Aidan Lowell
Griffon Knight
Symbol of Rebellion
Ten years is far too long to be a stranger in your own home.
Posts: 265
Bern Fame: 4
Illia Fame: -4
Profession: High Consul in the Bernese Senate
Affiliation: Bern
Affinity: Thunder
OoC Alias: Elias
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Post by Aidan Lowell on May 2, 2010 21:38:31 GMT -6
The Lady's Smile? Not the place I would of picked, but ok. "I'll meet you both there later then." He said with a nod and decided to hit the smithy first. He walked away from the group, looking at the building marked by a giant hammer on the sign. It would take a while for the metalwork on his armor to be done, so it'd be best to get it out of the way first and pick it up at the end of the day... Though he might have to pay a bit of extra gold to make sure it got done today, he couldn't waste his time idling around Lacuna, he had somewhere he needed to be.
But first... he needed to get out of it. Not something he looked forward, it was hard getting a full set of platemail on and off, so he usually just left it on. You get used to the uncomfortableness after a while, he even slept in full armor most of the time, just because he disliked taking it off so much... It probably reeked by now...
"Sir Lowell! Do you need some help?"
"U-um, no. I'm fi- Argh! Dammit that hurt!" UARGH! Why does armor have to be so heavy!? He was in the smithy, nursing a bruised, and quite nasty looking, foot. Next to him was a bag with some clothing in it, he was in a private room removing his armor so the armorer could take a look at it. Still, he almost smashed his foot into microscopic bits when he dropped the chest plate on his unarmored toes. "I'm fine. Tell your father I have the armor ready for him to see..." His voice was a small grumble, like a little kid who just got beat by his older brother in a race.
"Oh, ok Sir Lowell." He couldn't see her, but somehow he knew she just bowed anyway. "Father? Father..." Her voice got further away as he looked down at his unarmored body. Ugh, I got a lot of nasty bruises... I don't even know where some of these came from. He had a small look on his face as he stared down at the clothes he was going to put on in place of the quiet disgusting ones he usually had on under his armor (it would be idiotic to go commando under all that armor, just think of the chafing.) It was obviously the kind of outfit his sister would pick out for him, mostly because it was. She had it sent here because she knew he'd pass through Lacuna, but that didn't surprise him one bit. She always thought ahead, a skill he could never quite match despite his best attempts to.
After tugging on his scarf, to make sure it was on right (he never did like these things) he left to go speak to the blacksmith. That smith being an old friend of his fathers, apparently he used to spend a lot of time in Lacuna before becoming a noble. After fighting in the arena, you probably needed some repairs, so it made sense. "Ah, Sir Lowell!" He said with a great big smile, one that almost made Aidan feel dirty. "You're the spitting image of your father in his youth! I could hardly tell with all that armor on, but it's unmistakable now!"
"Please sir Theodore, I am simply Aidan. The Lowell house is no more." He tried to correct him.
"I don't listen to that Ilian hogwash for a moment. In this shop, the Lowell house will always live on." The man was so... ecstatic, it was almost sad to see him act this way. "Anyways, about this armor..." He motioned to the pile of green and gold metal he had before him. "What have you been getting in to? It's absolutely trashed! You're lucky you came and saw me, this would of fallen of your body in pieces if you let it sit another day!" He scolded Aidan, but he could hear the happiness in his voice still. "A shame too, such workmanship. It's from Koroda, right?" Aidan nodded, it was a gift before he left home five years ago. The man touched the cold steel with long, weathered finger with an unreadable look on his face. "Hrm... it might take a bit of work but... I should have it brand new by tonight if I focus on it."
He was relieved to hear that, he was worried he might of had to stay in town an extra day or so and be forced to leave his companions. "That's wonderful, allow me to pay you extra..."
"Nope. I won't have it." The man instantly spat out. "You're not giving me a single coin, in fact, if you do I will deliberately work slower on it."
"But-" Aidan tried to object.
"It would be an honor to work on Alexander Lowell's son's armor. Besides I owe a favor to your sister, this is the least I could do." Ah, so his sister pops up yet again.
Aidan allowed his self to smile, not quite so worried about staying stoic with this relative stranger. "Thank you Sir Theodore, I'll be back for it later." He nodded with his eyes closed and walked out of the store.
"Please! Call me Theo!" Is what all he heard as he walked away.
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Aevian
The "Before" years
[M:30]
Posts: 114
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Post by Aevian on May 5, 2010 20:35:50 GMT -6
Aevian waved to Aidan as he left, and then turned to grin at Lyar, as she left him to do his business. She herself, moved with no degree of rush, checking herself into her own room, but that was momentary. She had to go do some work on securing the goods that would be needed for traveling. Wandering down the wide street, she stumbled into the market district, noticing some Sacaen vendors, selling cloth set into the style of their people. it was odd, seeing the nomads here in a walled city...their reception probably wasn't as...welcomed...as others were.
Still muling around, hands in her pockets, Aevian browsed through several stores, flashing coin to get attention from the vendors. A small withered man lifted his head from the wooden counter infront of his make-shift shop. He sold flint. After some meager discussion and bartering, Aevian worked out a somewhat fair price for his materials, and placed the flint stones into her satchel.
Afterwards, she moved off, buying up the rest of her materials, food, a map of the area, not that she needed one of course, and a new blanket to rest on. The other one smelt of mold, and just wouldn't do any longer, not for her atleast, not when there was still coin in her pocket. Bern wasn't that far away, so she didn't need to really work on protecting her flow of coin.
When she was finished, with a bag over each shoulder and one on her back, she moved back to the inn, and into her room, where she would drop off her luggage into the corner, and seat herself on the one chair that stood in the room, taking a load off her feet.
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Aidan Lowell
Griffon Knight
Symbol of Rebellion
Ten years is far too long to be a stranger in your own home.
