Well, we have yet another new feature: the Sparring Ring, which you'll find in the Border Garrisons

After considering how to handle military training, we decided to make it a test of your RP skill, as well as your character's fighting skill. So: everyone from new recruits to generals can pair up and spar in the sparring ring. Winners (judged by the mods and admins) will receive promotions or other prizes.

Until the war begins, this is your chance to get in some action, so I hope everyone makes use of it.

Keep an eye out for the Midsummer Gatherings and the King's Betrothal Feast, both coming soon.

Here's a very simple step-by-step guide to setting up a sparring bout.

• Post in the Challenges forum and wait for someone to take your challenge.
• If you're the second--the 'challenged'--you get to pick the weapons--I recommend longswords, to begin with, and then we can get more exotic.
• Make sure to specify how many rounds you want in your bout (both of you should, obviously, agree). The minimum is three posts each, three 'rounds.'
• Wait for an Admin or Mod to post in your Challenge thread.
• Post away, making sure to abide by the rules of engagement.
• The Admin/Mod will judge, and then you're done. Enjoy your prize or wallow in defeat.

You can find the Rules of Engagement pinned in the Challenges forum.