7

You take a deep breath and urge your horse into a gallop. You tighten your grip on the saddle. You're nearing your opponent. You flex every muscle in your body and strike with all your might.

The force of your lance hitting her rocks you back in your saddle, but you manage to stay mounted. She flies off her horse with a crunch.

"Sixty points! Squire Kirk is the winner!" the herald cries.

The joust is over, and the realization washes over you that the crowd is cheering for you. You've won!

The herald beckons to you, and you ride over to the middle of the list for him to present you. You take off your helmet and bow to the crowd. As you do so, you see Sir Kelton and Fizza cheering, and then you look up to see the Queen and the royal family applauding you. The Contessa is there, and she seems to recognize you. She nods subtly with a smirk on her face as you make eye contact. And the Queen definitely remembers you are Sir Kelton's squire. She mouths "Good job!" as the crowd continues to cheer.

You feel like you're floating as the old grey horse takes you back to your side. Kelton comes down to help you out of your armor.

"Let's hurry. Fizza's joust is next. We could have two champions with us today!" He says as he rapidly undoes leather buckles.

You simply nod as you feel the smile still on your face.