Event Log: June, What Lies Beneath

[faileas]

Event Log: June, What Lies Beneath

Down, Down, Down The group leaves on the morning of the 16th, a band consisting of Mirrorbound, Theodore and Sowilo from the Coven, and one of the two returned Wilders to lead the way. The latter three will only be present for the first leg of the journey: from the North Gate to the Northern Outpost by teleporter, then a few hours' hike to the site. A tunnel yawns open, fallen rocks built up around it in mounds. Everyone is offered enchanted lanterns to light the way, and their guide takes them perhaps a mile down before he and the pair from the Coven must part ways with the Mirrorbound. The poorly-lit tunnel leads steadily downward. The way is marked by their gracious hosts to be, with arrows drawn in softly-glowing algae painting the walls so there is no mistaking which way to go; a good thing, because the deeper the party goes, the more tunnels branch off of the largest one, twisting and turning into the dark. It takes some hours to reach a familiar cavern lit with algae and glowing crystals, a herd of the velvet wormipedes idly milling about the small lake and stream that led into town in the dream. Much nicer long boats are set up and waiting to take them deeper, along with respectfully quiet Monster guards to steer them. They take a slightly different route from the dream, but before long, they reach the curtain of grayish green moss that dangles down into the water, stretched across the wide tunnel exit like a membrane. It parts on its own as the boats pass, though beware if you are infected by the Cwyld - it will not allow passage, only reach out long, tough tendrils to try and envelop you, the touch of it burning acid-bright where it is harmless for those uninfected. Past the curtain of strange moss, the cavern city opens up before them, vast and spacious, dimly lit with more algae, crystals, and softly glowing orbs of magic. It's like being plunged into an eternal twilight, somehow soft, cast in gentle colors. The boats bypass the markets this time, drifting farther down a branching stream into the city proper, to dock next to stone platforms. The winding streets and flowing canals branch out all around them with no rhyme or reason, the city sprung up around the natural layout of the caverns rather than the other way around. Buildings are carved out of tall stone spires, the windows and doors covered in fluttering silk, many of which are pulled away so that fascinated locals can peer out at the scene unfolding. The Matriarch herself comes to greet the group, ringed at the back by spear-carrying guards, all Monsters. A tall, long-limbed Arachne woman bearing battle scars and stark white hair, she looks perhaps in her 30s, and speaks with a booming, commanding voice, amplified by a charm. As she speaks, ten Wilders are released from silk rope bonds and nudged to join the Mirrorbound; they're a little roughed up, perhaps, and shaken, but none are seriously injured. A few Monsters also make the rounds, placing copper tokens in the hands of ten individuals. "Welcome, travelers! This meeting was foretold and so it has come to pass. During your stay you will be treated as our honored guests. You may come and go as you please, but we ask that you use the same tunnel you entered through; we have not yet re-secured the other entrances from Cwyld nor the tribes. I would hate for danger to befall you while you are under my care." Her smile is wide, her eight eyes bright, and her teeth are very sharp. "We have prepared temporary residences for your use. I hope you will stay for the celebrations. I look forward to meeting with some of you very soon." Notably, she does not mention the surface where from the Mirrorbound came, and those around her do not ask.

