Round 1- RedKayne VS. Beta - [Judge: TheBat]

[.Karma.]

http://i.imgur.com/JhDGITm.png

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http://i.imgur.com/nD12eqd.png
This drawing is not done to scale. XD
If you have any questions about the arena please feel free to PM me.
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The room is pitch black, you can't even see your hands in front of your face. That is until a loud rumble and hissing sound resonates throughout the room, as if a machine is starting up. Suddenly bright LED lights switch on illuminating their surroundings. The room looks like one you may see in a factory, about a college basketball court in size (94 feet long and 50 feet wide). The bright lights flicker and spark, every now and then, raining down little embers onto the floor below.

Well not a floor exactly.

Suddenly the floor begins to move, slowly at first. You only have to walk at a normal speed to keep it from taking you to its destination. At the end of the conveyor belt that covers the whole floor leads to walls that open like an elevator revealing a giant incinerator. The heat can be felt radiating throughout the room steadily becoming warmer as time ticks on. In the flames you can hear the groans and cries of warriors who have fallen in this arena before, calling for you to join them in their eternal demise. Hands reach out to grasp and pull you into their inferno should you get close enough.

On one wall exactly half way in between the fighters are three buttons. They look exactly the same and are not labeled. Each one does something different.

One button releases steam through the vents that line the room near the ceiling, hindering both fighters vision for one turn. Another releases gusts of air through the vents hard enough to knock both fighters a bit off balance for one turn. Yet another just rains beautiful colored confetti down on the fighters below for one turn. Which button is which is anyone's guess.

Across the room on the floor is a lever, the only label it has is "belt". This hints that it does something to the conveyor belt floor, but you have no idea what. Again, as for now the belt is moving at a speed that one could walk at a normal pace and keep up with it. There is no way to get out of the room until the battle ends.

Each player can only hit one button every turn, or they can pull the lever. The lever only works once and the effects only last one turn before it goes back to it's original position. The effects of the buttons/lever do not take place until the next turn, so when they originally push the button or pull the lever it will seem as if nothing is happening or that they are broken.

Not long after the lights come on music starts to play (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e8-sMJZTYf0), the beat echoing through the vents above.

Whoever starts the battle begins closer to the incinerator (See beautiful picture above).

With a flip of a coin... Beta will start the battle!

(You have 4 posts per person and 48 hours to respond between each post.)

BEGIN!

[Salroka]

Note to Judge/Judges: Sorry for rehashing over what was stated in the opening post, but as an initial post for a character who had no idea what was going on, I felt it only proper to do so. My posts from here on out will not be doing that sort of thing.

"By the Dragons, where am I?" thought Lars as his eyes slowly opened. Darkness. Darkness all around him. Was he in the Underworld? No... if he was, he wouldn't be feeling the cold floor beneath him. Odd. He ran his hands up and down his body. Ok. He hadn't been robbed. Hand-Axe? Check. Bow? Check. Arrows? Check. Knife? Check. Armor? Check. Knick-Knacks and Gear? Check. Lucky Rock? Double Check.

Seconds after he finished checking his gear, Lars heard and felt a low rumbling nearby which was followed by something that reminded him of the geysers near his home. It was then that his eyes burned momentarily as a result of the sudden change in lighting. What sort of sorcery was this that someone could light the room without flames? Was one of the Anathema the cause of this? If they were, Lars was in trouble.

Lars could see there was metal everywhere around him, almost like the stories he'd been told about the Imperial Jade Refineries. Was THAT where he was? That seemed likely, as there was someone in very fine armor standing not far from him. He'd likely have only one chance to explain why he was in such a restricted area. Surely if he told the truth, then the would merely be fined and set free. The Dragon-Blooded were strict and firm, but not without reason. "Your forgiveness, Master Dynast. I think there has been a misund-"

Was the floor... starting to move? That wasn't normal. Wait... and it was moving toward a... yeah, that was a rather large incinerator. Well, he was now convinced he was not only in the Jade Refinery, but also in the absolute worst part of it that a mortal could possibly be. "Dragons, spare me! Of all the Anathema-tainted garbage in the world. what have I gotten myself into this time?" thought the young man as he kept pace with the floor that moved beneath him.

"Please forgive me for being so forward, but I think we sh-" Was that someone speaking? 'Let the bodies hit the floor, let the bodies hit the floor, let the bodies hit the floor, let the bodies hit the...' And then it was like someone had opened up the gates of Malfeas itself. Things suddenly clicked. The dangerous setting, the unknown knight-like individual, the blaring... music? He was sent here to be this being's next victim, most likely. "No. I will not just be another body. I will not bow my head in defeat. I may die, but by the Dragons I won't be alone."

Drawing his bow and nocking an arrow, Lars continued to keep pace with the floor beneath him. He would not be caught off-guard and he would not just be some maniac's plaything.

[RedKayne]

The Tempest Begins (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=is0c_Q9hJrY)

Darkness. Pure darkness.

The Tempest Knight found no comfort in the abyssal darkness. Ever joining the Templar Order, Malstrom continuously battles the forces of darkness, and participates in the endless war between good and evil. Malstrom personally witnessed a powerful darkness consuming the hearts of dear friends, and that same darkness nearly killed the Captain only a couple short years ago. It would be best not to dwell upon that night, as it would only stir unwanted thoughts.

Instead, Captain Malstrom will only focus upon this legendary gladiator-like tournament. At this point, the Templar Order may consider the Captain a fugitive – due to Malstrom unexpectedly abandoning the duties of a sworn Templar. However, Malstrom had very clear personal goals and objectives which were related to this tournament, and that took more priority than even being a member of the prestigious organization.

