Calandra
Daemon
Sleeper
Game Over.
Posts: 77
|
Post by Calandra on Aug 15, 2010 17:44:57 GMT -8
Calandra pursed her lips, thinking hard. All this talk of Ourian's foolishness reminded her of the lack of a strongest fighter. Gabriel's meaningful look only added to this. Was this boy truly as good as he seemed, or only lucky?
"I'm sure this is what we are all thinking of right now." She gestured to Loki, the daemon lord, and herself, "But we need a new general. The strongest fighter's post has been vacant for far too long."
Calandra studied Rio carefully, "If your talk and appearance are anything to go off of, then you could be a very clear candidate for his job." the daemoness stood and dumped Loki, brushing her clothes off briskly. "Does this interest you?"
Loki glared up at his companion irritably, not having enjoyed losing his spot. "This Kidlet the strongest fighter? You sure about that? He looks kinda," Loki poked Rio's arm, "Scrawny."
"Wait." Loki said, holding his paws out for balance as much a dramatic effect, "I'm scrawny. Bah, appearance is nothing, carry on. Just don't kill him if he accepts the challenge" The wisp let himself sink to the ground in an undignified heap before moving to resume his place around Gabriel's shoulders.
Calandra shook her head as she surpressed a smile. "That pretty much sums it up." She turned to Rio, "If you are interested then you will have a quick duel with either Gabriel or myself to determine your skill. What say you?"
|
|
|
Post by Gabriel Jhaedaes Os Tar on Aug 16, 2010 3:54:24 GMT -8
Perfect; Calandra had not only gotten his hint, she seemed to agree with Gabriel that Rio had potential. It was a lot of pressure and a lot of responsibility for one so young, but Rio had experience and maturity beyond his years. Gabriel was good at reading people - he was rarely wrong about these things. Assuming, of course, that Rio was interested. The positions of Deputy and Strongest Fighter were highly sought after and honoured by the Daemons; it was a choice to fill one, not a job. It didn't pay and it certainly wasn't without risks, but it did offer status and pride. And after all, what did the Daemons value more than pride?
Gabriel climbed smoothly to his feet, the movement graceful enough that he didn't dislodge Loki who no doubt liked the Daemon Lord's higher than average body heat. "Yes; this is completely up to you, understand. The position is dangerous, can be challenged by another at any time, and requires you to spend some time with Calandra and I - although Daemon organisation allows plenty of time for individual travel and choices too. But if you can prove yourself and you wish to accept the position you will become one of the most important Daemons in Litharia, second only to myself and Cal."
Gabriel watched Rio closely for a reaction - he was sure he was right about the Daemon's abilities and motivations, but whether he felt ready for the challenge so soon after leaving Dreamland was another matter entirely. "And of course you may choose who to duel, if you do accept. Either of us will be happy to oblige." Calandra would be a better choice to demonstrate pure fighting ability but if Rio did decide on Gabriel, he'd make some attempt to limit his use of bardic influence. It wouldn't be entirely removed - centuries of refining his talents meant bardic magic was woven into the very fibres of Gabriel's being - but he could at least leave off with the deliberate hypnotism of his words and eyes.[/font]
|
|
Rio
Daemon
Sleeper
Yes, sir?
Posts: 51
|
Post by Rio on Aug 16, 2010 23:25:15 GMT -8
"But we need a new general. The strongest fighter's post has been vacant for far too long."
A new general? Strongest fighter? Rio had heard snippets of conversation back in Dreamland about the strongest fighter position. Some were uneasy about this, some were too chicken to leave the Dreamlands to challenge the post, while others condemned the daemon lord for leaving it open for this long. He himself did not know enough about daemon politics to judge the situation for himself, but now that the two daemons had elaborated on the job of strongest fighter, he wasn't so sure that he was the person for the job. His strength merely lay in judging the opponent and his moves, everything about his technique to take him down.
The mammalian daemon barely flinched as Loki nudged him with a paw. The creature seemed to deem him "scrawny". Rio was significantly slimmer than the two older daemons, but he was pretty sure that he would have a chance at victory against them. Though they were daemon lord and deputy, the strongest daemons, they were still daemons that he could defeat--not kill for he had no wish to take their places. Seen simply like that, the impending sense of uncertainty was gone; he had been challenged, he would not back down from a challenge without a compensation challenge. He had nothing to lose, but wasn't sure if he would be any use to the daemon lord. However, if Gabriel did wish so (which he and Calandra seemed to) he would oblige.
"... Just don't kill him if he accepts the challenge"
Rio looked at Loki, mildly surprised by what the wisp implied. Don't kill him? Well, now that the wish was implied, this wouldn't be a death-match as all his other matches. Whether this was a good thing or not, he was unsure. It seemed like they all wanted him to comply, which he would gladly, and that was exactly what he did. Inclining his head, he said, "Gladly," more for the challenge than the position. This would be his first duel outside of the Dreamlands and from the moment that he had passed through the portal, he could tell that some of his former glory had been stripped away. No matter, if Gabriel and Calandra could live with it, so could he. "I will take either on, if need be, both." He left the choice to them, for they were the ones who had issued the challenge. Even now, Rio was still not used to making choices for himself.
|
|
Calandra
Daemon
Sleeper
Game Over.
