“I said no, so piss off!” Meikakuna growls before stomping off.
Evelynn lets out an annoyed huff as she watches the Greninja leave. “Fine then darling, you would’ve ruined it anyways!” She shouted as the frog turns the corner.
During one of her recent outings Evelynn caught word of a festival that’ll be starting incredibly soon. Now she could care less for the reasoning behind it, what truly had her attention was the fact that it’s a festival and she hadn’t participated in such activities in a while.
Now she could’ve gone on her own without saying a word to the others, like a proper lady she had to ask around. Baborachi quietly declined the offer, stating that he’s uncomfortable of crowds and public events (and of course thanked her many times for even offering to bring him along). Kelviks also said no, saying that his searches around the world was more than enough time outside the arena for him. Meikakuna? Heh, the answer is quite obvious.
All that leaves is-
“Once again the Salazzle’s offer is denied, however this time more rudely.” Says a familiar voice. Evelynn smiles upon recognizing it, however before she could open her mouth the voice continues. “But it’s quite expected, for Meikakuna is not particularly fond of her. Then again, Evelynn was more than aware of the Greninja’s potential hostility...but would still approach her either way simply for the amusement of irritating her.”
Evelynn chuckles to herself and turns to face the Bisharp. “Guilty as charged~” She smirks, spreading out her hands. “But even then, I’m still a very courteous lady. It would be very rude of me to not include someone after all, hmmm~?”
Messara raises an eyebrow, however said action went unnoticed due to the mask of his helmet covering it. “She speaks of courtesy, however she has yet to press the question upon me.” He continues his narration, despite the words...his voice and expression contains no trace of sadness or irritation.
Evelynn presses the back of her hand against her chin as she slowly tilts her head. “Darling, I save the best for last after all. Of course I was going to ask you, I simply decided that you will be the last one to ask~” She flutters her eyes. “Now, how about it? Would you-”
“I must admit, it has been a while since I have left these walls.” The Bisharp, interrupts. “If the traveling word is correct, then you speak of a festival? Either case, I shall accept your offer and accompany you to wherever this celebration will be.”
“It’s rude to interrupt a lady.” Evelynn huffs, crossing her arms with a pout on her lips. The look didn’t last very long though as her flirty smile returns to her face. “But yes, it is a festival~ I think the reasoning for it is the celebration of some queen’s birthday, but that doesn’t matter.” She leans closer, her voice growing to a whisper. “There will be singing, dancing, and plenty of alcohol.”
Messara’s expression doesn’t move as she whispers that, however after a few seconds his eyes dart the side at the sudden sound of rumbling.
“DID I HEAR DANCING AND DRINKING?!” A loud voice booms as the massive frame of Tapferkeit stomps into the light, causing Evelynn to balk.
She forgot that the Golurk recently arrived, since Meikakuna brought him here due to him having the potential of being the warrior Kelviks was looking for. He’s only been here for a few days, hanging around and doing his own thing since Kelviks needed to make preparations for the upcoming battles.
Even then, Evelynn didn’t forget the Golurk by accident. She barely even knew the giant, so she saw no point in inviting him. He’s a stranger, why should she care?
The Golurk reaches down and grabs Messara’s shoulder with an arm, however due to the sheer size of the appendage...it happens to engulf most of the Bisharp’s upper torso. “Is this a true party I hear?” He chuckles. “I thought that such celebrations are dead to the world, that ‘Balls’ have taken over.” He releases Messara from the fingery prison, causing the Pokemon to stumble back. “BUT IT APPEARS THAT IT’S NOT SO! THAT THIS WORLD STILL HOLDS GLORIOUS CELEBRATIONS OF SONG AND DANCE AND DRINK!” He pumps a fist into the air. “Comrades, allow me to join you in this jolly event!”
Evelynn blinks once, then twice. Slowly her smile morphs into an annoyed frown, just as she opens her mouth Messara decides to cut her off for the second time in only a few minutes.
“The metal giant’s enthusiasm shows no bounds, for his desire to enjoy such a festival is quite obvious to the world.” He speaks, his lips containing a ghost of a smile. “I see no reason why the Golurk could not be invited, for this festival is not selective with its guests...” He glances over at Evelynn. “...No?”
With another annoyed huff she rolls her fine. “Oh fine... Very well, he can join only because as a lady I am obligated to be courteous to him as well.”
“AHA!” Tapferkeit cheers, his rumbling voice bouncing off the stone walls. “I give you my thanks for allowing me to accompany you, fair maiden.”
Her lips twist into a faint dark smile. ‘Darling, if you truly knew me...then ‘fair maiden’ would be the last thing that comes to your mind.’ She thought.
Messara gives a small nod of his head. “With that the decision is made, for now we have a band of three that shall go to this festival.” He taps his chin a few times before glancing at Evelynn. “The festival, it starts in a few days?”
“Actually, it starts in less than two~” The Salazzle chuckles, causing the Bisharp to raise his eyebrow for a second time.
“Last second decision as it seems.” He speaks before his lips raise into a tiny smile, a quiet chuckle escaping him. “However it is not surprising, for you are known for the sudden events.”
