Second Match!

The arena had barely recovered from the chaos of the opening match. The sand was still marked by the evidence of the brutal struggle between Yasha and Beau, while the audience remained in an uproar, loudly discussing the unexpected outcome of the first bout.

Kingsley Tealeaf, naturally, looked absolutely delighted. The eccentric thiefling pirate climbed back onto the small platform in the center of the arena, straightened his flamboyant cloak, and raised his speaking horn.

“WELL!”

The crowd gradually quieted.

“That was certainly a way to begin the tournament!”

Laughter and cheers erupted throughout the stands. Kingsley waited until the noise subsided before continuing.

“After witnessing one of the most ridiculous displays of martial skill, romantic rivalry, and questionable decision-making I have ever had the privilege of refereeing, it is time for our second match!”

The crowd roared again. Kingsley pointed dramatically toward one of the entrances.

“And our first contestant is someone who has already proven that the greatest weapon an adventurer can possess isn't necessarily a sword. Sometimes, it's an exceptionally complicated vocabulary. Sometimes, it's an encyclopedic knowledge of magic.”

More cheers.

“And sometimes…”

Kingsley lowered his voice conspiratorially.

“…it's being so painfully shy that your opponent can completely destroy your concentration simply by looking at you.”

The audience immediately understood. The doors opened.

“From the Dwendalian Empire!”

Caleb Widogast slowly emerged into the arena. The human wizard received a surprisingly enthusiastic welcome. He looked around at the enormous crowd, then at Kingsley, then at the other entrance. His expression suggested that he was already reconsidering every decision that had led him here.

Kingsley grinned.

“Caleb Widogast!”

Caleb adjusted his spectacles. “Must you announce all of this?”

“Yes.”

“I see.” He looked toward the crowd. “Hello.”

The audience cheered. Caleb gave an awkward little wave before retreating half a step.

Kingsley shook his head. “Such confidence. Such charisma. Truly terrifying.”

Caleb sighed. But despite his obvious embarrassment, there was something different about his expression tonight. He wasn't afraid. He was simply nervous.

Because Caleb knew exactly who was going to walk through the other door. And that was considerably more dangerous.

Kingsley turned. “And now…”

He raised both arms. “Our second contestant!”

The arena lights suddenly became blue. A familiar giggle echoed from behind the entrance.

“Oh no…” Caleb muttered while Kingsley grinned from ear to ear.

“Cleric of the Traveler! Queen of chaos! Collector of cupcakes, paintings, friendship bracelets, and extremely inappropriate ideas!”

The doors opened. A blue, half naked tiefling practically bounced into the arena.

Jester Lavorre waved enthusiastically at the crowd.

“HI!”

The audience exploded. Jester spun around once, her tail following the motion, before striking an exaggerated heroic pose.

“JESTER LAVORRE!”

She blew a kiss toward the stands. Then she noticed Caleb. Her expression immediately became mischievous.

“Ooooh, Caleb!”

Caleb's shoulders visibly stiffened. The crowd noticed. Jester noticed that the crowd noticed. Her grin became enormous. “Are you nervous?”

“No.”

“You're nervous.”

“I am perfectly calm.”

“Are you sure?.” Jester groped her breasts.

Caleb gulped and tried to look away. “I'm positive.”

Jester had a very mischievous grin.

Kingsley slowly turned toward the audience. “Ladies and gentlemen, it appears our second match has already begun.”

Jester giggled. Caleb looked at her with an expression of long-suffering resignation.

“Now, before we begin, a reminder of the rules! Combat skill matters. Magical abilities are fair game. And most important of all: fuck them up!.”

Jester's eyes lit up. Then she winked at her friend and opponent. Caleb's blush returned instantly. The audience went wild.

Kingsley raised his brass horn. “SECOND MATCH!”

The entire arena fell silent. “Caleb Widogast…” Caleb took a breath.

“Jester Lavorre…” Jester crouched slightly, ready to spring forward.

Kingsley grinned. “BEGIN!”