Posts: 77
|
Post by Calandra on Aug 25, 2010 15:26:57 GMT -8
Wonderful, so she had guessed Gabriel's intentions correctly. The Avian smiled slightly as Loki started to snore from his perch, obviously uninterested by the events unfolding. "Well Rio, since you have no preference, I supposed it is up to Gabriel."
Calandra crossed her arms and leaned comfortably against the wall, watching the others for a reaction. This could very well be a historical event for multiple reasons. Not only would they obtain a fill for the empty slot that had been for so many years, but she was quite sure that Rio would be both the youngest and only Mammalian daemon to ever become the Strongest Fighter.
Hmm, they would have to send for someone to put it into the books if Rio succeeded. That could prove an interesting dilemma, though Calandra was fairly certain that Loki could go back and forth. And she did know for a fact that Loki was well-known as wisps went, both for his companionship to the daemon lieutenant and for his actions. Most likely he could either tell them himself or at least get someone to pass the message on.
Calandra ended her ponderings to better watch the boy's reaction. He seemed to be slightly bewildered, but for the most part calm. She let her eyes wander to Gabriel, who seemed to be tentative but thoroughly excited. This could work out very well.
|
|
|
Post by Gabriel Jhaedaes Os Tar on Sept 5, 2010 21:50:39 GMT -8
Gabriel's grin widened slightly as he assessed Rio's reaction - he was controlled, almost emotionless; emotional reaction if he had any were kept carefully under wraps. This wasn't unusual in a Daemon, although Rio seemed unusually self-controlled. It would be a good skill for the Strongest Fighter; open empathy and being easy to read would not prove advantageous in that particular position. In fact, he might even provide a balance for Gabriel and Calandra. Although they too were talented at hiding emotion when it was needed, both were notably passionate, volatile individuals. Calandra was fiercely independent and proud, Gabriel frighteningly tempermental and unpredictable in his moods. The cool, calm facade that Rio put across would no doubt be a welcome change for their subjects after the restless wildness openly put across by their leaders.
All that remained was to finalise the details. Calandra, no doubt, was dying to leapt into the fray as usual, so Gabriel afforded her a brief nod. "Calandra will duel with you; most opponents in Litharia carry a weapon so your prowess against an armed foe is probably the most important consideration." Anyway, no need to disturb the seemingly comfortable Wisp currently draped over his shoulders. If Rio then wished to attempt an unarmed opponent then Gabriel would oblige once Calandra was done.
"Here is as good a place as any, yes? No need to put this off - we've been without someone to fill the position for three decades and it is probably about time someone took it up." Three decades may seem like nothing to the long-lived Daemons but nonetheless Gabriel would not give his people undue reason to question him. Despite appearances to the contrary (what with his efficient and violent nature when questioned) he didn't particularly enjoy having to put disruptors in their place (that is, six feet under).
Still smiling inanely, Gabriel stepped back to watch.
OoC Hehe, I suck at writing fight scenes so you get the fun, Jay. XD[/font]
|
|
Rio
Daemon
Sleeper
Yes, sir?
Posts: 51
|
Post by Rio on Sept 6, 2010 10:31:13 GMT -8
(( Who should win the match? Or what should the general outcome be...? ))
"Well Rio, since you have no preference, I supposed it is up to Gabriel."
Automatically, the mammalian daemon looked to the Daemon Lord for his response. It seemed natural that the one in charge of this all should make decisions, especially regarding others in his presence. That way it would seem neither disrespectful nor unjust to provoke a hostile reaction to such matters. He could already feel his muscles tensing up, adrenaline flowing through him, making him aware to the various aspects of the area that they were in. It was smaller than what he was normally used to, but there were plenty of shadows and grips for him to take advantage of.
"Calandra will duel with you; most opponents in Litharia carry a weapon so your prowess against an armed foe is probably the most important consideration."
The Litharians carried weapons, that meant that unless he was to take advantage of his animal-like qualities, his bow would be next to useless. He would not need it in this battle. His dagger and claws should be enough. An arrow to pierce armor would definitely need more spring than the space here would allow. If he did pierce her armor, however, it could have been fatal and this was not a match to the death. He had to be careful here. He would not kill Calandra. The daemon would surely possess the skills to stop him. If not, there was always Gabriel. He would make sure that he would not do irreparable damage.
Lifting a hand, Rio unbuckled the strap that held the bow and quiver to his back, fully aware that if he did have it on, it could prove as more of an advantage to Calandra. Putting it carefully to the side--all the while alert to any sudden movements from the avian daemon--he looked back up. Gabriel had moved aside to give them space. Good, he would not get hurt. Almost at once, a meditative, calculative state overcame him as he watched Calandra. He could tell that from her eagerness, she would come at him with full force, as if she was dying to let all the pent-up energy from all the disappointing fights beforehand. His dagger was still sheathed, but it was a simple matter to flick it up and defend against any incoming stabs.
|
|
Calandra
Daemon
Sleeper
Game Over.