Evelynn merely shrugs in response. “Not this time dearie, since I just heard the news of it today. But we’ll need to prepare to leave soon, since it’s a bit of a walk.”
“Say no more!” Tapferkeit booms. “I shall retrieve my hammer, THEN IT SHALL BE A GLORIOUS PARTY WORTHY OF LEGENDS!” With that the metal giant stomps off, leaving the two Pokemon standing in confusion.
After a few seconds Messara speaks up again, voicing the thoughts that are plaguing both of their minds.
“Why would he need to bring a weapon to a festival?”
Evelynn merely smiles in response, her eyes narrowing slightly.
The three travelers known as Tapferkeit, Messara, and Evelynn set foot into the town square. The place is alight with activity of all the folks, from what can be witnessed it seemed that the festival has already started due to the excitement of the villagers.
“Sounds of delighted laughter fill the streets of this quaint village, both adults and children smile with joy as they flow from one activity to the next.” Messara narrates, his eyes darting from one excited face to the next.
“I doubt these ruffians have electricity.” Evelynn adds, much to the Bisharp’s amusement. The Salazzle’s eyes turn to the buildings, noticing their rather medieval appearance. “I do not know how one can live in such abysmal conditions, for a lady like myself quite appreciates the wonders of modern technology~”
“It is a life that has been chosen by them.” Messara chuckles. “And from what have witnessed, they are quite satisfied with this decision.”
Evelynn shrugs in response. “If they choose to live like primitive animals, then I see no reason to stop them~” This earns Evelynn a few looks from the passerby, but she could care less of what they think.
“The Golurk’s own excitement seemed to have overcome him,” Messara’s voice suddenly speaks, rousing the Salazzle from her smug thoughts. “For he has quickly left in order to find a place that he would feel the most joy.”
Surely enough Tapferkeit has already vanished, which is a surprising feat due to his rather massive size and heavy weight.
Evelynn turns to look at her companion through the size of her eyes, her lips forming a grin. “I don’t know about you darling but I feel like dancing. I know you’re quite terrible at it, so I won’t bother asking you to come with me~” She quickly turns and walks away with a sway on her hips. “Ta ta darling~ Don’t scare away any potential suitors with your narrations, alright?”
With that she blends into the crowd, vanishing from his sight.
The Bisharp shakes his head slowly at the insult, looking more amused than anything. “Once again the Salazzle’s teasing is expected, for it seems that she can’t live in this world without poking fun in another.” His lips curve upwards in a small smile. “Nevertheless, that is how she operates...so one can merely deal with it.” His eyes admire the town square again, the surrounding sensations of joy and excitement causing his small smile to gradually grow. “I wonder, what events will this festival hold? What faces will be found within the walls of this fair city?” He lets out a chuckle. “It is a mystery, but all mysteries will soon reveal themselves.”
[Tapferkeit, Messara, and Evelynn has arrived to the Queen’s Festival and are open for interactions!]
(💎 Hmmmmmm~ What does the Word-smith Bisharp have to say about our Good Ol Bunny Boy Blayz?)
Another individual who wishes for him to give his ‘judgement’, which in reality is just him narrating longer. So just like the last one, he shall grant this person their request.
“A cross between a Lopunny and a Flareon, an unusual combination that I’ve never seen. A very friendly smile is displayed on his face and his eyes are but gateways to the passion burning inside him.
His muscles are very well-toned, displaying to the world of their power and the effort he put into them. It’s very obvious that he’s a fighter, specifically one that involves kicks as all Lopunny are known for.
Although my knowledge on him is limited, I know from his behavior that he is someone who means well. Nothing is hidden, for everything is open on his features. Due to his behavior alone you can see what he thinks of you, an obviousness that is rather pleasant to see.
My rating will be a nine, for this is an individual I can greatly respect. Although their past is concealed in mystery, their open behavior makes them a trustworthy person.”
I walk down the streets of the pleasant town, despite the few days that have passed...the festivities are still as strong as ever before.
One would think that I would narrate the every comings and goings of my surroundings, but today is a day that I’ve decided to cut back and keep it to a minimum. Despite what many think, narration isn’t a necessity for my existence. It’s merely training in order to keep my senses heightened, however there are still times when I’ll simply choose not to continue this training for a few hours to a day.
I see several excited children run past me, laughing with glee as they head to some other cheerful place. I could feel my normally stoic face part to a smile, the sight of all of this happiness warms me greatly.
This place is a very welcome to change, all of the smiling faces...the colors...the music...all of it is a very welcome sight indeed.
A particular song hits my ears, causing my head to turn slightly to see some musicians playing a rather peculiar yet enjoyable tune. It’s been a while since I’ve heard of such songs, it brings back memories of a different festival that I visited a long time ago.
Heh...good times.
As I continue down the path, a loud commotion draws the attention of my gaze. Upon hearing the source my eyes fall upon a large crowd...and more specifically who this crowd is surrounded.
Right in the center is the large metal Golurk himself - Tapferkeit if I remember his name correctly. From what I’m seeing I couldn’t help but pause and watch with fascination.
