《Freemen of the West!》
And they come!
And with a flash 2 adults, 10 kids entered Royal Road for the first time. Eyes wide as they took in the splendor that is Aidern Kingdom, but as their eyes settled on Fort Odin in the distance and loud scream drew the attention of everyone around.
¡°Monsters!!!!!¡±
The newcomers looked around in shock and fear at the suddenness of the cry and began to frantically search for rampaging monsters. Their attention was quickly drawn however to firm thuds and metal clanking as 2 squads of the city''s guardsmen surrounded them, then aimed their halberds pointed at them menacingly
One of the men stepped forward, ¡°You,¡± he said simply pointing to what looked to be the oldest person in the group. ¡°Why are you here? And why did you bring these monsters into our city? Leave this city at once and take them with you or we will be forced to kill you all!¡±
¡°There will be no need for that sergeant,¡± a firm voice called out. ¡°These not be monsters, these be freemen if I ever seen one.¡± At this a dwarf stepped amongst the group stopping before the creature that most likely caused the scream. ¡°By Thor''s hammer! What da hell ye be?¡± The dwarf asked straining its neck looking almost directly up at the strange creature before it.
It lowered its body in a squat showing unusual flexibility as it came eye to eye with the dwarf slowly so as not to frighten anyone. ¡°Well madam, I''m a Were-cat.¡±
The female dwarf stroke her chin as she considered this information eyeing him sideways. ¡°If ye be one of the were-folk, why do ye look like that?¡± She finished while waving at his overall look. ¡°Ye be a strange looking creature!¡±
¡°From where I''m standing, could that not be said about you?¡±
This reply caused a shocked look to reach the female dwarfs face. It lasted but a moment before she started bellowing out a laugh that could never be called feminine, ¡°HA! HA! HAH! True lad! So very true. But if you be a were-cat, what then, is she?¡± she asked now pointing at a petite female who was staring wide eyed at the dwarf that was now pointing at her.
¡°What are you pointing at me for?¡± the young girl practically screamed in reply before flinching at the sharp points now directed at her.
¡°Lass, I''ll have no back talk from the likes of you! Now speak on what ye be or the watch''ll have ye!¡± The dwarfs tone had taken on a steely edge to it that no one wanted directed at themselves.
¡°Kaylie! Your eyes! Their red!¡± another member of the group called out identifying the person who had the female dwarfs entire attention.
¡°What? Wait! What are you talking about?¡± The girl asked in confusion as a young human male stepped forward putting his hand on her shoulder.
¡°Kaylie, I need you to calm down before these people decide to kill us and lock us out on our first day here. Let me see your status window, repeat after me,¡± he said before giving her the voice command she needed to follow.
¡°Sh...show status window to Casden.¡±
(if there was a chart, it''d be here, Hehehe!)
¡°Well, it says you''re a vampire. But, how could you not know that?¡± Casden asked truly shocked.
¡°But...but...I don''t want to be a vampire!¡± she screamed out falling to her knees with tear pours out of her eyes.
¡°If you didn''t want to be a vampire why did you pick it?¡±
¡°I didn''t pick it!
¡°Kaylie, before you were able to log in someone should have asked you what you wanted your race to be and if you wanted to change your appearance. Didn''t that happen?¡±
¡°Well....¡± she paused thinking back. ¡°I think she might have, but I was running late...¡±
¡°And...¡±
¡°We...when started talking, I said I didn''t care so I could catch up with you guys,¡± this last spoken with a guttural cry accompanied by even more tears.
This last bit of information caused many palms of nearby freemen to slam painfully into their own faces.
The group was surprised again by the bellowing laugh of the female dwarf drawing everyone''s attention back to her. ¡°Sergeant, I think this is just a group of newly arrived freemen. How about I show them around and they can help me with my orders? I believe Lady Laenaya has some spare rooms to offer these...people. Why not check up on them there later?¡± said the dwarf turning now to face the watch sergeant. The entire groups head jerked back at the pop-up message they all received.
(Ding jerks! If I was doing those chart things you find the information here! Lol!)
Removing his hand from the sword at his side he motioned for his men to raise their arms. ¡°Who is the leader of this group?¡±
Two men stepped forward glancing at each other coming to an unspoken agreement. ¡°Good sir,¡± the shorter of the two spoke. ¡°It''s true that we are new here but we mean the people of this city and land no harm. My name is Chen and this is,¡±
¡°Nick,¡± the man with short cropped hair filled in at his companion''s questioning glance.
¡°Yes, we are here to help watch over our young charges. We would accept the ladies offer for guidance and lodging and offer our full cooperation in anything we can help you with.¡± turning to the others in their party he asked, ¡°do you lads agree?¡±
¡°We accept!¡± was coursed from the rest of the group.
(Ding!Ding! Ding! They done accepted!)
The surrounding crowd chose that moment to disperse once everyone realized that nothing more was going to happen. ¡°Gather round, gather round! I won''t bite. My name is Thrala of the Stonevein clan and if ye did''na know, ye be in Aidern Kingdom. Since you''re new ye only have bread and a canteen on ye. Why don''t you take a moment to get a drink from the fountain behind ye and go ahead and fill''em up.¡± She waited while the party did so and once everyone was ready she started out with a cheery, ¡°This way!¡±
First she led them to a map of the city and the surrounding areas. Then she took them to the market. Throughout the day she pointed. Sometimes to things she was buying, others to important buildings and areas of the town. When she saw people she knew personally or through rumor they were pointed out also with warnings on those they needed to avoid.
Finally they arrived at a building that took up an entire city block. Made entirely of Stone with massive wood beams, the structure stood three stories tall. The group entered through what they found out was the back door that lead into a large kitchen. ¡°Just sit those bags there dearies,¡± she said pointing to a wall off to the side. 13 large bags were set down. Each member of the group having carried one of the large bags on their back while the tall were-cat carried one on each shoulder, taking advantage of his greater strength. ¡°If ye to dense to notice this is the kitchen well, ye might not like it here.¡±
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Everyone smiled now quite used to her straight forward attitude. She then led the group through a tour of the massive building that simply blew their minds and finally ending it at a pair of highly polished wooden doors. ¡°Wait here,¡± the dwarf said and with a soft knock she opened one the the doors slightly and entered alone. The closing door indicated that the group should wait gave them the first chance to talk alone among themselves.
¡°Wow, that was tiring,¡± Kaylie said dropping down onto a nearby seats taking in what was obviously a receiving room for someone important. ¡°I''ve never worked that hard in my life!¡±
¡°Kids,¡± Nick mumbled under his breath while shaking his head. He''d already taken in his surroundings and was already positioned to keep all entryways insight.
