Juggerbol! The national sporting pastime of the Fae Realm. As they made their way towards the Juggerbol stadium Antony explained to Kenzi that Juggerbol was a unisex sport where teams from all over the Realm competed for the Grand Championship Circle. Elena, Julian, Jock, Ariella and Dakari and himself had all picked up a love for the game from The Queen, who had once played herself. After they had arrived at the Juggerbol Stadium Antony handed off his escort duties to the Seneschal and left to join his teammates while the Seneschal directed Kenzi to follow them up to the Royal Enclosure both followed by the Regnant Guard. As they made their way, Kenzi took in the surroundings of the stadium itself that reminded her of the Great Atrium. She looked up and saw the many levels going upward with open restaurants and Fae socializing about in all manner dress, and true to Antony's word, no one gave her the odd look or glance.
When she entered the Royal Enclosure Kenzi she was taken aback. It was not the standard cubby hole room that people paid thousands of dollars to sit in just so they didn't have to bump up against ordinary people. It was a 25,000 square foot expanse with 30-foot ceilings with dining tables, serving stations, and scattered seating, decorated with the same elegance as the Presidium private residences. The Seneschal moved in and out of the room through a side door as they finished up preparations. Kenzi realized that, aside from the Seneschal and the Regnant Guard she was the only one there. A long table filled with food and an array of drinks was already set up. She hoped they didn't expect her and Antony to eat it all.
Kenzi continued to survey the room and saw a bank of doors in front her that led to gallery seating overlooking the playing field, and went and opened the set of doors. The gallery seating was rather intimate, at least by Presidium standards. It has ten rows of seating 30 seats deep and the chairs were not stadium box seats that were just one grade above general stadium seating back home, but dark brown chairs staggered apart so no view was obstructed. Kenzi saw the two chairs that obviously belonged to Royal Ruling Couple at the center. They were also wide, dark brown, but were also high-backed.
She went alongside the Royal Chairs and caressed them as she stepped in front of them and leaned over the balcony to look out amongst the crowd. The Juggerbol field, oval in shape, spanned 500 yards. Most stadiums back home had seven tiers of seating from the ground up. Kenzi counted 100 tiers that rounded the open air stadium and packed to the rafters with fans. Kenzi shook her head. The Presidium and no sense of size. What impressed Kenzi even more was the dream seating throughout the stadium. The seats were not those cheap hard, plastic seats in stadiums back home, but the same chairs that were the guest seating inside the Royal gallery. Kenzi realized the stadium seating was designed to accommodate fans in all manner of dress to include those dressed to the nines. Kenzi made a mental to send a picture of the stadium seats back to Liam. May be he could pass it round to his friends in the hopes of influencing future stadium seating designs. The DRM could certainly profit from that.
The crowds nearest to the Royal Enclosure noticed someone was looking out and looked up with hushed voices. Kenzi suddenly became very self-conscious and stepped back inside. She surveyed the food again and decided she wanted to sample of the edibles. As she made way for the food table the doors to the Royal Enclosure opened to admit The Queen Consort, Their Serene Highnesses Maxima and Atia, her Principal Aide, Dyak Claire Nnamani, Agent Neria Pettosami, and Bas Magnar. Kenzi and the Seneschal extended their courtesies immediately and The Queen Consort acknowledged them with a slight bow of her head. Suddenly, Kenzi felt both relieved and pissed; relieved that she felt sufficiently dressed in the presence of The Queen Consort, but pissed that Antony failed to tell her that his mother and most of his siblings would also be part of their first date.
"Hello Kenzi! My, you look amazing tonight." The Queen Consort greeted.
"Thank you, Your Majesty. You all as well. You shall have to forgive me being startled, and dressed this way. I thought Antony and I were just doing dinner. If I knew we were attending a game, I would have dressed differently." Kenzi replied.
"Antony did not tell you?" The Queen Consort asked.
"No, Your Majesty. But when he did I wanted to change, but he said I looked fine and no one would notice." Kenzi replied.
"Well, he was right, and Fae attend these games in all manner of dress. And don't think less of Antony. He gets it from Ari. During our Pilgrimage, Ari took me harvesting and herding for a solid month." The Queen Consort said.
"Your Majesty, The Regnant took you farming during your Honeymoon?" Kenzi asked incredulous.
"I was surprised at first, but then I had come to love it not simply because there is a tranquility to it but because Ari loves it so." The Queen Consort replied.
"Good advice Your Majesty." Kenzi replied. The Queen Consort smiled then turned and went out to the gallery seating and stood in front of her chair followed by her daughters who flanked her.
The air shimmered to display their presence across the stadium. Fans quieted down and extended their courtesies, and when she acknowledged the fans with a slight bow of her head fans recovered and applauded and cheered. She acknowledged the cheers with a long wave and broad smile then sat down in her chair. The applause then died down and fans returned to their cacophony of conversation. Atia then sat in the chair designated for The Regnant on The Queen Consort's left. Dyak Nnamani and Agent Pettosami sat behind The Queen Consort while Bas Magnar took up an observational position in the back. Kenzi smiled at Bas Magnar, the six-foot four, 300-pound Bas that guarded The Queen Consort. Kenzi found it a bit of a joke The Queen Consort, who could destroy entire planes of existence had a bodyguard. The Queen Consort gestured for Kenzi to sit on her right while Maxima sat on Kenzi's right. When Kenzi took her seat between The Queen Consort and Maxima the crowds nearest them took notice.
"Eat me with your eyeballs why don't you?" Kenzi commented.
"Interest is expected. Pay it no mind." The Queen Consort advised.
"Yes, Your Majesty." Kenzi replied then looked around. "May I ask, is The Regnant and their Serene Highnesses Rimma and Emilia coming?"
"Ari may show up later. She and Saladin are meeting with the Grand Strategum. Rimma is meeting with her delegation tonight, and Emilia is conducting an experiment back at the labs." The Queen Consort replied.
"Your Majesty, this stadium is stunning." Kenzi said.
"I'm told you have sporting venues on the human plane?" The Queen Consort replied.
"Yes, Your Majesty but they are sweaty, dirty, uncomfortable concrete stadiums. Cheap seats, horrible food, and let's not even talk about the bathrooms. But this place is a city all its own. And the restaurants, everywhere. This is like a super palace with a field in the middle of it. And, and even this, the Royal Enclosure. A home in it of itself." Kenzi replied.
"Well, if one plans to enjoy a three-hour event you might as well do it comfortably." The Queen Consort replied.
"Your Majesty, you wouldn't mind if I took pictures of this place and send them back to Liam? We could make money influencing future stadium designs back home." Kenzi replied.
"That's what I like about you Kenzi. Always looking for the angle." Atia replied. Kenzi smiled.
Suddenly, the stadium erupted into deafening cheers and applause as the competing teams came out on the field. The teams then spread out and began to stretch themselves while Antony and his siblings ran over in the direction of the Royal Enclosure. They all bowed before The Queen Consort who stood up and blew them a kiss while Atia and Maxima waved. Antony then turned his attention towards Kenzi and waved at her and the crowd took particular notice. Kenzi blushed the deepest red she has ever blushed and waved back. Antony and his siblings then turned and rejoined their team. Kenzi could see Antony's brothers fist-punching him on the shoulder as they made their way back, most likely giving him grief for waving at her.
"Your Majesty, Antony never told me their teams' name." Kenzi said as they resumed their seats.
"They are the Iron Hordes. They are playing against the Jackal Riders. Antony is Captain of the team." The Queen Consort replied while the Seneschal placed a long table in front of them and placed an array of food and drink on it, bowed and stepped away.
"Is there anything he cannot do?" Kenzi commented.
"Cook." Atia replied. Maxima laughed.
"Over thirteen hundred years and still he cannot get it right." Atia said.
"Let's not scare Kenzi off." The Queen Consort chimed in.
"No worries, Your Majesty. It would take a lot to scare me off." Kenzi replied. The Queen Consort smiled back at her.
The stadium darkened as the Announcer's voice boomed across the stadium.
"Welcome to the first round of the Juggerbol Championship series between the Iron Hordes and Jackal Riders!" The fans stood in thunderous applause.
"Let us first offer up our blessings." The Announcer said.
The cheers died down and the crowd stood and recited in unison: "Let us rejoice in our abundant blessings as we are graced in the rule of our Sovereign, recognized before all. Let us offer our devotions for her strength in service to the Realm. Let us offer up our blessings for all those who through strength, fortitude, and courage strive towards victory. Let us walk together, live together in devotion so that we and our lands are blessed with tranquility, prosperity, fertility, and peace. May we be blessed, may we always prosper, and may our lives last long throughout our sunrises and sunsets. Blessings!"
