RE: =Elemental Championships 2008= Grand Finals


	Home \| Login \| Register \| Help \| Play

RE: =Elemental Championships 2008= Grand Finals

Logged in as: Guest

Printable Version

All Forums >> [Gaming Community] >> [Role Playing] >> The Championships >> RE: =Elemental Championships 2008= Grand Finals

Page 5 of 5

Forum Login

Message

<< Older Topic Newer Topic >>

8/26/2008 3:00:04

Guardian of Nekops
Member

The Champion of Water raised his blade high as he turned to face the charging metal warrior, using a whip summoned from the sword to pull the net down to the sands before it reached him, then backed away around his Pillar as he cast nervous glances behind. Despite his failed cast, Roch grinned broadly at this outcome for two reasons as he continued his easy, confident jog in pursuit. First, magic was supposed to annihilate, to subjugate, to supersede the physical; using will to fight a man’s muscles on even terms was a losing battle every time. After all, Roch could reel in and cast his net all day, but he was sure that the pirate’s ability to control his element would be as limited as his own exhausted Alchemy.

Secondly, and more important, Roch was catching up. There was no way that Water’s Chosen could escape by jogging backwards, be he ever so nimble.

The net had been a mistake, in many ways. Roch had first studied the weapon in a book in Falerin’s Abode; it had been used by a people called the Romans against heavily armored opponents, too weighed down to dodge it or win their way free should it entangle them. In the heat of battle, reversing this on the light and nimble had seemed a good plan… the results had now proved otherwise, despite his foe’s wasteful method of dodging. The weapon, especially rendered in a material as heavy as steel, was a poor choice against the agile foes he now faced.

But he wasn’t about to give it up, regardless. Even if it had no other merits, the net was non-lethal; he could use it against Enya without fear of harming her, if it came to that. With his Alchemy gone, he had little else to work with.

Keeping his speed only slightly faster that that of his opponent for the moment, the Crusher let the man back away from his net, casting the shaft of Impact down through his gauntlet until the broad head of the weapon clanged loudly to a stop. Clenching it tightly in his grip, Roch raised his makeshift spear and stabbed it down into the middle of the net with a well-timed thrust. He twisted backwards, prying the shaft of the Gravity Axe from the arena sands and trusting the large gem set in the pommel, the onyx that was the source of Impact’s power, to catch within the metal weave.

Roch began to pick up speed as he drew the net up into his waiting left gauntlet, where he struggled for a moment to wrench it free once more. When this was accomplished, he slid his right hand down the Gravity Axe to meet his left at the handle. With a triumphant smile, he then spread his arms wide, one weapon wielded in each massive gauntlet as he closed upon his prey.

It was then, when the Crusher rested confident in the knowledge that all he need do was run his exhausted, bleeding enemy down before his own trifling injuries became a factor, that he realized his victory was still nearer at hand. For behind his foe as they rounded the Pillar, sprinting towards them across the sands with unmatched fervor, was Roch’s ally-- the lovely Chosen of Fire. Crying out joyously to see her hale and well, Roch was not blinded to more practical concerns; they had the pirate trapped between them and were closing on him fast… they were both going to be alright!

“Nowhere left to run, Water!” he bellowed. “Net, spear, or Axe, your choice!”

With that, Roch hurled his net at the Champion of Water once again. Whether it was more intended to give a final chance at life or serve as a distraction he could not say.

AQ	Post #: 101

8/26/2008 20:46:33

damselindigital
Member

Wind created from her headlong charge whistled softly against her ears, adding melody to the pounding tempo of her heart. She needed to close the distance between herself and Roch in order to save him from the defiler who dared use her own element to challenge his life. Yet she also needed to cast off her own pursuer and find some method of discouraging it from ever daring threaten her again. It was only with the hope of frantic desperation that she could convince herself both predicaments could be solved simultaneously.

The wish miraculously seemed justified for a glimmering handful of seconds. The man who she had fought initially within the Spike Arena was backing towards her. She knew him to be honorable, but no less deadly for it, and thought perhaps she would be able to convince him to aid her if for no other reason than to continue their long-interrupted duel. Yet it was not to be, for the series of realizations which accompanied what followed next annihilated the thought so that not even an ember of hope remained.

Roch rounded the Water Pillar at a menacing jog.

Alive!

A joy surged through her so pure and intense, she nearly wept in relief. There was a chance now to save him, to protect him from the enemy who would so befoul Fire with its touch. She would make certain that individual would pay in… blood… Her eyes narrowed. The opponent her ward threatened was none other than the one who she had believed to be her salvation not more than a few seconds before. That was right! He had used heat before in a vain attempt to mask himself in a cloud of steam. It had to be this one!

Fury, honed sharp and powerful due to the recent presence of its contrast, rushed through her. Hot, righteous anger clouded her vision so that she became entirely focused on the abomination before her. This man knew no honor. It was a mere front to serve his purpose and allow him to take advantage of others. Yet now his true nature was displayed before her. Betrayer! Liar! Heretic! She would see his life-blood flow for her Lord, for her love, and for herself.

Unable to contain the hatred inside her, Enya roared, creating a harmony with Roch’s own bellow. A melody of lethal intent. As her counterpart released his own attack, she prepared hers. A bola thrummed in the air. Once. Twice. Then it was free from her hand and spinning in deadly revolutions towards the legs of their shared target. His attack was high; hers would strike low at nearly the same instant thanks to the speed of the weapon.

And should he dodge, the blasphemer would find himself pinned by charging spear and crushing axe.

AQ	Post #: 102

8/26/2008 23:08:25

The Dragon Knight
Member

The fury of the woman was unmistakable, and Torrelle had no doubt in his mind that she would kill him without thought of mercy if she had the chance. He had seen her in one of his quick glances, charging across the field of death to the aid of her companion. It was not hard to guess that the cause of her anger was largely due to the feelings she held for the lumbering giant, and the fact that the man had nearly fallen to the pirate's machinations. He knew, now, just why his attack had failed; this woman had somehow interfered with it, although how she could possibly have done this remained a mystery. How else could she have become alerted to the danger that Roch had been in, hidden as they were behind the pillar?

His eyes turned and focused on the metal warrior, face darkening with grim determination. The mocking bellow that echoed dully from within the mighty tank told the wily pirate that the Earth Chosen had also seen the fiery Enya approaching from the far side of the arena. A hint of joy could be heard in the cry, mirroring certainty of victory and relief at seeing one's beloved unharmed. The thought caused Torrelle to wince as his feet dug into the sands, halting his movement. The reminder of love and what it meant to two people only served to fuel his own fury as he recalled that which he had lost so long ago. How dare they mock his pain, his grief? How dare they act as if such feelings for one another absolved them of their injustices? Injury to his mind and body he could easily forgive and forget, but never, ever would he allow someone to injure his heart and pride and go on as if it was of no consequence!

The roiling seas of his rage flared anew, becoming an ocean squall, and that squall swiftly grew to a mighty hurricane within him, giving him strength to strike back at these ignorant wretches who dared to flaunt that which had been stolen from him. He stood his ground, turning so that he faced neither one nor the other. His gaze fluttered back and forth as he waited, tasting those precious few seconds as they dripped in crimson drops from between his tightly pursed lips. He knew that the opportunity was there, it just took patience to find it.

In a flash, he saw it. An epiphany gave him the insight he required as the iron-shod feet of the Crusher crunched closer and closer. Part of the icy trail that had melted lay across the man's path, with the water hidden just below the surface. Knowing he had no time for anything overly fancy, the Maelstrom raised the water the few inches it needed to break the surface just as the giant charged into it. The soft mud was shallow, not even noticeable to the man as he passed on through, and yet it served its purpose. As his feet lifted from the moist ground, the water clung to them, swiftly climbing the back of his leg once more, though in a significantly smaller quantity than the last time. Even with his fury providing the impetus to control this fluid, Torrelle's injuries were simply far too numerous and grave to allow his body to go beyond manipulating a few mere cups full. However, it was all he would need.

