Empire - Scene 3: A Day at the Races

Arrival

Kamzu arrives.

Ada

(Ada) The racetrack at the Field of Muster is full to the point of overflowing with people crowding in to watch the noble race. The level of talent on display may not be quite as much as when actual jockeys head out onto the track, but the personages out riding are often personally known to many of the city's current visitors, from the minor holders of individual estates or members of small houses, to a few from larger houses, and so their friends, relatives and households pile in to watch.

Emil

(Emil) No one would accuse Emil of being an actual jockey, but how could anyone allow a noble race but not field one of House Gabel's horses? It's unthinkable! Unfortunately, the Gabel cousin who is the BEST with horses isn't available, so here is Emil, leading a well-bred blood bay of Gabel's racing lines. Not nearly as large as their destriers, the bay is still an impressive creature, and Emil--much less impressive--can't help but show him around a bit as they make their way towards the starting point.

Arrival

Irreth arrives.

Ada

(Ada) Various cheers and hollers rise from the stands as Emil emerges onto the track, mostly from Gabel partisans or household servants, even something of a showing from the Ehrharts and Luthes in attendance. Does it matter to them that he's not really a horseman? Apparently not.

Irreth

(Irreth) Having only just recently arrived in Sanctum, Irreth is here to make a statement. The Exalted Sufet wears a dress of deep blue silk, the gold embroidery tracing the collar and hemline, as well as cirling her waist. A glittering gold-and-sapphire circlet sits on her head, jewels dangling down across her forehead. The colors match that of House Anadun, and the signet glittering on her finger among the other rings. While she's not much for riding horses -- camels being far more suited to the climes of her homeland -- there's a spark of interest in her eyes as she glances to the track. Yet the way she looks to the crowd suggests she's here for the socialisation, not the race itself. She pauses near a group, asking, "Is someone familiar with these races able to talk me through it?" Really, what needs talking through? But it's a point of opening.

Kamzu

(Kamzu) %RKamzu enters the Field of Muster with his honor guard in a tight file, steps even, cloaks trimmed close. He pauses at the gate, gives the stewards a calm nod, and lets his gaze sweep the stands, the track, and the exits. His chin lifts a finger's width as he measures distance and footing, then he signs for the guard to loosen rank but keep spacing. He moves along the inner rail at a steady walk, hands behind his back, counting strides and turns by sight. The crowd presses in, yet he keeps an easy pace, voice low as he says to his sergeant, "Note the chutes, the corners, and the nearest water."%R%RHe stops where the view is best and watches the blood bay from House Gabel step out, eyes narrowing just a touch in approval at its clean lines. He gives a small clap with gloved fingers but says nothing more, keeping to himself. To a nearby stable lad straining for a look, he offers a brief smile and shifts aside so the boy can see. He takes the measure of the cheering and the silence between it, then inclines his head to the horses on their way to their races as he continues his circuit, marking faces and paths without hurry.%R

Ada

(Ada) The arrival of still more lofty nobility prompts a group of the city watch with stout cudgels to hurry over to ensure nobody crowds them in too much, especially the two arriving sufets. A stand is in place for the high nobility to use -- not that anyone present on ground level is about to /make/ them use it.

Sigitas

(Sigitas) House Sikarin is not known for breeding its own horses, but yet they are supplied with some of the finest breeds to fulfill their important duty up in the harsh north. Sigitas so finds himself on the back of a fine black stallion and can hold himself well enough due to decent training on the battlefield, but there might still be be some discomfort in his movements atop the horse, as the young man tries to get used to the new mount, that he clearly lacks the experience with.

Koline

(Koline) "Your Imperial Majesty, it would be our pleasure to show you to your seat in the royal box..." says an attendant for not the first time. Empress Koline smiles and nods, but makes no move to actually let herself be led to said box or seat. At some point, she'll have to, but not just yet. Mingling seems more appealing. "Just a moment," Koline says to the attendant. "I do believe that I've spotted a Hadashi Sufet or two, mm? I'd like to make sure that they're properly greeted." The tone of voice makes it clear that she intends to do so herself, instead of delegating the task to courtiers.