The crowds then erupted into cheers and applause as the air shimmered and the Juggerbol theme music played in the background and a montage of the Iron Hordes and Jackal Riders season games leading up to the Championship series started to play while the Announcer introduced the teams. The whole pace of it reminded Kenzi of NFL football introductions back on her plane.
"Welcome to the most anticipated match up of the Championship series between the Iron Hordes and the Jackal Riders, two of the strongest teams in the history of Juggerbol." The Announcer said as the music and montage played.
"The Jackal Riders hold the best scoring percentage in their division for the past five seasons. They have one of the toughest defensive players in the game in the 8-line in Vargo Sartorius who has led the team in defensive tackles. He is backed up in the 7-line by Carmo Cosalas, considered one of the bloodiest defensive combatants in the game. Not only can he wreck damage on the field, but paired with the merciless Nkiruka Kozlov in the 5-line and Ryuunosuke Takenaka they are masters at converting defensive plays into offensive opportunities. Very few can match the defensive attack of Giustina De Marchis, one of the best rounded defensive players in terms of coverage, conversions, and tackles. The Jackals also possess one of the strongest goalies in the division in the 1-line in Pavel Noguerra who also holds the highest percentage record of defended goals in the division this season." The Announcer introduced.
"The Iron Hordes are one of the top five winningest teams in the history of Juggerbol. Led by Her Serene Highness Elena Prescotti, one of the shrewdest Primaries in the game who also holds the highest completion percentage and the best scoring record inside 40-yard territory.
She is protected by the fierce trio of His Serene Highness Antony Prescotti, Halsar Surko, and Kajsa Sellecchia. The 10-line led Their Serene Highnesses Jock and Ariella Prescotti lead the division in rushing for a combined total of 8,000 yards, and Dante Pallavicino possesses the highest offensive scoring record with a stunning 48 goals. The relentless Iron Horde defense is led by Their Serene Highnesses Dakari and Julian Prescotti, and paired with Yuli Ipiktok and Usha Jakande can break the momentum of any offense. Goalie Mikolaus Tiaton possesses uncanny ability to read the field and one of the strongest at repelling goal zone attacks." The Announcer continued.
"Without a doubt, these two teams are forces to be reckoned with performances that earned them a spot in the Championship series. The battle is on! It's the Iron Hordes versus Jackal Riders in tonight's Juggerbol Championship series!" The Announcer concluded.
The montage that beamed onto the field was replaced by giant sized image of a savage warrior, bearded, clothed in the skins of animals waving a two battle axes, the mascot of the Iron Hordes. The mascot for the Jackal Riders beamed on to the field as a rider sat on a very large Jackal clothed in armor with a pike and shield. They charged at one another and when they collided there was an explosion. When the smoke of the explosion cleared the two teams were suited up, and in their offensive and defensive formations.
"Wow! That was the greatest intro I've ever seen!" Kenzi said.
The Iron Hordes had 25 players on the offensive set in a 10-6-5-3-1 formation spaced 40 yards apart. The Jackal Riders also has 25 players formed in a staggered 8-7-5-3-1 defense formation also spaced 40 yards apart with the goalie being 1-line player behind them. Both offensive and defensive lines had a 100 yards between them called neutral territory. Kenzi noticed the referees were not on the ground, but floated in the air over the teams.
"Well, that's different having the referees float in the air." Kenzi commented.
"How are your referees placed?" Maxima asked.
"On the ground, Your Serene Highness." Kenzi replied.
"How can they see anything?" Atia commented.
"Trust me, Your Serene Highness, that has been an issue in sports for years. How many periods are there?" Kenzi replied. They all smiled.
"Two periods, an hour each. The clock runs continuously though. Doesn't stop for anything." Atia replied.
"So how can you tell who is whom, Your Serene Highness?" Kenzi asked as she strained to figure out where Antony and the Ruling children were placed.
"Here let me show you." Maxima said as she waved into the air and a small screen came up in front Kenzi that displayed banners of the names above each player. "You can see everything that goes on the field from here, even their vitals."
"Vitals, Your Serene Highness? Is that necessary?" Kenzi asked somewhat alarmed.
"It certainly comes in handy. See here on offense, Jock and Ariella start in the 10-line. Dakari starts in the 6-line. Julian starts in the 5-line. Antony starts in 3-line, and Elena is the Primary."
"She's the QB?" Kenzi queried.
"QB?" Maxima asked.
"Quarterback, Your Serene Highness. In football, the QB is the leader of the team on the field who controls who the ball goes to in order to score points. Except you guys do it in armor." Kenzi replied. Maxima smiled.
The referees signaled for the game to begin. Antony who was at center of the 3-line hiked the ball back to Elena. Elena caught the ball and scrambled right as the third and fifth line moved with her. One Horde player broke though the defensive line and charged forward waving their hands. Elena saw them and threw for 75 yards. She caught it and ran forward another 50 yards before she was tackled hard by a Jackal Rider. Kenzi looked at her screen.
"Usha Jakande." Kenzi noted.
"Usha's parents are longtime friends with ours, and one of Elena's dearest friends." Maxima replied.
The offensive line reset itself in Horde territory.
"Wait, they don't huddle? How do they know which plays to run, Your Majesty?" Kenzi asked.
"They determine the strategy of the game before ever coming out on the field. They practice reading one another and the situation on the field and adapting with each play. Much like warrior combat itself. It is one of the challenges of the game." The Queen Consort replied.
Antony hiked the ball back to Elena. Elena dropped back and threw the ball long. The ball found Ariella who caught and ran for 40 yards before she was tackled in neutral territory.
The Horde offense reset. Antony hiked the ball back to Elena. A Rider player got past the 10-line, 6-line and barreled down on the 5-line. Elena threw the ball again to a Horde player that made it past the 7-line of defense only to be tackled at the 5-line of defense.
"That's Yuli Ipiktok. His parents are also longtime friends with our parents." Atia said.
The offensive line reset in Rider territory. Elena called for the ball. Antony hiked it back to her and she scrambled backwards and saw a receiver and threw for another 55 yards. The receiver caught the ball, did a quick zig zag, then charged forward about 60 yards and then quickly threw the ball towards the goal. The ball just snuck past Rider goalie Noguerra into the goal zone and the Hordes scored. The stadium cheered.
"Well that run was easy." Kenzi commented.
"That is the normal pace of Juggerbol. The starting offense almost always scores. Allows teams to get settled." Maxima replied.
"The scorer is Kajsa Sellecchia. She's one of Ariella's dearest friends. Her parents too are friends with our parents." Atia said.
The Riders formed up on offense. Kenzi noticed that none of the players had left the field but instead took up defensive positions.
"Wait, the offense also plays defense?" Kenzi commented out loud.
"Yes." Atia replied.
The Riders offense lined up in the 10-6-5-3-1 formation and the middle player in the 3-line hiked the ball back to the Primary.
"That's Vargo Sartorius. Captain of the Jackal Raiders. He's brilliant!" Atia said with admiration.
"And a great admirer of Elena's." Maxima added.
"Are they dating, Your Serene Highness?" Kenzi asked.
"She has to give him the time of day first." Atia replied. They all smiled.
"The Rider Primary is Carmo Cosalas. He is ruthless." Maxima said.
Cosalas fell back deep as the Horde offense barreled down on him. He saw that one of the Riders had broken though the defense and waved their arms. Cosalas threw for nearly 90 yards and found a receiver who then turned and ran for another 20 yards before they were tackled.
"That was Ryuunosuke Takenaka." Maxima said.
The Rider offense reset. Kenzi looked at her screen. Dakari, Julian and Ariella were lined up in the 8-line, Pallavicino was in the 7- line with Elena, and Ipiktok was in the 5-line with Antony. Jock was in the 3-line with Jakande, and Tiation in the 1-line as goalie.
Sartorius hiked the ball back to Cosalas who dropped back looking for receiver through the mad scramble of 50 players moving all over the field. He saw a receiver straight ahead and threw 50 yards. The receiver caught the ball then quickly turned and threw for the goal but the shot was deflected by the goalie.
"That's Mickey!" The Queen Consort said.
"Mickey, Your Majesty? You call him Mickey?" Kenzi queried.
"There are no Mickeys on the Human plane?" The Queen Consort asked.
