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View Full Version : [BF] The Lion Woods - Leongarde VS Disgeran



E1Alpha
09-18-2012, 09:08 PM
The Lion Woods
Leongarde VS Disgeran

Post Limit: 10 per participant - - - - - - Time Limit: Saturday 13/10/2012
Maximum time in between posts: 48 hours

http://i48.tinypic.com/2d0faxf.png


Armies:
Leongarde
Commander: Arduin, the Vigorous Roar
Army: Swordsmen, Berserkers, Archers, Lionhearted

Disgeran
Commander: Cretoris, the Nightbringer
Army: Heretic Soldiers, Heretic Archers, Ascended Soldiers, Warlocks

Participants:
Leongarde
Corporal G'wain Pinderknock (The Imposter) (http://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=32533&page=3&p=1025195&viewfull=1#post1025195)
Disgeran
Verminathras (Jacogos) (http://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=32533&p=1021252&viewfull=1#post10212527)

GM:
E1Alpha

Posting Order
Determined by rolls from 1 to 100. Highest go first.
The Imposter (76)
|
Jacogos (3)
|
E1Alpha (GM)


Introductions:
Moving like rapid shadows, the Lionhearted under command of Arduin rushed from tree to tree, avoiding all detection as the trees were their home. The rustling of leaves and branches hardly alerted anyone.

Arduin himself was a bit behind, leading a small strike force of Leongarde’s regular warriors. While his brethren had entered the woods from Lionglade, Arduin had left from Leongarde’s capital and had planned to meet up with his clan in battle.
Slowly, but surely, the Leongardians neared the Disgeran camp, before laying low, at a safe distance, by using the cover of the woods. Arduin gazed upon the camp from a distance, glancing behind him at the men and women that joined him. He had explained earlier that he and the Lionhearted would make the first move and that the regular soldiers had to wait for his signal.

After one more affirming nod, Arduin left the group to set his plan in motion. The Leongardian soldiers felt their heart beating in their throat, but they knew to follow the Lionhearted’s plan to the letter.

Although only days had passed, the Lion Woods already looked to have been severely disgraced by their new invaders. Cretoris’ men were hunting down every last soul that remained in Lion Woods and was foolish enough to not join their cause. While that was going on, he ensured the building of an outpost. But this outpost was nothing more than a small, military camp. Supplies to construct a capable bastion were on route from Disgeran, but it would take some time before they arrived.
Because of this, Cretoris stepped down from his usual habits and has been guarding the camp for days without end, with periodic breaks of torturing unlucky soldiers and prisoners.

Yet another day like any other. The Lion Woods were quiet and peaceful… for now. He knew the hunting squads were moving out soon, and this thought was something the dark knight enjoyed greatly.
Disgeran warlocks soon continued with rituals to commence the desecration of the woods, which had already begun to spread from the former border between the two kingdoms.
There were hardly any patrols in the camp, aside from Cretoris himself. Most soldiers were helping the warlocks, hunting down stragglers and continuing to build the camp.

What Cretoris didn’t know, was that something was approaching. Something fast.


Battle Start

Without warning, it happened.
Arduin’s mighty roar emitted from the woods as the bestial warrior jumped out of hiding, simultaneously with his kin. The feline warriors roared out in unison as they revealed themselves, sending the hapless Disgeran workers running in fear and rallying the unprepared military forces.

“These lands do not welcome you. And we are its enforcers. Prepare to die, cretins!”

Arduin roared out once more, signaling the human troops that joined him to rush out of hiding to meet the Disgeran forces head-on.

Cretoris was not impressed and roared out himself, alerting all nearby Disgeran troops.
“To battle, fools!” Heretics, warlocks and demonic warriors alike engaged in battle.
Those who thought the last battle was the end of the Lion Woods, found themselves proven wrong now.

The Imposter
09-19-2012, 08:32 PM
The roar from Arduin spurred the berserkers, soldiers, and archers forward. The rushed toward the camp mixing and splitting into groups. Metal clanged against metal, people and beast hollered and screamed alike as they meet with the surprised Disgeran forces.

G'wain rushed forward with shield drawn with the other soldiers. Their orders being barked out by a commanding officer. The formation was simple: the soldiers advanced with shields drawn with the beserkers leaping out form behind them cutting down Disgeran rot. Their goal being the warlocks deeper amongst the Disgeran forces. The warlocks who had begun to decay and twist the wood. The place many of the soldiers knew well, a place as familiar as their own homes. It was common for the warriors to train in the woods, the Lionhearted above all.

Blades crashed against his shield causing him to react with a stabbing motion from his own sword. The other soldiers in line reacted in much the same way as the pressed forward. It was obvious to all that the warlocks were quite a threat against the raid. Stories recounted many times of the evil magic the Disgeran forces held. The contingent would need to slaughter them quickly to prevent any summonings. G'wain assumed that was the reason he was placed in this group, his advancement was talked about only briefly but the one who killed the Iron Mask inspired the troops to fight hard.

More of the Disgeran rot rushed upon the moving wall of shields, they had even started throwing themselves against the Leongarde soldiers in hopes to puncture the rolling defensive. Two bodies crashed hard against G'wain knocking him towards the ground. Quickly he pushed upward and swung is blade managing to decapitate one and cleave into the other. Other soldiers filled in the gap as their pursuit of the warlocks continued. G'wain now splashed with blood hurriedly ran to form back with the others. Soon the smell of warlock blood would fill the air.

Jacogos
09-19-2012, 09:55 PM
Verminathras had been quite busy with his own corruption of the Lion Woods. He had been one of those under Hierophind when the destruction of what was now known as the Blood Vale had started. The Avatar of Decay enjoyed this kind of work, slowly sapping all that was good out of an area and easily making it unusable by all those not of Disgeran. There was actually a small area that was already devoid of all life near the camp. At the center of this mass of death was where Verminathras spent most of his time, coming up with new ways to kill things, preferably slower than he had already come up with.

That was also where Verminathras was when a lion's roar shook the very air, making the avatar's eyes snap open, as he had otherwise seemed to be meditating beforehand.

"Arduin..." he muttered, rising. Almost immediately he was set upon by a Lionhearted, causing the plaguecaster to curse as he brought his staff up to hold the beasts's claws off. "Pah! Filthy mongrels! Go back to your caves and leave me to my business," the Disgeran hissed, slowly being pushed back by the beast-man.

"Defiler of Disgeran! You will pay for your crimes against this land!!" the bipedal lion roared, shoving Verminathras back. The avatar grunted as he felt himself launched almost completely off his feet, settling back down as an aura of sickly green began to surround him.

"Cute... Die now, animal," Verminathras said, a flash of red shooting from his staff's head. It caught the Lionhearted directly in the face, causing the warrior to howl in pain and clutch at the hit. The bolt was sending a large amount of pain to the lion-man's brain, though that would easily be gone in a moment. Verminathras didn't give him the chance though, for as soon as the Lionhearted recoiled from the bolt, the plaguecaster launched a bolt of decay for the man's chest.

The lionman, just recovering from the pain he had been experiencing, was hit full on by the blast, groaning as he felt his bosom tear open, his chest cavity revealed to the world. He attempted to roar in defiance, but his lungs collapsed in on themselves, other organs disappearing as the corruption ate away at them. Still pressing forward, the Lionhearted swiped Veminathras across the chest, tearing open a nice hole in his cloak and a bit of flesh off of his body.

"Persistent bastard, aren't you..." Verminathras muttered, striking out with his staff. The lionman collapsed heavily from the hardened wood hitting his temple, and, crumpling to the ground, soon succumbed to the rest of the decay eating away at him.

Grumbling, the plaguecaster became aware that the attack was not just here. The camp was under assault, Leongarde coming back with a vengeance.

"Dammit, our forces are not prepared for this!" Verminathras swore, moving back towards the center of camp. He found a warlock, seizing the man be the cloak and peering at him from under his tattered hood.

"We need something to gather our men back here. I don't care what, if you have to burn down the entire forest, do it! Whatever will get our strike forces back here to our side!" Pushing the man back towards the other warlocks, he went to work keeping stray Leongardians from rushing the magi. A single swordsman decided to be his first victim, and, chuckling, Verminathras shoved his staff into the man's stomach. Green aura enveloped the rod, and the avatar just shook his head as the man screamed his agony from his core melting away.

Cretoris... If you don't get our troops in line, we're lost! Verminathras roared to himself.

E1Alpha
09-20-2012, 08:03 PM
The Disgeran forces were vastly outmatched right now, and they knew it. Desperately trying to survive, the heretic soldiers did their best to fight off the furious Leongarde warriors. Their blades hardly affected the steel of the Leongardian shields, though, who continued plowing through the heretics.
The ascended warriors in the camp however were a whole other story, they took on multiple soldiers at once, ripping them apart as their true battle strength was unleashed upon the battlefield. Their roars spurred the heretics to fight harder.
The biggest problem, though, were the Lionhearted. The maned warriors sliced through the corrupted tides easily, even taking down some of the few ascended troops. They truly showed no mercy, letting their fury take the better of them as they cleaved through the Disgeran ranks.

