Snippet #2156228

Clap. Clap. Clap.

Slow applause sounded abruptly, quite plainly audible over the bustle as spectators departed from the viewing chamber. For a moment, it wasn't exactly clear where the sound was coming from, as it echoed up and down the corridor like a chorus of a thousand hands, instead of a mere pair as they gave a simple tribute to an unexpected victory.

The source of the clapping soon became apparent as an overlooked figure in a black coat slowly rose from where it had been lounging against the wall outside of the arena exit, turning to face the small group now emerging from that door as it gave its last clap. The girl in black gave an amused smile, adjusting her red-rimmed spectacles as she sized up the boy at the center of the party of Eagles.

The blademaster had to admit, she was surprised. When she returned from her small lunch to witness a battle between an unknown and one of her own house's rising stars, she hadn't expected to see her fellow defeated in such a manner as he had been. But, even that wouldn't have been enough to interest her in such a manner as she was intrigued now. No, what surprised her was not the manner of Bruno's defeat, nor even the one who had beaten him.

It was the weapon - or, rather, weapons - with which the deed had been done.

"Congratulations," Anya said simply. "I must admit, I was expecting a mutual kill at the very least. Bruno isn't an easy opponent to handle for a Lunar Blade wielder. A solid defense, and an overwhelmingly adaptable attack style make him nigh unreachable unless one has a similarly ranged weapon. But, then again, you aren't exactly run of the mill, now are you?" With a quiet click, Anya removed her glasses, folding them and sliding them into the front pocket of her coat, which was her own peculiar way of signaling that she was getting down to business.

"Dual blades, is it?" She asked, that enthusiastic yet very competitive smile not leaving her features as she walked forward. "I didn't know there were other people who used that fighting style. It's a pleasant surprise to find I'm not alone." Extending a hand to the boy, she made a clear gesture of introduction, although the courtesy that might otherwise have been present in this action was sadly lacking thanks to the fact that she happened to be completely ignoring all of the Eagles who were with the boy to whom she spoke, treating them as though they didn't even exist. But, she had no interest in them right now. This other dual sword user had drawn her attention, something which was unusual considering her aloof demeanor. His fellows, on the other hand, were of no concern to her. Instead, she continued speaking to the duelist and to him alone.

"Anya Roscoe. And you're Lance Walsh, correct?" She stopped directly in front of him, her hand quite plainly extended to accept and shake his own. "It's difficult to practice my - no, I should say, our - unique style of combat here. I know that from experience. I'm feeling generous, and you've piqued my interest, so I'll make you an offer. During the dinner hours tonight, the arena will be empty. Even if I'm a second year, I've reached third level, giving me the senior student's privileges, which include access to the arena during off-hours for private sparring sessions. You will not risk any gains or losses of crowns in such a spar, nor will a victory or a loss register on your battle record. I want to test your strength, and, while I'm at it, I can probably help you improve your fighting style. Do you accept?" Anya explained, concluding rather bluntly.

A spar with one of the academy's up and coming students was nothing to be laughed at. And, considering her expertise in the field of dual weapons and his proficiency in the same, there was certainly no doubt that a duel with Anya could be greatly beneficial to both parties. But, on the other hand, she really could have phrased her request in a better way. The way she never stopped giving that same competitive grin, and spoke so directly... it sounded more like a challenge than an invitation. But then again, that was, in a way, what it was. She had said she wanted to "test his strength," had she not?

Either way, it was unexpected, and quite blunt, and no one could fault Lance for deciding either way.