I. The City The Mirrorbound receive mixed reactions from the Underground. Some are fascinated by these visitors personally invited by the Matriarch and allowed past the markets; others are wary and suspicious, believing them to be wolves in sheep's clothing. In the city proper, most passing Monsters are armed, but this doesn't seem to be anything new. Still, step cautiously - plenty do not take well to even unknowing offense and will pick a fight, or may see these guests as easy, weak targets to pickpocket or mug in the dark corners of the twisting streets. The guards only step in if things take a turn for the worse or if the fight is very obviously imbalanced - they step in more for Witches being attacked than Monsters, because they feel Witches require protection more. Still, not all are so unscrupulous: more citizens are delighted to talk, even if they still seem skeptical about a whole world up above. Mirrorbound, as guests of the Matriarch, are given nearly free run of the city, allowed to explore such locations as the marketplace, the library, the shops, the schools (the Arena for Monsters and the Academy for Witches), and the tunnels and caverns outside the protective moss barriers. The only places they (and most locals) are expressly barred from are the Matriarch's audience hall, the upper level of the library, and the guards' barracks. a. The Marketplace The marketplace is much larger than previously thought - it rings the entire city, and stalls spill onto the streets of the inner city as well in a lazy sprawl. There are some shops with actual buildings, but they're fewer and more expensive: alchemy and apothecary shops, a couple of restaurants, a weapons shop or two, nice clothing shops. Most, though, are independent merchants who set up and take down their stalls every day and night. Any number of Underground-sourced foods, clothing, weapons, trinkets, and more can be found at the stalls; they barter, or exchange chips of precious metals and gems, but they'll take cune coins with fascination. The marketplaces are the liveliest areas of the city with Monsters and Witches alike, from all walks of life, mingling and sharing gossip and idle talk. Those who lost items to the burrowing hyenas at the Northern Outpost some months ago should keep an eye out: the hyenas are fairly common down here, serving the roles of pets or working dogs for Underground citizens, and a few merchants deal in more interesting goods. The missing items can be found scattered across some stalls, and the merchants will gleefully tell perusers that these things come from the surface, aren't they fascinating? Don't you want to buy? Luckily, it shouldn't be too hard to get your things back. They'll take all manner of interesting trinkets in trade. b. Library The library is bound to be a popular stop. Monsters get some strange looks if they enter the spire just off the courtyard from the Academy, but they aren't barred from entry; most just feel that reading is for Witches. The building is only two levels - one closed off at the top, guards keeping everyone out, and the rest is just one very tall floor ringed with a spiral of platforms and stairs to access the honeycomb-shaped shelves built into the walls. All their books are written on scrolls of silk, and the librarians bark at patrons to be delicate with them, some are very old. If one has endless time, the scrolls can offer a look at life Underground: historical accounts of past Matriarchs, brave warriors and battles against nomadic tribes or hideous beasts, their history as they know it, scrolls on offensive and defensive magic for Witches, fighting techniques for Monsters, information on their unique flora and creatures that can be found outside the city, and even plenty of fiction - sword and sorcery novels all set in the tunnels and the city. It's just a bit difficult to find what, specifically, you're looking for, because if there's any kind of organization, it only makes sense to the deep-dwelling denizens. Maybe make it a team effort! You'll also need some simple translation spells, because their system of writing is quite different to the common system in Aefenglom; even then, it may not be accurate on older scrolls. c. The Guest Villa Those who choose to spend several days in the Underground are given modest accommodations in a tall stone building. These guest chambers boast gentle lighting, wide beds, backless sofas, potted decorative fungi, and stone furniture. It's... cozy, with humble individual rooms and larger common rooms for gathering. The algae grows in delicate patterns across the walls, pulsing in soft colors. They've gone out of their way to provide what comfort they can, but there aren't enough rooms for everyone to have their own - everyone will need to share with one or two others, so choose someone you can get along with.