Arduin was roaring out as he cleaved three warriors aside in one blow, before rushing forward again, gazing around the battlefield for someone, and finally finding him: Corporal G'wain.
Arduin leaped over to the man, cleaving aside an ascended warrior that was charging over at him. "Corporal! Go for the warlocks! My brothers and I shall cov-..."
Arduin was interrupted as a thundering noise echoed over the field, the skies darkening once more.
Those who had fought Disgeran before knew this was no simple thunderstorm. Arduin was one of those men, and as such, he prepared himself.

Cretoris, the Nightbringer, only felt truly in his element in the cover of the dark of night. His armor was surging with power and his fury was gushing through his veins. The darkened sky once more formed the image of a glowing skull in the air. The Nightbringer was ready to take on anyone. And anyone he did take on, as his sights were locked onto the most famous pair of the Leongardian assault: Arduin and G'wain.
"Two heroes of the pathetic Leongardian offensive. Your souls are mine!" Cretoris then charged forward mercilessly, raising his blade up along his side.

Arduin readied himself, bringing up his blades to prepare for the oncoming assault.

The warlock that Verminathras had spoken approached the avatar again. "Master Verminathras. It would appear that Lord Cretoris has already taken care of the summoning. I can sense our ascended troops returning to this location..."

The Imposter
09-21-2012, 02:31 AM
G'wain had gathered as much from his prior orders that the warlocks needed to be halted in order to secure the recapture of the Lion Woods. Now standing side by side with the fabled Arduin. In all the giant's years he had never had the privilege in gracing a battlefield with the legendary warrior. Above all this the Lionhearted general knew his name. The older couldn't help but smile although it was short lived, the thunderous darkness even silenced the beast man mid sentence. Despite the oncoming darkness the blue hue from the black armor that charged forward was clearly seen.

'...Cretoris.'

G'wain's voice was sharp and unshaken, a stark comparison to the warriors he stood amidst. Immediately the elder warrior became conflicted. He knew full well his orders, and the importance of them. However with the Nightbringer now charging undoubtedly with murderous intent in his eyes G'wain was caught up in the thoughts of testing his mettle against such a foe and to fight along side Arduin no less. Grunting G'wain knew full well his loyalty must lie in his duty and not in the excitement of fighting such a foe.

The enemy's blade was being lifted as the armored menace was preparing for his attack. G'wain could see Ardiun ready himself as well. G'wain shifted his weight to the balls of his feet, he was not spry by any means but he was sure he would be quicker than the armor burdened Disgeran. G'wain sprang to the opposite side of Cretoris' blade not even pausing for a moment before running further on ahead towards the warlocks. With any luck the maneuver may have provided his general with an opening.

Unwilling to sway in his commitment the brute pushed his way past a duo of hectic swordsmen. His skill with a shield and sword easily overwhelming the small group. G'wain's blade was now soaked with the blood of the rot as he approached ever closer to the warlocks. Taking a momentary glance behind him to see if Cretoris had perhaps chased him he readied himself in a strong defensive stance. His shield high and feet spread apart, knees bent and body low. The sight was a picture to the true discipline of the Leongarde troops defensive posture.

Jacogos
09-21-2012, 02:56 AM
Darkness had fallen on the battlefield, a thundering roar of power that signaled that the Nightbringer had brought his infamous magic to bare. Verminathras would have enjoyed the display if not for the words of the warlock behind him. Gritting his teeth slightly, the avatar turned to the man and regarded him with a rather empty gaze.

"Is that so...? Well then, I suppose those orders are for not. So be on your way and, if you would be so kind, DROP SOME FUCKING FIREBALLS ON THE MEN SLAUGHTERING US!!" Verminathras screeched, losing control for a moment. He regained that control quickly though, skewering another Leongardian who thought to catch him off guard. The man's entrails were warm against his hand, and his decaying energy fed the plaguecaster well.

"Sometimes, Cretoris, I don't know whether to curse you or praise you..." the avatar muttered, his green aura surrounding him again. Then, something struck him. Nothing physical, mind you, but rather an idea came to mind. Moving back to the warlocks, he pointed at two and beckoned them close.

"I want you to gather your magic together... Both of you, combine it. I know you bastards learned that trick! I'll be keeping these fools off of you. Once you have it all together, and I mean all of it, let me use it to ease the load off of our allies..." Verminathras didn't even wait for an answer. If they refused, they refused. If they did it, though, there would be a lot less Leongardians to worry about... In the meantime though...

Two more warriors came after the warlocks, apparently the Leongarde forces picking up on the dark magi's powers. Two bolts of red energy flashed forth from the plaguecaster, catching the men full in the chest and causing them to double over in pain, weapons clattering to the ground. Picking one of the swords up, Verminathras hamstringed both of them, causing the two to cry out in pain. Leaving them there, the plaguecaster almost was overwhelmed by another Lionhearted.

"Where does Leongarde even get you smelly pussycats from?" Verminathras spat, tumbling to the ground by the lion's sheer strength. This one simply roared at him, not even bothering with speech. As it charged his fallen form, though, the plaguecaster simply shoved his staff's butt end at the warrior, catching him right in the eye. Roaring in pain, the Lionhearted swiped at the avatar, disarming him as he caught the staff.

Growling, Verminathras was now forced to resort to his magic. Rising, the avatar reached out and grasped the man's head. Though the Lionhearted attempted to skewer him with his sword, Verminathras shrugged off the blow and continued to channel his decay magic through the beast's head. The warrior was dead in a matter of seconds, leaving Verminathras to pull the blade out and curse as he had to find his staff again.

E1Alpha
09-22-2012, 05:05 PM
Arduin was hoping G'wain would continue his objective, and as he brought his blades up to block the Nightbringer's sword, he wanted to make sure the Corporal continued on his duty. For that, he had to make sure Cretoris was not going to try and chase him. As soon as he skidded to a halt after being struck by the demonic sword, Arduin roared out as he charged at Cretoris once more, bringing his blades up to try and smash them into the unholy warrior.
Cretoris didn't even have time to see where the Leongardian he missed had gone, as the beast warrior was already on top of him. Roaring out, Cretoris raised his blade to parry the Lionhearted commander, answered him with a swift kick to the guts. Arduin roared in pain as he stumbed back from the kick, but didn't allow Cretoris a moment of rest as his blades locked with the Nightbringer's once more.

The two warlocks approached by Verminathras quickly obeyed his orders. Even though Verminathras had no real military ranking yet, he was well known amongst the warlocks of Disgeran thanks to his aid in the last battle.

While those two tended to their duties, one of the warlocks that had been raining death upon the Leongardians saw a suspicious movement heading towards them. The source of the movement carried a Leongardian crest. Turning to Verminathras almost instantly, he called out. "Lord Verminathras! We have inco-aaaah!" The warlock was skewered by a Lionhearted that had jumped in behind him, piercing his blade through the man, before slicing him in half, letting out a thundering roar as the warlocks now all turned to rain fire upon the beast, as it retreated into the woods again.

The Imposter
09-23-2012, 02:12 AM
The trees themselves seemed to extend their branches pointing G'wain towards the warlocks. Their twisted shape imaginably stretching out and unveiling the destination the thumping giant was sprinting towards. The silver wolf fur would have been glistening in the moonlight had not the ebony clouds unfurled over the battlefield. Despite its glory being masked it still enhanced the Leongardian corporal 's senses enough for him to see quite clearly in the dark. He could even make out the unpronounceable chants of the Disgeran rot. The distinct smell of the hellish magic that emanated from their demonic essence stung the nostrils like unnatural death.

Bursting from the woods G'wain realized he was now accompanied by three berserkers. Their needle like manes jingled a inspiring song to the corporal's ears as he charged ahead of them. The eyes of the champion locked onto the closest warlock who was just beginning to chant. Magefolk are always unpredictable...they seem to think with all their fancy hocus pocus that they have reached a plateau we warriors can never climb too....BAH! We'll just see about that

The giant hurdled forward closing the remained of the distance in the air. His knees slugged into the chest of the fragile mage and his momentum and weight brought the twig of a creature to the ground with a thud. 'SILENCE!' G'wain bellowed as his shield slammed with excessive force into the warlock's throat. An explosion of cracking and gurgling erupted from the Disgeran before another swift shield blow ended the rot's life. However G'wain being true to form was now relishing the new red stain on his shield and hadn't noticed the two other warlocks he had alerted with his display. In the twinkling of an eye the area around him was engulfed in hellfire. The giant hollered out in pain as the fires not only began to sear him but also burnt his spirit. He managed to arise and stumble away from the now flaming corpse but he could still feel the remnants of the blaze. His chainmail burned red hot for a moment even burning through the giant's clothes slightly, and the wolf fur now smelled of burnt fur and was charred black.

He breathed a slight sigh of relief as the beserkers now charged ahead of him towards the two that had assaulted him with their demon magics. G'wain took a step to join them when something caught his eye. A large staff to most lay ahead of him that caught the light from the burning warlock. A smile crept on the Leongardian's face as he lifted it and strapped it to his back along with Helmsplitter. Surely this belongs to a Disgeran diviner! What perfect bait to lure out a Disgeran robed rotter.

Pressing forward his enchanted keen eyes caught the most peculiar sight in his peripheral vision. A robed Disgeran carrying a blade, obviously searching for something. The creature was something awful to behold even in the dark. It's rotting and atrophied body was adorned with the most pitiful of cloaks. The garment hung tattered and loosely from the walking corpse, revealing even the most private areas of the body. G'wain was not more than thirty feet away and he yelled out.

