Aerial Joust

In the world of Elythria, the sport of Aerial Joust has great significance to the people of the skyborne nation of Aethera. A dynamic and exhilarating game, Aerial Joust combines the skill of aerial acrobatics, teamwork, and strategy, reflecting the values and traditions of the Aetherans, who have built their cities high among the clouds.   Aerial Joust is played between two teams of five players each, mounted on their loyal Skystriders, large flightless birds known for their speed, agility, and impressive jumping ability. The objective of the game is to score points by capturing the opposing team's flag and returning it to their own goalpost while defending their own flag from capture.   The playing field consists of a vast, open sky with floating platforms at various heights, which serve as strategic points and obstacles for the players. The Skystriders are crucial in this game, as their agility and leaping prowess allow the players to navigate the treacherous terrain and outmaneuver their opponents.   Each team of Aerial Joust is composed of three main roles: Attackers, Defenders, and the Flagbearer. Attackers are responsible for capturing the opposing team's flag, using their agility and offensive skills to break through the enemy's defense. Defenders focus on protecting their own flag, utilizing their strength and defensive abilities to repel the opposing team's attackers. The Flagbearer, the most skilled and agile player on the team, is tasked with carrying the captured flag back to their own goalpost while evading the opposing team's attempts to reclaim it.   Matches of Aerial Joust are played in three rounds, with each round lasting 20 minutes or until a team captures the opposing team's flag and returns it to their own goalpost. The team with the most points at the end of the three rounds is declared the winner.   Aerial Joust holds a special place in the hearts of the Aetherans, as it embodies the values of their culture, including teamwork, courage, and the mastery of the skies. The sport has deep historical roots, originating as a form of military training for the elite Skystrider-mounted knights who once protected the skies of Aethera. Over time, Aerial Joust evolved into a popular sport, drawing spectators and participants from all walks of life.   Today, Aerial Joust is an integral part of Aetheran society, celebrated through festivals, tournaments, and friendly competitions. It serves as a reminder of the nation's proud history, a testament to the Aetherans' mastery of the skies, and a symbol of the unbreakable bond between rider and Skystrider.