Posts: 265
Bern Fame: 4
Illia Fame: -4
Profession: High Consul in the Bernese Senate
Affiliation: Bern
Affinity: Thunder
OoC Alias: Elias
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Post by Aidan Lowell on May 5, 2010 21:49:47 GMT -6
"Thank you mam, have a nice day." The soldier bowed his head to the woman at the counter, feeling a bit more content with his self then he had for a long time. It might of been Theo's actions, or it might be from the peace after the battle, but the point was that he felt more calm then he has for a while. He also felt rediculously light, but that's no surprise with him finally being free from the portable prison of steel he carried everywhere.
In his arm Aidan held a bag full of supplies. Mostly dried meats and fruits, food that can last a long time. It was mostly his days in the military talking, but he had grown used to the rough rations and felt quite out of place when it came to eating more lavish foods. Something quick, preferably not requiring cooking, his tastes had gotten weird over the years... The fact he could turn a sandwhich into poison also had something to do with it.
He kept his spear with him, earning some odd looks, mostly out of habit. He didn't want to be unprepared, no matter how unlikely it was to be attacked. People seemed to be a bit more understanding then he first thought they would though. Most likely because of a few things, like being so close to an arena and the tensions in the country making everyone scramble for self defense. The guards were pretty heavily outfitted though, so you'd need to be an idiot, or idiotically strong to start trouble in this city.
"Sir, over here!" A skeevy looking man beckoned. He was well dressed, but in that way that made you feel unnerved. Like he was about to sell you something busted, making it sound incredible instead. He was leaning on the side of a building, and didn't appear to be a merchant, then again merchants can hide goods in... unexpected places. "You look like a gentleman of refinement." Refinement? This man needed to barter for a better pair of eyes if he actually thought that... Against his better judgment, Aidan walked up to him though.
"Yes, yes, perfect." The man smiled widely, making Aidan wince for some odd reason. He had a single golden tooth he couldn't take his eye off of. He looked up and down Aidan, sizing him up. "Yes... you definately are."
"I'm leaving." He was creepy, and Aidan didn't want anything to do with him. His voice stayed even as ever, but he didn't want to stay any longer then he needed to.
"Ah, but Aidan Lowell, I have something I know you want to know."
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Aidan Lowell
Griffon Knight
Symbol of Rebellion
Ten years is far too long to be a stranger in your own home.
Posts: 265
Bern Fame: 4
Illia Fame: -4
Profession: High Consul in the Bernese Senate
Affiliation: Bern
Affinity: Thunder
OoC Alias: Elias
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Post by Aidan Lowell on May 7, 2010 22:52:41 GMT -6
"How..."
"Simple really. You're dressed like I was told you'd be, you act like I was told you would, and that look on your face just spells it out." The man grinned dirtily, only missing the bugs crawling in his teeth to truly be disgusting. Aidan has met a few people like this, most of them thieves, but none of them looking, or knowing about him in particular. So this was particularly interesting, and extraordinarily disturbing, and he had little choice but to sit around and listen to the man. "You're exactly like I was told you were, though you were supposed to be here a week ago. Running late, are we?" He snickered to his self.
"Tell me what you know, quickly." He stated sternly, harshly really. Like he was about to pound the guys face with his words alone. Instead of a swift reply, which any sane man with eyes would give the stern man, all Aidan caught was another glimpse of the bugs in his smile.
"Say what you want big guy, but now I definitely know it's you. And I know you would never do anything to hurt me, you're a big wuss under all those muscles, right?" The man leaned back on the wall of a store, feeling proud of his self. All Aidan wanted to do was punch him in the face to prove him wrong, but in fact he was quite right. The knight didn't enjoy undue violence, as contradictory as it sounded. She he dropped his offensive posture, almost in defeat, and decided that it probably wouldn't help to try and intimidate him further.
"Ok, I'll bite. What is it?"
"Yess..." That gritty smile again, Aidan will never be able to get over it. "I dare say you get used to me, since you're going be seeing me... a lot. I'm Mr. X. But you can call me Sir X, I also accept Lord X or King X if you're feeling dramatic. I am a... friend of your sisters. She told me to come out here and greet you, but you were taking so long I almost split." The man laughed, and Aidan felt irritated. So that's why she sent the clothes, so she'd make sure this....guy would be able to recognize me. Could she have picked a more disturbing man?
"So what did you want to tell me." Aidan crossed his arms and raised a single eyebrow at him.
"Come with me, I'll tell you on the way. Oh and don't argue, you don't have a choice. If you don't come, you'll never know, and I know how that would eat you alive." Urgh... I can't stand people like him. The worst part, it was absolutely true. The so called Mr. X rised from his spot from the wall, stuffed his hands in the pocket of his longcoat and began to walk away, making no signs to see if Aidan was following... He was.
"How do you know my sister?" He asked, but the man didn't answer. It didn't surprise him he knew his sister, she kept a lot of things secret, quite well too. Lying was a skill that she not only learned, but mastered... though it's been five years since he last saw her so that wasn't really the point here. The man weaved in and out of crowds, walking at a quick pace. If Aidan had been in full armor, he might of had trouble, but without that prison of steel following him around, he found himself much lighter on his feet.
"You're lucky you got here when you did. If you were too late, everything would of went to crap." The comment was quite offhand, and he didn't even know what it was supposed to mean. He knew if he asked, he'd get absolutely nothing out of it, so he didn't even bother. Why did he bother with any of this? He could just walk away right now and... Urgh, it was just so irritating. All of it. Where was X taking him? It was hard to tell, the town was so crowded with merchants everywhere it was almost impossible to tell which one in particular he was headed to. "We're almost there. I assume you've been keeping up on your physical training."
"Almost there? But-"
"Answer the question." His interrupt was swift, Aidan couldn't even sputter out the end of his thought.
"Yes, but-"
"Perfect. You'll be entering here then." The arena. Just what did this man, and by extension his sister, have in mind?
