| Welcome to Black Arch Fort. We hope you enjoy your visit. You're currently viewing our forum as a guest. This means you are limited to certain areas of the board and there are some features you can't use. If you join our community, you'll be able to access member-only sections, and use many member-only features such as customizing your profile, sending personal messages, and voting in polls. Registration is simple, fast, and completely free. Join our community! If you're already a member please log in to your account to access all of our features: |
- Pages:
- 1
- 2
| The Dance; Anyone and Everyone! | |
|---|---|
| Topic Started: Sep 6 2009, 12:35 AM (252 Views) | |
| Akira Kurosawa | Sep 6 2009, 12:35 AM Post #1 |
Assistant Blacksmith
  ![]](http://209.85.117.197/static/1/pip_r.png)
|
(ooc: ohhkay! I've been meaning to jump back on the train! So i figured id give both my characters a streach of their legs  everyone and anyone feel free to join!)An unlikely team stood out on the beach. It was late afternoon and the air was beginning to cool off. Akira, the assistant blacksmith and Spencer, the field surgeon hare from Salamandastron leaned side by side, struggling with a tough length of rope. They dug their footpaws into the shifting sand and stretched the rope with all the strength so that the end would loop around a final stake driven deep into the ground. "Almost there! " "Shift your bally footpaw!" "Its not. . . you've got to. . ." "Higher! Higher wot!" "rrr. . .Heave!!" "Eulaliaaaa!" The two collapsed in a heap in the sand, they were successful. Standing before them was a square boxing ring, made from four stakes in the ground, surrounded by two runs of rigging line from the shipyards, stretched tight. Akira straightened up swiftly, inspecting their handywork with a cheerful expression. Spencer remained in the sand, lying on her back and watching a small cloud scoot slowly across the sky above her. The squirrel tugged at one of the knots, walking around the perimeter of the ring. "Well that seemed to work. . . er. . . what exactly is this for?" Spencer continued to watch the cloud, addressing him from her back. "Dance ol' lad! A great military tradition! You really ought to join us tonight!" Akira let out a small chuckle "Certainly not! Imagine me, jigging around on the beach at night. . ." Spencer rolled on her side and grinned at the squirrel. "Not dancing! Fightin! Fisticuffs!" "A "dance"? Funny thing to call a brawl. . ." "Not a brawl!" The field surgeon jumped up to her feet and walked over to a makeshift table with a box and a slate on it. Explaining to Akira, who followed her curiously, belting his hammer. "Y'see. . . any bally soldier, civilian or Commandin' officah can drop their name into this box; and they're fair game. Then, a challenger can saunter over to the bally o' box o glory and pull out the name of the beast she's been wantin' to pummel all year, and into the ring they go! Excellent way to work out those frustrations with your fellows or superiors eh wot?" Akira eyed the box skeptically. "So If my names in this box, anybeast here in the fort who's been itching to clap me one on the nose will get his chance?" "Aye. . or maybe they just wanna fight for some fun! All's fair! And it's off the record! Just for tonight!" The hare tugged a keg out from under the table and propped it up muttering to herself "eh. . forgot mugs. . ." Akira grinned and leaned on the table. "Somehow I think even Silver might secretly have someone she'd like to pummel. . ." Spencer deValory Clearpetal tapped the keg with a swift stroke and winked at the squirrel. "Aye, most everyone ends up putting in their name. . . even the timid ones." "Who've you got your eyes on then?" The hare pulls our her rank pin and attaches it to a scrap of paper with her name, before tossing it into the box. She doesn't respond with words, but the evil smile on her face is enough to say that there's someone. Others would be arriving soon. |
|
Biographies Assistant Blacksmith: Akira Kurosawa Field Surgeon: Spencer deValory Clearpetal ". . . of the five elements, Earth is the greatest asset to the Warrior. Representing all that is solid; stone, metal and wood, the elements of the Earth in our hands is the most powerful compliment to our warriors fire. It makes us aware of our own physicality and sureness of action. . . " | |
 |
 
|
| SilverRose Brighteye | Sep 6 2009, 09:12 AM Post #2 |
Level Two Poster
|