The great Earthen Axeman called out, his gruff voice almost choking with laughter at the plight of the wounded seafarer. His ultimatum of net, axe and spear hung in the air, an undisguised insult that spoke volumes for his lack of respect for the seaman's abilities. The man was a fool if he thought that the Pirate Lord of the Western Seas was without one last trick. The bold statement did little to improve the pirate lord's demeanor.

The net hurtled from Roch's hand. As it did so, Torrelle caught the hint of movement from his opposite side that announced the flight of Enya's bola. He knew that he would have one chance to end this, and despite his rage at the injuries they had caused, he had no wish to deprive either of these newly found lovers of the other, if it could be avoided. Nobody deserved to have that fate thrust upon them, as it had him. The strategy that had formed inside of his mind encompassed both foes, and would pit their desire to win against their feelings for one another. Even as the net was tossed, the water was swiftly gathering on the Earth Warrior's back, preparing to leap forward at the command of its master.

He took a chance, launching himself bodily forward, releasing his hold on the precious longsword as he did so. If he failed in this attempt, no amount of swordplay would spare him from the woman's wrath. The time for brute force and the cut and thrust of combat was past; now it was time for something more subtle and sinister.

His dive carried him well out of the bola's limited range, but the metal net had a much larger span. He hit the ground on his hands, prepared to roll forward in a neat somersault, when his feet were suddenly wrapped in the clinging bite of the steel mesh. The dead weight constricted his movement, causing him to crash painfully to the ground. His teeth clacked together from the impact, and he realized from the sudden stabbing pain that another rib had been broken from the fall. He knew full well that he lacked the time to free himself from the trap. Still, it did not matter. He would either win or lose with the move he had planned.

If lady luck was with him, then he would have the time to draw the small volume of water in through the Crusher's mask to encircle the man's heavily muscled neck. The band of water would take on a form as of a collar of spikes, digging in to the flesh, the collar twisting even as it lightly constricted. In so doing, he hoped that the man would realize that Torrelle could easily set the ring to spinning and contracting, shearing through the muscle and sinew until it pierced the vertebrae beneath, severing the head of the Champion of Earth. He also hoped that the man would recognize that the lack of such an event happening immediately was an indication that the pirate would prefer to spare his life, if he could stop the rampage of his ally.

However, whether any of this would come to pass depending largely on whether or not he had enough time to accomplish the task before one or the other of his opponents got close enough to snuff the life out of him. Knowing that his very existence depended on his skills, he focused intently on the water, attempting to mold it to his will. As he did, flashes of his wife's smiling face drifted before his sight, her arms outstretched towards him. Whether she was simply supporting him, or welcoming him to the afterlife, he could not say.

He only knew that he was about to find out.

AQ	Post #: 103

8/28/2008 21:25:31

damselindigital
Member

Triumph!

Water’s Chosen was down, unable to fully escape the combined attack. Prone and tangled within the net of her ally, the Fire Lord’s retribution would be swift and merciless. Her spear, imbued with her Lord’s blessing, would pierce through armor and flesh, tearing lethally through the blasphemer’s vitals. His blood would soak into the already crimson floor of the arena, joining that spilled by so many others over the years. And then, all would be settled. All would be…

Wait. Something in that scenario was wrong and she sought to understand why such a feeling was stirred within her. A single mortal strike was too easy, too quick of an end for this one. He deserved more of a punishment for the crimes he had committed against flame and heat, yet even in her mind she could not find herself able to define an acceptable payment. Perhaps the reason for such, she concluded, was that it was not her place to judge this one. That honor would be reserved for her Lord, for it was His domain and none other that had been impinged upon. Only by these means would his province and glory be restored.

Hand stilled by her reasoning, Enya nevertheless continued her charge towards the fallen form. Had her ally not decided to hesitate at this juncture, she may not have reached their adversary before his longer strides closed the distance. However, he did indeed become cautious and her own unchecked movement carried her swiftly across the remaining stretch of sand.

Her blow caused the Water competitor’s head to snap sharply to the side. A soft shower of sand rained down upon the now-upturned cheek, ensuring that should he be fortunate to ever awaken, there would be an unpleasant feeling of dryness and grit within his slightly opened mouth. Of course, that was if he could get past the pounding headache he would almost certainly have thanks to the violent impact of her boot with his temple. At least her feet were clad in soft hide, far less damaging than many other alternatives, but Enya didn’t think the blasphemer would thank her for providing him such a kindness.

Now that the immediate threat had fallen, Enya stood, chest heaving from a combination of adrenalin and exhaustion from her desperate sprint across the arena grounds. Her eyes sought those of her ally, expression awash in mixed emotions. The Flamekeeper of the Frozen Plateau was undeniably tired and appeared almost comically pitiful in hides now far too large for her shrunken frame. Yet her trials were not yet over despite her inability to prevent her labored breathing from punctuating her words.

“This one… will answer… to my lord.”

AQ	Post #: 104

8/30/2008 18:02:36

Guardian of Nekops
Member

Roch slowed his charge to a trot as the pirate fell beneath his net, smiling at the success of the joint attack. Water’s Champion was down, disarmed, and didn’t appear to have the strength to stand again; all that remained was to bundle the man up in the net, pick him up, and take him to the healers waiting outside the Gates.

Meanwhile, the wounded competitor’s liquid climbed treacherously up the Crusher’s broad back, moving into position to wrap around his neck like a watery garrote, unseen, undetectable until it was too late.

The murderous fluid fell along with Roch’s jaw as Enya slammed her foot into the pirate’s head, whipping his neck to one side with a sickening crack. She looked up at him, panting and conflicted, and announced that the man would be given over to Fire’s judgment.

Tilting his head in confusion, Roch asked, “This man offended your Lord?”

“He brazenly used heat… from Fire’s domain…”

Roch’s mind whirled.

The heating of the water in my armor… how does she know of that? No, not important right now.

She sees it as an affront to her Lord, an affront to Fire, and would offer him up for judgment to Him... but if Earth destroyed all who used blades or armor from His territory the list of survivors would be short indeed.

Enya was being overzealous in defense of her Lord, and as a result she had missed an important fact; Fire would not care. If anyone were to judge this man for his impurity, it would be his own Lord, Water, whose Pillar they were already near.

Roch nodded gravely to his partner and replied, “So be it, then, let him be judged.”

He knelt before the injured man and looked closely at his neck and head, satisfying himself that the pirate would survive a move. He recovered his net and threw it over his shoulder, then lifted the limp body as smoothly as he could in his bulky armor. Though the man was no lightweight himself, the Crusher had no difficulty lifting him, armed as he was with his own native strength and the added power of the Gravity Axe.

“He is a light enough burden for me, Enya, so if you will guard my back and watch him to make sure he does not wake I will deliver him to the footstool of your Lord.”

As for you, Water, he thought as he bore the unconscious man away, if you want his blood yourself you may come and get it. No need for me to make things easy for you.

After all, the Elemental Lords needed no protecting, only honor. They were strong enough to stand on their own. People, on the other hand, even those who had tried to kill you…

As the last three competitors walked peaceably towards the Pillar of Fire, general confusion swept across the crowd. Most still cheered, thinking they meant to cast the helpless buccaneer into the lava, but across the stands dissenting voices began to rise up as well.

“Break her, Crusher!”

“Burn him to a crisp!”

Above all this, clear and distinct even from the arena floor, rose a simple chant that had been taken by many, growing louder and louder as more took up the call.

“Finish it! Finish it! Finish it!”

As they neared the fiery Pillar of magma, the heat of it beginning to warm their faces, Roch turned to Enya with a look of disgust. “I think we’re the last ones left. They’re disappointed that we’re not holding each other’s spleens by now.”