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Aidan Lowell
Griffon Knight
Symbol of Rebellion
Ten years is far too long to be a stranger in your own home.
Posts: 265
Bern Fame: 4
Illia Fame: -4
Profession: High Consul in the Bernese Senate
Affiliation: Bern
Affinity: Thunder
OoC Alias: Elias
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Post by Aidan Lowell on May 10, 2010 10:49:50 GMT -6
The arena? Isn't this where Lyar was headed? Why here of all places? I don't know what's going on... I don't like that. I think I should just leave. What ever he had to tell me can't be important anyways, Iris can just tell me herself when I get there, and I won't be forced into the arena that way. Aidan looked up at the tall walls of the imposing arena, towering over many of the nearby homes. It was quite... impressive. People where funneling in for some thing that escaped his attention, he was too focused on the man dictating him around. Despite his thoughts to ditch the man, he stuck around. That's all they were after all, just thoughts. "The Arena? I don't even have my armor. I left it in the shop back there."
"Oh, I know. You left it with Theodore, and he did it for free because you're a Lowell." He looked over his shoulder to look at the armorless knight. "Oh don't give that face. Don't underestimate me, I know quite a bit more then you think I do. His toothy grin with a glint of gold, Aidan couldn't help but be distracted by it. "Information's my trade. Your sister knows that, and that's why we're friends. She gives me gold to keep my mouth shut for anyone but her, the best kind of friend." If you know so much, then how come you needed to make sure I was me. Aidan groaned, knowing that if he even asked, it would be answered in a way that makes him look like the fool here.
"That doesn't-"
"Don't interrupt people, it's rude. Anyways, I already have a new suit of armor I want you to wear in the arena. Full plate-mail and a helmet, I already have a match set up for you." He started to walk again, and Aidan had no choice but to follow. It was a bit odd, this X man was atleast a head shorter then Aidan, and much more scrawny, yet he was pushing him around like a cat with a rat. They drew closer to the stone giant of a building, and sure enough it was basically packed. It looked like some sort of tournament type thing was going on for the last few days, ending today.
"A little late to join the fun." Aidan smirked, X's plan probably called for him arriving much sooner. "I guess no arena for-"
"Oh please." He barked with laughter. "You give me far too little credit. I wouldn't let your failures mess me up. I planned ahead for this kind of thing." That would be a perfect place to notice a mischievous gleam in his eye... but there was no such thing... which somehow made him even more terrifying. "I said I had a match set up, and I meant it. And it's a doozy. You're up against... well you'll see." That smile got more disturbing each time he saw it. "But, for now, you need to go change." He waved at some stranger, a teenager, beckoning him closer.
"I like cats." The guy said... quite randomly actually.
"Only if they have claws." Mr. X replied and the young man nodded, walking off. "We're following him, come on." Aidan refrained from commenting. Absolutely sure he'd only get three words out before being interrupted. Rude indeed.
The unnamed kid weaved in and out of the crowd and through rooms. There were men and women getting outfitted, probably for battle, and many more being bandaged up, bleeding everywhere. Each room had less and less people in it, the further they got from the main room. Eventually they came across a completely abandoned room, mostly featureless really. The kid came to a wall and knocked on it three times. The wall slid out, showing a hidden room behind it. "Here. I stashed it in my secret spot like you told me to. Now where's my gold?" The boy said, hand outstretched.
"Ah, of course young master. Here, 200 gold." From his satchel, X retrieved a sizable pile of gold coins. "And here, and extra 50 gold. Bonus of good faith, I trust no one is to know, right?" The boy nodded. "Good then, now go and watch the tournament. Something fun's going to happen real soon." The rushed off, looking pleased with his self. 250 gold for sharing a hidey hole? Pretty nice. "Little brat." He scoffed. "Still, I had to bribe him not to tip his father, the arenamaster, off. Luckily teenagers are stupid, so it wasn't hard. Most people would of tried to blackmail me to get more money. Atleast that's what I would have done." Inside the room was an armorstand, with a suit of green and silver armor on it, complete with a helmet. To Aidan it looked... oddly nostalgic. Like he's seen it somewhere before. "Now suit up."
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Aidan Lowell
Griffon Knight
Symbol of Rebellion
Ten years is far too long to be a stranger in your own home.
Posts: 265
Bern Fame: 4
Illia Fame: -4
Profession: High Consul in the Bernese Senate
Affiliation: Bern
Affinity: Thunder
OoC Alias: Elias
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Post by Aidan Lowell on May 10, 2010 11:51:36 GMT -6
It felt... odd. It was nothing like his old armor, it was heavily plated in placed he was used to be exposed and didn't have enough covering places he usually had fortified. He picked the shield off the ground, and slid on the helmet. It was... like wearing some other man's skin. Wait that was really creepy sounding. Still that's all he could think, his armor was completely natural to him. He thought he looked naked without it, and wearing this foreign steel made him feel even more out of place. Still, it fit surprisingly well, and was a good deal lighter then his usual steel shell. It took him a moment to adjust to the new weight, and with a few practice lunges of the lance, he felt comfortable enough to leave. He might not be fighting as good as he usually would, but he should be almost at the top of his game.
Still... His mind wandered as he was double checking all the joints and making sure everything was shackled properly. Why am I doing this? I should be out getting supplies, that's what I said I'd do... Will I meet Lyar here? Will... Will I fight him? I've seem him fight, a real berserker. This armor would prove little use against that... What happened to my meat and fruit? I think I left it back where I was talking to X for the first time. Dang, that's 100 gold wasted... Maybe I should just go... Who am I kidding. I'm going to do this, because I am told to. I may not act like it, I may run from it, but I can't stop being a soldier. I do what I'm told... even if I don't like it.
He exited the secret room, feeling silly in the armor. The front of his helmet shaded his eyes, he hadn't worn a helmet in atleast two years. It came to him naturally though, like everything about this. He was a very well trained fighter, even if he rebelled against it. "Ah, it's a perfect match." Aidan would of given a confused look, but his face was obscured.
