Author Games: A Knight's Valor

Task Two: Female Entries

Lemaria Female: Ren Lancaster

The sun beat down on the arena. The stench of sweat hung in the air. Moisture was visible on the brows of most spectators. The Royal Family sat in large chairs at the head of the arena, just outside the boundaries.

The first contest had just begun, John Thommson against Zenith Nadir—a thief against an alchemist. The spectators cheered along when their favored knight put in a good blow, and groaned when the other did.

Renauda sat on a bench next to other competitors, her mind antsy with anticipation. She had been waiting her whole life for an opportunity like the one she was about to have. She felt at ease in the heavy metal armor that covered her body in spite of the heat that beat down on her. Even though this was but a small fight, she wanted to look the part.

Despite her excitement, Renauda felt a small ache in her lower back. It was one of stress—the worry of not being worthy and able to become a champion for the king gnawed at the back of her mind. What if she was not fit for the position she desired? What if she went home disgraced and dishonored?

Ren shook her head, an attempt to push the negative thoughts out of her mind. Instead another negative thought became prevalent as Cynesige Tolbert came gallivanting down the aisle.

"Does anyone wish to contribute their token to my luck? I would be ever so grateful." Many of her fellow competitors passed handkerchiefs up to the arrogant and sleazy man. He waved them in his hand, proudly displaying his favor.

"What does he think he is doing?" Edmund spoke from her right, staring with pinched eyebrows into the sun at the approaching figure.

"Seeing as he thinks he is the most wonderful man alive, he probably thinks he is winning a popularity contest." Renauda glared at Cynesige as he gradually become closer.

"Well, he is." At this Renauda whipped her head around to give a confused look at the boy, who simply shrugged. "How many handkerchiefs do you have?"

Ren bit her lip and nodded. Edmund did have a point. But she didn't need the crowds approval to know her worth.

"My dear Lady Renauda," the voice that she had learned to recognize only too well the night before greeted her ears.

Ren stared straight in front of her, wishing that if you ignored the problem it would magically go away.

It did not, however, and Cynesige continued speaking, a giant smirk displayed across his features. "I'm afraid we got off on the wrong foot." He knelt before her, bowing his head in mock respect.

"Yes, I'm afraid we have."

The current melee finished, with John Thommson declared as the winner. The poor boy he had been fighting was helped out of the arena, blood dripping from his nose.

An announcer stepped out into the center of the arena, his hands cupped as he announced the next battle. "Renauda Lancaster and Mavary Valls will grave us with their presence next! Good luck!" While spectators cheered their approval, Ren smiled both with excitement for her battle and excitement for being able leave the presence of Cynesige.

"If you will excuse me," Renauda stood, the chinking of her armor sounding as she moved to pass Cynesige.

"Of course," Cynesige moved aside, a shallow bow given as she passed followed quickly by a bout of laughter. Ren couldn't help but to let out a resigned sigh.

***

Her opponent was pretty boy, handsome and beautiful all at the same time. He raised his eyebrows at Ren, smiling at her figure.