Posts: 77
|
Post by Calandra on Sept 13, 2010 22:20:11 GMT -8
Loki opened one eye and did his best to look uninterested, but even his superb acting skills could not hide the gleam of interest. Not to mention his comfortable perch was the best seat he could possibly hope for. This match could be the fight of the century.
Granted, it could also be mind numbingly boring, but the wisp was willing to give Rio the benefit of the doubt. And besides, if the boy lived and was talented, then a rematch would surely happen in the future, and rematches were always fun to watch.
Calandra nodded to Gabriel before turning to scan the Mammalian, assessing his position and weaponry. He seemed to realize the danger that a bow would cause in the tunnels and instead chosen to use a dagger. Calandra followed suit.
She pushed herself upright from the wall with the nearly foot long blade swinging comfortably in her hand, smiling slightly from the excitement. Then, without warning she shot forward and swept the knife toward his stomach, a blow that could easily cut up to his collarbone if he did not block.
It was nothing more than a testing move. If the boy could not even stop an attack he knew was coming then offering his the post would be a dangerous mistake.
|
|
|
Post by Gabriel Jhaedaes Os Tar on Sept 14, 2010 1:50:10 GMT -8
Gabriel watched as the two eyed each other up, the adrenaline in the tunnel thick in the air. The atmosphere shifted very rapidly from one of calm, wise welcome to one of tense contemplation; the result of several deadly predators coming into contact. The Daemon Lord followed the moves of both Rio and Calandra with unblinking focus. Firstly, the weight of the Wisp wrapped around his shoulders was barely noticable, both as a result of hidden Daemon strength and because Loki weighed so little, so it could hardly count as a distraction. Secondly, long ago the Daemon Lord had realised that the opportunities to learn were frequent and never-ending.
Calandra's fighting style he knew almost as well as his own, though she frequently updated and revised her routines with skills she learnt on her travels - Gabriel had his suspicions this was as much about keeping him guessing and not becoming complacent around him as it was about becoming as well-rounded as possible. Fair enough. Despite their unusually close bond they each still knew just how dangerous the other would be should complacency be allowed to occur. Rio, however, was completely unfamilar to him. Not only was this a chance to assess the young Mammalian's skills, it was also a chance to familiarise himself with the newcomer just in case they ever did meet under less diplomatic circumstances in the future. Gabriel might be unshakably confident in his own prowess but he was never, ever one to miss an opportunity. Doing so in his position was tantamount to announcing your inadequacy for the job.
So he stood and watched, unreadable, perfectly still, silent. And he learned. The exact angles of attack, the way they assessed each other, the footwork they chose, the speed and character of their movements. He would take in all of this information without ever giving a clue that he would read so much - and perhaps if they were lucky, he'd even wind up with a new Fighter.[/font]
|
|
Rio
Daemon
Sleeper
Yes, sir?
Posts: 51
|
Post by Rio on Sept 20, 2010 10:34:58 GMT -8
At last, Rio caught sight of the deputy's weapon of choice--a blade of about eleven inches. It was a large blade, but smaller than a sword. Almost immediately, Rio could feel the experience radiating off. If a sword was used here, it would impair movement and would definitely be easier to keep track of. Put simply: It was a disadvantage. No one would use such a large blade here, or anyone that had the sense anyways. However, before he had the time to speculate, the avian daemon was a blur hurtling towards him with measured speed. His brain clicked into motion, assessing every part of her attack. From the angle, the blade was aimed upwards, designed to slash him from the midriff up.
It so happened that Rio had seen this move too many times. His blade was still in its sheath--below Calandra's blade. That was good. In a split second, his fingers closed around the blade's hilt, ripping it out to meet the slightly shorter blade, forcing the momentum upwards while shoving his other hand forward. This was not so much of an effective move, even with his claws outstretched as Calandra was armored. However, she had come at him at a worthy pace; it was only natural for a normal being to lose balance. However, this was only a test move. He needed to see how well she recovered from a block and a shove. That was all he needed to know.
Vaguely, he felt the daemon lord's gaze on him. Whether this was a good thing or not, he was unsure. On one hand, he could be using this to assess him honestly or use it for his own personal gains. But judging from Gabriel's personality, it was his race that he thought of the most--not winning individual battles. Loki on the other hand, did not seem so interested. It was as if he was putting on a facade just to keep his reputation. Maybe it was because it was obvious that Calandra would win. Whatever its cause, it was certainly different from Gabriel's expression.
|
|
Calandra
Daemon
Sleeper
Game Over.
Posts: 77
|
Post by Calandra on Sept 21, 2010 16:29:54 GMT -8
Calandra's blade was deflected upward as she had expected. It was a common enough move in the assassin trade and among those fighting for lethality alone, but the boy did move quickly, she had to give him that. In fact, she had spotted his hand barely a split second before the blow connected with her chest, which gave her little time to react.
