A looser tongue than usual couldn't be at fault for the instant remark that sprang to mind upon announcement of the final round. Inclined to jest as always, East's thoughts were loose change on the matter of frivolous talent displays, so the shiny penny which slipped out especially for this occasion was one of a dozen similar sentiments held in a relaxed beak. He eyed the stage, a hulking beast which awaited willing sacrifices, then turned his gaze to meet the perpetual aggravation evident in his companion's.

"Better you than me," he said, no shame or despair in the dry delivery used. Only simple observation and dull anticipation of future events dwelt there. Lucky so far in receiving cooperation, this seemed the appropriate time for the proverbial shoe, or rather cave stalactite, to drop. Most he could do was brace himself to take whatever mockery was thrown at their joint failure in stride while dodging the furious antler thrusts of a Tunnel Runner scorned.

Speaking of antlers, the imagined scenario caused lightly sketched plans to form an interesting inkling of an idea. The gathered props, encompassing a vast assortment of themes, might harbor an item properly befitting a Lesser prone to such explosive tantrums. He tilted his head at the boxes and buckets filled to their limit; picking through them would go faster if their efforts were combined, and obviously the audience wouldn't appreciate a long delay before the next act entered the spotlight.

"You mind? It's your grave we're going to be digging."

The Tunnel Runner snorted but complied despite an irritated flick of his whiplike tail.

Once it came time for the stage to be braved, the deer didn't approach this daunting arena within another alone. A flutter of wings signaled East alighting opposite of him, beak gripping onto a sword. The weapon was ostentatious, colorful gems gaudily decorating its ornate hilt. Oversized for the bird, how he managed to avoid toppling over from its weight became clear when he flew at his familiar and antler points parried a wide blow he swooped to inflict: a cheap replica, the impact rang hollow upon bone. The pair circled about in an orchestrated duel, attacks dodged and knocked aside at a steadily ramping pace, before abruptly breaking apart.

Panting, an evaluating glare was directed at East by the Tunnel Runner. He smacked a hoof on the ground and lowered his head in grudging acknowledgement of their frenzied fight.