"Oh yes, Your Majesty. Quite a few. It's just rare to hear a Fae being called by a nickname here." Kenzi replied. The Queen Consort smiled.
"Mickey is one of my favorite players." The Queen Consort said.
The Rider offensive reset and Sartorius hiked the ball back to Cosalas who quickly found a receiver who then twirled into the air and caught Tiaton on off-footing and threw the ball into the goal zone. The stadium cheered. They could see Tiaton berating himself for the mistake.
The Hordes lined up on offense, but Elena was pacing left to right in the backfield.
"What's she doing?" Kenzi said out loud.
"Elena does that sometimes to get a lay of the field." Maxima replied.
Elena then lined up behind the 3-line and called for the ball. Antony hiked the ball to her and she quickly threw the ball to Jock who caught it and ran for another 30 yards before he was tackled in neutral territory.
The Hordes reset. Elena paced again in the backfield then set herself and called for the ball. Antony hiked it back to her and she fell back, then ran right, she pointed in the direction of one receiver but then quick threw 40 yards to another receiver who caught it and ran for 15 yards before they were tackled still in neutral territory.
The Hordes reset. Elena paced for yet a third time as if she were looking for something. She then lined up behind Antony and called for the ball. She fell back about ten yards while the offense held the defense. She saw her line of attack and threw the ball hard and sharp straight ahead. Julian caught the ball then quickly pivoted and threw the ball into the goal zone for a score. The stadium cheered. The score was 2-1.
The Riders set up on offense. Cosalas called for the ball. Sartorius hiked the ball back and Cosalas quickly threw the ball forward 40 yards to one of his open receivers. They caught it and ran for 60 yards before they were tackled.
The Riders reset again. The ball was hiked back to Cosalas who fell back about 10 yards and then bombed the ball down the field to one of his receivers. Kenzi looked down at the player tracking screen. The ball was caught by Giustina De Marchis who ran for another 20 yards before she was tackled well inside Horde territory.
The Riders reset again. Cosalas stomped his foot a couple of times as he called for the ball. Sartorius hiked it to him and Cosalas fell back for about five yards then threw for 40 yards to one of his receivers who turned and threw towards the goal zone but was deflected by Mickey Tiaton.
The Riders reset again. Cosalas again stomped his foot a couple of times, and called for the ball. He fell back and hung there for a long moment then saw the receiver he wanted to see who was Sartorius himself. He threw the ball hard for 30 yards to Sartorius. The action caused Tiaton to come out to face him on defense, but just as Sartorius caught the ball her whirled and threw the ball into the goal zone. The stadium erupted.
For the next forty minutes both teams seemed to exchange goals but when Kenzi looked at the score it was 11-8 in favor of the Riders.
The Hordes reformed up on offense and this time Sellecchia hiked the ball back to Elena who decided to run with the ball. The offensive 5-line and the 3-line covered her as she went, but a Rider player quickly broke through the 10, 6, and 5 offensive lines. Elena saw the oncoming defensive player and shifted left in her run. The defensive player followed suit and tackled Elena in neutral territory and the ball got loose. The stadium roared.
"That's Nkiruka Kozlov." Atia said.
Another defensive player came up and scooped up the ball and ran towards the goal zone and threw the ball in for an easy defensive score. The stadium cheered. Elena clearly was not happy. The score was 12-8.
The Hordes reformed on offense again. Again, Sellecchia hiked the ball back to Elena who again decided to run with the ball rather than throw it. She shot straight forward and had cleared 45 yards before being stopped in a gaggle of defensive tackles.
Elena quickly got up and signaled for the offense to reset quickly. The Hordes offense reset and hiked the ball to Elena who saw Jock in neutral territory. She fired the ball straight to him. Jock caught it but was immediately tackled hard by Cosalas still in neutral territory.
Elena quickly ran up to Jock's position and signaled for a quick reset again. Sellecchia hiked the ball back and Elena scrambled and saw a Horde receiver. She bombed the ball and the receiver caught 40 yards deep in Rider territory.
Elena ran up again to where the ball was caught and signaled for another quick reset. Antony hiked the ball, and instead of scrambling Elena ran straight up the middle and fired the ball at the Rider goalie, but Noguerra deflected it easily. Elena called for a quick reset again.
"What's she doing? Trying to kill her own team?" Kenzi commented out loud.
"This is Elena when she's determined." The Queen Consort replied.
Elena called for the ball and when Antony hiked the ball, she fell back. Antony caught his defender off foot and charged past him. Elena saw Antony down field and threw the ball. Antony caught it, turned and then quickly pivoted left. As the defense followed him he saw Ariella to his right and threw the ball to her, and as if the ball was a hot potato she quickly threw straight for the goal zone. The ball sailed past Noguerra and into the goal zone. The stadium cheered. The score was 12-9.
"Don't they get a rest, Your Majesty? Especially after that run?" Kenzi asked.
"If they choose, but one of the tactics of the game is to keep players running, particularly since the clock stops for nothing." The Queen Consort replied.
"Juggerbol is a warrior's game." Maxima added.
The Riders lined up on offense. Sartorius hiked the ball back to Cosalas who fell back deep and threw the ball deep. The ball was intercepted by Antony who ran for the goal defended by the 10-line. When he was within striking distance Noguerra came out to meet him, but Antony did a quick pivot and threw the ball into the goal zone. The stadium roared. The score was 12-10.
The Riders lined up on offense again. Sartorius hiked the ball back to Cosalas who fell back short and threw the ball for 40 yards. It was caught by a Rider receiver who ran for 20 yards before they were tackled.
The Rider offense reset. Sartorius hiked the ball back to Cosalas who fell back saw a receiver deep in neutral territory and bombed the ball. The receiver caught the ball and ran for another 40 yards deep before they were tackled. They were decidedly in Horde territory.
Cosalas employed the same tactic that Elena did and called for a quick set up. Sartorius hiked the ball back to Cosalas who fell back and threw the ball to one of his receivers who ran the ball and then saw Takenaka and tossed the ball sideways to him. Takenaka charged towards Tiaton and Tiaton met him. Takenaka did a quick pivot to throw Tiaton off and threw the ball towards the goal zone. Tiaton anticipated the pivot and out-stretched his hands far enough to tip the ball out and away from the goal zone. The stadium roared and went to their feet.
"Ten minutes left until halftime." Atia said.
The Hordes were on offense and the 3-line lined up. Kenzi looked down at her player tracker.
"Halsar Suroko is hiking the ball this time." Kenzi noted.
"One of Antony's closest friends." Maxima replied.
Elena called for the ball and Suroko hiked it back to her. She saw Julian sprint straight-forward and threw to him. Julian caught the ball then turned and ran for another 20 yards before he was tackled still inside their own territory. The Hordes casually walked up to reset.
"Are they finally tired?" Kenzi said.
"More of a tactic." Atia replied.
Suroko hiked the ball to Elena who fell back and found a receiver who ran for thirty yards before being tackled still their own territory. The Hordes casually walked up to reset again.
Elena caught the hiked ball and fell back to pass, but there were no open receivers and decided to run it herself and ran for 25 years before being tackled still in Horde territory.
Elena got up and glanced at the clock as the Hordes offense reset again. Elena called for the ball and dropped back and saw Jakande to the left about 40 yards down. She fired the ball to Jakande who caught the ball and ran another 60 yards, placing the Hordes decisively in Rider territory. Elena looked up at the clock again as the Hordes reset.
"If this is slow reset is a tactic it's a confusing one. They act like they're tired." Kenzi commented.
Elena called for the ball but this time remained stationary and casually tossed the ball off Antony on her right. Antony gripped the ball and ran straight down along the right of the field he cleared another 40 yards before he was tackled by Sartorius.
Elena glanced at the clock again. They were down to less than five minutes. Elena called for the ball and fell back. Deep.
"She's going too far back!" Kenzi said as she straightened up in her chair.
The defense pushed into the offense line and were just about to barrel down on Elena when she fired the ball to a receiver near the Rider goal zone. The receiver caught the ball and Noguerra came out to tackle but as he lunged the receiver leaped over him and fired the ball into the goal zone. The stadium erupted.
"Dante Pallavicino. Amazing player." Atia said.
Now The Queen Consort sat on the edge of her seat and looked at the clock. They were down to less than three minutes and the score was The score was 12-11.
"The Hordes have to score again." The Queen Consort commented.
"Why, Your Majesty?" Kenzi asked.