Luckily enough, the force from his blocking move hadn't been enough to knock the knife from Calandra's hand and it had too much momentum, even as fast as he was, to come back down and catch her after the shove.
The daemoness let her muscles loosen for a moment and then swung back as hard as she could, slamming her hands into the ground as she spun. They impacted soundly and launched her into the air where she kept rolling until she was upright and standing in a wary crouch. A feral grin slowly crossed her face as she let the dagger swing comfortably from her hand. It had been a long time since anyone had made her do a handspring to keep her balance, perhaps this boy did have talent.
On that note, Calandra decided to up the stakes just a tad, drawing another dagger from her other boot. This one wasn't quite as long, maybe half the size of the other, but serrated and deadly-looking, and more than enough to make things interesting. She gripped it in her right hand, carefully positioning it opposite of the blade in her left so that the right pointed forward and the left pointed back.
Originally left-handed, Calandra took a stance to let her use that one with more force. While the daemoness was indeed a lefty, an ambidextrous hold came naturally, something she used to her full advantage during difficult fights or those she wished to end quickly. No doubt Gabriel knew full well by now how much she was anticipating a unique fight. To any who knew her well it would be obvious, but for Rio she may just seem impatient or something of the like.
After studying her opponent's stance, Calandra went for Rio once again, this time with a more difficult strike to block. She leapt forward at least twice as fast as before and swung simultaneously toward his right collarbone and his left upper-arm. Escaping from a move like that would be difficult, though not impossible; through the use of two blades or great speed he could probably block both unscathed, but as it seemed he had only one, injury was likely unless he jumped back in time.
Calandra realized she was testing his reflexes and strength with merciless accuracy, knowing full well that if he couldn't last a few minutes with her or Gabriel then giving him the title would be a serious mistake. Around the same time as that tiny thought, Calandra became aware of Loki and Gabriel's silent surveillance. No doubt the daemon lord was studying her fighting pattern once again, trying to see if it was any different from last time they had fought, and Loki was simply trying to determine the winner. It wasn't, and she didn't know.
Calandra made certain to always keep her fighting style adaptable and ever-changing so that it could not be studied and figured out. Speed and accuracy were always main keys to the styles the avian used, as she had trained for many years to be faster than any opponent, but never had she actually gotten to use that full speed. Instead her endurance was built up so that exhaustion would not be a problem in fights that took a long time. But other than that, Calandra's moves were whatever the situation called for, taking care to not be predictable.
As for Rio's, Calandra could only tell this: that he was trained to make only the moves necessary and he would wait for the perfect opportunity to do so. His surprising strength and impressive speed no doubt contributed to this greatly. The winner for the fight was very much up in the air, especially since it had only just begun.
|
|
|
Post by Gabriel Jhaedaes Os Tar on Sept 22, 2010 19:23:24 GMT -8
Gabriel had always been a good judge of people; sensitive to both the shifting currents of mood and emotion and also the more stable influences of nature and personality. This was a large part of the skill of charisma, after all; while Calandra had spent her time finessing her speed and endurance, Gabriel had focused instead on his natural presence and ability to manipulate people to his own ends. In order to do this one had to be able to read them, thus, the Daemon Lord was unsurprised when Rio rose immediately to the challenged and fully met his expectations.
Fluid, fast, self-assured, strong. To become so proficient at such a young age Rio must have scarcely considered anything but fighting in his short life, Gabriel decided. Indeed the young Daemon lacked the outwardly reactive personality of most Daemons; no doubt this was a product of his upbringing. While it was obviously not an ideal situation for any creature to be raised so singularly focused on violence, now that it was said and done it did provide Gabriel with a unique opportunity - a person to fill the strongest fighter position that had individuality and surprise on his side. No doubt youth and appearance would cause others to misjudge Rio and this could only be to their own detriment. He would make a valuable addition should he choose to pledge his loyalty to Gabriel.
Of course the fight was not over yet, and Gabriel remained still and silent but for the subtle flicker of sharply intelligent teal eyes from one fighter to another. He doubted he was wrong about his early judgement of Rio but he'd give the boy a decent chance to prove his worth - and Calandra a decent chance to work off some pent up energy. And all the while he catalogued their styles and movements into his memory, always available for future reference. Gabriel was nothing if not pedantically thorough in his role as Lord.[/font]
|
|
Rio
Daemon
Sleeper
Yes, sir?
Posts: 51
|
Post by Rio on Sept 25, 2010 0:56:13 GMT -8
If the momentum that Rio had given the daemon deputy was good or not, he could not tell. All he did know was that she slackened a little, before pushing her muscles as she bent backwards. His blade wasn't in a good position at all to be using, leading towards his avoiding Calandra's handspring. He watched as she recuperated, keeping track of the crouch, the grin that exploded, the adrenaline and lust that she had for this battle. Compared to most other opponents, Calandra did have a better sense of balance and movement. However, he was confident within his own abilities to be able to outmatch her own speed. She was taking something out of her boot. What could it be? A throwing knife? As he tensed himself for the next attack, he figured that her arm did not have the momentum or flick it needed to be able to throw a projectile. Not a throwing knife. Instead, it was a deadly looking dagger; one that he had to avoid. Such a blade, though smaller than her initial one, would cut deep and rip out a fair amount of flesh as well. He had seen these blades in use before, but never needed to use them--he had faith in his claws, weapons that were just as deadly, and perhaps even easier to control.
