Knights of Tezoth

Whatever arguments she might try to make, the sacred meaning of cavalry fighting foot soldiers eluded Alaria. Especially when it came to yawn-inducing battles where some pegasus archer would circle a defenseless warrior and shoot him down with a bow. What daring or martial skill could there be when your mount does half the work for you? No spectacle. No thrill. And you can't even properly hone your skills.

Despite such thoughts, Catharsis had no intention of giving up. If necessary, she was ready to snatch victory with her teeth, even in such an unequal fight. The opponent was undoubtedly more formidable than Stefania, and the Tanarsian herself had less strength at the moment, but that was no reason not to make an effort. Quite the opposite — she could gain something from such an unequal struggle.

In the end, it did not bring her victory — Axel von Himmel proved to be a very talented swordsman — though Alaria did get quite close to him. If the fight with the wyvern hadn't taken so much out of her, she might have even overcome the Gloomy Sky himself. However, then the challenge wouldn't have been so serious. As it was, she learned some lessons herself and gave the arena audience an exciting show.

— Our Deus knows how to pick gallant knights: first Lord Vargas, and now you. It's heartening to hear such high praise from one of today's tournament favorites. And I am doubly glad, — she smiled amiably, — that my beautiful face did not make your hand waver — you wield your sword in a way that is a joy to behold.