SilverRose jerked on a green tunic over her white shirt. She tightened the belt holding up her breeches and removed the rose necklace that always clung so loyally to her throat. The lovely piece of jewelry was placed into a carved box on her desk where it would be kept safe until she returned that evening. She had forgone her healer's garb for something a bit more durable and comfortable. Rumors of the "dance" tonight had filtered through Black Arch, enticing many who either had a bone to pick with a fellow soldier, or who just wanted to stretch out their legs. SilverRose may have just ignored the invitation to join the other warriors, but the infirmary was quiet, Narika was off playing with Marabell, and it had been awhile since the squirrel watched a friendly fight. Having retired from actually fighting on the field, unless a healer was needed of course, she hadn't seen much action. She might not put her name in to fight, but it would be fun to watch the others. Besides, she had a sneaking suspicion that her mate would end up dropping his name in, and as the worried wife that she was, she wanted to be there in case something went wrong. "Bruises and cuts, bruises and cuts," she muttered as she slung a satchel over her shoulder; a typical healer's implement for traveling. She doubted anyone would really want to clobber a fellow fort mate to the point of broken bones or deep lacerations, but one could never be too careful. Silver threw a few more things into the bag, grabbed her cloak, and started out the door. The fresh air felt nice on her cheeks. It ran across her fur and ruffled her tail a bit, drawing a small smile from the healer. Even if she didn't fight, she could certainly enjoy the weather! SilverRose made her steady way down to the beach. A happy smile crossed her face as she recalled how she and Akira had been mated on a boat floating close to the beach back at Emerald Bay. It had been such a beautiful evening, one that she would cherish for the rest of her life. Of course, the beach was also where Akira and his sister had been kidnapped by their father, which was a prelude to the very long journey across seas. Not as fond of a memory, obviously, but it had brought Silver and Akira closer together, and it probably had been the start of their decision to put up their blades. SilverRose caught sight of Spencer first, the hare's ears making her a bit taller than Akira. The healer smirked and slid down some of the sand before stopping close to the sparring ring. She surveyed the area then chuckled to herself before glancing at the pair. "Good day to you, Spencer. Should be a fun evening, eh?" She winked then turned her gaze towards her husband, eyebrow lifted. "And why do I have the feeling that you've already dropped your name in, hm? I only have so many bandages, love," the squirrel laughed playfully and gave his cheek a small peck. Still grinning, she spread her paws to the pair. "Do you need help with anything?" |
|
~~ SilverRose Brighteye Kurosawa ~~ "The petals of a rose may be soft, but beware the thorns." ~~Marabell Ambersong~~ | |
|
|
|
| Duran Swiftpike | Sep 7 2009, 11:13 AM Post #3 |
High Commander
|
Most evenings the Swiftpike family tried to spend time together, either playing chess in their quarters, strolling the grounds, or participating in whatever entertainment had been set up at the time. This particular evening the entire family was excited to go along with many others from the fort and see this “dance” that Spencer had organized. Arivly was especially excited, if only because she was hoping to breakaway from her parents the first chance she got. The young volemaid loved her parents, but tensions were still high between her and Laurel. Duran seemed determined to stay out of the issue entirely, not saying if he desired his daughter to be trained as a healer or allow her to choose her own way. As they approached the small crowd already growing around the ring, Duran leaned over and whispered something in Laurel’s ear. Avirly looked at them suspiciously as the comment made Laurel laugh. “What?” the young vole asked, almost dreading the answer. Her parents were notorious lovebirds. “Oh, nothi—“ Duran started to say, but Laurel cut him off. “Your father and I have been frustrated with Rubena lately. She has been complaining about how Duran is not pushing the workers to start reconstruction on the inn. I do not know why she is in such a hurry! We need all paws to help with the harvest first, and then when that is in it will be too cold to begin a building project. No, the inn will have to wait until next Spring, particularly when we will need to bring up supplies