Calandra had positioned this blade in her right hand, switching the dagger to her left. Immediately, he knew that if such a blade was going to be her foremost blade, it would be all the more easier for him to end this match. He didn't think she was stupid enough to make such a mistake. No, she wasn't... her left grip was as natural and controlled as anything else. It was her left that he would be more concerned about. It was too bad she didn't know that he was more used to taking advantage of his opponents by attacking the usually weaker left side. If it was not for his blind right eye, Rio would not have been able to anticipate so well. In fact, it was his movement-oriented eyes that aided him in this. This time, the deputy's speed was even faster than before. The blades were aimed higher up, one small change in angle and it could rip out his throat. He saw no point in blocking such a move, therefore, he had to dodge.
Setting his mind to this and using the advantage of the blades' height, he crouched at the last second, fluid muscles propelling him towards the left--away from the longer blade, which missed him by a bare millimeter. It was a daring move, but he had done it. See, the problem with speed was the momentum that you gathered. Even at a short distance, only the strongest could break out of the momentum without giving themselves a disadvantage. Although the avian daemon wasn't tall, she had the strength and speed as well as the advantage of two blades. Though it was the nature of a cat's to prey upon a bird, a bird of prey could easily take a cat--or be taken by a lion. They had an equal chance of winning, it depended on their play. That being said, at this short a distance, if Calandra was able to up her speed even more, there was no guarantee that he could escape unscathed. She was by far the strongest opponent that he had come across and he no doubt respected her for that. And though he respected her, there was no way that he was going to allow her to take his life. Aided by that thought, he spun around, blade in his hand, aiming to catch her at her side. His left hand was free, ready to tackle anything that she could try to catch him with. Using the bow had made his leg, back and shoulder muscles strong, and using this to his advantage, he struck back; his first daring, really offensive move in this play.
|
|
Calandra
Daemon
Sleeper
Game Over.
Posts: 77
|
Post by Calandra on Sept 26, 2010 9:55:54 GMT -8
Calandra watched the boy dodge with some satisfaction until he ended up partially behind her. She heard the whistle of the wind against his blade and turned hard with her momentum, snapping up her leg into a vicious kick at the last moment. Still the blade managed to meet its mark, tearing a fairly deep line across her upper wing. The daemon let out a snarl of pain as the knife crossed one of the scars from the shrapnel, leaving it wide open and bleeding profusely.
Loki sat up quickly on Gabriel’s shoulders, a startled hiss escaping from his mouth. Undiguised worry showed in his eyes as he tried to make out the damage, but wings tended to bleed quite a bit and it was difficult to tell. “She’ll never be able to fly again if she’s not careful,” Loki said quietly, his teasing tone and wide smile gone for once.
All he could remember was the extensive damage done by the bomb back in the city, and the fact that her wings were still healing and one was broken. Loki hadn’t told her just how bad it had been, and that could prove dangerous.
The wisp clenched his jaw and lay back on Gabriel’s shoulders, no longer bothering to feign indifference. Calandra could take care of herself, and at this point the was nothing he could do until the fight ended anyway.
The avian took a few steps backwards, her grin more dangerous than feral, her teeth obviously longer. The laughter was gone from her eyes now, replaced by cold calculation. That hurt. Her wing was still in no shape to be taking that kind of abuse, and it seemed that Rio had hit it just right to knock it off-kilter again. Calandra cocked her head to the side and glanced to Gabriel and Loki, expression not changing a bit.
She dropped the blades into her red sash and let them hang, then removed her gloves to do the same, revealing her elongated finger nails. She took her wing gently in both hands and craned her neck to survey the damage. It was deep, but actually not as bad as the shrapnel had been, even if it did knock her wing back out of place. The daemoness clenched her teeth and gave her wing a sudden, vicious jerk. The was a small grating sound as the wing popped back into place near the top, and a barely audible sound of pain from Calandra.
She turned back to Rio, unsure and uncaring if she had actually managed to kick him when she dodged, the same dangerous, clenched smile on her face. If she fought now she would be serious and that usually resulted in death. The boy was truly a good fighter, at this point it was best to leave it up to Gabriel before it was allowed to continue.
“Well Gabriel?” Calandra asked calmly without moving her eyes from her opponent. “Shall we continue or have you made your decision?”
|
|
|
Post by Gabriel Jhaedaes Os Tar on Sept 30, 2010 18:33:10 GMT -8
Even Gabriel had flinched ever so slightly when Rio had landed that blow on Calandra, an instinctive reaction motivated by the need to protect a close friend. He would not have actually moved to do so in this type of situation of course - Calandra would never forgive the damage to her pride - but the reaction was there nevertheless. Daemon's might be ruthless, cruel creatures but they were perfectly capable of fierce loyalty and care towards another.
