The herald was shouting, "Beauty bestows her love as lances are broken! Fight fearlessly, brave Knights, for fair eyes await great deeds!"
The band occasionally burst into frenzied tunes, expressing both victory and contempt. The countryfolk muttered amongst themselves, complaining that a perfectly good festival was about to be ruined at the hands of a Jewish Knight. The older Knights and Nobility chattered on, sighing over the decline of the Franks' martial spirit and reminiscing about the great deeds of their youth.
To break the silence on the tournament grounds, the band once again struck up a long and rousing tune. But just as it was about to end, a lone horn blast suddenly pierced the air—the call of a challenger, coming from the north end of the field.
The Knights on the field spurred into action, charging toward their chosen opponents.
About four Knights glanced at Eric, then turned to look at Rufus, as if asking for his permission.