It appears that a Psychic-type Pokemon is levitating and stacking wine barrels onto the Golurk’s hands, and the pile just seems to be getting taller and taller.
I am fully confident to say that the wine barrels are rather heavy and to see the crusader easily hold them is astonishing. But what greatly shocks me is how that the stacks of barrels keeps getting taller and taller...and his arms are never wavering with each new weight added.
The crowd cheers louder as the stack has grown to a tower of seven barrels on each hand. The crusader merely laughs in response before shouting something at the Psychic Pokemon, asking for more barrels to be placed.
And so they continued...slowly placing one barrel at a time on each hand, soon the tower grew to 10 per hand.
Just watching this scene unfold fills me with admiration and wonder, for not only does this Pokemon possess great strength...but also extreme control. Being able to lift a great amount is one thing, but to be able to keep yourself absolutely still to balance these barrels...it is amazing.
One would think that a Pokemon of this size would be a very clumsy oaf, a stereotype often associated to giants. But this Golurk possesses a sense of control found in very little individuals, for to be able to keep these stacks of ten perfectly balanced and without any wobbling...
If I were to have been narrating earlier, I would certainly be at a loss of words now.
Eventually the tower grows to twelve before the Golurk chooses to stop and requests the barrels to be removed.
Twelve wine barrels on each hand...stacked on top of each other...
...Very little could accomplish this feat without psychic power, a simple breeze could knock over one of the towers...and yet he kept them aloft without difficulty.
The crowd cheers and applauds as the last remaining barrel is removed, followed by Tapferkeit giving a bow. In one swift motion he picks up his giant hammer and rests it on his shoulder, he soon follows the action by pumping his fist into the air and letting out a loud cry of victory.
I turn away, continuing down my path before I got sidetracked by the Crusader’s stunning feat.
Yes...now I can see why Meikakuna said that he has potential, for to show such power and control...
...He would be a force to be reckoned with.
I feel my smile grow somewhat, visible enough for Evelynn to question me for my sign of emotion.
...I have high hopes for Tapferkeit, to succeed in beating not only the four of us...but Kelviks as well.
I effortlessly dodge the incoming strike of the Scyther, his swings wild and contain no discipline. The surrounding crowd roars, chanting and shouting for blood.
“Once again the Scyther misses, their movements predictable as always.” I say, looking at my opponent with narrowed eyes.
A this point the Scyther is seething with rage. “Why aren’t you shutting up?!” He growls loudly. “You just keep fucking talking!”
“Not only do his movements contain little self-control, his mouth also seems to share this quality.” I note aloud. At this point something seems to snap within the Scyther, seeing that he lets out a loud roar.
“I’M GONNA FUCKING KILL YOU!” He screams before lunging at me, swinging down with both of his scythes with the intention to behead me.
Such an action would be the end of me if it were to land, however...said action also made him completely open. This opportunity is something I’ve been waiting for since the beginning of the fight...
My body shimmers before fading to black, vanishing from the spot. In an instant I reappear right behind the Scyther and slash at his back with Sucker Punch, my blades effortlessly pierce right through his chitin and right into his flesh.
The Scyther is sent tumbling to the ground, his body writhing in agony. The roar of the crowd intensifies, chanting for me to end him.
“In one single move he has lost the fight, for he has forgotten who he’s dealing with.” I say as I stand over the Scyther, my expression stoic. “Because he let anger override sensible thought, he will not be able to walk out alive.” I look down at him in pity. “The rules of the pit fight are simple. We fight to the death, the victor is the last one standing.”
With great difficulty he slowly looks up at me, his eyes burning with a defiant rage. “Then what are you fucking waiting for?” He hisses. “Finish me.”
I frown at him before giving a small nod. “They show no fear, for they understand their fate.” I stab down with my arm, my blades penetrating his skull and quickly ending his life. “Hopefully they will not let their anger overtake them in their next life.”
The crowd cheers as I pull my blade out of the corpse, the metal dripping with blood.
“And there you have it!” The announcer shouts. “The Shadow Blade is once again the victor! For those who have bet on him, you have chosen well! However for those who haven’t...” He lets out a chuckle. “Then better luck next time!”
With a small shake of my head I make my way out of the ring, immediately a crew sets out to clean the blood and remove the body in order to prepare for the next match.
“Messara!” The voice of my ‘manager’ laughs, a rather overweight Azumarill wearing a vest just a size too small. “Ya did it again, at this rate we’re just gonna get more and more rich!”
I merely nod in response, my face devoid of expression.
“Oh come on, this is our nineteenth win!” He grins, nudging my side with an elbow. “You’ve gotta admit, this idea was great eh? With you doing the fighting and me making the bets, we’re gonna retire in paradise in no time! And-”
“Notify me when my next battle begins.” I say abruptly, cutting him off. Without another word I make my way towards one of the seats in the far corner to be away from the crowd to regain my strength. This is the first time I’ve participated in two battles in one day, so I need to conserve my energy.
...
“Welcome to another match, ladies and gentlemons!” The announcer begins. “I hope you all are ready, because THIS fight is going to be something!”
Almost like routine, I leap over the ropes when it’s my sign to enter the ring.
