A challenge of war. During the Hundred Years War, knights from England and France would meet at a designated place to fight for the honor of their king and kingdom. These structured encounters were much like the friendly pas d'armes, save that blood was drawn and men often slain. Also denoting the quest of a knight errant, where the young knight would wear some token of his quest such as a bracelet, greave, or eyepatch until some feat of arms was accomplished.

An enterprise; endeavor; adventure.

a specific type of formal tournament, where the primary emphasis is on the form and show of the tournament

a formal competition based on a 15th century style tournament.

The qualifies which prompt one to undertake difficult and dangerous exploits.