The lights flashed on, which caused the gray eyes beneath the helmet to blink rapidly. The eyes managed to focus, and Malstrom's vision cleared and took upon the sight of the environment. The white-colored material of the Tempest Knight's exquisite armor brightly reflected the LED lights shining upon the warrior, almost emphasizing the Templar's appearance as a shining beacon. The gray eyes glanced left-and-right quickly, before narrowing upon the opponent at the other side of the closed room.

The black ground beneath the two combatants began to move – specifically towards an opening in a wall, which revealed licking flames from a giant incinerator. For a brief second, Malstrom could overhear the anguish groans of those eternally damned in that incinerator, before extremely loud music began playing. The powerful beats echoed across the room, the song's vocals practically grating against the Malstrom's ears. This song wasn't exactly pleasant, and may prove distracting to the Captain.

The opponent stood closer to the incinerator, and the moving platform did not help his situation. The individual himself appeared very perplexed, and the loud music commenced before Malstrom had the opportunity to acknowledge the opponent's words. The human male was adorned with green outsdoorman type clothing, and he carried a lean body built. Slightly messy dark-brown hair fell upon his shoulders, and Malstrom immediately assumed that this individual is a ranger-class combatant.

The Captain encountered similar individuals before in multiple journeys, and they always intrigued the knight. These type of people lived rather peaceful and quiet lives, and deep within the isolation of nature's finest forests. Their own lifestyles were completely different compared to the Knights of the Most Holy Order. Templars were commonly overzealous warriors with sole intentions of eradicating evil – no matter the origins or cause.

Interesting, Malstrom's internally commented upon the opponent, as the knight's gray eyes observed the human male drawing a bow – and already setting up an arrow. The ranger appeared slightly scared, but then threatened that he will not die alone. Apparently, the man was not too confident with his own fighting capabilities, if he already determined his own death. Clearly, he didn't understand the mindset of the Tempest Knight. Malstrom was not a bloodthirsty warrior, and will not kill the man unless absolutely necessary. Malstrom only needs to defeat this man in combat, and hopefully both of them can leave the fight alive.

And so… it begins. Malstrom's thoughts were then briefly clouded of a familiar dark figure, one with eyes of blue fire. And exactly two years ago… the Cold Emperor participated in this tournament... I shall succeed where he failed.

The tall knight crouched down, moving a free right hand to the surface of the conveyor belt. The metallic white-fingers of Malstrom's gauntlet grazed against the moving ground. A bright yellow light flashed upon the hand, before it quickly dissipated to reveal a small, crackling orb of electricity – a Tempest Orb. Normally, the Tempest Orbs are completely stationary in movement, but now that it stuck with the conveyor belt, it was moving along with it. The orb of electricity crackled at the center of the moving platform, moving gradually towards the incinerator and the ranger's direction.

I wonder why you are in this tournament, ranger? Why do you fight? Malstrom internally questioned - it was a part of the knight's inquisitive nature to analyze the opponent and determine their reason to fight. Was it a strong compelling reason? Was it to prove himself by battling strong enemies? Or was it simply a fight for survival?

The Captain then noticed a few devices within the large room. There were exactly three buttons on the wall towards Malstrom's left side, and a mechanical lever at the opposite side of the room. The mage-knight could only assume that utilizing any of these devices would impose some risks, as they were more than likely set up by the masters of this gladiator tournament. Pressing a button could potentially spell one's doom, while the other could grant a life-saving boon. Throughout this battle, Malstrom will keep in mind of these devices. If the situation ever calls for it, the warrior shall take advantage of these presented options.

The Tempest Knight stood back up, which straightened the Captain's tall and proud posture. Malstrom held a tall figure of nearly six feet, which may emit an intimidating appearance to others. Malstrom's own weaponry was also in obvious display: the large halberd and shield were strapped to the knight's back, along with a dangling Holy Grenade on the right side of the waist, and the Blessed Dagger sheathed upon the left side. The Captain had quite a few options, along with a large array of magical spells to use.

Finally, the Tempest Knight began a silent but aggressive approach for the battle. The mage-knight suddenly darted around the orb of electricity, before sprinting directly towards the ranger. Simultaneously, both of the Captain's arms reached backwards and pulled free both the halberd and shield separately. Malstrom's steel greaves pounded heavily against the ground surface – almost in beat with the angry-sounding music.

Despite already using a minor spell - which depleted both Malstrom's mana pool and physical prowess – the templar warrior will not back down from this fight. There was too much on the line, and the mage-knight could not afford a loss. The mage-knight's reactionary speed should not have slowed that much, and Malstrom should still be capable of maneuvering around the battlefield quickly. The Captain's right hand tightly gripped the shaft of the halberd, and Malstrom bitterly anticipated the upcoming adrenaline rush of combat.

The Tempest Knight charged straight towards the ranger, baring very aggressive intentions.

I look forward to this challenge, ranger.

[.Karma.]

As the battle began and the music echoed through the room, another sound of machinery rang throughout the room. It was almost identical to the sound they heard when the lights came on. It almost screeched, putting the music in the room to shame. When the noise fell silent once again, the fighters would notice the floor was moving just a bit faster now. The normal leisurely pace they were walking at to keep up with the conveyor belt now was a fast walk if they wanted to not be taken by the flames that called to them from their deepest depths.

