Wall of Gambino

There was a soft crack of steel, as something made it's presence, and weight, known.

Stepping forth with a regal gait, and mantle that covered a towering form, the Judge took his position to the side.

The HoH Judges are the supreme enforcers of tournament law for the duration of each match. Each Judge wields extraordinary legal power in his or her own stage over fighters. In addition to functioning as "legal administrators", they are also charged with the task of guarding the spectators who may be around the stage.

Every Judge has archives on every participant on file, and can simulate the powers of a variety of them in order to target its opponent's weaknesses. This was due to the data collected via fighters, in which DNA samples, skin samples, tissue, blood, etc-- were all analyzed and broken down once a FIGHTER came into contact with the actual wearer.

With the appearance of the Judge, the match was slated to begin.

The air all around the wall held a somber atmosphere. The contruction that finished on schedule recrafted the wall to hold it's original, though dull, state. Nayko surmised that the tower falling and destroying the wall may have been a good change to the landscape; except of course for the ecological damage it caused. He traversed the distance in a record slow, feeling the burdon of his nervousness sinking into the soles of his shoes.

Silver stood atop the wall, brandishing his magestic weapon and sporting the decorative armor that complimented so nicely. Nayko stood staring at his alluring captain with a rekindled twinge of his fear. He rocked back and forth on the balls of his feet breathing deeply. The anticipation of the tournament brought out the worst of him before the team, and now that the day finally arrived, he couldn't find the courage to make his way into the ring. He stayed, frozen with his feet cemented to the ground and his wings pressed tightly against his back, hoping that his teammates would come and rescue him from thie nervous petrification.

Peace. It was all that ran through Shuyin's mind. Neither the sounds, smells, or the feel of stone beneath him penetrated his thoughts. He was in complete meditative peace, focusing his inner strength, sharpening his mind. But there would be one sound that would penetrate his sanctity of mine, one he waited for.

A series of beeping sounds came from his FIGHTER, strapped to his right wrist over the adamantine bracer that covered his arm. He had set an alarm to go off prior to the match start time; sometimes Shuyin gets a little too deep into his meditation, and doesn't come out of it for days. He brought a hand over to turn the alarm off, opening his eyes.

The monk rose to his clawed feet, slipping on the wooden clogs he normally wore on them. He wore his common attire - a worn fighter's gi with the sleeves torn off, slacks, and a black cloth belt. Shuyin turned around to face the opposition with the rest of his team, clenching his fists and popping his knuckles.

"So this is Team Ryugin."

Time to fight.

The somber atmosphere around the wall was only added to by the large threatening storm clouds that Reinhart had examined. The ambiance was even further added to by the massive hunks of tower that still were strewn about the area. The wall might have been prepared, but the remains of the mighty tower still dotted the landscape. Among them was a massive chunk of steel girders and concrete that stood up high into the sky, nearly one hundred and fifty feet, as if it were a small testament to the mighty tower it had once belonged to.

Distant thunder rumbled across the open area that the wall crossed, signifying that the clouds may bring rain later on in this match up between teams. Then a flash of lightning, and a slight misty drizzle blew by the wall, if only for a moment, carried by the wind as the thick air from the clouds drifted down the valley. As the thunder rolled from the lightning strike, a figure would be seen standing atop the mighty chunk of debris, a white coat blowing softly in the cool wind. Silvery hair fluttered gently as well as red eyes stared down at the wall, making sense of the proceedings.

Steam rose slightly off of the figure as the moisture from the drizzle heated and moved off of him as he pulled in a small amount of flame energy to make use of if the need for a Striker Assist came up. This was Ryugi Kazamaru, the Vice-Captain of Team Ryugin. He stood silently, not moving as he took note of his teammates arriving. No one knew how long he had been standing there, but he watched his teammates and the arriving members of the opposing team like a hawk. he then spoke loudly, his voice carrying over the open area to reach the ears of his teammates.

Dragonforce... Hmmm...

ALL RIGHT TEAM!! LET'S SHOW THEM WHAT FORCE THE SILVER DRAGONS ARE CAPABLE OF!!

As if punctuating his remark, lightning flashed, and thunder rolled, marking the beginning of the first fight for his team this year.

Silver drew Dragoonair from its place on his back, pointing the blade directly at Shuyin. He payed little attention as his allies burst on the scene, giving his opponents a malicious grin with his full attention.

"Team Dragon Force, I assume."

The man merely rolled his eyes at Ryugi's naturally corny words, but he was right. There was no need to exchange pleasantries this time around; it was go time. Nothing would stand in their way this year. Not Glacier. Not a reaper. Nothing.

Yo Silver! Why don't you go first this year! I went first all last year. Makes sense you get to have some fun, what with being the captain and all, right?

Ryugi spoke from his perch atop the hunk of debris. He wanted very much to get into the heat of things, however, fair was fair, and he would still have his chance to fight, just not yet. He'd waited a whole year, he could wait a few more hours.

"You assume correctly," Shuyin replied.

He looked his opponents over, picking out in his mind who he would square up against. His fists were his primary weapons, which would put him at a disadvantage if he went up against Silver and his spear, so Shuyin ruled him out. Sutiiven or Staccato would probably be a better match-up with him. Reinhart looked more right for Shuyin, but then he saw the angel's nervous expression. His mind was made up.

Shuyin looked to Staccato, then to Sutiiven, nodding to them both. "Fight with honor, my friends. This will be a glorious first round."

Raising his arms, he crossed his bracers in front of his face, then snapped them down and spread his feet, taking a fighting stance with his left side leading. His hands were open, arms bent, with the left out before him, palm facing forward, and his right right tucked closer to his side. His feet were spaced shoulder-width apart, left foot pointing forward and the right to the side like an L. His senses were focused, and any feelings of apprehension or nervousness was placed behind him. All that mattered was the fight, and his eyes were focused on Nayko.

"Right. Reinhart, you're up."

Shuyin seemed to have his sights on Nayko, which was quite understandable. Well, he wasn't one to disappoint; it made the fights more interesting. He merely wanted the captain out of formality, but in reality he didn't care. So long as he got to fight this time around.

Plus, Reinhart wasn't one to take orders from authority. He WOULD be going first.

"Give em hell."

"Give him hell, Stacc." Shuyin patted him on the shoulder and stepped back. He was eager to see how this fight started out.

"Likewise."

Not like Reinhart was very polite but he had a tendency to mirror people around him, manners included. Now, as Staccato took what may be his fighting stance Reinhart didn't take any, instead he rushed in. They couldn't be more than 20 feet apart so closing the distance was no task.

Dashing forward almost propelled Reinhart would be within good striking range so he did as most fighters usually do. He threw the first and second punch a quick left jab followed by a right cross assuming Staccato didn't interupt his first action. The first round had now officially started.

((1))

Shuyin couldn't help but grin. Now someone else would get to feel his pain. As much as he hated that shield, he knew it would serve as a good guard against opponents that fought unarmed like himself. Good to know those practice sessions were paying off.

Staccato could only do one thing about the knee attack, and that one thing that he did was to side step out of the way of it. Makeing sure that he was out of the way of the attack eniterly.

Staccato would then Charge into his opponent sheild first. If he managed to make the shield contact with Reinhart anywhere it would change shape to become a large spike. Which could be used to stab futher into whatever it hit.

Staccato would be thrown back onto his butt. Staccato would roll bacward as he landed and would use his hand and his shield to help himself up onto his feet.

Up on his feet again, Staccato's legs a little less steady than they normally were. though He was able to stand still.Reaching across to with his left arm, Staccato would grab his right arm where the wrist gaurd was.

Lowering his stance Staccato would wait for the next attack.

Staccato would not have noticed the shadow getting darker, but he would notice it when it was under him and he would imeadiatly jump backward to get out of it. His high speed would allow him to, just bearly get out of i. Though now he was a whole lot closer to the edge of the wall then he liked. So he would run to the side to get closer to the middle.

As he ran Staccato would pull his hand away from his wrist and the wrist gaurd would follow. As he pulled it away it coudl become apparent that they wrist gard was becoming a thin metal whip of sorts. As soon as the whip was finished Staccato would swing it back, aiming to snag one of Reinhart's legs with in and wrap it around. If he were lucky he might even get both.

Silver grinned; this was getting interesting. Staccato may have been skillful with the shape-changing shield, but he was no match for Cris.

"Yeah! ******** 'em up!"

Staccato could not do much but land on his feet and put up his shield before the attack came. As the fist came in to hit the shield though, the shield would begin to change again as a group of four barbed spikes shot out from the side of it and aimed to hit Reinhart's shoulder. The area of the shield would be smaller because of this and it might even cause the shield to be knocked out of his hand as he fell back.

