Graded &nbsp; [The Underbelly] An Unexpected Demise

Underneath her helmet, Orchid rolled her eyes. Xix has no way of ensuring Orchid's payment for this little scheme and he knows it. With things going on, no one is going to pay them to fight, and Xix probably just wants to shed some blood since he couldn't fight the champion. Ordinarily Orchid would ignore him and move on, however he ended up getting two more people involved and they decided to throw some barbs at her too. Orchid knew that she should be above such petty insults, but then again if she doesn't answer now, it'll only drag her already nonexistent rep through the mud. No doubt another one of Xix's schemes to make sure Orchid gets involved whether she wants to or not. Still, there was some merit into getting involved in this.

As it stands, Orchid was a nobody. She hasn't even gotten a chance to match up against other new bloods, so she's untested. People are restless and want their hero. What Xix proposed was... Not foolproof, but it could at least serve as a distraction. And if nothing else, people who don't want to mull on the loss of Auregnog could focus on Xix, the potential new champion, and subsequently Orchid, the new rising star. Orchid didn't know much about Bingus and Dingus beyond the fact that have fought here before, so they have the experience. But that in itself could work in Orchid's favor if she beats them. It shows that she's strong enough to contend with some bloodied warriors of the arena. So as much as she hates gambling on the hopes that this unsanctioned battle will get her any sort of fame or fortune, it's either this or get nothing at all. And no way was Orchid going to walk out of this place empty handed.

Cracking her neck she looked at the two warriors. "I get that you're scared of Goblo considering that he's already defeated four men stronger than the both of you combined, but I don't understand your fear against me. Here I thought you would be leap at a chance at fighting a woman like me. But suppose since I'm not a strapping young boy, barely old enough to grow his own chin hairs, I don't catch your eyes. But fret not gentlemen, you'll find than I'm more than man enough for the both of you combined." Along with vague accusations of pederasty, Orchid casually flexes her muscles underneath her armor making the large woman look even bigger as the plates of her suit bulge, almost as if she could flex out from her suit. She was going to apply her Intimidation skill to show that she is, in fact, a worthy opponent against them. "If you really think you've earned your ranks, then square off against me and Goblo. Show them that you're worthy of being a champion and not some pit dog barking for scraps."

Elvario · Jun 9, 2022

Victorique Sopheana

Mentions: Dayle

Shatter Shard | Arthur

Skyhunter

Victorique glared at Arthur. “You're out here trying to pick a fight with these Red Star guys and you're telling me that I'm endangering us, just because I'm doing my job of investigating it by running through what we know?” She wasn't having it. “If I'm not even allowed to do that, there's little point to any of this to begin with. We won't stumble upon the answers just by sneaking through this place. Besides, if the champion is dead, you can bet that there are people spouting way more ridiculous nonsense about it as we're speaking.” She sighed. “I'm already not exactly the loudest due to certain.. size constraints... but if you want, I can speak even more hushed, if that soothes your mind a little.” That was the extend to which she was willing to compromise.

However, what Dayle was telling them was a lot more interesting. She's ignored most of his words as barely relevant, other than some generic grandstanding about his usefulness, but one part stood out far more than the rest. “Wait, hold up a second. When did you learn he was missing?” Recent was pretty non-descriptive, so they had to get their timelines straight. “I learned about it about [insert number of hours that Victorique would know but I don't] hours ago from the Adventurer's Guild.” She clicked her tongue. “It would make sense for someone in the Blood Guard to try hiding it for as long as possible in the hopes of not causing a panic, but failing to do so when he was expected in the Coliseum itself, but if what you say is true and the Blood Guard didn't know about it and was caught unaware, you're right, we'll have ourselves quite the conspiracy.”

That said, that logically brought up the next question. “If they're involved, it'd be odd for them to sent me in to investigate, unless they're setting me up, but I'd rather not jump to that as my first conclusion.” She pondered. “It seems more logical to assume that the Adventurer's Guild was tipped off on what was going to happen and that someone hoped they'd send in folks to add to the chaos, rather than sending in me to merely investigate.”

As for Dayle's point about the Blood Guard likely going to suspect them, Victorique had an idea. “That means we shouldn't tell them that we came here for that specific reason. We'll just tell them we're here because we heard rumours that something major was about to happen and that those rumours seemed to be more substantial than the average gossip. Then we can say that we only realised that it was about the champion's disappearance when we ran into you. That should make it a fair bit less convenient.” She was already starting to like this Dayle. He was actually appreciating her ability to reason and make conjectures. Meanwhile, she doubted if Arthur even knew what a conjecture was. Dayle was being the real Watson here, although she did put more faith in Arthur when it boiled down to safe-keeping.

As they were walking towards their destination, she realised she hadn't even introduced herself. “I'm Victorique, by the way.” She also turned to the other two (Zeke, Roy). “By the way, I don't think I've caught your names yet. If we're working together, it might be useful to have something to address you by.”

Contrary to popular Arthurian folklore, Victorique wasn't just a ramble-machine. She did actually keep an eye on her surroundings, having a good set of senses to stay on alert for what was going on in her surroundings. [Danger Instinct]

Grade D Cooldown (0/2)

Danger Instinct – Appraisal D, Heightened Hearing F, Heightened Sight F, Perception D, Investigation D, Insight D – Character relies on their ability to pick up on details that might be harmful to them, giving them a stronger awareness of all sorts of details regarding people, creatures and environments that might indicate danger. - Grade D – 2 post Cooldown

Shatter Shard · Jun 11, 2022

Dayle Keller
"Red Star's Bastard Dog"

Strength
Precision
Intelligence
Vitality
Speed

[ D ]
[ F ]
[ E ]
[ E ]
[ E ]

E

Active Titles:
Human | Thug | Unruffled

-Ryke-
Underbelly of Ryken, Colosseum

Code by: Shatter Shard

Dayle snorted as he watched the two's work relationship. It didn't seem good, but it wasn't bad enough to have it to be easily broken. He kept that in mind as he responded to Victorique. "Dayle." He introduced himself as he started walking backwards. "As already pointed out by the gentlemen over there." he remarked while he pointed at Arthur. The other two were facing forwards as they walked, but turned their heads to introduce themselves. "Name's Zeke." the sloppy guy said, glancing at the man near Victorique. "...Roy." the formal one spoke, glancing at the same person. "Don't worry about the eyes. This place is near Blooded Guard territory, no one would want to do shit." He looked at the people around them glancing their way, and scoffed before turning around to walk forwards.

"And about that plan." Dayle commented, sniffing a bit of air before continuing. "I don't think that's going to fly when things are high strung. You're underestimating the Blooded Guard's hatred against overworlders." However, Dayle shrugged and relented. "But who knows? Maybe that'll work." Dayle continued to be at the front as they all walked towards the colosseum. Until now, he could still hear the screams of chaos inside, but they have seemed to have become more controlled than before. What did that mean? It meant that the Blooded Guard have joined in on the fight and are beating everyone else to submission. As they arrived, he turned to look at the duo and pointed his thumb at the arena. "This has been going on for a few minutes, 20 minutes tops. That's also how recent I found out about the champion's disappearance. That's pretty big stretch from a few hours." He looked at the remaining guards that might've stayed to keep an eye on the outside as well. "And there's Auregnog's children." He then made a gesture as if welcoming the two to go first. "Well, after you."

Mentions:

Skyhunter · Jun 12, 2022

The Underbelly

Arthur Verg

Arthur's eye twitched when Victorique spoke up again, he turned his head to the halfling and stared at her with those same cold dead eyes, " The adults are talking, settle down before I place you in timeout. And I'm not looking for a fight, wouldn't be much of one anyways. " Arthur obviously dug at her height of that being a child. It should have been known that Arthur wasn't below using such jokes, he followed alongside the group looking ahead of them at the large arena that was standing tall before them, sounds of yelling, screaming and fighting could be heard from the entrance, hell it could be heard a couple miles away from the arena, they were lucky a fire didn't start. Or an explosion going off. Or even the arena falling over on it's side. Coming up to the two guards that held spears and shields, they blocked the entrance with their spears, " Halt! No one is allowed inside until the riot has been culled. That includes the Academy's flunkey. " One of them was talking about Arthur who didn't say anything but had a look of his usual coldness, while Arthur always looked like he wanted to kill you. He was calm, Arthur knew they were taunts to get him to do something, just like Arthur does to people. A means of controlling a person. Something Arthur look into now.