[Salroka]

The Fight Of His Life (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_nSoBsN2Qg)


Of all the Yozi-worshipping... Stoic silence, magic, thick and ornate armor, and a massive weapon that most would struggle to even lift? Lars concluded he was being pitted against one of the Anathema. Normally, that would instill the most grave of fear in a man of Lars' background... but the will of this young huntsman was bolstered by his unyielding faith in the Immaculate Dragons. If any anathema was so pitiful as to prey upon the unexalted, then they were clearly at the bottom rung of power and standing among their peers. This... was a fight Lars could WIN.

The sparking and hissing orb of lightning seemed to move along with the floor. A trap, then? Interesting idea. Though if one was to make a trap you'd think to conceal it rather than leave it in the open. Still, it was a clear and present danger to say the least. Not so much so as the armored foe before him, but worth keeping mental note of for sure. "What is he doing?" thought Lars for a moment. The armored figure's sudden charge answered the question rather clearly... the knight was coming in for the quick kill. To boot, the massive size of the man's polearm assured the message was loud and clear.

Lars immediately tossed his bow and arrow aside and drew his hand-axe and hunting knife. He'd read enough stories about the struggles of the Wyld Hunt against the Anathema to know a thing or two. He'd never had any need or desire to TEST this amateur knowledge, but now he had little choice but to put it to the test. The young huntsman shouted at the top of his lungs: "The Dragons are smiling upon me, Anathema! Can you say the same?!" and rushed in headlong to meet this blasphemous affront to his faith.

His only hope was that the stories were accurate: That closing in on a polearm-wielding foe would render them unable to use the massive weapon effectively. That wasn't to say Lars was unaware of the shining knife at the man's side. It was of no doubt much higher quality than the worn and well-used blade that was gripped tightly in his left hand, and would likely cut through skin and sinew as easily as a spoon through soft custard. There was what looked like some sort of... canteen... at the knight's other side. An odd-looking canteen, but the Anathema were not known for having good taste. Little did Lars know that the small device was far from a harmless water container.

Just as suddenly as it had started to move before the combat began, the floor jerked slightly and increased in speed. The noise was maddening and the incinerator seemed to scream like the mouth of oblivion itself, but Lars' will held strong. He would show this monster and whatever sick bastards were watching that they should not take the citizens of the Blessed Isle so lightly. Soon he and the unknown anathema would collide and engage in melee combat. It was not his strong point, but a bow was useless against such heavy armor and that halberd would cleave the young man in two otherwise. Given the options, Lars had no choice if he wanted any chance of survival.

He had only one thought in his mind as he closed in on his foe: "Mela, Pasiap, Hesiesh, Daana'd, Sextes Jylis... I fight in your name. For the glory of the Immaculate Order!

This was it: The clash between a mighty armored anathema and a greenhorn adventurer from the ruins of the Imperial City. Many would say it was a foregone conclusion. They would say the poor boy had no hope. Who would raise their weapons against one of the anathema unless they were of the Dragon's direct blood? Well, the responses to those things were: It isn't, he DID have hope, and Lars-sodding-Bakerson that's who.

[RedKayne]

As Lightning Strikes (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wyfRVjn71ho)


Skin against skin, blood and bone.


Malstrom's steps continued slamming against the ground surface, and the templar already felt sweat beginning to perspire and glisten on the pale skin. Fortunately, the Tempest Knight's armor shouldn't be considered the heavy plated-mail type that encumber the movement of many front-line warriors. Instead, it was durable and rather light – of course it didn't provide the same amount of protection compared to thick plate armor, but it doesn't restrict Malstrom's movement and speed.

The gray eyes of the Tempest Knight locked forward, observing the opponent as the two charged at each other. The huntsman proclaimed that these Dragons were with him, and Malstrom could only assume that these mythical beasts are a part of the ranger's religion.

A religious individual, hmm? Malstrom internally commented.



You're all by yourself, but you're not alone.


The Captain is also a religious person, and proudly worships the Noble of Order, Luthious. The all-powerful and benevolent deity that watches over the world, and is the central religious figure to the Templar Order. Like countless other humans, Malstrom's own religious beliefs have been shaken at many points, especially after the traumatizing experience from a couple years back. However, Captain Malstrom remains steadfast in the faith of Luthious. It is that powerful bond with the god… that gives Malstrom the hope and strength to save someone very important and dear.



You're wanted in now, but you're here.


The lyrics of the song boomed loudly overhead, which Malstrom continually put in the best effort to ignore the cacophony. Despite the harsh sounds of the music, the mage-knight overheard being called an Anathema by the ranger. Malstrom was unsure what exactly is an Anathema, but the ranger was clearly erroneous in his accusation. The Captain had half the mind to pause in movement, before revealing the knight's true nature. As of right now, though, Malstrom could only focus upon commencing the first strike of the battle.



Drive by hate, consumed by fear.


Just right before the chorus of the song repeated, a loud machinery sound screeched loudly throughout the room. The screech basically dwarfed the loud, angry vocals of the music – but then the machine noise quickly silenced itself once more. However, it became very apparent that the conveyor belt was moving at a faster rate, and that a leisure pace would not be able to outrun. Otherwise, one would risk plunging into the hellish flames of the incinerator.

The Tempest Knight's hostile charge abruptly halted. Malstrom's steps paused on the moving conveyor belt, before lowering both weapons - despite the ranger still charging with his hand-axe and hunting knife. Now that Malstrom was about halfway across the room, the knight's gray eyes could see the ghoulish hands reaching out from the incinerator's edge. Those skeletal limbs were seeking an unlucky soul as prey, before dragging that individual into eternal damnation of hellfire. This greatly concerned the knight. Malstrom was further concerned by sudden change in the conveyor belt's speed.