"It's long-range tactics. The rule is you must be tied in the first half as well as the second in order to go into the Death Half." The Queen Consort replied.
"That's quite the rule, Your Majesty." Kenzi replied.
"More like tactical insurance." Maxima replied.
"They're still down by one point with three minutes left. The Riders have the ball on offense. Can't they drag it out?" Kenzi asked.
"They have to enter Horde territory first then they can run out the time." Maxima replied.
"So Your Serene Highness, what happens if they don't make it into Horde territory by the time the clock runs out?" Kenzi asked.
"Then the Hordes get the ball and however long it takes them to reach Rider territory and attempt to score is deducted from the clock during the second half." Maxima replied.
"Ouch!" Kenzi blurted. The Queen Consort, Maxima and Atia all chuckled.
"It's a motivator for sure." The Queen Consort replied.
"So Elena was playing tactics at slowing down that last offensive run." Kenzi surmised.
"And she hopes it will pay off." Atia noted.
"Shrewd. Very shrewd." Kenzi commented.
"Yes it is." The Queen Consort replied. "But it up to the Hordes defense now."
Stadium fans were on their feet. The Rider offense came out quickly as Cosalas dropped back and threw the ball for 40 yards. One of his receivers caught it and ran it for another 35 yards.
"That's Giustina De Marchis. Her father is an Ensi within the LauDessar Dynasty." Maxima said.
Cosalas called for a quick reset as he glanced up at the clock. Time was ticking down with less than two minutes. The ball was hiked to him and he dropped back, he saw a receiver downfield and threw the ball. The receive caught it and ran for another 40 yards before being tackled by Dakari.
Cosalas ran up to the line quickly calling for another quick reset. The ball was hiked back to him and he saw Takenaka and threw to him. Takenaka caught the ball but was hit immediately by Julian, popping the ball out of his hands and out of bounds.
Cosalas called for the offense to set up again as he looked at the clock. Less than a minute to go. The ball was hiked to him and he fired it off immediately. Noguerra caught and made it into neutral territory. The stadium roared to the point it was nearly deafening. The Queen Consort, Atia, Maxima and Kenzi all stood up.
Cosalas called for the offense to set up again as he looked at the clock. Less than 30 seconds. The ball was hiked to him and he dropped back. He saw De Marchis and threw to her. She caught but was hit hard by Ipiktok and then ball came out. Jakande was right there and caught the ball in mid-air and started running for the Rider goal zone. She was flanked by Antony and Ariella as Sartorius and Cosalas were the only in their path. Jakande threw the ball sideways to Antony who pivoted to avoid Cosalas from tackling him then he threw the ball. Jakande blocked Sartorius long enough for Antony to throw the ball to Jock and Jock threw towards the goal zone. It went in. It was tied up 12-12. The stadium erupted as the last seconds ticked off and the horn sounded.
"Halftime." Atia said.
"This is where we adjourn to the Reception Room to receive dignitaries and special guests who take this opportunity to visit the Royal Enclosure during halftime." Maxima said.
"I will join you all shortly. I want to check in on Ari." The Queen Consort said as she exited through a door on the left with Dyak Nnamani, Agent Pettosami and Bas Magnar behind her.
"How long is halftime, Your Serene Highness?" Kenzi asked.
"An hour." Atia replied.
"Wow! In that amount of time one could actually go to dinner and be back for the game." Kenzi commented then looked around. "Your Serena Highness, by the way, where are the tailgaters?" Kenzi asked.
"Tailgaters?" Atia countered.
"Ah! This one I know. Vex told me. It's where humans congregate outside the stadium in their…automobiles and eat and drink before a game." Maxima replied.
"We do not have tailgaters." Atia replied. Kenzi smiled.
Atia and Maxima then led the way into a room on the right that was the size of a ballroom, and when the doors opened they were greeted by extended courtesies of the hundreds of dignitaries present.
"Let it all begin." Atia whispered as she and Maxima acknowledged the courtesies. Kenzi smiled.
The first set of dignitaries to approach were Grand Ducal Thoedosia de Morvois accompanied by Grand Ducal Darius Vale.
"Your Serene Highnesses." Theo greeted and she and Darius extended their courtesies.
"Theo, lovely to see you again." Maxima greeted.
"You as well. Ms. Malikov. Nice to see you again." Theodosia replied as walked up closer to Kenzi and proceeded to tower over her.
"You as well, Your Excellency." Kenzi replied.
"I see you are a guest of the Ruling Family?" Theodosia asked.
"Yes, Antony asked me." Kenzi replied.
"Juggerbol is in Antony's blood. How are you enjoying the game? Theodosia asked.
"It's different." Kenzi replied
"Well, it's a warrior's sport after all." Theodosia said.
"So what everyone keeps saying." Kenzi replied.
"So Ms. Malikov I understand you are nearly complete with your Agency training?" This came from Grand Ducal Darius Vale.
"Yes, Your Excellency." Kenzi replied.
"The field assignment always proves quite…challenging." Darius said.
"So I understand." Kenzi replied.
"I take it you are up to the task?" Darius asked.
"It would not be the first time, Your Excellency. Or will it be last." Kenzi replied evenly.
"Well said." Darius complimented.
"Well, if you will excuse us. I see some dignitaries I need to corral before the Convocation. Please give Antony my love." Theodosia said as they all extended their courtesies and left. Kenzi's shoulders slumped a bit.
"Don't let Theo get to you." Atia said.
"You have to wonder, though. Why me? I mean, look at her. She's tall, stunning, smart, and is a Grand Ducal." Kenzi said.
"Do not sell yourself short. You are beautiful, smart, brave, honest, and downright funny." Atia replied. Kenzi flashed Atia a weak smile.
"I agree. Don't let her intimidate you." Another woman said from behind. Kenzi turned to see a beautiful, long, dark-haired woman with green eyes, and a very svelte body, dressed a very form fitting black evening dress.
"She's just jealous that another has captured Antony's attention. Besides, I have been curious to meet you as well. Your Serene Highnesses." The lady said as she extended her courtesies to Maxima and Atia.
"And whom might you be?" Kenzi asked.
"My apologies. I should have introduced myself first. My name is Belliveau. Noella Marquis Belliveau."
"Marquis? Same as Evony's. I mean the Grand Ducal's." Kenzi said.
"I surely hope so. She's my sister." Noella replied. Kenzi's mouth dropped.
"Well, I can see that Evony never mentioned she had family." Noella said.
"She nor Trick ever mentioned the Presidium existed let alone family."
"So typical of my older sister."
"Noella!" Came a shout. Noella turned around.
"Rein! Do come and meet this lovely creature." A man approached, six-foot tall, short dark hair, dressed in sharp attire, and armed with a dashing smile that could melt any woman.
"Your Serene Highnesses." He bowed, and when acknowledged kissed Maxima and Atia's hands. Then he turned and faced Kenzi.
"And whom might this be?" Rein asked flashing his debonair smile.
"This is Kenzi Malikov." Noella introduced. Rein took Kenzi's hand and kissed it.
"The Princess Royal's human friend. You are quite right sister. She's a lovely creature indeed."
"You're Evony's brother?" Kenzi said surprised.
"In the flesh." Rein replied.
"And quite debonair." Kenzi complimented.
"Well, of course. I'm a Marquis!" Rein replied again with a flashing smile.
"So how is Evony? We haven't see her in hundreds of years." Noella asked.
"You didn't see her when she was here for Trick's installation?" Kenzi asked surprised again.
"Trick?" Noella queried.
"His Excellency Rana McCorrigan." Maxima clarified.
"We had hoped she would visit us in Lacommande, but we informed by her Deputy Alesandese she was too busy. In any event, please let her know that we expect to see her during the Convocation." Noella added.
"Rein, Noella! How lovely to see you again!" The Queen Consort greeted as she approached the group.
"Your Majesty." They replied as they extended their courtesies. Helen acknowledged them with a slight bow of her head.
"And The Queen?" Rein asked.
"Ari is unable to make it for the rest of the game." The Queen Consort replied.
"We had hoped to speak with Her Majesty on a matter." Rein said.
"Can I help?" The Queen Consort asked.
"Your Majesty, of course. Always." Rein replied.
"So what is the issue?" The Queen Consort asked. Rein glanced at Kenzi.
"You can speak freely here." The Queen Consort replied.
"We have an agreement with Grand Ducal Savva that was guaranteed by then Primus Cocher that is now being scrutinized by Primus Guilloy. It is putting my business affairs at risk enough to concern my associates as to whether I can deliver." Rein explained.