There, close enough to the Pillar to appease Enya’s thirst for vengeance and yet far enough away that the heat itself would not kill him, Roch lay the pirate down. On top of the man he placed his net, thinking to delay him should he come to his senses. Walking a safe distance from the man, he brought Impact down on the tether, severing it neatly from his iron wrist.

Sweat broke anew on his forehead as Fire warmed his armor, and he smiled wanly at his lovely ally-turned-opponent. “I cannot fight you so armed. I promised you quarter and would do you no harm besides for having fought faithfully at my side, but the Axe of Gravity is ill-suited to dealing out mercy.”

< Message edited by Guardian of Nekops -- 8/30/2008 18:12:41 >

AQ	Post #: 105

8/31/2008 23:46:33

damselindigital
Member

Watch his back. That was something Enya was willing to do, and gladly. After all, his rear was quite attractive and despite their dire situation, with the hunter still likely prowling for prey, she felt she could indulge herself a little in taking his words a bit too literally. It was sadly unlikely that they would remain together after these trials were over, but until then, a girl was allowed to dream, wasn’t she?

Of course, she was not foolish enough to forget their location or the lethal situation they had enlisted themselves in, so she watched and noted all that was around them, cautious of any signs of movement. She also paid attention to the crowd, having discovered by this point the tendencies for the spectators to give an unintentional auditory warning when they felt a strike was bound to connect or a trap about to spring. So it was that after some time, she too noted the increasing restlessness of those who were not brave or skilled enough to risk their lives this day.

“Finish it! Finish it! Finish it!”

The mantra caught and spread, growing so strong and powerful that Enya felt that somehow her own body was being darkly infused with their tempo. A chill ran down her spine despite the ambient heat, giving testament to exactly how unnerved she was by the blood thirst. She turned almost fearfully towards her companion, afraid that he might contracted the disease of their desire and turned upon her, but it was only disgust for them that she viewed in his eyes. A sigh of relief parted her lips as he spoke to her.

Though she did not fully understand his words or his implications, she inclined her head in acquiescence. If he needed time to prepare himself for their duel, then she certainly would allow him such. She too could make use of a few minutes to ready herself more fully. Not only that, but she could use the respite to enact the plan she had concocted from the first moment her palm had met the metal of his armor.

And should she win, she indeed would need to plead for his forgiveness.

“Do what you must to ready yourself. I too will use such time to rid myself of weapons and armor no longer needed. And only when we are both sufficiently prepared shall we join in our battle.”

Turning from him, and in doing so displaying her trust of his intentions and his word, she began to shrug out of layer after layer of furred hides. They would no longer serve her, for in the combat that was to come the material would make her clumsy and provide handholds for her once-ally. Each, in turn, was neatly folded and laid upon the sands with a respect and care only seen in those who have never had many possessions and have thus learned to treasure them.

Finally she stood ready in naught but a simple suit of long underwear, a garment that easily revealed exactly how much weight her frame had surrendered during the course of the battle. She was unarmed, unwilling to turn any blade or sharpened point upon this one’s flesh. Instead, she would rely upon her speed and stamina to outmaneuver and outlast her much larger and stronger opponent. He would need to end this quickly if he wished to overcome her, for Enya had not completely abandoned the conflict even when her back was turned. An increase of a few degrees, this close to her Lord’s Pillar, would not be noticed, but they would serve to exhaust and dehydrate the man before the first strike was ever thrown. That was precisely what the woman was relying on.

Because from the moment she had begun to strip, heat had pulsed through Roch’s armor.

AQ	Post #: 106

9/5/2008 2:46:08

Guardian of Nekops
Member

Roch had been on the verge of offering a surrender to the Chosen of Fire, having lost the means to fight her on terms he was willing to pursue, when she suggested her own solution; she would give him time to disarm as she did the same. So simple, and yet not anything he would have thought of doing.

The woman turned her back on him in an incredible show of trust and began to disrobe, removing her clothes layer by layer and placing them neatly on the sand beside her. Roch divested himself of his helmet first and then both gauntlets and watched her, letting Motion and Form fall one at a time as he juggled Impact between them. Of course Enya’s weight deprived her of conventional beauty, and the massive amount she had lost so suddenly did not help either, so watching her undress was hardly erotic. He did, however, find it… intriguing.

After all, the Crusher stood behind her, in full armor, with the irresistible force of Impact in his fist. She stood still, rear exposed as she stripped off layer by layer what meager protection she had from its power. One swing of the Gravity Axe and victory would belong to him… and to Earth. She was giving him the chance to end it, as the crowd was screaming for him to do… and they both knew that he wouldn’t.

Despite how short a time they had been together and the cutthroat nature of their environment, Enya knew him, trusted him as no other person had bothered to in years. For once he was not being worshiped or ignored… a thought that both warmed his heart and burdened it, knowing that he had to fight her.

Roch stretched backwards and down with the arm that held Impact, reaching into the joint with his bare fingers to find the clasp that was barely uncovered by the movement. Switching Impact to the other hand, he repeated the procedure on his left side, hindered slightly by the soreness that was still bothering him from the shattering of his shield. He finally managed to get the left side unhooked and the massive plate on his back fell to the sand. As soon as he undid the clasps that held his breastplate to the iron shoulders, it fell free as well, burying the exposed ley lines of the armor’s heart in the red sands.

Sweat poured freely down his face, his armor hotter around him than mere sun could account for. Though he had thought himself far enough from the Fire Pillar to be spared any great amount of heat, apparently he was wrong.

Roch continued to work his way down his body swiftly, freeing each metal piece to drop one by one, leaving them where they lay as the Champion of Fire carefully folded her own gear. He kept Impact in hand until he had removed the armor from his thighs, then cast it down as the lowered weight of his body was no longer needed.

Sitting down on the arena floor, Roch began to tug at the massive spiked boots, trying to free his feet. Water trickled down from the greaves, brought there, likely, by the pirate’s attack. The liquid had soaked into his shoes, swelling the leather and making them difficult to remove from the metal encasing them.

After a few moments of futile struggling as the crowd grew more and more impatient, Roch began to attack his laces instead. Before long he was able to slip his stocking feet free, then remove his socks as well and stuff them back into the iron boots.

Roch wiped the sweat from his brow as he regained his feet, the red grains stuck to his hand raking roughly across his open pores. The sand was quite warm beneath his feet this close to the Pillar of Fire, but it wasn’t hot enough to burn and felt good between his toes as he prepared his body, hopping back and forth and stretching his arms as he enjoyed his newfound freedom. Although he was no lighter, per say, than when he had worn the armor thanks to the effect of the Gravity Axe, his range of movement was much greater in just his clay-spattered potter’s garb.

Flexing his arms and fingers and taking a few dancing steps to accustom his body to the open air, Roch turned at last to she who had been his ally just moments before. It was a cruel fate indeed that demanded he fight her; she had not only been a friend in Spike and a loyal ally in the earlier fights here, but it was likely that she had saved his life against the Champion of Energy, when his bridge had begun to fail. It was certain that her quick action had saved him later, when the broken cat had tried to destroy them both after its defeat. To attempt at this point to wrest victory from her grasp, to risk hurting her, was almost unthinkable.

Almost. Despite how faithful a companion Enya had been to him these last few hours, he had not come this far for her. Roch was here for Earth’s glory, as Enya was for Fire’s… it was too late for either of them to turn back now.

Seeing that his opponent was ready, Roch nodded to her and sighed, “Here I come.”

Roch threw his arms and legs wide in a classic wrestler’s stance, fingers splayed and ready to snatch at Fire’s Chosen should she come near. He took a step towards her slowly, deliberately as he decided upon his next move… he was not fast enough to catch her and his Alchemy was spent, so he would need a plan.