" Oi. No children allowed either. " One of the guards pointed to Victorique, Arthur turned his head to the side and had a small smirk on his face before shutting it down looking back at the two guards, the other lightly tapped the other guard with his spear, " Hey, dumb nuts, that's eh halfling. Get your damn eyes checked, stupid. " The other grumbled. Now one thing that doesn't get by is disrespect, it makes one look bad if they take disrespect without doing anything. Especially if it happens in front of people. " Wha did yoo sayah? " The guard turned his head, " You focking want to run that by me one more time, limp dick? " He continued. The other guard laughed, " Please, dumb nuts, don't act like you're anything strong, we see how yah look at Lykra in there, the only thing you'll have around your cock is your hand in soapy water, so why don't you shut your mouth and listen- " Immediately the other guard dropped his weapons and tackled the other guard, the two beginning to fight it out as Arthur stood there watching with an unamused face. He looked up from the two fighting children in adult bodies and quietly walked on into the arena while the two rolled along the ground beating on one another, taking their helmets off to hit each other. " Children... " Arthur scoffed under his breath as he made his way into the large arena, it was pretty bad within, there was people fighting everywhere, Blooded Guards taking on patrons of the arena. It was a total shit show. But then there would be a loud call across the arena, " LADIES AND GENTLEMEN! WE HAVE A FIGHT BETWEEN TWO TEAMS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW! THE TWO BALTH TWINS, BROTHERS BORN AND RAISED HERE IN THE UNDERBELLY! AND ON THE OTHER TEAM, WE HAVE XIX, GOBLO! AND WITH THE GOBLIN, A NEWER FACE WHO HAS HAD A COUPLE FIGHTS SO FAR! STRONG AND POWERFUL, ABLE TO BREAK A MAN INTO TWO, THE FEMALE ORC WARRIOR, ORCHID, THE NEW RISING STAR! "

The Bloody Defiance

" What did you say? " One of the twins stopped in his tracks, turning to face Orchid and Xix. The small, armored goblin smiled; he knew they got the fight, and it would be a good one. " What did you focking say, bitch? " the man stomped his way back up to Orchid, even though she towered over the man, his brother turned and tried to stop his angry brother. Before Orchid could do anything, she would feel hands on her chest and a sudden force push her back. Only moving a couple steps back the man was ready to rumble, " Let's focking go! I'll tear your head off your shoulders and skull fuck you! " he was held back by his brother who wanted to kill Orchid now, again, talking trash in the Underbelly and taking it was seen as weak. And looking weak and strong in a environment such as this was the difference between respect and disrespect. between life and death. Xix smirked, he took a step forward, " So this means we have a fight then? " He asked, the man still struggling to get out of his brothers grasp was growling. " You're damn right you little green shit! I can't wait to tear your eyes out of your head! " he roared at Orchid. He was finally dragged off by his brother and Xix turned to the tall Orchid, " Nice job with that, I wasn't expecting a blow up like that but either way, nice job. " Xix had both of his hands on his hips nodding at the tall orc. He then waved a hand, " Come on, we have to next talk to someone that'll get everyone's attention. " Xix explained as he walked off, as Orchid followed the goblin to a chain operated elevator where a hooded woman was holding a clipboard looking over it. " Oi, Sticker. " Xix said walking up to the man, the woman would jump turning to Xix and Orchid, her face was revealed and she was a siren. " Oh. " She calmed herself.

" Xix, it's you. You scared me, I thought those rioters got in. " She explained sounding worried, " Rest easy, Sticks, I have a idea of how we can stop this riot. It may not work but I don't see anyone else coming up with any ideas. " The goblin explained. " We are going to see if a fight with the Twin Balth Brothers will cull this crowds bloodthirst if they watch us tear one another apart. " The goblin explained, the Siren nodded with a smile, " I see. " Her strange eyes moved to Orchid, " And you found yourself a very strong companion it seems. Amazing. " She seemed very kind, it was almost weird in a place like the Underbelly. " So, Xix, did you want to bet on yourself on winning? " She asked, Xix laughed, " Of course, baby. I might as well attempt to gain some sort of money out of this if this plan doesn't work. " The goblin explained, looking at Orchid, Xix nodded his head to the Siren known as Sticker. " This is where you'll start making money, Bigums, only certain people know about this, Sticker here will make sure you get paid if you come back alive. Bet your money and come onto the elevator. Sticker here will do the rest. " Xix made his way over to the elevator that lead to the arena and stood on it with his arms crossed while having a huge smile on his face. " Just hand me however much you want to place on your side winning and join little Gobby over there. " Sticker smiled, this was of course highly illegal, but this this was the Underbelly. There was also something happening between these two as well. When Orchid was done betting her money and getting ready, approaching the elevator and stepping onto it, there was four big men on both sides of the elevators, pulling the chains and moving the elevator up. Then an announcement would come ring through the arena.

" LADIES AND GENTLEMEN! " The announcement started. " WE HAVE A FIGHT BETWEEN TWO TEAMS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW! THE TWO BALTH TWINS, BROTHERS BORN AND RAISED HERE IN THE UNDERBELLY! AND ON THE OTHER TEAM, WE HAVE XIX, GOBLO! AND WITH THE GOBLIN, A NEWER FACE WHO HAS HAD A COUPLE FIGHTS SO FAR! STRONG AND POWERFUL, ABLE TO BREAK A MAN INTO TWO, THE FEMALE ORC WARRIOR, ORCHID, THE NEW RISING STAR! " It was that Siren, Sticker, she was the announcer and bookie, or at least one of them. As the elevator rose, they would find themselves in a dark room, with two large doors closed. They would be able to see light from the other side through the outline of the doors. " Get ready, Bigums, it'll be a fight for sure. These brothers are pretty good on their teamwork. Dingus isn't so much easy to anger so I'll take him. Bingus is though, you already pissed him off so he's yours. It'll break their formation and teamwork. Then it should be an even fight. They do carry multiple weapons so beware of that as well. " Xix explained. Then the doors opened up and Xix made his way out into the light where they would see people were still fighting, a lot have calmed down though to watch the fight. " it's somewhat working. " Xix whispered, even though they couldn't really hear over the fighting and yelling. Ahead of them were the brothers coming out, wearing light armor and helmets, carrying very similar weapons, a spear, sword, shield, whip on the whip and dagger. " Fight! " Sticker called throughout the arena. Xix pulled out his khopesh and smirked, " Good luck, Bigums. " He moved to the side smirking at his opponent, " Talk your shit, break their formation. "

Mentions:

Lucius Cypher

Lucius Cypher · Jun 12, 2022

Tags:

Orchid's goading worked, getting one of the brothers to be pissed enough to accept her challenge. She was half-tempted to strike back when he pushed her, but she tempered her emotions. Even if she could kill him here, it wouldn't get her any money, and it'll just draw unwanted attention to her. And not the sort of attention she wants if she intends to be a somewhat legitimate gladiator. With the two brothers off to gear up for battles she looks down to Xix. She still doesn't trust the goblin but as long as she understood that she is merely being used by him she can cope with this temporary partnership. This isnt a geasture of friendship, just alliance of convinience.

Soon after Xix leads Orchid to a Siren. Both women were surprised, as Orchid didn't know who this lady was. But apparently this is where gladiators will go to bet and win money. Orchid could see the obvious ethical issues of letting gladiators bet on battles they're going to participate in, but this place was no church, and the law here is kept only by the blade. If Orchid proves capable enough to get away with it, than she's earned her right to do this. And while Orchid didn't have much money, she decided to bet all of her coin regardless. If she wins, it'll be a huge payout. And if she loses, she's dead, so it's not like she needs it where she's going. Once Orchid got her receipt for her bet, she tucks it away underneath her armor and joins Xix at the elevator.

Stoically Orchid would do one final check up on her gear. Her armor was strapped firmly, and her weapon oiled and sharpened. When she saw her opponents she could see they had some classic gladiator weapons. A sword and shield primarily, with a spear for longer ranges. The whip and dagger was a bit unusual, but she supposed that both are suitable for different ranges. The whip would largely be useless against her armor, but Orchid needed to be wary of how it could be used to tangle her limbs if she doesn't pay attention to one of the brothers. Beyond that, Orchid was confident she could beat at least one of them.

Xix was going after Dingus, the calmer of the two. Bingus was going to be her opponent. Lightly armored meant light in their feet, so as long as Bingus doesn't do anything stupid he could easily out manuever Orchid. Orchid herself knew this, which was likely why Xix wants her to taunt Bingus. It was a sound strategy: Anger has a way of making people do stupid things, and if nothing else if Orchid can force Bingus's attention on her, that keeps him from working with his brother.

As the fight began Orchid approached, moving away from Xix to force the brothers attention apart. She'll have to fight defensively at first, but that suits her just fine. As she approaches Bingus she makes a rather exaggerated look down at his loins, then shrugs in an almost apologetic way. "I know you said you were going to skullfuck me, but cripes, my clit has a bigger bulge. Are you sure you aren't Dingus' sister?" Orchid had to fight the urge to giggle as she got into her fighting stance, ready to lash out violently as she lashes out verbally. If her gambit works, Bingus is going to settle matters with Orchid personally. She lowers her guard to bait him to try and attack her, and once he's in range she'll be able to retaliate before his blade could reach her. Even if he tries to attack with the whip, she was confident her poleaxe could match the reach and ensure her blow lands first.

Grade F Cooldown (0/0)
Interception - Fighting Style Polearm (Brace) E - So long that Orchid is armed with a suitable polearm, she can immediately attack enemies who come within range of her weapon before they can act first. This lets her get the first strike to hit the opponent. Can only be used on opponents who are not within her melee reach: enemies already in melee are unable to be targeted by this ability until they leave her reach. - Grade E- 1 Post Cooldown

Grade E Cooldown (0/1)
Trip Attack - Fighting Style Polearm (Tangle) E - When Orchid successfully strikes an enemy with an attack, she can knock them to the ground and leave them vulnerable. Orchid can use this ability with any suitable polearm, such as throwing spears, lances, halberds, etc. - Grade E - 1 Post Cooldown

Elvario · Jun 13, 2022

Victorique Sopheana

Mentions: Dayle

Shatter Shard | Arthur

Skyhunter

Well, a conspiracy was all but confirmed when Dayle confirmed the time-line didn't match up. They'd learned about the champion's disappearance way later than she had. “How big do you estimate the chance that one of the Blooded Guard was able to hide it for this long, even from the other Blooded Guards?” She herself didn't think it likely, but it was an alternative hypothesis she wished to at least consider for a bit.

