longer than Reicket's, and having an advantage on distance was something Gilsa had always emphasized. Distance wasn't Reicket's ally, so he had to close it.

Suddenly Gilsa charged forward. He closed the ground between them in a rush, his sword coming around from the side, and Reicket hurried to lift his blade against it. Reicket barely caught the sword against his, and the reverberation of the strike rocked through his arms. He grit his teeth, taking the painful shakes, and now that he was close to Gilsa he wouldn't lose his chance.

Before Gilsa could move away Reicket brought his leg up and slammed his foot into Gilsa's shin, kicking it as powerfully as he could. Gilsa shouted from the pain, the noise immediately drowned out by the roar of the crowd, and Gilsa fell to a knee.

Reicket felt his chest swell at the opportunity. He could see Gilsa fall almost in slow motion, felt his sword unlock from his, and Reicket rose his blade higher over his shoulder. Reicket watched as Gilsa's eyes widened, seeing Reicket's blade race toward his open back, and Reicket felt a glow of pride at having won so quickly, so skillfully.

Then, just before the blade came down along Gilsa's back, Gilsa swapped his blade to his left hand. Gilsa reached out with his right hand, the one closest to Reickt's strike, and grabbed the top of the blade with his heavy gloved hand, and pushed away the attack. Reicket gasped in hatred at having his sword grabbed and his balance had gone into the strike, he was being turned away from his own momentum being pushed aside.

Gilsa stayed on the ground where he was, and now with his sword in his left hand struck upward at Reicket's chest, piercing into Reicket's leathers and cutting into as deep as the dull blade could.

"No!" Reicket cried, feeling the stab keenly against his clothes, and hating that his sure victory was so quickly defeated. He felt Gilsa let go of his sword, and if the victorious trumpets and cheering of the crowd wasn't there, he just might have tried hitting Gilsa over the head again.

Gilsa smiled, finally getting to his feet and holding his sword properly again. "Good fight."

"Good fight, you never showed me that!" Reciket complained in a groan, pressing a stupid hand to his forehead. "I was certain I had you there. Can't believe it."

Gilsa smiled a bit wider. "You almost did, if you were a bit quicker, or a bit more to the right."

Gilsa held his hand out toward Reicket, and Reicket hated that he lost like that, but he knew that it was expected of him to at least behave until they walked off the field. Reicket grumbled under his breath, which made Gilsa chuckle quietly, and both of them clasped hands.

"Good fight?" Gilsa repeated again.

"I want a re-match." Reicket grumbled, thinking about how he was so close to winning, and he could see it now, if he'd tried to get around behind Gilsa while he brought the sword down.

"Good." Gilsa congratulated, slapping him on the shoulder before raising both of their hands in the air. "I want to beat you in a single strike next time."

"You wish!" Reicket shouted, dropping their hands. "I'm not even gonna let you rush me."

Gilsa tilted his head toward the exit tunnel. "Sure. Come on, let's go to the Royal Box before the next fight."

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Gilsa and Reicket were announced as they stepped into the reserved seats for the ambassadors and the Royal family. Siegfried was there to greet them immediately, and gave both of them a hug in greeting.

"That was wonderful you two! Very impressive to watch." Siegfried congratulated.

"It'll be more impressive next time, when I beat him." Reicket bragged, glaring at Gilsa friendly.

"I am happy it entertained you, your Highness." Gilsa bowed slightly as he spoke, and he pointly changed his gaze to behind Siegfried.

Siegfried seemed to get the message and quickly ushered his two Knights toward the benches. "Please, allow me to personally introduce my two knights: Gilsa Ducere, and Reicket Volo, the Green Knight. Gilsa, Reicket, This is Counsel Pyn, and this is Council Gex of the Aquain Kingdom. This is Counsel Pyn's daughter, Yuglh."

Gilsa looked at Reicket, and then bowed deeply. Thankfully Reicket has enough sense to remember to copy him. "It is a great pleasure to meet you all."

"Yes, it is a great pleasure to meet you." Reicket repeated, rising slowly, until he saw Gilsa do so, and then he stood up straight. He made sure to keep his mouth shut, but he couldn't stop staring at the crab people.