from the quarry down the coast and that means sailing. But what is really bothering me is how she has refused to talk to Duran about it to his face, and has instead gone around behind his back speaking ill of him to others. I am hoping to settle the matter tonight. What was funny is that your father saw Rubena standing over there with Warrick, and she looks surprised that we are here! Looks like she was not expecting the commander and his wife to show up to such an event.” Avirly rolled her eyes at her mother’s explanation. She knew what was coming. As the three approached the box that was beginning to fill with names, Duran received several pats on the back and calls of luck in the ring. The vole merely nodded as he ushered Laurel gently through the crowd. When they at last reached the box it was Laurel, not Duran, who entered their name. The vole commander shrugged and smiled good naturedly at a few open mouthed new recruits. “The lady fights her own battles. I’m not about to get in her way.” |
|
High Commander of Black Arch Fort | |
|
|
|
| Akira Kurosawa | Sep 7 2009, 12:43 PM Post #4 |
|
Assistant Blacksmith
|
Excitement and tension was mounting quickly in the evening air. Before the others had arrived Akira and Spencer had set up torches, lit them, and also shared a couple of pints. Now the field surgeon and the squirrel stood near the table watching as creatures tossed their names into the box, each one receiving a cheer and encouragement from the surrounding crowd. Akira enjoyed how some creatures threw in their name with excitement and cheerfulness, and others with determination. After so many seasons of war, the creatures of the fort had many little tensions and arguments. One would think that more fighting was not the solution, but these creatures were warriors. For some reason, a good match of boxing always seemed to bring even the most petty feuds to an end.There were certainly going to be some interesting fights tonight. "Oh ho ho!" Spencer chuckled as Laurel threw into the box. She clapped a young squirrel hard on the back, who seemed a little terrified to be addressed by the surgeon. "Seems the commander is in the box! I wonder how many frustrated recruits will work up the nerve eh? Personally I wouldn't cross my fists with such a tactician! Boxing is a game of strategy! Or.. . er. . . Is that Laural's name in the box?" Akira caught Silver in a hug and pulled her close, giving her a peck on the nose at her remark. Seeing his wife back in warriors clothing caused the squirrels heart to skip a little. They were both still young. "For your information, I have not put in my name. Spencer has in fact asked me to referee, considering how strong and clever your husband is." With a wink, the squirrel stepped nimbly through the lines into the ring, leaning back over the side to talk to Silver again. As he did, Warrick handed him a beautiful steel bell. It was supposed to be for one of the ships. "You brought your healers kit? You're not putting your name in? -- Thanks Warrick" "Don't get any blood on it!" |
|
Biographies Assistant Blacksmith: Akira Kurosawa Field Surgeon: Spencer deValory Clearpetal ". . . of the five elements, Earth is the greatest asset to the Warrior. Representing all that is solid; stone, metal and wood, the elements of the Earth in our hands is the most powerful compliment to our warriors fire. It makes us aware of our own physicality and sureness of action. . . " | |
|
|
|
| SilverRose Brighteye | Sep 7 2009, 07:45 PM Post #5 |
|
Level Two Poster
|
SilverRose chuckled as Akira caught her in a hug and a little kiss. The crowd was starting to grow larger as more and more fort beasts gathered for the evening's events. Her eyes lit upon Duran, Laurel and Avirly as the trio approached. A slight smile tugged on the squirrel's muzzle, especially when she saw Laurel put her name into the box. Well, well! It looked like they were going to have a few interesting matches tonight! Good for her! True, Silver might have to add a few more names to her list of future patients, but she had a feeling that Laurel was going to put on a good show. As kind as she could be, SilverRose could imagine that Laurel had a tough side as well. "For your information, I have not put in my name. Spencer has in fact asked me to referee, considering how strong and clever your husband is." "Clever indeed," SilverRose laughed. She sent him a wink and watched him head up to the ring. Though she wouldn't say it, she was glad Akira hadn't put his name in. He was a powerful fighter, but she