II. The Tunnels Mirrorbound are not restricted only to the city. There are many entrances to the cavern where it resides, the openings all covered with sheets of that same gray-green moss; some wider tunnels obviously see more use than other, narrower ones, and the footpath of many Underground denizens is easy enough to trace, the stone worn smooth. The path to the velvet wormipede cavern is one of them; they're raised as livestock, all at once food, transportation, and producers of silk and hide for clothing. This is much the same as the dream. Another well-worn tunnel leads upward to an agricultural center, though, and still more lead out into the wild. They're warned, but not hindered, before they leave for anywhere other than the farms or the livestock cavern; dangers abound in the Underground. Those who do much wandering may notice something going on as well; the guards stationed at each tunnel mouth can often be found talking to each other in low voices about an unknown red algae that seems to be growing on the protective moss. It can be found primarily around the lesser-used tunnels so far, starkly bright against the dull green, and this seems to be a point of concern... a. A Botanist's Dream It's a short walk down a wide, inviting tunnel to reach the place where the city grows fungi and underground plants for food and medicine. Large rats and hyenas both are present to keep opportunist creatures and insects from demolishing the carefully-cultivated beds of rock and soil, and small blind fish swim about in the large pool of shallow water, in which grows something like seaweed. One of their primary sources of food, besides bug and rat, are mushrooms of many sorts - all the types that grow in the farms are edible, though some may be an... acquired taste. The Fauns and Witches who tend the beds are happy to offer samples of anything that can be eaten raw; they're most enthusiastic about a type of spherical mushroom whose cap opens up to reveal what tastes and feels like savory cotton candy, and a type of flat fungi that tastes sweet and fizzy and offers a heightened good mood for an hour after. b. The Wild Underground The lesser used tunnels are a different story. A mile out from the city, Cwyld runs in thick black veins through the stone walls, infecting the sparse plants and many creatures that live out there. Careful not to touch. Infected and uninfected creatures both are highly dangerous to explorers, including stone-burrowing moles with wicked teeth and claws that can cut through metal like butter, vicious white wasps that carry lethal venom, and berserker vampire bats that survive on the blood of other animals and people alike. Some infected fungi give off blindingly-bright flashes when disturbed, while others will cause rashes and blisters on contact. Explorers are warned not to touch anything if they can help it. As well, the nomad tribes roam the less-civilized tunnels and caverns. These are small bands of usually Monsters of different types in mixed groups, though some can be found dragging humans along with them. Nearly all of them are some degree of feral, and plenty bear Cwyld infections in different stages of seriousness. They don't stop to ask questions before they'll attack anyone, including each other, in hopes of robbing them blind and leaving them for dead. As vicious and quick as they are, perhaps it's no wonder they value strength in the city?

III. Graduation Day (21st - 23rd) The Underground does not have 'Litha' as Aefenglomites know it, but come the 21st, they do have a major celebration. They simply call it the New Year, or Graduation Day, depending on what festivities are asked about, because the three days serve as both. At this time of year, with more magic in the air, the algae and crystals glow much brighter, cycling naturally through different colors that cast beautiful rainbows across the imposing stone structures. This display is how they mark the start of a new year, and it coincides with the graduation of young Monsters from the Arena and Witches from the Academy. The New Year is a time to celebrate Bonding, partying, and showing off one's skills in the hopes of attracting a new Bondmate or romantic partner. Tensions can also rise high as rivalries are settled, and small brawls in the streets are common; the guards don't interfere, again, unless things get too dangerous. They're content to let citizens work out their own issues, but unfortunately, this means Mirrorbound may get dragged in on occasion! Small fights are also a tried and true tradition to show off one's abilities around this time of year. It serves multiple purposes: attracting a Bondmate, establishing a place in the unspoken hierarchy of the city, and working out problems with others. Monsters are more likely to start brawls than Witches, though it isn't wholly uncommon to bear witness to two rival Witches throwing spells at each other in an alleyway over their grievances. They're more likely to be stopped, as magic can be quite destructive. a. A Matching Pair The un-Bonded should take precautions during the New Year celebrations. These fascinating newcomers are bound to draw the eye of curious locals, and they may put on a violent or flashy show trying to draw your attention in return! The most common way to show that you're already taken during the celebrations is with face-painting: several stands set up around the marketplace with cosmetics and brushes, and two (or three, or more) people painting matching designs on their faces and bodies signify them as a set - either Bonded or intending to Bond. That doesn't mean there won't still be competition for your heart, but it will lessen significantly, especially if you're a Monster-Witch pair already. b. Exhibitions Primarily intended for the graduating classes of Monsters and Witches, the exhibitions are an official stage set for their coming-of-age; this year, however, the Matriarch has decreed that Mirrorbound may participate as well, in the interests of getting to know one another! They're interested to see what these strange travelers can do, especially against some of their own. Mirrorbound are encouraged by excitable locals if they seem reticent, but of course, no one is forced. (Just don't be surprised if you're called a coward for refusing!) At the Arena, a massive sunken ring with stone benches for spectators ringing the whole of it, young Monsters learn combat skills, with and without weapons, and how to harness their unique physiologies in the dangerous world of the Underground. Their yearly exhibition fights take place all through the three days of the New Year, and young Monsters battle each other til first blood to the cheers and jeers of citizens (and more importantly, Witches) come to watch. The longer the battle, the more impressive it is - and Monster Mirrorbound will have no shortage of eager opponents wanting to test their skills against the unknown. Generally, the fights result in bruises, small cuts, and little else, but rivals for the same Witch might take it farther on purpose before they're wrenched away from each other by the teachers. Meanwhile, at the Academy, the tallest stone spire building in the city, young Witches learn magic from a young age. It isn't exactly the same as magic taught at the Coven, but many concepts are similar - barriers, evocation, enchantments meant for weapons or shields, healing, most of the magic they're taught at this younger age is for combat, protection or practical purposes. They only learn more frivolous magics after graduation. Much like their Monster counterparts, they give solo or duet shows of their flashier and more impressive magical skills in the courtyard, with many citizens coming to watch and take stock of the new generation. Mirrorbound Witches may find themselves being cajoled into putting on a show of their own by curious locals wanting to know what kinds of magic are taught elsewhere.