The neat pile of furs by Enya’s feet caught the Crusher’s gaze, and he grinned broadly as he burst into action. Leaping from his cautious pose straight into a charge, he drew his arm back and clenched his fist. Upon reaching the lady, he threw a mighty punch towards her face and hoped she managed to dodge it.

AQ	Post #: 107

9/6/2008 1:40:37

damselindigital
Member

“Here I come.”

Enya spun, finally turning to face her tragic opponent. His stance was wide and forthright as he squared himself up with her. There were plenty of openings in his position for a swift blow, but Enya suspected at least some of them were false. This warrior had proven over and over again exactly how experienced he was in matters of combat. Underestimating him would be… fool-hearty. With a single step towards her, she could see him attempting to evaluate their situation, to find some sort of plan or advantage to use against her. It was sensible enough, of course, for she had already done the same against him. What she really wanted, even needed, was for him to launch one of his more suicidal attacks. She needed him to provide her an opening.

His sudden charge provided.

Idiotic. She watched him rush at her, refusing to react right away. The punch was telegraphed well in advance by a large arc to the side of his body. It was an attack designed to drop the target in the first blow, something that, to Enya’s surprise, tended to be the first and last recourse of those much less experienced in battle. He really should have known better. Instead, she met his gaze and smiled sadly with true regret for what had brought them to this point and for the counter she was about to perform. Surprise here, especially if she could compound it and make him pull his punch slightly, would serve her far better than anything else.

Then, when it appeared all but inevitable that the blow would land truly upon her mournful and upturned face, and the crowd roared for the long awaited spilling of blood, she sprang into action like a crouched wolf. Her right foot shot back, twisting her body so that only her side was presented to her opponent while her left arm simultaneously raced forward. The heel of her palm struck his exposed bicep in an effort to lessen the force of his own blow even as she used her own upper arm to cover her ear and face. This left him only her own bicep or the hard bone of her skull as a target, and the latter would cause far more damage to his hand than her head. For her, there would only be pain, instead of debilitating injury, and that was something easily fought through.

Best of all, this left her right hand free for a hopefully unexpected counterattack. Utilizing the ridge of her hand, she aimed carefully for the bundle of nerves in the underside of his jaw.

AQ	Post #: 108

9/15/2008 2:41:23

Guardian of Nekops
Member

Roch’s grin broadened as he drew nearer and nearer to Enya and her oh-so-useful pile of furs. Before long the woman would be forced to abandon them, finally giving Roch some sort of weapon to work with.

Except Enya wasn’t dodging, wasn’t even flinching from the blow that would level her, that would smash into her sad, beautiful face. The punch that he had meant only as a threat to drive her away was actually going to land, doing untold damage.

Roch lost his nerve.

The mighty fist swung wide of its target, its deviance aided a second later by Enya’s rising palm. Her counter easily swept the pulled punch aside, and it grazed her skull only lightly as it passed. With no time to think beyond feeling a vague sense of betrayal, he snaked his right arm around behind her and began to move his left into position as well. If the woman was foolish enough to let him get so close, then a wrestling match it would become.

Before he could get his arms locked around her, however, pain blossomed beneath his jaw, sharp and terrible. How such a light blow could have broken something there, or what was there to break in the first place, Roch could not say, but there was no other explanation for the unbearable pain that drove his head up and back, fleeing without resistance from the merciless source. Hands clenched instinctively as he began to fall backwards, wrapping themselves in the loose folds of Enya’s clothing.

Finally his attacker’s hand slipped free of his jaw, releasing him from the pain just before it toppled them both. Regaining his balance, the Champion of Earth tugged Enya closer to him and gripped onto his own arms behind her. Though he was panting heavily from his exertions and his recent agony, the Crusher grinned regardless as he began to squeeze his opponent in his vice-like grip.

“Gotcha!” he grunted, triumphant.

AQ	Post #: 109

9/19/2008 2:08:03

damselindigital
Member

The blow which landed upon her skull was even less forceful than she had been hoping for. There was pain, yes, but it would not slow her or even send her to reeling. Of course, with that little strength, there was no real chance Roch had injured his hand either. Yet Enya’s heart was glad for this, even as she continued her struggle against him.

He was faster than she had credited him with now that he had removed his massive suit of armor. Even though she had witnessed him in combat without its protection, the Firekeeper had not expected him to react so quickly. Before her own strike even found its target, he began to wrap his arms about her. In any other situation, she likely would have welcomed such closeness, but she knew that if he was allowed to entrap her, she likely did not possess the strength or skill to slip free. Yet when her blow struck true and she saw him reel beneath its largely harmless but incredibly painful effects, Enya felt herself to be safe from such a fate. But suddenly, seemingly inexplicably, she too was pulled off balance. Why it should be so, her mind raced to try and comprehend.

Her clothes!

She had stripped down as far as she dared and he still had managed to gain vital handholds upon her. Likely Enya could have escaped then had she been willing to sacrifice this final layer of cloth, but modesty restrained her. All those eyes were already upon her! She had heard the cat-calls as she had discarded her other garments, tauntingly insulting in her ears, for she knew it was not due to her own beauty that they were issued but rather her lack of it. There was no question in her mind that she would rob the spectators of further reason to disrespect her, even if it cost her an advantage.

So it was that Roch managed to recover and close his embrace about her, almost painful in its strength. Embraced… maybe she could use that against him after all. Deciding to make the ultimate sacrifice, she cupped the back of his head with both hands, having blessedly avoided getting her arms trapped between them. Pulling herself upwards while tilting Roch’s head towards her, she managed to close the distance she required.

“Well now, honey, if you had wanted this kind of attention, you should have just said so.”

Then she kissed him, fully and passionately, if a bit inexpertly, upon the lips. She had not expected or desired her first kiss to be witnessed and judged by thousands of people, but sometimes, Enya had found, you just needed to seize a moment and do what was required. After all, she was fairly certain that besides being nearly as enjoyable as she imagined it would be, the action would provide her the opportunity she vitally needed. Pulling away, she winked at him roguishly.

“Though I must say, I would have preferred to do that without an audience.”

Triumph! His grasp upon her loosened, even as she fought to keep her own embarrassment hidden beneath her bold bluster. It was all she needed and, by using his own shoulders as aids, she pushed herself down and free from his arms. Knowing her little trick would not work a second time, Enya swore to learn her lesson. That of course meant she needed to get out from before him and find some other form of advantage. Performing a tight roll forward and to her right, she managed to accomplish the former and, as she completed the revolution, a backwards thrust kick, aimed for his left knee, provided the latter.

“Sorry, honey. Even though I loved it, I do mean to win.”

AQ	Post #: 110

9/23/2008 2:16:43

Guardian of Nekops
Member

Warmth flooded into Roch as Enya reached up, taking his head in her hands and guiding it down to meet her lips.

Somewhere in Roch’s mind, there was a little voice that screamed that all this must be a trick. There was even another that insisted that, trick or no, he really ought to be focusing on the battle at hand. Both of these reasonable points of view were abundantly drowned out, however, by the parades, cheering crowds, and fireworks in the mayor’s wake as he waddled his merry little way to go present Enya with the key to the city.

Roch’s arms gently shifted, his eyes drifting closed as the last remnants of the Crusher melted away. No longer was he trying to squeeze the life out of his opponent, no… instead he cradled the girl, pulled her to him with a sweet strength as his lips parted to respond to her attentions.

So that’s what all the fuss is about, his mind cooed contentedly.

Then, one glorious moment later, the peerless Chosen of Fire pulled away to look up at him with a wink. Holding her loosely in his arms, Roch beamed down at her, clearly embarrassed but far too happy to notice.

Enya pulled away further, sharply this time, and the contented Champion of Earth let her go without a second thought. After all, the last thing he would want to do was force himself on the marvelous creature, despite his reluctance to see her go.