"Your battle, it was something very unusual for us to see. Did you enjoy it?" Counsel Pyn asked, his eyes looking to both of them at once.

"Yes, your Majesty. It is a sporting event, between friends, and very enjoyable. Right, Reicket?"

"Yes." Reicket agreed, because agreeing with Gilsa right now would not ruin anything.

This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author's consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.

"Very good." Counsel Pyn replied.

"Princess, Daphne, greetings, your Holiness." Gilsa said, dipping his head toward her.

"Hello again boys." Daphne replied, waving. "Would you like to come and sit?" She offered, gesturing to the empty bench.

Gilsa smiled, and tried not to blush. "I thank you very much for the offer, I'd be glad to sit down to see the next fight."

"Ugh -" Reicket glanced at Gilsa, then Siegfried, "I don't mean to be rude, but I was going to take quick walk. To stretch. And cool down."

"Oh." Counsel Pyn's daughter spoke up, rising gently, "If you are walking, may I accompany you? I'd enjoy an opportunity to stretch my legs as well."

Reicket smiled as best he could. "Of course, you're welcome to."

Gilsa and Reicket and Siegfried all shared a quick heated look. Siegfried broke the silence between them by clearing his throat nervously, and stepping the opposite way from Reicket.

"So sorry to excuse myself as well, but I need to go powder my nose. I shall return quickly. I hope Gilsa's company is more than enough to entertain you, he speaks for myself in most manners and I admire his insight into many issues." Siegfried politely said, excusing himself.

"Truly? Knight Gilsa, was it? Your sport was impressive, and you are learned as well?" Counsel Gex asked, leaning forward to look at Gilsa.

Gilsa nodded at Siegfried, and Siegfried quickly took the moment to leave through the hall. He sat down a little distance from Princess Daphne and looked at the Aquaian as best he could, with the eyes being set so far apart. "Yes."

"I had the previous impression that humans either focused on their physical prowess, or their mental capabilities, and not both. You must be an exception, or my knowledge must be wrong." Counsel Gex politely explained, sounding very curious.

"Yes, is this sport not meant to show the mightiest of strengths alone?" Counsel Pyn echoed.

Daphne chuckled, "Well, I would say as far as most men are concerned, your summarization is quite correct."

"Truly?"

"No, that's just a joke." Daphne responded, "Go on Gilsa, stupify them with your level-headedness."

Gilsa was almost embarrassed at her, or on her behalf. He was happy to explain, and now he felt the need to impress both the Princess, and the two eagerly listening foregin dignitaries that looked to him. Gilsa was happy to, but he keenly wanted Siegfried to return quickly.

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"Uh… so…" Reicket was walking through the halls, mostly emptied except for guards, and really had no idea how to politely talk to someone who reeked and looked like fish. "Your name was Yu-lou, right? I'm Reicket."

"Yu-lou? That has a nice human ring to it. In Aquian it is Yuglh, but I think it's very hard for your tongues to say. We don't have tongues, so it's bit hard for us to say Siged-fried."

Reicket snorted, "Siged-fried, oh man, I'm going to call him that. You can just call him King I think. Sorry, that I can't pronounce your name correctly."

"That's alright. May I call you Ray then?" She asked softly.

"Sure." Reicket agreed, looking around the hall.

"Ray, what is it like to be human?"

"Huh?" Reicket wondered, scratching at his ear. "I don't know. Pretty good. What do you mean?"

"Well, you humans do not have shells. You live in such unnatural looking buildings. You all have such similar looking faces and skins. What is that like?" She asked, gazing about the room.

"Uh… Gilsa would be a lot better at answering that." Reicket told her, not wanting to offend.

"I don't want to sound mean to him, but Gilsa seems a bit… too serious to be honest. I'm sorry, is that not like him?"

Reicket smiled, "Nah, that's exactly like him! But, I'm not sure how to answer your question. Like, we don't have shells, but we have armors, you know? We can get cut, but it heals pretty quick." Reicket rolled up his sleeve a bit to show the scar across his wrist from a week ago.

"Wow. The limb doesn't fall off?" She wondered, one of her crustation hands leaning toward his wrist. "May I?"