'YOU! Vilest and shameless of all the Disgeran mages. Unnatural being of the most corrupt magic. How dare you walk with a Leongardian blade in your hand! What it your name O' rotted one?! Give it to me that I may tell of your death when I buy the ale for my fellow countrymen!'

Frothing at the mouth and with spit being flung from his lips with his call. G'wain readied his sword and shield and roared out to his fellow soldiers letting them know he had found the concentration of warlocks. The call seemed drowned out the sounds of battle that stung the cold night air. He doubted the archers were in any position let alone that they could see well enough to distinguish targets, but the roar was instead to rally the strike force to his position to wipe the warlocks out.

Jacogos
09-23-2012, 03:07 AM
Verminathras was quite annoyed by the fact that another man had claimed his staff before him. What was more annoying was that this man seemed to bear an uncanny resemblance with every other enemy he had killed that day. Which is to say, Verminathras was quite sure he'd forget this man's face within a few minutes.

While the Leongardian spouted a whole lot of nonsense at the Avatar, Verminathras slowly made his way forward, actually just now realizing that he still had the Lionhearted's sword still in hand. Regarding the man in front of him, Verminathras paused about a stone's throw away from him.

"Well aren't you the loudmouth... Give me back my staff and I'll be sure to make your death unusually quick for my tastes. Otherwise, I will proceed to tear you limb from limb," the plaguecaster said, loud enough for the man to hear him over the battle. However, Verminathras hardly gave him the chance to answer before the defiler began his attack.

Tossing the sword forward, he aimed the steel blade toward's the man's feet, not really caring if it connected or now. What he wished to use was his red bolts of pain on the man, so he could quickly secure his kill. Both hands glowed with the red aura that signified his attack, and there was only a moment's pause after the sword was thrown before the two bolts flew at G'wain, one towards his head and the other at his chest.

After that was done, the avatar began to exude his sickly green aura as he now backpedaled in order to widen the gap between himself and the warrior.

E1Alpha
09-23-2012, 08:03 PM
Arduin was already panting, but kept on vigorously fighting nonetheless, even though he was being forced into defending himself as Cretoris continued his relentless assault, bashing and smashing his blade onto the lion warrior repeatingly. "Prepare to die! Champion of Leongarde!"
This was exactly how Arduin had imagined the fight with Cretoris to go, and as such, he had prepared a measure to take care of the dark knight's reckless fighting style.
As the dark blade came down upon his crossed weapons once again, Arduin pushed his weapons outwards, shoving away the blade, causing the dark titan to flinch. Within the blink of an eye, Arduin roared out, before bringing his blades down upon the beast, the metal grinding over his armor as the souls of those trapped within were crying out for release.
Cretoris was stumbling back as a result, snarling, before once more continuing his assault, unaware he was playing right into Arduin's hand.

In the back, at the warlocks, some of the ascended footmen had rushed over to halt the berserkers rushing towards the dark casters. Their ferocity almost matched eachother, as they seemed to be more almost equally matched.
The warlocks, now safe from the berserker assault, continued flinging fireballs over at the berserkers. They had spotted the Leongardian Corporal challenge Verminathras and held themselves ready to intervene, but decided that perhaps Verminathras would rather take this prize for himself.
The two warlocks that Verminathras had called upon continued their chanting, having moved further back to remain undisturbed.

In the distant woods, commotion could be heard, as birds were leaving their nests in panic. Something was approaching.

The Imposter
09-24-2012, 10:48 PM
The sword fell short of its mark and hit the ground a few feet a head of G'wain. The weapon clunked against the hard ground with the blade itself not even piercing the earth. G'wain scoffed at the mage's pathetic attempt but such a reaction proved to be foolish as he raised his gaze back on the enemy. The two red orbs shone brightly in the manufactured darkness which may have been the very thing that saved G'wain from the both of them. His shield clashed against the first causing the magic to shift, and with a thrust G'wain sent it spiraling into the camp to his right. The second proved unavoidable now and caught the giant square in the chest. As it connected the red vanished seemingly sinking into the very being of the brute.

Face contorting and eyes wide, the corporal shook uncontrollably as the pain was absorbed and spread from his chest to the rest of his body. Even for all the wounds and scars his body had endured his tolerance was truly tested by the rot's magic. The giant dropped to one knee and his grip loosened on his blade momentarily before he coughed and began to laugh. The laughter was maniacal at best and bordered on insanity. Smashing his shield against the ground he arose his eyes becoming bloodshot as he willed his throbbing body to obey.


'AHAHAHAHA.......TRICKS?! CHEAP TRICKS?!! YOU!
You think tha...that will be enough to stop me?! Let a....lone stop Leongarde??'


G'wain once again was swallowed by his bloodlust. Outraged that the Disgeran had landed such a staggering blow. Their kind was far to unpredictable, and G'wain knew little to the type of magic this rot wielded. The giant's gaze seemingly narrowed on the mage and the green aura that began to creep from its body, however his eyes had caught something else....something far better. Past Verminathras in the woods to the west of the camp G'wain caught a Lionhearted who seemingly also saw him. The two of them coyly smiled for a moment the strategy being relayed through experience.

With a low growl G'wain shook himself trying to alleviate the still present pain although already lessened it was still unnerving. Holding his shield in front of him and his sword behind the giant began to rush towards the Disgeran. Doubting that his charge would be enough to keep the shameless creature moving towards the woods G'wain prepared himself to smash into the feeble looking husk and knocking it closer towards the trees for the Lionhearted's attack. However he knew little of what lay ahead when he hit that green aura. His duty far outweighed any doubts as he gained momentum in his charge.

Jacogos
09-25-2012, 12:18 AM
Verminathras was starting to get very tired of this grizzled man's bark. Though Verminathras relished in the man's pain, it wasn't enough for the plaguecaster to blow him off completely, and he knew it. Keeping focused on the warrior in front of him, Verminathras peered around for something to give him an edge.

The corporal began to charge him now, obviously intent on running him down, possibly just to upend him so he could finish the job while Verminathras was downed. The plaguecaster wouldn't allow himself to be so manhandled, though. Still backing up, the avatar slowly angled himself so that his back was towards the camp, the Leongardians before him so that any stray shots would go into the midst of the enemy. Meanwhile, he had caught sight of a few carrion birds, latching onto their minds with his own so that they might serve as his spies. This gave him a bird's-eye view of the area he and G'wain fought on. Why he hadn't made use of this before, he didn't know.

A green glow began to encircle his hands as the warrior closed on him. When G'wain was only a few yards away, Verminathras launched three balls of corruption at the man in rapid succession, the first aimed right at his shield, then one a little higher towards his head, then one at his legs. While not concentrated enough to remove limbs, they would rust away the shield quickly, as well as his armor. Skin would be removed quickly as well, but nothing beyond the site of impact would be affected, due to lack of concentration.

While that was happening, Verminathras reached out to one of the birds and commanded it to fly towards where Cretoris was. He needed to know how the General was faring for the moment, knowing that losing him would mean the loss of their foothold in the Lion Woods.

E1Alpha
09-25-2012, 03:15 PM
As the warlocks were desperately defending themselves against the berserkers, the two that were spoken to by Verminathras earlier became the unfortunate victims of a Lionhearted that had leaped all the way over to them, slicing them both up at once with a vigorous roar.

Cretoris and Arduin were still locked in combat, exchanging blow after blow with eachother. Although it was visible Arduin was beginning to get the upper hand, as his agility began to outmatch Cretoris' brute strength. The dark knight was losing ground as Arduin continued to attack faster and faster... Until a thundering roar and trembling earth pulled the entire battle to a halt. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vYV1x3CjwI8&feature=related)

Birds lifted from their nests in panic. Trees were trembling, the dirt on the ground was shaking as thudding noises could be heard approaching. More than half of the battlefield dropped quiet, as both Disgeran and Leongarde were inspired by awe.
Arduin halted his assault aswell, as Cretoris began to cackle.
"Leongardian fools! Did you really think you could take us unprepared?! We had been waiting for you... With your mighty Vanguard gone... Nobody will save you now! Come forth! Destroyer of worlds! Ezgorroth the Unrelenting!" Cretoris roared out, the skies darkening once more as a single thunderbolt revealed a dark silhouette approaching through the woods. Both Disgeran and Leongardian backed away, as the trees near the camp were crushed aside, and a mighty demon appeared in their place: A mighty infernal lord (http://images.wikia.com/monsterhunter/images/7/72/Demon-lord.jpg). The lumbering demonic beast roared out, raising his clawed fists above his head, before smashing them down into two Leongardian warriors that had been frozen in fear. Many warriors on both sides fled, but Cretoris stood before the demon, as Arduin was there to deal with them. The lion warrior felt fear creep into his heart, but still stood his ground, gazing up at the dark knight and the demon that was twice his size.

The Imposter
09-26-2012, 09:19 PM
G'wain's eyes widened as the new colored orbs shot forth from the atrophied hands of his enemy. Instinct overruled his thought to just take the attack with his shield and G'wain found himself leaping and rolling to his side. His heavy body thudded against the ground as he the first orb struck his shield. The effect was instant and G'wain quickly discarded the rusted item, his movement however allowed him to doge the other two decaying blasts. As he picked himself up he tried to yell out to those in the line of fire of the other two but a sickening roar drowned him out. A soldier managed to lower his shield only to see it rust away in a matter of moments while the other wasn't as fortunate. The green hued magic splashed against his face as he screamed in agony, the both of them however were quickly crushed as the demon emerged from the woods.