“For our first fighter...we have the fearsome Shadow Blade! Currently with NINETEEN wins under his belt! Now I wouldn’t blame all of you who want to immediately start placing bets on this outstanding fellow, but wait till you see who his challenger is!”
“Two warriors enter, one leaves.” I mutter to myself. “Fight to the death, as it always has been. The question now...is will I succeed as the last nineteen? Or will my opponent be my end?”
“For a second fighter...” The announcer continues. “We have the the most deadliest ladies here in the underground! That’s right folks, the second fighter is no other than the Mistress of Steel!”
I couldn’t help but pause at the name, for even though it sounds familiar...I can’t quite place it. I watch as my opponent leaps into the ring, but once I got a good look at her...I couldn’t help but freeze.
Standing on the opposite side is a female Bisharp, when I examine her I notice that she has what looks like Jynx genetics. Although her body is like that of a Bisharp, her armor contains bright shades of red and gold while her skin is a rich purple. Out of the back of her helmet is a long braid of blond hair, once she looks at me she flashes a sly smile.
Normally I would begin narrating at this time, to set the confusion and unease for my opponent. But for some reason...I’m at a loss of words, my mouth could only open and close silently.
“What’s the matter, sweetie~?” She chuckles, looking quite amused at my dumbfounded expression. “From what I hear about you, you’re quite the narrator. Did the Skitty steal your tongue?”
Her words snap me out of my trance, I quickly shake my head as my thoughts are recollected. “I was surprised by your appearance.” I respond simply, finally finding my voice. “Rarely that happens with me.”
“Is that so?” She smirks, placing a hand on her hip. “So you like what you see~?”
I blink once and look at her blankly, with my lack of response she lets out an annoyed huff.
“Oh fine, be that way.” She says with a roll of her eyes.
“And here we have our fighters!” The announcer shouts, gesturing to the two of us. “Better make your bets now, because the match is about to start!”
I let my blades slide out of their sheathes, looking at the ‘Mistress of Steel’ with slight wariness. “This battle will be my toughest...” I say to myself. “Her form is calm and collected, her eyes containing a certain confidence only a skilled warrior would possess. Whatever reputation she has, I’m confident that she earned it.”
Her smile widens somewhat at my narration. “Oh I DEFINITELY earned it!” She chuckles. “I didn’t get this far by fighting easy battles after all~” Her eyes narrow slightly as she extends her arms, letting her own blades slide out of their sheathes. She only has a singular curved blade on each arm, the length and shape resembling that of a scythe. “I’ll admit...” She adds. “I quite enjoyed watching your fights, the narrations is definitely a welcome change. But since we’re paired up against each other, well...” She rolls her head, causing several pops to come from her neck. “We both know what’s to come, right?”
I don’t respond to her, instead taking a ready stance. She follows the same, her smile vanishing as her expression becomes serious
“Time is up, ladies and gents!” The announcer laughs. “Now hold onto your seats, because the greatest match between the two of the most strongest fighters shall...” A loud clang of a bell echoes through the room and the crowd roars in response. “BEGIN!”
With the sound of the bell she immediately started dashing to the side, circling around the edges of the ring. I stand my ground and watch her movements carefully, looking for what exactly she intends to do.
Her body begins to shimmer for a brief moment before vanishing, the sure sign of the move Sucker Punch. Reacting quickly I turn to face behind me and raise my blades just in the nick of time, for the moment I did so she reappeared and struck at me with her own. Our weapons clash, creating a shower of sparks.
“Her movements are swift, but not swift enough.” I say, my arms shaking slightly as the two of us press our weapons against the other’s. “Her attack may have succeeded on an unskilled opponent, however she is not dealing with such an individual."
I quickly pull back and step to the side with the intention to cause her to stumble forward, however she immediately ceased applying pressure the moment she felt my body shift and quickly backed away..
“That’s quite right!” She grins in amusement. “But it appeared that I’ve forgotten, so thank you for reminding me~”
With that she immediately strikes forward with a blade, in which I swiftly deflect. I quickly respond with a strike of my own, which she parries as well.
In less than a second it turns into a deadly dance of blades, the two of us quickly deflecting or dodging each other’s attacks before striking with our own. Constant sparks shower when our weapons clash, the sheer speed of our actions creating a blur of metal.
“Strike after strike we deliver, however none land.” I mutter, dodging a stab from her before swiftly delivering a sweeping swipe at her neck.
She quickly raises her other blade to block the swing, her amused smile never wavering. “Pointing out the obvious, hmm?”
Our fight continues, the minutes dragging on further. One would think that such a clash is pointless since the two of us are obviously equally skilled, however we are testing each other...figuring out are skill and limits...and seeing any possible openings to exploit.
“I must admit, Shadow Blade...” She says through gritted teeth, sweat visibly trickling down her face. “You’ve also earned your reputation as well, I’ve never encountered anyone with such skilled foot bladework as you.”
“And I you, Mistress of Steel.” I reply tensely, sweat running down my own body just as much as her’s. “You are very capable with the blade, I had yet to find one to match my speed until now.”
The two of us clash together once again, creating a stalemate as we press our weapons against the other.