A full three seconds before he would otherwise have realized his tactical error, the Firekeeper’s kick slammed into the back of his left knee and he went down. His hands shot upwards to protect him as the moment shattered, one landing on the red arena sands and the other upon Enya’s pile of furs. Both fists clenched in their respective materials as he tried to make sense of it all in the little time he had left, tried to summon up the rage that would lend him the speed and power he would need to recover here…

…her lips, warm, soft, moving against his own…

…but his heart was not in it.

The hand that held the first two layers of furs swung lazily round towards his rear as he rolled to face his opponent, far too slow, far too weak to save him. Where at that moment anger should be, where terror and drive should be screaming their outrage at what had just happened, there was only one lost little thought.

She… she had to mean it, at least a little… right?

Please?

AQ	Post #: 111

9/24/2008 0:30:37

damselindigital
Member

Enya twisted as she stood, coming to face Roch in case he could recover more quickly than she expected. After all, he had surprised her on numerous counts already and she could not be certain of anything, least of all his reaction to this most unusual of maneuvers. What met her eyes not only drained all her remaining desire to continue their pointless struggle... it also broke her heart.

The pain in his eyes... the utter confusion and betrayal.

This was not what she wanted, what she expected. Then again... she was uncertain of what she had expected. How was an inexperienced woman like her to have known it would be so damaging?

You should have known. It would have devastated you.

Shut up!

But it was too late. Enya’s inner voice had spoken the undeniable truth and the force of her guilt at using such an advantage against this fair and noble man crushed all other thoughts and emotions before it. In trying to win the competition, she had lost what was truly important. She had not actually believed, for all her bluster, that anyone could see beyond her status and age to care and love for her. A large portion of her had felt that Roch’s small affections had been nothing more than a game he was playing that she could pretend were real for a time in order to dream. Never had she considered that such could be true. And now, in her ignorance, the lonely Firekeeper had completely lost the one gift she longed for above all others.

She could not... would not... weep for her loss in front of the masses. They had already seen too much of her vulnerability, had jeered and laughed at her appearance. She would not allow them to witness this greatest of defeats. Even as her own discarded garments passed unhindered through the air, she forced a smile. It was a transparent expression to any who could look closely, but what was important now, as it always had been, was to maintain the illusion of strength despite never before feeling weaker. Respect was all she had, all she ever would possess, and she could not lose it.

Love was, as it had ever been, completely beyond her grasp.

“I...” Her voice broke and wavered, so she paused before trying again. “I believe the competition is mine.”

She approached then, boldness masking her vulnerability, and held out a hand. It was a foolish gesture, as she was leaving herself open. If he wished to contest that claim, he likely could down her with a single strike. Her heart almost wished he would.

“You were an honorable opponent. I was not. Perhaps one day you will forgive me, but I do not expect it.”

AQ	Post #: 112

9/24/2008 1:10:48

Guardian of Nekops
Member

The furs Roch was swinging so clumsily came nowhere close to striking Enya, and they slapped harmlessly to the sand as his eyes met hers. Before her hastily erected smile of triumph and through its thin façade, Roch saw… or hoped he saw, at any rate… a deeper pain, a sorrow that resonated with that within his own heart.

When her voice failed her as she attempted to announce the fight was over, he was certain. She had been… shaken by this just as he had, and for some reason she needed this victory, this outward shield of confidence, to keep from being swept away. That much, at least, Roch could easily forgive.

The hurt expression on the warrior’s face softened, though it did not brighten as he reached up gently to take the offered hand in his. Pushing himself up onto one knee, he bowed his head for the benefit of the crowd and the assembled Lords and cried, “Yes, you have bested me indeed. Hail, Champion!”

Then came the more delicate work, meant for her alone. Still kneeling in the position of submission, he looked up to her face and squeezed her hand with a forced smile. The crowd erupted in applause, masking his words from all ears save hers.

“But if you want me to forgive you, you’ll have to stick around long enough to let me.”

With that, Roch rose to his feet under his own power, bringing her hand briefly to his lips as he did so.

AQ	Post #: 113

9/28/2008 23:22:25

Ronin Of Dreams
Still Watching...

A cloaked figure among the throngs of cheering (and in some cases jeering) spectators nods softly as the action slips away on the arena sands. He nods towards one of the many official staff mages ringing the arena's protective shields. "That...just about does it, I think. Shame, but what an upset to the end. Ronin will be amused, I'm sure." The cloaked figure stands, grabbing the staff next to him and forcing his way through the bodies of all those in his way as he fights to get down to the bottom rung of seats. He nods again to the official. "Bring it down, Charley, time to be calling this shindig."

The great shield surrounding the stands shimmered as the mage turned to focus upon it. Soon too, the other mages located around the great ring take their positions at the unbidden signal and focus great effort on shutting the spellwork down. Like so many building blocks arranged as a tall tower, the shield seemed to fall away in pieces and tidbits. As soon as the scintillating display seemed to quiet down, letting the roars of the crowd spill inside the protected dome in full, unrestrained volume, the man vaulted into the Arena with a roll. His cloak was shucked during the motion, revealing the brown-haired visage of Arcadius to both crowd and, if they ever seemed to stop focusing on one another, the competitors as well. With a breath, his otherwise soft baritone bellowed out for all to hear.

"Well, well, well. We have at last come to our conclusion for the year, I fear, and both competition and entertainment is now at an end. Fire takes the honor of the win, stealing it out from under Earth's solid grasp. I give you your winner, and runner-up, Enya of the Frozen Plateau and Roch the Crusher!" Arcadius gestures over to the pair with an elaborate flourish and a bow, letting the roar of the crowd redouble in volume to an almost palpable force.

Turning, Arcadius strides over to the pair, stopping a short distance away. "Ahem...I hope I'm not interrupting something, mind. Still, not the right place for romance, eh? I'm Arcadius Corosco, assistant to the Ronin in regards to this entire affair. The sands still make me shiver, considering what happened last time I was here...but aaaaaaanyway, ignore my rambling. It will take a short time for the various clerical orders to get up to speed and the officials to bring out the items for the Crowning. If either of you need a Healer, I can arrange for such, but its a bit more traditional to receive the Crowning and any other gifts that may be presented before such. Oh, and it will take a moment for the Ronin to arrive to do that, too, but that's because he was absent in fairness of a potential request.

"Soooo...can I get either of you anything in the meantime?"

AQ	Post #: 114

10/1/2008 22:51:27

damselindigital
Member

“But if you want me to forgive you, you’ll have to stick around long enough to let me.”

Enya’s heart lepted, hopeful, disbelieving, because by all rights she did not deserve the chance he was offering to her. As he kissed her hand in a gesture so chivalrous that it only served to shamefully remind her of her own ignoble actions against him, she nevertheless met his gaze.

“I will not be a big enough fool to say no.”

She wanted to embrace him for the chance that he was providing, to display her appreciation for the boon he was granting to her with those words. Yet her fear of losing the respect of all those who watched kept her from performing the more brash courses of action that raced through her mind and she could only tighten her fingers about his own to help convey to him exactly how she felt. But before the moment could stretch into awkwardness, the full roaring volume of the attendant crashed down upon them as the protective spells began to fall away.

And when the official announced the results, Enya did not think there was anything on Lore which could rival the sound.

There were offers of healing amidst talk of preparations for the upcoming ceremony, yet she stood uncertainly. From one foot to the other she shifted her weight while the stranger chatted, nay rambled, cordially to them both. A sense of embarrassment froze her tongue for a time, especially as some of the official’s words indicated that what she had rather wished to have kept private had not, in fact, escaped the notice of at least one other. And here she was already, standing about in her underwear...

By the Fire Lord! She was still in her underwear!

Forgetting entirely the offer for healing, she hurriedly turned to scoop up her discarded garments after tossing the coat over her shoulders. Drawing the material over her body, her cheeks flushed hot and red even as her own natural assertiveness once again took hold. Turning towards the closest arena wall, she bellowed back at the crowd.

“Well, I think that’s more than enough of a show for all of you today!”