"Uh, sure." Reicket said, and then flinched back when her very cold claw touched him. "So-sorry, you're cold."

"You're very warm." She eagerly said, "What else is there about being human? Are you all hot?"

Reicket let her touch his scar as he thought. As he thought he noticed that, other than the shell and the cold, there was another thing different about the Aquains. "Yeah. We all also have hair, too."

"Tell me more."

Reicket smiled, and was thankful that someone was finally appreciative of his knowledge. Even though it was very basic. He kept talking to her happily, and she responded in kind.

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Siegfried thought he should have tried walking and fighting with the armor before hand, instead of just making sure his face was hidden. It was half-plate, and half-chain, and it was far, far heavier than he expected it to be. Normally Gilsa had them practice in plain clothes, and when they went out it was in leather, and this was completely different from both. It pinched his joints, it weighed him down, and it made him so much slower.

Siegfried rolled his shoulder back and stood up straighter as he walked into the arena. He could see that Gilsa and Daphne were both still in their seats, but not much more than that. His opponent was also already in the arena, and the crowd was already impatient.

Siegfried hadn't met any of the fights who had entered before hand. He knew their names so he could announce them, and he really should have paid a bit more attention to 'Intui of the Wolf Tribe.' The man was tall, his skin was red, his eyes bright glowing yellow, and in his wild orange hair rose up two straight and fluffy wolf-like ears. When Seigfried entered, the man smiled with hungry fangs.

"Finally we meet, Victor!" The man shouted. "I, Intui of the Red Wolves, will defeat you, and take your title as the strongest alive!"

Siegfried paused and wasn't sure how to respond.

Intui stepped back, taking the proper paces to begin the fight. He raised his arms, showing long deadly claws on his hands, and continued to smile. "You better prepare yourself, I'm not going to hold back against the Victor."

Siegfried was wearing a helmet. That probably explained why this wolf-man was mistaking him for someone else. It also explained why the man didn't pick-up on how completely confused Siegfried was.

"I'm… sorry?" Siegfried finally managed to slowly say, his voice as confused as he could make it.

Just as he spoke the trumpets sounded. Siegfried watched as Intui tensed, and he quickly pulled out the longsword from his belt. It was an instant decision to bring up his sword in response, and Siegfried held it strongly in both hands as Intui charged at him.

The wolf-man had both his hands extended as he attacked and batted at Siegfried with his deadly claws. Siegfried felt the first hit against his sword, and it was strong enough to turn his blade aside. That made Siegfried leap back, letting his sword dip down so he could escape. Siegfried stepped back strongly, and carefully, so he wouldn't trip, and so he could keep his eyes clearly on his opponent.

The man stepped back from Siegfried after his attack, and slowly he began to look confused as well. "What the hell was that?"

Siegfried righted himself, and raised his sword straight before him. "I'm not sure who you are mistaking me for-"

"Mistake?" Intui repeated, "You just call yourself Victor? Like a little cowardly liar?!" The man angrily shouted.

The man charged forward, his claws slashing out in quick succession. They cut through the air with a loud swish, and Siegfried dashed around and to the side as he dodged away. He had no chance to attack, he barely had time to dodge, and Siegfried was panting with effort as he ran away. He couldn't bring his sword up to block, the claws would hit it too quickly aside. He couldn't get far enough away to put power into his swing.

All Siegfried could do was doge.

That only enraged the wolf-man farther, but in a way that sapped away his fighting spirit. The man roared, his hands angrily reaching to the sky. His teeth gleamed, and then he bared them in fury toward Siegfried.

"You're not him! You're awful!" The man screamed, throwing his hands up again in exasperation. "I came all the way from the Great Waste for this!" With that declaration the man pulled out gloves from his belt and angrily pulled them over his claws. "This is over! I can't believe this!"

Siegfried couldn't help letting his sword drop slightly at the rant. "E-Excuse me?"

"I'm leaving!" The wolf-man shouted, "What an awful joke! I forfeit! Good-bye Crystalandia, you were awful!"

The man started storming toward the exit immediately, frumping and stomping angrily as he quickly moved completely out of the arena. A chorus of boos came down from the crowd as the man walked and he shouted up at them angrily, waving a fist toward the throngs of people. Then with no more fanfare, the wolf-man completely left the tournament.