Eather way Staccato would be knocked back agains the wall. He could only hope that the barbs would stick, but even if they got in and then were pulled out by the force of the explosion they would still take out a good chunk of flesh in most cases.

There was nothing that Staccato could do. He was sweating all over and his arms were sore. He did not barely have enough strenght to stand and his energy was all but spent.

Even with all this though, Staccato still managed to give Reinhart one last cocky grin as he was sent back up and over the edge of the wall, ending his match.

The man would land on his back far down on the ground. He was luck though that he still had his Steel armor on his back though because it took most of the impact with the ground. He would lay on the ground there for a moment before slowly getting up and starting to walk toward a place where he could find a way to get back up on the wall.

She made it. Kitty was panting as she ran up to her place in the spectator's stand to do her job of ushering, attempting to put her vest on as she did so. Her boss was going to be so mad. But at least she was here for the fight of ...She glanced down at the pamplet in her hand, Team Dragonforce and ....OMG...the red haired girl started to hyperventaliate. TEAM RYUGIN!!!! Sweet!

"GO TEAM RYUGIN!!!" She pumped her fist in the air, yelling out loudly only to hear the echo of crickets, since the winner of the fight had already been announced from the ring out.

The judge trotted out, covered in armor.

He stood in the middle of the arena and raised a hand to the sky. In it was a white card.

"Team Dragonforce receives a white card due to ringout. Round one has ended; round two will start now."

Then he shambled offstage to allow the next pair to step up. Or if Reinhart wished to continue against a new competitor.

"Well..." Kitty felt a swat at her a** and turned around to glare at the offender, only to see her boss. She stuck her tongue out at him while he pointed down to the two teams.

" Go offer the teams some drinks or something." She stuck her tongue out at him again and grabbed the basic brochere which listed all they had to offer. It was Kitty's job to get them drinks or snacks and be a general gofer. And she'd gotten this location. Though that would change next round. She wondered where she'd go next...She squealed, though not nearly as loudly as she ran down the steps and looked at the two sets of fighters, wondering who she should ask first for their drink orders.

"I....ummm..." Her face was bright red. Her sensei had gotten her this job but she was too flustered to remember any of the training. "Who wants drinks..." She whispered, afraid of making another commotion like before.

Staccato would Smile then Bow also. He had a lot of respect for Reinhart and he hoped that they would meet again after the tournament. Maybe they could have a friendly spar some time.

"Thank you also, It was a real great time."

Staccato would then rub his lower back just under the armor and chuckle a little.

"I think I will need to go to a spa after this tournament. My back is really sore now. We are a whole lot higher up that I originally relised."

Silver grinned as his Stuccato barreled over the edge of the wall. As soon as the two were finished with the pleasantries, he stepped up to the battle zone.

"You did well, man. Take a well deserved rest."

It was quite obvious by his stance that he was quite ready for the next match, and that he intended to be the combatant. It shown in his eyes that he was hungry for the thrill of combat, and he wouldn't be contained any longer. He would be the next to fight, and nothing would stand in his way.

She skittered over then stopped before the two fighters, looking at each one in turn. She was short, about 5 foot tall, and curvy but her face was sprinkled with just the lightest dusting of freckles that blended in with the blush now covering her cheeks.

"Drinks?" Offering each of them a brochure on what they had to offer. No alcoholic drinks during the match, but pretty much anything else was game. But her eyes then became glued to Reinhart."omg omg omg...breathe..." She was only a few inches away....she wasn't going to squeal like a fangirl. She wasn't.

After taking a look through the Brochure, Staccato finally decide on one of the many generic flavored waters. He wanted one that had something good in it and ended up picking the lime flavored one.

"I will take one of these please."

Staccato said as he showed it too her on the Brouchure. Then he turned to Reinhart.

"So what do you think is happening in the other matches?"

"Hmm.."

Reinhart folded his arms as he looked to Stacc whom also ordered something to drink. Guess no one else wanted anything, they may get a cramp or something. That'd be funny.

"The other matches? Well I'm sure they got a monitor around here somewhere for us to watch if we so felt like it but why bother? I like being in the action if not part of it."

Placing his hand on Stacc's shoulder he smiled.

"You're not done yet, you're still a potential Striker for your teammates."

Then he watched the little red head bounce away.

"Perky little thing."

"I don't plan on doing a Striker for anyone, I already got my piece of the action anyway, but I do have a couple of tricks left."

Couple? Right, more like a couple dozen. Reinhart had gotten lucky his strategy to knock Stacc off the wall worked out well, even luckier that his teammates didn't Striker for him. It was a good match through and through from his point of view and there was never any real reason not to be friends after. Or at least a good sport.

"Starstruck? By me?"

Reinhart pointed at himself with a look of disbelief, fake as it was he was only playing around.

"Nah. She's all over you Staccato. I'm the one bleeding."

Or the one who was bleeding as the strands were now gone and the hole he had in his shoulder was now taking the color and form of his skin.

"Well, I am will striker as long as my teammates will need it. If they don't though then I will just sit here and wait."

Staccato in truth did not have many tricks, but the ones he did have was rather versitle. So they usually came in handy during any fight he was a part of. Staccato was happy with his part in the match, and he was always making friends with those he faught against. He liked to get to know them.

"Naw, I fell off the side of this place, that is not cool at all. I bet I looked like a turtle when I landed on my back."

Staccato was having fun now. Just joking around about it. He was not interested in a girls at all. He was already arranged to marry someone as soon as he took over his families estate.

As the girl handed him the drink He would look at her with only the most mild of interest. Thinking about how he had never met the person who would become his wife.

"My name is Staccato, and thank you for the Drink."

Kitty about choked; she could feel her face going bright red as she stood there slightly slack jawed. "I ...uh...mmm..."She wasn't going to...who was she kidding, of course she was. She whimpered.

"M...mister Reinhart, sir...I need my hand..." If she kept up this amount of blushing, she was going to faint. "That is..." She glanced around to make sure her boss wasn't watching. "C...could I have your autograph?"

"Oh!"

Reinhart let go oh the girls hand turning red himself since he was emberassed.

"Sorry about that."

He was laughing nervously now as she asked for his autograph he smiled brightly.

"Of course you can."

Then he laughed again at Stacc's comment.

"I'd like to say I have that effect on women but I'd be lying Staccato."

He alguhed again.

"Anyone got a pen? I'm sure you want Staccato's autograph too."

Now he bumped Satcc lightly with his shoulder playfully, he deserved the recognition.

Silver grinned and shot a glance back at Reinhart.

"You're such a flirt, you know that?"

It was all in the spirit of fun, obviously.

"A pleasure to meet you Kitty, my name's...."

The he realised she probably already knew it but said it anyway.

"...Well you know it but my name's Cristopher Reinhart."

After a second or two he looked around.

"You want us to sign a book, napkin, piece of paper?"

Reinhart looking around for anything he could sign, hell he'd sign a stone if he could. He heard Silver after then laughed again.

"I know right."

The capt. had to be the capt. after all and he was being playful now as everyone else was. Winking soon after at Stacc whom thanked him.

((Small edit at the end there.))

Laughing out loud Reinhart looked at Stacc wondering what his reaction would be. Shortly after he knelt down and looked to the girls thigh.

"I'll take this spot."

And so he signed his name which was actually good enough to read if not a bit too pretty for Reinhart. Hell, he had nice handwriting sue him. After he was done he handed the pen to Stacc and waited wondering what spot he would choose.

((Gotta go guys, be back later.))

As if coming out of a daze, Nayko found himself besides his trusted teammates overviewing the fight of Cris and Staccato. In a rush, the last few minutes came to his recollection, and he felt a subtle glow in his heart as he watched the tender Reinhart lash out violently against his opponent. It seemed rather bizzare that someone who, only a few minutes early had helped ease his tension, now roared in a ballistic fury trying to render the man off the wall.

When Staccato flew, Nayko's wings flinched. Should he dive after him, he thought. But it was too late, by the time he would have lept into the air the man already hit the ground. Nayko exhaled his worries of his own fight and took in the breath of dismay due to his failure to act. Being a Virtue meant saving and protecting the people of the word and world. "Leading me not into ill favor, for thy comfort is needed upon me." He murmered.

When the match was over, Nayko found himself unable to confront Reinhart personally. He didn't know the man well, but Cris gave him a sincerity not found in many strangers. Though they were on a team, his behavior fitted that of a saint; until he knocked a man off a wall and into his doom.

"Reinhart," Nayko yelled out from his own peevish nature, "that was an incredible first match." Nayko felt belittled by his own judgmental nature. If he assumed that he were a prime fighter, that would make his teammates true geniuses on the field. "Silver," he asked in a rather meek tone, "who is fighting next?"