“I guess it’s in our blood, eh?” She chuckles. “Us Bisharps are known to be quite handy with a sword after all~”
The two of us break away, both of us breathing heavily. This is the longest match that ever occurred underground and the crowd is roaring because of it, rarely had a fight last more than a few minutes...while this one easily broken five.
“I have to say...” She says quietly, her smile slowly shifting to a frown. “I regret fighting you, Shadow Blade. You’re a very different from the others, from the way you think to how you fight. It’s very...refreshing...” Her expression hardens. “So this pains me to say that this must end.”
My eyes widen at this, feeling unsure about what she said as well as what she intends to do. She quickly dashes to the side once again, the same tactic that she did earlier.
However instead of using Sucker Punch, she instead suddenly changes her course and leaps at me. She inhales deeply before unleashing out a freezing wind from her mouth, something that caught me off guard completely.
I expected that her Jynx genetics were more than just for looks, but I didn’t think her to possess the move Icy Wind. I grit my teeth together as I feel the cold air numb my body and coat the surface with ice, hindering my movements.
Upon landing her blades become engulfed in dark energy, the scythe-like weapons lengthening further as she channels the power of Night Slash. With her eyes filled with regret she charges at me, intending to finish me where I stand.
However little did she realize that I have one move that I’ve withheld since the very beginning, one that I’ve never used in any of my past fights...until now.
Double Team.
My Double Team is a unique variant, instead of creating multiple decoys...I instead turn invisible while leaving a decoy in my original place. When she blew the freezing wind on me I immediately used it, my body shimmering for just a moment before leaving an image of me in my stead.
Despite the ice coating my body I manage to step out of the way, allowing her to slice down on my decoy. If I were to not have been invisible she would’ve easily altered her course to strike me down, but that’s not the case. Now that she has delivered her blow, she has left herself open to me. Providing me the opportunity that I’ve been seeking...
Still invisible I lash out with a powerful kick, aiming straight for her head. The attack couldn’t have landed more true, for it struck her directly and sent her to the ground. The moment my foot landed with her head my body’s invisibility worse off, making me visible once more.
The cheering of the crowd grows becomes almost deafening at the drastic turn of events, just like that I turned what looked like a hopeless situation into a victory.
I see her laying on the ground, still dazed from the attack. The side of her helmet is dented from my kick, a small trickle of blood forming around her chin from the wound.
I slowly approach her, looking down at her body. All I need to do now is end her, and then this victory is official...
She slowly looks up at me, her eyes unfocused...but also containing respect. “I never expected it...” She chuckles quietly. “I became confident, thinking that my hidden ability would give me victory. But it appears that you’ve also hidden one of your skills, which proved to be my downfall.” She lets out a sigh. “I guess it’s settled, between the two of us...you’re the better fighter.” The Bisharp closes her eyes. “We both know what needs to be done, so let me say...it was a pleasure fighting you...Shadow Blade”
She raises her chin, exposing her neck to me. The surrounding crowd chants the word ‘kill’, desiring for her death. The moment is set, all I need to do is stab down. I aim my blade at her neck, preparing to end her life and claim my victory.
...
...
I...can’t do it...
My arm shakes as I hold it over her, unable to deliver the ending blow.
She...doesn’t deserve it...
She is a very skilled warrior, one like that I’ve never seen. The only reason why she lost was because I used a trick that I’ve kept up my sleeve, otherwise she would’ve been the victor.
Her technique is perfect, her bladework and footwork is outstanding...
And...she’s very beautiful...
She cracks an eye open, curious as to why I haven’t killed her yet. Her purple pupils look into mine, wondering what’s wrong.
I’ve noticed that my narratings have grown fewer over the course of the battle, and now...they have stopped entirely. I can’t think of a single thing to say, it’s almost infuriating.
She suddenly speaks, startling me from my thoughts. “Why are you hesitating?” She asks me, her eyes expression one of genuine curiosity. “You know the rules, Shadow Blade. Only one fighter can walk out alive, we both knew what we were getting into.”
I clench my fists, my blades sliding back into their sheathes. “I know...” I grit my teeth. “Yet...I can’t bring myself to.”
“MESSARA!” My ‘manager’ calls from the crowd, his voice filled with anger. “WHAT ARE YOU DOING?! FINISH HER! I JUST BET EVERYTHING ON YOU!”
She blinks upon hearing this before smiling. “Messara? That is your name?”
I could only nod my head in response.
“Well...” She laughs quietly. “That’s quite a wondrous name, far better than ‘Shadow Blade’ in my opinion.” She slowly sits up, her face cringing slightly from the pain. She takes several deep breathes before looking back up at me, her smile growing ever more. “Since I know your name, I believe that I at least owe you mine.” Her own blades slide back into their sheathes. “Mistress of Steel is my ‘fighter title’, but my true name is Aina.”
I couldn’t help but give her a tiny smile when she gave me her name. “It was a great pleasure to have fought you, Aina.” I chuckle, offering her a hand.
She greatly accepts it, allowing me to pull her back to her feet. The crowd is angry now, crying out in outrage.