IV. Aefenglom - Litha (21st - 23rd) Meanwhile, for those who have chosen to stay above-ground or those who have left early, Litha comes once more to Aefenglom, bringing with it beautiful pink and purple skies, a far departure from last year's red tint. It has the city in a much cheerier mood for the celebrations. While they know that several Mirrorbound left for a while, they don't seem too aware of the actual mission, and have very little to say on the matter - they'd rather have a nice Litha, after last year's bad omens! Many of the activities from last year return, better than before, including the brothels opening up their doors (showing off all the wonderful new styles in lingerie!), collecting flowers to put under one's pillow in order to dream of future partners, and wandering the hedge mazes that have been magically constructed in certain parts of the city. Seeing off ships happens regularly as well, citizens setting floating candles into the harbor and river to wish them luck. a. Love Boats A new attraction for Litha is being rolled out this year right on the River Temese! Near the gate, an enterprising Faun has set up a few small boats, each just big enough for two and shielded with fine gauzy curtains for privacy. Couples are invited to buy a ride down the river together, assured it will certainly set the mood. Those who have no partners are offered (or cajoled) to be randomly paired with someone, because perhaps it's fate! The boats drift lazily down the river and stop on their own next to a small dock right before they reach the Harbor. Unless you're willing to swim, hopefully you like your boat partner, because you're stuck with them the whole ride. b. Predictive Pools One bathhouse in the Entertainment District has laid an enchantment on one of their semi-public baths for Litha. When two people stand in the water together, bare, it will begin to glow and take on one of a handful of colors that they say will predict the pair's compatibility level! Sexually, romantically? Well, why not both? The only thing is, they've lost the instructions, and cannot seem to remember what color means "most compatible" and what color means "not compatible at all"... As a reminder, all sexual content should be clearly marked in comment headers, or else moved to a comm-locked log or personal inbox! Be good to each other.

Welcome to June's Event Log, What Lies Beneath! The Underground will be open until mid-July at minimum, and possibly longer. Characters can come and go if they're willing to make the trip multiple times. As always, please direct your questions here! The NPC threads will take place here. Aaand, the Action Tracker is right here! Make sure to let us know what your characters have been up to, good and bad, by July 7th, as this will help determine how Mirrorbound-Underground relations might proceed in the future!

Comments

[towards_okeanos]

You could have.

[One look is enough for Iskandar to assess both men. The Arachne could prove some challenge, Iskandar already has seen their ilk fight here. They are quick and vicious.
The other man however...]

I am surprised though, this man has just insulted you. Are you not going to react?