The Captain assessed the current situation, it was in Malstrom's analytical nature to do so. The templar warrior did not wish for either combatants to suffer the fate of the incinerator's flames. Yet, if they continued to battle, while totally disregarding the changes in the conveyor belt – Malstrom can only deduct that the ground's movement will gradually move faster and faster. The result will surely spell doom for one or both individuals, as the belt's speed will completely outpace the fighters.

Malstrom will not let that happen.

The Tempest Knight turned around, away from the approaching ranger. It was not out of disrespect, but the templar had something else in mind. There was still quite a few feet of distance between the two of them, and the huntsman still had to run against the movement of the conveyor belt. The mage-knight faced the upcoming Tempest Orb, before running right back towards the crackling sphere of electricity. It was only a few feet away, and Malstrom quickly ran past it – but also dropped the large halberd right behind the Tempest Orb.

It may have been an odd action, but it may have been also for strategic reasoning. The Tempest Knight could be simply temporarily relieving extra weight, and deducted that the safest place to leave the weapon was right behind the Tempest Orb. If the ranger attempted to take away the weapon, he would risk setting off the trap by being in the orb's close vicinity. Of course, the Tempest Knight still held onto the shield for protective purposes.

Also, Malstrom had another back-up idea in mind - in regards to the Tempest Orb, which will be incorporated if the situation called for it. Hopefully, the combatants will not have to reach that situation.

Suddenly, the Tempest Knight's entire body grew with a radiant golden aura. In a fraction of a second, Malstrom went from a silhouette of golden energy before that energy instantly condensed into a small bolt of electricity. The templar turned into a temporary state of lightning, before that bolt suddenly darted towards one side of the room. It was basically a blur of light, as that lightning bolt shot towards the lever. Right when the lightning bolt reached the lever, the electrical energy expanded itself and reformed into Captain Malstrom once more.

It was one of Malstrom's signature abilities, called Bolting. It was very similar to the teleportation ability, where the knight travels to another location at the speed of light. However, by using a second spell in this battle, Malstrom's own physical prowess has been cut by a tenth. Already, the Tempest Knight could be considered at a disadvantage in this battle.

Despite being weaponless and weakened, Captain Malstrom was still extremely determined to finish this out.

Malstrom quickly reacted, considering there was no time to stand around. The knight's right arm reached forth to the lever attached to the ground, before pulling it. It was a heavily significant risk, because even Malstrom was unsure of the consequences. By pulling this lever – there was a possibility where the conveyor belt would increase its speed to a point where both combatants fall into a grisly end. However, there was also the possibility where Malstrom could completely halt the conveyor belt's progress. From there, two two fighters can simply focus upon each other than worrying about the hazardous environment.

Malstrom was willing to take that risk, and could only hope and silently pray to Luthious that this was the right decision.

[.Karma.]

As the lever is pulled, the machine again lets out a groaning noise as if yelling at the fighters. The belt jolts to a stop, the machine quieting, the bass of the music ringing through the room. The silence of the machine only lasts a moment though before screeching again and the belt starting back up. This time, however, it moves in the other direction, no longer pulling them towards the incinerator but away from it. The speed back to the leisurely pace as it was the very first round.

This effect lasts for one round.

[Salroka]

Lars endured the noise and stink of the incinerator, the grinding of gears in the belt, and the howl of the music. All he could think about was surviving against this knight and making his way home somehow. If he never saw another fight again, it would be too soon. But just as the gap between them was closed, the knight ceased his charge. To top that off, the knight turned away from Lars and dropped his weapon. "What in oblivion is he up to?" thought the young hunter as he slowed his pace and circled along the outside of the room. Something was afoot, but he was not yet sure what it was.

The halberd was dropped near the lightning trap. Clever, considering that taking it was the first thing that popped into Lars' mind Well, that was out. While the young man thought, he saw the knight become as lightning and maneuver over to an unusual lever. Upon jerking the lever in one direction, the infernal screeching of the floor picked up once again and it ceased moving for a moment. However, it quickly picked up movement again. This time, it moved AWAY from the deadly flames. Most fortuitous, to say the least. Still, it was little cosolation to one trapped like a rat in a cage.

Lars had to think fast. He had to do something while he had the chance. His opponent had manipulated part of the environment and something happened... what was to say the same wouldn't hold true for Lars as well. Looking around for something... anything... he noticed there was a large round protrusion in the wall nearby. No way to move it to the sides, so the only option was to push it. "Time to toss the dice, then." grumbled Lars as he slammed his hand against the button as hard as he could muster. Only the dragons knew what would happen next.

"Why me? What the hell am I here for? What did I do to deserve this? Have I offended the Dragons? By Mela, this is most unpleasant." The silent statements came as Lars closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He had to survive this. If the Dynasts could slay the mightiest anathema, he could tangle with this lesser one.

[RedKayne]

A Knight's Revelation (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4jMvO6WrCc)

At least that God-forsaken song finally stopped.

After pulling the lever, the factory room released another low groan sound as the conveyor belt came to an abrupt halt. Malstrom nearly stumbled at the sudden movement, but held onto the mechanical lever to retain balance. The Captain sighed with relief, because the knight's plan worked out for the better. Now, the two combatants shouldn't have to worry about…

Malstrom's heart nearly dropped at the sound of yet another screech, and the conveyor belt's movement commenced once more. However, this time, it was moving at a slow pace towards the opposite direction and away from the incinerator. Despite the unexpected consequences, Malstrom could still be content with the decision that was made. The knight's plan half-worked, and the gradual pace towards the opposite direction is simply a lesser hassle to deal with.

Yet, the Tempest Knight was unsure if this new situation was only temporary, or permanent for the remainder of the match. It would be wise to finish this battle without any further delays.

