Redwall Abbey

The poll has been moved here, so as to accommodate for the other duels. The old results: (https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/671428436551663632/770448282362445855/20201027_134449.jpg)
OOC thread: http://redwallabbey.com/forum/index.php?topic=11743.0

  The sun shone down relentlessly on the working beasts as they scurried about under the ever watchful eye of an officious looking vole, who held a clipboard and wore a rather large top hat, most likely intended to disguise his otherwise diminutive height. Squinting through his spectacles, the beast shook his head at a couple of rake armed weasels, gesturing enthusiastically with his paws.
  "Not yet, you dolts! It'll just get messed up again! The raking needs to happen last! I've told you that before! Go get the sunshade set up."
  The chastised mustelids hurried back into the storage rooms to do as they'd been told, leaving the manager to survey the other work that was going around.
  "How many tickets have we sold, Velery?"
  A tall mousemaid looked up from her work briefly.
  "Most of them. The team are still out selling the last of them but they should be back soon. Don't worry about it, though. I'll have everything sorted with time to spare. You concentrate on the other stuff."
  The vole turned away, muttering a few phrases under his breath before returning to yelling instructions at an assorted group of ferrets, mice and rats.
  "Oi, you lot, put the quite and the yellow reserved seat tags on different sides. We don't want the observers fighting among themselves! I know we usually alternate but this is a touchy case. One group will sit one side of the arena, the other group opposite. Move it! Hurry up with that canvas! Move that banner over! Put the proper sponsorship signs up!"
  The activity continued as beasts scurried about to do different jobs, taking down signs, putting new ones up, scrubbing stair rails, cleaning seats, cutting tickets, moving tables, always with a near constant barrage of orders being yelled from both the vole and leaders of smaller groups set to one particular task.
  Three days until the combat and everything had to ready. This arena would be back in business.


~~Nitsyok~~


  "Interesting place, this. Time to make myself at home, I guess."
  Nitsyok put his bag on this single bunk and looked around some more, grinning at his surroundings. It was a fairly simple place, containing a bed, small table and a cupboard. Across the room was another door which, he had been told, had training equipment and a hot spa. It was perfectly adequate for his purpose.
  Crossing the room and opening the cupboard revealed food, both beneficial (fruit, vegetables and other healthy substances) and counterproductive (cakes, scones, bread and the like). Another shelf in the closet had soaps, brushes and various other potions and such, most likely for decorating and making the fighter look his best. Nitsyok smirked as he thought about how much fun his sisters would have with that stuff. He would run a brush through his fur maybe, but the rest of it would go untouched.
  The third shelf was empty and the forth was more of a rack, holding two small kegs. The otter crossed back to his bed and picked up his haversack, stuffing it on the third shelf before closing the cupboard. It was good to know what was available but he didn't need any of it yet.
  There was another shelf under the table holding some scrolls and advertisements. A large pitcher sat on top of the simple wooden structure and, on further observation, was full of water.
  Nitsyok took a swig of the clear liquid, approving it as clean drinking water, then returned it to its place and pushed the second door open.
  The first thing to capture his attention was a large reed mat covering most of the floor. It had interesting patterns and colours interweaving the mostly tan surface and actually looked quite cheerful. The sun shone down on half the space, while the other half had a canvas awning providing shade. The walls were thick and tall, acting slightly imposing but not terribly hideous. Outside the thick wood and stone, noise of the street floated through, with paw steps and chatter coming over the rampart in surprisingly hesitant drifts, possibly due to the heat outside.
  In one corner perched a rack of weights, with a bar in the middle and two heavy bits either side, marked with 5SA, 6SA, all the way up to 20SA. A brief sign above the rack showed that one SA was equivalent to a sack of apples, using the universal code of measurement.
  A small hut made of wood and waxed paper housed the spa while, at the other side of the courtyard sat the outhouse. There was a container of additional mats in different sizes and shapes, as well as a frame type thing with no apparent purpose. Another piece of sun-bleached parchment held a list of things that could be acquired by order, most of which sounded entirely foreign to Nitsyok.
  Shrugging and turning away from the paper, the strong otter selected a couple of weights around 15SA and began training.

Benlan Axeblood let out a sigh as he dropped his bag on the floor just outside of the door.

"Well... I guess this is it." He gave a half hearted grin, turning around to face his brother and mother. "I'm not sure if you're both allowed to stay with me or not."

"That's quite alright. After all, I have the clan to take care of." Benlan's mother Shard was the chieftess of the Axeblood Clan. Ever since her husband had died, her face slowly turned more grim and stoic with each passing season. "I'm sure you'll bring honor to our clan." She nodded her head.

"I'll make you proud."

"Hopefully." Shard grunted. "At the very least you'll hopefully make up for your failures in the past. You've grown stronger since then. Just remember everything I've taught you."

Oh, how could I ever forget? Benlan thought. Aloud, he said, "I'll try my best."

"Good luck, brother!" Young Tod threw himself at Benlan, causing the larger otter to take a step back from the force of the hug. "I'll be cheering for you the loudest!"