Shuyin gritted his teeth as he watched Staccato fall over the edge. That's okay, we still have a chance, he thought to himself. He still wished he could have done something. Once Staccato found his way back up to the wall, Shuyin would congratulate him on a noble effort. Indeed, he had fought well.

Shuyin chuckled at the autograph signing, then looked over at Sutiiven. "Shall we flip for it, or do you want to hang back as a last resort?"

Silver shook his head, pushing his alternate forward with his left hand. Grinning, he wanted to see how his alternate would fare against Dragon Force's captain. That and Shuyin seemed keen to duke it out with their winged warrior.

"Nah... I think it's time to bring in our Guardian Angel."

Silver grinned. It wouldn't be an easy match for either Nayko or his opponent.

The sweet taste of water seemed only moments from touching his lips. The rapture of enclosing his tongue in the chilled liquid only placated his off beaten mood. He needed water, clinged to it like a dieing man, and yet his hand fell softly to his side. A press against his back ushered him toward the ring, and he found himself at an even greater discomfort. "What?" He said taking a precautious step back, but the hand never left. He found himself compelled to venture to the ring and face Team Dragonforce's Captain. "Lead me not into Oblivion." He whispered, taking his first unconfident step forward.

"Well," Nayko swallowed, spreading his legs to an awkwardly stretched distance. He extended his wings slowly flaring them out to their full span. He wiggled his fingers until he felt himself ready and then drew his stance low. His right leg led the stance, and his arms went up to his shoulders level and began sway in a rythmic motion that mimicked the waves of the ocean. He licked his lips once. The first match of the tournament and already he was fighting. This didn't bode well for his health, he figured.

A tingle hit Nayko's spine and he felt a cool rush throughout his body. An eerie sensation gripped his body and his hair stood on end. The feeling was familiar, something treasued close by. From first look, this seemed to be a fist fight, but Nayko thought his skill to be, at best, were satisfactory in comparison to these other fighters. Althought, Nayko surmised, he very well may be able to show this veterans a thing or two.

[1]

There was an intricate rythm to the monk's movements. Each time his foot hit the ground, those wooden shoes of his made a thunk that echoed throughout the vicinity of the great wall. The monk's wear betrayed his movements. Not only could Nayko see the approaching monk, but he could hear him. His eyes didn't need to watch the monk's feet, so his attention went quickly to his arms. The count came in an easily predicted order, given the sound of the monk's shoes.

His attack was quick, or so Nayko figured, but it never truly went into fruition. Nayko arched low to the ground while the beating continued and the monk came closer. Nayko had waited long enough. He sprang forward when the sound and gone, and the monk's feet were in the air. For that fraction of a second, when both the monk's legs would be in mid stride, Nayko made his move. His body surged forward and his wings drew in close. His low spread position gave him a decent spring and he ventured for a direct attack. His body sailed like a javeline through the small distance between the two. Nayko dove out with his arms in front of his face, and his wings tight against his back. The monk wasn't a fool, but he certainly couldn't anticipate such a hazardous attempt to attack, nor could he truly defend himself when he was committed to running first.

[2]

The two warriors collided with extreme force and each went their own ways. Nayko found himself somewhere peaceful, somewhere he spent most of his days. Though he went their in a distasteful manner, he still found himself in the comforting air. His wings flared out and caught him as he glided across the walls with a steady descent. Landing awkwardly, Nayko rushed to his feet and turned to see his opponent. Taking no time to hinder his own defense, he returned to that low arching stance and awaited next move. His senses kept a steady tugging on that strange tingling he felt around him. His body quivered again, most likely due to anticipation.

[3]

Nayko lured this man into a state of caution; which, given his seasoned fighting experience, seemed only natural. However, this little game of tag wasn't going to be Nayko's trump card. He knew how to fight, and he knew that he better start playing serisouly or else this man might best him in this contest. Nayko's nervousness began to leave him. He found himself smiling at his encroaching opponent, and he too began to shuffle forward. When the monk and Nayko came close, Nayko decided to throw the first punch. His body lurched forward, his feet spaced and his left arm at the ready to block.

Nayko held a great advantage over this man in terms of hand-to-hand combat. This monk had two arms and two legs, while Nayko had two arms, two legs, and a pair of large muscular wings. Nayko's body arched down, straightening with the punch. His wings elbow, following the path of the punch snapped around for a side ways strike. After the right, Nayko threw the left, his body keeping low and his left wing coming in from the side as well. The onslaught would be awkward for someone who never faced a man with wings. They did much more then simply allow flight. They were extensions of his body, and Nayko knew them well.

[4]

The monk made an error, one that wouldn't cost him the match, but one that certainly would create a few bruises. Nayko's wings collided with their targets soundly, streching farther than the Monk assumed. Nayko found this man to be very skilled, though he under estimated the angel. The punch that held a mass of ki hit Nayko unsuspectidly in the stomach and sent him sailing back. That punch could have knocked a whole throw a human. But thankfully, Nayko wasn't a human. He was a supernatural being gifted with extroardinary physical talents.

Nayko landed haphazardly and stumbled before his wings flared out, propelling himself into a steady incline. His breating came in short gasps, and he found a new nauseas feeling that overwhelmed his nervousness.

After all the wait it arrived. Nayko stayed airborne, hovering over the wall for a moment. His wings slowed in beat, and he descended cautiously. The monk seemed intent on besting Nayko, for whatever personal reason. This monk must be skilled in both the physical and metaphysical realm. Nayko found the concept strange, for the only monks he knew worshipped the Celestials and would never dare raise a hand to them. Nayko's feet touched down on the stone wall, his breathing back to normal and his mind alert.

The flow of water is a constant thing. A silent trickle of water defied gravity and climbed up the wall behind the monk. Deception was a powerful tactic that Nayko used often. His snake like contruct of summoned ground water rekindled a lost fire in his eyes. A blue hue encompassed his already soft eyes, giving them a faint glow. Virtues, fifth choir of the Celestial Choir, were gifted with the control over the physical world with a spiritual connection.

The slithering trail of water lifted from the rock and hardened into several orbs of thick ice. Nayko knew the advantage to a sneak attack, and couldn't let it go. He rushed forward, his body low and his wings extended. He came up to the monk, his body leaping up and his wings beating. His body was too far from the monk to hit when he went airborne. His hovering ice balls leapt at the monk the moment Nayko did. The angel's wings compressed and he dove down in a flying kick. The orbs of ice sailed through the air to the back of the monk with incredible velocity. The monk, able to no doubt dodge the falling kick, would not expect the barrage of marble sized ice orbs coming at him.

[5]

In response to Stacc, Reinhart raised his glass in agreement.

"Aye!"

Then took a long sip of his Iced Caramel Macchiato, sweet. This was getting fun if anything and now Nayko was fighting the Capt. of the opposing team.

((Earlier Response to Nayko after the match was over.))

Reinhart simply tilted his head slightly and smiled at Nayko glad he'd joined them on stage. The manner in which he tilted his head would reveal the right side of his face and his right eye. Which to most was down right odd seeing it was blood red as opposed to the left eye which was ice blue.

It was a short moment but the look he gave Nayko would say it all, or so he hoped.

((Back to now.))

After a couple of sips of his drink Reinhart wondered if the opposing team would mind Stacc being over on Ryugin's side. Well, everyone looked rather honorable so there shouldn't be a need to worry about such things. Stacc was a cool guy and lost gracefully he like everyone else deserved a drink.

"Doing good."

Reinhart said using his straw to point at Nayko shooting his voice more towards Silver than anyone else. Hell, no way Ryugi would hear it, he was playing Mr. Flashy standing on that perch.

"What?!"

Shuyin sensed it a second too late - something flying at him from behind. A striker? But he hadn't seen the others move to attack, impossi--

The first ice ball struck him in the back and Shuyin whirled around, getting struck in the side, and then a third time in his shoulder, before he would breathe out a cone of fire thirty-feet long, from his mouth, to take care of the rest. He was saving that up for Nayko, but better to use it to save his own hide. He hated the cold. Unfortunately, this action would put his back to Nayko, but hopefully he was far back enough to not be able to take advantage of the monk's distraction.

(6)

((Nice. 1-round recharge.))

Shuyin needed only a moment. Steam, a warm gas, would get blown away from Shuyin as he hopped up into the air with a spinning kick, and continued to revolve around, the wind kicked up serving to blow the steam away from him, as well as dry him off. This was the tatsumaki senpukyaku, or hurricane kick, as it was known in the West. He would hover in the air, spinning around with his leg sticking out like a propeller, for a few seconds before dropping back to the ground, gritting his teeth and rubbing his neck. If within that time Nayko happened to get in the way of his foot, sucks for him. If not, Shuyin would see him immediately, dancing back on hit feet and waving his arms to block or parry as many hits as he could, though one or two would eventually slip through, cutting his left cheek and hitting his right pectoral, getting dangerously close to the side of the wall.