[turmoiling]

What can I do? [He shrugs with apparent good grace, a small laugh.] He was hoping for a good fight, but I'm afraid my own talents lie elsewhere. Perhaps in time they'll understand that not all Monsters from above are such skilled warriors.

[But he can remember the Arachne's face. A pleasant introduction between Mirrorbound and the citizens of this city is hardly a good time for someone to turn up stabbed in the back. That's fine. He's been called worse, and he can wait.

One look is about all it takes for Iskandar too, to be honest.]

And that clearly some Witches are up to the task. Have you had a chance to test your own strength at all?

[towards_okeanos]

Commendable restraint. [Iskandar nods. A lot more of it than he would have himself should anyone dared to call him a coward.] But you are right, we are guests here. A little misunderstanding is not worth causing a diplomatic incident over.

[Now that he has heard the man speak, Iskandar is sure he must have been a courtier back at homeland. Just the right amount of edge in those carefully crafted sentences.]

Well, it too is a reason for our visit. To get to know each other better. It would be a folly to expect that would be no difference in customs.

[He shakes his head with a smile.]

No, I have been very politely declined every time. No one is exactly barring me from fighting. There just isn't anyone willing to see how they would fare against me.

[Iskandar got the impression it is not because they feel intimidated. Even if they should.]

[turmoiling]

I have no doubt many of the monsters would struggle to hold their own. If you really would like to try, would you permit me to speak on your behalf the next time I'm approached? I'm sure something can be worked out.

[Jin Guangyao smiles helpfully. Even propped up on his tail to be 'taller' than his original height, he's still well aware that his smaller, softer, appearance means even in the case of a good-natured fight people think he's easy pickings.

There might also be some gossipy twittering from seats behind them along the lines of 'just look at how large that witch is, you'd think he was protecting his monster instead!']

[towards_okeanos]

Some of them look quite formidable, and their fighting style is very unique.

[That's exactly why he wants to test them in combat. He's far too interested to just sit here and watch.]

Ha! By all means, do! If you'd really be able to secure me an opponent, I'd be most impressed. But before that it might be good to know who you are representing, I am Iskandar.

[Iskandar never forgets anyone he met but he does not recognize this particular Monster. Still, Aefenglom is a vast city. Bigger than any he visited, save maybe for Babylon. It is an impossibility to know all Mirrorbounds that live there.]

[turmoiling]

[Jin Guangyao has been puffing himself up a little down here in the Underground, but faced with yet another Mirrorbound presenting him with only a single name, he's left in the awkward position of presenting several options.]

Former Jin Sect Leader, Lianfang-zun. Although there is hardly any need for formality in another world, is there? So simply 'Jin Guangyao' is fine as well.

I suppose even between Mirrorbound there are a variety of customs too, even on something as simple as names and titles.

[towards_okeanos]

[A Sect Leader? Oho! So no simple courtier! There is some rank there! Iskandar nods in acknowledgement.]

It does seem superfluous to list one's titles to people who most likely never heard of your country, or even world. I have taken to this custom maybe a bit too quickly. So allow me to correct myself.

I am Alexander, son of Philip, king of Macedon. You may sometimes hear me being referred to as King of Conquerors as that is also my title. [And not the only one. He could on for a good minute or a few if he were to list them all.] But Iskandar is more than fine. [He actually prefers Iskandar.]

It is a pleasure to meet you, Jin Guangyao.

[turmoiling]

Ah, I think I messaged you briefly through the 'watch' regarding this very excursion underground! It's wonderful to meet you in person as well. Text is so impersonal, don't you think?

Ah, here comes one now, please just play along. [A Chimera this time, looks ready to offer a challenge, but Jin Guangyao holds up his hand to forestall any words from the other Monster.]