"Is this is a historical agreement?" The Queen Consort asked.
"Yes, Your Majesty. It was an opportunity that presented itself and I took advantage of the opportunity."
"What's the opportunity?" The Queen Consort asked.
"Genetics, Your Majesty. There is a fairly new regime that supposedly can heighten the abilities of Fae. Amplify them if you will." Rein replied.
"Researchers have been trying to develop synthetically what is bred naturally for centuries. What's so promising about this latest effort?" The Queen Consort said.
"Successful test cases, Your Majesty." Rein replied.
"Really?"
"Yes, Your Majesty. Granted, more research will still need to be had but from initial test cases the work is more than promising." Rein replied.
"Which conglomerate is conducting the research?" Maxima asked.
"The Viofynne Conglomerate, Your Serene Highness." Rein replied.
"So what do you need?" The Queen Consort asked.
"The Viofynne Conglomerate hopes to present their findings before the Research Committee within the Council of Healers during the Convocation. If I cannot guarantee visibility, they will think I have no leverage at all, and thus cannot deliver on my end of the agreement." Rein replied.
"And can you?" The Queen Consort asked pointedly.
"Not with Primus Guilloy as an impediment. I need it removed, and then I can renegotiate my agreements with Grand Ducal Savva, and the Viofynne Conglomerate will feel comfortable about the remaining pieces falling into place." Rein replied.
"So your true intent is to ask The Queen to provide that visibility." Atia said.
"Yes, Your Serene Highness." Rein replied.
"I will have Julian look into it." The Queen Consort replied.
"Thank you, Your Majesty." Rein replied.
"Will you join us for the second half?" The Queen Consort asked.
"It would be our honor, Your Majesty." Noella replied. Then Noella and Rein extended their courtesies and when acknowledged by The Queen Consort turned and left.
"It's a traditional practice to invite selected guests to join us during the second half in the Royal Gallery." Maxima explained.
"Seems that Rein has gotten himself in another fix again." Atia said.
"That happens often, Your Serene Highness?" Kenzi asked.
"Rein isn't the most saavy of businessmen, but he knows the Convocation can prove quite advantageous. Besides, Ari promised to look after Evony's family after she'd left." The Queen Consort replied.
"Your Majesty, I honestly don't know how you and The Queen do it all." Kenzi replied.
"Ari and I have a lot of help. To include yourself." The Queen Consort replied. Kenzi smiled.
The room suddenly bustled as the crowds parted for an ornately dressed dignitary Kenzi had never seen before. He was about six foot, five, about 300 pounds, had deep grey skin and heavy lids over his dark black eyes. His face was broad and he had gills. Everyone bowed in the room bowed before approaching dignitary with the exception of The Queen Consort, Atia and Maxima. Kenzi had never witnessed that before. When he came before The Queen Consort he bowed before The Queen Consort, however, Atia and Maxima curtsied before him. Kenzi was floored but quickly followed suit.
"Rajah Uhane, your presence honors us." The Queen Consort greeted.
"Your Majesty, you are as beautiful as ever." Rajah Uhane replied as he kissed her hand.
"Rajah Uhane, this is Ms. MacKenzie Malikov. Best friend to her Royal Highness, and guest of Rana Prescotti tonight." The Queen Consort introduced.
"A human! I have never met a human before." Rajah Uhane replied.
"Kenzi, Rajah Uhane is the Monarch of the Utticus Plane." The Queen Consort said.
"The water plane. Amazing to meet to you, Your Excellency." Kenzi replied. Rajah Uhane's face furled.
"Apologies, Rajah Uhane. Kenzi, Rajah Uhane is properly addressed as Your Supreme Excellency." The Queen Consort corrected.
"My apologies, Your Supreme Excellency." Kenzi said and curtsied again. That seemed to appease Rajah Uhane. Behind him another Fae approached that looked similar to him.
"This is Usasas. My representative here." Rajah Uhane introduced to Kenzi, and she smiled in return.
"The Queen?" Rajah Uhane inquired.
"I must extend Ari's apologies. She and Saladin are in meetings and will not be here tonight." The Queen Consort replied.
"I was hoping to speak with Her Majesty on several matters to include this proposal of the 25th Delegation." Rajah Uhane replied.
"There will be plenty of opportunities to do so during the Convocation." The Queen Consort replied.
"None so prime as the moment, Your Majesty." Rajah Uhane said.
"Will I do?" The Queen Consort asked.
"Your Majesty, of course, always." Rajah Uhane replied.
"Good." The Queen Consort took him by the arm. "Let us enjoy some refreshments and you can discuss your concerns with me." Then they walked to another part of the room followed by Usasas, Dyak Nnamani, and Agent Pettosami.
Then three ladies suddenly popped out of nowhere and quickly curtsied, and when they recovered greeted Maxima and Atia with deep hugs, slight jumping, and screams. Kenzi's eyes went wide as thought she was back in a sorority house again.
"Kenzi this is Bettina and Morgana." Maxima introduced. Kenzi knew she was in a sorority house now, and a very elite one at that.
"Bettina is the daughter of the Ehrenborgs, old friends of our parents. Morgana is the daughter of Grand Ducal Ashbridge."
"So this is the famous human?" Sloane replied.
"Yes I am." Kenzi replied.
"You look good enough to eat." Morgana said.
"I hope that's not literal." Kenzi replied. They all laughed. Suddenly Kenzi felt a need to escape.
"Your Serene Highnesses, ladies if you will excuse me I see a bar with my name on it." Kenzi said as she smiled, performed a quick curtsey and left.
Kenzi headed to the nearest bar, grabbed a drink, and decided to mingle about when she staggered to a stop. She shook her head as all the conversations in the room had suddenly amplified in her ears. Kenzi panicked and cursed in her mind that whatever was going with her this was not the time to rear its ugly head.
The she heard "…at that County of theirs." Kenzi furrowed her eyes, and looked around to see who was talking but she couldn't pinpoint it.
"Has it been secured?"
"I've been told that it has been. Now it just a matter of time before a second strike can be initiated."
"What about our other initiative?"
"Going well. Stage two will reveal itself soon."
"That dirty little human plane is proving to be quite useful. It was brilliant of you to test the toxin there first."
"With all of the environmental problems there what's one more. Being able to weaponize the toxin there and bring it back serves our purposes. And CHP still remains baffled by what's happening in Nassoria. Once the toxin has bbenfully deployed we can strike again."
"What about Evony?"
"We can offer her an opportunity to capitulate or die."
"She won't betray The Queen."
"Time can either heal or sharpen the blade."
"And what about Fitzpatrick?"
"He sealed his own fate when he returned."
"His…abilities could still prove useful."
"It is because of his abilities that we need to get rid of him. We can strike any time, but preferably on the human plane. That way, the humans are blamed."
"When?"
"I planned to…"
"Kenzi?" Kenzi twirled around. It was Atia.
"Your Serene Highness?" Kenzi replied while she looked around quickly.
"Are you okay?" Atia asked.
"Yeah, I'm okay, Your Serene Highness, thank you. I was just day-dreaming." Kenzi replied.
"Well, you have half the room looking at you." Atia informed. Kenzi looked around and indeed everyone nearby was looking at her.
"Didn't notice." Kenzi said. "I thought you were visiting with your friends, Your Serene Highness."
"Maxima and I invited them to the Royal Gallery so we can visit more there." Atia replied. Kenzi said nothing as she looked around to see if she could identify where the conversation she overheard was coming from.
"Kenzi, are you sure you're okay? With all of this? Atia asked. Kenzi looked at Atia for a moment then decided not to fill her in on what she heard, but rather decided to deflect instead.
"The Presidium is still all so very surreal like I'm waiting to be woken out of my dream state by a Baku. If it weren't for the fact that we still have our connections back home with our friends, with the Clubhouse, the DRM, and the JFM I would think we've all died and went to Fae heaven." Kenzi replied.
"Is that so bad?" Atia queried.
"Your Serene Highness, you have no idea where we all started, and now to have all of this. Bo has found her destiny, and up until then we all had been so focused on that. Now that destiny had turned the lense upon us, none of us are sure what our futures will hold." Kenzi pondered
"You need to realize the Presidium is as much your home now as The Princess Royal's." Atia said.
"I know. It will just take some time that's all." Kenzi replied.
"Well, then why don't you join up at the bar. I need a drink and then you can be my...what do you call it? Wingman? While I deal with dignitaries."
