70ftandcounting

[video]

Oh--!

[Yep, guess who has tattoos.]

I forgot to write -- why does this happen, I wonder? [She holds an arm up and rotates it, peering at them.]

Well, it goes away, at least! [Smile.]

So, is everyone enjoying the tournament? It's such fun to watch! You're all doing so well!

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[She smiles and it's audible through her tone, though her expression is strained.]

I've -- noticed.

[Bartimaeus catches wind of that slight shift - he's very prideful about the little details, thanks.]

Where's the enthusiasm? Here I thought you were enjoying the inanity!

Oh, I--I am!

It's just -- I wonder if all the violence is necessary...though I'm here if any help is needed!

Where would the fun be without the violence? It's an ancient tradition that's taken countless forms across dozens of cultures.

It...it is?

Indeed! Every human game involves a good speckling of violence, otherwise it's not truly a contest to them. Have you ever heard of a trial or tournament that doesn't?