The demonic entity crushed trees and Leongardians alike as it pressed forward. G'wain cursed loudly unable to see if its contractor was even on the battlefield. The giant's mind raced as the demon made its way towards where Cretoris and Arduin were. His blood shot eyes strained as he tried to survey everything, trying to figure out some sort of strategy. As much as his bloodlust swooned for the life of the plaguecaster G'wain found it very quickly was becoming a petty squabble compared to the war that was being waged around them.

'Nice trick Mageling! You wield well the magic that becomes you. However it looks like there is now bigger prey to stalk. If you wish to give chase by all means but I swear on my honor I'll be back to take your head before this is over!'

Grinning wildly G'wain showed the twisted creature how a blade was thrown as he launched Felltree at him with great fervor. Using it as a means of distraction more than anything the brute began running away from the camp towards where he had left the general. His orders rang strong in many Leongardian ears:

'Soldiers! Form the Pride defensive! Beserkers! Hold the line with them and do not let the Ascended advance from the camp, whatever you do keep them in there. You five! You're with me.'

He looked once again to the woods where the Loinhearted from earlier and barked out another order.

'Signal the archers to rain down upon the camp, that is where they are concentrated!'

Turning back to the five that had amassed to him he spoke a little quieter. His voice a bit shaky from the running.

'We need to get back to Arduin and help him pull the Disgeran General and Demon into the camp before the archers rain down their terror.'

As the small group backtracked towards the looming silhouette of the demon G'wain could sense the fear that was rising in his fellow warriors. After all it was the same he felt himself, the swelling waves crashed against his ribcage. Had he been of the weaker sort he may have even turned tail and fled. There was however a deeper, stronger desire fueling him and the others forward: Loyalty. The one thing in Leongarde valued higher than currency. To leave the general in such a situation was cowardly at best and there were many who knew how much Leongarde hated cowards.

G'wain's bloodshot eyes settled on the hellish lord as he now readied himself by pulling out Helmsplitter. The corporal spoke once more before the six of them roared together to catch the attention of the three.

'Remember...we need to lure them back to the camp. If the price to reclaim these woods are our lives than it is a price we gladly pay!!! ARGH! FOR LEONGARDE!!!'

G'wain with axe ready moved with the group to wedge themselves between Arduin and his attackers.

Jacogos
09-26-2012, 10:20 PM
Verminathras was probably just as surprised as the others by the appearance of the demon lord, though he vaguely remember Cretoris mentioning an ace in the hole last time he and the General had 'talked'... Honestly, the plaguecaster had assumed the bastard was just being cocky and referring to himself. Odd.

"Well... That's convenient for you, Cretoris... Again... praise you, or hate you..." Verminathras muttered, returning his attention to the Leongarde giant only to get a glimpse of a blade being thrown at him. Verminathras barely had time to sidestep, a small chunk of his shoulder being taken off by the spiraling weapon. Shrugging off the blow, though, Verminathras watched as the man retreated, taking the mage's staff with him.

"That hairy bastard..." Verminathras continued to mutter, turning back to the group of warlocks, only to find the two he had previously spoken to in bloody bits on the ground. Swearing, Verminathras blindly launched an orb of corruption at the only thing he deemed responsible, a Lionhearted. Otherwise occupied, the beast never saw it coming and fell writhing to the ground as his innards poured out of a hole in his back.

Marching over to the remaining warlocks, the plaguecaster spat as he grasped one of the mages by the cowl, dragging the man off of his feet without warning.

"Since my last plan failed, you're about to become a martyr..." Verminathras hissed to the man as fear dawned for one of the first times on his face. Screaming, the very fiber of his being began to rip apart as Verminathras corrupted him, his life force becoming fuel for the spell Verminathras was about to perform. The sickly green aura of corruption exuded off of his body as he began to cast the spell.

For a few moments, nothing happened. Then, a faint buzzing began to fill the air as clouds of darkness rose from the forest. Winged insects of all shapes and sizes formed into a dark mass in the air, commanded by Verminathras. For a moment, the just formed together over the combating armies, but after Verminathras deemed them en masse enough, he commanded them to swarm.

Mostly focused on those closest to the warlocks, the insects descended on those Leongardian's still fighting, slipping under armor and helmets to sting, bite, and claw at the humans, nothing fatal, but enough to prove a distraction. This was all that was needed as any Disgeran would gladly take the opportunity to slip in for the kill. To those humans or Lionhearted that resisted the urge to itch and bat the insects, they could always go for the eyes.

Verminathras could only keep this up for about a minute after the swarm descended before he had to let go of the spell, nearly depleted of his own mana and obviously spending all of that warlock's life force. Hopefully that was long enough to gain the upper hand in the battle. Panting slightly, Verminathras now turned towards the demon lord and Cretoris, his raven eyes still keeping their focus on the two.

"Damned pussycats..." he cursed, making his way towards the battle.

E1Alpha
09-28-2012, 03:28 PM
Arduin snarled, holding his weapons at the ready as Cretoris and the demonic entity behind him merely stood there.
Without hesitation, Arduin charged forward, and as he expected, Cretoris rushed forward aswell. But as the dark knight charged towards the lionhearted, Arduin leaped up and over Cretoris' blade, placing his feet down upon Cretoris' shoulders and using him as a spring board, shoving Cretoris down into the dirt as he was now jumping up to the demon, who raised his flaming axe, and sought to cleave it down into Arduin. The Lionhearted however, turned himself in his jump, causing him to divert to the side slightly, allowing him to use his blades to grind along the demon's axe. Letting out a vigorous roar, Arduin landed on top of the demon, bringing his blades cleaving down into the beast, who roared out in pure rage.
Cretoris didn't stay downed for long as he pushed himself up, glaring up at the lionhearted.

Arduin could see G'wain approach as he roared out to him. "Corporal! Leave the demon to me! Destroy the Nightbringer once and for all!"

Cretoris ofcourse heard this and turned his attention to G'wain and his company, his heavy threads thudding onto the soil as the dark knight audibly chuckled.
"Destroy me? I cannot be destroyed. I am the Nightbringer. I am fear incarnate. If you truly think you can face off against the nightmare that is me, then so be it. Come at me, fool! Come face your nightmare! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JOTXyb7BxhQ)" As Cretoris called this out, his armor surged with nightmarish energy and the souls trapped within it were crying out as they were once more fueling his power. The dark sky responded to this aswell, the skull figure in the air screaming out in unison with Cretoris' roar.

Verminathras swarm was already taking down many of the troops, but they were also able to assault the Leongardian archers who were hiding in the forests, keeping G'wain's requested support at bay. The berserkers assaulting the warlocks also made the mistake of letting the locusts distract them, after which they were soon reduced to nothing but ashes by hellish flames.

The Imposter
09-30-2012, 03:55 PM
"Destroy me? I cannot be destroyed. I am the Nightbringer. I am fear incarnate. If you truly think you can face off against the nightmare that is me, then so be it. Come at me, fool! Come face your nightmare!"

Cretoris' words stuck deep into the brute's mind; their roots triggering aggression, rage, hate, and fear. Looking at the others it was plain to see they felt vary degrees of much of the same feelings. The swarm of insects had only added more fuel to the giant's rage as the had left as quickly as they arrived. His body throbbed and itched as several spots nagged to be dealt with. One of the five had succumbed to the twisted Disgeran magic as many of the bugs had crawled in through his mouth and nose choking and eating away at his insides. The body convulsed violently on the ground before finally stopping. The grotesque scene of the insects leaving the body caused another to puke but quickly regained his demeanor around the Disgeran general.

Then came the screaming, innumerable in number they wailed giving way to even more darkness. G'wain's enhanced hearing was overloaded trying to distinguish the number. He tried to stop his ears but the only relief came when they stopped. Shaking his head his vicious gaze locked on the armor clad titan before him. He took point stepping forward while the four others circled around Cretoris.

G'wain couldn't fool himself into thinking it any longer. His body ached, fatigue had gripped him and was slowly choking his vigor and fervor away. He took three deep breaths before the five of them launched their offensive. As Gwain charged forward with the general looking directly at him the corporal turned his blade away from the general and instead swung his axe with the blunt side in a large arc straight at the Disgeran's head. G'wain assumed the armor would prove to be extremely durable but with a enough strength behind a strike, it would send whatever creature was inside smashing against it. Any mind, even an immortal one, would collapse eventually after being battered enough.

The corporal assumed the other four would have the sense to follow in the same fashion trying to bludgeon the Nightbringer.

Jacogos
10-01-2012, 05:08 AM
Satisfied with the results of his spell, Verminathras realized that he was nearly spent as far as magic went, which meant whatever spells he cast now needed to be clean, precise, and most of all, just as deadly as before... That, or he needed to feed on more decay. With so many dying around him, he would hopefully be fine.

If not, Cretoris may just meet his match... the plaguecaster cursed in his thoughts as he approached the battle between Generals, demon lord, and the man from before.

Wonderful, so he's not just a nobody... That means this will be much more interesting... Verminathras thought as his body began to exude its usual green aura again.