Ada

(Ada) There may be rather fewer partisans of House Sikorin than of House Gabel here, but the presence of the young boyar out on the track prompts some raucous shouting and pointing from a group of the far-from-home tundra dwellers.

Emil

Emil waves a little bashfully to the cheers from the Gabel section. "If I fall off it's going to be deeply embarrassing," he mutters under his breath. But as Sigitas approaches on his own mount, he's distracted with admiration for the horse. He swings himself up into the saddle and moves to the starting line to say to the Sikarin, "What a lovely creature. I think it'll be an excellent race, for certain." He sizes up the movements of the rider with, perhaps, a _touch_ of concern. "Feeling steady? Have you raced before?"

Koline

(Koline) For posterity, Koline is wearing a resplendent turquoise gown that makes her eyes pop. Its skirt train trails behind her as she walks. Golden lace ribbon trim is especially apparent on open-hanging sleeves. It's all very elegant and chic, rest assured.

Arrival

Arista arrives.

Kamzu

(Kamzu) Kamzu watches the riders move to the line, then turns from the rail toward the thicker knots of people. His hand lifts once and the honor guard shifts to a looser ring that leaves space for others. He picks a path that keeps clear lanes to the exits and the nearest steps to the stands. He stops near a lively cluster and gives a small bow of the head, the set of his shoulders calm and sure, but glances back towards the horses, considering.

Ada

(Ada) The poor fellow charged with overseeing the race, a young nobleman wearing the orange of the Imperial Crown, tries to raise his voice above the hubbub. "We will be commencing presently!" he calls, though it is drowned out. He tries again, but that doesn't work, so he jogs over to the starting point and tries gesticulating at the start line instead. Some spare mounts are available near the line for those without, courtesy of an enterprising horse merchant who attempts to extol their virtues to anyone who wishes to borrow one for the race.

Sigitas

Sigitas didn't really expect much of a reaction from the crowd to his appearance in the race, but to those few Sikorin faithful he offers a wave and the slightest of smiles. Once he arrives next to Emil, the comment makes him shake his head "Just having to get used to it is all... Our house doesn't have its own resources to breed horses but we need them to defend against the dangers up north. I must say those imperial breeds are quite fascinating indeed though."

Ada

(Ada) It is possible that the Sikorin supporters are drunk. Maybe. When Sigitas waves, they whoop and cheer all over again.

Emil

(Emil) There's a wave to the crier to indicate that Emil, at least, has noticed the poor man's waving. He settles in, and smiles at Sigitas. "Our cavalry is our pride. Not that," he laughs and pats the gelding's neck, "Axe, here, is ever going to carry someone in heavy armor. But his talents lie in other areas." He grins at Sigitas and the other racers. "And the Empress is out there, too. No pressure, right?"

Irreth

(Irreth) There is an effortless elegance to the way Irreth carries herself. Even if the finery she wears didn't mark her rank, that surely does. Across the crowd, she catches sight of a familiar figure -- a secretive smile given to Kamzu, and a dip of her head should she manage to catch his gaze -- but she doesn't seek to interrupt his path. Especially not when the sufet sees who is heading toward her. "Empress," Irreth says, stepping toward Koline, stretching out a hand in offer -- not to shake, but to clasp. A gesture of friendship. The casual familiarity might be offputting for some: though normal, it seems, for the Hadashi. "What a delightful welcome to Sanctuary this is."