"It would be my pleasure, Your Serene Highness." Kenzi said as they dived into the crowded room.
The horn for the second half sounded as The Queen Consort, Atia, Maxima, and Kenzi resumed their seats in Royal Gallery, this time they were joined by a host of dignitaries, friends, and family members of players on the field. They were also joined by Noella and Rein, Rajah Uhane and his entourage, Bettina and Morgana, and a hundred other notables.
"Now this is where it gets really interesting." Atia said.
"Oh, I also spoke with Rimma. She's still meeting with her delegation, but Emilia is out with Bo tonight." The Queen Consort informed.
"Somebody finally pulled her out of the lab?" Maxima commented incredulous.
"Rimma's doing." The Queen Consort replied.
"Here Serene Highness is that dedicated?" Kenzi asked.
"She can become so consumed she forgets days have passed. It worries Ari and I at times." The Queen Consort replied.
"Lauren is like that too. Seems they're kindred spirits." Kenzi said.
Darkness suddenly descended over the stadium and the horns blew again and drumbeats pounded. The stadium stood up and repeatedly chanted "Victory!" Then a screen shimmered as the mascot for the Hordes came on and clanged the two battle axes in his hands together. The mascot for the Jackal Riders snorted as the two images raced for one another and clashed in an explosion of light. The stadium lights returned to normal as both teams were already lined up on the field.
The Hordes formed up on offense and Riders formed up on defense, but this time their 5-line
lined up side by side with 7-line. Kenzi's eyes furrowed. Then Sartorius pressed something on his uniform and a second layer of armor morphed over it. Both the Horde and Riders players followed suit. Kenzi's eyebrows went up.
Elena called for the ball and Suroko hiked it back to her. She fell back deep looking for a receiver. Kenzi's eyes went wide when she saw the Rider defense run forward and had deployed fighting shields. Kenzi shot up out of her chair and pointed.
"They can't do that! That's cheating!" Kenzi exclaimed. The entire gallery in the Royal Enclosure broke out into laughter. Kenzi looked around slightly embarrassed as she resumed her seat.
"Kenzi, they can very much do that. It's part of the game. During the second half teams can escalate to the next stage, if they so choose." Maxima informed.
"Oh." Kenzi said. "I thought this was a game, not something out of 'Gladiator'!" The gallery continued to laugh.
Elena threw the ball to Tiaton who ran for 55 yards before being tackled by a defensive player. The Rider defense reset with the same formation and with shields.
The Hordes reset on offensive and Elena called for the ball. Suroko hiked the ball again and instead of falling back Elena charged straight down the middle. She saw one of the defensive Riders barreling down on her and shifted left. She saw Dakari was open and threw 40 yards to him. Dakari caught the ball but as he soon as he turned he was knocked back by the shield of a Rider defensive player.
The Hordes reset again. The ball was hiked this time by Sellecchia. Elena quickly did a low throw to Antony who was being protected by Suroko running in front of him. They ran forward for about 45 yards when Kozlov came at Suroko with her shield turned it at an angle and made a slashing motion. The move opened up Suroko's armor. And his chest. Kenzi's hands went to her mouth shocked.
Suroko laid on the field but the game continued as Antony ran for another 20 yards before he was tackled. Antony quickly got up and ran towards Suroko but Suroko's armor started to glow and then he disappeared off the field.
"Where'd he go?" Kenzi asked.
"Medical." Atia replied.
"Presidium Medical?" Kenzi queried.
"No. The local medical facilities here are equal to that of Presidium Medical." Atia replied.
"Will he be alright?" Kenzi asked.
"He'll be fine. He constantly gets injured though Gloriane will be as dramatic as ever." Noella replied.
The Hordes offense reset. Sellecchia hiked the ball back to Elena who fell back and saw Ariella and threw the ball for 50 yards. Ariella caught the ball and ran for another 40 yards before she was tackled by Takenaka.
The Hordes offense quickly ran up and as they ran up Elena tapped both of her forearms. The Hordes offense then deployed arm armor with blades. Sellecchia hiked the ball back to Elena who quickly threw to Ipiktok. He jumped into the air to catch it just as a Riders player charged at him in a sweeping motion with his shield. Ipiktok flipped over him and with his free arm slashed the defenders back sending him quickly to the ground. Ipiktok ran forward another 25 yards before he was tackled. The injured Rider defender was transported off the field.
Elena called for a quick huddle again. Sellecchia hiked the ball and she fell back deep looking for a receiver. The Rider defense was barreling down but she continued to scramble until she finally saw the player she wanted - Antony. She bombed the ball to him. He caught the ball, turned and just as he fired the ball straight for the goal zone he took a vicious hit from Cosalas's shield. Kenzi gripped the ledge in front her. The goal shot was deflected by Noguerra but Antony laid there for a few moments.
"Antony!" Kenzi whispered like she could not believe what she had just witnessed. All eyes in the Gallery looked to The Queen Consort who was just as focused on Antony. Jock ran over to Antony, extended his hand out, and pulled him up off the ground. Then both brothers ran back to the offensive line to reset.
Antony quickly yelled something to Elena and pointed at Julian then the offensive line reset. Sellecchia hiked the ball and Elena quickly tossed the ball to Julian who ran ahead for 20 yards then abruptly stopped and quickly fired the ball to Antony. As soon as Antony caught the ball he was close enough to Noguerra to face him one on one and get the better of him. Antony fired the ball past him and into the goal zone. The stadium roared. Kenzi however kept her eyes on Antony who gripped his chest.
"Why doesn't he pull himself out?" Kenzi said out loud.
"Because it will take more than that to sideline His Serene Highness." Brettina answered. Just then Suroko ran back onto the field. Completely healed.
"What the hell!" Kenzi exclaimed. The guests within the Royal Gallery looked at Kenzi scandalized. Kenzi suddenly remembered she was in the presence of The Queen Consort.
"Sorry, Your Majesty." The Queen Consort, Atia and Maxima, however, all chuckled.
"I'm married to a warrior, Kenzi. My ears are not virginal." The Queen Consort replied. Kenzi smiled while the rest of the guests in the Royal Gallery breathed a sigh of relief.
The Riders formed up on offense, and deployed their arm armor. The Hordes, however, deployed shields and battle axes on the 8-line and the 5-line while the 7-line split up their players between the 8 and 5 lines.
Cosalas called for the ball and Sartorius hiked it back. Cosalas quickly moved to the right and threw the ball 30 yards to an open Kozlov who caught the ball and ran for another 30 yards before she was taken down by a Hordes defensive player.
Cosalas ran up and called for a quick reset. Sartorius hiked the ball. Cosalas fell back to pass but something caught his eye: a flying axe. He quickly tucked the ball close and rolled out of the way as the Hordes defense barreled down on him. He got up and ran left and saw a Rider receiver. He threw 40 yards and the receiver caught and ran for another 30 yards before being tackled inside neutral territory.
The Rider offense reset. This time Noguerra and Sartorius switched places, and Noguerra hiked the ball. Cosalas dropped back deep. He saw Sartorius reach his position and bombed the ball for 50 yards. Sartorius caught it inside Hordes territory, however, a Hordes defender swung his axe from behind slicing Sartorius armor open and his back. Sartorius hit the ground instantly. The stadium roared, enthralled at the violence. Sartorius armor glowed and he disappeared off the field.
"Yes!" Kenzi shouted with a clenched fist. The Queen Consort smiled at Kenzi's reaction. But their joy was short-lived for Antony fell to his knees on the ground again. Maxima called up the player tracker.
"Fractured ribs. Internal bleeding. It looks like from that last run one of Riders got a slice in." Maxima reported.
"He needs to get out of there!" Kenzi said worried. Ariella ran over to him, and he got back on his feet again and rejoined the defensive line.
"What's he trying to prove?" Kenzi said anxious as she looked between The Queen Consort, Atia, and Maxima.
"Antony is determined." Atia replied.
The Riders defense reset again. Noguerra hiked the ball. Cosalas fell back and threw at Kozlov close to Antony. Kozlov headed straight for Antony as Takenaka and De Marchis flanked Kozlov in efforts to double tackle Antony, however, Antony charged towards Kozlov and then as Takenaka and De Marchis were about to overtake him Antony suddenly stopped, dropped to one knee, deployed two shields, one on each arm and braced for impact. Takenaka and De Marchis bounced off the shields while Kozlov leaped over Antony. As she lept Antony stood up, detached both shields, deployed his axe and threw it Kozlov implanting itself squarely in the back of her armor. The force of the hit shook the ball loose into the air. Julian was there to catch it and broke at a run through the remaining offensive line still in the back field trailed by Jakande, and fired into the goal zone for an easy score. Antony, however, was on the ground.