Malstrom's body posture straightened as the knight stood back up by releasing the lever. The mage-knight turned around to face the ranger, and the templar displayed a tall and confident demeanor. The Captain's gray eyes observed the huntsman, whom was darting across the room and towards the three red buttons. He pressed one of the devices, apparently in the hopes of stopping the conveyor belt as well. However, after a brief silence, nothing came into effect and the effort appeared to be wasted.

In all likelihood, it seemed that no matter the endeavors placed by the two fighters, the gods of this tournament will not allow a simple trial by arms. Malstrom will simply have to adapt to the current situation, which shouldn't be too much of an issue. The knight's gray gaze then fell upon the Tempest Orb, as its electricity became more unstable. The electricity could no longer preserve a spherical shape, and it will soon dissipate. However, the mage-knight still had a purpose to utilize the Tempest Orb.

The Captain raised up a right arm, before the knight's fingers quickly snapped. The Tempest Orb suddenly exploded with a powerful, concussive force as electricity shot out. It affected everything that was in its general proximity, including Malstrom's halberd… and also the ranger's bow and arrow. The impact of the explosion caused the halberd to fly back, soaring through the air before it quickly collided against the wall. A loud clang echoed in the room at the impact, before it fell down onto the ground. It remain stuck at the floor's edge, as it met the end of the moving conveyor belt.

The ranger's bow and arrow, however, were not so fortunate. Since they were tossed rather closely to the Tempest Orb, both the shortbow and the quiver of arrows were sent flying to the opposite direction of the blast. The heat of the Tempest Orb's electricity actually caused the wooden bow, and the broadhead arrows, to catch on fire. The lighting of the flames spelled out an ironic fate for the weapon set, as they would soon reach their eternal destination.

The items landed next to the maw of the incinerator, and the ghoulish hands reacted quickly. The charred arms reached forth, grabbing onto the ranger's equipment, before quickly dragging them down into the everlasting hellfire. The skeletal limbs were still not content, as their hands were still wildly searched for live prey.

The Captain's gaze returned back to the huntsman, after witnessing the results of Malstrom's initial trap. The ranger was probably in belief that the bow and arrow would have been ineffective against Malstrom's shield and armor. Otherwise, he wouldn't have discarded his equipment earlier. Despite that, the Captain preferred selecting safe options, and disabling the use of a set of weapons is an ideal example.

“Ranger!” Captain Malstrom finally called out, speaking for the very first time in battle. Malstrom's voice was coated with strength and confidence, and rang sweetly with a soft high-pitch… but most importantly: unmistakably female. “I would like to correct you on an error,” she began, pausing ever so slightly. “I am not this anathema, which you have accused me to be earlier.”

“If you wish to know the name of your opponent… I am Captain Elena Malstrom, a warrior of the most noble Templar Order,” Malstrom finally revealed her identity, as her piercing gray-eyes blinked beneath the helmet. “I wished to battle you on fairer grounds, but unfortunately, it seems this is the best we have.”

Malstrom raised her shield, and a small smile formed beneath her helmet. “However, I am up for the challenge, and very much look forward to it. I hope you are as well, huntsman,” she stated, before quickly charging towards her opponent. The Tempest Knight was noticeably slower compared to the beginning of the battle. The fatigue of employing spells already weighed upon her lithe body, but she still had plenty of energy in reserve. Not only that, but running without the burden of the halberd was extremely helpful.

Malstrom's shield began to glow with a golden light as the Tempest Knight continued to charge. Very quickly, the shield's edge was coated with crackling electricity, and turned the shield itself into an actually formidable weapon - if used appropriately. Unbeknownst to the ranger, Elena Malstrom's mana pool was depleted. She could no longer utilize any spells for the remainder of the battle, other than summoning two more Tempest Orbs if needed.

The effects of the fatigue only magnified, and Malstrom could physically feek her own muscles weakening. Her breathing became more labored, and her pale skin began to perspire more heavily. Elena already used up three spells without ever even attacking the man. However, she had a strong and determined battle spirit. If she could prove victorious in this battle, it would bring the young woman one step closer to her personal goal.

I shall find you... Emperor.

[.Karma.]

The button was pushed and at first it seemed like nothing was happening, the buttons must be broken. Then the room was filled with a loud racket as a hissing sound came from vents as well as the sound of machinery roared through the room again. The lever with a loud thud moved itself back into it's original position, the belt doing the same as before and stopping only briefly in between and heading back toward the raging inferno. The speed was now at a fast walking pace to keep up with it.

The button which appeared to do nothing at first was actually the cause of the hissing noise, it getting louder and louder before a odorless smoke started to seep out of the vents and drop onto the combatants. It would impair both of the fighters vision like a light fog in the early morning would. As the smoke hisses out another song (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XkU23m6yX04) can be heard ringing through the vents.

This effect lasts for one round.

[Salroka]

Please forgive any errors in formatting or coding. As my laptop was stolen, I will be making this post from a very old mobile. Thank you for the understanding.

By the Dragons, this knight seemed to have near limitless potential. It had used two spells almost like it were nothing, and only slowed it pace by a small fraction. Speaking of spells, the crackling trap detonated at a snap of the knight's fingers and sent Lars' bow into the groaning abysmal flames. "You heretical bastard..." grumbled the hunter under his breath. His pap had helped him buy that bow when he was sixteen. Now it was gone. He'd show that knight what denizens of the Imperial Ruins did to people who, destroy things so casually...