¡°So what do you guys think?¡± The tall were-cat asked gesturing to the others.
¡°This whole thing is amazing!¡±
¡°I never thought anything like this could happen!¡±
¡°That dwarf was awesome!¡±
¡°Did you see that HUGE KNIGHT in the red armor! I wanna be a knight!¡±
Many more comments like these were expressed before one of them stepped forward and in a slightly louder voice stated, ¡°We''ve hit the jackpot!¡±
This brought all noise to a halt and all eyes focused on him with questioning faces.
¡°Look at where we are,¡± he started talking low in case anyone was listening at doors. The others drew close as he continued. ¡°Just look at this place. It''s beyond believable. They make and sell their own goods out of here. I don''t know about you guys, but on the tour, I got a new Art stat. And it''s been going up as I looked at every painting, vase and sculpture here. She purposely took us into rooms you wouldn''t normally show to strangers you just met. Plus the new stats and increases in points I''ve gotten since we started following her,¡± he paused collecting his thoughts before continuing.
¡°She told that watchman that he could find us here. We can''t leave the city for 4 weeks in-game time. That means they have room for us to stay. All they''ll want us to do is work for them. They get cheap labor while we get skills, money, looking at that kitchen food isn''t going to be a problem and the most important thing is that we have a safe place to stay. We can be robbed by thieves so we will have a safe place to store our extra money and valuables so that if anything happens to us we don''t loose anything we really want.¡±
The others nodded when the man named Nick asked, ¡°how do you know so much?¡±
Not taking any offense to the honest question Casden replied, ¡°I''m into anime and manga,¡± at their blank looks he sighed and explained simply. ¡°For now, consider it the Superbowl of cartoons and comics,¡± understanding nods greeted his eyes so he continued. ¡°If we play our cards right this can be our base of operations for as long as we can make it last. We can learn some skills that we''re gonna need when we leave here and most importantly we can either earn money for our gear or learn how to make our own gear. We all saw what they had here, consider what you saw that you might want to do or might be useful and don''t forget to add the things we saw on our tour of the city.¡± Before he could go on the door that Thrala entered opened to reveal her as she waved them inside. They entered the large office taking in the expensive sturdy but elaborate furniture and expensive looking decor This was a working persons office. Giving off an air of wealthy tenacity
The lady behind the large desk wore a simple silk dress. She wore no rings on her fingers nor bracelets on her wrists. Just a simple gold necklace and golden studs in her ears. She removed her wire rimmed reading glasses as she took in the mixed group of people before her. She was a mature woman late 30''s with smile lines just forming at her eyes and lips that became more pronounced as she graced them with a welcoming smile. ¡°Welcome to Stones Throw! My name is Lady Laenaya, and I am the owner. Thrala has told me what happened at the square and I wish to apologize to the young lady freeman. Not all of us are closed minded to the other races of the world. But some may have been fighting for to long and memories are long. Do you accept my apology on behalf of the people of this world?¡± Lady Laenaya asked after having risen from her desk, coming around to stand before Kaylie.
¡°Yes, yes I do!¡±
(Dude! I said DING! Something about following Thrala home)
Everyone in the party tried not to let the surprise pop-up cause them to flinch as it had the fist couple of times it happened. Kenshi had even walked into a light post because several pop-ups came up and he was to embarrassed to ask how to get rid of them. Casden explained the importance of reading each post as they will have important information that they''d HAVE to know. Why else would the game make a point of showing it to you. They agreed to his logic and just minimized them to the bottom of their view. They stacked with a number indicating how many unread posts they had so it didn''t cause hardships then they continued on.
¡°Thank you deary, thank you. Since you do have such a diverse group I''d also like to offer you lodging here. It may be difficult with some of your members and it would ease my conscious if I knew you were at least safe at night.¡±
¡°Lady Laenaya, we are very grateful for you hospitality but we could never take advantage of someone as caring as you. Maybe we could work out an arrangement were we can work around here and actually earn our own way. That way all of our minds can be at ease.¡±
¡°My what a charming young man,¡± Lady Laenaya said her cheeks reddening in a blush. Tyden the were-cat had stepped forward and taken the ladies hand gently in his own covering it with his other hand/paw. ¡°Will you stay and work for me? You''ll earn an honest pay for any work you do?¡±
¡°We accept!¡±
Chapter 2
¡°Ahh! That tutor is brutal!¡± Kenshi complained as the group gathered together in the common room for the servants quarters. Their were similar comments from the other students while the two adults just eyed each other knowingly.
¡°So what do we do now?¡± Kaylie asked getting everyone''s mind on the game.
¡°Well it''s morning here, first we should visit the kitchens for something to eat. I''d imagine at least 2 of us will be drafted for kitchen duty. Anyone here want to be a chef?¡± Casden asked. When he received no answer he asked a different question. ¡°OK, is anyone interested in learning the cooking skill or at least willing to learn it?¡±
Tyden, Ani, Calina and Gai all indicated they were willing. Casden hid his surprise when Tyden volunteered but he nodded. ¡°Good, That will take care our food this morning. We still have 8 pieces of bread left each so no press anything if we cant get any food to take with us today. Be nice to everyone you see and if they seem open try to talk to them. That''s how you get quests and since we cant go out and fight to gain levels all we can do is quests to get stronger.¡±
With agreeing nods he continued, ¡°They have two storefronts that faced a main avenue that many if not most people passed. They were popular since they didn''t over charge for the products they made in house. There was even a blacksmith''s on one side of the property that made the items that were sold inside. Anyone wanna be a tailor or blacksmith?¡±
Jessika or Jess for short raised her hand immediately ¡°Um, I''m actually trying to be a fashion designer so I''d like to be a tailor¡±
¡°Blacksmith?¡±
¡°I''ll do it,¡± said Nick. ¡°We''re here to support you guys and I have a little background in a similar profession.¡±
¡°And I think I''ll have a go at being the parties cook,¡± Chen said agreeing with Nick. ¡°If I focus on cooking for a bit I''d only need one of you as a helper or replacement in case I''m busy.¡± Ani decided to stay as shes been cooking her own food for years. Calina and Gai volunteered to work the storefronts. ¡°There will probably be various errands and other small jobs to do and the rest of us will handle those. Lets give it our all, I''m sure we''ll have the afternoon to go exploring the city on our own.¡± And with that they went off to their first day of work.