Leaving Siegfried standing there. No fight. No reveal. No challenge, or challenging himself. Just a winner by default.

Siegfried sheathed his sword numbly, and turned to leave as well, feeling hollow.

----------------------------------------

Daphne stood from her seat after the dramatic ending to the fight. She seemed untouched by it, albeit entertained, and simply brushed off the small dirt from the front of her dress. Gilsa tried not to notice what she did too much, but his eyes always seemed to be pulled in her direction. It could have been because of her beauty, because he wanted to impress the Princess, or because he wanted to protect Siegfried's older sister. He couldn't quite pin down why.

Daphne didn't look toward him, instead turning her head toward the stairs with a small smile. "There you are! Missed quite the show, I think."

Gilsa stood as well so he could see, and watched a very tired and sweaty Siegfried come to the top of the stairs. He smiled back at his sister, but there was something… more somber about him. Seigfried almost seemed spited, and put on a fake face, which wasn't something Gilsa knew him to do. He stayed where he was, however, because now wasn't the time to speak to him about it.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to be away so long. I was watching the fight on the lower level and lost track of time. Quite a... disappointing outcome." Siegfried walked over as he spoke, seeming more disappointed as he came to the seats.

Daphne patted him on the shoulder as he passed. "Don't worry, I'm sure the next one will be much better."

That made Siegfried perk up, and he looked right at Gilsa. "Oh! It's your next match, isn't it!" He seemed excited about it, and gave a smile.

Gilsa got to his feet. "Yes, I'll be fighting again."

"Why don't I walk you down?" Daphne asked, drifting toward the stairs slowly, "Now that Siegfried is back, it's my turn to powder my nose. He'll be the perfect gentleman to you Counselors."

"I will accept gracefully, your Holiness." Gilsa replied, walking over to her.

"Best of luck!" Siegfried told them earnestly, "I'll be watching closely."

"Thank you, your Highness." Gilsa responded, dipping his head respectfully.

Daphne chuckled as they stepped into the stairway together. She looked at him through eyes scrunched up in amusement. "You know, you don't have to be formal with him. Siegfried doesn't mind. I don't either - which I think I've told you before, Sir Ducere."

"I'm not a Sir quite yet, your Holiness. Also, at a formal occasion such as this, I wouldn't break courtesies. Even with your permission." Gilsa explained.

Daphne rolled her eyes and gently pushed his shoulder. "Whatever makes you comfortable, stick-in-the-mud." She stopped at the turn to the arena. "Well, at least it sets a good example for Siegfried. Have a good fight, Gilsa, I'll be cheering too."

Gilsa bowed his head. "Thank you, your Holiness."

Gilsa turned away politely, and started walking toward the arena, preparing himself for his next fight. He hadn't taken anything off, so he didn't need to stop by the armory. He still had the dull training sword. He'd taken a break and drank water; he felt good. He was confident, almost, but Gilsa was cautious about underestimating an opponent he'd never even set eyes on.

"Hey! Ducere!" Someone called, walking toward him in the hall.

Gilsa paused, and noticed there was a small group moving toward him. He recognized all of them, and crossed his arms sternly.

"Look! Told you he'd do the thing." A trouble maker said, nudging a pretty girl.

Gilsa leveled a disappointed stare at them."Layfe, Remmie, Saxton - are you supposed to be at a post? Lady, good afternoon."

Layfe smiled. "We do not, Commander."

"Swear on my Oath." Saxton said, raising his hand up. "We came to cheer you on."

"And watch you beat someone's ass." Remmie replied, wrapping his arm around the girl's shoulders. "You'll let us watch you from the side lines, right, Commander? You wouldn't want to disappoint Renesmae, right?"

Gilsa held in his sigh. Remmie was trying very hard to get Renesmae to accept an early proposal from him, and Gilsa wanted her to accept as well because it meant Remmie would be moving out of the capital. It would also be pretty rude for him to refuse his friends, even if they were also his subordinates.

"Alright. Just don't step onto the field, or you'll be reporting to the Captain." Gilsa relented. "Or me. Tomorrow, at day break."