Controlled as ever, though, Gabriel watched impassively as his deputy fixed the damaged wing. She had neglected to inform him that the damage was that bad - typical Calandra, if indeed she even knew the extent herself. He'd have done the fighting himself if he'd known the stakes, happily in fact, and Loki's words in his ear only served to sober him further. She shouldn't have been fighting at all. Unsurprisingly she had responded to her need for rest and healing with predictable recklessness, cavalier attitude firmly in place.
"Enough." His command in response to Calandra's question, a little louder than necessary, echoed sharply around the enclosed space. "No need to continue. After all, I need the position filled and a dead Mammalian isn't going to be much use." The light welcome of before had drained from his voice in response to his annoyance over Calandra's recklessness, but he forced himself to maintain a light, friendly tone when he addressed Rio. Wasn't the kid's fault, after all.
"If you would like the position, Rio, it is yours. You drew first blood against the highest calibre of opponent, so well done." He finished with a brief though genuine smile before moving closer to Calandra, giving Rio time to make his decision.
"It would have been nice of you to inform me that you're in no fit state to be testing new warriors," he hissed under his breath. "Or you, Loki. I would have been perfectly happy to carry out the fight myself if I'd known."[/font]
|
|
Rio
Daemon
Sleeper
Yes, sir?
Posts: 51
|
Post by Rio on Oct 2, 2010 12:07:30 GMT -8
Fast indeed. This was sorely realized by Rio as the vicious kick connected with his shoulder, making him just barely hang on to the blade as the kick jarred his whole arm, sending sharp stabs of pain into his arm and almost all the way to his neck. If he had not been forced to ignore such pain for the past fifteen years of his life, he would never have been able to stop the cry and would have definitely dropped his blade. Almost at once, he could feel the tender bruise forming. He was definitely fortunate for the skin not to have broken and added yet another scar to his more-than-worthy collection.
“Shall we continue or have you made your decision?” Rio's ears pricked up at this as he readied his grip on the dagger again. He was losing a little feeling in his fingers, but was determined to go on, spurred on by the danger hiding within Calandra, lying within the blow that he had dealt her. "Enough." Rio's head shot up at this, ears ringing painfully as the sharp command echoed throughout the miniscule area. Blinking, Rio did not get the sarcasm, but instead took it as the sincere will of the daemon lord, his wish not for him to be dead. That was good, he would survive another day.
But as he was given the choice of filling the position, he hesitated. It wasn't normal for him to be making such decisions, he had never been given even once the chance to make his own decision. The daemon lord wills so, as have you risen to his challenge. The position is yours, young one... An echoey voice filled his head subtly. It was a command, that he could live with. "Yes, sir!" He replied, sheathing his dagger and dropping to his knees despite his injury. He just hoped that it wasn't too obvious--that certainly wouldn't be good.
|
|
Calandra
Daemon
Sleeper
Game Over.
Posts: 77
|
Post by Calandra on Oct 7, 2010 12:43:32 GMT -8
Calandra let her strained smile disappear as she gingerly sat to further study the damage. She would need to put it in a partial splint and bind the cut, but other than that she’d had worse. “Congratulations boy, you have proved yourself more than worthy for this position, may you live a long life.” The daemon’s words were truthful, but an edge of irritation managed to creep into the tone.
Part of her wanted to continue the fight, part of her felt truly bad for making Loki and Gabriel worry. Luckily the guilty part far overweighed the bloodlust.
“It would have been nice of you to inform me that you're in no fit state to be testing new warriors,"
In no real mood to use a snappy comeback, Calandra looked down slightly. She was still for a moment before saying simply, “I’m sorry.” She hadn’t wanted to worry them, and more importantly, not to have to tell Gabriel about the city and the bomb. He already disliked Auspice, but letting him know that Calandra’s wings had been injured in the process of saving him and Loki would most likely be a death sentence. And as both Calandra and Loki rather liked the irritating shifter, it would be best if he remained alive.
The daemoness sighed and stood, finished looking over her wing. She had no splint as of yet, but she had been able to bind it with the red sash she wore around her waist, and that was more than enough to keep it from bleeding too much.
Loki grimaced and transferred himself from Gabriel’s shoulder to Calandra’s. “Do you know what she would have done to me if I had? She was more curious about this kid than she’s been in a long time, not to mention the matter of her pride. ” The wisp shrugged unhappily, “She doesn’t listen to me you know, not usually. You’re probably the only one she really does listen to, and that’s because she not only respects you as a friend, but a leader as well. Besides, any fool could have noticed the fresh scratches on her wings and how careful she was being with them, I’m not the only one to blame.”