(7)

It takes quite a bit of pressure to move a 190-pound half-dragon, even if he was a foot or so in the air, though it'd probably take some time to build up that kind of pressure, especially from using droplets of water that was once steam - if that kind of pressure from that amount of source was even possible. It'd certainly take more time than the few seconds he actually remained in the air, spinning around. Gases didn't exactly hold the same kind of mass as liquid, afterall. As such, Shuyin wouldn't actually be going anywhere, unless there was some endless font of water underneath him; he'd just be wet.

Turning an annoyed glare to Nayko, Shuyin sucked in a breath and unleashed another thirty-foot cone of fire, spreading out to engulf the angel.

( 8 )

((I have no idea what that is, but ok.))

Nayko's tactics were never short handed. The water he controlled wasn't used like some meager squirt gun that's only purpose is to fling the liquid. It contorted to his every whim whether it be phase shifting, moving, or eradicating it. Therefore, when the monk assumed that his body now was getting wet, he placed himself into a very dangerous mind set. The water that had been removed, was now back onto the monk. His intake of breath told Nayko that he was in for an immense world of hurt. Taking a que from his trained instincts, he froze the non-dripping water which covered the monk.

Though the layer was thin, the surge of ice would no doubt throw him for a loop. In which case, Nayko, consumed with fear, concentrated the ice into a thick chilled bracer around the monk's jaw, locking it in place. Since the breath needed to spew a thirty foot plume of fire would no doubt take some air, his reaction time probably wouldn't be enough to release that bad boy burner. Nayko used, what would no doubt be a timely effort, to collect another set of water he had en route from his source. He found the situation somewhat intriguing, and rather bizzare; seeing as how there seemed to be a vast amount of water coming from nowhere. The liquid formed a thick wide headed club, which Nayko swung at the monk. His body free, the monk could defend himself. But his jaw was being compressed by a thick, slippery ice cast that tightened considerably with each of the monks movements.

[9]

((In reponds to Darsh after my match with Reinhart))

Staccato, only made a simple nod in responds. He felt bad because he let his captain down, but he took the compliment as it was. Regardless of how of any feelings that he might of had that doing good was not good enough.

((During the match))

Sitting next to Reinhart, Staccato did not even have a second thought about what his team mates might think of him sitting with the other team. He was sure they did not mind it. Besides this particualar postion on the wall would give him a diffrent point of view for a striker, which may or may not allow for a better oppertunity

"So, you like how the fight is going so far?"

Staccato said, directing his comment toward Reinhart.

STRIKER

Type: Offensive

If Nayko was trying to choke Shuyin, he was doing it in the wrong manner. Liquid wasn't exactly a good strangling tool, since bodies were solid and liquids usually formed around solids. Now if he had made that water go into Shuyin's mouth or nose and into his throat and lungs, maybe then it would have had the desired effect. As such, Shuyin was only annoyed by the ring of water contorting around his neck. He thrust his hands forward and shot a fireball of ki energy, timing it's release after Sutiiven's kick, and hoping it would push Nayko right into the fireball's trajectory, aimed to impact against his chest, with little opportunity to evade.

(10)

There was nothing more Reinhart enjoyed than watching or participating in a good fight and maybe enjoying a drink. Standing with his drink in hand he watched Nayko try time and time again to choke the fire breathing monk. Honestly, the monk reminded him of something he'd seen in the circus as a kid. Sipping his drink he watched and merely waited for the match to be over or maybe even jump in to Striker for Nayko.

Seeing there was no real reason to do so at the moment and that Reinhart felt like Nayko should either win or lose alone he stood still next to Stacc.

"Looks good so far, though I'm afraid of getting my eyebrows burnt off by the fire breathing monk."

Another nervous laugh and Reinhart continued sipping his drink even as Dragonforce used it's own Striker.

Staccato was also standing there. He had finished his drink a long time ago and was really just staying there because one it would be difficult to get over to his teams side with all the fighting and two because he rather liked talking to Reinhart.

Staccato would only Striker if he felt that he was really needed in the fight, and seeing that Sutiiven had already done his part, Staccato felt that he might not be needed. It would all depend on how things went.

"Yeah, I did not even know he could breath fire. If I had, I would have brought some marshmellows."

Staccato was not sure if he had gone to far that time and he hoped that Shuyin had not heard him, though with even if he had, it would not suprise him if his team captain would at least find it amusing and not offesive.

Laughing Reinhart folded his arms, his drink now gone he kept a watchful eye ont eh fight though Stacc had made him laugh.

"Hating on the Captain eh? Hehehe."

Of course he was being sarcastic and he too played with Silver once in a while even if it was just scaring him.

"Looks like the round's nearing it's end, we may have a third round on our hands."

With his eye narrowing at his own statement he mentally pushed the thought of Nayko losing aside. The two fighters seemed to be at a stalemate as far as knocking each other out was concerned.

Reinharts words drifted weightlessly in the air and danced in Nayko's ears. A third round wasn't necessary, or so he thought. Reinharts teasing only brought a frustration to Nayko that only placated his irritation for the matches drawn out course. Nayko, also, was tired of this and wanted to end it. He knew the tactic of the man and smiled as he ran forward. The man didn't know where he got his surpluss of water, for if he had, he'd know that the dirt wouldn't aid him now. The fine gravel which came from the stone floor of the walls floor wouldn't absorb the water as well as he thought. In fact, it would only be absorbed in the liquid band. The gravel gave the water more shape, and so made it a more effective choker.

The monk, however, didn't allow that. With the water easily obtained, he discarded and left it to the ground. Nayko hurtled himself forward, his wings flared and his hands open. The puddle which came from his staff ran up his feet and wrapped about his body. Collecting further moisture from the source Nayko discovered, he encased his entire body in a watery layer that glistened in the light. The discarded and neglected water at the monk's feet rose, a piece of gravel at the center of each of the droplettes. The rock filled water rose up and assaulted the monk, striking at him from underneath, while Nayko surged forward and threw out his arm. The sleeve of water around it hurtled off and formed several thin needles that flew toward the monk who stood preparing his next attack.

[12]

Nothing in this match was done intentionally. From the moment the two fighters stepped into the ring, they had a plan. Each step they took led them down the path of glory. Nayko didn't have the physical strength and skill that this monk did. So besting him in straight head-to-head combat would have been rather foolish. Instead, he kept to his wits. The needle projectiles flung so eagerly were not, in any way, meant to act as an attack. They were a signal. Nayko needed to know the precise moment when the monk would have unleashed his attack. The pelting water that held the gravel was used the same way. Nayko's spirit is connected to all water, in any form, and is able to know of it and sense its movements. When the water came in contact with the monk, he knew of his bodies positions. When the ball of energy demolished the wave of pin needles, he knew when to fly.

Nayko's wings gave a mighty beat and his legs lunged him into the air. His body soared over the might blast propelled by his wings and the momentum of his run. He drew the remaining water from his body hastily crafted a sheet of ice that encompassed an area around the monk. Descending onto the monk was a thick plate of ice, too wide to avoid and too sturdy to be ignored. Nayko held his breath as he drifted downwards. He prayed that the monk wouldn't expect such an attack, and that he would be to fatigued to avoid the massive falling sheet of ice.

[13]

The ice shards flew about him, and encircled the jumping monk. He had passed the ice sheet, hurtling himself into the air with his fist raised high. Nayko had hoped it would be enough to render him unconscious, but he underestimated the monk. With his own form falling toward the rising monk, he knew what he'd need to do. His hands clasped about the rising monk's wrist and his wings gave another mighty beat. The two jerked up into the heaven's and above the wall. Nayko, confident that the man would not be killed, let him go, sending him off with a kick to his exposed side. The monk would no doubt be sent across the wall and out of the ring, ending their match.

[14]

Oh, what a mistake that was. Shuyin was actually surprised the angel would even do something like that, though he saw the intent behind it. He meant to throw him off the wall. Shuyin wasn't going out like that though. He curled his arm, pulling himself up and wrapping his legs around Nayko's waist, grunting from the exertion. With his left hand, he reached around to grab Nayko's wing to pull on it, and dangerously affect his manueverability in the air. Suicidal? A little. Did he have a plan? Making it up as he goes along.

(14)

This was not good. Shuyin slid off the lubed up angel and went into a fall. He spun around so he was facing the ground and spread his arms and legs, controlling his fall. Too bad there weren't any walls up this high, or he would be able to slow himself down. If only he were born with dragon wings too...