G'wain had closed with Cretoris, while Arduin was battling atop and against Ezgorroth. That left those four following the Leongarde champion... Not wasting any time, Verminathras began picking his shots. Four carefully aimed orbs of corruption sought out the helping soldiers, each aimed for vital areas and enough to make the shot a kill without expending too much energy. Since he was being careful, he was also making sure that Cretoris was not behind any of the men when he launched the bolt, in case the magic missed.

Despite hitting the men or not, Verminathras now began to move forward with a murderous glint in his eyes as he picked out the Corporal as his next target. However, instead of orbs of decay, Verminathras was seeking to close in on the man at melee range, where simply gripping him with his hands would spell the warrior's doom.

E1Alpha
10-01-2012, 11:35 AM
Cretoris stared his charging opponent down, his power radiating off of him strongly, as he brought up his blade to meet G'wain's axe. As the weapons collided, Cretoris barely bunged as he quickly brought up a knee foot to try and kick G'wain in the guts to send him flying back. But before he could engage the corporal even more, He beset by other Leongardian warriors. As one tried to swing at Cretoris from the right, the hulking behemoth used his gauntlet to deflect the blade and jab his blade right through the man's chest, but on his other side, another warrior brought a mace slamming down on the Cretoris' head, sending the goliath stumbling forward.

The two other warriors were unable to attack however, as Verminathras' plague bolts connected with them and caused them to die an agonising death as they decomposed on the spot.
Cretoris was quick to recover from the attack however, slowly arching up again, leaving G'wain and only one Leongardian remaining as the dark knight turned to face them, his breathing growling and raspy.
Before Cretoris could make a move, he was ambushed by two lionhearted that leapt up behind him, smashing their blades into the warrior's back, causing him to stumble forward, before arching up to face the two bestial warriors. The beasts were forming a barrier with their own bodies between Cretoris and G'wain.

Arduin was still locked in battle against the demon, dancing around the fiendish horror with excellent agility, slicing at the monster's joints whenever he could. The demon roared out, chopping his axe to try and get rid of this pestering bug by squashing him.

The Imposter
10-01-2012, 10:25 PM
Despite all the brute's strength his swing seemed to do little when his weapon clashed with the general's. Fatigue had worn well on the older warrior and he had little time to move when the Disgeran's leg struck out, G'wain managed to turn so his left side caught the thunderous kick. The powerful blow struck true as it connected with his ribs, the sound of bones cracking as the impact was made caused the giant to wince. The force propelled him away and had not others attacked he was sure the next blow would have ended him.

G'wain suddenly found himself coughing and on his knees. Life's crimson substance leaked from the mouth of the brute onto the battlefield as he gasped and hacked. His fists clenched as he tried to control the new need to try to regain his breath. He was a warrior, fashioned in Leongarde, and in his mind he had many more battles to face, and legends to start. This battle could not be the end, not against Disgeran, not now. With a grunt the warrior slowly got up and brandished his axe once more. His eyes still blood shot seemed glazed over, his breathing slowed and he looked to the Leongardian warrior that stood by him.

'Make sure the archer's arrows are lit. Burn the rot's camp to the ground wiping out their main force. Be careful and do not FAIL!'

As the warrior left G'wain caught sight of the the plaguecaster. The half naked corpse had followed him. G'wain moved slowly positioning himself with his back to the lionhearted duo who were facing Cretoris. Keeping an eye on the green hands of the mage he turned partially and whispered to the lionhearted.

'Keep close and roar if they break through our defense, make sure we give ourselves enough time to dodge their assaults. The battle isn't lost, far from it. We shall reclaim these woods even if I need to shed every ounce of my own blood.'

The giant didn't move, instead he took the moment to rest. With each painful breath during the momentary calm G'wain for the first time felt his hubris shaken. His body ached, and the fear of destruction loomed with death itself overhead. The runes of his blade began to shine brightly, Cretoris wasn't the only warrior that could instill fear in his enemies. Attempting to bait the mage G'wain yelled once again.
'Twisted scourge! Do you still want your precious twig?! You'll have to pry it from my cold dead hands!'

Jacogos
10-02-2012, 09:47 PM
Verminathras spat when the Corporal turned to face him, the element of surprise lost. While it might still be viable to move in for a deathly touch, that axe could easily split him in two. Grimacing, the plaguecaster knew he was about spent. Only a few more deadly bolts left and he would be out of mana, leaving him useless... It looked grim for Disgeran, this day.

Pausing as the man began to speak to Verminathras again, the avatar took note of what his carrion spies were telling him. Arduin was busy with the demon lord, giving him a run for him money. Cretoris had two Lionhearted on him, which were keeping the champion from attacking this Corporal. As the two chosen of the Meregia stared each other down, Verminathras could only wonder if Cretoris could hold his own while he figured out how to deal with this giant man.

Tired of this farce, the Disgeran mage drew himself up to his full height, feeling old bones pop from the slow shift in stance. At this height, he was level with the Leongardian, which was saying something it seemed.

"You're rather insolent, aren't you, human...?" Verminathras hissed, peering at the man past his tattered hood. "You spout your words and shout your glory to the heavens, and yet you do not realize your folly. You will die this day, Leongardian. You will wither and die. Your corpse will make good feeding for the birds, if I allow your corpse to even exist after I am done with you. You wish to fight? Come, then. You shall experience pain like never before, worm..."

With that, Verminathras began to move slowly forward, his left hand glowing red while his right exuded that same sickly green aura.

E1Alpha
10-03-2012, 04:32 PM
The lionhearted warriors remained silent in response to G'wain, but they did acknowledge his words, preparing themselves for the inevitable.

Cretoris scoffed audibly, before he charged forward, his mighty blade swinging over to cleave aside the Lionhearted in a single swipe, souls crying out in agony as his blade was empowered by their sacrifice. The Lionhearted both crossed their weapons across eachother, using them as a barrier against the fiendish knight's claymore.
Right after that, Cretoris snarled and shifted his position to begin a relentless swiping assault, which the Lionhearted were doding and parrying at every oppertunity, yet they were still unable to deal a blow to the knight in return.

All of a sudden, a vigorous roar shattered the skies, coming forth from Arduin, who had just jumped onto the demon once more, and began viciously jabbing his dual blades into the beast's back, who became all the more enraged and wild by the attack, slashing about to slaughter both Disgeran and Leongardian.
Cretoris and the Lionhearted managed to just barely duck aside as the beast's fiery axe swung in between them, this interrupted the Lionhearted long enough to leave an opening, as Cretoris rushed in and pierced one of the feline warriors on his blade. "Die, you cretin!"

As all of this was occuring, flaming arrows lifted from the cover of the woods, landing in the camp as tents and soldiers were lit ablaze.
The battlefield had now truly turned into a smoldering arena of death.

The Imposter
10-04-2012, 10:01 PM
G'wain's breathing stabilized sliding into a slow rhythm. Breath, pause, deeper breath, pause, breath became the tempo his body moved to. As the war raged on around him G'wain was able to listen: the eternal wailing of those forever trapped in Cretoris' weapon, Arduin's roar as he sunk his blades into the demon, the demon's retort to the attack, the sizzling of the demon's axe as it crashed just feet behind him, and the whimper of the lionhearted that found himself impaled by the terrifying ebony claymore. His brow relaxed as his blood shot eyes found that the sky was soon lit by countless flaming arrows as they descended upon the Disgeran camp.

The tired warrior couldn't help but grin as his eyes quickly returned to the decayed mage approaching. The rot's words still hung in the air like a diseased smoke promising the corporal a most disgraceful death. G'wain's teeth clenched and he breathed out hard with spittle pushing itself from between his gaping maw into the hot air. He wasn't fooled seeing the two colours magically dance around the hands of the twisted caster as it seemingly grew bigger as it slowly lumbered towards him. The veteran was never a patient man, but he welcomed the slow approach this time. It gave him just a little more time of repose before he moved to attack. The time for words had finished now, someone amidst the small rumble would follow after the lionhearted, succumbing to death's inevitably knock.

G'wain feinted with his axe when the plaguecaster came into striking distance. The axe rising partially before G'wain twisted with the movement pulling himself with his swing to the left of the mage before bringing the axe cleaving downwards. The runic blade not aiming for the mage's body but instead was splitting the air towards his wrist. G'wain's motive obvious by the fierce expression on his face, his eyes intently waiting to see if his blade would amputate a hand from the mage.

Jacogos
10-05-2012, 12:04 AM
Everything was descending into chaos and Verminathras was loving it. Only those with a clear mind during the Hell that this battle was turning into would be able to stay alive. And seeing as Verminathras simply relished in the chaos, it was safe to assume his head was clear to stay focused on his rather brutish opponent.

However, fate always sought to transpire against him, as the Leongardians loosed a volley of fire arrows on the camp, one stray bolt landing near his feet. It might've caught his cloak on fire if the thing wasn't resistant to it, but the distraction allowed the giant to get close unmolested by the plaguecaster's magic.

The man began to swing, and Verminathras moved back to get outside of the range of the swing, but it was only a feint as the man moved to the side and swung for real this time. His sheer strength made the otherwise slow weapon pretty fast by comparison, and Verminathras had no idea what he was aiming for: his hand.