AQ	Post #: 115

10/7/2008 0:33:07

Guardian of Nekops
Member

Most people who knew him well would judge the Crusher to be naïve; he accepted this, agreed for the most part with their assessment, and continued to live that way regardless. He was durable enough in most respects to withstand the blows treachery and pettiness might bring, and he clung firmly to the belief that people were worth the risk.

This trust, however, was folly even for him. Thick as his armor may be, it would do nothing to protect him from the pain should she casually reject him, cast him aside as just one more casualty on her way to the Crown. Not after surrendering to her, after making such a desperate effort to keep her near.

The damage would be severe, but he had no choice. This was the first time-- the only time in his thirty-odd years of life-- that he had felt this way, and he would not let it end here on the arena sands. Not if there was any chance for another way.

“I will not be a big enough fool to say no.”

Roch beamed gently as Enya squeezed his hand back, a wave of relief washing over him. He would not be left alone, not this day, and all the other events of the day started to dim in comparison to that happy fact.

Just as he was about to wrap his arms around her, the cheers of the crowd flooded into the arena as the magical shield crumbled, pieces glittering to the last. Looking up to watch the great dome die, Roch saw a cloaked figure leap with surprising grace to the arena sands. The garment fell away as he stood and Roch recognized the face of the Quiksilver Guardian from two years prior, now revived and made whole despite the continued presence of his image at the Great Tree. Though he was briefly confused to see the man there, his mind was put to rest as the former Guardian bellowed out the results of the Championship.

Happy to see this further honor of life and authority bestowed upon the proud warrior for Earth who had fallen before the Crusher first stepped upon the sands of the Great Arena, Roch nodded deeply in greeting and respectfully said the man’s name before he introduced himself.

“Arcadius.”

As the man rambled on, far more cheerful and verbose than Roch’s grave image of him would have suggested, an amused smile spread across the Crusher’s face. The killing was done for the day, the trickery and striving for dominance behind them. He had not emerged triumphant, true, but he had not embarrassed himself and his Lord either. Now was the time for pleasantries, and for more important things than death and glory.

Looking over at the somewhat embarrassed Enya with a fond smile, he thought, And now there’s a chance, just a chance mind, that I might find out what those things are.

Suddenly the new Champion blushed as red as her Pillar and rushed off to get her coat, drawing it about her self-consciously as she yelled at the crowd for gawking at her. Roch took one step after her, seeing how upset she was and wishing to hug her, calm her down. Before he got any further, however, he stopped. Enya was obviously quite embarrassed already, and he believed that she was holding herself in check for the crowd… save for the kiss, of course. Approaching her now might make things worse for her, and besides, there would be plenty of time for that later. If she wished it, of course.

Instead, Roch turned back to Arcadius and shrugged slightly. “It seems she doesn’t require a Healer, at any rate. I myself am similarly fine, but it might be a tad… anticlimactic for me to gather up the pieces of my armor and get dressed. It takes a good deal of balancing and maneuvering, what with the weight and Impact and only having two hand, and it’s really sort of necessary to have a wall or a weapons rack to lean on, and even with one it takes a long time. Normally I’d just use Alchemy, but… all in all, if you have something like a cart handy, to throw the armor pieces in and wheel them out of the Arena, I’d be most grateful.”

AQ	Post #: 116

10/8/2008 16:23:47

Ronin Of Dreams
Still Watching...

Arcadius stood bemused at Enya's reactions, all thought of pomp and circumstance thrown away in the mere desire for clothing. Quite the refreshing experience, truth be told. His mind always replayed his own resurrection about this time, and that was a mass of painful memories in its own right. Laughing softly, Arcadius bowed his head towards Roch in the meantime and answered that man's concerns. "I wouldn't worry so much about your armor, I'm sure the Priests of Earth and one of the staff smiths would be pleased as peaches to collect it for you. Not often they have cause to celebrate a veteran competitor, really, even if victory seemed stolen from you again. Not that I'm complaining, but I might be tempted to nip off and take a look at your own work. You have a room somewhere, yes?"

Without waiting for an answer, Arcadius waved behind him and started the flurry of motion among staff hidden behind the gateways. "Well, either way, we'll get your armor in one piece somewhere. Maybe in the vestibule of the temple for Earth if not your room. Well, all the pieces together, I should say. You just rest and put it from your mind, eh Roch? You've earned a break even if put through much different paces this time through then when last you stood here."

Staff, meanwhile, kept a brisk pace of sweeping flat the sands towards the center of the arena while others brought in the beginnings of an easily assembled dais for the celebration. Others went about clearing the debris on the field from battle, while priests ringed the various pillars even as they began to lose their luster and vibrancy. Turning pack into mute, stone pillars as happened each year after the tournament, to weather time without an expenditure of power from any source. Throughout the hustle and bustle, one other figure appeared to be leaning on the gate to the Pillar of Water, waiting on something amidst the impressively numerous staff before walking out into the field as well.

AQ	Post #: 117

10/9/2008 18:34:34

damselindigital
Member

Enya spun away from the crowd in a self-righteous huff. In a fashion, she had to fuel her outrage or the thought of being so scantily clad in front of such a large number of people would have frozen her in embarrassment. There were tasks yet she must perform, however, and thus could not allow herself to tarry. After all, this was not simply her victory. It belonged to one other as well.

Her stride brought her before Fire’s Pillar, where she had stood to place her mark upon the sands and pay homage to her Lord. It seemed fitting to her that in at the end she should return and, kneeling, once again to bow her head in respect. As she abandoned her claim before the pillar, in her heart she felt the action, performed mentally rather than physically, truly signified the closure to the battles that had been fought. And when she reopened her eyes that had been closed in reverence, she witnessed the cooling of the monument and knew that her Lord agreed.

The ceremony now would be more for those who witnessed these events, rather than for either herself or her patron. She had achieved everything she had come to this place to prove, even the silly little girlish dreams she had never expected to find a place in reality. Yet she would follow through with the ceremony, for her training as Firekeeper had also imparted an understanding and respect for the necessity of such flamboyant gestures. But first, there was one last thing Enya wished to do.

She scooped up the glass plate which read “Good luck” and was signed by the man that had been her ally, opponent, and who, she suspected, she would be leaving the arena beside. Carefully she tucked it into a pocket of her coat before finally standing and returning confidently to Roch and the official named Arcadius, though she had to struggle with a silly grin for the former that threatened to spoil the serious tone that was necessary to the proceedings.

“Well then… I believe I am prepared. Though I have to admit, I am uncertain now as to what is to follow.”

AQ	Post #: 118

10/14/2008 1:39:03

Guardian of Nekops
Member

Roch only half-listened to Arcadius’s answer, though he was paying enough attention to cringe at the mention of his armor mounted in the vestibule of Earth’s temple, an object of worship however briefly.

By heaven and Earth, the madness is spreading!

Most of Roch’s notice, unsurprisingly, went to Enya. She approached her Lord’s Pillar and knelt in prayer, thanking Him, no doubt, for her victory this day. The Crusher turned a guilty eye to the Great Tree, ashamed at first that he had not thought to do the same. He had not won the competition, of course, but his life and limb had been spared, and there was no doubt that he had been richly blessed this day…

Roch smiled wryly at himself as even his thoughts of gratitude turned away, abandoning their proper focus on his Lord and centering themselves once again on the lovely Champion for Fire… just Champion, now. Looking back to her, he saw her lift up the plate of glass he had created at the beginning of the match and tuck it away fondly as a special reminder, and his heart warmed.

He also noticed, despite his careful training to the contrary, that her own behind left little to be desired. And though he wasn’t sure how as yet, she had lost a good deal of weight this day… weight that he found himself looking forward to her regaining.

Roch blushed furiously as Enya turned around and started her way back to them, resisting the urge to wrap her in his arms once she came in reach. Although he himself was hardly concerned with the eyes that were upon them, either mortal or divine, it was clear that she did care and he would not make her look a fool.