Meanwhile, she snapped back at Arthur. “The halflings look like children joke. I haven't heard that one a thousand times before. You should go to a comedy bar with it, I bet they'll laugh themselves to death over it.” She already didn't expect him to be useful on an intellectual level, but now he was just outright hindering her.

She was about to snap again when one of the guards called her a kid, but for some reason, his companion already did so for her. For a moment, she had to resist from asking the one that'd corrected on her behalf to knock the other's teeth out. Sadly enough, they had to use this moment to proceed onwards. Victorique had gladly watched them beat each-other up for a bit more, but that sadly enough wouldn't be an option.

As they entered the arena, there was enough 'beating up' to be seen though. People were rioting left and right. Most dominantly present, however, were a few folks battling it out in the arena itself. “Are they trying to present an alternative to the battle against the champion?” Victorique asked aloud, not to anyone in particular. “Hmmm... that might work.” She looked over at Dayle and Arthur before continuing on a hushed tone. “Let's use the distraction they're offering to try sneaking into the champion's room. He must have some spot of his own in this arena, right? I bet I'll be able to find something there.”

Shatter Shard · Jun 14, 2022

Dayle Keller
"Red Star's Bastard Dog"

Strength
Precision
Intelligence
Vitality
Speed

[ D ]
[ F ]
[ E ]
[ E ]
[ E ]

E

Active Titles:
Human | Thug | Unruffled

-Ryke-
Underbelly of Ryken, Colosseum

Code by: Shatter Shard

Dayle watched, grinning as the two dealt with the guards. However, his expression didn't last long as he was dumbfounded at the unexpected situation. He didn't expect the guards to start beating each other up, which was a weird thing considering their supposed de facto leader was more controlled than these people. For being guards, they lacked discipline. Disappointment welled in his heart as he shook his head. He only spared them a contemptuous glance before following the two inside.

Inside the colosseum, Dayle couldn't help but whistle at the chaos happening around him. His two men took both of his sides, deterring anyone from approaching him. One of the rioters got too close, and so was caught unaware when he was kicked back deeper into the fray. "Filth..." Roy muttered under his breath as if he had stepped on a turd. Dayle snickered at that, before turning his attention to the new announcement, and then to the people fighting at the center of the arena. "They're still trying to continue on with the show?" He took a glance at the arena, recognizing the goblin the had the honor of fighting the champion ripped away from him. "Yikes, it's the goblin." Zeke commented as he flicked his hand, wiping away the blood on his fist after punching away another straggler. "You think this'll work, boss?" He asked, with Dayle shrugging in response. "I don't know. Can't really wrap my head around what those guys are thinking." He said, scoffing.

"As for the both of you, the easiest way is jumping down and going in those gates. That'll surely take to wherever they holed up the gladiators." He said in a quiet voice, pointing at the arena gates. "But that's stupid, so instead you can go in that entrance over there." He nodded at a far entrance. Every colosseum had an entrance towards the gladiator lobbies, but it was assumed that they would be more guarded than the arena gates. "You guys better make it sneaky and fast. The Blooded Guards are slowly gaining control." He warned, turning his head towards the number of guards holding the rioters back.

Mentions:

Skyhunter · Jun 15, 2022

The Bloody Defiance

Arthur Verg

" No. " Arthur heard Victorique's question, " They are trying to calm the crowd down by giving them a fight. Or there was some arguing going on and these fighters took it to the arena. " Arthur turned his head when Victorique suggested they find the champion's room, Arthur was bumped by a couple of the fighting rioters, causing Arthur to stumble into Victorique, he growled and retaliated by grabbing one of them and punching them in their nose, causing blood to spray into the air, Arthur released the man then kicked him into the second man sending the two back into the crowd, letting out a huff of frustration, he looked to Victorique, " Anywhere is better than here. " He said in his usual cold tone. looking before them the chaos was slowly beginning to turn around. Arthur heard Dayle over the yelling and moved pass them, he could see through the crowd some Blooded Guards beginning to move their way towards them. " Do you know where it is at then Dayle? " Once Dayle explained of the arena doors, looking to where he was speaking of, he saw the arena doors, the entrances each team took. " That's the best we got. Come on. " Arthur told the group, moving through the still raging crowd, he pushed his way down towards the front of the arena, punching anyone that stood in his way. Getting to the front of the crowd, looking to see how far the entrances were from where they were. Before Arthur suggested anything the echoed words rang out. "I know you said you were going to skullfuck me, but cripes, my clit has a bigger bulge. Are you sure you aren't Dingus' sister?" Arthur's eyes widen a bit as he watched the fight start. He realized that this would be certainly capture the crowd's attention, he then looked at how far he was from the arena's ground, sighing, Arthur looked back at his companions before jumping over and falling down into the arena. Landing, Arthur stumbled backwards into the wall before he turned his head upwards backing up, " Come on, little girl. You want into the Champion's quarters, follow through then. " He put his hands up like he would to a child, " I'll catch you- Don't give me any attitude and hurry it up before we get snatched up by the guards. " Arthur called over the cheering.

Xix stood straight up as he heard her voice ring out, it was amplified for all to hear, he knew who it was, it was that Siren, Sticker. Orchid's trash talk was heard all throughout the arena, causing most rioters to stop and turn, then the laughing began throughout the arena. Bingus growled at her words, ready to speak until he heard the laughing, he stopped moving and looked all around seeing that the rioters had stopped their fighting and turned their attention on him and Orchid. The insult to his manhood captured them. Bingus was steaming under his helmet as he was now the laughingstock. Dingus even stopped and to look over to his brother, who was shaking in rage. Dingus shook his head, " Brother, don't. " He tried to talk to his brother, but Bingus was already making his way towards Orchid, throwing his helmet off to get a better look at his foe, this large orc. Bingus roared a rageful one, if looks could kill, Orchid would have died over a thousand times, " I'LL FUCKING KILL YOU! " The man roared as the laughs continued, his reputation was now sullied thanks to this. Holding both sword and spear, he thrusted the spear forward at Orchid jumping into the air.

Dingus sighed deeply, " Fuck. " He turned his attention to Xix who was prepared himself, the two began to clash, their weapons clanging as the fighting started, Xix was extremely agile, showing off his speed and strength as he was able to easily deflect attacks and parry others. Dingus wasn't a joke either, switching to other weapons through their fight, using the spear to push Xix back then use the whip to try and disarm Xix. Goblo was able to deflect the attacks with his khopesh, getting pushed back with range despite his speedy nature he was still being fought back by longer range weapons. But as the whip tried to disarm Xix once more, Xix caught the whip with his hand, despite wincing in pain from being whipped. Xix pulled the whip out of the hands of Dingus. The crowd cheered at this action as Xix tossed the whip away. He then moved forward towards the brother who was smiling under his helmet, he tossed his spear into the air then caught it, cocking his arm back and throwing it straight at Xix who easily rolled forward avoiding it, once on his feet he brought his weapon up to block the sword coming down at him, a loud clang filled the arena as Xix pushed him back creating space. The two squared off and circled around one another, Dingus having a sword and dagger in his hands as Xix had his only weapon in his hands.

As for Orchid, Bingus came at her with the rage of a madman, literally, his spear attack flowed fiercely through the air, his eyes wide with rage. Orchid's counterattack with her polearm would strike the brother, her spear stabbed through his shoulder but it was as if he wasn't fazed, his spear would strike her helmet, going for a quick kill but her helmet would save her as it was knocked off her head, Bingus stumbled backwards as he pulled the spear out, seeing her face only pissed the man off more, unable to feel pain the more angry he was. He charged at Orchid with his spear, sliding forward as he thrusted it forward, orchid would avoid this attack, using her polearm as a bat or stick since he was too close for her to strike him with the halberd's end without being attacked in retaliation. Using the polearm to instead hook and trip Bingus, the crowd cheered once he was on the ground. Bingus groaned hitting the ground, his eyes looked up at Orchid as she prepared to strike him next.

Bingus quickly spun around and brought his sword out, blocking her next attack, he then used his whip from his other hand to swing and strike Orchid in her head, hitting her temple rather than face since she was closer now. This would cause the orc to back off as Bingus rolled away and got to his feet quickly, holding sword in one hand pointing it at Orchid with his whip in his other hand, smiling. The crowd roared, all of their attention on the fight now, the riot was successfully culled and now all that left was for the fight to finish up. " How does that feel, bitch? I'll do worst to in front of everyone, your death will be a slow one and these people will love and revel in it! " Bingus told the orc, despite her pretty face, Bingus wanted her dead more than anything right now.