Arista

(Arista) %xb~~~%xn%xc***%xn%xb~~~%xn The crunch of an apple can be heard near Irreth as Arista steps casually forward. She's been trying for the last dozen or so minutes to weave - or at times push - her way through the crowd, and only now at last broke through to a comparatively reasonable viewing point. "The race?" She says, through a mouth full of apple flesh. She swallows once, twice, then speaks again. "Sure. Pretty straightforward, truly. You see that black stallion there, and that bay horse there? They'll be right up front, you'll see. Two to one odds the bay wins." She's garbed in a comfortable attire of a loose grey bodice over a white tunic, with black leggings and boots, a shortsword and buckler on her hip, and her sandy blonde hair done up in a practical ponytail. Silvery eyes gaze down the track, amused by the event and unconcerned to stand so laid-back by the circlet-clad lady - and her Imperial Majesty to boot. %xb~~~%xn%xc***%xn%xb~~~%xn

Ada

(Ada) The loose cordon of city watch are mostly at ease - as too are the several Imperial Guard standing back, with the great orange crests on their helms, though they aren't the ones doing crowd control. People are happy to flow past the empress and the sufet, and then Arista too - at least once they are quite done stopping to gawk.

Koline

(Koline) Koline clasps Irreth's hand, offering a bright smile and just the right amount of enthusiasm, carefully calibrated. "Sufet Irrath," she greets the Hadashi noble. "Your words bring me true joy." Before that line of small talk can continue, Koline cedes the floor to Arista's explanation of the race. "I believe that Lady Arista of House Aetos has most of it. The horses will race a few laps of the track, and it's all every exciting and quick. Sometimes if things get particularly wild, a horse that started with a rider will win the race without one." Koline grins. "Join me, won't you both? I need to take my seat..."

Kamzu

(Kamzu) Kamzu spots Irreth first and his face softens with a small nod. His gaze lifts to the Empress and he strides toward her at a measured pace, stopping at the right distance. He waits for Irreth to finish, then bows from the waist, right hand over his heart. His voice is calm and clear. "Your Imperial Majesty, Sanctuary is a marvel, and your people show great spirit. I bring greetings from House Phavah and from Hadash."

Sigitas

(Sigitas) "Empress?" Sigitas blinks briefly at the mention of her like he hasn't noticed it until now and once he spots her there's a half-bow offered into her direction as best one can from the back of a horse, before he returns his attention towards Emil "Yes cavalry is more on endurance anyhow like you said because of the heavy armor, even though they can do charges as well." The strategist showing in him for once or at least he knows the theory. "But back to the race, seems like the crowd gives you a bigger chance of winning than me. But we will see." He comments dryly.

Irreth

(Irreth) Irreth's posture is relaxed, despite the presence of the Empress. There's no nervousness, nor any measured or calculated enthusiasm: the brightness of the sufet's eyes suggests she's genuinely delighted to be here. At least for the time being. "If I have brought you joy, then I have been quite successful already," the Hadashi noble replies, soft laughter spilling from her lips. The sufet's eyes turn to Arista, keenly interested in her explanation. "Thank you, my lady," Irreth says, dipping her head as Koline introduces the pair. "In Hadashi, the mark of a good camel is its sturdiness, the hardiness. It would seem that's not the case for race horses?" And her gaze brightens as Kamzu approaches, waiting until after he's bowed and greeted Koline to briefly touch his shoulder in silent, easy welcome. "I'd be delighted to join you, Empress," she adds to Koline's invitation. "Thank you."

Kamzu

(Kamzu) Kamzu spots Irreth first and his face softens with a small nod. His gaze lifts to the Empress and he strides toward her at a measured pace, stopping at the right distance. He waits for Irreth to finish, then bows to Koline from the waist, right hand over his heart. His voice is calm and clear. "Your Imperial Majesty, Sanctuary is a marvel, and your people show great spirit. I bring greetings from House Phavah and from Hadash." He keeps his tone warm and formal. "My delegation waits with patience in your court, and we ask an audience when it suits your grace. Meeting you here is a gift, yet I will not pull you from your joy today with matters of state. I thank you for the welcome, and I will show my patience for my people, who endure much." He bows deeply, steps back with care, and turns to head toward the stables.

Ada

(Ada) The chap who has come to the start line to be the race announcer - now merely just to the contestants, because goodness knows he can't project his voice enough to get further - gestures at the line. "Please keep it clean. No contact. It may be the Field of Muster, but it's not a tourney. Any further contestants, make themselves known."