“What is the meaning of this?!” The announcer cries. “This is a fight to the DEATH! You both know the rules!”
My expression hardens, my eyes shifting from the announcer...to the crowd...to my ‘manager’. Eventually I turn to face them all, my decision made.
“I forfeit this match to the Mistress of Steel!” I announce, this causes their outrage to increase tenfold.
“MESSARA! WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING!” My ‘manager’ screams, his face turning from his natural blue to an ugly shade of bright purple. “I BET EVERYTHING ON YOU! EVERYTHING!”
Aina looks at me in shock, unsure on what to feel. “Messara? You realize what you’re doing?” She asks me.
I look back at her, my small smile returning. “In the underground ring, forfeit means that the warrior must be killed by the other. So by the rules set, you are to kill me.” My smile grows ever larger. “However...I believe such a thing would be difficult if I were to leave this place before you could deliver such a blow..”
Her eyes widen as realization dawns on her, she lets out a loud chuckle before crossing her arms. “You do realize that you can’t set foot into any of these places again, right?”
I nod my head. “I do, however I must admit...I never quite enjoyed being here.”
Aina shrugs her shoulders before giving me a cheeky smile. “I don’t blame you, but I’d like to let you know that the chances of us ever meeting again is going to be pretty very low.”
“I’m aware, however...” I glance to the side, averting my gaze. “I do hope that we cross paths again Aina, but on better...circumstances.”
She laughs at this. “Oh I hope so too, Messara!” The Bisharp winks at me, her smile turning to a smirk. “So see you later lover boy, don’t get yourself killed ya here~?”
I couldn’t help but shake my head at this. “I don’t intend to.”
After our exchange I used my power of Double Team to escape the place unnoticed, I was confident that Aina won’t get in trouble...since due to me fleeing she couldn’t deliver the finishing blow...thus meaning they can’t do anything about it. That’s of course, assuming that she would even let them do anything in the first place.
Heh...
...
...
I constantly wonder on why I couldn’t kill her. What it love? Respect? A mixture of both?
Although I’m unsure on the exact reason, there is in fact one thing I am sure of...
Félicité has been idling trailing Messara's trail for a while now, possibly unbeknownst to him. It seems as though Messara is speaking aloud almost constantly, though Félicité can pick it up pretty easily at the distance they're at. Eventually, they pipe up, "Hey, are you playing pretend as an adventurer or something? That's my favorite. Can I join you?"
Little did the Espurr realize that the Bisharp was already well aware of their presence, in fact...he knew that they were following him for a while now. When the Pokemon approaches him he stops, turning his head to properly look at the Pokemon.
“With the Espurr’s curiosity piqued, they approach to ask the question that’s plaguing their mind.” He says aloud, however it’s difficult to tell if he’s talking to the child or himself.
He raises an eyebrow upon hearing the question, however he couldn’t help but crack a smile. “And a expected question, it is only normal for one to be curious of my doings.” Fully turning his body to face the Espurr, he lets out a quiet chuckle. “No child, I am not playing pretend as you how worded it. I am narrating my surroundings.” His gaze drifts to the surrounding trees, his eyes absorbing every detail. “It is a form of training, my narrations force me to study every single form and piece of information. It increases my awareness, preventing nothing from slipping my eyes and ears.” He turns back to the Espurr, amusement quite clear in his eyes. “Because of this, I knew you were following me. However...”
He leans down and extends a hand out to the child. “I would not mind if you wish to join me, however I believe that one as young as you should not wander on their lonesome. This forest may lack dangers, but risks are something that must not be taken.”
When the warriors never returned, Kelviks was forced to take matters into his own claws. The horrid beast will eventually return, and if nothing stopped it...it shall surely bring this land to ruin in its rampage.
Kelviks alone can’t take on the beast, even if he were to lure it to the structure where he could use his link to make him stronger. No...he needed powerful warriors...
One would think that gathering an army would be a simple solution, but the Golisopod thought otherwise. Seeing how easily the beast killed experienced Human and Pokemon warriors, sheer numbers would be too costly.
He needed at least one warrior capable of standing up to this beast, however...how will Kelviks find such a warrior?
Begrudgingly he left the comfort of the structure and ventured out into the land, asking around and keeping an eye out for individuals who showed great promise.
Sadly most warriors he found that others said were strong...did not meet his expectations... Although there was the rare few that did show such promise, when he brought them back to the arena for a proper dual...Kelviks would win by a landslide.
These ‘promising’ warriors always lacked in something; either being too reckless, too slow, too weak, or other various (or even combinations of said) faults that would be their undoing if they were to fight the beast.
And so it eventually came to the point where Kelviks has seen it all, a mere glance and a brief conversation is all he needed to know if a warrior held potential or not. The few he thought had potential? He would be disappointed again and again when they fought him on his own grounds...
Slowly his hopes began to dwindle as time passed, the prospect of finding someone that suited his needs seemed bleak.
...But one day an idea struck Kelviks, something that he should’ve thought earlier.
He was doing it all wrong, to have them immediately fight him. He needed to create some sort of ‘trial’, where these warriors would test their skill to overcome certain conditions in order to prove if they excelled in areas that is required in order to survive and beat this beast.