"What do you-"
"Don't put your nose where it doesn't belong, it's a good way to lose it." X snapped his fingers when he talked. Sure enough it shut Aidan up. "Your match is up soon, you're Wyrmheart." Wait that's- "Yes, that's the same name your father used in his tournament days. However, these days it's a bit cliche. Still, that only works for us." Somehow, even Aidan's thoughts got interrupted. Still, it wasn't just a coincidence, the nostalgia finally made sense. The armor was just like the kind his father used to wear. Albeit it a bit thicker for being for a knight, rather then the wyvernrider Alexander used to be. He wasn't sure what X's plan was, but whatever it was it planned for him to get in the fray.
"So, who am I fighting?" Aidan asked along the walk back to the lobby, noticing more then a few people turning to look at him. A gasp her, a strange... squealing noise there.
"Shadowstep." His commander grinned like a devil. "A swordsmaster, absolute fan favorite, and one of the best fighters in the entire arena. Possibly the best. Regardless, he is by far the most popular. And that is what is truly import. He is currently set to be in the final match of the tourney today."
"Then how am I supposed to be fighting him?" As they go through to more crowded more people turned to look, a few people talked amongst themselves and pointed at him. The fighters nodded their head, acknowledging him, the arena goers acting excited just seeing him. It was... really odd. He felt so visible it was disturbing, despite being a noble he wasn't really used to being seen like this. He practiced to look intimidating to avoid this, and Iris was the head of the Lowell house, not him, right? "He's in the tournament, and I'm not."
"Of course you are, don't be silly. You're the other finalist." That was said in a very matter-of-fact way, like Aidan was a fool for not knowing this naturally. It didn't make sense, he hadn't been here so how was he in the tournament? Is this what X meant by saying if he'd been any later the plan would of been messed up? In which case, it definitely a good thing he got here when he did. He was about 9 days behind schedule, this tournament's been going on for at least 4. Something came from abandoning Rayl after all... even if it was a horrible thing to do.
"How?"
"Nose, lose, shut up." Four words, and Aidan clammed up. He wouldn't get anything out of this man anways.
"Wyrmheart!" He heard someone shout, but he ignored it. "Wyrmheart!" It came again and he saw a little kid running up to him. It took him a moment to connect the fact that, oh, he was Wyrmheart. Not someone else. "Mr. Wyrmheart!" The kid was basically hopping up and down, barely reach Aidan's waist in height. So Aidan knelled to one knee in his heavy armor to get to closer to the kid's level. He held up a piece of parchment and a quill with ink at the end. "Can I have your autograph!?"
Aidan felt odd, embarrassed, and probably red in the face. "Oh... um... sure." He took the writing object, and thought for a minute about how you're supposed to write Wyrmheart. He wasn't really a writey person, he knew how but had little experience in actually doing. "So... uh... what's your name?"
"Xavier!" The boy looked so happy, it actually made Aidan feel good, as opposed to everything else that happened that day. So he wrote on the parchment 'To Xavier from Wyrmheart' He handed it back to the boy and he did a weird little dance of joy only a little kid could do, and Aidan couldn't help but grin.
Even Mr. X had a genuine smile on his face. One that did not reek of hidden intentions, or creepy dirtiness. A real, almost kind one. "Well then Wyrmheart, your public awaits."
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Aidan Lowell
Griffon Knight
Symbol of Rebellion
Ten years is far too long to be a stranger in your own home.
Posts: 265
Bern Fame: 4
Illia Fame: -4
Profession: High Consul in the Bernese Senate
Affiliation: Bern
Affinity: Thunder
OoC Alias: Elias
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Post by Aidan Lowell on May 10, 2010 19:43:53 GMT -6
There were more whispers, more nods, and even a few more people coming up to him. X told him to stay quiet, for some reason. He was allowed to nod, to shake hands, but not talk. They headed to the arena master and the man smirked. X gave Aidan a strange look before he turned to the man at the counter, one that just screamed to stay quiet. Aidan wasn't planning on talking anyways, he preferred that, but still he was curious as to why he was so insistent. "Ah, Damian. Good to see you again." He said with outstretched hands, as if he was going to give the bald and muscular man a hug, he dropped them back to his sides before smiling at the man. It was a very convincing smile, but also very fake.
"Artix, it's good to see you again friend!" His laugh was deep, baritone. "And you as well Wyrmheart. Ready for the big fight?" He smirked in Aidan's direction, like he already knew him. Aidan said nothing, like he was instructed. "Always the quiet one, eh? And here I heard you finally cracked and starting talking to kids. One was hopping around earlier saying that Wyrmheart talked to him. You better do good out there, I know you're the long shot but I bet a lot on you pal. Can't help but root for the underdog, y'know." The man talked with such a calm look on his face. It was... odd. It was like when you meet an old friend, and they remember everything about you, but you can barely scrape up their name.
"You're going to have to let me in on that bet Ian." X laughed. "You know what I'm here for Arty, me and Wyrmheart are ready whenever Shadowstep is.
"Good, since he's been ready for a while now. Boy can't wait for anything, he's looking forward to fighting you kid." He smirked in Aidan's direction, and the knight nodded at him, mouth tightly sealed. "The crowd's getting restless, I'll announce final call and let the patrons find their seats. The battle will start shortly, go to the blue gate."
"Perfect, thanks Ian. Time to get ready for the biggest match of the season!" He sounded enthusiastic, but if it was real or not Aidan couldn't tell. Either he's that good at mimicking emotions or... this actually excites him. After a short walk, and some skillful crowd evasion, they reached a room reserved for fighters. The people seemed to be hurrying inside the arena as they walked by, as if they could tell the battle will start soon with Wyrmheart here. The pair enter the room, seeing weapons lining the walls and spare armor laying around for some under equipped fighters to stock up.