Just then, the knight spoke. A name, an order unfamiliar to those of the Blessed Isle, and an expressed desire to have fought on more even terms... Lars was having none of it. "You speak of things that make no sense, Anathema. There is only the Immaculate Order in my lands, and your use of magic is proof of your status." It seemed however that the knight was no longer listening, as she began a charge against the young huntsman. What was worse, it seemed she had enchanted her shield with lightning... certainly not fun for Lars.

Just then, it seemed as if the arena itself came to his rescue. The floor changed direction once more and smoke billowed from above until it filled the chamber with a thick fog not unlike that which often hung in the forests where Lars hunted. This was his chance to capitalize. From the current distance between the two, Lars only saw the silhouette of the knight. Perfect. If that was so, maybe she was similarly impaired! Without a second thought, he clamped his teeth down on the pommel of his hand-axe and wedged his knife under one arm. It was time for a trap.

Reaching into one of his pouches, Lars retrieved a bag of wickedly pointed caltrops, sure to halt any charge. He tossed the metal foot-wreckers in a ninety degree arc in front of him, about three meters away from his current position. With the fog, it was likely the knight would be focused on him rather than the floor. Lastly, to make it seem like he was merely panicking, Lars threw his "Lucky Rock" directly at the knight before making a few steps back and readying his axe and knife once more.


"You'll get yours, Anathema... keep coming. That's right. Attack your enemy directly and without fear. That's a good heretic." It seemed Lars was fairly confident this trap would succeed in crippling the charging knight, otherwise he would be praying to the dragons instead. Still, he had seen the tiny spikes stop a moose in its tracks, so why wouldn't they work to stop a charging knight? All he had to do now was hold still. Soon the knight would crumble to the ground and he would deliver the finishing blow. "Just a bit closer, monster. Soon the Dynasts will hear of how I vanquished one of the Anathema. Surely there is a fat reward in my future."

This was it. Either his trap would succeed and he would emerge the victor, or he would be trampled and electrocuted by the knight's powerful charge. Only time would tell... and Lars hoped it was on his side.

[RedKayne]

The Emperor's Return (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8WyZzXSPac)

Yet again, the room itself came alive with the coarse sounds of machinery activating. An odorless smoke descended from the vents above, which accompanied the disturbing hissing sounds. The audible noise of the lever returning to position echoed across the room, and dismayed the Tempest Knight. The conveyor belt reversed itself once more, and directed the combatants towards the incinerator's hell-flames. Lastly, another song erupted from undisclosed sources, and boomed loudly overhead.

Captain Malstrom's steps halted as the situation changed itself. This song proved to be a bit more difficult to ignore, as the tones of cackling hyenas and the emphasis on the lyrics “Be Prepared” distorted the current combat situation. The music itself was extremely out of place for a serious matter, and Elena's gray eyes only rolled back at the childish act. Apparently, the gods of this tournament fully enjoyed toying with the participants. Malstrom wouldn't be surprised if a trickster, a child-like deity, or a small-minded being was responsible for this song choice.

Regardless, the Captain had to focus upon finishing this battle. Elena's attention shifted back to her challenger, but then she suddenly froze. Malstrom's piercing eyes widened with fear, her lithe body stiffened, and her breathing became more labored…

The smoke filled the battlefield and impaired the vision of the competitors. She could no longer view the ranger clearly, she could only see his shadowy silhouette… a dark figure.

I can't… I can't...

She couldn't breathe. Malstrom's legs trembled as if the very ground itself was quaking, and immediately those legs gave out. The metallic knee plates thumped loudly against the black surface, and the mage-knight's free arm shot towards the ground. Her palm slammed against the conveyor belt, and the Captain struggled to retain balance.

Not now… Please, Luthious… No...

Captain Malstrom glanced back up at the opposition. The dark figure's eyes glowed with blue flames, which signified malevolent intentions. Elena's entire body was shuddering in fear, and felt like she was suffocating. The dark figure quickly rushed towards her, and the knight's paralyzed body couldn't do anything to dodge the assault.

The demonic force was in front of her, and then there was a flash of steel. Pain shot throughout the Tempest Knight's entire body, as a blade cut across her torso. Blood splattered onto the conveyor belt… no… it splattered onto gray mud.

She was no longer in the incinerator room.

They were in the outdoors. It was the dead of night, but dark clouds were above and heavy rain poured down. She knelt onto the mud... knees sinking into the ground as if it was quicksand. The templar breathed heavily, as blood dripped down from the large gash across her chest.

Malstrom's head barely lifted itself, as she struggled to find the strength to stand back up. The Captain's blurry vision cleared momentarily to reveal the black knight whom assaulted her.


The Cold Emperor. (http://coolvibe.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/dark_knight_ver_2.jpg)

The almighty death knight stood before the kneeling young woman. His eyes of blue-flame flared with anger and hatred, and her blood coated the destructive dual blades he carried. There was a brief flash of lightning behind the imposing warrior, before thunder boomed aloud in the area. The heavy rain pelleted against the Emperor's obsidian-black armor, and he stared down at the young woman in brief silence.

"Stay down, or else you will fade away," the Cold Emperor warned with finality. He shall spare no mercy to this woman, if she intends to stop him from achieving his goal for vengeance.

Elena nearly gagged from the stench of death in the air, and then she coughed into her hand as something caught in her throat. It was blood. Blood seeped from her lips, down to her chin, before it fell and mixed with the ground's gray substance.

The templar paid no heed to the blood or the grievous injury. Malstrom could not ignore the grave threat before her. The knight's eyes glanced back up, watching the blue-flames staring down at her. “I will… not… I cannot… let you...”

The Emperor raised up his right sword, preparing Elena Malstrom's final judgment.


"Die."


Die.


Die.

Die.