Emil

(Emil) "They give my _horse_ a better chance," Emil says, and he doesn't sound entirely unpleased about it. "But you've got a fine mount as well, so I feel that neither of us will shame our families." His gaze sweeps the crowd as the bay prances with high spirits under him. He quiets then to listen to the announcer and gives an easy nod; no surprises here.

Arista

(Arista) Arista pauses to hear her name spoken so smoothly, blinks, then smiles with a tinge of pink on her cheeks as she wipes her chin with the back of one leathery gloved hand. Still holding half an apple, she stoops into a - hopefully - respectfully low bow. "Your Majesty." Expression contrite at the generous invitation, she shifts as though to follow Koline towards some more formal seating. "A horse can still win without its rider? I hadn't known this was a possible tactic. There may be luck yet for the stallion's rider..." Saying this, silvery eyes track Sigitas on his mount, and she takes another idle bite of that apple. As Irreth regards her, she shakes her head slowly, though her hesitance may betray a lack of expertise. She covers this up promptly with confident smoothness in her tone. "Race horses are bred for quick yet brief jolts of energy. They carry great muscle, and yet tire over time. It is a balance of both swiftness and sturdiness which brings out the best in a horse." She watches Kamzu provide his greeting with a slightly quirked brow, but no intervening words.

Emil

Emil rolls: 3(Adanan: d8), 5(Prowess: d6), 3(Athletics: d6), 3(Gabel Bay: d6) Total: 8 (vs 10) - Failure | Effect Die: d6 Complications applied: d6 from Cross Burghers (d6)

Kamzu

Kamzu rolls: 3(Prowess: d6), 3(Athletics: d6), 5(Commander: d8) Total: 8 (vs 7) - Success | Effect Die: d6

Sigitas

Sigitas rolls: 5(Prowess: d6), 3(Athletics: d6), 8(Commander: d8) Total: 8 (vs 7) - Success | Effect Die: d8

Ada

(Ada) The young noble overseeing affairs produces a small flag to raise aloft. "When I lower the flag, we begin the race." He gives the riders a final moment, then brings the flag sweeping down. "Begin!"

Koline

(Koline) Koline responds to Kamzu's formal bow with an equally formal curtsy of the Adanian variety. "Sufet Kamzu, your words honor all of Sanctuary. I will see to it that you have your audience soon." She doesn't nail down a specific 'when,' but that's really the job of her court staff. Rare is the Empress who devotes time to micromanaging her own itinerary. As the racers prepare, Koline walks to the royal box, along with the other invitees. "It is as Lady Arista says," she confirms. "Though it's a combination of both the horse and the rider, the power AND the finesse." She takes her seat just as the crier lifts his flag.

Irreth

(Irreth) Irreth's familiarity with Kamzu is apparent, in her regard of her fellow sufet. The only thing that does seem to surprise her is his open request for audience to the Empress, a mute question in her eyes. It remains unvoiced, though, as she glances in time to catch Arista's regard. "Many of our customs are distinct from yours, my lady. Though we do our best to adhere to them, we do tend to be more relaxed in our address. The sufet is an excellent representative of his house. He is a man willing to face danger head on, with a steady reserve." Her praise happens without intention, merely relating the -- to her -- known qualities of Kamzu. The sufet moves with an easy elegance, keeping pace with Koline and Arista despite her tall stature, her head half tilted to listen to Arista. "I think I shall watch first before I dare bet, for you definitely have the advantage of me," she admits to Arista with a smile. "Unless you're happy to bet for something so simple as a bottle of whatever your favorite liquor is?" Her gaze brightens as the race begins. "Ah, well -- if the rider has a factor," with a nod to Koline as she sinks gracefully into a seat in the royal box alongside the Empress, "Then I must surely back my fellow sufet. Have we a bet, my lady?" to Arista.

Emil

(Emil) At the flash of the flag sweeping towards the ground, Emil touches his heels to the bay's sides and noble and horse leap as if of one mind. Emil is grinning with a sudden burst of boyish joy that might surprise those who know the meticulous bookkeeper of House Gabel. The gelding seems to react to its rider's excitement, and lengthens his strides, showing off the breeding Gabel is proud of.