"Oof! Thanks, Tod." Benlan smiled, tightly returning his brother's embrace. "Once it's all over, I'll go on a fishing trip with you." Ruffling Tod's headfur, Benlan picked up his bag and rested his paw on the door handle. Shard nodded her head slightly, then turned and walked away, Tod trying to keep up with her crisp pace.

Benlan raised his paw to wave but then dropped it slowly. With a sigh, he opened the door and walked into his room.

  "Eighty-three." Nitsyok huffed, standing upright, then lowering himself down again into a straight-backed crouch, staying there for a few seconds and then standing up again as he began saying the next number.
  A knock on the door inside interrupted his third syllable and he put the weights back on their rack with a tired sigh, wiping a paw across his forehead as he crossed the courtyard, went inside and opened the door, smiling immediately at the beasts waiting outside.
  "Mam! Deena! Come in, come in! I wondered if you were planning to visit me. Can I get you anything to eat or drink?"
  The two female otters entered, Deena giving her brother a tight hug on the way passed. Nitsyok smiled a welcome to the other beast standing in the corridor, reading the ferret's name badge as he held the door open for him, also.
  "Come on in, Fednor. Take a seat and make yourselves comfortable."
  Closing the door behind the beast, the strong otter crossed to the cupboard and selected a few cakes, which he placed on the low table with a grin at his sister.
  "Dig in, please. There's plenty more where they came from and I need somebeast to help me get rid of the temptation to eat them. Would you like a drink? I noticed some kind of fancy cordial in there, as well as an ale. Fednor, Mam?"
  Fednor shook his head gratefully and the matriarch gave her son a disapproving look.
  "I hope you're not eating and drinking this stuff, Syok. You need to be healthy and fit for the coming challenge."
  Nitsyok grinned, shaking his head reassuringly.
  "Nay, I'm not eating the cakes and slices, Mam, I'm fasting."
  The ottermarm rose to her full height at that revelation, proving herself almost half a head taller than Nitsyok as she glared down at the grinning beast.
  "Nitsyok Tabnug Teng Sagnarb, have you let all your upbringing fly off the ship? You need to eat, son! When have I ever taught you the fasting is good? Never!"
  Nitsyok and Deena exchanged a glance and both started laughing, the former laying a placating paw on his mother's shoulder and lowering her back into her seat.
  "I was joking, Mam. I'd never do something so foolish. I'm eating mostly fruit and vegetables, as well as a good bit of hotroot pepper. I found a bag of them at the back of the cupboard and they make for a great snack."
  Metana allowed herself to be seated again, glowering at the joke as her daughter put a paw around her waist, drawing her in for a hug from the side.
  "Come on, Mam, you know Syok wouldn't do something like that. He may not show the most intelligence sometimes but he's not that stupid."
  Before Nitsyok had a chance to reply indignantly, Metana nodded and cut herself a slice of cake.
  "True."
  Nitsyok put on a hurt expression and rose to his footpaws, making his way to the door.
  "Well, if you'll excuse me, ladies, I have some training to do. I' so sorry my hospitality hasn't met your approval. Maybe you should go meet my competition and see if he does any better. I suppose you'll be cheering for the opposite side and hoping the Axebloods win. Traitors."
  There followed a calm closing of the door and a loud splash as Nitsyok disappeared under the water to be offended, leaving Deena and Metana to laugh at his troubles and eat his food.

Benlan walked into his room and sat down in his bed, setting his stuff down. He grabbed his short sword and spear. Though the blades were already razor sharp, he sharpened them. The sound of the stone rubbing steel was comforting and familiar in a way. His mother had taught him to take care of his weapons – his life would depend on them.

Once he was done, Benlan set them off to the side and lay down on his bed, staring up at the ceiling. "I'll make 'em proud," he whispered quietly. He inwardly shook himself as doubts began to plague him. "No. I will– I must do this."

He reached into his bag and pulled out a portrait of a pair of otters. The first, a male, had whiskers that were long and grey, his face covered with scars. Though his expression was mostly stern, the artist apparently couldn't have helped but include a twinkle in the otter's eyes. The female at his side looked happy and content, her teeth pulled into a smile.

Benlan lightly rubbed his paw across the portrait. His parents had looked so happy. But now father was dead, and Shard wasn't the same as she had once been. What would she think if you failed? He wondered. And what about Tod? He thinks you're some hero from the legends!

The young creature coughed, blinking rapidly as he shoved the portrait back into his bag. He stood up and stretched his tense muscles. "You're being ridiculous," he scoffed to himself. "Axeblood otters are strong. I can do this. Nothing to it! Besides, why should I worry what they think? If I lose I'll be dead anyway. I'll have bigger concerns."