Mentions:

Lucius Cypher

Lucius Cypher · Jun 16, 2022

Tags:

Orchid wasn't expecting her taunts to get broadcasted to the whole building. She didn't necessarily mind, as this means she doesn't need to waste her breath shouting her insults and getting everyone's attention. More importantly she successfully got Bingus' angry enough to remove himself from his brother and fight her one-on-one, giving Xix the perfect chance to duel Dingus and keep both of the brothers from being able to support each other. From there Orchid and Bingus clashed. She shruck his shoulder, the spike of her poleaxe going deep, but rage kept him going as his spear cut into Orchid's helmet, slicing off the straps and causing it to fall. She cursed quietly, bemoaning the fact that she was using second hand equipment. She needs to consider upgrading her armor when all is said and done. When he charged again she tripped him, knocking him to the ground. She was going to go for a quick kill, but Bingus wasn't done yet, blocking her blow and slashing her across the face with his whip.

Blood flowed off her cheek but Orchid wasn't too bothered. The pain was exilurating. This really was getting her blood pumping, just like the first time she killed. And the second. And third.... In fact, she feels like this a lot whenever she's working. That thrill and ecstasy that makes her go mad. Without her helmet, Orchid flashed a lustful smile, fanning herself. "Not the most clever dirty talk I've heard, let's hope you're better fighting women then pleasing them." On the bright side, with Bingus losing his shield he lost a lot of his defensive abilities as well. While his sword and whip gives him more avenues for attack, Orchid can now go on the offensive without worrying that he could stall her attacks. He'll have to go on the offensive now, whereas Orchid can still trust her armor to protect her while she charges in.

Notably, Orchid very intentionally exposes her face as she goes to stab Bingus. She's banking on his rage making him do something predictable, like striking at her face, which means Orchid doesn't need to defend the rest of her body so much. Instead she can focus on dodging blows to her head while taking full advantage of her reach to close the distance and whittle Bingus down. With her helmet gone, Orchid's calm and cool demeanor begins to crack as her mad smirk showed that despite the dangers, she loves the violence and what is about to happen. "It's a shame we couldn't share a meal together. Put some meat on those bones. So soft, so tender. I'll make sure your death is clean, so that when I drag you back to my kitchen and bleed you out dry, you flesh and bone make a wonderful meal!" Expecting Bingus to try and close the distance, Orchid really goes ham on her intimidation to throw him off his game. To incite panic in him so that he flees, or attacks even more recklessly and make him more susceptible to Orchid's counter attack.

She goes running in with what looks like a thrust to the legs, but this is a feint. It's actually a set up so she can swing the hammer head of her poleaxe upwards, aiming to try and smash Bingus in the groin, chin, or his sword arm. All the while she describes what exactly she intends to do to him later, being mindful of his attacks but wanting to keep his attention on her face so she knows where he's going to aim his attacks. "I'll slice off your legs at the loins, debone them to make a roast and bake the femur for it's marrow. With love and care I'll extract your intestines and drain your blood to make black sausage. Mhmm... There might not be much in that thick skull of yours, but I'll mince your ears, your lips, and your brain into a fine pate that'll pair nicely with a buttery biscuit. Even though you'll die here, you'll keep me satisfied for at least a day."

Grade F Cooldown (0/0)
Attack of Opportunity - Fighting Style Polearm (Brace) E - Capitalizing on fleeing enemies, Orchid can lash out and strike foes with her polearms as they try to escape her, possibly preventing their escape entirely. Can only be used on opponents who are leaving her melee reach. - Grade E- 1 Post Cooldown

Grade E Cooldown (0/1)
Trip Attack - Fighting Style Polearm (Tangle) E - When Orchid successfully strikes an enemy with an attack, she can knock them to the ground and leave them vulnerable. Orchid can use this ability with any suitable polearm, such as throwing spears, lances, halberds, etc. - Grade E - 1 Post Cooldown

Elvario · Jun 17, 2022

Victorique Sopheana

Mentions: Dayle

Shatter Shard | Arthur

Skyhunter | Orchid

Lucius Cypher
Victorique spent a fair bit of effort dodging left and right whilst Arthur, Dayle, Zeke and Roy were punching folks left and right. It was pretty clear she hated the idea of even bumping into one of them. She did have the speed and movement to keep up, luckily, combined with some senses and perception to stay alert. That said, it was getting pretty tiresome. The latter was why Arthur managed to nearly knock her over. Suppressing her desires to snarl at him like an enraged chihuahua, she instead scoffed. “Agreed.” Anywhere was indeed better than this.

Arthur apparently wanted to go straight for the fighter's entrance. That was going to make them stand out like an elephant in a chicken coop, but perhaps they'd get away with it before the blooded guard was fully in control..? She sure hoped so. However, she was NOT, definitely NOT, absolutely NOT, in no way in ~~Isekai~~ hell going to just jump into the dude's arms. Whatever weird fetish he had would be something he'd have to take to the grave or choke on.

She quickly took in her environment. The walls weren't that high, but pretty vertical. The fighters were mostly stuck in the middle of the arena. The wall was jump-able, even by her short legs, if she were to bounce off from something first, she'd definitely make it. She could hear most of the fighting had calmed down by now... Within moments, she had decided on her route and method. That's when it was time to execute it. She hopped over the wall, but rather than jumping towards Arthur, she managed to stick to the wall in a gravity-defying manner, making her way across it in a diagonally downwards manner to get a bit closer towards the entrance they were aiming for.

Upon stepping down into the arena after a neat display of [Halfling Parkour] she smiled. Although she'd come across more as a child that was proud of their achievement, she felt pretty independent and proud of it regardless. “Well, let's go then.” She'd say to Arthur, clearly feeling quite satisfied with herself.

That look kinda vanished when she started to hear the Orc talk. You see, normally such talk wouldn't scare her, as it was just your average ruffian bluffing... but wit her level of insight (D) she realised there was a whole lot of genuineness to it. That green monster would really eat a guy. A shiver went down her spine. She'd best get out of the arena soon, before the Orc would spot her and decide she wanted an appetiser. “Let's hurry!” She called out to Arthur, with the prideful tone gone and a decent amount of concern having replaced it.

B Grade Cooldowns (0/4)

Halfling Parkour - Fast B, Wall Bouncing F, Wall Running F, Appraisal D, Heightened Hearing F, Heightened Sight F, Acrobatics F, Perception D - Character uses their senses and movement abilities to parkour through the environment. - Grade B - 4 Post Cooldown

Shatter Shard · Jun 18, 2022

Dayle Keller
"Red Star's Bastard Dog"

Strength
Precision
Intelligence
Vitality
Speed

[ D ]
[ F ]
[ E ]
[ E ]
[ E ]

E

Active Titles:
Human | Thug | Unruffled

-Ryke-
Underbelly of Ryken, Colosseum

Code by: Shatter Shard

Dayle looked at the two as they jumped into the arena. He leaned over, giving a thumbs up. However, Dayle isn't going to follow them. Instead, he'll stay back for a while, intending to catch the flak of the Blooded Guards. As an assumed "suspect", Dayle was confident that he could at least take the attention of some of the red bastards. What a coincidence, the two groups I hate are both red. Dayle snickered to himself and leaned back at the railing, taking in the audience of the colosseum. The crowd's energy was now redirected to getting excited with the ongoing match, giving Dayle a better look at the place itself. He scanned for the Blooded Guard's current captain, a.k.a Lykra, and wanted to keep tabs of her position. As he did so, he took on a confident pose as he waved at the approaching Blooded Guards.

Despite the Blooded Guard's superior position among the other underground organizations, they are currently not in the right state to create a commotion with a rival group. because of this, Dayle can leverage his status as a Red Star member to deter the guards from harming him. Even if the Underbelly was a lawless place, an unprovoked harm to a member of a rival group is bound to be a scandal that can be used against the only sort of 'law' in this place. More so if they did so in the assumption that the member was the suspect, even when there was no evidence backing up their claim. Dayle is currently "clean" from the crime, so he had a certain protection. As long as Dayle played his cards right, the Blooded Guards wouldn't be able to do anything to him.

Of course, he wasn't so selfless that he would sacrifice himself for some strangers. He had another objective; to negotiate with Lykra. Even if the information he had gained so far was something he couldn't prove, the fact that it circulated even at the overworld remained true. The discrepancy of the timeline of the info he had was a great bonus, as now he had heavier ammo to use in negotiation. If there's anything believable to the red bastards, or even to Lykra herself, it would be the fact that the overworlders had something to do with the disappearance of Auregnog. He was going to use this information to grant himself a benefit; that is cementing the fact that he wasn't involved in the champion's disappearance, as well as turning the underbelly's most powerful organization's interest to the overworld instead.