Ada

(Ada) More cheering rises from the stands as the race commences. Besides Emil - and there are plenty of folk from Westgate here to see the horses alone - and Sigitas, who has his small, unexpected group of ardent and somewhat inebriated followers, Kamzu draws some interest from the crowd. A noble of lofty station, to be sure, but House Phavah is an unknown quantity.

Sigitas

Sigitas finds his confidence just at the right time or so it seems and when the flag lowers, he sinks his heels into the stallion's sides just at the right pressure to get off to a good start and as the horse picks up the pace slowly but steady, the young head of House Sikorin leans forwards to accomodate, urging his mount to go even faster.

Arista

(Arista) "Then the sufet is a great boon to his House. It is a rare man whom does not shy from threat and danger, rarer still someone tempered with wisdom. I should like to meet him, when the race does not distract him so." Arista finishes her apple and waves it back as though to hand it away. When she notices her arm catches on nothing but air, she turns more fully to smile and gingerly set the apple core in the hands of one of the Empress' attendants. There we go. "I would be delighted to wager for one of your Hadashi reds? In return for...a sample of our Dyrian cheeses?" She seems either reluctant or just unaware of seating arrangement for herself, instead content to stand, one thumb tucked into her belt. "We have our wager, m'lady."

Koline

(Koline) Koline applauds for the start of the race. She brings fingers up to her mouth and seems to be about to whistle, and then thinks better of it. These are the growing pains of a new Empress. Old instincts need to be outgrown. The moment of pause allows her a moment to notice that Arista is standing! "A chair for Lady Arista. Next to the Sufet." At once, the attendants bring a chair over and place it next to Irreth's.

Emil

Emil rolls: 2(Adanan: d8), 4(Prowess: d6), 2(Athletics: d6), 5(Gabel Bay: d6) Total: 9 (vs 10) - Failure | Effect Die: d8 Complications applied: d6 from Cross Burghers (d6)

Kamzu

(Kamzu) Kamzu reaches the stables and points for his sergeant to choose a mount. The guard picks a plain bay that looks sound. Kamzu steps to the horse's head, meets its eyes, and holds a steady, hard stare. He takes the reins, sets his boot, and swings into the waiting saddle as the call to start rises. He heels the horse forward to the line, seat firm, hands quiet, and the mount responds well enough, to his surprise. The flag drops and he breaks with the pack. His jaw sets and he leans low, giving the bay a clear lane. His left hand brushes the curve of his scimitar, intending to draw it out of habit, then lifts away as he keeps both hands on the reins. He rides as the others do, no flourish, no colors, only a clean pace and tight turns. He wonders idly if the rules of racing in Sanctuary allow for the cutting down of one's opponents during the race and decides that they probably do not. Probably.

Kamzu

Kamzu rolls: 4(Prowess: d6), 3(Athletics: d6), 1(Commander: d8) Total: 7 (vs 7) - Success | Effect Die: d4 (defaulted to d4) Hitches: 1 (rolled 1 on: d8)

Sigitas

Sigitas rolls: 1(Prowess: d6), 3(Athletics: d6), 2(Commander: d8) Total: 5 (vs 7) - Failure | Effect Die: d4 (defaulted to d4) Hitches: 1 (rolled 1 on: d6)

Irreth

(Irreth) "Our palm wine, then," Irreth agrees with Arista, "And though I value cheeses, I'd especially like to taste what is your preferred local beverage." Really, it's less a bet than a cultural exchange. Which is probably why Irreth hasn't bothered to clarify which rider -- or horse -- Arista is betting for. Irreth leans a little forward in her excitement, fingers twisting some of the silk in her dress as she watches the horses -- or the riders, more accurately. "I do not recognize the riders, other than the Sufet. Can either of you enlighten me?" she asks her companions.

Ada

(Ada) The bulk of the riders are now starting to fall behind Emil, or perhaps more accurately, Emil's horse. One has eked out a narrow lead over Emil in the meantime. Meanwhile, several are able to overtake Sigitas, despite the young boyar's promising early start -- this by no stretch of the imagination stops the Sikorin partisans from hollering their encouragement.