  Nitsyok shook himself and went back inside, holding the door open for Deena and grinning at her wet whiskers, Fednor following silently, entirely dry and wanting to stay that way.
  "How long are you staying with me, Deena? You should probably get back to the rest of the family before dinner."
  Deena shook her head, spraying water in all directions as she answered her brother's question.
  "Mam said to meet her in the common room after we've eaten. I'd stay here and keep you company right up until the combat, but mam pointed out that Fednor probably has things he'd rather do, so I'll just come visit you every day."
  Nitsyok smiled at his little sister, glad that she wanted to spend as much time with him as possible before... the combat. His smile faltered as he wondered if he'd ever get to see his family after. Maybe the Axeblood would win and he... would die. The otter shook the thoughts aside, grinning again.
  "Sounds good. You can help me train. Did you bring your sling?"
  Deena shook her head, replacing her concerned frown with a beam.
  "Not today. It's at the lodging. I'll bring it tomorrow and we can get into it seriously."
  Nitsyok thumped the ottermaid's back, eagerness and excitement covering up the ever present doubts and fears.
  "Sounds like a plan. I think there's a meeting tomorrow around noonish, but we can do stuff before and after that. For now, let's have something to eat and we can get you back to Mam. I should be going to bed with the sun and I have to stretch first."
  Fednor produced a menu and gave it to the otters, explaining how to order food or any other service.
  "Circle the item you'd like on the menu, then place it in this canister, then put it in the pipe before pulling the cord."
  Deena did so and watched as the canister disappeared, then a little bell tinkled near the ceiling.
  "Right, your order will be ready shortly. If you need anything else, it works the same way. Simply write a note of what you want."
  Nitsyok nodded, giving the pipe a curious examination, then turning to the cupboard and selecting a couple of wooden bowls.
  "Alright, thanks for telling me. Deena, can you set these on the table?"
  The table was set in little time and the food arrived presently, bringing silence as the three beasts tucked in, adding hotroot and other condiments as desired.
  Outside the sky held flames of pink and gold, enhanced by the dark purple edges of the clouds as the sun gave it's farewell to the day, ensuring that the world would wait eagerly for it's bright return.
  The moon rose in order and shone down on the beasts below as they slowly settled down until all under the starry sky was still but for the fast moving clouds and eventual rain.

As the morning light filtered into his room, Benlan's eyes creaked open and he looked around his room. A brief look of confusion flashed across his face before he remembered where he was. Hopping out of bed, the otter threw some water over his face to wake himself fully. Humming a tune to himself, he tidied up his gear a bit, then decided to go for a walk.

  Right, things were coming along nicely. Awnings were set up, seating was sorted, tickets were being sold, floors and walls had been scrubbed. This morning the inside walls were to be painted, then, later on, a cart of sand would arrive for the arena floor. The supervisor ticked each task off in his head, making sure everything was organised. There was a meeting at noon with the contestants to put the rules down and sign various official documents. Did he have them all ready? Ticking each thing off mentally, the officious vole nodded curtly to himself and swept out to check on the progress with the paint preparation.




  Sun streamed through the open curtains merrily, dancing on the specs of dust caused by the sudden and violent shake of a thick blanket. The birds outside didn't seem the least bit put off by the activity as the continued singing, heralding the new day. Fluffy white clouds floated in a sea of blue, reminding the beast below of his home as he gazed longingly out the window, catching the twinkle of the small pool catching a burst of sunlight.
  Pawsteps could suddenly be heard coming down the corridor inside and Nitsyok hurried to shake out his blanket and remake his bed. He hadn't slept on it. Lying down for a minute had felt like he was being swallowed up in a dry swamp. Far too soft. What on earth had they packed the matress with. Giving up, the burly warrior had taken a blanket off the bed, folded it and slept on the rush mat covering the ground. Much more comfortable.
  Breakfast had consisted of the leftover shrimp soup, with plenty of hotroot added for extra flavour. It tasted better when the hot plant had been cooked with the soup, but it wasn't bad.
  Now, fully rested and well satisfied, the otter pulled his tunic over his trousers, did up his belt and was ready to collect his sister, who would wait for him in the common room with a staff member.
  Crossing to the door, Nitsyok opened it and strode out, wasting no time in looking for his destination. He'd glanced at the map back in his room and knew exactly what twists and turns were needed for the quickest route, coming to a tidy standstill just inside the door and looking around for his sister.
  A sound on his left alerted him to the presence of another beast and he turned, paw and knife hilt in time for his lightning reflexes to save him from be bowled over completely as a small form hurtled towards him, having taken a flying leap from the reception desk. The otter managed to catch the beast and spun to slow down his momentum, giving the young creature a warm embrace.
  "Y'little rascal! Yer jist about too big te be cummin' at me like that, ty-oof!"
  There was no stopping or saving the three otters as the went down, rolling over each other in their efforts to get up in the midst of the laughter.
  "Ye, Deena, are definitely too big. Ach, broken bones won't help me win, y'know."
  Deena giggled remorselessly, then turned to look at the young one, who was sitting very still, a small cut on his forehead and his brows furrowed, trying to decide what to do. Both older siblings waited with baited breath, hoping the babe wouldn't burst into tears as they tried to conceal their own laughter. His lips began to twitch, then his eyes closed and he roared with laughter, falling forwards with the massiveness of his belly chuckle as his paw drummed the ground in amusement.
  Nitsyok and Deena exchanged a glance, let out a sigh of relief and joined in the infectious sound, smiling broadly. The sound coming out of the tiny otter seemed more like the laugh of a riverhog chief than an otter infant.