"Antony!" Kenzi yelled this time in the futile hope he would hear her, but her concern for his well-being were answered when his armor glowed and he disappeared off the field.
"Your Majesty, Your Serene Highnesses, how can I go to him?" Kenzi asked as she gathered herself.
"Kenzi, He will be fine. This is the game of Juggerbol and Antony plays hard. Besides, by the time you get there he will be back on the field already. Besides if it were serious we would have been notified." Maxima assured. Kenzi looked at her expectant.
"This is our first date. Don't want to lose a guy on the first date. Kinda jinx-sy, you know." Kenzi said. Maxima smiled broadly.
"He will be fine." The Queen Consort gently reassured.
Sure enough after a couple of exchange plays, both Antony and Sartorius returned to the field much to everyone's relief, and the game battled on until the second half ended with a tie,18-18 all. The horns sounded again.
"The Death Half. Now, it's about to get outrageous." Atia said.
The fans in the stadium all stood up thunderously chanting and cheering including everyone within the Royal Enclosure as the lights went dark again.
"During the Death Half everyone stands up for the duration of the half." Maxima explained.
"How long is this half, Your Serene Highness?" Kenzi asked.
"Fifteen minutes. Unless one team leads by two points then the Death Half is over." Atia replied.
"What if they are still tied at the end of the Death Half, Your Serene Highness?" Kenzi asked.
"Then it is one on one, battle play. Whoever scores first wins the game." Atia replied.
The mascot of the Hordes shimmered before them clanking his battle axes, but this time the Jackal Riders mascot actually shifted into a Jackal and a player jumped on him as the ran toward the Hordes mascot and clashed once again onscreen.
"That's different." Kenzi sees.
"That's because during this half they can use their Fae powers." Maxima replied.
"Aw, c'mon! As if shields, knives and battle axes weren't enough?" Kenzi exclaimed as she threw her hands up. This time quite a few of the Royal Gallery guests chuckled in response.
The Iron Hordes started out on offense. Elena called for the ball and Antony it hiked it back to her. Elena fell back looking for a receiver as the foremost offensive and defensive lines clashed. Kenzi eyes widened when she saw the 7-line on defense shift into elephant-sized jackals then the 5-line on defense jumped on their backs and rode them as they charged into the offensive line.
"Literally, Jackal Riders!" Kenzi said.
The charge was met by the 6 and 5-lines on offense. Pallavicino stood up and created a line of fire causing the Jackal Riders to rear back. Suddenly, one Jackal Rider broke though the fire and charged forward past the 10, 6 and 5 lines as Elena scrambled forward.
Julian came across to block but was surprised by defensive Jackal Rider Takenaka who rammed him from the side. Julian went flying nearly off the field and landed on the ground on his right shoulder, and laid there holding his left side, his body bucking. Kenzi threw her hands up to her face again as The Queen Consort, Atia, Maxima looked on with concern. Then his armor glowed and he disappeared off the field. The Queen Consort turned to look at an already moving Seneschal.
"We shall see to him, Your Majesty." The Seneschal said and left.
The Queen Consort turned back to find the Jackal Rider that rammed Julian barreled down on Elena who continued to scramble behind Antony and two offensive players. Antony shifted his eyes then raised his hands up as he formed a shield then he blasted the shield with his eyes which caused the Jackal and its rider to be blinded by the extreme light.
Then one of the Horde offensive line players came up and tackled the rider off the Jackal which allowed Elena to break through at a run. Elena ran forward and the offensive line formed a line in front of her to protect as she ran. She made it halfway across neutral territory but a Jackal Rider broke through and charged towards her, but just as the Rider was upon her she leaped high into the air and over the charging Rider but she as soon as she landed she was hit by De Marchis.
Elena quickly got up and looked at the clock, and then called for a reset. This time Suroko hiked the ball back to Elena who dropped back quickly and then threw the ball into the air with no apparent receiver just then Tiaton appeared out of nowhere, caught the ball and ran for another 40 yards before he was tackled.
"Mickey can alter his physical state." Maxima commented. The Seneschal re-entered the Royal Enclosure.
"What are the extent of his injuries?" The Queen Consort asked.
"Shattered right clavicle and scapula, broken humerus, several ribs broken, two of which punctured his right lung, Your Majesty." The Seneschal replied.
"Prognosis?" The Queen Consort asked.
"They can mend him but the doctors doubt he will be back before the Death Half is over, Your Majesty." The Seneschal replied.
"Has The Queen been informed?" The Queen Consort asked.
"Yes, Your Majesty." The Seneschal replied.
"Thank you." The Queen Consort said. The Seneschal bowed and stepped back.
"Your Majesty, our Blessings for his recovery." Rajah Uhane offered. Others in the gallery joined in their offerings.
"Thank you." The Queen Consort replied.
Elena looked at the clock again as the offensive line reset. Suroko hiked the ball and she fell back for about 10 yards and then threw the ball to Ariella who then turned and saw a Jackal Rider barreling down on her just in time. She held up her hand and the force field she made with her mind repelled the tackle knocking the rider off his Jackal she then ran for another 25 yards before she was trip tackled.
Elena called for a quick reset. Suroko hiked the ball back. Elena fell back a couple yards and then threw for 25 yards straight ahead at Ipiktok who was quickly tackled.
Elena then called for another reset as she glanced at the clock. Surko hiked the ball. This time she threw the ball right back at Suroko who then shifted his arm which looked like a battering ram and charged forward. As one Jackal Rider came up he swung with his battering arm and knocking the jackal out and the rider off the jackal. The Jackal Rider shifted back into their humanoid form and were quickly transported off the field.
Elena called for the ball. This time Kajasa hiked the ball back. Elena threw the ball to Ariella who then twirled and as she twirled she kicked up a tornado like dust storm. The dust up blinded the nearby Jackal defenders and caused them to rear back just enough while she fired the ball into the goal zone. The stadium erupted. The score was 19-18 in favor of the Hordes.
The Jackal Riders set up on offense. The players who had shifted into Jackals had shifted back into their humanoid forms. The players in both the 10 and 6 lines combined into one long line. Sartorius hiked back to Cosalas who dropped back deep and saw a receiver and threw 50 yards to them. The receiver caught the ball and ran for another 50 yards before being tackled.
The Jackal Riders reset. Sartorius hiked the ball back to Cosalas who found De Marchis down field and threw the ball another 50 yards. De Marchis caught the ball and then quickly threw it up to Takenaka who rode a Jackal and cleared another 75 yards before Ipiktok slammed his hand to the ground, and thus shaking it hard enough for Takenake to be thrown from his Jackal. They were now in neutral territory.
The Jackal Riders reset. Sartorius hiked the ball back to Cosalas who found Kozlov who caught the ball and ran for 30 yards before being tackled.
Then the stadium roared as Julian walked back on the field, but was not in his Juggerbol armor. Instead, he was dressed only in a pair of shorts that went to his knees and he carried two battle axes. As he walked out onto the field he shifted into his Ranoruk form that still looked to Kenzi like a Minotaur. Instead of reaching the size she had once seen of him when they visited the Congo Julian limited his shift to a height of 15 feet. Kenzi knew that if Julian fully shifted he would take up one-fourth of the playing field. Jock joined his brother by taking off his helmet and shifted his face into his Ranoruk reptile face and displayed his neck frills.
"Wow! Just wow!" Kenzi commented.
"Wow is right." as Maxima checked out his readings. "He's not fully healed either."
"Like brother, like brother." Kenzi commented.
The Horde offensive line reformed. This time Elena, Antony, Dakari and Jock joined the rwst of their teammates in the 8-line while Ariella and Julian joined theirs in the 7-line.
The Jackal Riders reset. Sartorius hiked the ball back to Cosalas who found Noguerra and threw the ball. As Noguerra leaped into the air Julian threw one of his axes at Noguerra which nailed him in mid-air. Noguerra dropped to the ground but still held the ball after the play cleared another 40 yards. Noguerra's armor glowed and he disappeared off the field. The Riders were decidedly in Horde territory.