"Yes!" Layfe quietly cheered.

"Good luck Ducere!" Saxton offered, raising his hand in a quick salute.

"Make sure to do something impressive, like win!" Remmie said, offering his support as well.

Gilsa nodded, and marched past them all to step into the arena for the second time today.

A roar came from the crowd as he and his opponent stepped on the dusty field. It was so loud Gilsa couldn't hear Siegfried announce his opponent's name, but Gilsa could tell from looks alone. The Black Knight. One of the few contestants who chose to hide their identity in sport and dramatics. It was an old and dramatic tactic meant to scare, or to hide the person's true strength. It made it so Gilsa couldn't ask around about their style of fighting and prepare for it before the fight. Gilsa had known how Reicket would fight, so he had an innate advantage, and Gilsa's fight would have been watched by this Black Knight, so now they had the advantage.

Gilsa took a breath and walked closer. The Black Knight did as well.

He had on thick plate armor. Shoulder pauldrons that pointed up evilly, bracers and guards covered in spikes, and a helmet that had one narrowed slit for eyes. Across their waist was a bright red belt, and on it was a longsword that was the same dull iron for practicing as Gilsa's.

Gilsa wondered where in the world they had it made, and how much it would have cost.

When the Black Knight pulled free his sword Gilsa responded in kind, both of them holding the blunted weapons out straight. It was a good starting point, it was defensive, and offensive, it could be a deadly threat and respond to one quickly. The stance also showed that this person had been classically trained - trained like Gilsa had been - more than self-taught. Maybe. He shouldn't assume too much. Not before they even crossed.

Gilsa let out a nervous breath, forcing his fears and anxieties out in that puff of air. He changed his grip on his sword, bringing it down across his hips, the tip toward the ground, and gently bent his knees as he waited for the trumpets.

All the Black Knight did was slightly raise their head. They were just as tall as Gilsa. Just so.

The trumpets sounded loudly, and on the last bleat the Black Knight charged forward with sword extended. He closed the ground quickly, and Gilsa stepped forward to meet the charge, then planted his feet firmly. The Black Knight stabbed out with their longer sword, aiming straight for Gilsa's chest in a powerful thrust. Gilsa grabbed his own sword with his gloved hand and raised it up in a block, hitting it against the Black Knight's blade and spinning it aside in a practiced counter. The Black Knight was still posed with the truth, and Gilsa raised his sword with the turn, still holding it with both hands, and went to stab at the helmet. Just before his blade met the Black Knight raised one armored boot and kicked across at Gilsa, slamming his foot into Gilsa's lower stomach and sending him back.

Gilsa broke away, swinging his sword down toward that leg as he hastily walked back. The Black Knight twisted and regained his balance on both feet, then paced to the side and away slowly. Gilsa stepped back farther, and forced himself to take long painful breaths over the painful bruise on his stomach.

The screams of the crowd echoed around them, and wild hooting and hollering filled the stadium. The ground almost shook with the rabid stomping and clapping from the stadium. All of the air seemed charged, and it made Gilsa physically tense as he stared across the dry dirt at his opponent.

He let out a slow breath, forcing his shoulders down, to relax, to unlock his elbows and knees. Regardless of the expectations of the crowd, of their furious shouts and egging, Gilsa couldn't be tense, he couldn't be focused on anything else. He had to pay close attention to this fight.

Fake fight or not, that was a good move from the Black Knight, and it was one Gilsa hadn't expected. It was a street move, one from experience, trial-and-error, not practice. This was something he could face in the future. This person wasn't an enemy, but later on there could be one who was just as capable - more capable - and that would be a fight Gilsa couldn't lose. So now he had to win, because in the future, he would have to win as well.

From the crowd boos began. Taunting for movement, demands for another violent clash, and screams of disappointment were flung down at Gilsa and the Black Knight. Gilsa hadn't moved, but neither did he. Both must have been thinking almost the same thing. The Black Knight still had their sword posted forward and up, ready to charge, ready to defend. Gilsa kept his sword down.

Gilsa moved.