Kaylie and Casden were charged with cleaning all the rooms one on each floor. Tyden laughed heartily when he and Orion as the largest members were guided to the basement to clear out all the large furniture and debris Kenshi followed Thrala on her routes. It seemed that she handled all the deliveries and purchases so she basically used Kenshi as a mule. Shade was sent on various errands for Lady Laenaya who giggled sweetly when Tyden descended into the basement eyeing her with a grin.
Though they remained busy, it wasn''t long before the group met once again in the servant common''s room. ¡°Sorry I''m late,¡± Jessika said as she rushed in closing the door behind her.
¡°Don''t worry about,¡± Casden said waving it away. ¡°I take it everyone''s first day on job went well?¡± he asked seeing everyone is such high spirits.
¡°You know, I don''t think I''ve ever enjoyed cleaning out the basement,¡± Orion said with a laugh. ¡°There was so much stuff down there, we''ll be busy for a week!¡± he finished with Tyden nodding in agreement.
¡°Today was awesome! I spent the first part of the day tearing fabric then sowing it back up.¡± Everyone laughed at Jessika''s display with her squinting eyes and pursed lips. ¡°That dwarf Dura was real standoffish at first. Someone told me that she just didn''t like teaching dwarfs, but was otherwise a nice person. Well I was in the Kitchen at lunch eating and drawing on a torn piece of paper I found and next thing I know she slams a new piece of paper and a pencil and told me to draw it again. We started talking and when she found out I wanted to be a designer when I grow up she showed me her book of designs She''s got like a THOUSAND original styles that she doesn''t even sell in the store. She said if I prove myself to her she would give me a copy and a new one just for me!¡± At this she was jumping in place, cheeks rosy with color and hands clasped below her chin.
¡°That''s great Jessika!¡± several people chorused as others said similar congratulations Her cheeks glowed with excitement. Many of the others told of similar circumstances for a couple minutes before the question of what to do next came up.
¡°We''re going to the training grounds,¡± Nick broke in first. Nine pair of eyes were looking at him like he was crazy, especially the girls. He sighed as he realized he''d have to explain something so basic. ¡°We''re going to go out their exploring. Even if you are not a fighter you need to know at least the basics on how to protect yourself.¡± This last was said to Casden who looked back calmly.
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¡°Well...yeah, I see your point.¡± Ani said meekly. It took a little further convincing before the others were in complete agreement but the group were soon walking along the crowded streets headed toward the training center.
The leader of the training center was surprised when a large group of freemen came jogging down the street, single file while a man with short cut hair ran along side them singing a strange song that they repeated back breathlessly. After a short moment to run through some stretches they entered into his training center. He followed quietly behind as the group conversed together as they looked over the assorted weapons. Soon they each hand one, including the tall one with the tail. He carried a wooden great-sword with one hand and seemed to have only a slight problem with the weight. Even after the shorter of the two adults stopped him to question his choice before he could take his fist swing. What ever the creature said seemed to appease the other and he stepped back and observed as he took several swings at the practice dummy before nodding and heading to one of the females that had chosen a rapier like blade favord by female players. It didn''t have much attack power but its size and weight allowed for more strikes allowing for faster players.
The training grounds instructor was then distracted by another freeman, to then carry on with his other duties. An hour had passed before the group left splitting off in smaller groups. An hour isn''t very long to train the instructor thought to himself before shrugging his shoulders with a chuckle. He''d seen some that after striking a training dummy and having the sword fly out of his hands, smacking himself in the face. Just too storm off screaming how stupid swords were. ¡°I wonder what ever happened to that kid?¡±
That kid in fact was running for his life in a dungeon. His entire party was wiped out, they''d cleared the entire first floor save for one monster. He and a friend WERE the last two when this monster showed up from know where stabbing his friend in the back killing him instantly. Now he ran. He was a fire-mage, a pretty strong one too. He focused on the element fire solely so his spells were quite strong. The only problem is this monster seemed immune to fire! Its body seemed very frail, sickly even. He didn''t have time to look at the info on the monster before it lunged at him with a knife. He just jumped to his feet grabbed the front of his fire red robes lifting it clear of his legs and RAN!
It was right behind him! He could hear it breathing down his neck. The only weapon he had in his hands was a sword he was picking up after killing a ooze blob that held a dead skeleton inside. The Kid just ran as hard as he could hearing the quick steps behind him that included a sickly laughter. ¡°I WISH I KNEW HOW TO USE A SWORD!¡± he cried out turning a corner disappearing into the darkness.
There second day in Royal Road ended where it began, with the group gathered back together sitting on whatever was handy as they talked about the things they saw after they''d split up. This evening was to be a more thorough search of the city and its attractions. Once back together they compiled all their maps producing a more detailed and complete map of the city. Kenshi even had information on the knights training ground which he explained that he was gonna be a knight if it killed him. ¡°I talked to one of the knights that was overseeing the cadets. He said if I got stronger and was able to get sword mastery to beginner level 5 he''d allow me to join the other cadet''s in training.¡±
¡°That''s good new,¡± Casden said. ¡°If you spend all of your off time in the training grounds you should reach that in no time.¡± Kenshi nodded in understanding and agreement. ¡°Anyone else have anything interesting happen to them?¡±
¡°We found a Colosseum,¡± Shade replied. He''d gone out with Gai, Tyden and Chen when they''d separated ¡°There was all this cheering and stuff coming from inside but we didn''t have enough for the entrance fee. Can you believe they want 5 gold just to WATCH!¡±
¡°Me and Tyden are gonna see if we can find another way in next time.¡± No one noticed when one of the other party members looked up in interest.
Chapter 3
A week had passed in game time. ? of the time they were forced to remain within the city walls. And Tyden had yet to see the inside of the Colosseum. No matter what he and Shade tried they couldn''t get in. They tried sneaking first but was always turned away by a guard. They''d even tried to get job quests in order to get inside and no one needed anything! There was only one other person with him now. And he had to admit, he was absolutely surprised when she asked once they finished for the day having missed the one before do to sleep. Shade was gone now, off to find his class he said as he walked away whistling.
Now the two of them stood outside the main archway, gazing longingly at the throng of people bustling inside to join the roaring crowd already inside. They exhausted all options but still they refused to give up. Just then their silent musings were interrupted by a cough from behind.
Chen chuckled as the two jumped to their feet and turned around. He was a bit impressed when they instantly assumed defensive positions but he was hard pressed to stifle his laugh as Jessika squeaked while doing so. ¡°What are you two doing out here?¡± he asked looking from the two and the large building now behind them.
