Being totted along inside a horse drawn carriage, sat the lean, pale nobleman, Fraisier Hughes. He sat as his white and gold trimmed carriage passed by the worn out townspeople. Even seeing such a grand sight as the pristine carriage, was only met with gloom. True some did marvel and wonder who was inside, otherwise they were too self-absorbed in their own pity. Fraisier felt likewise, in fact very lukewarm about all of this. Not to mention rather nervous to boot. He had very little confidence what he, and whoever else was dragged into this, were about to do. How can seven warriors beat a warrior, which a thousand warriors could not triumph?
It was pure ridiculousness! Still, even when Queen Miranda herself had commissioned him to enter, he did not voice objection. Sure, he is objecting to everything now, but no one will hear his discontent. Such was his life, always thinking and never acting. Always too shy and timid to even stand up for himself. What a poor choice for a champion indeed! Who cares if he has skill with a sword? It will make very little difference to a warrior who can destroy the world. Yet, in all of his timidness he was whisked henceforth and now finds himself in a dire situation. Fraisier could only look down in his palms and curse his shyness. Why can't he speak up!?
All of this self wallowing isn't going to change the facts. He was about to meet six other people and he hoped they will be nice fellows. He really hoped they were nice. Fraisier can't even remember a time he was so nervous. What are they like, what do they do? Are they heroes, nobles, warriors, or killers? Whatever they are he sure hoped they will treat him decently or if not, at least ignore him. He then looked forward as the carriage driver continued to steer the horse down the long street. Despite it being the main street, little activity could be found. It seemed Fraisier wasn't the only one who had a lack of confidence. He wish he could say otherwise, but he couldn't help but agree. They might as well be committing suicide.
"Maurice." "How much further?" Fraisier quietly asked.
"Eh?" "Oh can't be far now Lord Fraisier!" "I am almost positive we shall reach the harbour!" He spoke cheerfully.
"Good, good." Fraisier mumbled as he continued to sigh. What fate lies before him?
Soon the sea air began to invade Fraisier's nose. They were nearing their destination, it won't be long now till he will meet his fellow champions. He was not looking forward to it. In fact he can't help but start to shiver at the oncoming meeting. He hopes he won't make a fool of himself. Oh who is he kidding, he will screw up royally no doubt. Perhaps he will be the first one there, or maybe the last. Perhaps he could avoid introductions? No, he will have to meet them eventually, being together for a tournament with no other company besides enemies...he will have to speak sooner or later. Best do it now when there is no immediate dangers.
"Alright Lord Fraisier!" "We are here!" He spoke as he pulled the carriage up before the harbour. Maurice stepped down and opened the door with the sigil of a dove upon a vine, the symbol of the House of Hughes. Fraisier held on to his case were his clothing is contained. He stepped down from the steps of the carriage as he reached the cobblestone street. His rapier, Aurora, fastened against his hip. He was dressed in the obviously frilly Noble attire. He must certainly be out of place with warriors in more, battle oriented gear. Still he wasn't one to wear armor, it always threw him off balanced. Maurice then closed the door behind him.
"Shall I take your luggage Lord Fraisier?" Maurice asked.
"Why, yes thank you Maurice." He kindly spoke as he handed him the case.
"It's of no consequence Lord Fraisier." "I shall bring it to your ship." He spoke.
Fraisier merely nodded. Fraisier and Maurice walked along the pier and soon they came upon two men, who looked out of place as well. They must be the Champions. Nervous, Fraisier cautiously walked near them but he kept a fair distance. He was trembling and looked rather pale. He then nodded at them. "Uh...G-Greetings." He mumbled. Finding it hard to formulate words. Then Maurice stepped in.
"Good Day fine sirs!" He spoke with pep. "I am Maurice and may I introduce his lordship, Fraisier Jourdain Florentine Hughes, of the House of Hughes of Perialis!" He spoke with much gusto. Fraisier only slightly looked their way, obviously rather embarrassed. He hated when others introduce him, especially in such grandoise a fashion. Now they most certainly think him a snob! He wish he could speak otherwise, but he was rather intimidated. He then gulped as he adjusted his neck tie. He then raised his hand and waved a hello, the best he could offer at the moment.
"So then, do you fine sirs know which ship you shall board?" Maurice asked, hoping to drop this load off for Fraisier.