Shuyin had to think quick, and think fast; the wall was rushing up to meet him. Pulling his gi off and holding onto it tight so it wasn't blown away, Shuyin rigged a makeshift parachute, but it would only serve to slow his fall a little. Still, that slight difference would bring those large chunks of ice that were following him to the ground closer. He swung out with a claw, latching onto one and clawing his way up along it, causing it to fall slightly faster than the other. Shuyin lined himself up with the other chunk of ice. He would spring off just before it would slam into ground, catching on and climbing fast, then spinging off the second ice chunk, dropping into a roll onto the fighting area of the wall, littered with chunks and shards of ice, rolling for several feet before just flopping down onto his hands and knees, catching his breath. The effort left him exhausted, muscles burning, and still only two actions to go before the end of the round. He needed to last just a little longer if he wanted his team to go on.

(15)

STRIKER

Ation: Defensive

THUNK! Shuyin looked up to see a metal ice pick sticking in the block of ice. He grabbed the pick as the ice liquiefied and the pick dropped through. Shuyin shimmied up the rope as fast as he could as it sail through the air, vanishing over the edge of the wall. The rope would then go slack. A moment later, a clawed hand came up over the edge of the wall, clawing into the stone. Shuyin pulled himself back up, rolling over the edge and getting up to his feet, stumbling over to the back plate and using it for support, catching his breath. Shuyin looked over his shoulder, giving a thumbs-up to Staccato, because he was too out of breath at the moment to speak his thanks.

(16)

Darshendros the Eternal Wrote:

THUNK! Shuyin looked up to see a metal ice pick sticking in the block of ice. He grabbed the pick as the ice liquiefied and the pick dropped through. Shuyin shimmied up the rope as fast as he could as it sail through the air--

Those stationery ice chunks weren't floating in the air waiting for the sun to go down. They had been left up in the air for an occasion like this. Shuyin held his own during the match, and perhaps even bested Nayko on most of the occasions they went toe to toe. But it all came to a close. With Shuyin's desperate climb to the surface came to be what Nayko planned to be his undoing. The free floating chunks of ice made a mad dash at the rope in which Shuyin now climbed. The rope held strong, being constructed from metal would allow it to withstand a barrage from ice. But the ice didn't stop there. The form quickly reverted into that slippery watery layer which seeped down the rope to where the monk held. The entire rope was covered in the substance, and the monk would not be able to maintain his grip if he wished to continue climbing.

To seal the deal, Nayko shifted the path of the remaining ice pieces to plumet down and halt Shuyin's climb; striking him in the head, shoulders and hands. Nayko let it all go. Every bit of water needed to do its part. From the ground below, tendrils of water sprouted up in gysers to spray Shuyin with the liquid doom. The water covering him froze in sections at his feet to create weights which would try to bring him down. Between the slickened rope, the pelting shards, and the heavy ice, there seemed to be no way for the monk to make it up the rope. Nayko was tired, and he wanted this to end. He descended onto the wall and snatched up a puddle of water to create rod of ice. If the monk made it up, Nayko would be waiting to greet him with a blow to whatever he saw. He knew now that Team Dragon Force would try to halt his victory at any chance. Nayko remained alert, feeling the monk through the water, and watching the teammates with his eyes.

[Final]

Silver clapped his hands together, obviously pleased with the way this match was going. Even if the round had ended in a draw, Nayko had fought valiantly. All they had to do was win this final round to seal victory for their team.

"Excellent, excellent! That was an incredible display of endurance from the both of you!"

They didn't even striker in support of his friend, but they always liked to save those for the final moments when they needed it most. Not that they've ever used a striker, but whatever.

((Sorry about not being able to support you, mang; I had the stomach flu.))

Kitty watched everything with excitement, refusing to giggle when Reinhart and Staccato signed her thigh or anything. She was rather pleased with herself. Once she checked with her boss about her next assignment, she made her way over to the crumpled ruins of the Tower where several people were standing around watching the fight, but she still had a pretty clear view.

"Go Ryugin...go..." She cheered, though not as loudly as last time, only a few people nearby would hear her.

Kitty glanced up. Was it?! It was!!! The red haired girl got extremely excited and glanced down at her jeans. Maybe she could get another autograph. Pushign through a few people, she climbed the tower up next to Ryugi, giving him a beautiful smile, hoping her obss wasn'tseeing her risk her neck on work time.

"Excuse me, Mister Kazamaru?"

She finished climbing, sitting down where he has stood...previously. "Umm...Mister Kazamaru? You okay?" She hadn't expected him to be well...so clumsy. She looked down and giggled, he looked silly and rather...well, human. Or mortal at least.

Kitty swung down, going down a lot easier than she went up, swinging around the pillar until she landed with a grace that said she wasn't -quite- your average teenager.

She bowed and then gave him another one of her beaming smiled. "Sorry for all the trouble, I just wanted to get your autograph."

Kitty giggled. "So cute..." She all but squealed, "You sound just like that cartoon dragon my little cousin watches at home." He was adorable but Kitty was a girl on a mission.

"An Ah toe grr ahh fuh is where you sign your name to a piece of paper, or in this case, my jeans so I can show off the fact that I met you to all my friends." She braced one leg on the wall like a ballerina and showed him Reinhart's signature.

"Though you can pick any spot you want."

She smiled and handed him a pen. "Just don't sign on top of the others." He was smart enough not to do that surely, but he had an naivete about him that made it possible and she didn't want anything to ruin this event for her.

She giggled, "I wonder why everyone's liking to sign the thigh." She didn't mind, it was only mildly embarrassing. Then as he stood up it sank in her brain. This was Ryugi Kazamaru, one of the guys who'd almost beaten Glacier...hmmh...Glacier...Sunstrike...She has to remember to get Sunstrike's autograph at some point.

"Thank you, Mister Kazamaru. And good luck." She bowed again and grinned bigger. It was then he would catch sight of the fang on her outer lip from her upper canines. She wasn't completely human herself.

"Kitty. Kitty Faen." She held out her hand for a shake. He was a lot more 'human' than she'd expected. "It was really a pleasure. I had to sit out watching HoH live last year, so I'm thrilled I could be here this year."

She nodded, he'd gotten her name wrong, but it happened all the time. She was used to it by now. " You're strange, Mister Kazamaru. It's rare to find someone who really is happy making others happy."

"It's alright." Her smile was warm. "I'm rather used to it. Doesn't even phase me anymore."

Responding to Stacc as he returned from Striking for the monk Reinhart still stood with his arms crossed facing forward.

"Looks like we'll get the chance after all, I hope Nayko doesn't feel too bad he didn't score a victory."

And as Nayko finished the round Reinhart would clap for him, it was a good display of skills and endurance. Nayko possesed above average control over water too, how inteesting. One more match to go, who would be next? Silver or Ryugi?

Staccato just smiled at Reinhart. A little preoccupied with his thoughts on what might see from Sutiiven in this next fight. this othe teammate of his had never used his true abilities in a spar with them. He was eager to see just how powerful this person might be.

After a moment he did speak though. Almost as an after thought.

"I could not let Nayko win in such a way. He would regret it later on."

Shuyin would join Staccato and Reinhart, after recovering enough energy to stand and move on his own. He planted himself down on the ground. "I could use a bit of that ice right now. Man, I'm sore."

Silver Moonblade Wrote:

"You're up, dragon boy." So I guessed.

Ryugi grinned at Silver in his usual way. He then took some time to do a few stretches and crack his back, neck and knuckles. He needed to stretch a bit to loosen up. He hadn't actually fought against an opponent for months. He'd trained, sure, but he hadn't fought an opponent for quite some time.

"Thank you," Shuyin said with a smile, taking the frozen cup and putting it behind his head. A drink would be nice too, now that he thought about it.

"I'm glad we'll get to see Sutiiven fight. Maybe we'll finally get to see his full potential now." Shuyin chuckled, thinking of all the times he sparred with the swordsman.

[2] Ryugi grasped Ragnarok on his back, hefting the sword to his shoulder. As soon as he did this, a pulse of energy would be felt my all magical types. Ryugi's teammates would IMMEDIATELY notice a difference in his power from last year...

Leftover water on the ground around Ryugi in a radius of three to four feet would begin steaming as the heat from Ryugi slowly began to evaporate the liquid. His friendly gaze was gone, and had been replaced by one of pure determination and focus. His resolve was strong ... unbreakable resolve.

Let us begin this...

[Post 1]

Sutiiven was well aware of his time limit, and wasted no time initiating combat. He rushed in towards his opponent full speed, and slashed his right hand blade at his opponents face, leaving the second blade open for defensive manuvers if needed.

