a tournament of swords
While tourneys in the knightly tradition are still held among the nobility of Clarion, and the soldiers of the Kasparian Empire partake in their drills and pageants, a swordplay tournament like the Praesidian Challenge is truly a special event.The great noble, scholar, and noted genius of the sword Prince Emilios Escaeda looked upon our world in tumult, only recently emerged from its long period of war and strife, and he saw beauty in it.
In this age of both great enlightenment and great violence, he saw the dawning of an age of martial brilliance. He decided it must be celebrated with a grand gathering for the most accomplished swordsmen in all of Duatha - and a contest to test their arts.
The Prince Escaeda has dedicated his life to the holistic study of the sword. In his philosophy of the blade, he states that the way of the sword is a form of personal cultivation, a rare meeting of theory, practice, and necessity.
Through the refinement of technique, the discipline of mind, and the perfection of body, the true potential of man may be unlocked.
The Praesidian Challenge is therefore both a contest and a colloquium. In this form of debate, however, arguments shall be voiced through the ringing of steel, and victory shall be the proof of their achievements!
Here, accomplished practitioners of the sword will demonstrate their techniques, and wager their skills, training, and experience against fellow masters of the art.
The Praesidian Challenge is therefore both a contest and a colloquium. In this form of debate, however, arguments shall be voiced through the ringing of steel, and victory shall be the proof of their achievements!
Here, accomplished practitioners of the sword will demonstrate their techniques, and wager their skills, training, and experience against fellow masters of the art.
One year ago, Prince Escaeda commissioned the creation of sixteen medallions, each bearing the Hydra Crest of Praesidia. He then sent forth sixteen heralds to distribute these medallions across Duatha and beyond.
These medallions are not simply lavish gifts, but exclusive tokens of invitation to the Prince's tournament. Whosoever presents themself at the Palace of Praesidia on the appointed day with a medallion upon their breast shall be welcomed into the Praesidian Challenge, to win both riches and renown with their skills.
Some of these medallions were presented to the most prominent (or notorious) swordsmen in the land - those widely considered to be the best of the best. But mere celebrity was not be enough to guarantee a place in Prince Escaeda's court.
Those with a medallion in their possesion must demonstrate their worthiness to the world... by defending this invitation from all challengers who might seek them out and demand a duel.
In Verezza in the south, in the courts of Athagon, and in the northerly city of Wintergrin - places where the culture of the sword is at its most vivid - medallions have reportedly passed through several hands already.
In Verezza in the south, in the courts of Athagon, and in the northerly city of Wintergrin - places where the culture of the sword is at its most vivid - medallions have reportedly passed through several hands already.
However, it is also rumoured that a small number of these medallions travelled to more obscure destinations at the Prince's behest. The truth of who holds a medallion is a secret known perhaps only to the Prince's heralds, and to Escaeda himself.
A medallion may only be claimed through engagement in a fair duel -- not by chance, theft, or treachery. It is believed that the Prince ensured that potent enchantments were placed upon his tokens, precisely to ensure that none could fall into unworthy hands by dubious means.
Moreover, a medallion can only be conceded by the bearer on the occasion that they are defeated in single combat... whether they survive the encounter or not. Such prizes as these can only be purchased with the currency of sweat, steel, and blood.
Contestants must present themselves on the specified day (The Last Day of Spring, 3011) at the Court of Praesidia, bearing each a Medallion of Invitation.
The Rules of the Game
- A challenge duel must be one-on-one. The challenged party must comply as soon as they are able-bodied and ready.
- Armour may be worn for protection purposes with the agreement of both parties, but should not exceed a simple breastplate to protect one's vitals.
- Magic shall not be used to bolster abilities, to interfere in the contest, nor to change the outcome of duels.
- The weapons employed in this duel must be true swords. This definition is broad, and includes blades both great and small, curved or straight, single or double-edged.
- A duel in the Proving Grounds phase will conclude when one combatant concedes their defeat, or is otherwise physically unable to continue. A fight to the death is not required... nor is it forbidden.
Conduct at the Praesidian Court
Contestants may be accompanied by a retainer, squire, consort, doctor, or herald. However, the size of their entourage must not exceed four. Observers and guests of the court will be at the discretion of the Prince.
His Illustrious Highness will serve as the president and judge for all matches. The conditions of these duels and any additional requirements for victory may be announced by the Prince at the commencement.
Guest-contestants and their entourages will enjoy the hospitality of the Prince, and are invited to feast at his table during the tournament. They will be quartered in the Tower of the Siren, and are welcome to move about freely in the city below.
Guest-contestants and their entourages will enjoy the hospitality of the Prince, and are invited to feast at his table during the tournament. They will be quartered in the Tower of the Siren, and are welcome to move about freely in the city below.
Contestants must conduct themselves with respect and keep the Prince's peace while in Praesidia. Feuds and other vendettas between contestants will not be recognized or tolerated by the Grand Prince. Fighting outside the confines of the tournament proceedings is not condoned.
THE CHALLENGERS
Grand Prince Escaeda has caused a great stir in the martial world. Rumours now swirl about in the noble courts and barracks, in sword schools and mercenary dens -- who has won or lost a medallion?
And who holds one now? And for those who aspire to the Praesidian Challenge, who did they choose to test themselves against?
Thus far, the grapevine has only confirmed five Medallion-holders out of the full sixteen. Although they come from different backgrounds, each is a redoubtable swordfighter with a storied history:
- LADY PIRADA, the Saint of Atalante (Iagos)
- Sir NOAH BLACKFALL, rogue knight (unknown)
- XATAXES of Dumacia, gladiator (Old Cyrona)
- Chevalier DAMION ST-LOIC, courtier (Athagon)
- Captain JANOS SZARCO, hussar (DEFEATED)
Other medallions are said to have turned up in major centers of Capracia and Torvaria, as well as the mercenary ports of Delon... but exact details are spotty, and accounts often mention different names. It seems the dust has yet to settle in some places.
Some have theorized that several medallions may not even be on the continent.
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