Emil

(Emil) It is absolutely the horse. Emil isn't really doing a great deal up there - he's mostly hanging on, trying to look reasonably proficient, and otherwise staying out the gelding's way. It knows what it's doing. He does let out a _mildly_ undignified whoop of excitement as Axe pulls away from the pack.

Ada

(Ada) Irreth's questions about at least one of the riders might be adequately answered by the cheering from various black-and-red clad people (Adanans sometimes struggle with imagination in matters of fashion) in the stands, and the shouts of "Gabel" and "Emil". Sure, a bunch of them are just house servants, but they sound genuine about it.

Sigitas

(Sigitas) So much for that good start, Sigitas tries not to lose his focus though, as the horse sidetracks somehow and he needs to get to back in check for the last round to catch up again, even if this seems to be a lost cause. The cheering of his house supporters drown somewhere in the background noise for him right now, as he pushes on, dedicated to at least save his Lonin pride somehow.

Emil

Emil rolls: 4(Adanan: d8), 4(Prowess: d6), 2(Athletics: d6), 1(Gabel Bay: d6) Total: 8 (vs 7) - Success | Effect Die: d6 Hitches: 1 (rolled 1 on: d6)

Kamzu

Kamzu rolls: 2(Prowess: d6), 4(Athletics: d6), 2(Commander: d8) Total: 6 (vs 7) - Failure | Effect Die: d8

Arista

(Arista) With a slight blush, Arista nods gratefully to Koline, then sort of awkwardly takes advantage of the supplied seating. She has to unstrap her buckler and set it leaning against one leg of her chair, but it doesn't take long for her to settle in comfortably and watch the proceedings attentively. "In...indeed." She considers the parry only briefly, returning a new option more suited to her conversation partner. "We do have something with a flavoring strong in anise. Sweet, silky, bit with a fiery bite to it. It is also quite strong in other ways, if that is to your preference?" That's when Irreth asks after the riders. Riders she's already implied knowledge and confidence as to their identities. She shifts uneasily in her seat, leaning forward as if too entranced by the race to respond immediately. "That one on the gelding is G-Emil. He's a noble from the Territories." She peers at the coloring on his shouting fans. "That one over there, on the black stallion? He's of the Commonwealth. Sikorin, I believe?" She frowns a little as she watches him fall back from the front, forehead lightly knitted.

Sigitas

Sigitas rolls: 3(Athletics: d6), 2(Prowess: d6), 5(Lonin: d8) Total: 8 (vs 7) - Success | Effect Die: d6

Ada

(Ada) Emil's horse almost stumbles on the final stretch, but not so much, not quite, as to fall behind the rest of the riders, while Kamzu finds himself amid the frontrunners again. Sigitas is able to rally enough that he isn't at the very back of the pack -- that particular distinction is given to one rather plump rider who is treating this all as a leisurely outing, though still, Sigitas remains ahead of some other serious contestants too. More cheering goes up as the race comes to a conclusion.

Kamzu

(Kamzu) Kamzu sits low and steady as he urges the horse on with firm legs and a quiet click of his tongue. The mount starts to tire, ears flicking back, so he loosens the reins a little to let it breathe. He leans into the turn, keeping the inside lane clean. His face stays calm, his eyes fixed ahead. The bay finds a bit more speed as they come down the stretch. He keeps the pace smooth and straight, hands quiet and sure. He asks for one more effort with a squeeze of his calves. The horse stretches its neck and gathers itself. Kamzu gives a single nod and holds the line. The finish draws near, but he does not ease up yet.

Koline

(Koline) "Boyar Sigitas, of House Sikorin," Koline oh-so-helpfully shares. If she can't recognize noteworthy heads of houses, then what is she even doing on that throne? The Empress bursts into another round of applause as the horses rush past the royal box. She looks back over toward the pair of invited guests, and asks: "So, is the wager Sufet Kamzu versus... anyone else?" She seems amused by the concept. "I can't say I blame Sufet Irreth for her faith in her peer. He looks like he knows what he's doing out there."