Mentions:

Skyhunter · Jun 21, 2022

The Bloody Defiance

Xix continued his battle with Dingus, the fight was close to even, while these two brothers were very strong together, on their own they were still a tough match, being very tactful and precise in battle. Swords clanged as a dagger wildly slashed through the air as Xix was being pushed back, even with his small stature and quick self, Dingus was keeping the fight at a fast pace and throwing overwhelming pressure on the goblin who was doing his best to keep up, block attacks and make sure he was watching his every move to look for an opening, eventually Xix found a opening, slashing quickly at the abdomen of Dingus who recoiled and backed up with a growl of pain. The crowd around them roared loudly at the scene. Dingus smirked at the surprise counter as he regained his composure and Xix was able to catch his breath. Xix twirled his khopesh as him and Dingus circled again, Dingus was getting closer to his whip again as Xix saw, quickly moving back as the dagger was thrown at Xix. This did catch the goblin off guard and had to think quickly, putting his hand close to his chest as it came like a speeding bullet, quickly grasping the handle as the blade barely stabbed through his armor. Xix's eyes widen for a moment and saw Dingus go for his whip again, Xix instinctively threw the dagger back at the human who was able to get his whip. As he stood up straight and turned to Xix, the dagger stabbed through his throat which made him stumble backwards. Dingus had a look of surprise on his face as he held the handle of the dagger, realizing his fate, dropping his sword he fell onto his knees then slumped over onto his side, a pool of blood forming around him, Xix exhaled deeply while the arena roared loudly at the sudden clean kill. Xix had a look of proudness on his face, looking at his kill and worthy opponent, Xix knew he would have lost if he was reckless against this human. His head then turned to Orchid and Bingus. He looked pass the two fighting contestants and saw a few people jump down from the arena side, he sighed deeply and shook his head, " Oh what the fuck is happening now? " He asked.

Bingus saw that his attack only exhilarated the orc, then the remaining brother remembered that was what he was fighting against, a damn orc. Bingus changed his stance up, into a more defensive one, his eyes still had rage in them as Orchid continued her attempts in taunting him, Bingus scoffed, " Please, you wouldn't survive a night with me, I may be a angry brute, but I still know how to please a woman, I could even show a certain orc a thing or two. " He was actually flirting with her now, Bingus still had anger on his face but he wouldn't be so easily taunted, he did wince in pain so maybe his anger was coming down adn he could now feel his wound which made him calm down. Seeing Orchid make the first move, intentionally exposing her face to try and bait a attack from Bingus, he knew this tactic, it was one he and his brother used in double battles with one being the decoy and the other being the counterer. Hearing her words of wanting to share a meal, Bingus smirked, " It wouldn't be a meal, it would be a date, Orc. And you would be the main course. " Bingus would gladly oblige as he then swung his whip over his head to create momentium and extended his arm out as he dragged the now flying whip around, looking to aim for Orchid's head, but not just her head, her eyes. While she did try to dodge the attack and continue her assault, the attack was able to get her now, the whip swiped her right eye, causing blood to gush, she would have to get it looked at after this fight if she survives.

Bingus saw her attack coming and was able to use his sword to deflect her swing at his legs but realized too late it was a feint, his eyes widen as he saw her polearm rise up towards him, quickly thinking he jumped backwards to try and dodge the attack, the attack missed his groin by mere inches but instead cracked him in his chin. Bingus blacked out for a moment from the impact of the attack and was thrown backwards with the momentium of his backwards jump, the arena erupted in roaring and cheering. Hitting the ground and rolling, Bingus laid on the ground, his eyes opened for a moment seeing the incoming Orchid coming, he was too groggy to move and looked over to his brother's fight but saw that it had ended quickly. with Xix as the victor and his brother's corpse on display, his own dagger in his throat. With the rage of the sun, Bingus rose up to his feet with wide eyes, blood dripping from his mouth, he spat out blood onto the arena floors, showing a bloody grin towards Orchid, dropping his whip and pulling out his dagger from his hand, holding a sword and dagger. He was down to the last of his weapons, but this was now do or die. " Come on you fucking bitch, as soon as I take your vision, I'll break your limbs and take you in front of this bloodthirsty and disgusting crowd for all to see, then I'll rip your throat out with my teeth. " Bingus' eyes were bloodshot and cold. His grin was a very concernign one, this was a man who now had nothing, his reuptation was most likely tarnished due to Orchid's talk and now his brother dead, the only one he trusted and loved. Only thing he wanted to do was to hurt Orchid, take her innocence and reap her of her life. Bingus took steps forwards with his arms spread out as if he was now taunting Orchid to come and strike him in his exposed body.

Arthur Verg

Arthur dropped his arms once he knew what Victorique was doing, he sighed quietly as he had a look of frustration on his usual cold face, he looked at the prideful halfling and his eye twitched, he was seething on the inside. This was probably one of the only times that he was attempting to be nice and be a team player and he got spat on. He did see that her look of pride turned to fear at the mention of the orc going to turn her opponent to food to chow on later, Arthur scoffed, " Looks like all that bravado of yours is all gone when you're not even on the menu. " Arthur walked pass her, giving her head a gentle pat as he headed for the arena entrance, he quickly looked back to see if Dayle was coming but saw he was not, Arthur growled and continued to move along, he turned his head to the fighting orc and human and stopped in his tracks seeing the orc. His eyes widen a bit at her beauty, her brutality and strength, her tactical movements. Arthur hasn't been this captivated since his old life, he had given up on love when he had to murder a woman he was sweet on with the gun he named her after. Staring at this orc, the visions and hallucinations of the dead disappeared. " Whoa. " Arthur whispered, he couldn't believe that he was finally able to see clearly.

Within the Stands

The Blooded Guard was making their way over to now Dayle, Zeke and Roy, with their lethal weapons out and ready to attack, they quickly pushed people out of the way and was able to surround the three in no time, weapons pointed at them, one of them scoffed, " Looks like the Red Star's Bastard Dog came back to the fighting dog pits. Came to watch or partake in the fighting, you rat? " One of them taunted, there was four of these guards, their armor were thick so Dayle's chains wouldn't affect them in the slightest, one of them stepped forward slamming the handle of their sword into the head of Zeke, knocking him onto the ground, " How about you lot tell us why you're back before we throw you into the fighting pits? " One of them demanded.

Elvario · Jun 22, 2022

Victorique Sopheana

Mentions: Arthur

Skyhunter

She glared back at Arthur. “You'd be careful around such folk too, if you were my size.” There was nothing wrong with having a sense of self-preservation and she didn't like him suggesting otherwise. Now being in the arena itself, she didn't want to stay here as much as second longer, so she headed over directly to the entrance that Orchid and Xix had entered from. Upon looking around, she realised there wasn't really a mechanism that could get it to lower down easily. At least not one that she could identify as such. Perhaps there was one at the bottom? She could already see the edges were small enough to drop down through, after which she should be able to wall-run down. Upon finding out that much, she looked back to Arthur. She had expected him to follow her, but apparently he hadn't done so.

In fact, Victorique could to see him standing there like a complete fool. “What in the world are you doing? Get over here!” She shouted, surprised and annoyed by his odd standstill in equal measures. In fact, she was even a tad bit concerned, so she rushed back over to make sure he hadn't been magicked into being unmoved-able or something. She may not like the guy, but she wasn't quite ready, willing or able to lose him here either.

Upon reaching him, she couldn't spot anything wrong however. That said, as she followed his line of sight, she was met with the bloody battle between Orchid and Bingus. Was he really just..? Had she been concerned for this..? That made her upset. “Get your desire to watch blood and gore fulfilled another time, we've got a mission and we're not even supposed to be here, remember!?!” She yelled. With the crowd going wild, she wasn't all that afraid of her voice being heard by anyone other than Arthur, who was relatively close to her.

Hopefully having snapped him out of it, she quickly informed him of her plan. “I'm not sure if we can get the lift to move from up-top, but it should be possible from down below. I can run down like I did with the arena and see if I can get it to lower from below, but you'll have to be waiting atop. I wouldn't like to run into anyone below the arena on my own.” Without awaiting his reply, she made it back over to the lift and slipped through the 'gap' between it and the wall. She was s till a bit tired from getting down into the arena, so she couldn't do it with as much grace and speed as she'd wish too, but she was still more than capable of running down along these walls with [Halfling Parkour C].

B Grade Cooldowns (1/4)

Halfling Parkour - Fast B, Wall Bouncing F, Wall Running F, Appraisal D, Heightened Hearing F, Heightened Sight F, Acrobatics F, Perception D - Character uses their senses and movement abilities to parkour through the environment. - Grade B - 4 Post Cooldown

C Grade Cooldowns (0/3)

Halfling Parkour - Fast C, Wall Bouncing F, Wall Running F, Appraisal D, Heightened Hearing F, Heightened Sight F, Acrobatics F, Perception D - Character uses their senses and movement abilities to parkour through the environment. - Grade C - 3 Post Cooldown

Lucius Cypher · Jun 22, 2022

Tags:

The stinging pain Orchid felt on her face brought a mixture of agony and ecstasy. It sometimes frighten her how before, pain was something she avoided for the obvious issues of suffering, but now pain felt pleasant. It's like how before she loved hot baths and now she can only get that same feeling if she's being boiled alive. Regardless, Orchid's injury wasn't something she was immediately worried about and continued her assault. She managed to catch Bingus with a feint, though instead of a groin shot it struck his chin, which was just as good. With a few moments of peace after knocking him down Orchid reposition herself, noting that Xix had managed to defeat Dingus. She wiped away the blood over her eyes just as Bingus got up, drawing a dagger now and daring Orchid to attack him. Despite arguably being at his weakest and most exposed Orchid knew now that the cornered beast will fight the hardest now. Still Orchid needed to be aggressive, but that doesn't mean she was going to be predictable.