¡°We can''t get in,¡± Tyden said turning his eyes back to the building. Jessika nodded her agreement and he could see the utter disappointment in her expression. ¡°We''ve tried everything we could think of and nothing.¡±
Not understanding but seeing how important it was to them he came to a quick decision. ¡°Wait here,¡± he said simply causing confused looks on the teenagers faces as he walked off into the crowd. He was gone for half an hour before he appeared behind them, again startling him with a cough.
¡°Where did you go?¡± Tyden asked once he realized it wasn''t an attack.
¡°There is very little time Tyden so you two listen carefully.¡± After giving the two their instructions while giving Jessika a folded note the pair were off. Chen watched the two run off before he found a nearby wall to leave against. Once comfortable he pulled a piece of wood and a small knife from his inventory and proceeded to carve.
Tyden came to a sliding halt outside the large doorway of the training grounds. He quickly entered and found his target striking one of the dummies disinterestedly ¡°I need your help,¡± he said without greetings. Casden turned to the speaker with interest A taller figure approached the two youths to listen in. ¡°Master Chen said he found a way for Jessika and me to get into the Colosseum but we need you to do it. We don''t have a lot of time so we gotta go right away.¡±
¡°Master Chen?¡± Nick asked before Casden could.
¡°Yeah I''ve been going to his dojo for about three months. When I told him about what we were doing here he refused to let me come unless he could come as my chaperon and continue my training in here.¡±
Now suspicious Casden had to ask, ¡°What''s this about? I''m not gonna fight you?¡± This statement definitely caused surprise in the older of the trio.
¡°HA! HA! HA!¡± Tyden bellowed drawing not a few eyes toward him. ¡°No matter WHAT this guy thinks,¡± he said turning a thumb to nick. ¡°I''m not dumb enough to want that. Just come with me please, me and you are cool OK! I was wrong man, I know that and I wanna leave all that in the past?¡± this last was obviously a question as he reached his large hand/paws out for a hand shake.
Casden looked Tyden directly in the eye searching for something and not finding it. He grasped the offered paw firmly shaking it briefly before replying ¡°Let''s go.¡±
Nick followed the two as they ran out of the training center and headed toward the Colosseum To say he was confused by what the two said would be an understatement. He was soon standing beside Chen watching as the two boys stood talking a bit away, Tyden pointing at various things on the Colosseum and surrounding courtyard. ¡°So what''s the plan Mr. Chen?¡± he asked with a nod of his head in greeting.
¡°Just Chen please, I believe we are both here for similar reasons. As to the plan, they are going to fight though they do not know it.¡±
Chuckles from the older man greeted his ears as he regained his composure from the shock of hearing that Chen had entered his own son into a fight. ¡°I''m not sure that''s a good idea. My son isn''t exactly a fighter. I sent him to a martial arts school 5 years ago. The teachers all say he''s doing well but he''s constantly getting harassed at school and attacked by bullies. He''s come home more than a few times with black eyes but won''t talk about how he got them or who gave them to him.¡±
This was a major sore point for nick. Getting his hands dirty as some say wasn''t a big deal to him. He''d entered the Army at 18, worked hard at his job, got married to a beautiful woman and had two kids. His oldest, a girl was in her freshman year of college and seemed to be doing well. She''d only called him once for money so far and that was to replace a blown tire. He wasn''t surprised when he received a check for the same amount in the mail 3 weeks later. That check was marked void before he shredded it like he''d done all the others. She had a thing about owing people money even him, though she knew by now he wouldn''t cash it he also knew the money to cover each and every check she''d ever wrote him sat in that account. She had a nice little savings for such a young female.
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His son though, as much as he loved him, he just didn''t understand him! All he did was read, play video games some strange board game where they play out stories they makeup themselves. He listened in one day, standing outside an open doorway but he had to walk away shaking his head in search of a much needed aspirin when they got to what was supposed to be the action. The numbers and math that were being thrown around made his head spin. At that moment he realized for the first time he''d born a NERD! The very idea made him not only laugh, but down an entire bottle of beer before sitting down on the couch to contemplate what he was going to do now.
The next day he knocked on his sons door. ¡°Hey you got a minute?¡± His son was staring at his computer playing one of his games when he''d entered.
¡°One second dad, I''m in the middle of a boss fight but it''s almost dead.¡± He wasn''t upset at this as his son had explained the difference between a regular fight and a boss fight. That the boss fights were rare and usually a once a month thing. How if they didn''t kill it now the next group might before they managed to get another turn. It was the only time he didn''t immediately give him his attention so Nick had no problems waiting. 3 minutes later his son was telling his friends to wait a bit and he turned around. ¡°What''s up?¡±
Nick really hadn''t thought this out as well as he had no idea how to start this. ¡°Um...I know we don''t have a lot of the same interests but there is something that I want you to do for me.¡± Seeing that he had his son''s attention he carried on. ¡°I found a Martial Arts school near here that is accepting students. What do you think about learning karate?¡± He could see a mixture of confusion at where this came from but not a little excitement at learning martial arts. He WAS a young boy, so the chance to do some of the things he''d seen in movies appealed to him very much. ¡°I''ll tell you what, Give it six months. At that time you can keep going or not, I''ll leave that decision up to you but either way I''ll get you that new computer you''ve been asking for. That sound like a plan?¡± He''d frowned when he realized he didn''t seem to have a choice but that quickly disappeared after hearing there was a chance it wouldn''t last forever. Nick new he''d won when the smile bloomed on his sons face before he stood and stuck out his hand.
¡°Deal!¡±
Nick shook the pro-offered hand firmly clasping sin son firmly on the shoulder with a smile. ¡°Glad we could have this talk,¡± he said before leaving. His son had resumed his seat at his computer and informed his friends that he was back. Just before leaving earshot he heard over his sons tiny speakers.
¡°Your dad is so cool.¡±
¡°Yeah. Yeah he is.¡±
Nick was brought back to the here and now when Jessika came running at full speed. If it wasn''t for Tyden''s strong arm she''d probably have run right by them. She was huffing and puffing for breathe with her hands on her knees.
¡°I...I, I got it,¡± she finally wheezed.
He nodded before replying, ¡°good, good child. Now, as soon as Ms. Jessika catches her breath you will all follow me. It wasn''t long before she rejoined them at a more vertical position and they followed the elderly Asian as he walked through the crowded streets.
Sorry folks but had to cut this chapter short as of right now i''m at 15 pages and the others have been like 3 or 4. Now however, we are getting into the back stories of the characters. I didn''t want to do a Prologue with so many people cause it would''ve been over 60 pages. Not to worry their back stories are already done and will just be added in as the story progresses and the scenes focus more and more on individuals. Today is Nick''s turn and next should be Tyden. Followed by Jessika and Casden though I haven''t chosen who to do first. And if you haven''t figured it out yet there is a fight coming but I need some feedback. please vote for solo fights or if they should battle as a group. I have a rough for either so your not gonna stress me by choosing so pick the one that you REALLY want to see.