No, no, before you say anything, I'm afraid I can't accept. [Snakes can't blink, but he shoots Iskandar a small look before continuing a little bit faux-sadly. It wouldn't do to act *too* well in front of his fellow Mirrorbound.] I would love to, but you see, things are somewhat different where we're from. My Witch has been training so very hard and --ah, how long has it been, that you've honed your skills in combat now? [He asks, turning back to ask Iskandar's input]

[towards_okeanos]

[Iskandar never forgets a face he saw in person. The text messages or even videos on the network accessible through their watches still elude him. Even if he used them himself.]

Yes, yes it is.

[But before he gets to comment further another monster, a chimera, approaches them and Jin Guangyao spins his tale. Iskandar pales in anger. My Witch?! You little conniving weasel... That is not something he agreed to. Still, he doesn't get to say anything as Jin Guangyao shoots him a question. And Iskandar doesn't want an argument right in front of the native Monster.]

Thirty years.

[Iskandar barks his response but the reaction he gets is ... less surprising after everything that happened to him earlier this day.]

No way! [The chimera's eyes go wide in shock.] Sure he looks buff but why would you let him?! Fighting 's no job for a Witch. What if he gets hurt?!

[Iskandar winces. This is surreal. The chimera doesn't try to offend either of them. All that is said with genuine worry. As infuriating as it is, they really mean well.]

[turmoiling]

[Perhaps he went a little far with the 'my witch' part, judging by Iskandar's expression. Jin Guangyao is quite certain his own bonded, Lan Xichen, wouldn't appreciate that particular deception either, but it's really just a little thing. What are the chances any of these people here will ever remember, he figures.]

Everyone here is experienced as well, are they not? Nobody will get seriously hurt. And Iskandar here has been looking forward to testing out his skills so terribly much. Besides, and I don't mean to be rude but... if you can't beat a witch, is there really much point in us having a duel?

{It's not said in a mean-spirited way exactly, but with the mildest sympathetic condescension. He does glance back at Iskandar once more.]

Why don't you two go on? And if you lose, I'll do this gentleman the honor of a match.

[So please be actually good and win, otherwise Jin Guangyao is probably going to end up embarrassed by at least a moderate amount. He's not the worst fighter in the world, but he isn't exceptionally skilled either, and using dirty tricks to win aren't going to play here.]

[towards_okeanos]

[No chance at all. No way anyone could remember huge, redhead Witch itching for a fight and a mild-mannered snake looking like literal nobility. No, they don't stand out at all. Totally forgettable.]

Well, if you two are really sure of that...

[The chimera shifts in his place, visibly uncomfortable with a prospect of roughing up a Witch. That's not why he came here. But when Jin Guangyao puts it like that... he cannot really back off now, can he? At least few people heard the commotion and curious eyes and ears are perking all around. Surely, those Mirrorbound people are weird.

Iskandar just grins, he's not going to give up on his chance now.]

[turmoiling]

Oh, absolutely. Just look at how excited he is. It will be fine, so please don't worry too much and give it your best.

[Jin Guangyao smiles pleasantly. Hopefully it will save him having to rebuff future attempts to involve him in a match, too. Win-win... for the two Mirrorbound, at least.]

Good luck out there.

[He'll just stay back here in the stands and watch, thank you. And has it well in mind to possibly beat a hasty stage left if Iskandar was to lose.]

hover for translation ;)

[towards_okeanos]

[Iskandar is no stranger to having an audience but this is different. There are not so many people watching. It's late, he's been here whole day trying to get his chance so any people present are mainly stragglers with no pressing matters and too much time on their hands. All the favourites fought earlier and people who came to watch specifically them got what they wanted and went home. And yet it is the nature of the crowds that wherever people gather in large groups, there news travel faster than fire devouring dry grass.

The sparks igniting that fire this time are two words: Witch and Mirrorbound. So when Iskandar and the chimera guy step inside the ring all eyes are on this intriguing curiosity. A Witch that fights.
The chimera looks less content than Iskandar having all this attention directed at them. He's young, shorter than Iskandar and of leaner build but he's a Monster, right? He has teeth and claws and trained all his life. Surely he can't lose to Witch in an honest fight?]