Ahhhh. Nothing like a good walk to clear the brain and sharpen a beast's wits, Benlan thought, lightly sliding his paw along the wall as he walked by. Whistling a merry tune, he rounded the bend. His eyes widened as he caught sight of three otters sprawled on the floor. He took a quick step forward. "Are all of you alright?" He stopped abruptly as he recognized Nitsyok.

  Nitsyok looked up at the question of concern, instantly recognising his adversary. Scrambling up, the warrior put himself in between the Axeblood and his siblings, paw an dagger hilt as he glared at the beast.
  "What d' ye want?"

Benlan couldn't help but roll his eyes at the dagger. "Oh, come now. There will be enough of that in the duel." He looked past Nitsyok. "Ah, your kin, I assume?" He smiled slightly at the pair of young beasts.

  Nitsyok slowly took his paw away, his dagger still in its sheath. Apparently the other otter wasn't going for aggression. Probably scared he'd lose.
  "Aye, Axeblood, these are my siblings. Touch them and die. I couldn't care less if we have a duel planned, nobeast hurts my family."

"I wouldn't harm them," Benlan replied, his fur prickling at the other otter's words. "We aren't savages, you know. The only reason we're here is because of you and your tribe's misguided ideals anyway." Benlan closed his eyes and let out a sigh. Letting a beast's stupidity get under his fur was what started this whole thing. He glanced over at the other creatures. "I apologize. Please, could we save the hostilities for later?"

  Nitsyok growled at the mention of his tribe's apparent failings, spitting out his reply vehemently.
  "Wasn't my tribe that decide to kidnap an ottermaid, Axeblood. We may not be savages, but I hold no fantasies about you."
  Having said his piece and deciding not to bandy words with the animal in front of his siblings, he turned and began herding the youngsters back down the corridor. They didn't need to put up with the scum and he wanted them to have as clean minds as possible. He'd keep a close eye on them amd make sure no more of his kin got abducted by the Axeblood clan, to suffer fate knew what.

Benlan opened his mouth to reply but then stopped. Shaking his head and letting out a helpless sigh, he walked back toward his room.

  The meeting had been... interesting, to say the least. Nitsyok's younger sister, Deena, had insisted the warrior apologise to Benlan for something he'd done or said and watched, forepaws crossed and footpaw tapping until he'd done so. Then they'd all taken a seat and the meeting had begun in an orderly manner, with the two competitors being, if not exactly friendly, civil, though Nitsyok continued to refer to Benlan as 'Axeblood' and there was a distinct sense of loathing every time he said it.
  The documents had been signed in due course and things were just wrapping up when there was a loud wail from down the corridor and a young mousemaid, one of the staff member's children, came running in, her startlingly blue eyes blurred by tears. She was followed by an equally young otter who was calling out reassurances and had a bunch of hastily picked flowers in his paw.
  "You picked dem! Dey was s'posed to be for da winna beask and you woowind dem!"
  "Ik tan gwow back! De fwowers weeow gwow and dey weeow yook so pwetty in you hea!"
  Both young ones had been scooped up and calmed down to the point where they'd managed to explain what had happened. Apparently the mousemaid's mother had given her daughter a flower of her own, but it had died. Then, finding her crying, the gallant gentlebeast of an otter pup had tried to cheer her up by picking a whole bouquet for her, but they had been they flowers she was growing to celebrate the winner of the duel.
  After several minutes spent trying to console the miserable and indignant beasts, Deena had volunteered to take them to the kitchen for a pastie, at which they'd both forgotten flowers and gratitude and gone with her happily, holding paws with each other like best friends.
  Thoroughly disturbed, the meeting finished and beasts got back to work on preparations. The following day things continued to progress. Deena and Tyson took it upon themselves to be Nitsyok's personal trainers, making sure the big otter didn't slack in anything. The mischeavous otterbabe had his older brother running loops around the courtyard, calling time with his "##:1057, twewve eight fwee! ##:1057, nine six fouw! ##:1057 twenty hundwed eweven!" and letting the beast stop only for the occasional "watow bweak".
  Deena wasn't much better. She had Nitsyok battering at a pole with his loaded sling, then practice getting out of various wrestling holds, then put her in various wrestling holds and try to stop her getting out. Finally, after an hour or so of strenuous exercise, she had him duel with her, each armed with slings loaded with tightly wrapped and soaked balls of cloth that, hit with enough force, would release a blue or red dye. This helped them tell when a point had been gained. First beast to ten won the match.
  Several rounds of this game were played, then Tyson decreed that it was lunch time and the rest of the day was spent relaxing for the upcoming battle. The two younger siblings gave Nitsyok massages, fetched him food, shined his armour, sharpened his dagger, worked the sling he'd be using for the combat, did anything and everything that would gave him an extra edge. They didn't doubt their brother would win, but the easier it was for him, the better. Nothing was to be left to chance.