"Can you explain what's happening now?" Aidan finally asked, sure no one was around to hear him anyways.
"No. Your opponent is a swordsmaster, the perfect match up for a heavy armor spear fighter like you. Still, he is more then good enough to not let that bother him. I hope your up to snuff, or I'm going to need a new subject." Subject? What did he consider Aidan? A toy? A tool? And why? "Though I wouldn't worry too much. I'm sure you'll make it. I wouldn't have entered you if I was unsure." He smirked as he turned his back on the knight, examining a spear on the wall. He touches the tip and scoffs. "They actually expect people to use trash like this?"
Aidan stared at the ground, the helmet on his head shadowing his eyes. What was he signing his self up for? "And if I lose?"
"You die." His response was so short, so curt that Aidan was a bit shocked. He never turned from the spear he was eying. "If not by him..." He lifted a knife off of the wall and turned to him, a cruel unforgiving look in his beady eyes. "Then by me. I'll make this clear with you right now... I don't accept failure."
The crowd from outside the door roared violently. "That will be your cue." His eyes thinned to snakelike slits, a sadistic look painted his face. "Good luck."
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Aidan Lowell
Griffon Knight
Symbol of Rebellion
Ten years is far too long to be a stranger in your own home.
Posts: 265
Bern Fame: 4
Illia Fame: -4
Profession: High Consul in the Bernese Senate
Affiliation: Bern
Affinity: Thunder
OoC Alias: Elias
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Post by Aidan Lowell on May 14, 2010 12:51:11 GMT -6
There was a hard lump in his throat, one that he couldn't simply swallow. It wasn't the fear of the fighting, no he was perfectly fine with that.... it was a fear of the people. There were hundreds.... maybe thousands of people in the arena who will be watching his fight. He felt petrified, and X was no help. He left right after he made his oh so subtle threat. The crowd outside was going wild, and that really didn't help.
While Aidan paced the room in indecision, an uncomfortable feeling in the pit of his stomach, he noticed a man staring at him. He was standing near a giant gate, and was wearing what looked like the uniform of this place. He assumed it was the uniform anyway, he's seen it atleast a hundred times. So he stopped in his tracks to look at the man, putting his arms behind his back.
"Wyrmheart, it's time to get out there." His smile was so carefree, the knight was almost jealous. "Put on a good show for every one, it wouldn't be fun to watch if you got killed before it even starts. And good luck, you'll need it." Oh gee, I wonder who he thinks will win?
Aidan simply nodded, the man unable to see his very annoyed expression. The large doorlike gate in the room had opened, and lead out to a large empty area, the battle arena. The crowd was screaming restlessly, unable to wait another minute for this showdown of showdowns. Two fan favorites, Wrymheart and Shadowstep are finally going against each other. This was something some people were looking forward too as soon as the tournament started, while others had to see the two in battle first to get totally psyched for it.
He stood at his end and looked up to the crowd. It was... positively packed with people. He felt grateful for that helmet obscuring his face, otherwise everyone would see who he actually was. And he didn't want that, he would never want anything like that. Still, that wasn't the only thing that caught his attention. On the other side of the arena there was a man standing there, tall and slender. Long purple hair, and the garb of Sacaen warrior. In his hand was a long, silver sword that caught to sunlight ever so lightly and looked like it glowed white. All Aidan had was his simple slim spear, this battle wasn't off to a good start.
Slowly the wild cheers began to die down as the arena master stood from a balcony above the fight. He held a single up, waiting before it was quiet to speak. "Ladies and Gentlemen!" His already deep and forceful voice was now booming. Even those on the far side of the arena should be able to hear. "We have come to the Final Match of the Lacuna Grand Tourney!" The was a slight rush of cheering, but it died quickly as the arenamaster held a hand up again. "We have seen many men fight, many battles waged, but now only two men remain!" The crowd cheered again. "And now, it comes down to those two to give us the fight of their lives!" It grew even louder. "These men, unrivaled in skill and strength! We shall see these two titans fight!" It was barely possible to hear him over the roar of the crowd.
He held a hand up again, and the crowd's roar slowly died. "Over here we have one man!" He thrusted his arm in the swordsman's direction. The crowd was just raring to go wild again. "A swordsman from Sacae who shows no sympathy for his enemies, a man who holds the record for the Arena's fastest battle! He butchers his competition and stands unopposed as one of the most terrifying men to ever grace this arena! The swift swordsman, Shadowstep!" The crowd was in a frenzy now, throwing items into the arena before the fighting even began. It seems the five days of wait had really built up the crowd's hopes as the final brawl. They were so loud it would be foolish to even try to silence them now.
So the Arenamaster waited a few moments for the crowd to die down on it's own, unable to suppress a grin on his face. "That not all we have. Over here we have an enigma of a man. A man who arrives from no where with not a word, but plows his way through the arena like it's butter! No one knows a thing about him, and we love it!" The crowd cheered wildly again, making Aidan almost paralyze with embarrassment. "He's a knight who reminds us all the legendary Wyrmheart! Perhaps it's his second coming? The silent knight, Wyrmheart!" The crowd went wild again, though not quite as much as it did for Shadowstep. He was so grateful for the helmet on his head. Still he couldn't help but feel weird, he was stealing the reputation of some other man.
As the arenamaster spoke to the crowd, and the people went wild, X found his spot in the crowd. Near the edge, he leaned on the railing and stared down onto the battlefield. Standing next to him was a man, largely built and with a black goatee. "So... that's Aidan?" He asked, his voice grainy and nasally as opposed to Aidan's deep and rough voice.
"Yes." He simply replied.
"Huh, looks like a real wuss. He's not even reveling in the fame." He smirked as he looked down to the stadium.
"He's not like you. He puts on a tough facade, but he's a really big wimp underneath it. Still... his nature and name makes him the perfect pawn." The man spoke with that gritty smile he loved to wear so often. The crowd went wild behind him for some reason, he didn't know or care why. "Still, he'll have to grow out of that soon."