He charged forward in short balanced steps, his eyes watching the Black Knight's sword carefully. The Black Knight brought their sword in, close to their hip, drawing it back for a straight strike. Gilsa saw that move, and so just as he came within their reach stopped suddenly, firmly planting his feet. The Black Knight lashed out with their sword, piercing it through the air at Gilsa - again straight for his chest. Gilsa raised his sword up from the ground hitting the Black Knight's blade up high so it was directed to the side, and in the same swipe continued bringing his blade forward toward the Black Knight's neck in a wide chop.

With incredible speed the Black Knight raised their arm beside Gilsa's blade, catching his sword in it's spikes and still keeping their large sword raised with one hand. Gilsa pressed forward for a moment, knowing the Black Knight could bring their blade across their own arm and determinedly put his strength behind his swing, trying to drive their blocking arm down with force. They were locked like just, just for the barest moment, and then Gilsa lept back as the Black Knight raised their leg again.

Gilsa brought his sword up in front of him, out of years of discipline alone, and as he did the Black Knight swung out with their sword. It elongated in their grip, stretching out farther than Gilsa anticipated, and it slapped into his sword with unexpected power, making his wrists throb with the impact and his blade shake. Gilsa was shocked, because there was no way to make a sword longer, but as he retreated he saw that the Black Knight had let the hilt slipt through their hand, and they were holding the pommel in their fist.

Gilsa let out an unbelieving breath.

The Black Knight reposed. Both gauntlet hands went back to their blade, and his feet were firmly planted. Then, he changed his stance. His knees bent a bit deeper than before, his shoulders raised, and in a delicate motion the Black Knight raised his sword upward, and across the back of his neck.

Gilsa recognized the move, and brought mirrored the stance. The Black Knight would charge forward and bring their sword up for a high attack, then down straight on his head. It was a well known attack, and Gilsa remembered the counter.

Together they ran forward, trying to get as close as possible for their strikes. Gilsa ran faster, taking longer strides, because he had a shorter blade, and needed to close the distance quickly. He had his sword raised up and ready, and the Black Knight had his raised as well. In a second both brought their sword down, the blades clashing powerfully against each other above their heads, the iron grinding and creaking from the blow.

Just then, in that exact moment Gilsa bent down, letting his sword be pressed down, and he let go. With one hand he reached up and around, wrapping his arm around the Black Knight's blade, pulling it down and twisting his arm around it to hold it fast.

"Ha!" The Black Knight laughed, his blade held fast, unable to pushed forward or pulled back.

Gilsa flipped his sword around as fast as he could, aiming it toward the Black Knight for the final strike. He raised his arm to stab up at the Black Knight's helmet again, and for a moment he could see their green eyes sparkle as his blade sliced toward their head.

Then, the Black Knight ducked, falling to one knee and ducking their head aside. It happened exactly as Gilsa extended his arm fully, the blade slicing through the air by his head. With the miss Gilsa immediately knew he had to correct, and he was going to bring his sword in for a cut to the neck. Except the Black Knight caught his wrist.

Being so close, his sword tip now behind the Black Knight, there was nothing Gilsa could do to stop him. His wrist was being held fast in an in grip, and before Gilsa could respond the Black Knight rushed to their feet, slamming their heads togeter in a brutal head-butt that sent Gilsa reeling, his vision whiting out and sparkling with gray as he was dazed.

His sword was ripped from his hand, and he lost his grip on the other as he stumbled back from his brain rocking back and forth in his skull. Gilsa let himself stumble back, trying to put distance between himself and the Black Knight, but he was too off balance, his head pounded too much and hurt more and more each second.

Gilsa fell over backward, barely managing to catch himself in the dirt.

"Match." The Black Knight said, his voice husky and metallic though the helmet.

Gilsa looked up, and he was standing over him, both swords held out in his black gaults, ready for a decapitating cross-down strike, the armor casting a dark shadow as the sun sparkled behind him.

A massive roar went up from the crowd, one that seemed impossible from the number, and it shook the dust up from the stadium as people leapt from their seats with applause and cheers. The air vibrated with claps, the world echoed with names, with laudes of praise, and explosive excitement. Everyone was satisfied, everyone was over joyed, the battle was longer, it was dramatic, and the victor was deserved.