But how would Kelviks do this? What sort of ‘trials’ would they be?
It wasn’t difficult for him to decid, he needed Champions. Warriors who contained specific skills that forced a challenger to overcome in order to succeed, to prove that they wielded the qualities Kelviks seeks. And if they beat these Champions? THEN they can fight Kelviks, for they have proved that they are worthy enough.
These ‘trials’ sound like an arena fight, which actually describes them quite perfectly. In fact, Kelviks remembers one particular chamber in the structure that resembled a sort of arena. It had a perfectly flat ground, it was circular, very massive in size, contained two openings, and even had several raised stands for one to overlook the area...
Yes...that place will do perfectly to host these fights...
But when he thinks about it, constantly calling the building itself ‘structure’ doesn’t do it much justice. It needs a name, something to give it an identity.
The Coliseum? No no... It needs to give it a sense of uniqueness, to describe its greatest qualities...
The Arena of Ancients?
Heh, that’ll do...quite nicely actually.
And so Kelviks continued his search, but with different individuals in mind. He found many warriors that would be promising Champions, however most declined despite how much he insisted...
...But his search was not in vain, for he found four individuals that not only matched the qualities he desired but agreed to be his Champions.
He found a Salazzle by the name of Evelynn, she’s a very capable fighter who excelled in agility as well as ranged attacks. It would force the challenger to use agility in order to avoid her attacks and overcome her, thus making her a valuable choice as a Champion.
Another individual is a Bisharp known as Messara, a very intelligent and cunning duelist who relied on trickery as well as exploiting weaknesses. To defeat him the challenger is forced to not only be skillful but also just as intelligent, thus why he is another valuable choice for a Champion.
Baborachi is another individual, a kind-hearted Machamp who possessed a very powerful side in combat. His brutality in combat as well as strength is unmatched, in order to defeat him the challenger will have no choice but to match him in strength. Despite his strong dislike for violence he came with Kelviks, his great strength proving to be an invaluable Champion.
And finally is a Greninja named Meikakuna, an individual who possessed the unique style of combat of using the terrain against her foes. By making the ground hazardous with various moves her opponent will need to be incredibly knowledgeable and wary of their surroundings, for being reckless will only get themselves further injured.
In exchange for them being his Champions, Kelviks has given them a place to live inside the Arena of Ancients. Each of them were given a room, using what small treasures he found over the journey he assisted them in buying whatever things they need in order to make themselves at home.
Messara, Evelynn, and Meikakuna accepted their rooms gratefully. Baborachi however preferred to reside within the massive chamber with the gaping hole in the ceiling, where he could nurture the plants there and make it much greater than it is now.
It took a long while to make sure their stay was fully comfortable, buying appliances was one of the biggest challenges. His knowledge on such things were non-existent due to his isolation, so he learned a good deal on modern technology while working out these necessities. Electricity was out of the question due to the nature of the Arena, in the end they had to make do with devices that ran on wood or batteries.
Despite these limitations they managed to make their stay quite comfortable, and with it finished they began spreading word of The Arena of Ancients. Eventually warriors of all shapes and sizes came, eager to test their might against the Champions.
Sadly most didn’t seem to understand the reason for the Arena’s existence, for they desired either to obtain fame or to just test themselves. A good number weren’t even allowed to challenge it, for Kelviks knew that they didn’t have what it took.
Only a few warriors out of the ones that did particiapte managed to beat all four Champions, however they were incapable of defeating Kelviks himself.
This went on for many years, the number of warriors wishing to test themselves decreasing the longer time passed.
And as the warriors became fewer, so did Kelviks’ hopes grow smaller. It seemed that once again the situation was bleak, that he would never find the warrior that could help him defeat the beast.
With nothing else to do, he let word of the Arena die out. No longer did warriors come to challenge it, for most those that came didn’t fit his desires anyways.
Despite the fruitlessness of their attempts he became quite close with the Arena’s Champions, although their own relationships with each other were mixed...they were happy with staying with Kelviks.
With an absence of any new challengers, Meikakuna herself suggested that she would search for anyone of promise during her various supply runs. Overtime she gained an eye for potential just like Kelviks, so she knew who would hold the possibility of overcoming the challenges and defeating Kelviks.
Seeing no other options as well as trusting her judgement, Kelviks agreed.
And thus he waits, hoping that Meikakuna would find a warrior that she would believe would be capable of defeating the Arena of Ancients.
He rarely left the arena anymore, only occasionally to check on the status of the place where the beast will return. No longer did he need to go outside to hunt, for with supplies brought by Meikakuna as well as the food grown by Baborachi supplied everything they needed.
The Machamp brought down needed soil and used bought fertilizer to make the place rich for plants, with some seeds and a caring hand it became what one can only describe as a paradise.
Many fruits and vegetables grow there as well as beautiful trees, bushes, and flowers. Baborachi would use these plants for food and medicine, his medical and culinary skills are something many would be envious of.
Messara would spend his time reading as well as teaching Kelviks and the others with his vast selection of literature and history. However if one were to feel daring, he wouldn’t mind accepting a challenge to a game of chess.