Kicking up dust Orchid charged in with a mighty overhead swing. But she missed and by a long shot. That is, if actually hitting Bingus was the goal. No, Orchid didn't miss: she hit exactly where she wanted. Kicking up a massive cloud of dust and dirt to obscure Bingus's immediate vision he would only see the vague silhouette of Orchid, keeping a safe distance from him. What he might not see however was the spear that was thrown straight to his upper chest, aimed for the neck. Orchid had very intentionally manuevered herself to get closer to Bingus' spear and used a dust cloud to disguise the fact she picked it up and hurled it at him. She wasn't planning on letting Bingus get closer to her now, and with this effectively being a 2v1, Orchid can afford to play it much safer now. Not the flashiest or glorious way to fight but Orchid, ever the pragmatist, wasn't about to waste the opportunity for Xix to lend a hand. Plus she has no doubts the goblin wouldn't mind the record of killing two more gladiators under his belt.

Shatter Shard · Jun 23, 2022

Dayle Keller
"Red Star's Bastard Dog"

Strength
Precision
Intelligence
Vitality
Speed

[ D ]
[ F ]
[ E ]
[ E ]
[ E ]

E

Active Titles:
Human | Thug | Unruffled

-Ryke-
Underbelly of Ryken, Colosseum

Code by: Shatter Shard

"Ah fuck!" Zeke didn't see the head slam coming and nearly knelt to the ground, but Dayle deftly supported him before he could do so. "Calm down, you people. Showing aggression when we've done nothing so far is unreasonable, even for people like us." He said calmly. "I'm here as part of the audience, and I've never bothered to cause more trouble than there already is." He pointed out, before looking around for Lykra. "But if there's anything, I do have something to say to your captain, the Red Stained." He admitted. "I'm sure she will appreciate what I have to say." Zeke shook his head trying to re-orient himself, while Roy tried to calmly observe the situation. If anything were to happen, Roy was ready to spring into action.

Dayle was beginning to become suspicious of the Blooded Guards. Although he was eye-catching, given his affiliation to the Red Star, they were suddenly more aggressive to him than before. Did Lykra mark him and the Red Star as suspects? But even so, she shouldn't make so much assumptions without solid basis. As Auregnog's second, Dayle trusted her insight as the champion's closest aide. For such a strong person to believe Dayle or his syndicate to be part of their champion's disappearance... she was either not as great as he thought, or she admired the champion too much that it clouded her judgment. There was only one way to find out, and that was to talk to the Red Stained herself.

Mentions:

Skyhunter · Jun 26, 2022

The Bloody Defiance

Bingus was waiting for Orchid to attack but instead decided to be coward, despite her already being in a better position, he growled a bit and backed up, he still had his dagger and sword, he tossed his dagger into the air and caught it on its way down by the blade. As the cloud was brought up bingus threw the dagger through the cloud just as a spear came flying out of the cloud towards him. Bingus saw it coming. He stared as it came and blinked. " Oh. " He said just as it slid through his skin and flesh then through his entire body. Bingus felt the heavy spear go through his neck just as his hands grabbed the polearm when he dropped his sword. His eyes wide as he spat blood up but that wasn't the end of it, blood was spitting and flowing out of his wound down his back and chest. The crowd went wild, loud cheers erupted and almost shook the arena up. It was just like the usual. Blood and gore got this crowd pumped up and going. Bingus' eyes stayed on Orchid as his weakening body began to collapse, they were full of hatred, he did smile at her. Almost like he was mocking her. He fell forward but the end of the polearm only caught him as his body fell forward and hit the ground, causing the spear to keep going through his body, caking the handle in blood. But the knife that he did throw did stab into Orchid's armor, it didn't pierce her skin but it went stuck to where her heart was. Her armor had saved her life otherwise she would have most likely been dead.

Xix grabbed Orchid's arm from below, " Come on. We've won. Now we got something else going on. " The goblin released Orchid and made his way over to the entrance they came out of. Inside the room they would see a man with a ghostly arm standing on the elevator with crossed arms. Like he was awaiting to go down as well, his eyes looked tired and dead as he looked at the two.

Arthur Verg

Arthur watched the fight drag on, all warriors in this fight were skilled, although he was distracted by Orchid and sighed a bit. The hallucinations and visions returned as he let the feelings go and turned when hearing Victorique. He stared at her quietly as he approached, he watched her squeeze through the elevator and run her way down the wall into the darkness that lead deeper underground. Arthur sighed. " What a dumbass. " Arthur didn't even listen to what she said, he was too distracted by her stupidity. " She gets caught by someone. That's on her. Stupid child. " Arthur stated while standing in the center of the elevator with his arms crossed as the two warriors approached. The goblin Xix and the newcomer orc, Orchid. Arthur looked both up and down and huffed, not saying a word.

Xix looked at Orchid then at Arthur before sighing. " Just get on the elevator, orc. " Xix walked over to the elevator and stood on it, staring at Arthur who had that stone cold look on his face. He eyed the goblin a bit, but he mainly stared at Orchid, his eyes did lighten up a bit but not by much. When Orchid got on, the elevator began to move and move down underground to the warrior's respite underground. Arthur dared not to take his eyes off these two. he even unfolded their arms when they got onto the elevator just in case anything were to happen.

Making her way down the wall, Victorique would reach the bottom and see that the elevator was already moving. There had to be about ten strong looking men in loincloths, pulling chains that allowed the elevator to moved, five on each side at the bottom. Their faces were still and almost zombie like. They did as they only knew. Which was pull chains. As this saddening sight would reach Victorique, there would be a woman approach her. A Siren, she looked shocked seeing Victorique, " Wha-! H-How did a child get down here! " She asked, a bit freaked out. " Uh... Where are your parents? " She asked Victorique just as the elevator made its way down and stopped at the bottom. Xix, Orchid and Arthur stood on it. Arthur turned his head seeing Victorique and sighed of frustration. Shaking his head at her as he made his way over to her. " Good job, dumbass. Could have gotten yourself killed down here. You don't know anything of this place yet still dive headfirst into danger. " Arthur scolded her. Stickers, the Siren watched the two and looked at Arthur. " Oh, so is she your child? " Arthur looked up at the Siren then at Victorique. " Feels like it sometimes. " He growled.

Elsewhere...

Up in the arena stands, as the Blooded Guards had Dayle surrounded, they attacked Zeke and were about to attack Roy when Dayle told them to calm down. The group of them looked at each other, ignoring what Dayle had said. There was a moment of silence, besides the cheering groups, they then raised their weapons ready to attack until there was a whip of red that flew pass Dayle, hitting one of the guards. Above them on a stairwell was Lykra, the Bloodstained stood there along with a couple more Blooded Guards, a conjured whip of blood in her hand. The blood disappeared as she approached, " You fools. I told you to not attack them. I said to apprehend them and bring them to me. " Lykra was not happy, she sounded stressed and tired. " Get the fuck out of here before I rip your throats out. " Lykra told the guards that attacked Dayle and his group. The group quickly got out of there as Lykra sighed heavily. She looked at Dayle and his small group. " Follow. You infiltrated in so I might as well actually speak with you. " Lykra explained, she sounded almost defeated but very frustrated. " Let's go somewhere less crowded. " Lykra walked away out of the arena stands, the Blooded Guards with her stood behind Dayle, Zeke and Roy, making sure they follow after Lykra.

Lykra would lead the three to her office towards the bottom of the arena, her guards made sure they followed. When they reached a door, Lykra opened the walked in. " Get in here you fools. " She called as she sat down behind a desk that faced the door. She had a lot of paper work before her, Lykra took her helmet off revealing her rather pretty face. Placing the helemt on the table, she began to go through the paperwork, " Sit down and tell me what do you want. " Lykra growled, she quickly looked through each piece of paper and wrote on them before tossing them over to another table in a sloppy manner. Her office had a few weapons on a rack behind her. Ther was a few tables inside that had papers and books, there was even a painting of a Blooded Guard, like a portrait, it looked somewhat like her but the gear in the painting was basic and generic, it may have been a younger Lykra. " Come on, I don't have all day. " Lykra snapped her fingers at the three. " And sit your asses down. " She repeated, not even realizing she did.

Elvario · Jun 26, 2022

Victorique Sopheana

Mentions: Arthur

Skyhunter | Orchid

Lucius Cypher

Victorique was done with Arthur. His incompetent idiocy was one thing, his complete deflection of fault another, but his total foolishness in daring to reprimand her for his own moronic behaviour was the last straw. “Perhaps I wouldn't be forced to take such actions if you were able to communicate properly and wouldn't get distracted by the first sight of blood and gore. You had me worried that something happened to you, but now I realise how foolish that was. If all you can do is freeze up, ignore me and then fault me for your own stupidity, you're more of a liability than an asset at this rate, so by all means, go tell these folk how much you admire their bloodshed or something and let me do my job.” At this point, she was convinced that whatever dangers the Underbelly could throw at her wouldn't be any less dangerous due to Arthur being there. If anything, they might just be worse due to him attracting them or distracting her from running off. At this rate, all he was good for were his connections, as at least he'd gotten her into this place to begin with.