Gilsa let out a huff of amused air, one that was resigned and disappointed, but he knew it too - he lost fair and square. The Black Knight was the true winner here.

The Black Knight didn't bask, or brag. He returned his sword to his belt, and then crouched down to offer Gilsa a hand. Gilsa took it, and slowly got to his feet, his head swimming in vertigo for a moment before he found his feet.

"Good fight, Sir Ducere." Black Knight said, their voice ringing with metal.

"You too." Gilsa agreed, squeezing his eyes shut against the bright lights that kept flashing. He rubbed his head, where the Black Knight hit. "A head-butt?"

"All battles must be won by any means. That's your code isn't it?"

Gilsa nodded, and that was a bad decision, and he had to focus to steady himself.

"Be well, Sir Duecere. A pleasure fighting you."

Gilsa brought his hand up in a parting wave, and the two turned to exit separately. People were still cheering, and it sounded almost like it came through water. Gilsa gently touched his head again, and felt it throb with pain. He felt dizzy as he kept walking toward the exit, but he could see fine now.

"Commander! That was incredible!" Layfe shouted, rushing up to greet Gilsa with open arms.

"I've never seen you fight that hard, those moves were amazing!" Saxton lauded, coming up to his other side.

Both Layfe and Saxton took Gilsa's arms, gently leading him over to a nearby bench. Gilsa sat down graciously, and closed one eye. "Can you two be a bit more quiet?"

"Oh man, you definitely have another concussion." Layfe worried happily. He brought up his hand in front of Gilsa's face. "And uh…"

"Don't tell me, another black eye?" Gilas lamented, squinting against a new blossoming pain behind his eyes.

Both Layfe and Saxton made a sympathetic noise. "Two." Saxton quietly confessed.

"Hey-" Gilsa realized suddenly, looking around, "What happened to the trouble maker?"

"Uh," Layfe rubbed the back of his neck, looking aside with a blush. "You know."

Gilsa wanted to roll his eyes, but closed them instead. "Not my problem for a week, at least."

"Why don't you lie down, and we'll get you some ice?" Layfe comforted, "Least we can do after that show. You were amazing Ducere, it was - wow - you were amazing against that behemoth."

"Yeah, I thought for sure you were gonna win, at least twice, but then that guy kept just kicking and grabbed you - what a fight." Saxton congratulated. "You're gonna have a hell of a time during training. Everyone saw that."

"Everyone?" Gilsa wondered, then sat up, "Siegfried! I'm supposed to be with the King!"

Saxton raised his hands in caution. "All right, we'll get you there, Commander. After you get some ice."

----------------------------------------

Siegfried passed Gilsa in the hall. He looked awful. His head was red and purple and swollen, his eyes were black and red on the top, and he had on arm around someone Siegfried didn't recognize. Another man was holding a sack of ice to his head, and both of them seemed incredibly proud and happy. Siegfried wanted to stop and hug Gilsa. He wanted to congratulate him, and sympathize with his loss, but he couldn't because he wasn't supposed to be fighting in this tournament.

All Sigfried did was pause and step aside as they passed, and hoped Gilsa wasn't too worried that Siegfried wouldn't be in his seat when they got up the stairs.

Then he continued forward toward the arena entrance, praying he could be a fraction as impressive as Gilsa. A fraction as knightly, as strong, as skilled with a sword. Siegfried held his breath as a hushed excitement went over the crowd as he stepped forward.

The noise got louder as his opponent came out from the opposite entrance, hope that the fight would be as entertaining and impressive. His opponent was the White Knight. It had to be the White Knight. Siegfried set up the roster that way. He'd only allowed anonymous opponents at seeing the request.

Siegfried felt awful about this match. He felt like this was wrong, that it was disrespectful to his father, to himself, as the White Knight. Siegfried felt nervous about this match. He was fighting this unknown person, this phantom that was himself and his father, and he knew he wanted to win. He had to prove he could fight. He could raise his sword against an opponent and win. He needed to see how strong he was. How much he had grown. He had to overcome his own weakness in this person - this person who had no idea what he felt or thought - and he had to prove to his father that he was capable as well.

He had to do all that, and it frightened him, it excited him, and he only hoped that he could get something out of this - some untouchable catharsis - and that it would be nothing like fighting that wolf-man.