  Meanwhile, the arena was being prepared. Tickets were sold, sponsorship signs were painted on the sides, sand was raked smooth, chairs were arranged. Everything was ready by the time the lights were turned off and everybeast went to bed. The duel was to start the next day, four hours after sunrise. Some beasts were nervous, others felt only excitement. Tomorrow, the family feud would be settled once and for all... and one of the tribes would be lacking a young warrior.

  "He WHAT?"
  The shrew ducked, as if to go under the shocked and horrified shout. Of all the days for Dunger's great auntie twice removed and once burried to die, it had to be today.
  "He left. A-Apparently he'll be back as soon as possible, but the funeral is today and he couldn't miss it. Wh-what's going to happen now, Ref Eustace?"
  The officious vole took a moment to regain his composure, smoothing his whiskers and straitening his vest.
  "You'll just need to find a new trumpeteer before ten o'clock. There's nothing else for it! Get going, quickly!"
  "Yes, Ref!"
  Eustace nodded, turning back to the other preparations. The doors would open up in ten minutes. There were already beasts turning up outside, waiting to come in. Early birds were so inconvenient.
  Dismissing the matter, the referee hurried inside, stopping a passing mouse who was carrying a tray of oils and brushes.
  "Are the contestants ready? They need to be out in half an hour. Make sure they have everything they need."
  The mouse threw a casual salute, smiling.
  "Aye, Ref Eustace. I just came from Nitsyok's chambers. His sister and brother are helping him with everything. About to check on Benlan."
  Eustace murmured a quick understanding and let him return to his work, hurrying up a gradual incline to the kitchens and snatching a raspberry pastie from the cooling rack, delicate crumbs showering the floor and plump belly alike.
  "Excellent work! Make sure there are plenty of drinks available too, and no lowering prices! I know how much you beasts like to give away food, but we need to make a profit too!"
  Three squirrels, each with a white cap and an apron, nodded, chorusing their understanding. It wasn't the first time they'd been reminded of this.
  The vole hurried out, catching sight of two weasels with rakes, about to go over the arena one last time. He scurried forwards, about to stop them when he felt a paw on his shoulder and looked down to see a dark volewife smiling up at him, her other paw occupied with their son.
  "Leave them alone, Eust. They know what they're doing. Here, come sit and play with little Stace for a few minutes. You'll be better for it."
  Eustace smiled reluctantly and took the babe from his mate's paws, smiling up at her.
  "Of course, dear."


  The otter warrior sighed contentedly, rolling his shoulders under the firm ministrations of his sister.
  "I really should git ready. Chain mail takes an annoyingly long time to get control of and I want to work it a bit before the fight. Tyson, surely my dagger is sharp enough now. Any more and it'll be reduced to dust."
  Tyson waved the whetstone, shaking his head at his older brother.
  "Not done. S'posed t'get hole in da rock."
  Nitsyok jumped to his footpaws, snatching the knife and stone from the rascal's paws and shaking his head in despair. There were now several nicks in the blade and the whetstone was worn very thin in the middle. Good thing that wasn't the blade he'd be using for combat. It would take half an hour to get that dagger sharp again.
  "Nay, tyke, it's not supposed to have a hole in the rock. Preparation time."
  Pulling the cupboard open, the warrior selected his red tunic and pulled it over his head, taking his cream trousers off as he did so. Deena stood up on the bed, helping to pull the heavy chain mail over the top and arrange it so the creases vanished, her thin paw going underneath to pull the tunic into order so that it was comfortable.
  "Where's your ear ring?"
  Tyson obligingly passed the gold loop up to her, his eyes never leaving Nitsyok's face. Things had suddenly become very serious and busy. Matching red bandana, wide reed belt, dagger, shot pouch, sling.
  "There, you're ready. One hug, then get out there and make us proud."
  Nitsyok scooped Tyson up and the three siblings embraced, a niggling thought stirring in the back of his mind.
  Will I ever hug them again?

  In the arena, Eustace spoke out, drawing his voice into an announcer type length and calling everybeast to order.
  "Caaan I Pleeeaase have your Atttteeeentiooon? Iiiiin the areeena toooday, we have Benlaaaan Aaaaxeblooood and Nitsyooook Saaagnaaaarb! Giive them a waaarm welcome!"

Benlan let out a shaky sigh, adjusting his chainmail shirt and belt. Today was the day.

He closed his eyes as he splashed a pawful of water on his face, shaking a bit from the coolness. He pawed the table surface for his towel, mindful not to spill the basin of water. As he wiped his face with it, his ear twitched as he heard the sound of a floorboard creaking to his left. Dropping the towel from his eyes he jerked backwards as he caught sight of a small beast standing right beside him.

Letting out a cry of surprise, the otter tripped over his own footpaws and crashed into a small table, sprawling out on the floor like a sack of apples.