AQ	Post #: 119

10/16/2008 21:19:55

Ronin Of Dreams
Still Watching...

Arcadius leisurely spun the staff he carried and planted it into the sands of the arena, activating the hidden catch to dig a secreted spear blade deeply to help anchor both weapon and man. He was undoubtedly amused at the second-time runner up, far more so than the peculiarities of the actual Champion. She, at least, had reason enough to be in a huff and had followed a more traditionally devoted method of praise. Unlike the hulk of a man, and Arcadius could tell by the blush, who had to be thinking of anything but honoring the Lord of Earth in a devotion he nominally shared with Roch. Nominally. Turning his head with a grin, he regarded Enya as she approached once more.

"Good! Excellent! Not that there was a rush on your part, but I guess that gives me plenty of time to make you aware of what's what. Once preparations are completed, what with the dais being erected and your obligatory carpet of various flower petals, you'll be led by a procession of priests to the dais. Priests of Fire, mind you. On either side will flank the priests tending to the temples dedicated to the other temples, in the order that they were eliminated from the tournament. Some words will be spoken, mostly chants of a Gregorian nature in languages neither you nor I have a hope of understanding, and then you'll formally receive the rights to your boon as well as any other gifts the priests likely have on hand for you. After that, you'll also be crowned by the current head guy of this whole affair, and I use the title loosely as he loathes any such title." He winks at Roch, though he says nothing. "Once that's done...its over. Well, the formalities at least, but I don't deal with bodyguard detail for any fans or whatnot wanting autographs...or worse...considering you became Champion over several odds-maker favorites."

While Arcadius chatted distractingly about the various formal details that awaited Enya, the figure that had been waiting in shadows cut through the active staff amidst the sands of the Arena and ghosted up behind Roch. The man beneath the cloak eventually laid his hand upon Roch's shoulder, and chuckled. "Good to see some sights *do* change with the ages, eh friend?" Ronin's eyes glinted, peering out from the cloak up at Roch, mirth dancing in his eyes. Meanwhile, all around them, the crowd continued to be rowdy and loud as bets are settled and commentary begins anew. Even as the staff itself tried to get them to hush down and rush finishing the preparations for the Crowning.

AQ	Post #: 120

10/27/2008 23:33:46

damselindigital
Member

The rosy color that remained from her earlier embarrassment completely drained from Enya’s face. She had forgotten about the prize for the tournament, having desired instead the respect granted from the Champion’s crown; a respect that she now knew she never needed to begin with. It was not until this point that she realized a boon would be granted to her in short order. And she had no idea what to ask for. Her panicked gaze, darting back and forth between Roch and Arcadius, quickly turned sheepish.

“The ceremony I can handle, I’m sure. I’m used to such rituals being necessary, but I… forgot about the blessing. I didn’t really give it any thought at all and now I… Well, what sorts of things are generally requested?” This first question was clearly directed towards the official, while the following, “What… would you ask for?” was meant for Roch.

As she waited for their answers, she hoped desperately that at least some of their words might strike a spark of inspiration in her.

AQ	Post #: 121

10/30/2008 17:49:30

Guardian of Nekops
Member

At the feeling of a hand on his shoulder, Roch jumped slightly and whipped his head around, the wrong way at first. Turning his head the other way, he looked up at Ronin and squinted at him, confused by the man’s comment. The only sense he could sift from it was some reference to Enya, something he should take offense at, probably… but for the sake of his old companion the Crusher abandoned this inkling as well.

Smiling wryly back at the cloaked official, he replied, “And good as well to see that some things never change, you incomprehensible old poet.” His smile softened as he remembered the great ordeal they had gone through together a short time past, and he continued, “You have been well, I hope? No… complications?”

When Enya spoke, her uncertainty quickly stole Roch’s attention. Although he felt sorry for the girl and knew how… terrifying it must be to have to make such a huge decision so quickly, a part of him was pleased. Most people had no shortage of things they would ask for, given the power of the Lords to do with as they saw fit, and most of those were very bad things. Not meant for evil, perhaps, but rooted in ambition, in mindless pain, or in foolish optimism… and there were many wishes that the Lords themselves couldn’t grant. Or, at any rate, that they should not.

Looking to Arcadius for an answer, Roch gave the man a moment to struggle for a reply. With none forthcoming from the Guardian’s mold, the defeated Champion for Earth composed his own mind and prepared his own suggestion.

“Most would ask, I think, for someone they lost back again… be it a lover, a child, or a good friend who has passed before their time. Though, if there were any in your life who were not well and peacefully laid to rest, I assume you would not be at a loss for what to ask. It would, likely, have been the reason you came.” At this, Roch lapsed for a time into thoughtful silence.

“There is always power to ask for, I suppose, but I would suggest another course. Is there anything that you fear? If so, this is a perfect opportunity to rid yourself from that danger, to gain a talisman that would protect you from it.” With a slight blush, he added, “I’m afraid of magic, especially magic that can control my armor. Someone tried to use me as a siege weapon a few years back, before I learned Alchemy, and there was nothing I could do about it… worst feeling of my life. Fortunately, my Lord saved me before I could be made to do anything I regret, which is what brought me here in the first place.”

With a sigh, he continued, “If the Crown were mine, I would ask for an Acorn from the Great Tree, enchanted to send the magic that struck it to the ley lines deep within the Earth. There it would do no damage, and I think the Earth-touched channels in my armor would be enough to bring the magic to the grounding point from any side. That way, I would not need to fear my armor being controlled again for evil ends.” He smiled sheepishly at the lovely Enya. “A mere trifle, really, but it is all I can really think of. After all, most things in this world that really matter can’t be handed to you by force of raw power, no matter how great.”

Realizing that his reply had probably lasted longer than it should have done, the Crusher shrugged slightly. “I do hope that helps, but there are worse things than not knowing what to ask for. I am fairly certain that the boon is not a requirement, so you can abstain if you wish…”

At this, Roch looked over his shoulder at the Ronin, seeking confirmation.

AQ	Post #: 122

12/5/2008 12:01:50

Ronin Of Dreams
Still Watching...

Casting back the hood of his cloak to reveal the newly salt & pepper coloration of his hair, Ronin chuckled lightly. “None to speak of, friend, just weary old bones settling into the prospect of the many years remaining to me. Quite the eye-opener, all told, as you might remember. Ah, but mortality is a boon and I would hope you never forget it.” Turning to Enya, he bowed lightly in respect of his new equal amidst Champions. “Nor, I think, would I wish you to need to learn why in your wishes.” He colored faintly, embarrassed if only for calling her out on such in advancement of her choice, and hushed as he stepped lightly aside as Roch came forward to answer her voiced query.

With a silent shrug, Arcadius merely listened to Roch's own suggestions rather than adding his own to Enya's considerations. His life was abject lesson alone, even if Enya perhaps was unknowing of it, and he had little wish to influence her choices with anything he might otherwise consider. A simple man of simple pleasures, or at least that was what he styled himself as these days. Still, he was impressed at Roch's own forethought towards what would have been his own wish, and it fit with what he had been told of the man. 'Wise beyond his years, and at least humble with regards to the powers he would ask for. This man will go far in life, and the world will be better for it, no matter how much blood may be spilled in his role as a warrior.'

Ronin, meanwhile, was touched that Roch looked towards him for confirmation...as if he would know what the Lords themselves might actually be willing to do. “I would believe, at least, that a delay is possible. While I've never heard of one being needed in the past, there's a first time for everything, and the Lords likely know enough about the lives of we mortals to realize that not quite everyone fights with the conviction of 'I want', but rather for different reasons. If you have need, I am sure you have but to ask them when the time comes due.”