The Jackal Riders reset. Sartorius hiked the ball back to Cosalas who saw Takenaka and threw to him. As Takenaka turned to run Elena halted his run when she deployed one of her wings. It was slamming into a steel wall at a full run. Takenake dropped on the ground like a sack of potatoes while the ball flew into the air. Antony ran towards it and shifted mid-air into his Ranoruk Gorilla-like beast form as he went. He caught the ball and ran for 55 yards as a Jackal Rider barreled down on him. Antony charged straight at the Jackal and they collided. Kenzi thought she was seeing a monster movie play out on the Juggerbol field. The ball flew into the air and Jakande caught the ball mid-air, and ran down the field and threw in the goal zone without opposition. Hordes score again, thus ending the game 20-18.
Kenzi looked down at the field. It looked like a war zone.
About half an hour later, the Seneschal informed The Queen Consort that Antony, Elena, Dakari, Ariella, Jock and Julian made their way up to one of the side drawing rooms inside Royal Enclosure.
The Queen Consort excused Atia, Maxima, and Kenzi and herself and made their way towards the next room. When they entered the room they found Antony, Elena, Dakari, Ariella, Jock and Julian collapsed in various chairs and couches but they quickly stood upon her entrance and were about to extended the proper courtesies when The Queen Consort outstretched her arms. Each one of them greeted her with a hug and kiss. After Antony had extended his greetings he approached Kenzi.
"So what did you think of our little game?" Antony asked.
"That was the most insane, demented event I have ever seen. As in ever! And I loved it! Except for the parts where you got hurt. That was scary!" Kenzi replied. Antony smiled.
"Juggerbol is a warrior's sport." Elena replied.
"I must say it has been a joy to watch the game though Kenzi's eyes. It's like learning all about Juggerbol for the first time." The Queen Consort said as she sat down in a nearby chair. The Seneschal opened the door and announced that and Vargo Sartorius, Mickey Tiaton, Halsar Suroko and his wife Glorianne wished to make their felicitations. The Queen nodded and the Seneschal directed them inside, and all still in their gear stood before The Queen Consort and extended their courtesies.
"Your Majesty, Your Serene Highnesses." Vargo greeted first.
"Welcome! Lovely to see you all!" The Queen Consort greeted.
"Well-played game today!" Antony said as he walked up to Vargo and extended his hand out. They shook forearms.
"You gave as good as we could give." Vargo replied then he looked to Elena. "Hello Elena."
"Vargo." Elena came up and extended her hand. "I agree, well-played today." Vargo took her hand and kissed it.
"You played as shrewdly as ever. As you do in all things." Vargo complimented. Elena smiled.
"This is Ms. Makenzie Malikov. She goes by Kenzi." Antony introduced. "Kenzi, this is…"
"Vargo Sartoruis, Captain of the Jackal Riders, Mickey Tiaton, Halsar and Gloriane Suroko." Kenzi finished.
"So you are the famous human friend of The Princess Royal?" Gloriane said.
"I am!" Kenzi answered.
"So did you enjoy the game?" Halsar asked.
"It was surreal, heart-stopping." Kenzi replied.
"I share the heart-stopping part. Every time Halsar gets injured my heart stops. Need to look at one day giving it up." Gloriane said
"Are we to have that discussion again, my dear?" Halsar pleaded.
"And we will keep having it until you give it up." Gloriane replied. Halsar rolled his eyes.
"So I am wondering if you were free for dinner tonight, Your Serene Highness?" Vargo asked Elena. All eyes looked to Elena.
"I have so much to do for the Convocation and..." Elena started to protest.
"I'm sure that Elena would enjoy that." The Queen Consort interjected. Elena gave her mother a look.
"Well, then Your Majesty by your leave I shall go get cleaned up, and meet Her Serene Highness, shall we say in a half hour?" Vargo queried.
"That would be fine." The Queen Consort answered again for Elena. Vargo then bowed and left.
Then the Seneschal entered the room.
"Your Majesty? Her Majesty." The Seneschal informed.
"Call on!" Helen said into the air. The air shimmered and Ari and Saladin's faces appeared. Everyone was about to extend their courtesies when Ari held her hand up.
"How was the game? I heard I missed a good one." Ari queried.
"It was magnificent!" Ariella replied.
"Julian I understand you took quite a hit." Ari queried.
"I'm fine Mummy." Julian answered.
"No he's not!" Maxima interjected. Julian gave her a look but she pressed forward. "He needs to return to medical to finish healing." Maxima finished as she met his look.
"Julian?" Ari prompted.
"I'm fine, Mummy. Really." Julian said firmly.
"Halsar, Gloriane. Lovely to see to you again." Ari said.
"You as well, Your Majesty. You were missed today." Gloriane replied.
"The Convocation beckons. Halsar, I heard you were injured again." The Queen queried.
"But I bounced back, Your Majesty, as always." Halsar said proudly. It was Gloriane's turn to roll her eyes.
"Helen I see your favorite player is here." Ari asked Helen.
"Yes, and he played very well." Helen replied as she turned and smiled at Mickey.
"Mikolaus, I see you continue to capture Helen's admiration." Ari teased. Mickey blushed.
"As always, I aim to do my part well on the team, Your Majesty." Mickey replied.
"Your Majesties, by your leave, we shall leave you to your discussions." Gloriane said.
"I need to leave as well, Your Majesties." Mickey added.
"It was lovely to meet you Kenzi." Gloriane said.
"Nice to meet you all." Kenzi replied. Then Halsar, Gloriane and Mickey all extended their courtesies and left.
"Mother!" Elena complained once the doors closed behind them.
"You need to get out more." The Queen Consort replied.
"I think I can determine that all on my own." Elena said.
"You haven't been out in ages." The Queen Consort replied.
"That's not true, Mother. I've been out," Elena said then added weakly, "with friends."
"Dinner with Vargo is not going to kill you." The Queen Consort replied.
"What's all this?" Ari asked.
"Mother has me joining Vargo Sartorius for dinner." Elena protested.
"He asked." Helen added.
"I better leave now before Mother gets any ideas with me." Ariella said as she kissed her mother then curtsied and left.
"Very well, then. Saladin and I still have some work to do." Ari said.
"Ari?" Helen prompted.
"Yes?"
"Rajah Uhane needs to speak with you as soon as possible." Helen said.
"Regarding?"
"Regarding the 25th Delegation."
"Can't it wait until the Convocation has convened?"
"It cannot." Helen replied.
"Very well." Ari turned to Saladin. "Arrange a meeting with Rajah Uhane tomorrow afternoon, and make sure Bo is there."
"Oh and there's one more thing." Helen said.
"What is it?" Ari replied.
"It's about Evony's brother, Rein." Helen replied. Ari's eyes furrowed.
"What's the issue?" Ari asked.
"It seems Rein has gone off again, and was here pleading his case." Helen replied.
"Was Parisa there?" Ari asked.
"No." Helen replied. Ari sighed.
"I will have the Agency look into his situation, Your Majesty." Regent Saladin said.
"Good." Then Ari turned to Helen. "Anything else?"
"Nothing else." Helen replied.
"Waiting on you for dinner." Ari said.
"I will be home soon." Helen replied.
"Any of the children joining us?" Ari asked.
"Dakari, Jock and Atia. The rest all have their plans of their own this evening." Helen replied.
"I will leave you to it then, my love." Ari said and the call ended. Helen then turned to Julian.
"Report to Presidium Medical." Helen directed.
"I said I was…" Julian's protest but stopped when she raised one finger. Julian exhaled.
"Yes, Mother." Then gave his younger sister an evil look. The Queen Consort stood up. Jock extended his arm out to his mother.
"I need to get back." The Queen Consort replied. Everyone offered their courtesies as The Queen Consort walked out arm in arm with Jock followed by Atia, Dyak Nnamani, Agent Pettosami, and Bas Magnar. Maxima then went up to Julian and put her arms around him.
"My only concern is for your well-being." Maxima said. "Besides," Maxima said as she broke her embrace, "I don't believe a word that you are fine." And poked him hard in the right ribs. Julian flinched. "Now shall we?" She said as she directed her brother to the doors.
"You are evil!" Julian shot.
"Come along!" Maxima said as she wrapped her arm around his left arm and led him out the door. After they left Dakari broke out into laughter.
"Keep it up!" Elena warned. Dakari raised his hands.
"I would never tussle with you my dear sister." Dakari said then he came and kissed her on the
forehead. "Mother is right. You need to get out."
"Since everyone is ganging up on me." Elena replied as she walked out the room and Dakari followed her.
"Shall we then? To dinner?" Antony held out his arm to Kenzi.
"We shall!" Kenzi said as she took his arm and they walked out of the room.