"A-are you alright, Ben?" Tod's ears flattened back as he looked down on his brother. "I'm sorry I snuck up on you like that..." He gestured to the slightly ajar door. "It was open and I couldn't resist..."

Benlan scrambled back onto his footpaws, a grin plastered on his face. "I'm fine!" His voice was a notch or two higher than normal, so Benlan attempted to clear his throat with a cough. "Ahem, yeah, I'm fine," he repeated in a more normal tone. "What are you doing here? Why aren't you with mother?"

Tod grinned. "I wanted to be here to help send ya off, matey!"

Everything from the bounce in Tod's step to the smile beaming from his face made Benlan's heart plummet. His younger brother didn't doubt in him at all. Benlan struggled to find the words that he wanted to say. The words that he knew would chew on his soul if he never released them. The lack of warning from their father's death had been crushing. He didn't want Tod to have to go through that all over again – just in case things ended for the worse. He opened his mouth then closed it. Then repeated the motion again.

"...Are you sure you're alright?" Tod lifted an eyebrow. "You're acting kinda odd."

"Heh, yeah, I'm fine. Um... Tod." Benrick clasped his brother's shoulder and smiled faintly. "Just... Just in case I don't come out from the ring, I want you to know that you're the best brother a beast could ask for."

Tod blinked. "What are you talking about? Of course you're gonna win. You can beat that ol' Sasgnarb otter any day."
Benlan simply embraced his brother, holding him tight so he couldn't see the tears forming in his eyes. Tod seemed slightly confused, but seemed to inwardly shrug away his doubts as he returned the hug.

A cough sounded from the doorway. "Sorry to intrude," the mouse said as the two otters turned to him. "But everybeast is waiting for you out there."

Benlan pawed at his eyes. "Ahem. Alright, yes. I'm coming." Snatching up his spear and buckling on his short sword, he and Tod followed the mouse as he led them to the ring. The mouse brought them to the end of a hallway, a curtain hung in front of them, blocking their path.

"Once you hear your name being called, just walk right in, Master Benlan," the mouse said. "If it's alright with you, the lad and I should probably leave now," the added, indicating Tod.

When Benlan nodded, the mouse stood off to the side, waiting until after the two brothers once again embraced. Once they were done with their farewells, he clicked his teeth and began to lead Tod down the hallway, saying, "Come, lad. Let's go find you a good place to watch from, 'ey?"

Benlan's mouth was dry even though he had already drunk a decent amount of water. His ears detected the sounds of countless beasts in the arena – some talking and exchanging bets, and other breaking out into arguments as they fought over seating. Mixed smells of heavy perfumes and unwashed bodies seeped in through the curtain. Benlan detected the odor of freshly cooked fish, making him lick his lips unconsciously.

All thought of food was driven from his mind as the shout rang out.

"Caaan I Pleeeaase have your Atttteeeentiooon? Iiiiin the areeena toooday, we have Benlaaaan Aaaaxeblooood and Nitsyooook Sassgnaaaarb! Giive them a waaarm welcome!"

There was a rumbling sound like that of a thousand rolling wooden carts as the beasts in the arena began to cheer. 
Steeling himself, Benlan pushed took a deep breath and pulled the curtain aside, his heart hammering in his chest and his breath stolen away as he went to see what fate awaited him in the ring. 

  Nitsyok Sagnarb pushed the curtain aside and strode confidently into the ring, shoulders back and head held high. The benches were packed with beasts, all cheering and clapping, though most of them were waiting to see how things would turn out before the started picking favourites. The front row of beasts, almost entirely consisting of otters had already decided their champions and were waving various items about enthusiastically, everybeast on his right chanting his name over and over again, while the ones on the left were chanting the name of Benlan.
  From the other side of the arena, another curtain opened and Nitsyok's opponent cane in, looking just about less confident than the Sagnarbian hero felt.
  The otter warrior smiled triumphantly, remembering the his father's saying.
  "Let fear have control and you've already lost."
  This Axeblood seemed to be walking to his death. Silly beast should never have accepted his challenge if he was this much of a coward. Killing him would be doing the world a favour.
  "Go Benlan! You kin do it, matey!"
  Nitsyok glanced sideways, noting that most of the crowd had quieted down to wait, leaving one beast still yelling encouragement at the top of his lungs. The beast in question was young and not very big, his voice had yet to deepen even. He looked quite similar to the ever-nearing opponent and, with a flash of insight, Nitsyok guessed that they must be brothers. Brothers that loved each other and were there for each other through thick and thin.
  Suddenly, Nitsyok wasn't so hungry to taste Benlan's blood and end his life. The other otter became no less of an opponent, but more of a real fellow beast, with a family that loved him. Nitsyok inwardly swore that, if he got the opportunity, he would spare this beast's life.
  Tyson's voice rang out in answer to the encouragement, slightly scornful.
  "No 'e can't! My brudder's a better fighter'n yores anyday!"
  Nitsyok let his mouth curve into a smile. Yes, he'd try to leave Benlan alive, but he wouldn't be losing either. He couldn't disappoint the young tyke.

