Equestrian Requiem; A Hero's Return

“Here we are tent number 3C.” I said reading the small sign on the outside of the tent. However as I was about to enter the tent something suddenly caught my eye. When I turned to see what it was I saw a hooded figure entering one of the other tents. “Was that?” I thought before dismissing it and walking into the tent.

The inside of the tent was full of other competitors all getting ready for the tournament to start. Some were taking a few practise swings and making sure their swords were in good condition while others were putting on light armour. Even though the rules forbid real swords wearing at least some form of armour was recommended to help prevent serious damage. I sat down on one of the benches and took out the armour I brought and began putting it on. It was relatively simple, just slightly modified old football shoulder and knee pads that I could wear under my cloths. After a few minutes a man in a referee uniform walked into the tent carrying a clip board and a small box followed by two men wheeling in a chalkboard that had the numbers one to sixteen on it, arranged into two tournament grids.

“Alright contestants listen up.” The referee said getting every one’s attention. “We will shortly be beginning the preliminary rounds. Before we start however I have been instructed to give you a quick rundown on the rules.” He said looking at his clip board. “Rule number one; No shots to the face or below the belt. Rule number two; Even though this tournament is open to all sword types and styles, all swords and shields must be either wooden or bamboo in the Beginner and Journeyman level competitions. Anyone at these levels caught using a real metal sword or shield will be disqualified. Rule number three; I shouldn't have to tell you this but killing your opponent is forbidden and you will be disqualified for doing so even if it’s accidental. If you break any of these rules you will be instantly disqualified.” The ref explained looking out at the small crowd of contestants. “The winner of each match will be the one to score four clean hits on his or her opponent within fifteen minutes or if your opponent gives up. If there is no clear winner with in the time limit then the winner will be decided by our judges. Only two competitors from each cell block will move on to the quarter-final rounds. Now please form a neat line and one at a time draw a number from this box to find out who you’re up agents. When you’re number is called please proceed to the raised platform in front of the stage so we can begin.”

As instructed we each pulled a slip of paper out of the box and cheeked where it was on the chalkboard. I drew number two so I had the honor of being in the first match for our block.

“When given time to rest, use it as an opportunity to reflect on your choices and focus on the task ahead.” A women’s voice rang through my mind as I sat back down on the bench, closing my eyes and taking a deep breath and slowly letting it out.

“Wait a minute… all my Instructors were guys.” I thought to myself. “Who told me that?”

“Hey you!” A voice said brining me out of my thoughts. I looked up to see one of the contestants standing in front of me with a sly look on his face. “What Number did you draw?”

“Number two, what about you?” I said getting a good look at him. He was about 17, just taller than me with light skin and short blond hair. He was wearing armor similar to what I had but it looked newer and like it was designed specifically for sword fighting.

“Number two? Ha! Looks like you get to be my first victim because I got number one.” he said like it was joke. “And here I thought I would finally get some worthy competition entering this tournament. Oh well, see you in the ring.” he said before walking away.

“Well he’s overly confident.” I thought to myself as I heard the crowd cheer loudly. “Sounds like they're ready to begin.” I said getting ready for when my Number was called.

After a few minutes the Ref called our numbers and I made my way to the raised platform.

“Alright everyone we will now begin the preliminary rounds for Cell Block C.” The Announcer said into a microphone. “Would the contestants please step into the ring?”

As we stepped into the ring from opposite sides I got my first look at my opponents’ weapon of choice; a wooden Chinese Dao Sword.

“Interesting choice of sword.” I thought as I drew my own sword.

“It looks like our contentions are ready to go so let’s get this started!” The Announcer said. The crowd cheered as a bell rang and we began to circle each other.

“Those who are over confident in their skills tend to leave themselves open waiting for their opponents to attack them. The best strategy is to draw them in and have them attack first before countering.” The same female voice from earlier said in my mind, as I noticed that he was indeed leaving himself open.

After a few moments my opponent grew tired of waiting for me to attack and lunged forward. I quickly dodged his attack and quickly slashed him across his chest, scoring the first.

“You'll pay for that.” he said angrily.

“Don't blame me. You’re the one who left yourself open.” I said as we began to circle each other again.

“A mistake I won't be making again.” He said gripping the handle of his sword tighter.

“Never grip you're sword either too tightly or lightly. If you grip it too tightly then it limits the mobility of your sword. Too lightly and the power behind your attack will be drastically reduced and your sword can be knocked out of your hand.” The female voice once again spoke in my mind.

Taking the voices advice I swung my sword like l was going to do a diagonal slice before quickly changing direction, cutting across his ribs horizontally just under his arm when he tried to block. Before I had time to bring my sword back to defend myself however, he swung his sword diagonally hitting me on the on the shoulder blade.

“Ha, what do you think of that!” He said in triumph.

“Your form’s not bad. But how's your footwork?” I asked bringing my sword in front of me. “If I step here…” I said taking a step to the right swinging my sword. “Very good.” I said as he followed me, parrying my swings. “Now I step again.” This time as I stepped he swung his sword and I parried him. “See you’re learning. Shall we work on your form?” I asked as he backed up a bit.

“Shut up!” he said as we began fighting again.

“Parry, parry. Thrust, thrust. Good!” I said as we avoided each other’s attacks. “You left yourself open again.” I said scoring my third point.

“Enough of this!” he yelled becoming enraged. He then jumped back a bit before leaping into the air for a jump attack. I quickly brought my sword in front of me and parried the blow. Our swords stayed locked as we each tried to push the other back. “I’ve never lost!”

“Tisk. Such talent but you let it all go to waste with your over confidence.” I said as I knocked his sword out of his hands and scored the fourth and final point.

“That’s it Folks! Contestant number two has won the first match of cell block C and has moved on to the next round!” The Announcer said as I sheathed my sword.

“Here,” I said holding out my hand to help my opponent up, who had fallen over from pure shock.

“Thanks,” he said taking it.

“Now that’s Sportsmanship Ladies and Gentlemen!” The Announcer said as we shook hands. “That’s how all matches should end. Let us hope that the following matches are just as exiting and honourable!”