Irreth

(Irreth) "I'm not /completely/ certain it will be to my preference," Irreth confesses to Arista, giving her a reassuring smile as she seats herself beside the sufet. That, alongside Irreth's reach to touch Arista's arm briefly in unconscious reassurance. "But I am very much given to trying new experiences, and you have warned me -- particularly about the bite. Which only serves to intrigue me more." The calls from the crowd have Irreth glancing that way, then focusing on each of the riders as Arista identifies them. "Ah! It seems that rider-" she pauses, and nods her head in gratitude to Koline, "Sigitas, was successful. I shall arrange forthwith to have some of our palm wine delivered to you, my lady," to Arista. "You'll find it's sweet and refreshing. Perfect for a dry summer's day." The Hadashi noble doesn't seem at all upset about the loss, turning her amused gaze to Koline. "He is very much worth having faith in," she says, of Kamzu.

Emil

(Emil) There's another whoop as Emil crosses the finish line just a little ahead of the rest. He sits up as the bay slows to a canter, then a walk, and gives a wave to the various House Gabel supporters. He's breathing hard, and hops off the horse to immediately crouch beside him and feel carefully up and down the bay's legs, making sure there was no injury from that hitch in the homestretch.

Sigitas

Sigitas rolls: 5(In Charge By Default: d8), 6(Prowess: d6), 1(Athletics: d6) Total: 11 (vs 7) - Success | Effect Die: d4 (defaulted to d4) Hitches: 1 (rolled 1 on: d6)

Arista

(Arista) "Boyer?" Arista sounds impressed and surprised. "Yes, Boyar of House Sigitas. Indeed." She smiles sheepishly as Irreth touches her arm in reassurance. The jig appears to be up. "And I your palm wine, Lady Irreth. I do not doubt it will prove a fine refreshment." She nods hurriedly to Koline's query, confirming the bet. As the men reach the finish line, she chuckles and leans back in her appointed chair. "And I will prepare a bottle of our Dyrian aperitif in consolation. The perfect companion to a hearty meal."

Koline

(Koline) Koline glances over at Arista and Irreth while the two settle their bet. Something about it makes her lips quirk into a smile, but she doesn't dare intrude. Once the dust has settled, the Empress rides from her seat to applaud. It's a little thing, but those little things are often the most important, and no doubt House Gabel will get to crow a bit about the Empress applauding their victory (even though she would have issued the same standing applause to any winner of the race).

Kamzu

(Kamzu) Kamzu crosses near the middle of the pack and swings down from the saddle in one smooth move. His hand brushes the hilt at his hip and marvels that he did not draw it or cut anyone down. It seemed silly to race and not use your strengths to your advantage, but he found many things in Sanctuary strange and unfamiliar. Even just the sport itself. He gives the horse a single pat and a firm nod, then steps aside so the grooms can take it. He lifts a hand in a small salute to the stands and to the officials. Respect paid due. He walks away at a calm pace, boots steady on the packed earth. He keeps his back straight and his chin level. Kamzu had no particular feelings about losing. He didn't expect to win. Strange city. Strange horse. Strange sport. But he achieved in attempting and hopefully the people were entertained. He was happy with his decision. He offers a brief nod to other riders as they come in. He leaves his mount where it stands and makes room for the next heat as he heads off, wandering back into the crowds.

Irreth

(Irreth) If anything, Irreth's smile deepens for Arista's apparent sheepishness. Not that she draws attention to it; just continues that wordless support until it passes and her hand returns to her lap. "It is delightful paired with the freshest of fruits. Or anything flavored with coconut, especially." Clearly she wants the best showing for her wine. "You are generous indeed," Irreth says, as Arista offers a consolation prize. She follows Koline's example, and rises to her feet -- it doesn't seem to be a gesture she's used to -- though she claps with ready enthusiasm nonetheless. A strange sport, indeed!