[2]

Sutii grimmaced and put up his left hand blade in order to cover some of the damage. Due to its ice properties, it absorbed some of the damage, but still caused the swordsman to get seriously burned. Landing on his back, he rolled back onto his feat and pushed off in a backflip, barely dodging the Fire Lance as it went under him. He began to perspire as he felt the heat lick at him.

Finishing the flip, he landed on his feet, and prepared for the next attack.

[3]

Rykono Tadaya Wrote:

Before anyone could ask, Nayko whipped up a tendril of water and crafted seven goblets carved elegantly out of ice. A second tendril rose up and filled each of the seven goblets, which drifted silently toward their respective person. "Praise he, who let us come together and marvel in one another's ability!" Nayko said trying to be enthusiastic. Trth be told, he was miserable. His wings were chared and aching, and he didn't feel like cleaning the water off of them right now. The dampened feathers would only become bothersome sooner than later, but he detested doing anything hygenic at the moment.

Nayko ushered himself toward the standing teams and bowed low to Shuyin. "Honorable Monk, you're skills are truly impressive. I fear that if we were to ever bout again, you'd surely come out the victor." Nayko smiled at his competition, no longer feeling nervous towards their presence. His part was done, for now, and he could relax and watch his friend do something spectacular. "Ryugi, show them the true meaning of strength." He nodded incouragingly toward his teammate and took the task of finding a seat. "Blessed are those who fight and live." He muttered sitting down and attending to his burnt wing. "It was an honor to fight against you," Shuyin replied, smiling, "Though unless I suddenly grow wings of my own, I think the results would be the same if we fought again." At that, he chuckled softly, then sipped his drink.

"Come, sit with us, and if you don't mind, conjure up some of that ice to soothe my aches, if you'd please."

Shuyin then turned his attention to the final fight, between Sutiiven and Ryugi.

Sutiiven Wrote:

As soon as Ryugi was in striking range, Sutii sidestepped the charging man, facing his open left side...

[4] [4] Ryugi was not the kind of person to simply charge into a situation he wasn't generally prepared for. Linear as the course set up might have been, Ryugi was well aware there was enough room for a person to zip to the side and avoid an attack. Ryugi had charged down the middle of the wall in order to leave as little maneuvering room as possible on both sides (about 7 feet). Sutii had pulled a marvelous move by sidestepping, causing Ryugi's momentum to keep him moving in the direction of his charge, however, Ryugi had yet to unleash all of his tricks.

He was almost certain the man was going to sidestep rather than clash head on, and as such, he was prepared for something of that nature. As Ryugi saw Sutii's body shift to his left, Ryugi twisted his body around, his feet skidding along the rocky stone of the wall as he turned to bear on his opponent, letting lose with a pulse of heat energy in the opposite direction to slow his body as he swung Ragnarok into a vertical blocking position.

-CLANG!-

The first hit was blocked as it was deflected by the mighty dragon's sword, and Ryugi dipped low under the blade's protection, the sword still protecting him.

-CLANG!-

The second blow came into contact with the weapon, and Ryugi acted quickly as Sutii would have to move his blades into the position for their third and final strike. Instead of backing off, Ryugi pushed off of the ground towards Sutii, aiming to ram the fighter with Ragnarok as the small white specs quickly grew into solid crystals that zipped around Ryugi's body, protecting him from any immediate threat for the time being...

Quote: *Crystalization-

This technique was gained from Ryugi's travels in the fire elemental plane. The fire element is forced into a solid crystal that is on par with the hardness and sharpness of diamond, and due to the intense heat and pressure within the crystals, they have massive cutting power, easily capable of piercing the thickest and hardest of materials with relative ease. Even solid metal cannot withstand these crystals for long. If so chosen, the crystals can cut into a solid force, and then explode for massive damage to an opponent. -50 damage for each crystal exploded, can be created from ambient flame energy and energy from aura-

Sutii was blown back slightly by the crystals, grinding into the ground. He recovered quickly with another back push to his feet, landing again. Blood dripped from his mouth, and he was covered in minor burns. He grimaced, and began muttering something under his breath.

Quote: Double Dragon Enchantment: Sutiiven activates the spell engraved into his magic weapons. (No Charge) (Instantanious Effect)(Element: Fire, Ice) (Arcane Ability)

The runes on his magic blades flashed, and suddenly the weapons glowed with flames of burning fire (right hand) and freezing ice(left hand). He ran and jumped into the air, coming down with both blades, attempting to gash Ryugi with his now enchanted weapons.

[5]

((Computer issues. Gotta restart. I'll see you tomorrow))

Erik moved into the stands, making way for Jessica who clutched onto his arm as they made their way towards the front of the crowd. Erik had smartly left his crown back in the hotel room, they wanted to draw as little attention to Jessica right now as possible. They simply looked like a well to do couple, enjoying a bit of coarse entertainment.

"This way, Jess.."

The platinum blond looked out over the crowd and into the fighting group. "This is so interesting..." Her tone was slightly dull but she put on a brave face. The dark haired man just grinned and cast a glance out to the fighters as well. This was the recommended fight other than Glacier at the moment so it sounded interesting. He should look and see who was on the team, and if any of them looked like they might be for hire.

So they stood there watching; when Jessica got a chill, he threw his trench around her shoulders and pressed her into the crook of his arm as they watched the fighters, and he perused the brochure. "Team Dragonforce and Team Ryugin..." He didn't look at the names listed beneath just yet. "Interesting names at least."

It seemed that Ryugi would outshine them all this match, as gave a display of talent befitting his reputation. Nayko found his roars both amusing and reassuring. The will to fight and the will to survive were the essential components a combatent needed in order to obtain victory. Shuyin's determination to make it through their match placated Nayko's opinion, and he felt more at ease as the tournament progressed.

Shuyin then turned and asked for some ice. The thought puzzled Nayko at first, but a scripture about human anatomy suddenly sprang into his mind and he recalled a passage detailing that extreme cold numbed pain. The physiological differences between the two warriors, though minute in appearance, seemed far more grand when broken down piece by piece. "I cannot refuse giving aid to someone in need. Even if you were my enemy before, you stand here now, as my friend." Nayko's minded clouded suddenly, and the fatigue from his fight caught him in a great rush. He stumbled trying to stand, but finally he managed to gain enough composure to steady his legs and his mind. "Almost lost myself there." He chuckled taking a sip from his drink."

The familiar feel of water came from underneath him, like it did during the match. He focused his thoughts around the hidden resevoir and drew up a small gyser that streaked into the sky. "Truthfully, you only fell prey to chance. If there wasn't any water channelled here from the tower's collapse, I might not have been able to keep things even between us. I succeeded in not failing only by the chance of location and circumstance. Then again, it was most likely willed by the Higher that we had to fight. I've learned a great deal about my own ability, not to mention the unpredictable nature of my enemy. For that, I can only say that I am blessed to have faced you, dear Monk." Nayko bowed once more, but kept his eyes on Ryugi. He knew that he'd need to gain a lot more then just minor details about is failed attacks. Nayko needed to learn the fire of the fight that drove his teammates.

Sutiiven landed and slashed, and to his surprise, he would hear a CLANG. But this wasn't from Ryugi's body, no. This was from Ragnarok hitting the ground as Ryugi dropped the weapon. And as Sutiiven looked, he would see Ryugi in a braced position, with fierce determination in his eyes...and Sutiiven's two swords caught in his gloved hands...

Quote: Gloves - Ryugi's gloves are fireproof/heat resistant as well and have thick layers of woven dragonsteel into the palms as well as a plate across the back of the hand, allowing him to be able to grasp swords and other sharp objects without fear of injuring his hands. Unknown to all but Ryugi himself, the palms of the gloves are also given a special weave into the dragonsteel threads. This weave serves as an energy leyline, and allows for easier transfer of energy to, and from, Ragnarok for use by the fighter. The tips of the fingers on the gloves are covered with small claw like tips that can act as scratching or slashing tools against an opponent.

As Sutiiven's enchanted blades made contact with Ryugi's hands, he siphoned more energy from the blades, giving him a total of 12 turns of energy. Ryugi's aura pulsed hotter and hotter around his body, the temperature now hot enough to cause second and third degree burns to an opponent only five feet away from him. The razor sharp crystals spun around Ryugi's form, protecting him from direct attacks, along with the searing heat of his energy, but they did not move to attack...