And please leave some feedback! Can''t get better if I don''t know how you feel.
Frosty563
P.S. Thank you to all those who stopped by!
Chapter 4
He approached a well dressed man and began conversing just out of ear shot. Nick however did notice how the cat ears peaking out of the platinum blonde hair atop his head swivel toward the two men. He also didn''t miss the small twitch of the lips that bloomed into a huge smile that showed off his impressive feline teeth. But, before he could ask what he''d obviously overheard the answer presented itself.
¡°Well, well, well! What do we have here?!?¡± The well dressed man spoke with a surprisingly booming voice. ¡°Are these the lads you were telling me about?¡± he asked Chen gesturing at the kids. ¡°They don''t look like much.¡±
¡°Not to worry Mr. Henon, I have full confidence in this group,¡± Chen said.
¡°Well then, let''s take a look!¡± the man practically yelled. He soon stood before Jessika. ¡°This little thing''s nothing but skin and bones! Just look at this arm! It''s practically a noodle!¡± He had a hold of Jessika''s hand and was waving it up and down in a way that made it actually LOOK like a wet noodle.
¡°And this one. Why this has got to be the skinniest monk I''ve ever seen! He probably can''t break wind let alone a board!¡± Nick almost stepped forward when he grabbed his son''s arm and held it like he was making a muscle He''d even pulled his sleeve up to the shoulder and it was obvious that his martial art''s training hadn''t been focusing on strengthening.
¡°WELL! Now what pray tell are you?¡± He asked now in front of Tyden. Tyden wasn''t overly tall 6''1¡± maybe even 6''2¡± but, the man had to crane his neck to see his face. And then the strangest thing happened. The man started darting here and there, always mumbling and always hanging from some part of Tyden''s body. Who put up with it until the man grabbed his tail. Tyden''s tail was pretty long, colored black like the rest of his fur, poked out of a small hole in the back of his pants. It was about as thick as a silver dollar and waved and curled as if it had a mind of it''s own. But when Mr. Henon laid hands on it Tyden''s arm streaked out grabbing the man by the scruff of his shirt and lifted him like a child to the surprise of all his friends. Without waver he swung the man back to his front before lowering him enough for him to put his feet on the ground.
¡°I''d appreciate it if you didn''t touch the tail. Racial quirk, I''m sure you understand?¡±
¡°Quite...Quite,¡± He said dusting at his clothing as if nothing happened. ¡°cough*¡±
¡°I think you can see that our original terms are extremely fair, am I right?¡±
¡°Yes yes, very fair! Very fair indeed! Now, everyone follow me, we don''t have a lot of time left before it begins.¡±
¡°Begins? What''s about to begin?¡± Jessika asked confused by what everything going on around her.
¡°The fight''s of course! And with this big guy we can''t loose!¡± Mr Henon said pumping a fist into the air in his excitement!
They entered through a side archway blocked by eight guards, down a long stone hallway and into a large room. The room was bustling with loud talking and hurried action. There were dozen of fighters of all classes and races. There was even an Orc over in the far corner. The man went to a table along the left side and after dropping a sack of coins started writing on a piece of paper. Nick and Chen at his sides. The kids however were focused on the hustle and bustle going on around them. Casden could see a monk off in the distance shadow boxing and Tyden could see a fighter sitting nearby sharpening his sword. Jessika could only watch in awe at all the powerful looking women! She wasn''t into girls or anything but she''d secretly wanted to be one of those warrior women. And now she was gonna be in a FIGHT! A real FIGHT! She was so excited her blood was boiling and also TERRIFIED! I''m gonna DIE! She kept chanting in her mind. But before she could dwell on it for to long Mr. Chen was back.
¡°OK kids, here''s the deal. You are being given a chance to fight in this month''s Newcomer challenge. These are three on three contests. You three vs three monsters of appropriate strengths. First side to loose all fighters looses, it''s as simple as that. You don''t get any experience as you are still in the lock down but you''ll get a bonus in the amount of Fame you gain, you''ll also keep any gains in Skills you might gain. There is also a matter of the prize, 5 gold.¡± This was an unheard of amount for the group. There quests netted them very little experience and not much more coin. 60 coppers was the average with a single silver being the highest paid one yet. And they realized those were high numbers compared to most beginners and they had free lodging to boot! ¡°Also, if you put on a good show the fans have been known to throw money down into the arena and you get to keep that as well.¡± That was just icing on the cake to most but, Casden had a concerned look on his face.
¡°Master Chen,¡± he began but was cut off.
¡°We''ll talk in a moment Casden, but first. Jessika, could you please give Casden and Tyden their packages and go ahead and get yours equipped as well.¡± Jessika followed these orders and was surprised when they were equipped.
¡°Hey! These are the clothes I made!¡± She cried out drawing several stares from nearby players. Not a few whispered compliments were heard by her. Casden and Tyden could only smile at the exuberant look her face.
Casden took in his outfit and almost burst out laughing cause he recognized the design right off. ¡°I''d have never pegged you for an anime fan Jess!¡± He was wearing green pants and long sleeve shirt with a red sash and Orange colored leggings over blue open-toed boots. He was dressed as the raging beast and he had to admit to himself that he looked impressive as he looked down to see their school''s mascot engraved in the shiny metal plate at his waist.
While Casden''s clothes were made of clothe Tyden''s was made of thick leather that had been dyed black. The pants stopped just short of the knees making it difficult to tell where the pants ended and the legs began. He also wore a black leather vest over a white shirt that was also embroidered with the schools logo.
Jessika then stood before them in black leather boots with what appeared to be black stockings that stopped just below the knee. She also wore a pastel blue knee length accordion-pleated skirt with a tan sleeveless sweater over a short sleeve white shirt. Their schools mascot of a Valkyrie was also boldly stitched on her chest.
¡°Jess, these are amazing! I didn''t realize you wee so good at this. If I emailed you some pictures could you make those styles in here?¡± Casden was feeling pretty good bouncing on his toes a little while wearing the new clothes. They were little better than beginner gear, but their was just something about wearing these clothes that was just getting to him.