  Eustace nodded officiously, seeing that both combatants were in place. Raising his voice again, the vole droned out the rules, then gestured to the squirrel beside him.
  "Leeeeeet theeeeee duuuueeeel beeegiiiiin!"
  The squirrel raised a small horn to his lips and blew hard, ears drooping at the pitiful squeak that came out. Ref Eustace would probably duel him himself for that.
  Nitsyok untucked the loaded sling from his belt and advanced to within a few steps of his opponent, eyes never leaving Benlan's. He was quite clearly scared, but Nitsyok could tell he'd follow through to the end. The other otter wasn't running away, nor begging for mercy. A confident smile graced the Sagnarbian's face as both contestants began to circle each other, then Nitsyok feinted a swing to the left of Benlan's head, interested to see how he'd react.

Benlan scrambled back, holding up his spear to block the other otter's blow.

(OOC: Sorry for this being so bloody short.  :P I'm assuming most of the actual fighting posts will tend to be short though.)

(OOC: It's fine. They probably will be, to varying degrees)

  Nitsyok pulled back before his sling had a chance to wind itself around his opponent's spear. It was a tactic that could be used later, but he didn't want to go there just yet.

The Axeblood otter darted forward a few steps, lunging his weapon at Nitsyok's chest.

Nitsyok stepped to the side with ease, closing the gap between the two beasts as he removed his dagger from his belt. Better to be closer. A sling could be used in a crowded space, but a spear would be at a significant disadvantage and would probably just impede the other beast's movements. Giving the Axeblood a fierce grin, Nitsyok made a slash with his knife, aiming to make a shallow cut in the otter's forepaw.

Benlan dodged, but not quite quick enough, his opponent's dagger slicing a nasty scratch along his lower arm. He took a sharp intake of breath, gritting his teeth at the sudden sting. Dropping to his haunches, he scooped up a pawful of sand and flung it at his enemy.

Nitsyok turned his head away and blinked rapidly. Not a huge amount of sand had got in, but enough to make it uncomfortable. He brought his knee up to his crouched opponent's jaw in response and swung down on the beast's head with the hilt of his dagger, still blinking deliberately.

The slimmer otter's jaw smacked closed, the heavy pain bringing tears to his eyes. He grasped his own dagger, not seeing Nitsyok's oncoming blow until it struck him. Luckily, Benlan moved to the side enough that the weapon didn't make a direct hit, instead giving him a painful bruise on his cheek.

Finally getting a hold of his weapon, the otter used it to slash out blindly at Nitsyok, hoping to drive his foe back enough to allow himself time to recover.

Nitsyok winced and stepped back half a pace, taking a relaxed swing at the otter with his sling on the way, the fur on his shin suffering some from Benlan's blade. Allowing himself a quick wince as he felt warm blood seeping from the wound, Nitsyok gave his enemy a congratulatory grin.
"You finally managed to land a hit. For a complete novice, you've done well to survive this long."
His taunt was exaggerated, obviously. He was doing better than the Axeblood, but his opponent was certainly keeping him on his toes. If he had so far managed to appear unfazed, it wasn't a reflection of how he felt at each close dodge.

Growling under his breath, Benlan refused to allow himself to get taunted into making a stupid move, instead rising to his footpaws and scrambling back a ways, taking the brief respite to make sure no serious damage had been done to him. So far, his wounds were painful, but not bad enough to take him out of the fight completely. He licked his dry lips, the taste of blood assailing his tongue.

Nitsyok kept the distance between them, making sure Benlan didn't get far enough away to use his spear effectively. The crucial thing at this point was to manage distance. If the Axeblood got too far away, he would gain an advantage that the Sagnarbian didn't want to give. 
"No response? I assume that means I was correct in my estimation of your skill."

"At this rate, all I need to do is wait until you tire yourself silly from blowing hot air."

Benlan recognized his opponent's thinking. Not enough room would make his spear as good as useless. He either needed more room or he needed to change tactics, and probably discard his spear in the process. The otter held his dagger between his teeth and grasped the shaft of his weapon, stepping forward and thrusting it into his opponent's midriff.

  Nitsyok was forced to let out an explosive whoof of air as the spear shaft was sent at his stomach. The otter doubled over, taking the opportunity to trap the shaft against his chest, using a paw to shove Benlan away as he yanked to the side, taking the spear with him. He considered using it himself, but dismissed the idea along with the weapon. Turning away from his opponent was a mistake.

A second was all the time Benlan needed. Closing the small distance between them, dagger in paw again, the Axeblood sent it into the other beast's shoulder.

  Never turn your back on your oppo-

  Nitsyok didn't have time to remember the rest of his father's instruction as pain exploded in his shoulder. His paw released the sling he held and it fell to the sand. The otter's movement continued, unordered, and he faced the Axeblood once more as his body began to react to the pain.

Benlan didn't wait for his opponent to somehow take advantage of the situation again. His fist flew into the other beast's jaw with a resounding crack. His knuckles wouldn't thank him for it, but the action had the desired effect.