When not teasing others with her flirting (specifically Meikakuna), Evelynn would either go out to towns for social interactions or spend her time singing in her room to music on her media player. During her outings she keeps an eye out for any curious individuals, for if any catch her eye...she would notify Kelviks or Meikakuna.
And so...they wait, to see if Meikakuna would ever find someone that could be the one.
...However...as of now...she may have found that said individual...
...All that’s left to do is for her to see for herself...
The travel back here took me many days, however with the excitement of finally finding someone who held the potential...the walk meant nothing to me.
Upon finding the stone entrance I proceeded down the stairs, the walls lined with small crystals that gave enough light to properly see. Upon reaching the main chamber I look around, only to stop when my gaze falls upon Kelviks. It’s obvious that he was waiting for me, his hulking form looking almost intimidating in the light of the crystals.
“Welcome back, Meikakunaaa...” He hisses with a small bow, slowly making his way towards me with a loud clacking sound with each step he makes. “Your journey, I assume it went...wellll?” The Golisopod looks down at me, his tone sounding hopeful.
So I tell him.
I let my smile be shown, giving him a nod. “Hopeful indeed, Kelviks.” I say. “The Crusader, Tapferkeit... I’ve witnessed him in combat, and from what I’ve seen...he is a force to be reckoned with. I believe he holds the potential to be the warrior you have sought all this time...”
Kelviks lets out a laugh, a low...yet relieved laugh. “Yesss... Yes yes... Meikakuna, I thank you...” He bows his head slightly at me, the chain-like mask covering his face clinking faintly as it waves from the movement. “Tapferkeit...his tales show promise, very much sooo... To have you visually confirm, Kelviks...is pleased...very much sooo...”
I nod my head in return, as I open my mouth to comment further I freeze as I hear a particular voice shout my name.
“MEIKAKUNAAA~ DARLING!”
Before I could turn I feel a pair of arms wrap around me in a tight hug, my body immediately tenses as a scowl replaces the smile on my face. “Evelynn, get off me!” I hiss, pulling said Salazzle’s arms off and pushing her away.
I turn to see her giving me a pout, crossing her arms. “Now that’s not a way to greet someone who’s missed you, dearie.” She huffs. “It appears that despite getting some fresh air, your sour personality hasn’t changed at all.”
I grit my teeth together as I could do nothing but glare, it’s obvious that she’s trying to get under my skin...but it infuriates me to no end.
And Evelynn knows this, seeing how a smirk is tugging at the corners of her lips. She turns her head to look at Kelviks, her icey blue eyes glinting with curiosity. “Now you look like you’re in a good mood, Kelviks dear.” She chuckles. “I assume that Meika has found something good?”
I clench my hands into fists upon hearing the nickname, something that Evelynn also does to anger me. Before I could open my mouth I find myself cut off once again, but by Kelviks this time.
“Indeed, Evelynn... Very much indeeeeed...” He chuckles in return. “Meikakuna...has sought out the Crusader, and she says that he holds potentiaaaal...”
“The air feels much lighter in this chamber, more so than ever before.” Another voice cuts through the air, signifying that no other than Messara has arrived. The Bisharp steps into view with a small smile on his face, trailing behind him is the Machamp known as Baborachi. “The glee on the Golisopod and Salazzle’s faces shows what the answer is, for that the Greninja has found the one that we have been seeking.” His gaze turns to me, his smile turning into a faint smirk. “However the air surrounding Meikakuna burns with anger, showing that she has fallen victim to Evelynn’s teasing...as always.”
“Welcome back, Meikakuna.” Baborachi says softly, looking at me with a soft smile.
At this point I take a deep breath and shake my head, since I’m just letting myself get worked up. With my emotions more under control I give a weak smile back at Baborachi. “Thank you, Baborachi. It’s good to see you again.” I glance at Messara and give him a glare, who replies with a shrug.
“From the glare I’ve received, it’s obvious that Meikakuna does not appreciate my narrations.” He chuckles. “However this is the way things are, for none shall be spared from my words.”
Kelviks’ small claws near his neck tap together multiple times, creating a distinct clicking sound that draws are attention. “Champiooons...” He says loudly, he looks at us to make sure he has our full attention...and then speaks to me.
“Meikakuna, when will Tapferkeit arrrive?” He asks.
“He did not specify.” I respond simply. “However he gave me his word that he will come, however there are some things that he requires to finish before he can come.”
The Golisopod nods at this before looking at the rest. “Now...it is time that we prepaaare for the warrior’s arrivalll...” He lets out another low, chittering chuckle. “Spread word of the Arenaaa, once again...it is opeeen... By spreading word, it makes it easier for him to find us yesss?”
“And what if others show up, dearie?” Evelynn inquires, something that I was about to ask myself.
“Let them come, let them come!” He laughs louder. “Kelviks...is willing to test out other warriorrrs if needed, however by spreading word...spreading knowledge...” The gem on his forehead glows, but only briefly. “...He will find us with...no difficulty... Yes yes...”
He lowers his giant claws to the ground, tapping the stone ever so slightly. “The Arena of Ancieeents...is open once...again...”