¡°Yeah, I copy designs from magazines all the time! People don''t know, but I make most of my own clothes!¡±
¡°Really! That is surprising.¡± Casden was impressed. She wasn''t into the whole in crowd so he knew her pretty well. Well if you consider how well any NERD could know a GIRL. ¡°At least your clothes don''t look stupid on you Tyden.¡±
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Tyden laughed before replying. ¡°Don''t need more than shorts and a vest when you''re a were-cat! Long pants and sleeves just get caught in the claws.¡± he said as if he''d repeated that phrase a thousand times.
¡°I''ve been meaning to ask you but what''s with the look? I''ve been all over Royal Road and I''ve never seen a were-cat that looks like you.¡±
¡°Well that''s cause I''m not LIKE any were-cat from this game.¡±
¡°You''ll have to explain that,¡± Casden said with a squint.
¡°The short of it is I convinced the lady at the character creation part to let me do mine based on my favorite fiction character.¡±
¡°Oh man! I can''t believe I didn''t think of that!¡± Casden exclaimed with a look of utter disbelief.
The trio were talking together quietly when the adults rejoined them. ¡°OK guys you''re up next!¡± Mr. Henon bellowed causing the children to jump slightly at the outburst.
¡°We''re going over to that entry way to wait for our turn. When the doors open just step on through and follow the directions on the other side.¡± Chen said motioning the group in that direction. At seeing Casden''s look of concern he motioned him away from the others also calling Nick to join them.
¡°What''s wrong son?¡± Nick asked also noticing his son''s expression.
¡°Your son is concerned that his actions in this game will reflect in the real world.¡± Chen answered instead. ¡°I''ve spoken to your teacher Casden,¡± this drew a surprised look the boy. ¡°He gave me a message I was to give to you if this situation came up.¡±
¡°What did he say?¡± Casden asked with a gulp.
¡°He said, and I quote, ''The rules of the dojo do not exist in a world that doesn''t exist. And you are an idiot for even considering it. And as punishment for your lack of intelligence, you will show the entire dojo a video of your first battle. And you will be rewarded for a good show.¡± at the last Casden visibly flinched. ¡°Do you have any more worries?¡±
¡°No sir,¡± Casden said still frowning at the mention of show and reward. ¡°You''ll be telling him about this fight then?¡± it was a long shot but he had to try.
With a chuckle Chen replied simply, ¡°I think things will go much smoother for you if it doesn''t have to.¡±
''Meaning, it''d probably be safer if I told him,'' Casden thought to himself.
¡°Let''s wait with the others your turn should be coming up soon.¡± No sooner than he said that a loud gong was heard followed by the roar of the crowd. Much louder than what had been drifting through the thick stone walls, floor and ceiling. It went on for a few seconds, the the doors opened and they hurried through.
¡°Let''s go up to the owner''s booth and watch the action!¡± Mr. Henon called over his shoulder as he approached a set of stone steps. Nick and Chen simply followed. They entered into a stone room that overlooked the Colosseum floor. It was a large room with a balcony to watch the fights from. Two hundred people could easily fit here yet there were no more than thirty currently in attendance. The two men ordered dwarven beer for themselves before heading out to the balcony to watch the up coming fight.
¡°You think they''ll be OK?¡±
Chen heard a twinge of concern in Nick''s voice and decided not to let the man go on with any more illusions ¡°Have you ever been to one of your sons classes?¡±
surprised by the question caused Nick to pause a moment before replying, ¡°I did at the beginning but he asked me not to come after maybe the third or fourth class. He told me he felt embarrassed having his dad watch him take karate and I couldn''t really fault him for that so I just found something to do while he was in class, but after the first couple of months he started walking to class so I never went near the place unless I drove him cause the weather was bad.¡± After saying it aloud he realized how long it''d been since he''d seen his son actually practice. What belt was he? Did they even have belts? It kinda stung a little at his fatherly pride. He''d make a point for spending some more time with his son both in game and out. Maybe he''d give that board game another try. Feeling the headache returning just from thinking about it he decided THAT wasn''t going to happen.
¡°Your son is an advanced user of multiple forms of martial arts. You don''t need to worry about your sons safety. He is quite capable of protecting himself.¡±
¡°But,¡± Nick was outright confused. ¡°He comes home with bruises and busted lips. If he''s good at fighting then why is he still being bullied?¡±
¡°Bullied!¡± Chen exclaimed. ¡°I doubt anyone would be stupid enough to bully him now, He probably got those bruises from his training.¡±
¡°If that''s so, why hasn''t he said anything to me?¡±
¡°Do you know anything about the history between Tyden and your son?¡± Chen asked taking a drink of his beer as he leaned over the rail at the action bellow. There were two people alone in the center of the open field of hard pact dirt. At Nick''s negative he explained. ¡°About a year ago, Tyden was one of those boys that picked on your son.¡±
Chen didn''t miss the way his back stiffened. ¡°One day, your son over hears Tyden talking about another student in their class. What was said bothered your son so much that he confronted him right then in front of several other boys. Of course Tyden couldn''t back down after being challenged so they started fighting. It didn''t exactly go the way he figured it would go,¡± he said with a chuckle taking another drag from his beer. ¡°Casden literally destroyed him that day. You should have seen him 5 days later when he came storming into the dojo demanding someone teach him how to fight. Poor kid was covered in bruises from head to toe. Your son backed Tyden into a wall and then systematically beat him down.¡±
Nick was simply flabbergasted Never could he imagine his son doing anything like what he''d just heard.
¡°Your son doesn''t get bullied in school anymore Nick. There were at least 3 other boys watching the whole thing. Your son was worried because after that his teacher forbid him from using martial arts outside of the dojo unless it was in defense of life. Otherwise he wouldn''t be allowed back and no other school would take him.¡±
Nick was surprised at the seriousness in which he spoke. He completely agreed with how it was handled but was a little upset he didn''t know anything about it. Then something else flash through his thoughts. ¡°What did you mean when you said show?¡±
Chen chuckled at the sudden question. Remembering asking the same thing to Master Yim. ¡°I don''t want to ruin the surprise! Believe me, any preconceptions you may still have about your son will be gone after this.¡± and with that they announced the next match.
Chapter 5
The crowd roared their approval as the three newcomers took position in the center of the arena floor. The crowd cheered when the girls name was given and she gave a small flourish with her rapier. And when the slim lad in all green did a back flip and a wave right where he stood the peopled cheered louder. And when the funny looking fellow with the tail roared loud for the crowd, startling even his own friends, the thousands and thousands of people went nuts. They''d heard that the final newcomer fight would feature a new type of monster to the Colosseum The group scheduled for the last match apparently discovered what kind of monsters they were and forfeited the match, causing them to be bared from further entries and a massive loss of Fame. And from the confident looks on these adventurers faces they would put on a great show. The crowd was now stomping their feet as the iron gate on the far side of the newcomers now rose.