No magic remember?

[Iskandar laughs. He didn't come here for tricks.]

Do not insult me, boy. What are your weapons of choice?

[Chimera snarls showing a row of sharp teeth, unsheaths his claws, a pair of wings unfolds behind him.]

I need no weapons to end you.

[Iskandar nods. He's not even touching his sword.]

Very well. Let it be so. No weapons.

[Iskandar regrets he doesn't have incense or at least wine for an offering. It feels wrong to start a fight without offering a sacrifice for the gods first. If anything reminds him this is truly another world it's details like this.]

Πατὴρ, I offer this fight to you.

[Not that he expects Zeus to hear him here. At least he tried... He looks back at his opponent.]

Shall we begin?

[The chimera lounges.]

[turmoiling]

[If Jin Guangyo didn't excel at maintaining a perfectly pleasant exterior, he'd probably be facepalming right now. There's something about a particular breed of musclebound fight-loving man that means they have a particularly idiotic idea of fairness.

To be honest, it still seems like Iskandar might have a chance on sheer size alone, but given it's only until first blood and the chimera has claws... Jin Guangyao's coils shift as he glances back at the rest of the arena, considering his chances at leaving a little early. They don't seem so good, with the foreign Mirrorbound standing out so well.

With few options, he settles to watch the fight; if nothing else, perhaps he'll learn a thing or two about one of his fellow Mirrorbound's fighting style.]

[towards_okeanos]

[It was telling the chimera was used to a certain fighting style. Even more used to fighting with other Monsters. So he stumbles confused when Iskandar doesn't meet his strike with defence and does not immediately follow with an offence. He just gets out of his way and asks a question.]

You're part hawk, right?

[The chimera hisses.]

Why does that matter if I do?

[Iskandar has been hunting with hawks long enough to recognize certain traits when he sees them.]

You closed your eyes when you were attacking. Hawks do that. You shouldn't. One day you'd be facing someone faster than me and if you keep doing it, you'll die.

Why do you care?

Because stupidity is a bad reason to die. Never take your eyes off an opponent.

[Which he then does by looking at the audience, wondering if Jin Guangyo is still there. To his utmost surprise, he is, sitting where Iskandar has left him and watching the fight.

Well, well, well, so you're not a coward after all?

Iskandar still doubts Jin Guangyo would truly keep his word and fight, shall he lose... but then he doesn't intend to lose.

If the chimera thought Iskandar is not paying attention, he was wrong. He shifts his position slightly and the strike that was clearly directed at his exposed arm scrapes of his leather gauntlet. Iskandar catches the clawed hand above the wrist and yanks down sending the chimera to the ground.]

Humans don't have sharp teeth nor claws so they had to perfect the art of combat.

[Also weapons but they are no talking about weapons now. The next strike is one that Iskandar has to actually dodge.]

See? You can do better. You just need to stop being lazy.

[Is he trying to insult the chimera? Of course, he does.]

[turmoiling]

[Jin Guangyao is quite familiar with attacking someone with words, to find an opening. But he's less sure of how such things go here, especially in such an unusual fight. He surveys the crowd for a sense of where they draw the line between posturing and intent to deceive -- but the murmurings only seem to be for the oddness of Witch against Monster, and little else, easing his worries a fraction.

He meets Iskandar's gaze with analytical curiosity for that moment when he looks into the stands. As the fight goes on, it's clear that creating an opening isn't necessary so much as it is that he's simply putting on a good show.]

[towards_okeanos]

[Iskandar just nods with a smile to Jin Guangyao when their eyes meet. He might have balked at the deceit but he can't argue with the results. He got his fight just like promised. And King of Conquerors can be quite forgiving with people who get him results.

While he is finally having a good time here, Iskandar knows how to read the audience. He needs to start planning how to end this fight. Soon the novelty will wear off and people will be less happy with the fact that a stranger has won in their sacred tradition. He readies himself for a final blow. It's untill the first blood after all.

Time to draw some blood.]