Ryugi gripped the swords HARD in his grasp, refusing to let them leave without a fight, and as if to put a period to the end of his statement, he yanked the blades towards his form, to either side of his body, and at the same time, Ryugi's heavy armored boot headed straight towards the open and unprotected chest of Sutii. [12]

[post 6]

[14] Now, Ryugi may have been a fire elemental, but he was NOT a fire dragon. In fact, he was a gold dragon, and one of the benefits of being a gold dragon was that extreme temperatures, be it hot or cold, didn't really effect him much. Hence how he could wear such a warm outfit even in summer and be just fine. However, it wasn't the temperature that bugged him, it was the ice itself. Ryugi gained the energy, yes, but at a price. The strange energy flow caused a thick casing of ice to form up around his body.

The intense heat from Ryugi's flames was hot enough to cause severe burns to an opponent five feet away from him, but on his body itself, the heat was enormously more powerful. The ice was quickly balanced by the intense heat, though it still encased Ryugi's right arm. Reacting quickly, Ryugi shot almost all of his energy into his left hand, the arm glowing with brilliant red orange and white energy as he physically tore the blue ice blade away from his body, the massive amount of fire energy balancing its freezing cold, and with a single movement, gripped the icy blade in one hand, and tossed it out over the edge of the wall, effectively removing it from the fight.

Ryugi felt the extreme amount of power flowing from Sutii, but at this point, it was either remove the blade before it consumed his form in ice, or dodge the Hadouken. Hopefully Sutii would be less powerful with only one blade, especially if the other blade's twin was now gone from his grip and unable to balance the fiery twin. In a last ditch attempt to protect himself as much as possible, Ryugi crossed his arms in front of his form, and hoped for the best...

Sutiiven Wrote:

He was then thrust back, releasing the left hand blade...Sutiiven crashed into the ground again, righting himself in the manner that he did before. The difference, however, was that his hands were in a position similar to Shuyin's in the previous fight. The other weapon lay flaming at his feet.

As Sutii made ready to attack, he would suddenly become painfully aware of the trap Ryugi had set up a few moments earlier.

Ryugi Kazamaru Wrote:

The crystals zipped around to surround both the fighters and took up a position around them, still growing in size, as more tiny ones began to form.

The bigger crystals had taken up a position around Sutii and Ryugi as they had been near each other, and had stayed there as Ryugi grasped Sutii's swords. The smaller ones began to form around Ryugi's body, even as the bigger crystals sat floating all around, and above the pair of fighters...

Ryugi Kazamaru Wrote:

The razor sharp crystals spun around Ryugi's form, protecting him from direct attacks, along with the searing heat of his energy, but they did not move to attack...

And now, Ryugi made them do just that as his opponent was about to cry out, a last ditch effort to stop his opponent from attacking. As Sutii had recovered, and made ready to cry out the name of his attack, the crystallized fire energy would suddenly rain down upon his form as dozens of the crystals shot towards his form, attempting to hit him before he unleashed his attack. As the crystals rained down upon him, they would explode, doing concussive damage as well as heat damage to his opponent.

If the crystals were unable to stop the attack in time, the Ryugi, braced for the impact, would be sent screaming down the length of the wall, tumbling end over end by the sheer force of the blast. However, this was only if the crystals failed to do their job.

[post 7]

((Have to go again... bloody schedule. Will post after striker move tomorrow.))

Jessica's eyes widened as she saw the display, unable to resist the urge to squeal with the shining of auras. Then again, Jess didn't know this wasn't a normal thing, what with a chopped memory and all. She took a lot of things for granted or simply didn't notice them at all.

Like not seeing several people in the audience staring at her wind spun platinum hair blowing in the chilled breeze, her face flushed with excitement or the rape of her body by Erik's eyes after she had removed her jacket. Erik noticed though, and grabbed her opposite shoulder and pulled her towards him.

"Owww...Erik, that hurts." She winced, but didn't say anything as he didn't release her and she tried simply to pay more attention to the fight.

There wasn't much Reinhart felt like doing as he stood there with the rest of his team and a portion of Team Dragonforce. Ryugi seemed to have the upper hand on Sutti and as before when Nayko fought he felt no need to Striker. Sides, he believed if they couldn't make it past the first round without help then they'd be gone by the second.

No offense to anyone but he usually was a hard a**, he just hid it pretty well and knew how to let it go when needed.

The striker was all Sutii needed to get the Hadouken off, causing it to launch at Ryugi whom was braced for the impact. Unhindered by the pain of countless explosions due to the quick thinking of Shuyin, he managed to perform yet another backflip out of the way of the ones coming from above him. He was scathed slightly by one of the explosions from them as they hit the ground where he had stood, but his body was already too well beaten to care.

When he landed he was holding something - not his swords, but something just as sharp that he kept hidden on his body for times like this.

Quote: Sword Rain: Sutiiven takes multiple kunai and hurls them all at the opponent. Accuracy and Power varies from a sparatic scatter to a focused arrow depending on number of kunai thrown and range. (Usually in these incriments: 3, 5, 7, and 15, as well as 30 and 45 on rare occasions.) (Charge: 1 Turn)

Quote: Magnitude: 30

After fanning out some of his kunai like playing cards, he began hurling them quickly, one after the other, sometimes in groups of 2 or 3, at Ryugi, until he had thrown 30 of his 45. If he had been quick enough, the blades would be able to reach the dragon before he had time to completely recover from the effects of the Hadouken. When he had thrown the lot, Sutii brandished two of them for main weapons until he could get his other weapon back. Re-armed with steel and determination, he faced his opponent.

Status Update Wrote:

Remaining Kunai Stock: 15

[8]

Sutiiven's eyes widened as a massive fireball of a dragon surged towards him.

"He... Ascended?!"

It was all he could do to get out of the way of the aura that surrounded the dragon, diving and dodge rolling away from the beast. He managed to get close enough to grab the Fire half of the twin weapons, the other half lost over the side of the wall. He replaced one of the Kunai in its previous holding spot, and took up the magical blade, still glowing with Flame. In the other hand he held the second Kunai in a style that one would weild a Main Gauche, or some other sort of defensive weapon. He looked back, sweating bullets at the sight that he had only read about.

[9]

Sutiiven swore a countless curses beneath his breath. He would still put up a good fight, but he was now out of options, short of running around in circles and launching cheap shots until he could unleash an ability or something. Even then, he was in big trouble. He used his flaming weapon to bat away falling shards of rock and fire that came off of him from the launch into the air, and awaited his opponents next move.

[10]

Sutiiven's back was to Ryugin's captain and he didn't seem to have much thunder left. Not only that, but he was completely focused on the powerful attack Ryugi Kazamaru was about to unleash on the unfortunate Sutiiven.

The opportunity was just too good to miss.

Quickly, but silently, Silver Moonblade sprang into the offensive. Bracing with his left leg, he would drive a powerful kick to Sutiiven's lower back. Logically, he would probably fall over or buckle into a crouch. Were this the result, Moonblade would follow up by stomping on his back or chest with his right leg; hard. If not, Sutiiven could look forward to a strong right hook to the side of his head.

"Finish this, Ryugi!"

He would then back away quickly; he didn't want to be anywhere near Sutiiven when the attack went off. Hopefully, he would have a few broken ribs or gotten the wind knocked out of him. He would have just used Dragoonair, but at full force it would go right through him. And killing was against the rules of the tournament.

((Oh no, I posted out of turn... I'm correcting this, but I understand if thats a penalty or something... not that it matters too much, I've practically lost...))

((And some Editing due to some discussion with Ryugi.))

Ah, the curse of not paying attention. Fortunately for him, Sutii did not crouch or buckle, but the force of the blow thrust the lad forward. He landed flat on his face, but consecutively pushed off of the ground and up on his feet. He had always been good at falls in training. He was a little dazed, but theoretically still able to block a normal attack. Ryugi, however, was not normal, and he had very little chance of surviving said attack, let alone blocking it. He held the flaming sword up, crossed with the kunai in feeble attempt to block whatever came at him from the dragon, as well as keeping aware of another striker.

When the smoke cleared from the Hyper Nova, a severely charred Sutiiven would be seen getting up off the ground. His firey blade dropped to the ground, alight no longer as its full energy had been spent in attempt to deflect what in essence was a massive fireball. Sutii had pushed all of his energy behind the block, and lo and behold, he stood dazed, somehow still alive from that hit. He grunted, and continued starring down his opponent with fierce, albiet exausted determination. He was not going to stop until every last drop of fight had left him.

"Co...come on... I'm still... here... come an... fig... fight me...!! I may be... only half... but I am still... dragon!!"

He didnt look very majestic though... scarred and burnt, he defiantly faced his opponent. He had been blown clear to the other end of the wall, managing to just slam into a large piece of rock that had landed in his flight path. This wall was not going to be repaired anytime soon.

[11]

"He's got the fighting spirit, I'll give him that."