"That's the man I was pretending to be? Sounds more like an insult to me. I hope you're serious about our deal." The man was serious, leaning on the railing and looking out to the arena like Mr. X.
"Of course. I always keep my favors. You should know that. You're free, Elrick Harden is no more. And once we reclaim Bern we promise to not hunt you down. Be happy, you just escaped with murder. Don't be an idiot now." A smirk laid on his face. "The gold's in the waiting place. And remember, a word of this and going back to jail will be the least of your problems."
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Aidan Lowell
Griffon Knight
Symbol of Rebellion
Ten years is far too long to be a stranger in your own home.
Posts: 265
Bern Fame: 4
Illia Fame: -4
Profession: High Consul in the Bernese Senate
Affiliation: Bern
Affinity: Thunder
OoC Alias: Elias
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Post by Aidan Lowell on May 19, 2010 19:33:37 GMT -6
"The biggest battle you have ever seen! The Lacuna Grand Tourney's final match begins...." The tension in the arena was building and building, ever single man woman and child hanging on to the man's every word. They waited, anticipated, and desired for that final word. That one syllable that would kick this whole thing off. A wicked smile crawled across his face, taking an almost sadistic pleasure in leaving the crowd hanging. "Now!"
Almost the second the man finished that single syllable, Aidan found himself already at the disadvantage. Shadowstep leaving that spot before the Knight could even register the match had begun, and now he was barreling towards Wyrmheart, the threatening silver blade shining in his hand. The blade came down like a bolt of lightning, and it was all Aidan could muster to bring up his shield before the blow decked him right on the head.
The swordsman was shoved away with a forceful push from the Knight, quickly he brought up his lance to strike, but the man did a swift backflip in response, landing on his feet and his balance regain. He moved at incredible speeds, a blade coming from the left and the Knight could do nothing about it, he was still reeling from missing his first strike. Metal gave way to the swordmanship, and a very noticeable gash now decorated his suit of steel.
Already? Aidan groaned as he couldn't help but stagger after the direct blow. His armor saved him, but it also condemned him, sure there would be a nasty bruise there the next time he took it off. The crowd gasped in astonishment, a very noticeable section cheering loudly. Wyrmheart was the underdog, the long shot, everyone knew that Shadowstep would win in the end, like he always did. Well everyone was sure but one man. A man that wore a dirty smile as he saw Aidan get wailed on. "Again!" Shadowstep called, rushing forward again.
He watched the man's movements, his trained eyes working a bit better now that he'd gotten used to it. When was the last time he had a brawl like this? Years, easily. Perhaps this man will be the one to help buff the rust off of the tired soldier? Hopefully, he would die otherwise. The man moved swiftly, fluidly, resembling a river as he held his blade while his body blew by. This time Aidan had been able to block with his shield, the force of the blow still traveling through his arm.
Shadowstep didn't let up, he rose his blade to strike again and again against the shield, each blow causing Aidan to back up ever so slightly. His attacks leaving grooves of his sword cut into the cheap steel, revealing the gray under the green. He would come back and attack from a different angle now and then, to keep Wyrmheart on his toes. It was all he could do is swing the hefty shield to protect his body. The knight was being backed into a corner, and there was nothing he could do about it.
"Shadow Step Shadow Step!" The crowd chanted as their favorite warrior looked to be winning this battle with no effort.
"Looks like you just spent a crapload of money, eh? Hah, serves ya right." The criminal laughed.
"Stop talking and just watch. I don't like people interrupting my fights." X said simply, never looking away from the battlefield, a smirk permanently placed on his face.
Come on... come on... Aidan felt each attack, each one more frantic the the last. His shield was weakening after each attack, he could feel it... it wouldn't last much longer. Its steel was no match for the silver blade. Come on....
Shadowstep lifted the blade high above his head, ready to unleash the final blow. This battle was far shorter then any match should be. The silver gleamed in the muted sunlight as it came crashing down.
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Aidan Lowell
Griffon Knight
Symbol of Rebellion
Ten years is far too long to be a stranger in your own home.
Posts: 265
Bern Fame: 4
Illia Fame: -4
Profession: High Consul in the Bernese Senate
Affiliation: Bern
Affinity: Thunder
OoC Alias: Elias
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Post by Aidan Lowell on May 20, 2010 19:13:15 GMT -6
Now! The heavy blow unleashed wrath from above, smashing the unsuspecting ground as the target was already gone. It took a few blows, and a very sore arm, but Aidan finally got a feel for the rhythm of battle. All it took was an opening, where the man's own arrogance took care of his self. The look on the Sacaen's face was absolutely priceless when the heavily armored knight flanked his from the side, unable to defend his self. Wyrmheart smashed the man in the side with his shield, knocking him back.
Unlike before, he didn't lose the momentum, and followed it up swiftly with a smooth thrust of the spear, slicing the mans arm. He groaned in pain before he noticed the ball of steel coming right at him, finding a forceful knee crashing right into his gut. That wasn't the end, while he cringed in pain and loss of breath, a heavy steel head butt rammed right into his unarmored skull. The crowd gasped, left speechless by the sudden upset. The swordsman stumbled for a few more moments before regaining his self. "Heh... better then I thought. I'm going to have a headache for a month you jerk." He laughed, enjoying it more then he let on.
The crowd roared, the chants started to sound a little more like the arena name of a certain knight. He felt a bit embarrassed, but paid it no mind. Now wasn't the time to let himself get a big head, that's what got Shadowstep in trouble. Aidan nodded at his opponent, a smile on his face. No one knew who he was anyways, a smile couldn't hurt. "Right on. Let's give these people a fight to remember." The swordsman barked with laughter.
