It was a bright, clear day.

The temperature was pleasant, the cloud cover was minimal, and the light breeze served primarily to keep the heat from growing too severe.

In other words, there was perhaps no better day for this event than today.

Fanilly glanced down towards her feet. The field was somewhat muddy, unsurprising given its purpose, but endeavors had been made to ensure it was clear and free of obstacles. The ground, while moist, was dry enough that there should be no interference with the combatants.

The Valours Tournament was a tradition in Thaln. The yearly exhibition of the country's military might had occurred even in Thaln's wartorn past, albeit in a fractured fashion at different noble estates for a significant portion of its history. Now, it was under the authority of the crown.

Indeed, she could see the King and Queen, the Princesses, and the Prince from here. But amongst the crowds, those were not the only familiar faces.

The incredibly tall figure in black armor was unmistakable. That knight's presence alone guaranteed Lady Veilena's, even though there was little reason to doubt she would be there. But a more surprising sight had nearly caught her eye...

Or maybe the blue hair and glimpse of red was a case of mistaken identity?

The expectation was for the Iron Rose Knights to participate, but it would be the first time Fanilly herself would.

Did she feel prepared?

A twinge of uncertainty ran through her heart. She would not be the only one representing the order today, far from it. But as the Knight-Captain, she had to do everything she could to put on a good performance.

---Besides, deep down, she didn't exactly dislike sparring.

There were stands selling food and various wares, even some exotic faces from afar. Nobles from Asheraad had arrived to spectate, having come to the country for diplomatic purposes. It was rumored that distant Akitsushima was represented here today, as well, though that would be unprecedented.

Unsurprisingly, hundi had appeared at the tournament in no small number. An honorable duel was a high calling for their people, after all. So too was it unsurprising that a few ingvarr had come to participate, as their kind enjoyed displaying their skills in battle.

On reflection, the Ithillane Knight Valours, who had served Thaln's crown so long ago, would likely have smiled upon the display of so many combat skills of so many different people.

At the very least, Fanilly thought it might be so.