The White Knight raised one gloved hand. "Hail, Mister Victor."

"Greetings." Siegfried responded. "And good luck."

The White Knight nodded, taking out one short sword that matched Siegfried's. "Good luck."

Siegfried nodded, and his teeth clenched nervously. He held out his sword, trying to copy what Gilsa had done, remembering what he had explained to him.

He heard his sister announce the fight, and Siegfried was very grateful for her presence here today, and then the trumpets sounded, signinally the start. Siegfried sucked in a breath, puffing up his chest and he steeled himself.

The White Knight stalked forward. He didn't run, or charge, it wasn't quick like any other fight. He took calculated steps, moving forward and to Siegfried's side so he was forced to twist his feet. Slowly he crept forward. Slowly he moved to the left.

Siegfried tightened his grip on his sword, his muscles tensing as he readied to counter. Siegfried wouldn't attack first, he couldn't. He hadn't seen anyone fight like this, he didn't know what this White Knight was trying to do, but it was making Siegfried very cautious, and so he wouldn't attack first.

When the White Knight was about three paces away, he finally stopped. He planted his feet firmly on the ground, and his sword was tipped ever so slightly toward the ground. Then he attacked. Siegfried raised his shoulders in surprise, but he knew what to do. As the White Knight moved forward he brought his sword straight out, and Siegfried did as well, hitting it along the side making both swords spark. Both of the blades were out stretched, parallel to each other in the air, not moving forward or back for a second, and Siegfried retreated.

When the crowd roared it surprised him, and his gaze flicked away from the fight for just a moment. That was when the White Knight came forward again, his sword raised above his head with both hands. Siegfried managed to raise his just in time, catching the blades together on their edge, and he took a step back to have a strong back foot for a counter. But the White Knight took a step forward, and as he did he raised his sword up from under Siegfried's, making Siegfried raise his arms, and with a clean movement the White Knight twisted the tip of his blade around, cleanly stabbing it straight into Siegfried's head.

Siegfried barely felt it from the helmet, but it was a clean and decisive strike. It was a winning strike that was uncontested completely. So strong, and so precise was the strike, that were it a bit more to the right it would have taken out Siegfried's eye. What the dulled blade did instead of striking Siegfried's eye was hit at the perfect spot on the helmet.

Maybe it was because this was old borrowed armor, maybe it was because the dulled sword was a bit sharper, or the White Knight a bit stronger, but by fate alone did that single strike break apart the bolt holding the helmet clasped shut on the side, it was enough of a blow that it pushed the rest of helmet backward and off of Siegfried head, expose his face completely as the piece of armor dangle from the tip of the practice sword.

The crowd gasped as one, the sharp intake of breath pulling all the air from Siegfried's lungs. A horrid silence followed, each moment in the quiet making Siegfried freeze more and more from embarrassment at being discovered, at having lost, at needing to sneak around despite being King. He hated it. He hated it.

Siegfried felt a gross feeling in his stomach at being caught. He wanted to cry from having lost so quickly, in such a lame and embarrassing way. He wanted to sit down, and hide, and not be here, with hundreds of eyes of his citizens upon him as he lost and was caught in a lie.

This was - this was - this was awful and it would only get worse if he didn't do something, but all he was able to do was stay still... frozen.

Except then, the White Knight dropped his sword, and he fell to the ground on his knees.

Siegfried's arms sagged in confusion, and he watched with the same attentiveness as the crowd as the White Knight raised his hands to his helmet. What was happening was so unexpected, Siegfried almost immediately forgot his own emotional worry. As Siegfried watched, and the Consuls from Aquinnius, and Daphne, and all of the Kingdom, the White Knight took off his helmet as well. He set his helmet beside his knee, in the exact place a true knight would place it in ceremony. Then the man bowed his head.

"King Siegfried, I am honored to duel you. I am Sir Percival Seawind the Third, and I have traveled from the Pegasus Kingdom to propose to you."

Siegfried's sword touched the ground, all the air going out of him as the embarrassment, the shame, the sadness and anger bleeding out from him.

"Excuse me?"

"I've come to ask for your hand in marriage."