The man rushed at incredible speeds, however the eyes of Wyrmheart were finally adjusting to the jerky, swift movements. He countered the blow with a thrust of his shield, right before the blow connected. Aidan's superior strength won out in the end, and Shadowstep was sent reeling. The spear thrusted right towards the man, but the swordsman was able to sidestep it, following up with his own attack. A swift slash at the armored man, attacking his shoulder this time, and leaving yet another deep gash in the steel.
This armor was crap, his old armor would of never given way quite so easily. It was actually beginning to distract him on just how easily the armor was being damaged. The man took a step back and held his blade low, coming right at him. Aidan was heavily armored, but each of the blows still hurt him, and it was beginning to show. The blade clashed right into his unshielded side, the silver combating with the steel and trying desperately to strike flesh.
On the other hand, Shadowstep's was injured, and he could really tell with each blow being weaker then the last. Things were starting to wind down, the crowd continued it's mixed cries, their voices fighting to show who should win this match. It all sounded like a giant blur of noise. Shadow rushed around, jumping from point to point, making it hard to get a clear shot at him. Coming around from behind, he aimed right for the damaged bit of armor, determined to cut right through. Instead he got a lance shaft in his gut, and he hastily retreated before the knight could follow up.
This kept up for what felt like an eternity. Shadowstep utilized his incredible speed to make constant attacks, Wyrmheart taking them and predicting the man's actions before attacking his self. Shadowstep, however, appeared to be winning in the long run. Even if his attacks didn't attack his flesh, each one still struck home, and caused pain to the armored man. Meanwhile, Aidan's attacks were few and far between. It seemed for every time Aidan struck, Shadowstep countered twice. Still, despite this, neither of them gave up, even if the crowd had written this off as another one of Shadowstep's victories.
"It's over, he never stood a chance."
"What did I tell you? Just watch. I promise, it'll be good."
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Aidan Lowell
Griffon Knight
Symbol of Rebellion
Ten years is far too long to be a stranger in your own home.
Posts: 265
Bern Fame: 4
Illia Fame: -4
Profession: High Consul in the Bernese Senate
Affiliation: Bern
Affinity: Thunder
OoC Alias: Elias
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Post by Aidan Lowell on May 20, 2010 19:15:20 GMT -6
"I think it's about time we ended this. Can you hear them? The crowd's restless." He tilted his head up at the roaring crowd, and he smiled. It was a... disturbing smile, he fully enjoyed this fight... Aidan would be lying if he said he didn't enjoy it himself. "Come on!" Before the words hit Aidan's ears, he was off, moving even faster then ever before. It was impossible to keep up, even his sight was tricking him, he could swear he saw more then one of him. He circled around the knight, out pacing him a hundred fold, this whole battle Aidan was forced to simply counter, he could never fathom to battle this man's swiftness. Performing a turn that would seriously injure a normal person, Shadowstep rushed. Faster and faster, right to wards the unsuspecting knight. He tried, really he did, to pull up his shield in time to block.
"Too slow!" The only thing that could be heard was the sound of the blade slicing through steel and flesh. The crowd died, every single person holding their breath. Blood fell onto the earthen ground, painting it red, as it dripped off the end of the silver blade.
"ARGH!!!" He screamed, he swore, he dropped his shield and ripped the broken off of his head, grabbing at the deep gash on his face. Blood ran down his face as everyone stared in aw. No one could of saw it, but at the very last moment, Aidan pulled back, turning the killing blow into... this.
"Noway! You should be dead!" He screeched, in complete disillusionment. The whole crowd seemed to be sharing Shadow step's reaction. There were gasps, chatter among the crowd. Most people wouldn't recognize the man, especially after being gone for so long and being injure like he was... but with this many people, there had to be atleast one man who knew who Aidan Lowell was. All X had on his face was a grin.
Aidan dropped the hand from his face, and scooped up his shield, with only one eye open he tossed the heavy chunk of metal right at the swordsman. Even in pain he fought, it was the soldier in him. While the metal chunk flew, another metal chunk rushed right at him, blood on his face.
The sudden chunk of metal was barely dodge by the stunned swordsman, he fumbled to the side while the shield continued to soar until it collided into the wall behind him. "Yeah, well," The angry knight called as Shadow step hopped right into his range. He looked down at the man with his remaining good eye. The adrenaline coursing, and the spear raised to end him. "Try harder next time."
Right through the leg, it took no care for the flesh in the way and just tore through, possibly crippling the man for life as the sickening sound of bone crunching could be heard throughout the arena. (Critical hit) In the last moment, he hesitated. He could of easily killed the man, right there as he tried to him. It was the arena, death wasn't uncommon, but Aidan...
The crowd exploded in cheers. There was only one word on the mouths of all, and that was Reheat.
"Wow... You sure know how to pick em."
"Of course." Mr. X shoved his hands into the pockets of his outfit. "I'm never wrong." He looked down with curious eyes. "I am, however, pleasantly surprised at this outcome. I guess Shadowstep forgot all about my bribe halfway through... typical arena fighter bravado. Getting so worked up... He didn't realize no matter what he did, this battle would be Aidan's. It would be Bern's. Still... more gold for my pockets." The slightest of glimmers twinkled in his hand, but he stuffed it away before anyone could see. The sly smirk remained on his face, looking like a delirious madman... and maybe he was.
The next time he saw that man, he was in the medical tents. A cleric tending to his newfound scar, while another tried to save Shadowstep's leg. Must be difficult to work here with all the injuries, at least you'd never be out of work. Mr. X clapped slowly as he strolled into the room, looking proud of himself. "Ah, Wyrmheart, or maybe I should say Sir Lowell? That battle was absolutely divine, sure to be the talk of the town for months to come." No scolding for talking? No murder for removing his helmet? Nah, those were thing he wanted all along, weren't they? "And your reward? I will finally tell you what you want to know."
That's right... Aidan had almost forgot in all that madness. "What is it, what is so important that I had to almost die?"