Loki curled himself possessively around Calandra’s neck and shoulders and watched Rio with an unreadable expression. After a few moment he spoke again, sounding bored and irritable, ”Hey, brat. You should probably have someone take a look at that shoulder. Calandra kicked you straight on and I know for a fact that girl is pretty damn strong.”
Loki gave a tiny growl, “Man, I hate being this serious, it really blows.” With that statement, Loki closed his eyes and fell silent.
Calandra frowned deeply. As always, the wisp was maddeningly perceptive and managed to perfectly place her emotions. She muttered another apology, noticing for the first time that Rio had dropped to his knees. “What are you doing? Did I really kick you that hard, or are you just trying to be respectful? ” The daemoness looked puzzled, “You are basically the same rank as us now, you do realize that, right?” She shrugged very carefully. “As far as I’m concerned your former slave status means absolutely nothing and you are your own free man now.”
|
|
|
Post by Gabriel Jhaedaes Os Tar on Oct 9, 2010 21:50:24 GMT -8
Gabriel had expected a light-hearted quip or sarcastic growl from Calandra in response to his chastising, and when he didn't receive it the Daemon frowned perceptibly - unusual, this, for Daemons were good at hiding their feelings most of the time. Calandra was clearly affected by this more than she would normally let on, and furthermore she was almost definitely hiding something from him. No doubt that thing was the reason for her injury in the first place, and Gabriel did not miss the fact that she didn't meet his eyes as she probably would have if her usual sarcastic reply was forthcoming.
Definitely hiding something.
Gabriel sighed sharply under his breath, slipping into the efficient mode of a leader pressed for time and cluttered with duties. Rio first, then Calandra. "Your respectfulness is flattering but largely superfluous as of now; accepting the position of Strongest Fighter makes at least open displays unnecessary. Calandra is right - you are no longer a slave, and are free to behave however you wish so long as you obey the fundamental Daemon laws as all our kind must do. If you wish to remain in our company for now, you are of course welcome, although both of us have only limited healing knowledge. I could, however, take you to a healer if your shoulder is injured."
Rio could decide for himself what he wanted to do. Aside from dealing with his deputy Gabriel had no current pressing responsibilities; perhaps showing Rio something of Litharia, teaching him the fundamentals, would be possible after this. He'd seen only this small stretch of the Daemon Tunnels after all and could have at best only a rudimentary theoretical knowledge of the creatures and laws of Litharia. Gabriel's most pressing concern however was dealing with Calandra.
"As usual you were irritatingly adept at brushing off your injuries, but perhaps now that I know about the full extent you could tell me what happened?" Gabriel's voice was gentle now, inquiring, heavily though not intentionally layered with charm. It was a habit he slipped into unconsciously when he wanted information, allowing the Daemonic magic that defined him to permeate his behaviours. He stood behind Calandra as he spoke and very carefully ran deft, gentle fingers over the injured wing - she was protective of her prized assets, rightly so, but he hoped she wouldn't mind. She needed help whether she would admit it or not.
Sure enough he found the break and, shaking his head and sighing theatrically, ceased playing healer - hopefully before Calandra decided he was too intrusive. "As I'm sure you have known for some time, it needs to be reset and splinted, which will doubtless be far more painful now it's out of place from this altercation. Either you let me do it, or we find a healer. Okay?" Gabriel's voice was quiet and unforceful though his tone brooked no argument.
"And on our way out of these tunnels you can tell me what happened." The Daemon Lord grinned and turned on his heel, picking up the correct direction with ease. The other two he trusted would follow - presuming Calandra wasn't going to insist on being stubborn of course, which was always a possibility.[/font]
|
|
Rio
Daemon
Sleeper
Yes, sir?
Posts: 51
|
Post by Rio on Oct 14, 2010 10:21:06 GMT -8
“Congratulations boy, you have proved yourself more than worthy for this position, may you live a long life.”
As if none of the conversation beforehand had reached him, Rio was thrown off-guard by the sudden praise. Even though he had freed himself approximately a year ago, praise was still a surprise to him. He had become so used to fighting and winning battles alone that it was hard for him to get used to such praise. However, having received such praise, he allowed himself the liberty of raising his head to behold what was going on.
"Your respectfulness is flattering but largely superfluous as of now; accepting the position of Strongest Fighter makes at least open displays unnecessary. Calandra is right - you are no longer a slave, and are free to behave however you wish so long as you obey the fundamental Daemon laws as all our kind must do. If you wish to remain in our company for now, you are of course welcome, although both of us have only limited healing knowledge. I could, however, take you to a healer if your shoulder is injured."
Rio blinked, confused by the amount of words and the complexity of them. It took a while for him to digest the information, but luckily, his attention was directed towards Calandra. Gabriel meant that he should not salute or greet them as he used to. Perhaps he should be more like Gabriel and Calandra themselves. He had a status now, from what that phrase implied, and he was to uphold it in public. As he had experience with before, being a slave and acting as one made people think they could take advantage of him. Most of them were dead by now, the others weren't in good condition. But if he should remain with Calandra and Gabriel or go alone, he was unsure. Go with them... The voice returned, instructing him. Go, they will help. Instinctively, as Loki pointed it out, Rio looked to his shoulder, running a feather-light touch over the tender area. Yes, he could feel it swelling up, but as he flexed and tensed the muscles, the pain ebbed away. Years and years of abuse and pain had made him forget most of it, but Calandra's kick was by far one of the most evident memory of pain. Was it that long time since he had been freed that had lowered his pain threshold, or the deputy's sheer power?