¡°By the way, what level are you guys?¡± Casden asked, while equipping his weapons with a few strokes of the menu panel. The others were doing the same, Tyden''s Great-sword in a sheath across his back and a rapier and small dagger on the hip and lower back of Jessika. Who also sent them an invite and was also whispering to Kaylie, telling her what was going on since Dura was looking for her. They excepted and her chart appeared before their eyes. They quickly did the same for theirs before looking over the various information.
| Status Window |
| Name: | Casden | Alignment: | Neutral |
| Level: | 2 | Class: | ?? |
| Race: | Human | Gender: | Male |
| Titles |
| ?? |
| Fame: | 5 | Infamy: | 0 |
| - |
| Health: | 110 | Mana: | 100 |
| Stamina: | 20 | Vitality: | 10 |
| - |
| Strength: | 16 | Agility: | 18 |
| Intelligence: | 10 | Wisdom: | 10 |
| Leadership: | 0 | Dexterity: | 17 |
| Status Window |
| Name: | Tyden | Alignment: | Neutral |
| Level: | 3 | Class: | ?? |
| Race: | Were-cat | Gender: | Male |
| Titles |
| ?? |
| Fame: | 13 | Infamy: | 5 |
| - |
| Health: | 133 | Mana: | 100 |
| Stamina: | 105 | Vitality: | 11 |
| - |
| Strength: | 37 | Agility: | 15 |
| Intelligence: | 10 | Wisdom: | 10 |
| Leadership: | 0 | Dexterity: | 7 |
| Status Window |
| Name: | Jessika | Alignment: | Neutral |
| Level: | 10 | Class: | Apprentice |
| Race: | Human | Gender: | Female |
| Titles |
| ?? |
| Fame: | 27 | Infamy: | 0 |
| - |
| Health: | 190 | Mana: | 145 |
| Stamina: | 75 | Vitality: | 15 |
| - |
| Strength: | 15 | Agility: | 51 |
| Intelligence: | 10 | Wisdom: | 17 |
| Leadership: | 0 | Dexterity: | 47 |
When the two boys just stared at her incredulously she blushed. ¡°What!? I get experience for designing and creating clothes. Since all I''m doing right now is coping stuff I''ve already done before I got some levels. Sheesh!¡± she said ignoring them now giving her rapier a flourish to loosen her arm. She flinched when the crowd started screaming louder. It was then that they realized they were being introduced. When Casden her his name he decided to do a standing back-flip and then waved at the crowd. And when Tyden heard his name he decided to go big or go home. He spread his feet, lowering his body toward the ground. Spreading his arms out showing off his dangerously sharp claws he roared his challenge. At this the crowd went wild, but just under the den the distinct sounds of a gate being raised was heard by the fighters.
Nick''s eyes were focused solely on the rising gate wondering what would emerge from the darkness. The appearance of Mr. Henon with his booming voice didn''t distract him from the three creatures that came rushing out. Three Lizards of various size, all walking on two legs caught sight of the kids immediately and with a roar from the last to exit they started running toward them.
¡°I don''t believe it!¡± Mr. Henon''s surprise finally managed to break through his focus. ¡°Those are Lizard-folk, they inhabit the swamps of southern Grapass. The smaller one is a Greenscale darter and the one with the spear is a Greenscale hunter.¡±
¡°And the big one?¡± Chen asked.
¡°That''s a Blackscale bruiser. Their strength is enormous!¡± Nick frowned at this bit of news. Especially when Casden and Jessika separated from Tyden who himself was running right for the Blackscale bruiser. It seemed that that Casden had chosen to face the hunter while Jessika fought the smallest of the three.
¡°Split up!¡± Tyden yelled as the trio answered the lizards call to battle by advancing toward them. ¡°I got the big one,¡± he said with a feral grin just loud enough for the others to hear him. Casden who was on Tyden''s left angled away drawing the attention of the spear-wielder while Jessika went right bringing the darter her way.
As Tyden closed the gap on his lumbering opponent he took in as many details as he could. The creature before him had black scales and wore a tattered loin cloth. It had a long meaty tail that he reminded himself was probably used as a weapon. It carried a massive stone club in it''s hands that sported short claws of their own. It''s eyes black and lifeless and it''s razor sharp teeth dripped drool and saliva. Without breaking his stride, in a single smooth motion, Tyden drew his sword and met his enemy head on. The two beings, being the largest of their respective groups chose to start the battle with an overwhelming display of strength and both chose to swing their weapons with all their night. When their weapons collided between them, forcing the two to come to instant stops the sound of the clash reverberated throughout the Colosseum bring both shock and amazement to the crowd at the power being displayed before them.
The creatures surprise at it''s attack being halted lasted but moments before it spun it''s massive body around bringing it''s long thick tail slamming down where Tyden had just been standing. Having jumped clear of the attack Tyden then darted in, attempting to strike at the Lizards exposed back which spun at the last moment bring it''s club forth to block his attack.
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Casden had taken a moment to read the monsters name to know that it was a Greenscale hunter. Like the other two it had a tail though his seems to be the longest. It had three fins growing out the top of it''s head progressively getting larger as they went. It carried a long-spear in it''s left hand and a medium sized leather shield in the other and eyed him with killer intent. Once close enough it jabbed it''s spear at Casden whom side stepped it easily to the outside but had to duck quickly when the beast swung the spear out wide. Casden seeing an opening lunged inside aiming a punch at the monsters torso only to be met by the creatures leather shield which absorbed the impact. Though he did manage to force the creature to take several steps back.
Nick was amazed at the ability being displayed before him. The power that Tyden displayed was downright incredible. And the speed at which his son moved was dazzling. Worry surged through him when the hunter stabbed at his son with it''s spear but it was avoided fluidly and the following swipe was avoided as well. He saw the moment of hesitation in his son''s attack which resulted in it being blocked. Before he knew what was happening his voice thundered over all others.
Casden was waiting for his opponent to make the next move. He knew he''d missed a chance for winning the initial clash and he vowed not to make that mistake again. He was focusing on his breathing, attempting to remain calm and focused, just as his teacher had taught him. Then over the roar of the crowd he heard something he thought he''d never hear from his father.
¡°COME ON SON! KICK HIS ASS!¡± and for some reason that and what Master Chen said earlier triggered a memory.