As angry as she was at Arthur, she was also pretty on guard with the orc being this close, but she tried her best not to show any of it. After all, she still wasn't sure if she'd be considered an appetiser, so it was best not to try to act natural and to hope the idea wouldn't even come to mind for the orc. All things considered, she hoped the green warriors, both the big one and the small one, for that matter, would mostly ignore her.

She figured that, right now, her best course of action was to calm down a bit and try to address the Siren. “If this incompetent fool was my father, I'd have been dead before I could walk.” Ah... She still wasn't entirely calmed down after all. Well, with that out of the way, she could attempt a restart. “I'm Victorique Sopheana, I'm not a child, I'm a halfling.” She figured she'd leave out her official job description at first, but then realised that this woman might have some clues. She didn't seem as dumb or bloodthirsty as most of the folk she'd encountered in the Underbelly either, so perhaps this woman was a good entry-point for her investigation.

Besides, there weren't really any excuses they could make up for wanting to check out the Champion's room, so the truth was their best bet. “I'm here to investigate what happened to the Champion and prevent another Controls War, as it seems like someone is attempting to steer the recent events into that direction by getting of the Champion. If helping out in preventing massive amounts bloodshed sounds appealing to you, I'd appreciate your cooperation.” She made sure to make her argument as persuasive as possible, by taking into account whatever information she could to make it more into an Ultimate Argument. After all, having an insider of the arena on her side might make or break this investigation.

B Grade Cooldowns (2/4)

Halfling Parkour - Fast B, Wall Bouncing F, Wall Running F, Appraisal D, Heightened Hearing F, Heightened Sight F, Acrobatics F, Perception D - Character uses their senses and movement abilities to parkour through the environment. - Grade B - 4 Post Cooldown

C Grade Cooldowns (1/3)

Halfling Parkour - Fast C, Wall Bouncing F, Wall Running F, Appraisal D, Heightened Hearing F, Heightened Sight F, Acrobatics F, Perception D - Character uses their senses and movement abilities to parkour through the environment. - Grade C - 3 Post Cooldown

D Grade Cooldowns (0/2)

Ultimate Argument – Appraisal D, Heightened Hearing F, Heightened Sight F, Insight D, Perception D, Persuasion E – Character takes in any information they can from someone and uses it when carefully picking their tone of voice and mannerisms to convey their argument in the most persuasive manner, tailored to whatever might suit the person they're trying to convince. - Grade D – 2 Post Cooldown.

Lucius Cypher · Jun 26, 2022

Tags:

Elvario

As the dust settled, Orchid looked down at her chest. Somehow, Bingus had managed to get his dagger to slide between the folds on her chest plate, though it failed to get through the gambison underneath. Casually Orchid took the dagger out and strapped it onto her belt: she may need it later. Grabbing her helmet she did a quick look over it and confirmed that the chinstrap was indeed broken. "Fuck. Fourth time already. No patch job this time, I need to take this to an armorer or something." She sighed as the crowd roared. They finally saw Bingus dead on the ground, and Orchid no worse for wear. Raising her poleaxe high into the air, she lets out a hearty roar in victory. She felt Xix grab her, directing her back to the entrance. "Right. Pay day." Orchid followed the goblin back to the entrance, though strangely enough there was another person here. He didn't look like a gladiator, and she certainly hasn't seen him around here before.

Tucking her helmet underneath her arm, she gave the stranger a nod. She also took out a cloth from one of her pockets to wipe away her blood. The cloth had a bitter scent and stung when it touched her wound, but that was because it had some medicinal herbs to help clean wounds and prevent infections. A little bit of healing goes a long way to staying alive. She walked into the elevator at Xix's insistence, and as they rode their way up Orchid put her cloth away and brought out a snack. A baked granola bar, with wild nuts and dried berries. A sweet snack that can be surprisingly filling, and great after a hard workout like fighting. She made quite a few and had a pocket full of them. As she snacked she noticed the man looking at her, so Orchid took out a snack bar and offered it to him.

When the elevator finally arrived, Orchid was surprised to see a little girl here. Not exactly the sort of establishment for a child. Though that being said, seeing the girl's rather fine outfit and the mystery man's attitude towards her, as well as his choice of words, Orchid had a feeling she wasn't a child, just a short woman. "Heh. That's kind of funny." Then the girl spoke, removing all doubt that this girl wasn't a child, but in fact a rather sassy woman on a mission. She introduced herself as Victorique Sopheana, so definitely some sort of fancy person from a fancier place than the Undercity. Orchid could guess why: probably someone topside sent down here to investigate the missing champion. Why else would she be snooping around the arena? And sure enough, that's exactly what she was here to do. "Oh sweet, someone's here to look into that." Orchid went to stand next to Sticker. "If she's looking into Auregnog, I want to help too! Won't have much of a career as a gladiator if people are too busy killing each other in the streets to watch me killing people in the arena." Orchid looked to Victorique and extended a hand to her. "Name's Orchid. Hired blade, but currently my blade's hired to fight in the arena. Speaking of which," The armored warrior looked to Stickler with a smile. One less psychotic than the one she has in the arena, and more polite and professional. "I survived! How much did I win?"

Grade F Cooldown (0/0)
Healthy Snack - Domestic Arts F, Healing F - Orchid makes a snack that can miraculously heal one's wounds. While it might not save someone's life, it could help them get through a rough day. Could heal minor aches and injuries, as well as some weak diseases. - Grade F - 0 Post Cooldown

Shatter Shard · Jun 27, 2022

Dayle Keller
"Red Star's Bastard Dog"

Strength
Precision
Intelligence
Vitality
Speed

[ D ]
[ F ]
[ E ]
[ E ]
[ E ]

E

Active Titles:
Human | Thug | Unruffled

-Ryke-
Underbelly of Ryken, Colosseum

Code by: Shatter Shard

Dayle's expression hardened when he realized these people were about to skewer them, but Lykra had arrive in the nick of moment. From what she said, it seemed that the Blooded Guard has become in disarray. Blatantly ignoring commands, the lack of discipline, Dayle could hardly believe that this was Underbelly's top dog. Thankfully, the bastards were still compliant to Lykra, but he was doubting how much she could handle by herself. Since the situation has been resolved, Dayle shrugged and followed Lykra.

Dayle and his men complied and went inside her office, but were momentarily surprised when Lykra took off her helmet. Zeke nodded his head in approval, Roy pondered as he looked at her, and Dayle continued on to take a seat. Although she was pretty, Dayle had enough sense to not say anything. He hated to admit it, but Lykra alone could floor him and his men if she wanted to. There was no way he was going to offend her by commenting about her appearance now. Thankfully, his men didn't voice out their thoughts, and only looked at Lykra with a different light now. Zeke and Roy knew better than to say unnecessary remarks. Zeke did once, then he ate a fistful of 'discipline' after that. Roy couldn't even dare to. He could talk to Dayle if there were no business going on, but otherwise his Red Star affiliation made him seriously adherent to its strict hierarchy.

Just as he sat down, Dayle raised his brow at the repeated command, before shaking his head as if he knew where she was coming from. "You're quite stressed, I see. Things have happened so suddenly after all, and there seems to be no rest for you." Dayle chuckled. "But I'll oblige, to the main point. I have info you might need." He leaned forward to Lykra and spoke in a low voice. "But for that, I also need one in return. I will ask for it now, since it will define how this whole negotiation will go." Dayle leaned back on his seat and asked Lykra with utmost seriousness. "Auregnog. What happened to him, or more specifically, what has been happening around him before all this debacle?"

There were two purposes of this question: one was to lower Lykra's suspicion of him. By asking Auregnog's recent history, he was implicitly saying that he had no idea what was happening before the champion's disappearance, and he was willing to get to the bottom of it. This also implied that the Red Star are also bothered by this entire development, and in extension, completely uninvolved. The second purpose was to find out who Auregnong is, and his influence. Since Lykra was the champion's second in command, she was his best bet when it came to information about him.

"Though I am fine with you refusing to answer, please think about it properly. The Red Star is also be affected by this, so it's also in our best interest to resolve this matter." Dayle was trying to be as considerate as negotiations go. Dayle believed that if Lykra was not like the other Blooded Guards he had met, then she would at least consider this option laid out before him. With how much her entire group is becoming, she wouldn't have enough hands to help her with the investigation. This would mean that she either has to give up on it, find out about it on her own, or seek for a third party's help. The first option is out, considering her passion for the champion. The second is also ruled out, as she has the Blooded Guard to keep in check. The third option is her only way out, but to delegate this responsibility to a stranger is something Dayle knew she wouldn't do. That's why, Dayle offered to exchange information instead. A business endeavor as a front to help Lykra find out what happened to her champion. As well as help himself and the Red Star in the process.