Ada

(Ada) The hubbub picks up again when the empress rises, more cheering following, and only then does it start to settle down again somewhat. There's nothing else scheduled immediately, and so some of the crowd starts to filter out. A Gabel hand goes to help with Emil's horse. Kamzu's guard are there waiting for him. And a drunken noble from the Expanse -- "noble" in this case means that he owns about fifty hectares of tundra with a total population of thirty -- totters over from the stands to try to give Sigitas a big hug.

Emil

(Emil) Once he's sure the horse is fine, Emil turns towards the applause, particularly towards the Imperial box, and bows. To the fellow riders, he's quick to congratulate on a good run as the hand leads the Axe away. There will be a certain amount of gladhanding and gentle diplomacy of accepting and exchanging compliments--but none are so effusive as the drunken noble toddling his way towards Sigitas, and he stops for a moment to see how the Commonwealth noble handles such a thing.

Depart

Ada departs.

Arrival

Ada arrives.

Arista

(Arista) Arista is the last to rise, following along after the other women upon realizing the expected thing to do. She gives a handful of claps as she converses with Irreth. "Fish is the best partner to my offering." She looks on as attendants move in to assist the riders, surprised by the informal interaction between Sigitas and the other man. "Well. It appears the race has ended..." She purses her lips thoughtfully, still watching the Sikorin scion with passing bemusement.

Sigitas

Sigitas does best as he can for the finish of the race and hey at least he doesn't finish last much to the cheer of Sikorin and other Commonwealth folk who might be around. Speaking of those, Sigitas sighs a little, as he is approached by the noble sighs a little, but gets off the horse. Noble duties must be attended after all, that is what he was taught even at his young age and he returns the hug of the local nobleman in a formal manner, knowing his duty all too well.

Ada

(Ada) The tundra-dwelling intoxicated noble thumps Sigitas on the back, a hearty, too-forceful gesture. "Well done, well done! Bloody good showing. Well done!" He grins a big toothy grin, then not detaining the young boyar anymore, he moves back towards the stands again, raising his hands and cheering again.

Koline

(Koline) Koline offers Irreth and Arista a smile of silent gratitude (or maybe just graciousness) that they stood up with her. "This is the part of the race that matters the most to people," she asides, with mirth in her voice. "The bit after the actual running of it, where everyone figures out how much they won or lost..." Not that the Empress would ever partake in such a hobby! "Lady Arista, do let me know your thoughts, once you have a chance to taste Sufet Irreth's wine? And Sufet Irreth, your thoughts as well, really. I'm quite curious, I must admit, how different palates receive a new taste."

Irreth

(Irreth) "Hm. Curious," Irreth says, as Koline explains the custom. "I feel that losing should also be winning. And it seems the Boyar's... kinsmen?... are just as happy with him even though he did not come first." Her smile brightens at Koline's question of Arista's thoughts. "Of course. I'd be happy to share. But, for now, I should leave off monopolizing your time." With a dip of head to the pair of nobles, the sufet gracefully makes her way down to the stands, and disappears into the crowd.

Arista

(Arista) "Truly, they seem a casual - if warm-hearted - lot. Strange, I was under the impression they lived in fortresses made of snow and ice." She brushes a hand through her hair, smiling at Koline's suggestion. "I shall. I may even return to you with a sample to try for yourself, if my own kinsmen do not battle for the last drop." She nods her head to Irreth's farewell, then to the Empress herself. "Thanks for the chair, Your Majesty. I..." She glances around hesitantly, clearly unsure what best to do with herself. "I shouldn't keep you any further either." She stoops briefly to pick up her buckler and work on securing it to her belt once more. Unless otherwise halted, she prepares for her own departure into the mass of Sanctuary citizens.

Depart

Irreth departs.

Emil

Emil chuckles as the drunken noble is handled with grace. He makes his way towards the crowds, but there's a certain amount of...horse odor and sweat that's unavoidable in running a race, so there's a minimum of socializing before he politely excuses himself to go make sure he won't offend others of his station with the aura of horse. Of _VICTORY_.

Depart

Emil departs.