¡°Casden, I know you want to embody the teachings of Tai Chi, but sometimes Casden, sometimes, you just gotta be you OK? When that time comes, give''m a good show!¡± And with that Casden watched his Master walk away laughing while jumping back and forth on his toes shadow boxing and screaming at the top of his lungs.
Casden forgot about breathing, he forgot about focusing he forgot about the crowd. Their were only two things he needed to worry about. The Greenscale hunter before him, whom was readying himself for another charge slamming it''s long tail on the ground in a display of anger and might. The other was his father. Who for the first time was watching him fight and was actually cheering him on, well he was going to give him a show. With a lopsided grin and a flick of the nose with his thumb he started bouncing on the balls of his feet bringing his fists up in a ready position
With a ¡°WOOaahh!¡± reminiscent of the great Bruce lee he dashed forward. Surprised the lizard stabbed forward but once again Casden dodged. This time to the inside, he was met with the lizards shield who was attempting to bash him with it. He grabbed hold of the shield, and with a twist of the hip he sent the monster over his shoulder to slam into the hard ground. It was quickly on its feet again and the two were advancing together. This time when the lizard stabbed forward he dodged to the outside. Grabbing hold of the spear, simultaneously lifting his left leg and draping it over the spear he used it and his grip to leverage his body over the spear allowing him to bring his foot into range of its face. And with a sharp kick the monster was sent flying to the side only to slide to a halt several paces away.
Before it could right itself Casden was on the attack. He rained blow after blow down on his opponent, whittling it''s life down. A low swing of it''s tail knocked Casden off his feet however and a hit from its shield created some distance between the two. Casden reached down to his thigh taking hold of his weapon. As the hunter took a step forward and drew back it''s spear in preparation of a lung the green clothed fighter attacked. Stepping forward in a sudden move, a white streak arced forward striking the hunter in the face with a scream and a smack which caused the angry creature to pause.
Nick was unsure what just happened. Casden''s arm reached out, his wrist flicked and the creature was struck. The battle was going totally different than what he expected. His sons forceful and sure movements, accented by sharp war cries struck his foe time and time again while dodging multiple attacks. But the last attack from his son was to fast to follow. And as the creature stepped forward once again a white streak once again shot forward stopping his movement. His son ducked in low and advanced rapidly. White streaks could be seen extending from his body striking various parts of the monsters body. Starting at the ankles and traveling up the body. A strike to the inside of the wrist forced the spear out wide and before the lizard could bring its shield up for protection, Casden struck.
Things weren''t looking so good for Tyden. He''d lost his sword a moment ago, when the vibration from the impact of these two large beings was just to much for him and he''d lost his grip. Master Chen was so going to punish him for that one. He did manage to disarm the black scaled beast shortly after and now the two were going at it with tooth and nails. Blocking the strength of the brute was out of the question so he was forced to dodge and counter with swipes of his extended claws. The monster even used it''s massive tail to strike at his foe but again Tyden was on the look out, and when the tail came swinging around, Tyden dropped low to the ground and was out of the monsters sight. When it faced forward once again it froze for a criticel moment when the strange cat like creature was no longer in it''s sight. With a roar of pain it whirled around to face Tyden again after being struck in the back multiple times. Its health was now dangerously low and it closed the distance with the were-cat in a flash. The two locked hands and test of strength ensued. Tyden''s strength grew at a much faster rate due to his were-cat race but he was still not strong enough to resist the push from the larger animal for long. Realizing his mistake in locking with the monster Tyden thought desperately for a way out.
Casden was having the time of his life. The Greenscale hunter before him had lost his shield. Now it stood holding it''s spear, it''s spirit crushed by the skilled human before it. It''s breathing heavy, bruises dotted random parts of it''s body. Casden reached down to his left thigh, grabbing the second pair of weapons their before bringing them up and showing them to his adversary. It''s eyes darted momentarily to the two sticks with the this chain hanging from them. They stung when they struck and it''s health was was very low. It could sense that it had enough for one attack and one attack only. Taking it''s spear it both hands it charged at Casden in one last desperate attempt to end his life.
There was a loud crack as the spear was turned wide by the nunchaku held in his left hand in an across the body strike. He stepped in and before the hunter could lash out with a clawed hand or bash from its long tail Casden took one step forward, planted his right foot firmly on the ground, and did a split kick to the creatures chin that stunned it. Sensing the end Casden stepped forward and began attacking with both pair of nunchaku''s. Worrying that the monster would regain it''s senses before he''d finished it he increased his speed even more. And more. And more, until his arms were a blur and the only confirmation the crowd had that the attacks were succeeding were the occasional yips and whoops from the fighter and the distinct sounds of wood smacking scales repeatedly. Finally the creature disappeared in a cloud of pixelating dust and Casden was left alone, breathing heavily he looked around to see how the others were doing.
Tyden was loosing the battle for strength. The hulking brute he''d locked hands with was slowly pushing his back. Tyden''s tail struck something on the ground and he realized immediately that it was the beast''s stone club. Realizing that time had run out a distant memory touched his thoughts. Remembering the move from his favorite online story he released the tension in his back, allowing the monster to rush over him when the resistance from his pushing disappeared. Tyden''s head impacted the dirt behind his ankles as the bruiser soared over him, until he reached out grabbing it''s wrist as it sailed over. Tyden pulled on it''s wrist to stop it''s motion, with a push of his hips, Tyden walked over his head as he pushed off with his other hand curving through the air gracefully just managing to put his feet against the Blackscale''s stomach. The creatures breath whooshed out of it''s lungs as the Were-cat punched all of his weight down on the black scaled belly, at the same time as it''s impact with the ground, driving his feet into it''s stomach stunning it.
Tyden reached out taking hold of the creatures heavy stone club. Lifting it over his head he brought it down in a mighty chop that caused the monster to blow apart in flashes of color. Breathing heavily he quickly checked to see how Casden was doing only to see him turning in his direction at the same instant. And as they took in the cheer and roar of the crowd they turned in unison to help Jessika if it was needed. What greeted the two was a sight they never thought they''d see in a million years. She was skipping in a circle, a huge smile on her face while holding Tyden''s sword in her left hand. She was waving at the crowd with one hand as she chanted over and over, ¡°I did it, I did it!¡± The thing was very few people saw her fight, writing her small stature off as a loss. As a matter of fact only three beings saw what happened during her fight. One was Chen, win or loose he wasn''t really worried for the boys, Jessika however he was concerned for. But after watching her in action he decided he''d work with her as well. ¡°She has much potential.¡±The other two sat atop the Colosseum, their beady eyes darting here and there taking in all the action down below. And once the fighting was over they extended their wings and the large black ravens were carried away by large feathered wings.