didn't like him wielding blades or fists anymore. They had a family to worry about, and even a brief skirmish could be dangerous. Oh, she was such a worry wart. Nothing was going to happen. Maybe a bruise or two. This was Black Arch! Surely everyone would play fair, especially with the commanders around! Shaking her head, amused, SilverRose wandered close to the ring as her husband leaned over to speak to her. "You brought your healers kit? You're not putting your name in? -- Thanks Warrick" "Don't get any blood on it!" "Oh, he won't," SilverRose assured Warrick. She rested her paws on her hips and gave a small shrug of her shoulders. "There's no one at the fort that I really have an issue with," the squirrel replied then chuckled. "Besides, I thought we were supposed to give our fighting days a rest, love. I'm merely here as an observer and healer in case a few beasts get out of line. Though I must say I bet Laurel would give a nice challenge." SilverRose smiled to herself and looked up at Akira. "I'm a bit surprised you're acting as referee instead of battling with the others." |
|
~~ SilverRose Brighteye Kurosawa ~~ "The petals of a rose may be soft, but beware the thorns." ~~Marabell Ambersong~~ | |
|
|
|
| Tenalia Sun | Sep 8 2009, 12:58 AM Post #6 |
|
Level One Poster
|
Tenalia had no idea what she was doing down here on the beach. Oh wait, yes she did. All day long, ever since she heard about the "dance" she was day dreaming about giving one particular shrewmaid and fellow north tower guard a good punch in the face. Oooh how Felice irked her! Somehow they were always posted together on watch, and she couldn't stand the girls endless and bragging tales of battle, boys and bravery. Tenalia had not been allowed to go off with the rest of the solders after Skarndor and his horde, as Duran and her tower commander had deemed her not ready, too young and unskilled and so on. No. . she was still just a recruit. Of course Felice used this against her every night. . . The little mousemaid stood next to Spencer, her name and rank pin clutched in her hand. Now that she was down here amid the torches and veterans, the whole idea seemed way more scary! Felice was over there, giggling about something with her friends, maybe they manged to get a pint or something. She seemed a lot more muscly now that she really looked at her. . and she was almost three years older. . . She spotted Commander Duran making his way through the crowd, was he going to fight as well?? The tiny mousemaid fidget with the pin in her paws, feeling very small and silly. What if Duran wanted to fight her? Or this huge haremaid next to her with all the scars? And then there was one of the healers standing by with her kit. Now that she thought about it, what exactly did boxing mean? Exactly how many times did you have to hit each other? Was it to the death?? She was about ready to melt away and run back up to bed wen she spotted Avirly. She was sure Duran was not going to let her fight, she looked around the crowd hopefully, maybe Telo was there as well? |
<| { Tenalia Sun } |>
| |
|
|
|
| Teltoli Riverbuck | Sep 8 2009, 10:10 AM Post #7 |
Gatekeeper
|
The aforementioned mouse did happen to be in the area. Telo smoothed down his fur as he trotted over they path that would take him down to the sands. He had heard rumors of the "dance" throughout the day. If he could win a round, yes, that would give him proper standing around here. Telo always had great dreams of becoming a true and fast warrior. Winning a round of boxing would certainly do the trick to getting him on his way. The young mouse gulped as he breasted the dune that divided the salty grassland from the seashore. There it was. The ring was set up. Torches were flickering and beasts of all sizes were milling around. It was then that his heart skipped a beat. He could just make out the outline of a female mouse. Could it be? It had to be Tenalia. She appeared to be speaking with the hare Spencer. This really was his chance. He had bumbled his way through his last adventure with her. Now it was time to show her what he was really made of. Coming through the small group of beasts he cast a smile in her direction before removing his rank pin and attaching it to a scrape of paper with his name. It was in the box in a trice. After this he smoothed down his tunic again and approached the mousemaid and the haremaid. "Evening ladies. Nice to see you again Tenalia, Spencer." He bowed slightly and then straightened with a smile hovering about his whiskers. "How have you