The axeblade split hand from arm cleanly, the stored up magic in his hand exploding in a flash of red. The magical essence seeping into him actually caused him to feel pain for the first time in two decades, a hiss escaping his lips as the feeling graced his being again. The flash would probably hit the man as well, though, so that might have been a plus... But the mage wasn't about to let that be the only retaliation.

With the man in close proximity, Verminathras disregarded the artificial pain and lunged for the man with his other hand, glowing green with the aura of decay. He was aiming for the man's chest, seeking to bury the hand in his chest cavity and end it outright. However, if the man managed to get out of melee range, Verminathras would simply fire an orb of corruption at the same spot.

E1Alpha
10-06-2012, 06:42 PM
The battle was raging on, with both factions spilling the last of their energies into this battle.
Cretoris continued battering the Lionhearted's weapons with his own, eventually shattering the feline's blades and cleaving him in half, the beast roaring out in horror as he was reduced to two halves with blood spraying out.
The dark knight relished momentarily in the bloodshed, before slowly rising up to full length again and turning to face the plague avatar and the Leongardian corporal. Cretoris raised his blade, preparing to deal the final blow to the man, until suddenly, a titanic roar shook the entire area.

Arduin was high up in the sky flipping backward, before he'd come crashing down. The demon lord roaring out to try and cleave the warrior out of the sky. But Arduin dodged the attack, but his blades dug their way into and through the demon's skull, slicing it open, before the feline warrior leapt back, causing the lumbering monster to topple over.
Almost instantly after he landed, he turned for the dark knight and charged at him, bringing his blades down upon him.
Cretoris managed to pull up his blade in the nick of time, parrying the twin swords of the Leongardian warrior.
Both warriors were almost completely spent, as their weapons seemed almost locked against eachother.

The Imposter
10-08-2012, 03:51 PM
The runic axe severed the Disgeran's hand cleanly off, releasing the pent up magic wave of pain. Nerve endings caught fire as they translated the red flash into something that G'wain's body could handle. He stumbled back and screamed, his face contorting and eyes closing as the searing wave washed over him. In the brief moment it took him to regain composure the rotting mage started his attack. As G'wain's eyes opened he saw the green hand move towards him aiming for his chest. That sickly green glow caused panic in the general who lifted his axe to meet the hand.

The hand clashed against the handle G'wain pushed forward hoping to escape the mage's grasp. Back stepping the Leongarde corporal watched as the decay crept along the axe's shaft and slowly weakened and ate away the substance. With little effort G'wain broke the handle tossing the none bladed end aside. His glare fixated on the plaguecaster conveying his now boiling rage. His bloodshot eyes bulged as he breathed heavily and frothed at the mouth before he hollered out:


'If you are so confident rot, then finish this!'


As the words erupted from his bowels infused with an unending hatred G'wain let what was left of the Helmsplitter fly towards his adversary. Slowly the old veteran continued to back pedal as he reached behind him and now readied the mage's own weapon in his hands. The gnarled end pointed straight as his opponent as he still continued to back pedal closer to Arduin and the Disgeran general.

Jacogos
10-08-2012, 06:46 PM
Verminathras growled in anger as his attack was avoided, almost seeming to aid the man by giving him a shorter handle on his massive weapon. Pulling back his glowing hand, Verminathras noticed with his carrion eyes that the demon was now fallen, that last roar of pain apparently his death cry. Swearing to himself, Verminathras completely ignored the giant in front of him as he decided his next, and final move.

Sure, there might be time left to act... But he was spent. There was nothing left for Verminathras to do but throw the rest of himself into this last attack. With any luck, it would be enough to turn the tide for Cretoris. If not... Then Lion Woods was lost.

"Finish this..." he muttered as the man pulled back his arm to hurl his weapon at the Disgeran mage. "Yes, we will finish this..." Time seemed to slow as the weapon left G'wain's hand. A raven floated just behind Cretoris, and Verminathras's familiar voice whispered into the Nightbringer's ear.

"My Lord Cretoris... this is my last effort. Use it to your advantage as best you can... Take them both!" it said, just before Verminathras acted.

Just as the axe hit the plaguecaster and seemed to cleave him in two, Verminathras's body burst into a small swarm of insects, splitting into two groups. One went for G'wain and the other for Arduin, aiming for the face and arms. The stinging swarm would only survive for about a minute before slowly dying off, but in that minute they would act as a most persistent distraction for Cretoris to take advantage of.

After the minute was up, though, the insects began to fall away one by one, the end of Verminathras's spell and, subsequently, his life. With any luck, it would be enough. Verminathras's ethereal self sighed as his soul returned to the Soul Orb.



Verminathras sacrifices himself for his last attack. I forgo a final post if it makes it to that point.

E1Alpha
10-08-2012, 08:36 PM
Cretoris roared out in unison with Arduin, both pressing all they had left into the attack.
All other armies were spent. Those who had not fled the burning hazard, were hiding, wounded or dead.
It was only four souls left in the midst of the camp, although the life of one of them was cut short by the hand of the Leongardian Corporal.

Verimathras' final assault proved succesful however, as the swarms of viscious insects bit down onto the flesh of both G'wain and Arduin.
But it was Arduin who was put in the worst position because of this. The insects caused his defense to fail as the grip on his weapons weakened and he sought to back away from the dark knight.
Cretoris took a step back himself, looking at the exhausted Lionhearted try and fight off the insects. With a simple scoff, Cretoris stepped forward, raising his blade up high as he called.
"Leongarde! Your champion lies at my feet! As shall your entire kingdom! Die, you wretched cur!"
With that Cretoris' blade came roaring down, cleaving Arduin clean in half.
The feline warrior was not even given a chance to scream in agony as his life was ended in that split second, his two remaining halves dropping down, blood pouring out.

Verminathras cackled slightly, his blood splattered with the feline warrior's blood, as the essence of the beast's strength was absorbed into his blade, slowly turning to G'wain now, his soulless blue eyes staring at the warrior as he slowly turned to face him, merely gazing at him with any lack of regre, fear or respect. He wanted to see the mighty warrior cower as the champion that was supposed to save them lay dead at the dark knight's feet.

The Imposter
10-08-2012, 09:24 PM
There are moments in war, when all is lost and retreat is the only logical solution. Better yet, there are moments in a battle when such a solution is taken away and a warrior only has two choices: to lock with death's gaze or to turn away from it in fear. As the insects of the plaguecaster's last trick bit, stung, and burrowed G'wain could see the end lionhearted general. The massive blade cleaving the Vigourous Roar into two halves, the blood spurting forth as the collapsed on the ground, and the screaming blade only further being fueled by the life essence of one of Leongarde's greatest. Fear gripped the giant's heart as the wovles fur intensified all the small insects touching his skin, their buzzing wings like an unending alarm bell. Fear like a hand squeezed tightly the pumping organ unraveling the next sequence of events in his mind.

The weapon in his hands fell to the ground with a sound the corporal always equated with hopelessness, but however he only laughed. At first it was low but it only grew and became more maniacal as his bug covered face stared the Nightbringer in his cold dead eyes. The brute had already become resolute, the Disgeran general would get no enjoyment from his death. G'wain charged with a mighty roar at the armor clad terror, a small wave of the Disgeran's magic bugs scattering at the sound. As he came into proximity he could feel the waves of fear radiating from the Disgeran general as the blade came towards him piercing into his chest, splitting bone and tissue like nothing. The corporal choked as the pain gripped him, the raised arms of the giant gripped the general's arm and pulled himself closer before reaching up to the armored head and gripping it. The intent was still there in the raging eyes of G'wain to grab the head and twist trying to break whatever was inside the armor, but the strength was not. The arms fell limp at his sides as he tried to breath. However his body couldn't even catch the air, the giant hung impaled on the blade as his head sunk forward and his eyes rolled up into his head. The last thing his eyes saw was the body of a small insect as it crawled across his cornea before buzzing away....


G'wain blinked as the fear inspired image seared itself into his mind. The gnarled staff of the rotting mage fell to the ground making a noise familiar to the giant. He looked down to see the remnants of his axe. The weapon became a symbol pushing itself through the paralyzing fear. The burst from the mage's transformation had put the weapon close to him. His fingers caressed what was left of the handle as he picked it up, the moment seemingly more surreal in light of all that had just transpired in his mind. G'wain pointed the still glowing blade at Cretoris and the last Leongarde soldier began to roar with all he had. The bellowing shout only helped to keep his resolve firm as he began to charge in the battle curtain call. In his final moments G'wain didn't reflect on his life, or regret what he didn't accomplish instead he cursed his luck. For only a soldier would you be hoping your enemy would strike with a thrusting pierce instead of a cleaving blow allowing him to get close enough to swing his mighty Helmsplitter in a bittersweet blow of revenge. As he stepped into the screaming swords range he resided himself to fate if he would be able to get close enough to strike the Nightbringer.

E1Alpha
10-08-2012, 10:37 PM
With the Leongardian warrior coming in for a final charge, Cretoris braced himself, arching his blade back in order to prepare to slice down the Leongardian warrior as soon as he came into range.

A subconscious voice reaches into G'wain head.


You shall not fight alone.
Your courage and bravery have been acknowledge.
Your sacrifice has been approved.
Your end has not yet come.