Arcadius jumped in surprise as a little girl not more than six in age tugged upon his pant leg, startling him from the gentle conversation of mentor, Champion and runner-up. He turned and, upon spotting the little lass, crouched down to listen to her whispers and look over the basket in her arms. “Ahhh, I see, I see. Rose petals, petunias, and daffodils is it?” Politely, he ran his hand through the mixed flower petals within the basket, as if evaluating her choices. “Well now, that will do perfectly well, that it will. And with more in the wings, you said? Excellent indeed! Now go on back with the rest, and oh won't your mother be beaming with pride as you lead the Champion in.” Gently, he turned the girl around, slipping an extra gold into her hand with her none the wiser for the moment.

The lithe man grinned and pulled his spear out from the sands in which it anchored him, nodding to the illustrious trio in his midst before turning around. His voice deepened slightly as he boosted his own volume to bellow out to the staff. “Places everybody, places! If you haven't wrapped it up by now, you didn't practice hard enough to get it right! We have a Crowning to do! TODAY everybody!” Arcadius chuckled once more before turning back to address Enya. “Whenever you please, m'lady. Several priests will be awaiting you by the gate behind your elemental pillar to lead you in procession. Take as much time as you need to prepare for the occasion.”

Sheathing the spear-blade back into the silvery shaft, Arcadius began to slowly twirl his weapon while wondering off to check over certain details at the last moment, leaving the trio to themselves. Ronin, meanwhile, seemed reluctant to continue the conversation too far. “Well, Roch, I will be staying at the Lazy Lamb in Bren these next few days. I know the innkeep there quite well...that, and I brought in a buck last season, so he still cuts me a deal on my stay. We'll have days to catch up and regale each other with tales of what we've both been up to there, if you can spare such time.” He smiled at the larger man, and bowed to Enya. “After all, I do have a job here today as well.”

AQ	Post #: 123

6/11/2009 15:55:02

damselindigital
Member

Enya returned Arcadius’ respectful bow with a deep one of her own before turning her attention back upon Ronin and Roch.

“Thank you for your advice, both of you. I will think on your words, but I suppose it is best not to keep everyone waiting further, especially if such a boon can indeed be delayed if necessary.”

Her next smile was meant only for Earth’s representative.

“But don’t you wander far, all right?”

Barely stopping a girlish giggle, she instead managed to set her shoulders back in a more dignified posture as she proceeded to the gate where she had entered. There she was met by a number of priests who had arranged themselves in the order in which the representatives had been eliminated from the tournament. Young girls stood near the front of the procession, smiling nervously as they held baskets full of flower petals, while an elegant woman waited at the rear with a covered velvet pillow. There was time for a few last instructions, and then the ceremony began.

Walking upon a carpet of flower petals from plants the woman of the north could never hope to identify, Enya strode once more across the sands of the arena. Surrounding her were the priests, chanting in a language she also was unable to understand. It was so foreign, and yet in a way familiar, for presentation, respect, and tradition were what she had been taught extensively upon. It was beautiful in its way, and she was almost certain it fulfilled everything that was expected from the crowd, the competitors, and perhaps even the Lords themselves. Yet as she went through the motions, her mind was elsewhere. With a man so noble he had fallen for her every trick.

She knew she had much to atone for.

As she ascended the stairs of the central raised dais, head high and shoulders back, she breathed a quiet sigh of relief. Enya had arrived at her decision and she knew now what she would ask.

It would not make up for everything. But it was certainly a good first step.

AQ	Post #: 124

9/3/2009 23:33:55

Ronin Of Dreams
Still Watching...

Inwardly, Ronin sighed at the displays of pomp and circumstance surrounding the Crowning of a new Champion, yet outwardly he was smiling broadly as much as any fan of Enya's in the stands as the progression towards the dais began. There was no denying the sense of beauty and reverence of course, but in his heart he remained a simple man, and given what little he knew of Enya, he wondered if some of the effect was lost. The rainbow of colors being crushed underfoot as the petals dug into the sand was pleasant to the eye, but was it really that necessary? Even he had trouble figuring out all the trappings that he had ultimately agreed towards, yet the staff had insisted upon 'upholding traditions' that he certainly had been too bled white to recall...

With a sigh he pushed the thought aside and began to walk upon the trail of footprints left behind the procession as the priests fanned out to encircle the dais in prayer. Arcadius had apparently managed to figure out a manner of order in their direction, as the priests were aligned in front of their respective pillars without the undue chaos of shifting about. That boy was becoming far too shrewdly clever for his own good, in Ronin's mind, though still a far cry from the canny skills shown by Enya this day. He had also noticed her thoughtful nature as she had approached the dais, and wondered quite curiously what exactly had turned within her mind. Bowing respectfully to each of the various priesthoods, Ronin walked slowly around the raise dais as the spotlight of attention remained upon Enya, the crowd embracing her with praise and cheer. For as long as he dared, he tarried in this, wishing for her to be able to etch this within her mind and never forget the good tidings, rare as they may be.

As the priests trailed to silence with their chanting elations and prayers directed towards the Champion, Ronin finally climbed the dais to stand alongside Enya to address the crowd. "Patrons, friends, and fans, yet another year has shone brightly upon the sands of this Arena and upon a new Champion. Though many seek to lay claim to the title and its gifts, I award them to Enya of the Frozen Plateau with all the grace and honor that I may." He gestures again towards Enya, letting the renewed wave of accolades from the remaining crowd die down before he continued with a slight smirk on his features. "In the traditions of this contest, there are three rewards with which we shall present. The first is the crown of the Champion, which comes into being only when revealed, being different for each man and woman of every race that has ever managed to be victorious here."

With a light gesture, the elegant woman who followed the procession of priests raised the covered pillow towards Ronin, who pulled back the covering slowly so that the first to ever set eyes upon it would be Enya. As the velvet folds slipped away, the elemental pillars each shone with power, each lending essence of their element to the crown's creation. Falling away to flutter to the dais, the velvet revealed a 'crown' that was far more functionally simplistic than guady or grandoise, which brought a full smile to Ronin's face as it spoke towards Enya's true character as much as her displays in combat did. As if thrust from throcky crag of an active volcano, a perfectly smooth circlet of obsidian sat proudly upon velvet, light enough not to dimple the soft cushion. Glossy black flecked with veins of white, it was raw yet matched Enya's own self, the white so akin to the snow of the plateau she came from fluxuating with an inner light of the shade of crimson flames. The obsidian itself was uniform save for a sole snowflake that would sit upon the wearer's brow. The obsidian was not without other decor, however, for near the wearer's temples short ribbons would colorfully display her victory over the elements, four to a side.

Ronin spoke softly as the power of the pillars began to dim down to a duller vibrance than before. "This is your first reward, Enya. I cannot speak towards what it might do when placed upon your brow, but I can say that I am impressed at its form. The crown speaks highly of the nature of who you are within. It pleases me to present this crown to you." Taking the pillow from the elegant assistant, he held it out to Enya for her to claim and do with as she wished.

< Message edited by Kellehendros -- 2/15/2010 11:07:26 >

AQ	Post #: 125

Page: << < prev 1 2 3 4 [5]

All Forums >> [Gaming Community] >> [Role Playing] >> The Championships >> RE: =Elemental Championships 2008= Grand Finals

Page 5 of 5

Jump to:

Icon Legend

New Messages	No New Messages
Hot Topic w/ New Messages	Hot Topic w/o New Messages
Locked w/ New Messages	Locked w/o New Messages

Post New Thread

Reply to Message

Post New Poll

Submit Vote

Delete My Own Post

Delete My Own Thread

Rate Posts

Forum Content Copyright © 2018 Artix Entertainment, LLC.

"AdventureQuest", "DragonFable", "MechQuest", "EpicDuel", "BattleOn.com", "AdventureQuest Worlds", "Artix Entertainment"
and all game character names are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Artix Entertainment, LLC. All rights are reserved.
PRIVACY POLICY