both be-en?" His voice faltered at the end as he suddenly realized that Spencer might have dropped in her name. He could just imagine begin pummeled by the hare. He tried his best to keep his tail from trembling. He had to look grown up! He wanted so much to impress the mousemaid. ____ Teltoli sauntered down the sands not long after Telo. He had given the young mouse permission to switch his evening wall tops duties with another beast so he could be a part of the dance. Tel smiled at the thought. Ah youth. The hare remembered fondly his first time at a "dance". He had come away with a cut across his eye and many stories to share. He made his way towards the group of beasts, spotting Akira almost right away. moving quickly towards him, he clapped his old friend soundly on the black. "Well well wot! Arranged a little dance fer us Hi jolly well see! Good teh see yah matey... where yah been keepin' yerself?" He chuckled and turned to SilverRose. "Too many hours in front of the anvil fer this chappy eh? How are you SilverRose? Ready teh heal the beasts Hi floor tonight?" |
Teltoli Rifflappin Riverbuck  South Tower Commander and official Gate Keeper of Black Arch Fort Rayden Sharptalon South Tower Air Division Captain | |
|
|
|
| Akira Kurosawa | Sep 8 2009, 12:37 PM Post #8 |
|
Assistant Blacksmith
|
(ooc: note to fighters! In order to keep the thread moving along, I've decided that each actual fight should take place in only one post. So if two separate player characters are battling together, please arrange the fight outside of the thread and have one person post it! You are also free to Auto Akira in any way during the fight (if you need him to break up a lock, start the next round, or end the fight etc.).) Spencer eyed the crowed carefully, looking for one beast in particular. He hadn't shown yet, but she was certain he wouldn't miss an event like this. A tiny mousemaid stood next to her shaking like a leaf, and the surgeon chuckled, patting her on the back. This was definitely one of the timid ones. "Thinking about putting your name in the box eh lass? I'd do it if I were you! Ah'm thinkin' that shrewmaid over yonder could definitely use a clobberin' eh wot!" Spencer nodded in the direction of Tenalia's enemy, and then leaned close, voicing low into the mousemaids ear. "But they seem to have an advantage over ya! Here take this." She hands Tenalia her pint of stout. "Loosens up the muscles wot! Not so much you loose your jolly motor skills, but enough to make the blows a little less painful aye?" "Evening ladies. Nice to see you again Tenalia, Spencer." Spencer straightened up and smiled at the bold little mouse, returning the bow. "Evening young sir! Name in the box i see! Good luck!" Just then, she spotted who she had been looking for, strolling down the beach. "'Scuse me young'uns! . . . er don't let the commander see you've got that mug young mousy m'gel!" And with that she pushed her way through the crowed, leaving them alone. - "Besides, I thought we were supposed to give our fighting days a rest, love. I'm merely here as an observer and healer in case a few beasts get out of line. Though I must say I bet Laurel would give a nice challenge." Akira smiled cheekily at Silver. "I'd say that that our fighting days have rested. . and now they are rest-less. And Spencer has told me that there is no line tonight to get out of! So i suppose having a healer around will be a good thing." Just then the squirrel received a clap on the back. It was Teltoli. "Well well wot! Arranged a little dance fer us Hi jolly well see! Good teh see yah matey... where yah been keepin' yerself?" He chuckled and turned to SilverRose. "Too many hours in front of the anvil fer this chappy eh? How are you SilverRose? Ready teh heal the beasts Hi floor tonight?" Akira grinned happily at his old friend. He knew the old campaigner wouldnt have missed this for the world. "Tel! Well I think Warick has let having an assistant go to his head! Now he's decided chain mail should be part of the standard kit! And I can't take the credit for this evening, you'll have to thank deValory, she arranged the whole-" At that moment, the hairmaid they were speaking of slipped into the conversation, eying Teltoli with a fiendish grin. "So! You've decided to show your fluffy white tale down by the ring eh wot? The only beastie you'll be florin' is your skinny self If I do say so, and respectfully of course sah!" Akira grinned at Silver. Now he knew who Spencer had been looking for. Edited by Akira Kurosawa, Sep 8 2009, 12:39 PM.
