Rider shook his hand tightly, a grin still on his face. If he had known the king better, he would have stepped forward to similarly clap him on the shoulder and half-embrace him as a sign of good will. But thinking better of it, he took his seat.

"Ahh, and what a shame that is! I pray for your home, long past as it may be. Though I have my name, what shall I call you, fellow king? We speak as equals here!"

He leaned forward casually, watching the match with rather detached interest. "Though, my friend, I imagine I am not the first to come speak with you about the matches you watch over. I have not come to one before, since I respect the right of combat and how it should not be interrupted, but the woman there, she has drawn me out of interest. She and I, we are pledged to a life of combat never-ending, but what of the others? Though death is not permanent here, there is no sport in watching those unskilled in battle die."