Anger.

Death.


Hatred.

Weak.


Pathetic.


Die.

Die. Die. Die.


Vengeance. Wrath.

Darkness. Rage.


Die. Die. Die. Die. Die.



Clunk! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4l7fhxNrrrM)

Elena raised up a free hand, and then gently touched her forehead. There was a small red welt, directly above her right eyebrow. Something small hit the young woman, and snapped the Tempest Knight back into her senses. She glanced down at the moving black surface of the conveyor belt. The Captain's helmet lying on the ground. Which was strange, but perhaps at one point during the nightmare - Malstrom ripped off the helmet in belief that it was suffocating her.

However, her gray gaze fell upon the small object lying next to the helmet.

It was a tiny rock.

The Captain had no understanding at first where the rock came from, but then quickly deducted that it was thrown by her opponent. Perhaps the huntsman intended to distract her, or bait her into attacking... but it only ended up saving Elena by bringing her back into reality.

Could the Captain consider it luck?

No, it was much more than that. Her god, the Noble Luthious, saved her from the nightmare that has haunted her since two years ago. The night where the Cold Emperor nearly took Elena's life.

Blessed Luthious, I thank you for your kindness and benevolence, Malstrom silently prayed. The knight lifted herself from the ground, and clenched tightly onto the electrical shield with her left hand. I won't let you down, Elena's determined gray eyes narrowed upon her opponent - the silhouette of Lars. Shoulder-length silver hair cascaded upon her shoulders, but the smoke masked her face from sight. I shall be victorious in this battle, and I will find him...

Thank you for standing by me, Lord Luthious.

"Ranger!" Malstrom's strong voice called out to her opponent. Earlier, the huntsman dismissed the knight's words and still called her an Anathema. If an Anathema is a magical-user in his own language, then there's nothing Elena could do to dissuade him otherwise.

"Why do you fight?" The Tempest Knight questioned him, genuinely curious. "Do fight for survival? Do you to protect your family, or loved ones, perhaps?" She inquired, trying gain a better understanding of the huntsman. Everybody has their reasons to battle. The Cold Emperor himself fought others to become a stronger individual, and in hopes of completing his quest for vengeance.

Elena's own reason was rather complex.

"If you don't mind sharing, ranger, then I will share my reasons," she stated.

Malstrom's right arm crossed her chest and reached for the shield. She gripped onto the edge, and nonchalantly ignored the electricity crackling around her hand.

"I fight because I want to save the life of a person very dear to me."

Elena's voice rang firmly in the battlefield. The two individuals were closing upon the incinerator, and they didn't have much time left before they would reach the ghoulish hands.

"And I will do everything in my power to accomplish that goal. That is why I cannot lose in this match."

The knight then corked her body slightly in a counter-clockwise motion, and then tensed the muscles of her dominant arm - which held the shield in a horizontal position.

"I will be victorious. The gods of this tournament withhold the information I need."

The Tempest Knight made her final move. Her body quickly uncorked itself, and she flung the electrical shield towards her opponent. The shield soared through the air as a projectile, spinning rapidly to gain velocity. It flew above the caltrops that the ranger set up earlier, unbeknownst to the Captain.

The shield directly aimed itself at the huntsman's chest. If there was a direct impact, the shield would surely break a couple of rib bones, and the electricity revolving around the shield would cause moderate burns to the man. However, it wouldn't kill him - but surely the attack would cripple him and give the victory to the templar.

"And with Lord Luthious by my side... there is nothing I shall fear."

[.Karma.]

"And with Lord Luthious by my side... there is nothing I shall fear."

Just as the word fear was uttered, the lights went out, the only light remaining being that of the inferno. The flames dancing around, as if hungry for their flesh. The arms and now the faces of the previous fighters could be seen in the blaze. That was until the flames, also, were suddenly doused. The heat could still be felt coming from the hole in the wall, but the room was pitch black. The conveyor belt made one last final scream before stopping and leaving the room in a still silence. The music cutting off and they were once again left in the same situation as when they started the battle.

Darkness and silence surrounded them, but only for a few short seconds until hushed sounds of groaning could be heard from where the inferno once raged. The one or two groans that were at first heard, turned into a chorus where the room was filled with their cries. Then, if you listened closely you could hear their bodies against the conveyor belt. Some were dragging, some steps could be heard, and some sounds that were indiscernible in their nature. The groans and movement seemed to be approaching albeit at a lackadaisical speed. The inferno must be fed, it must be satiated. At least one of these combatants would be the one to feed its ravenous hunger and become one with the flames.

Which would it be?

[.Karma.]

Writing Style:


Artistry and Complexity (creativity/originality, risky techniques and intricate details that enrich the post, unusual structuring and changing styles)


RedKayne seemed to lead here with the risky moves, first with orb of electricity which I think was very clever to have basically this attack which was meant to be stationary and having it move with the floor. Also, in having Elena drop her own weapon in order to operate the lever. Creatively I really like that he left Elena’s gender a secret and revealing it later as a sort of plot twist, spending all of the posts up until then not using any type of gender pronouns. Also, I found that adding the lyrics of the song was a creative way of being aware of his surroundings and acknowledging what was happening in the arena. It helped break up the post and made it quite enjoyable to read. The very last post showed an artistry that had been missing a lot of the battle, with the words across the screen and Elena’s flashback.

Beta seemed to play more off of the confusion he had at being placed in such an arena, which kept to his character very well and made it creative. How Lars didn’t know what to do with the buttons until Elena pulled the lever and made something happen with the environment. Overall though, I feel like other than the confusion, there was more so a lot of just stating what had already happened.