|
|
Biographies Assistant Blacksmith: Akira Kurosawa Field Surgeon: Spencer deValory Clearpetal ". . . of the five elements, Earth is the greatest asset to the Warrior. Representing all that is solid; stone, metal and wood, the elements of the Earth in our hands is the most powerful compliment to our warriors fire. It makes us aware of our own physicality and sureness of action. . . " | |
|
|
|
| SilverRose Brighteye | Sep 8 2009, 06:12 PM Post #9 |
|
Level Two Poster
|
"I'd say that that our fighting days have rested. . and now they are rest-less. And Spencer has told me that there is no line tonight to get out of! So i suppose having a healer around will be a good thing." Restless, well, that was a good way to describe how they were both feeling. SilverRose didn't want to fight exactly, but she did miss it from time to time. She and Akira were still young beasts compared to her parents, and they had plenty of seasons to look forward to, provided that they didn't fall victim to blade or disease. They had stayed at Redwall for a few seasons to give Narika a peaceful life, but it hadn't settled well in the pit of SilverRose's stomach. She needed more than daily abbey life to make her enjoy getting up in the morning. She missed Flashpaw and Rosefern, but knowing they were safe was enough to keep her content. They liked Redwall life. She didn’t. SilverRose's gaze went to the boxing ring and she gave another slight shake of her head. No, no, healing was her calling. Maybe some other time she would join in. For now, she would just act as the healer. "Well, I hope I'm not too urgently needed. The infirmary is finally quiet...I don't need that much excitement," SilverRose chuckled. She glanced at her mate then arched an eyebrow. "And if you're growing so restless, maybe you and I should have a spar sometime soon." She grinned. "We can see how rusty we both are and-" "Well well wot! Arranged a little dance fer us Hi jolly well see!" SilverRose jumped slightly as Teltoli appeared and clapped her mate on the back. The squirrel shook her head mirthfully then took a step back so she could lean lightly against the ring next to Akira. "Good teh see yah matey... where yah been keepin' yerself? Too many hours in front of the anvil fer this chappy eh? How are you SilverRose? Ready teh heal the beasts Hi floor tonight?" "Hehe, good to see you as well, Teltoli. Hm, I'm should have enough infirmary beds left for your victims. You'd best be glad Narika's not here. I bet she'd like to have a go with her 'unkie Telly'." In truth, Narika wouldn't stop going on and on about the hare. It was cute, but SilverRose was a bit surprised that her daughter had grown so attached to the old warrior so quickly. Then again, Teltoli was a brilliant and funny hare so what was not to like about him? SilverRose glanced at Akira when he spoke then fought back a snicker when Spencer appeared beside Teltoli. So, this was Spencer's opponent. What great fun! She always enjoyed watching Salamandastron hares box. She knew well enough to stay away from their fisted paws, but she liked watching from a distance. The squirrel swished her tail and folded her arms loosely across her chest. "This could get interesting," she murmured to Akira then called to Teltoli and Spencer. “Try not to break each other, or the rest of the fort, too much. I only brought one bag.” |
|
~~ SilverRose Brighteye Kurosawa ~~ "The petals of a rose may be soft, but beware the thorns." ~~Marabell Ambersong~~ | |
|
|
|
| Jelal Waveskimmer | Sep 9 2009, 11:19 AM Post #10 |
|
Level Two Poster
|
Jelal was never averse to a scuffle every now and then. It let him know that he was still in shape when he beat up another beast of considerable stature! As long as the fight was good natured, he could take it. And hearing that there was going to be a "dance" out on the shore was just too good an opportunity to pass up for him to show off and one-up any other creature that thought they could beat him in a straight up fight! Otters were, after all, very physical and active creatures, and there was nothing else that exemplified their rough-and-tumble nature than a good old punching match. Or boxing match, if one wanted to be more civilized. Jelal often preferred wrestling, however. He strode right up through the gathering crowd, nodding at all the others and smiling when he was greeted. So many faces, some he knew, some he didn't, and all just waiting to get a nice bruise over the eye! Upon spotting the Swiftpikes, he raised his paw and waved wildly, trying to catch the attention of Avirly. Right then and there the thought of his best friend whooping and yelling ringside made him flush with pride and decide he'd win the day just to see how loudly she'd cheer. Unless of course she planned on entering the ring with him, which would make him equal parts amused and horribly guilty... Pushing past the Brightrose family and Teltoli, he saluted and smiled at his Tower Commander. "Beg pardon for speakin' freely, Commander sir, but I'd not count the shoal for the splashes. This otter's ready ta' give as much as he'll get." He jotted down his name, and slid it into the challenge box. "Anybeast 'as a bone ta' pick with me, figure this is the best way ta' find out," he muttered, mostly to himself as he rubbed his paws together eagerly. He had seen Tenalia the timid mousemaid and even Laurel herself put their name in... he didn't know if whoever fought the Commander's wife would have it easy, or have the worst day of their lives! Hopefully, there'd be stiff competition. Bruises and bumps told stories better than words, sometimes. |
|
| |
|
|
|
| Go to Next Page | |
| « Previous Topic · The Sea and Shore · Next Topic » |
- Pages:
- 1
- 2
6:11 AM Nov 23