"That's an easy one. However, you aren't in the position to know. Maybe after the next little favor..." No, never again. "Iris wanted me to send you a message. She says that she misses you." His eyes widened. Of all the things he expected to hear, of all the dirty secrets he thought would be exposed, all the passive aggressive manipulation he saw coming.... that was by far the last thing he'd ever think would be said... and also the most painful. Compared to this, the scar was nothing.
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Aidan Lowell
Griffon Knight
Symbol of Rebellion
Ten years is far too long to be a stranger in your own home.
Posts: 265
Bern Fame: 4
Illia Fame: -4
Profession: High Consul in the Bernese Senate
Affiliation: Bern
Affinity: Thunder
OoC Alias: Elias
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Post by Aidan Lowell on May 22, 2010 12:36:40 GMT -6
He touched at the mark on his eye, squinting a bit in pain. Back in his old getup, and out of that arena for good now. The mysterious Mr. X was no where to be seen, and not a single drop of the prize money either for that matter. All he seemed to have now is a bunch of people staring and whispering at him, hopefully it wasn't anything much. Still... it was pretty hard to mistake him, especially now.
X pocketed every single piece of gold that could of been won, and if his earlier comment was anything to go by, he probably scored a lot on his bet. Still... Aidan couldn't help but wonder what he was going to use it for. Also, Aidan was mad that he had to rebuy his food, since someone stole his bag.
"Ah, one room please." He said to the clerk, a woman who was looking down at her things rather then the man who talked to her.
"Sorry, try the place down the street, we're all booked on account of the tourney." She snapped at him.
"O-oh. I see. Very well then." I guess it's my fault for not coming earlier like Aevian.
She looks up at him. "I hear the Cat's Call has a fe... wait." Her eyes instantly stare at his scar, making him feel awkward.
"Wh-what?"
"You... You're that one guy. Um... um.... Aidan Lowell, that's it. You won the tourney!" Wow rumors spread fast. "Come on, I have a room here. It just opened up earlier, a two bedder, but if I have the maids focus on it, it'll be ready in no time."
"Oh. Thank you then." Wait... did Lyar have a room already? Normal bouts are probably open by now, and he's probably raising hell. "Does a man named Lyar have a room here yet?"
"Nnnnno. No, he doesn't."
"Oh, well, if he comes to try and get a room, tell him he's welcome to share mine. You'll know him if you see him, giant, blue haired, and carries an axe bigger then your head."
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Aevian
The "Before" years
[M:30]
Posts: 114
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Post by Aevian on May 24, 2010 12:51:12 GMT -6
A good part of the day had passed her by. Aevian's eyes slid open slowly, and she felt suddenly miserable. Rubbing at her eyes, removing sleep with each motion, Aevian began to stand up, and lost her footing as soon as her boot hit the floor. With a curse, she grabbed hold of the chair, but that only further toppled over, and now she lay crumpled on the floor, as if her legs were dead. Quickly pulling herself together, she began to stand, and felt a sudden jolt o pain as pressure on the bottom of her feet made contact with the boot, and with a groan, she knew what was wrong. Her legs had fallen asleep.
With a few quick and slightly painful stamps of her feet, she tried to rouse her body, but when she stood, that tingling was almost unbearable. Moving to the doorway slowly, she picked up her axe which was against the wall, and belted it to her back, and threw open the heavy wooden door. In the hallway, there was nothing really to see, so she didn't bother lingering where she might conjest traffic flowing from room to room, as maids seemed eager to do their work and go.
Stepping downstairs, she gave a look at Aidan, and with a smile, she rubbed the back of her neck, moving towards him before would retire himself, as he seemed about to do.
Once moving closer, she noticed something different about him, the way he held himself, and he was rubbing a scar, did he have that before? She was sure he didn't. With a shake of her head, she thudded up to him, her boots audible on the wooden floorboards.
"Wow, how long was I out for? Did you have fun?"
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Aidan Lowell
Griffon Knight
Symbol of Rebellion
Ten years is far too long to be a stranger in your own home.
Posts: 265
Bern Fame: 4
Illia Fame: -4
Profession: High Consul in the Bernese Senate
Affiliation: Bern
Affinity: Thunder
OoC Alias: Elias
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Post by Aidan Lowell on May 24, 2010 13:11:01 GMT -6
Ah, it was Aevian who was... kinda sorta stumbling. She looked kinda rough, had she been asleep since they got here? "Oh, a few hours I suppose." He grabbed at his chin and thought for a moment. They arrived in Lacuna at about noon, but it was still clearly day when he wandered in here. He would have to say it's about dinnertimeish. So... "I think about four." A lot had happened in four hours, hasn't it?
"And no, no fun was had by me. Just pain." He smirked, feeling a little more open with himself then when he started this journey. My back aches, I almost went half blind, I have twice as many bruises as I came here with, and now people are bothering me all the time. Still... I guess it was kinda fun. Maybe just a little there at the end.
"I haven't seen Lyar all day, even when I was at the arena. Do you know where he is?" Well, she was sleeping, so that's probably a big ol no. It didn't hurt to ask though.
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Lyar
The "Before" years
[M:0]
Incapacitate? I thought you said DEcapitate!
Posts: 155
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Post by Lyar on Jun 26, 2010 21:53:15 GMT -6
It was these words, as if summoned by some mystical force, that the door to the inn burst open, the light obscuring details from the large figure until he stepped forth, shutting door behind him. The giant, black armored man was carrying something gold and shiny in one fist, holding it up high for all to see. Apparently he had gone to the arena as planned, running battles in an effort to make money to help rebuild the home, but...
...all he got was a shiny trophy instead. Oh well, it wasn't TOO bad or anything. Turning head this way and that, he finally caught sight of the two people he was searching for, and happily bounded on over," Well, hopefully we all had fun without me, hmmm?" he was oblivous to Aevian's just-waking-up-ness and the new scar on Aidan's face, adrenaline still making him as bouncy as ever.
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