"... own free man now." Taking this as an order to stand up, Rio did so, regarding both calmly. "I am fine." He ascertained. "It shall heal on its own, as have my other injuries." He did not add the word "all", as there was still one hindering his eyesight. However, when he looked at Calandra's wings, he saw that they were indeed in a sorry state, almost as if someone had tried forcefully to rip them off. His eyes widened briefly at the devastated mess, assessing each of the wounds. As the two daemons had established, one of the wings would need a splint. Rio did not know what could have caused such damage to her wings, but whatever it was, it was a good thing her wings had protected her back.
Before long, Gabriel had already walked on, leaving him with Calandra and Loki. Part of him wanted to follow Gabriel, but he was concerned about the avian daemon. She hadn't tied the sash properly, but then, as it was on her back, it wasn't easy to do so. He could forgive her that much. As for the splint, he could use an arrow or two. It would be a simple matter to temporarily structure a splint until they could get to a real healer. His meager skill was not enough for her. "Calandra," He addressed the daemon. "Would you permit me to fix that wound for you?" He gestured to her devastated wings. He was confident in his abilities to fix it up. Now it was a simple matter of Calandra's consent.
|
|
Calandra
Daemon
Sleeper
Game Over.
Posts: 77
|
Post by Calandra on Oct 14, 2010 11:27:21 GMT -8
"As usual you were irritatingly adept at brushing off your injuries, but perhaps now that I know about the full extent you could tell me what happened?"
Calandra snarled as she felt the bardic magic drug her senses. Although it did take away some of the pain, she did not enjoy being controlled, especially not by an old friend. She did allow him to inspect the wing though, she knew that it was damaged quite a bit, otherwise it wouldn’t hurt so much.
"As I'm sure you have known for some time, it needs to be reset and splinted, which will doubtless be far more painful now it's out of place from this altercation. Either you let me do it, or we find a healer. Okay?"
The daemoness muttered an agreement, knowing he would not drop it. And it was true; she did need a healer this time. Because of it she couldn’t help but feel a spark of irritated admiration at the boy’s skill. Regis had indeed trained him well. She watched the daemon lord turn on heel and walk away, knowing that they would follow. Calandra started to, mind racing on what she would tell him other than the truth. Saving the shifter’s life would have been a painful waste of time if Gabriel went out and killed him in a fit of anger.
Calandra was quite lost in thought and the sound of Rio’s voice almost startled her. The daemoness turned slightly, studying the boy with an eyebrow raised. It was not the fact that he knew how to treat wounds that was surprising; it was that he had actually made a decision for himself and offered to do something without being prompted first. While Rio was an excellent fighter, a people-person he was not. Calandra allowed herself a small smile and sat carefully on a rock jutting out of the ground. “Be my guest,” she told him simply, “Just hurry, lest you irritate Gabriel.”
|
|
Rio
Daemon
Sleeper
Yes, sir?
Posts: 51
|
Post by Rio on Oct 14, 2010 11:52:17 GMT -8
As Calandra snarled, Rio could tell that she was unhappy about something... perhaps Gabriel's nagging and concern. He had never experienced such a thing before, and from Calandra's reaction, it seemed that it would be best not to. It would be a pain for him. More than once, he had entered a battle in not much better condition than Calandra's herself and had always survived. Although the two daemons were much older than himself, he was sure sure that neither had been through as much training as he had.
The deputy looked as if she was going to follow him hastily, but was stopped by his words. The mammalian daemon was unsure as to whether this was a good thing or a bad thing. She looked surprised, as though he had done something that she did not expect. He would not have offered to do so if not for the dread that Calandra seemed to have for seeing a healer. Watching her lips twitched upwards, he noted that she was sitting at the right height for him to be working comfortably at. “Be my guest,” Rio nodded and retrieved his bow and quiver. He would need these for the job. “Just hurry, lest you irritate Gabriel.” He hesitated for a brief moment at this one; although he had experience with tending to wounds, speed had never been one of his greatest strengths. Nodding, he set to work at Calandra's wings. First of all was to fix that temporary bandage. Untying it swiftly, he redid it, making sure that it would not cut circulation and yet staunch the bleeding of the gash and a few wounds nearby. Having done that, he picked a sturdy arrow from his quiver. The tip was a little bent and definitely useless to him. He could use this. Using the red bandage, he held the wing into place carefully, taking care to be gentle. After a few adjustments, he deemed it worthy, adding another arrow just in case. Strapping the quiver back to his back, he stood away from Calandra, giving her some space. "Is this ok?" He asked her.
|
|