  Nitsyok told himself to keep going. He was beginning to get his body to function again over the pain. His eyes focused, just in time to see Benlan's fist come straight at him. There wasn't time to react as his world went black.

The crowd was silent for a few long seconds, many surprised by the proceedings. Then it erupted in applause, cheering and calling the winning otter's name, some suggesting he finish the loser off, others calling for a speech or offering to take the beast out for dinner.

Benlan grinned at the praise, panting as he held his paws high. He paid special attention to the congratulations of his family, storing each comment in his heart, treasuring every word of it.

Tod yelled loudest of all, his mother smiled at him, his uncle said he'd restored honor to their tribe, calling again for a speech. With a smile, his back to his vanquished enemy, the otter began.

  The Sagnarbian warrior was only out for a second. He gritted his teeth, eyes squeezed shut as he refused to cry out in pain. The crowd began cheering, calling to his opponent and congratulating him on his win. Benlan had won. He'd failed. The pain seemed all the worse when coupled with humiliation.

  But wait... Was he beaten? There had been no shaking of paws, that he could remember, and he was still alive. Could he still do anything or was he too wounded to really move?

  He wasn't. He would continue. Reviewing the space, he considered what he could do. There wasn't a chance he could beat the other beast tooth and claw. Was there anything he could use to take a decisive victory in one, quick move?

  The spear. He'd dropped it in the sand and they hadn't moved much from there. If memory served him well, it should be within paw's reach, slightly to the left, which also worked well, since he could use that paw and not his injured one.

  Reaching up, the otter felt around for the spear. Finding and grasping the shaft, he cracked his eyes open and located his target, then brought the handle swiftly up, pivoting and gaining as much momentum as it could before making contact with Benlan's skull.

"And now you have all witnessed the fact! My family's honor is restor-"

An impact at the back of his head. A very hard impact, in fact. He gave a grunt and fell, vision going black. He could hear the crowd's cheering fade into confused babbling, then Benlan heard nothing as he slipped out of the world of consciousness.

  Nitsyok scrambled upright, checking to make sure Benlan was properly down, then shaking the unresisting paw as Eustace hurried over, calling out excitedly to the crowd, telling them what they already knew.

  "He was down, but not fully! He has come back to claim the victory! Benlan is unable to fight further and the contestants have shaken paws. Nitsyok Sagnarb is the winner!!!"

  Cheers, some louder and some quieter came back in reply. A few beasts still showed signs of open confusion. The Axeblood clan were split between worry and fury. The Sagnarbians, despite the poor referee's instructions to stay calm and out of the arena, all surged forward to congratulate Nitsyok and help him with his injuries. Tod moved to assist his brother, but his mother stopped him with a cool look and continued watching as two of the arena staff came in and bore the downed beast away on a stretcher.

  Nitsyok refused to lie on the stretcher that came out for him, but was persuaded to go have his injuries tended to and was led away by his sister, who continued babbling about his glorious victory. The young warrior couldn't wipe the smile from his face, until, in the infirmary, a busy squirrel began tending to his shoulder and he almost fainted from the pain.

Groaning, Benlan peaked out from behind squinted eyelids. His head throbbed like somebeast dropped a boulder on it.

"You're awake."

Turning over to where the voice came from, Benlan took a few moments to register the emotionless face of Chieftess Shard.

"Mother? Ah." Benlan put a paw to his forehead, looking around. "What happened?" He clenched the blankets. "No, wait... No..."

"You lost." Shard poured herself a glass of wine. "You failed."

"No, no, I couldn't have... I was winning!"

"But you didn't win." Shard took a sip. "I'm taking the clan back home."

"Ugh, I'm going to train more the moment we get back."

"Actually, you won't." The otter straightened up, looming over Benlan. "You've disgraced the honor of the Axebloods one time too many. I cannot let this go unpunished. Starting today, you're banished."

Benlan recoiled as if struck. "I-I..." He closed his eyes, taking in a deep breath. "Will I ever be allowed to return?"

Shard slowly set down her cup. "At the end of each summer, if you have proven yourself worthy, you may be allowed back. Until then, Tod will be my heir."

"Where is Tod?"

"He left. No doubt he's as ashamed as the rest of us."

As Shard headed to the door, Benlan reached out with a paw.

"Wait! Can I not say goodbye?"

Shard hesitated, drumming her fingers on the wooden handle. "Farewell. We'll see you next summer."

With that, the door closed.

OOC:

This has been incredibly fun. Sorry for the sudden dumping of posts, rather than a gradual build-up. We started writing it on Google Docs, for various reasons, so then we agreed to just come on and post them all up later. Voting will stay open for a while yet, as beasts hopefully read and enjoy. Now, though, you will need to consider the writing quality, rather than the character that deserves to win, since Benlan has already lost. *evil laughter*

Aaaanyway, this duel is finally finished. Thank you to Seb, for doing it with me, and everybeast else for reading and enjoying it. *bows and leaves the stage*