You now fight
With the Silver Lion
With Ko'Rhas

With this voice, the Meragaia of Leongarde himself, Ko'Rhas, radiates power from its soul orb, channeling it through the spirit realms in order to refuel G'wain's strength and stamina.
Forcing him to halt his charge as this power was revitalising him.

G'wain now stood eye to eye with his final challenge in this battle.
The clash of armies had ended, and now it came down to one final duel. The duel to determine the outcome of the battle for the Lion Woods.

Cretoris glared down at the warrior, before scoffing, bracing himself.
"Even your pathetic god will not save you. Prepare to die!"


http://i47.tinypic.com/29uub7s.png

<Special battle extension.>
<Duel between The Imposter and E1Alpha>
<Duel ends at GM decission>
<Theme song (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JOTXyb7BxhQ)>

The Imposter
10-09-2012, 12:34 AM
Muscles bulged and his nerves relaxed, all the pain vanished instantly as the strange yet comforting voice called out to him. G'wain's bloodshot eyes cleared, and his breathing became less erratic. The giant felt better than he had in a long time, stronger than he ever felt in his youth. The brute listened to the scoffing general still unsure of what exactly took place. Imbued with the power from the Silver Lion G'wain surveyed the scene anew.

The warrior realized instantly that despite his new strength his offense was lacking. The runes on his axe blade still glowed but with only a little less than half the handle it would be less than adequate against the new might of the Disgeran general. His eyes fixated on the two blades left by the lionhearted general, the laid on the ground soaked in their old owner's blood just inside the reach of the Nightbringer. In his periphal vision he could also see the plaguecaster's staff where he had dropped it earlier. His gaze settled on the large blade of the enemy, its wailing souls never ceasing.

G'wain wasn't an expert in the realm of magic, and he knew little of its secrets but he couldn't help but question. The enchanted runes on his weapon caused a fear to grip those it struck, and Cretoris weapon held within it countless souls. Would they be effected? The champion only knew of one way to find out his hypothesis and took the initiative. Slowly he circled his opponent and leaned in to pick up one of Arduin's blades.

Securing it in his right hand he held the axe in his left. He stepped forward readying himself for an attack. He pushed forward bellowing another ear splitting roar. Lunging in the last moment he prepared himself to strike his axe against Cretoris' blade and thrust the sword in between a chink in the armor plated terror.

E1Alpha
10-09-2012, 02:33 PM
Cretoris' eyes were locked onto his foe, his blade gripped firmly in his hand. When G'wain began moving around Cretoris, the dark knight stepped forward to mimic this movement, basically walking in a circle with G'wain as they would end up switching places.
As G'wain reached down to grasp the Lionhearted's blade, the dark knight moved himself from his static position into an offensive stance, holding his blade with both hands as he slightly bent through his knees, his breathing echoing inside his helmet.
This foe was but a mere man. Cretoris would not fail.

When G'wain finally charged towards him, Cretoris brought his claymore swinging up to clash with the man's axe, souls crying out for release in response to the axe's runes. Their twisted, spectral images could be seen bursting from the collision point of the two weapons. But as G'wain brought up the blade, he would once more find the souls of his victims shielding the black knight, crying out as the blade was forced to grind along the man's armor.

With G'wain this close, Cretoris decided to take advantage, letting go of his blade with his left hand, arching it back, before seeking to smash the plated fist into G'wain's guts, seeking to pound him away. Should this attack have been succesful, Cretoris would have followed up by rushing up to G'wain and smashing his shoulderplate into the man, aiming for the general area of his upper body.

The Imposter
10-11-2012, 12:48 AM
The plated fist smashed against chainmail shattering some of the links on impact, unable to properly absorb the unearthly might. G'wain's eyes had seen the reeling left fist and flexed to help cushion the blow, the rejuvenated muscles tightened taking on what the chainmail couldn't. Recoiling back G'wain realized the endowed strength he was given was doing its job well. Bone and organ had been spared momentarily but the sore pulsing of a newly forming bruise was apparent.

G'wain had been stumbling back when the Nightbringer continued by dropping his shoulder to smash into the giant's chest. The armor plated behemoth rushed forward but G'wain had expected such an relentless attack. His right hand dropped the blade and reached out as the Disgeran general crashed into the corporal. Breathing with the impact to lessen the rushing wave of pain G'wain attempted to grab hold of Cretoris and use it to pull him to the ground with the momentum of his own attack. Grunting the brutish soldier kept his right hand out to feel if the general had come crashing to the ground. If he had G'wain would roll hoping to gain the upper hand and land in a mounted position to strike the claymore wielding terror. If not he would simply roll away and back to his feet in a defensive stance.

E1Alpha
10-11-2012, 03:04 PM
With his own brutal strength being turned against him, Cretoris is shoved down into the ground, grunting out as he smashes into the soil. As he felt his attack connect with the Leongardian, he wasn't expecting a counter attack. Roaring out in frustration, he moved his hands, forming them into fists as he pounded them onto the soil, having dropped his mighty weapon as he was shoved down. This fact didn't seem to slow Cretoris down at all.

As G'wain rolled, Cretoris tried to shove himself aside and thus dodge G'wain, his threads making threads in the scorched soil beneath him, before slowly pushing himself up, his breathing loud and heavy, though it was more from anger than exhaustion.
"So... You want to play rough, mortal? You think you can keep up with me? YOU THINK YOU CAN FACE ME?!"
Cretoris grunted and groaned, flexing his arms, before bringing them together as a furious storm of souls raged closely around him as a tornado. A storm filled with fear, rage, despair, ... the feelings of all those who had fallen to the Nightbringer's blade. He was preparing something, that much was obvious.
The skull in the sky let out a silent scream, as if it was feeding Cretoris with the souls. The dark knight's blade that laid on the ground a fair distance from him was trembling fiercely, as if the souls trapped within were calling out.

The Imposter
10-11-2012, 11:26 PM
Normally at such outbursts from an enemy the giant Leongardian would retort in kind however he kept silent. Perhaps it was the extremely close brush with death that silenced him, or the Silver Lion's power flowing through his veins. The reason didn't mean much but G'wain certainly relished the frustration and anger booming from the plated clad general. There weren't many that G'wain knew that could control their rage like he could and soon he would see just how well the Disgeran could do under such rage. If he was any luckier he would soon catch a mistake, and when the corporal did he would exploit it for all it was worth.

Then G'wain heard it, amidst the screams the pulling and twisting of wind....or was it wind. His eyes narrowed in the ill illuminated battlefield, seeing the the burning remains of the camp were a lit behind him now. The enchanted fur gave him the clarification as he saw the souls being violently whipped around the enemy, screeching as they were further plunged into despair. G'wain's gaze continued and spotted the trembling blade, closer to him now then the Nightbringer. A ploy? A trap, or the folly I've been waiting for? Before acting he quickly continued to survey the other weapons about the field: Arduin's blades lay separated now and behind the Rot was the plaguecaster's gnarled staff. His eyes settled back on the claymore, the gigantic sword shook as the souls beat against it.

The brute dashed towards the claymore and slid beside the vibrating blade. Knowing he couldn't sling his axe forced it into the blood soaked earth with the only a third of the blade in the ground and the rest facing up. Perhaps it may still come into use. G'wain also was quite sure despite he recently endowed strength he wouldn't be able to wield the weapon like its master so reached with both hands. He quietly whispered to the blade as he attempted to pick it up hold the blade downwards with the flat of it facing the general, ready to defend against the attack.


'Souls give me your aid to slay the one you imprisoned you!'

E1Alpha
10-12-2012, 05:22 AM
Cretoris maintained his stance, as the furious tempest of souls continued to rage around him, his power seeming to increase with every passing second. Slowly but surely he could be seen bending through his knees, before the dark knight began to move. He charged forward ruthlessly, with amazing speed as the power of those souls seemed to propel him and increase his strength even more. He was rushing towards G'wain in an attempt to run him over by pounding a fist into the man's chest to knock his down, before he'd smash his plated boots onto the man's body to try and shatter the bones within his body.

The blade G'wain picked up provided some resistance, as the souls within sought to lash out at the man, being under the illusion he was the one that imprisoned them again. The blade was incredibly heavy, but not impossible to wield for G'wain if he used his two hands. At G'wain's request, the spirits in the blade seemed to try and focus their energy elsewhere, infusing their power into the blade once more to increase the weapon's strength.

The Imposter
10-13-2012, 06:53 PM
Cretoris' fist slammed against the his own weapon pushing G'wain back. The sound of the trapped souls mixed with the twang of the metals clashing against each other. Discomfort settled in heavily in the should G'wain had brace the claymore against to shield himself from the oncoming assault. Not wanting to prolong the battle much longer G'wain pushed with his shoulder helping him raise the giant blade up from its defensive place. His body twisted to face the Disgeran had on, swinging the massive sword over his head and bringing it down in one large cleave from right to left.

Sweat ran down G'wain's face anew, wielding the Nightbringer's blade was much heavier than the Helmsplitter. His whole body felt the effects after just one swing even having been healed by the Silver Lion. But the corporal would not lose hope, not now. His enemy had to be destroyed, for Leongarde and the souls he had trapped for countless years. The old warrior grunted and shook the creeping fatigue away.