Silver grinned, speaking to Shuyin. He had been at the brunt of Ryugi's attacks way to many times, so it was nice to see them used on someone else. Though he would admit that he hadn't been in the presence of more than one half dragon at a time, before. They were usually quite rare. Silver could only wonder what their other halves were; he couldn't always tell just by looking at them. He was specialized with pure-bred dragons, not racial hybrids.

"KUUUUUURRRRRRRRRAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!"

The man roared out in a way similar to the draconic yell that Ryugi had done when he had performed the Ascension. He begame engulfed in a silver aura, pulsating from him. He was attempting something he never had tried, and he didn't know how it would turn out, but he couldnt help but try. It was crazy, absolutely suicide. But he obviously didnt care.

Quote: Premature Ascension (?): Sutiiven attempts to unleash his draconic potential in a way similar to Ascension, however, it is much weaker than that of a fully matured Dragon. (Charge: ALL)

With a flash of light, he performed the manuver. What came out of it was nothing special; where a Silver Dragon should have been a deformed half human half dragon stood. He shed a tear, and screamed, pulsing out as much energy as he could from his body, hoping that Ryugi would fly into it and be at least a little bit hurt. When he could output energy no longer, he collapsed, out cold.

[Final Post]

[16] Ryugi's own draconic power collided with Sutii's as he sped forth, the full power of Ryugi's energy being enough to withstand the force from Sutii's lesser energy. However, the sudden burst of energy had stopped Ryugi in his tracks out of sheer caution. One does not charge full speed ahead into a dangerous situation without first checking your options, and Ryugi knew better than to speed into the powerful maul of a creature with draconic blood in its veins, even if it was only half so.

Then, the young man collapsed to the ground, out cold. And Ryugi quickly dispersed his powerful aura, bringing himself back to his regular energy levels. It had been a good fight, and this warrior was extremely well trained, and battle worthy. Ryugi was blessed to have had the opportunity to fight against such a fighter.

You fought well, my opponent. But the battle is over. You've done your team proud...

[Round End - Match Over]

((Good fight Sutii! Thumbs up ))

Shuyin rushed over to the injured Sutiiven, bringing a hand behind his head to ease it to the ground, his other hand hovering over his chest, as he transferred his chakra energy into his body to soothe his wounds. It would weaken him in turn, so he only used enough so Sutiiven would be able to stand on his feet, at least. He would still need some assistance until he could receive proper medical attention.

"Rest now, my friend. You fought well," Shuyin said. He then looked up at Ryugi, smiling and nodding his head. "You both fought excellently. It was an honor fighting against you all in the first round, even if we lost."

Sutii blinked as he was healed. He stood up, but had to catch himself as he nearly fell from the overdosage of Healing from both Shuyin and Ryugi. Slightly dizzy, he grinned weakly and rested against a wall.

"Thank you both... it was a hell of an experience, even though Team Dragonforce is out of the running." He glanced down at the fire half of his twin weapons. It was fried, covered with black char and smoked lightly. "It looks like I'm gonna have to fix these two up - the other one wouldnt have landed lightly after that toss over the edge..." he muttered, not really paying attention to himself.

It was over, and he was still just a nobody. A nobody that had just attempted to transform into a dragon premature, but still a nobody. It was back to training for him. He sighed, told himself to snap out of it, and so he began the process of moving on.

Sutii glanced up at the others, and smiled a bit. He glanced around at the devistation of the wall.

"Damn... someone is not gonna like cleaning up after this mess..."

His smile then turned into a grin, and then a hearty laugh. He took him and his newly changed mood over to the group. There were stories to tell and experiences to share about the fights that had occured, not to mention he had another sword to find and 30 Kunai laying around to pick up. He sheathed his blade, and walked happily over to his new friends.

It may have been the end of Heaven or Hell for Sutiiven Takahashi, but it was the beginning of so much more.

Thoughts of what lie ahead permeated Ryugi's thoughts, but whatever team they were matched against next, whatever course lay in wait for them next, no matter what came their way, Ryugi knew that each member of his team would perform to their best, and give it their all. It was all they COULD do, and if they didn't win the next round, they would have still fought a mighty battle.

Ryugi contemplated the possibilities as he listened to the calming flute melody played by Shuyin.

Reinhart knew his teammates quite well and the battlecries from Ryugi were definitely no surprise, good reminder of last year if anything. Throughout most of the match he had stood with his arms folded watching both Sutti and Ryugi only taking the time to respond to Shuyin or Stacc. Seemed the round was over and everyone had a bit of time to relax while they waited for the official ruling of the judge.

Still he stood unmoved only taking the time to give Ryugi and Sutti a nod as if saying "Good fight." after he would just enjoy Shuyin's melody relaxing a bit.

"You know..."

Nayko would find Reinhart standing right next to him suddenly in the same manner he stood before, arms folded. The goblet Nayko had made was gone but the refreshing feel of it's contents were satifying if anything. It wasn't like Reinhart was trying to scare Nayko be suddenly appearing at his side, it was just what he did.

"...no need to shrink under the display of your teammates nor should you feel the need to."

Turning his head slightly the wind pressed his face knocking his hair away from it revealing both his eyes. A beautiful ice blue left eye and a contradictory blood red right eye.

"We're all part of this team, win or lose, there's no need to regret your actions or feel the weight of failure. You did good."

His voice was stern and very leveled as if putting emphasis to his words.

Reinhart listened and watched Nayko even as he lifted the rose to the light then let it drop to the ground below shattering like delicate things tend to do. The simple gesture reminded Reinhart of many things, of how hopes and dreams can be shattered as easily, rising to the top and hitting rock bottom, sorts of things he usually didn't think of. As Nayko continued his eye were met by Reinhart, his look was that of steel yet piercing like the strongest spear or sword.

Watching Nayko take the rosary and offer it to him his arms unfolded as he took a step closer to his Angelic teammate. Taking the rosary from him he look it over holding it in his palm for a moment. He'd smile, he wasn't used to this kind of treatment and didn't really know how to react to it so he did as what only Reinhart would do.

"Thank you. I'm so emberassed, I didn't even get you anything."

Then he'd laugh lightyl looking to Nayko as he put the Rosary over his wrist taking a moment to exmanie the way it looked on him.

Reinhart put his hand on Nayko's shoulder, the rosary hanging loose from his wrist as he smiled to his teammate.

"Let's hope the rosary brings me good fortune as it did you Nayko."

Turning to face evryone else they only needed to wait for the judge to make the official ruling. From the looks of it his team was in favor and they'd move on to round two. Who their opponents would be was still a mistery but wit his team's will there was hope they'd make it far again this year.

"Hope you're ready for round two."

He said still looking forward folding his arms once more.

"Dear Ryugi, why would we be speaking your name? You ask as if you've just won some immense victory." Nayko twisted his sarcasm to tease the daydreaming dragon boy. He nodded to Reinhart, and gestured to the Captain. Silver, there leader couldn't be without comment. Nayko brimmed with curiousity as to what the Captain thought of their first round. Stepping in front of his two teammates, Nayko bowed to his Higher and spoke in an exaggerated voice, "Captain of Team Ryugin, Silver Moonblade, I solemnly bestow to you the graces of your magnifiscent team. We, your proud and honorable soldiers wish to offer both blade and bone in the contest of strength and passion. Take head in choosing our gift, for it comes with a price most extreme." With a broad smile, Nayko turned to face Ryugi and Reinhart and extended his hands. "We expect a meal fit for king's of men, and the finest of wine bled from the berries of victorious glory. Bestow to us a grand life, and we'll bestow the sweetest of victories unto you."

Nayko chuckled at his own speech, but then felt a small twinge of guilt. "Blessed are those who speak in eloquence and sacred demeanor. Bless me, for I dare not choose the path of a martyr, nor do I pray for the coming of egoistic suicide at the sound of my own word." His body quivered with the relaxation of his nerves, and he adorned the broad grin once more.

With his eyebrow cocked Reinhart stood there listening to Nayko and coudln't find the words to reply. The Angel didn't cease to amaze him in his devotion to the Higher or whatever it was he served.

"Don't know about the rest of what you said but I'll take the feast and wine."

Laughing lightly he winked at Nayko to show it was only a joke and that he understood what he said. He was just being Reinhart, no need for grand speeches and all that shi.....jazz. Not fromhim at least, Nayko did a better job.

That sounds like a winning idea to me!

Ryugi smiled and turned to Shuyin who spoke up. Ryugi was hungry after that battle, and could really use a nice big meal.

Sutii had been quiet during this time, but couldnt resist perking up at the sound of a post first round party or something of the sort.

"Sounds good to me."

He got up off the ground and stretched idly.