Beta- 2.25
RedKayne-2.75


Fluidity and Clarity (Ease of following the action of the post, and smoothness in reading and understanding it)


I believe with both Kayne and Beta it was very clear what their actions were along with their motivations of why they were doing it. There wasn’t really a point where I did not understand what was happening in the battle between the two of them

Beta-3.00
RedKayne-3.00


Conventions (grammar/spelling/punctuation)


There were only minute errors in this area, both fighters were very meticulous in not making these kind of mistakes.

Both receive a score of 3.00

Effectiveness of Combat:

Character Consistency (How well do the actions of the character in the post reflect or fit who/what they are, their capabilities, and their limitations?)


I think again that both RedKayne and Beta did very well here. Beta definitely did with the confusion and not knowing what the devices were or why the floor was moving or how the music was coming through. Also in comparing the knight to an Anathema regardless of what Elena said she was. The determination and hope also seemed to be very genuine and reflective of Lars. Kayne also stayed with his character, often mentioning that the Lars must be a ranger, and getting a bit cocky when revealing her character as a woman. The desire to not kill Lars and hopefully just win the battle. RedKayne mentioned Beta’s character as being religious and reflected on her own religious nature. She was more calculating and more focused on the combat so she could succeed and move along with her goal which suited her character as well.

Again both receive a 3.00.


Ingenuity (How well does the character handle situations in original, interesting, yet effective ways? Does the player simply repeat the same actions and put little thought in their moves, or do they provide interesting responses to the situations they’re in?)


This is where I feel that once again RedKayne had the upper hand. Redkayne never used the same technique, using the lightning orb in one post, tossing his weapon and using a spell to grab the lever the next, and using the orb to then get rid of weapons, at the possible detriment of his own. Also, he provided interesting responses to the music change when Lars pushed the button and that the let the bodies hit the floor was grating on his nerves. His insults about the song Be Prepared, though, earned him a .000001 deduction. Jerk ;) The way RedKayne used the flashback definitely showed an interesting response to her surroundings and was quite creative.

Beta didn’t use many actions at all, he was very reactive and mostly just focused on the fact that it was an odd environment for him. I didn’t really believe there was a lot of thought put into his movements until the 3rd post with the caltrops, I think it was a very interesting choice at that point to try and stop the charge as well as throwing the lucky rock as a distraction, it definitely is not something I would have thought of.

Beta-1.75
RedKayne-2.5


Choreography (How well does the character/player interact with the other player’s character? Is it like a battle dance? Or two rubber chickens banging their heads together?)


In this battle I don’t really feel like the characters interacted well together at all on either fighters parts. They were both more focused on their environments or being introspective. There was not really many attacks at all that were actually aimed at one another until the very end. So, in saying as much, there wasn’t much of a chance to have a ‘battle dance’.

Beta-2.00
RedKayne-2.00

Control of the Field:

Environmental Awareness (How well do you roleplay awareness to the surrounding environmental conditions with your character, taking into account how they affect your character, positively and negatively?)



The environment in this battle was definitely mentioned in every post, from both fighters reactions to the floor switching directions, the inferno at the end of the belt, and the sounds the ones who had already been given to the fire made. Both characters mentioned and wrote their reactions in their posts. The only difference I believe was that RedKayne actually tried to involved and include reactions to the music when Beta pushed the button and mentioned the hands coming from the fire a few times.

This was something that was done well by both.

Beta-2.75
RedKayne-3.00


Strategic Awareness (How well do you play off your character’s abilities, strengths and weaknesses in each situation/round? Are you aware of the ways that the environment and your opponent’s actions can affect your character? Are you able to anticipate and turn these to your advantage or minimize the damage to your own character effectively?)


In this section, Beta didn’t seem to show a lot of his strengths until the battle was half over. Although he did mention not giving up hope, which is a strength. It was more just reacting to what RedKayne posted. He did however definitely write about his weaknesses, how the environment was different and that Lars was scared and confused, yet trying to make sense of it all. He also used the arena to his benefit with the caltrops and lucky rock, showing a creative way to get out of a hazardous situation..

RedKayne seemed to have a goal in mind and seemed a bit more aware of the effects of what was happening around Elena. Where the weapons were on the belt and what effects the detonation would have on them, and being able to at least get rid of one of the opponent's weapons. He used his his spells as a strengths to help him use the environment. He was also the first to try and use the environment to see what it might do to give him an advantage or at least stop himself from heading toward the inferno.

Beta-2.5
RedKayne-2.75



Control of the Fight (Did you maintain control of the situation? Was your opponent on their heels scrambling to meet your attacks, or were you on yours? If you were not in control for most of the fight, was there an impressive “turn” in the direction of the combat; did you turn the tables on your opponent in a decisive manner through surprise or cleverness?


I think RedKayne had control of this battle from the first post. It felt that Beta was mostly reactive and on the back foot most of the time. RedKayne was the first to use one of his spells, the first to use the environment, he used the orb to get rid of weaponry, and was the one to charge forward each time they got close to one another. Beta was very reactive and didn’t take a lot of initiative. There seemed like there wasn’t a lot of actual fighting at all in this battle. The one defining moment for Lars was when he used the fog to his advantage and threw the caltrops down while seeming to flee in fright, which stuck well to his character, but again that was after Elena had already charged.

So in this section I give Beta a 2 and Kayne a 2.5

The final score is:
Beta: 22.25
RedKayne: 24.5

Congratulations, RedKayne! Elena has been victorious :)

I enjoyed being your judge and really getting to get into the minds of your characters especially when I created an environment they weren’t familiar with. Thanks for a good read! :)