E1Alpha
10-13-2012, 10:21 PM
Cretoris felt his own blade smash into him, causing a symphony of screaming souls to burst free from the Nightbringer's armor, aswell as the blade. The blade however had not even gotten through the armor in the slightest, but the blade's impact, aswell as the power of the souls trapped within created a blast that would blast both warriors away from eachother.
Cretoris' boots skidded over the scorched soil, grunting as he came to a halt, still standing.

"You betray me, slaves?! I shall cast your souls into oblivion along with this fool after I ripped his heart from his chest!"

Cretoris roared out, spreading his arms as a dark energy emerged from his hands, gripping Arduin's blades and dragging them into his own hands, gripping the blades firmly, before dark energies surged around the blades, turning them into two vile weapons for Cretoris to use.
The dark knight didn't even take a moment of pause, before he charged forward, roaring out as he sought to slice G'wain apart with a cross-shaped slash. Wether the attack had struck or not, Cretoris would begin a furious assault by continiously lashing out with the twin blades at G'wain, having lost all restraint as he fought on, having no other goal in mind but to see the Leongardian's guts spilled on the sand.

The Imposter
10-14-2012, 01:06 AM
As the two titans clashed the force of the souls long lost but never given rest erupted in a torrent knocking them both back. G'wain was knocked off his feet but was able to land safely only dropping to one knee several feet away. Bracing himself against the claymore now stabbed into the ground ahead of him he pushed himself up. His gaze witnessing the desecration of his general's weapons. As he stood he felt the change, the loathing hatred, it wasn't his own. The emotion seemed to eat itself from the inside of his soul out. It was the emotion expressed by the innumerable spirits slain by the Nightbringer. It bubbled up inside him, and burned his throat, physically manifesting as bile coaxed its way to his mouth. His eyes flooded in anger becoming bloodshot once again, his face flushed red almost matching the crimson around him.

The veteran's whole body shook violently as his knuckles bleached white as his grip tightened on the claymore. Uncontrollably he smirked and spat out the vile tasting substance in his mouth, this new rage was intoxicating. The most euphoric bliss that ever engulf the giant warrior, the intense emotion was too much, unable to be quenched in the Leongarde's soul. Madness followed throwing the warrior into a blind rage, droplets of blood exuded from his pores replacing the sweat. The rage, and screams of the countless souls having been freed now possessed the man. Their vengeance to be executed through the berserk tool now at their disposal.

Still smiling insanely as Cretoris called out to the spirits that were released, G'wain heard the words as if he was underwater. Muffled by the cloud of animosity that now had a death grip on his mind. A berserking madness unlike any other truly set the corporal in his element. Ready to react to the charging enemy, he lifted and pointed the blade as the rushing Disgeran. The cross-shaped slash rang loud against the mighty claymore causing the guard to be forced up. True enmity prevailed as the warrior was able to bring the blade back down to block another attack, then another, however soon the assault proved to be too fast.

A blade swept close only partially deflected by the claymore cutting through chainmail and along a rib. Another came high flaying the skin from the jawbone of the brutish warrior. His own blade cleaved upward in a failed attempt to disarm or block as the twin swords hit true once again: One shallowly against a thigh while the other in the shoulder. The hefty sword fell as G'wain released it in an instant, seeing that against the plated terror it proved to do little.

Eyes bulging wide and malice fueling him on G'wain reach out to grab hold of the general's helm, his thumbs aiming to push through those blazing blue eyes. His murderous rage focused on throwing off the helm and then crushing the skull beneath. Arduin's blades struck once again most certainly hitting fatal areas as the protruded from G'wain's back. The warrior continued unfazed most certainly lost to the madness that devoured him. His mind muddled by the eternal grudge by the possessing spirits he could hear a sound.


th-thump, th-thump, th-thump, th-

E1Alpha
10-14-2012, 01:46 AM
Cretoris had no attention for the warrior's enraged state. His demise was the only thing he could care about at this time. As he felt the blades he had just desecrated grind against his own weapon, the weapons once more produced the screeching noises of trapped souls crying out for release.
This was something that fueled Cretoris however: The sound of pain and despair. He loved it with every fiber in his blackened heart.
With every clash of the weapons, the cries of the souls grew more desperate and angered.

But it was the feeling of the blades cutting something else than metal that gave the satisfaction Cretoris was addicted to. He could see the droplets of blood resting on his new blades, a sight that invigorated him.
The man was forced to drop the dark weapon, and as soon as that happened, Cretoris crossed the twin blades before him once again, in an attempt to slam them into the warrior to create distance between them.
However, the man's hands suddenly came up, reaching for Cretoris's head. He had no intention to wait and find out what this guy's intentions were, so instead of pushing with the blades, Cretoris rapidly sought to dig the twin swords deep into G'wain's shoulder to sever all strength in his arms.
Should this prove to fail, then G'wain's thumbs would dig their way into Cretoris' eyes sockets, crushing their way into cold flesh, robbing the Nightbringer of his sight.

But had the Nightbringer's plan worked, then he would follow up his attack with a swift kick into G'wain's chest to shove him further away, before reaching his own blade.

The Imposter
10-15-2012, 10:57 PM
-thump, th-thump, th-thump...


The vassal of eternal animosity felt the blades being pulled from their momentary resting place in his flesh, the wounds praising the attack by offering claret in a outpouring flood. Despite feeling it however the puppet did little in way of reaction already fully committed to the attack. The berserk warrior ducked on instinct as the blades came again at him this time for his shoulders. Unwilling to lose their only means of revenge against the Nightbringer. Arduin's two blades sliced only through the air past the Leongarde warrior as his thumbs pushed into the Disgeran's eyes.

Had G'wain retained any sanity he might have rejoiced as his digits pushed into the icy cold flesh of the general. Delighting to know that his enemy in fact had flesh, that however wasn't the case. The madness brought on by the everlasting hate controlled the warrior like a child with a toy, moving him away so that they could relish the damage caused to the general. The husk of G'wain slowly lumbered toward his axe in the ground, plucking it from its slumber softly. A small trail of the crimson river that seeped from his wounds faded into the red soil around him. The spirits knew the body may not last much longer, despite their hold on the brute he was wounded greatly. The malevolent spirits would not be satiated by something as trivial as blindness, the beckoned the corporal to continue the assault.

Quietly the giant moved towards the source of an everlasting bane, his axe raised poised to strike. Still driven by insanity the frothing Leongardian circled Cretoris partially before moving in and swinging down with ferocity between the rot's head and plate with hopes of severing head from body.

E1Alpha
10-16-2012, 05:12 AM
The Nightbringer roared out, no longer being able to see as an almost completely blackened substance seeped from his eyes. "You think taking my eyes will save you?! You are forgetting one thing... I am the lord and master of this battlefield! And the spirits that fuel you are mine!"
With nothing but blackness before his eyes, Cretoris rose his hands up again, as another tempest of souls raged around his body now, but instead of using it to power an attack now, he drew his mighty blade towards him, having it float before him as it was used as a vacuum of souls, drawing in any souls around him.
The souls of the dead men, both Disgeran and Leongarde, were drawn forth from the sky and earth, siphoned into the blade, and the souls that were fueling G'wain's anger were forcefully pulled out of him aswell. The sky was yet again screaming in silence. With this move, Cretoris was trying to use the souls that had taken control of G'wain to rip the man apart from the inside out, rending at the very fabric of his existance.

"You are a fool for dabbing into a power you cannot control! While it is true my blade is one of the few weapons that can damage you, you do not have the will or the power to control it! You are weak! And now, you will pay the price!"

After drawing in these souls for awhile, Cretoris prepared to unleash his most powerful attack, roaring out, as his voice rushed over the entire battlefield. The souls he had just been siphoned in, were now forced out in a viscious soulstorm around him, a whirling essence of dark magic, tearing at both dead and living around Cretoris.

The Imposter
10-18-2012, 12:18 AM
The maniac was mid swing when the possessors of his soul were ripped from him. The severance from the eternal madness caused the giant to stop, now for the first time feeling the full effects of the two gaping wounds in his chest. His breath was sucked away and he choked on blood as it bubbled up from his bowels. His scowling mug twisted into fear as the sounds of the many souls about him being sucked into the blade embedded deeps in his bones.

G'wain screamed but the sound was drowned out by the wailing spirits being devoured into the final attack. His mind fought viciously with his body demanding it to finish its swing, to sever the head of the enemy. Truthfully it was only in desperation, that moment when a prey lashes out one last time against the hunter, unable to cope with the harsh truth. The warrior's end was nigh, all his hate, madness, and pride shriveled at that feeling of dread.

There was no revelation, no regret, no moment of acceptance of his fate for G'wain. Cretoris unleashed the absorbed souls out onto the field. G'wain felt the pain only briefly as his body was swallowed up in the storm. Chainmail nor flesh gave any resistance as the souls tore through his body reducing him to nothingness on the battle field.

The next thing G'wain realized is the torment, it ate away at him. His body? No his spirit perhaps. The pain was truly unbearable, he gnashed his teeth and wailed out as it continued. Then in the blackness he heard it, another wail. One that wasn't his, then another, and another. Soon he was surrounded by them, a most disgusting symphony of anguish and despair. Had the spirit been given a moments repose from the agony G'wain may have been able to realize his fate was one worse than death. For now he joined the innumerable choir of the Nightbringer's blade....

E1Alpha
10-23-2012, 11:27 AM
http://i50.tinypic.com/28lfivm.png