Mentions:

Skyhunter · Jun 29, 2022

The Bloody Defiance

" Stressed? " Lykra asked, " Stressed doesn't even begin to describe what I'm feeling. " Lykra growled deeply as she looked up from her paperwork. Yup, the Underbelly had paperwork, or at least the Blooded Guard does, unless some other bigger gangs do. " I have a huge weight on my back since Auregnog's disappearance, we can't even get into his personal chambers below the Warrior's Respite. " She explained putting her quill down, taking a deep breath to calm herself. " I don't know where he is at. " Lykra growled, she looked worried and scared in her eyes, but her face showed strength and power. She didn't want to be vulnerable, especially to rival gang members. " His room may hold answers, but he never allowed anyone to enter. Not even me. " Lykra looked down at the desk for a moment as her voice sounded sad before it returned to her rude and hardened tone and her gaze returned. " But I haven't seen him since the Gang War, he told me to go out and do clean up with most of the Guard. He cared for this world and its people more than I ever have. But I respected him. " Lykra explained, she spoke highly of Auregnog.

As Dayle spoke, Lykra sighed as she sat back in her chair, looking both Roy and Zeke. " You two, leave. I need to speak to Dayle alone. " When they finally left, Lykra stood up and stared down Dayle, " I do not like you Red Stars. But you're different from those glorified wannabes. " Lykra stated, leaning forward, placing her hands on her desk. " They are deceiving backstabbers. They don't even live down here, yet they are interested in our affairs. Especially with the Blooded Guard when I saw you four out there. I know you had nothing to do with his disappearance, you would not be able to take out Auregnog. " Lykra pushed herself off the desk and stood up straight. " If you can get into his room then I want you to tell me what you find inside. I have to keep a eye on the Guard, they are as worried if not more than me. The People's Champion is gone and now they will feel lost in the dark. " Lykra stared at the desk then back at Dayle, " I don't care what your pathetic organization wants out of this, they wouldn't be able to do what they want with us. But I'd rather them not know anything. " Lykra growled moving around the table looking at Dayle as she walked up to the gangster. Sitting against her table as she gently brought one leg over her other, moving her head to reveal her neck to Dayle, she stood up and walked closer to Dayle before she then proceeded to sit on his lap, placing a hand on his cheek, leaning in a bit. " Do you understand? " Lykra asked with a smile.

Warrior's Respite

Arthur Verg

Arthur scoffed shaking his head, " Properly communicate... " Arthur shook his head, he couldn't believe what he was hearing, he actually had to rub his hand over his face and let out a sigh. " Funny coming from a little munchkin who decided to play hide and go seek without telling me they were going to try and get the elevator down and you failed in doing that anyways. " Arthur smirked a little hearing when Victorique stated that she would have been dead if she was his child. " My child? Please, I don't think i would have created one as snotty, bratty or even ugly as you for that matter. Or something as tiny. Please refrain from over exaggerating, your midget complex is getting out of hand. " Arthur rolled his eyes at the halfling, " Now pipe down before I put you on a leash. " Arthur sighed turning his attention to Orchid who came forward to receive her money from the onlooking Sticker, a Siren who acted as a money launderer and announcer. " You want to join in? " Arthur looked her up and down with a look of untrust, but she gave a good enough reason for joining, although Arthur did want to know her a bit better but wasn't sure how to approach her. " You may scare the little one, she thinks you're going to grind her bones into seasoning and eat her eyeballs. " Arthur stated with crossed arms.

The Siren jumped seeing the large Orc, " Oh, uh... " The robed Siren pushed her hand into her pocket and grabbed something as she pulled it out. " Here you go. " Sticker said with a happy smile, when Orchid held her hand out, the Siren placed a piece of lint on her hand. Xix then laughed, " Sticker. Pay her what she's owed. " The goblin had crossed arms and a smile on her face. Sticker laughed a bit and pulled from her robe sleeves a bag of gold, " A joke of course. " Sticker had a happy innocent like smile as she handed Orchid a large bag of gold, enough to get her some new armor and weapons and still a good bed for a few nights. Xix then looked to Victorique and Arthur " So you two are here to investigate Auregnog's disappearance. Glad to hear. Although you look like you know nothing of this place. " Xix commented towards Victorique then looked to Arthur, " Guess that's why you got someone who looks like they have killed too many. " Xix commented, Arthur didn't show any expressions when Xix said that besides his cold stare.

Elvario · Jun 29, 2022

Victorique Sopheana

Mentions: Arthur

Skyhunter | Orchid

Lucius Cypher

“I did tell you I was going to do that, I was right up in your face... well, right below it, but you get the point. Thing is, you didn't even listen and kept staring at the fight instead, like we weren't standing in the arena with the Blooded Guard potentially ready to throw us out. That's what I mean when I point out your inability to communicate!” She glared back at him. “You're the one that should be leashed, perhaps then you won't get distracted as much.” She tried her best to ignore his remark towards Orchid, as that one was too truthful for comfort and Victorique didn't want to acknowledge it.

The latter was made a bit more difficult when Orchid actually extend a hand to her. That was very tough to ignore... She slowly and carefully extend one back and, in the back of her mind, prayed it wasn't a trick to catch her and pull her in to serve as appetiser. Well, in a worst case scenario, she still had one trick up her sleeve, so perhaps a simple hand-shake wouldn't be the death of her. “Nice to meet you , miss Orchid. Any help is welcome.” The latter was true, as she had very little faith in Arthur doing his job and could use a more attentive guard. Perhaps, maybe, if Orchid didn't plan to eat her, the orc could serve as protection instead? That was a very appealing prospect.

To her surprise, the goblin also took an interest in what they were here for. That might allow her to actually start doing her job. Besides, despite his fearsome and gruesomeness, Xix was at least someone she could talk to at eye-level. “You're an experienced fighter here, right, mister Xix? Can you tell us what you know about the champion, or even better, how he might have changed these past few weeks or so? Did anything seem off about him, did he break any regular schedules or patterns of his?” She also looked at the Siren, unsure of what her exact relation to the champion was. “If you know anything, miss, I'd love to hear from you as well.”

There was one conclusion that was clear already. “Auregnog doesn't sound like one to go down easily and quietly, unless someone carefully prepared for this. Such preparations take time, time during which they might've left traces that lead us back to the culprit. Ah, right, on the topic of that. Is it possible for us to investigate the champion's room? It's the likeliest place for us to find anything that might be of relevance, if we're not too late already.”

B Grade Cooldowns (3/4)

Halfling Parkour - Fast B, Wall Bouncing F, Wall Running F, Appraisal D, Heightened Hearing F, Heightened Sight F, Acrobatics F, Perception D - Character uses their senses and movement abilities to parkour through the environment. - Grade B - 4 Post Cooldown

C Grade Cooldowns (2/3)

Halfling Parkour - Fast C, Wall Bouncing F, Wall Running F, Appraisal D, Heightened Hearing F, Heightened Sight F, Acrobatics F, Perception D - Character uses their senses and movement abilities to parkour through the environment. - Grade C - 3 Post Cooldown

D Grade Cooldowns (1/2)

Ultimate Argument – Appraisal D, Heightened Hearing F, Heightened Sight F, Insight D, Perception D, Persuasion E – Character takes in any information they can from someone and uses it when carefully picking their tone of voice and mannerisms to convey their argument in the most persuasive manner, tailored to whatever might suit the person they're trying to convince. - Grade D – 2 Post Cooldown.

Shatter Shard · Jun 29, 2022

Dayle Keller
"Red Star's Bastard Dog"

Strength
Precision
Intelligence
Vitality
Speed

[ D ]
[ F ]
[ E ]
[ E ]
[ E ]

E

Active Titles:
Human | Thug | Unruffled

-Ryke-
Underbelly of Ryken, Colosseum

Code by: Shatter Shard

Dayle listened to Lykra, and obliged to order the two to get out of the office. Outside the two stood, and they were faced with the Blooded Guards guarding the office. They seemed unfriendly, so Zeke turned his head to his colleague. "So, we out drinking tonight?" Roy raised his brow at the grinning Zeke, before sighing. "Me and my boys are not paying." He replied. "No problem." Zeke hummed, already thinking about tonight's party.

Just as Dayle was having a good day as the negotiations went smoother than expected, Lykra suddenly tried to do a femme fatale's move on him. He hated manipulative bastards, and Lykra's bold move made her look very irritating to him. "I understand completely." Dayle's voice subconsciously became unfriendly. "So please, get off me." Although Dayle has grown, there were still some insults that he couldn't take. One of them was being seen as a fool that could easily be controlled, stemming from the experience of being played like a fiddle by Mr. Loren, his current superior. But as much as he wanted to throw Lykra off of him, he wasn't reckless enough to pick a fight with Auregnog's second. Dayle crossed his arms, subtly saying that he does not want anymore of Lykra's 'moves'.

Dayle took a moment to calm down his boiling rage and spoke clearly. "Since I was requested by Red Star itself, there will be some things needed to be relayed to them." He looked at Lykra. "But I can promise nothing about Auregnog will reach their ears." He leaned back to his seat. "However, I won't put it above them to put two and two together. At that point, I hope you understand." Dayle warned, thinking of his own superior.

"As for my end of the deal, the information about Auregnog's disappearance has been leaked everywhere." He spoke. Integrity was one of the few things Dayle was proud of about himself. As long as he made a deal, he was going to fulfill his end. "And the timeframe of the leak does not match up. The surface world got a hold of it earlier than we did, but the important thing was the fact that this was leaked before any of us knew that the champion's gone." Dayle pondered for a moment before speaking again. "It was almost as if this event was already predetermined."

Mentions:

Lucius Cypher · Jun 30, 2022

Tags: