The sun beat down on the sprawling tourney grounds. Dust kicked up from the arena floor in lazy swirls, carrying the sharp tang of horse sweat, oiled leather, and the metallic hint of blood from past bouts. Banners snapped in the intermittent breeze, bright silks in the house colors of deep crimson, forest green, and gold fluttering above the wooden stands packed with spectators.
The roar of the crowd was constant, a living thing that rose and fell, laced with shouts for favorites, wagers called out in hoarse voices, and the occasional burst of laughter or jeers.
