Fight or Flight - NaNoWriMo2019 11/10

The feast went on, food was had, many drinks were poured, and the encounter with Krek was forgotten. Annice found herself smiling so much that her face began to stain and ache, and she never wanted it to end. To be surrounded by  such personalities was fascinating, each fighter had a story to tell and she was a rapt and attentive audience.

“Bloodclaw had me cornered, their fangs dripping with a foul and poisonous ichor. “Elenra stated, one foot up on the table, the other on their chair. The gathered audience, save Annice, had heard this story what must have been a dozen times over, but they all listened, never tired of a good story. “I was very nearly out of spells and my weapon had already been snapped in half by the very jaws that saught to do the same to me. A stub of a blade at best, but a stub was better than nothing.” They gestured wildly into the air with one arm, mimicking a sword thrust. “So taking that stub I readied myself and when the foul wyrm lurched forward I leapt into the ait and plunged my broken blade into it’s eye!” The gasp of Annice was heard and a few people chuckled in amusement, but Elenra continued on. “Its poisoned blood splashed over my hands and face, the pain was immense. But the pain was the least of my worries. The foul beasts poison numbed my hands and digits, and I had a spell to cast before the creature turned.” Her hands now hung limp on at their wrist in a display of uselessness, before clenching into fists. “I forced my finger to work together o complete the somatic gestures, and as the Bloodclaw turned to me I called out the Power Word and launched a bolt of lightning into the hilt of my weapon, the blade still dug into the bastards eye! Its body quaked and spasmed. And Bloodclaw the Wyvern was no more.” Elenra smiled as the gathered applauded, hollars, and banged their goblets against the table.

Once most of the food was eaten the tables were largely abandoned, for eating at least. Half a dozen matches of arm wrestling broke out, one game of Black Dragon Red Dragon, and as a resting place for feet and elbows as a few entered into casual conversation. The main attraction now was the dance floor and performers. Drunk gladiators hooted at each other as they spun around the dance floor or hooted at the performers, who were masters if only because they were able to preform their craft with such a drunken rowdy crowd. Annice was still at the tables, having a conversation with Kuran about the Cleansing War when a hand came into view, looking up she found Wilhelm attached to that hand.

“You ain’t truly experienced a Feast of champions if you haven’t danced. May I?” He had one arm tucked behind his back, the other still extended, palm open.

“Oh I don’t know, no one needs to see that. “ She started waving her hand, but Kuran bumped her with an elbow.

“Go, sister, enjoy yourself. We will not laugh at you, too loudly at least.” Kuran smiled. “I will give you more stories of glory later, the night is young!”

Annice shrugged and took Wilhelm’s hand, being lead to the dance floor. She stood, awkwardly, before him giggling at herself. He smiled and took her other hand, leading her into the dance. The song was lively, with fast violins and lively flutes. Wilhelm and Annice spun around the floor, rhythmically matched and laughing to themselves as they did. The dance was fast, bouncing, and the two crashed into each other, grasping at each others torso to stay on their feet more than one, and most importantly it was fun. As the music came to a close the two panted, and held each other’s shoulders to keep from collapsing, both tittering with giggles and laughter like children. They stumbled slightly as they walked from the dance floor and returned to their seats, Kuran softly clapping for them.

“Gods damn Annice you sure can dance.” Wilhelm said, reaching for a goblet and pitcher to pour another drink.

“I don’t know about that, I felt like I was mostly flailing about.” She responded, fanning herself and tugging at the material of her robes, now clinging to her form.

“Very entertaining Wilhelm, when do I get a dance?” Kuran asked, leaning over to the two. Wilhelm chuckled.

“Only if you lead.” He aid, slouching deeper into his chair.

“Of course, I always lead.” She grinned. Wilhelm waved his hand.

“Later, yer old pal Wilhelm’s gotta find where his legs went off to first, yeah?”

“Mm, Wilhelm the Unyielding indeed.” Kuran said. The half-orc turned and found herself staring at Elena.

“Actually, I was wondering if I might have a dance with you, Kuran.” They said, the elf reaching out a hand. Kuran raised her brow, but took the hand.

“No tricks this time.” She said, standing. “I will be back for you Wilhelm, you are on my list. Wilhelm waved and nodded.

This left Wilhelm and Annice alone at the far end of the table. They watched the revelry for a few moments in silence, but soon Wilhelm sat up, straightening himself.

“Any further thoughts on my offer?” He asked, turning to the Hala-Elf.

“Many, but still undecided. I don’t know, as far as I know it is not forbidden by my order, but it is not highly looked upon. The High Priestess would never allow it.”

“You gotta do everythin your High Priestess tells ya?” Wilhelm asked, genuinely curious,

“Well, as long as I’m a Novice Cleric I do, once my Ceremony is complete I would be given the autonomy to do as I please, as long as Syrene still smiles upon me.” Annice took a goblet and poured a long drink, she was now thinking of how much trouble she was in.

“Whens yer ceremony then?” Wilhelm asked, he tilted his head when she shrugged.

“When Syrene makes it known that I am her chosen.” She pulled heavy from the goblet and turned to Wilhelm, noting his confusion. “What?”

“Ain’t you already chosen? Kinda figured that’s how it worked what with all the gifts of magic from the gods and all.” The man leaned back in his chair.

“I mean, I was chosen by Syrene when I came to join the church, and her influence guided me to the path of the Cleric yes, but I am not yet a Chosen. A Chosen of Syrene is simply a Cleric or a Paladin who is given the blessing by Syrene herself to enforce her will and sped her message of peace.” Annice smiled. “She truly cares about us, I’ve heard of other Clerics and Paladins who don’t have such a strong perosnal connection with their Deity. Syrene is a smaller Goddess, not like Bal the Light Bringer or Tess the Lady of Love. Syrene may have fewer followers, but she wants us all to know she loves us. I’m afraid, though, I may be besmirching that love with my action this day.”

“Ah phooey to that. If she was mad at ya would she let ya heal me up right and good? “ Wilhelm asked, as if that was some sort of revelatory statement,

“Healing you is one thing, Wilhelm, Syrene would never let an innocent suffer to punish one of her faithful, but a Cleric of Syrene becoming the Healer for a Gladiator? I don’t think it’s ever been done.”

“No it has.” A voice came into the conversation. Annice and Wilhelm both turned to stare at Elenra’s Cleric, the faithful of Verkal. Dorn was his name, and he carried a plate of food, obviously intent on seconds.

“Wait, what?” Annice sat up in her chair, andleaned over Wilhelm to get closer to Dorn. “You’re saying there’s another Faithful of Syrene who actas as the healer to a gladiator? And they are a Chosen?”

“I mean, yeah?” Dorn said casually. “Yeah they heal for, um, Rezzik Doomslayer. Fights in the eastern lands, towards Vellah. Great healer.” Dorn paused. “Okay fighter. I mean Doomslayer? Sheesh.”

This was news to Annice, who felt that her actions were some clear violation of Syrene’s will. But if she allowed for a Chosen to work for a Gladiator… ANnice let out a visable sigh of relief. She wasn’t betraying her faith. Though thatdid not mean Nim would see it the same way. She glanced at Wilhelm. You mentioned ‘on the road. ‘ What does that mean?”

“Well,” Wilhelm started, “I don’t exactly stay in the Sapphire Coast, much as I love the place. I like participatin in Exhibitions just fine, but the pay ain’t exactly grand. Naw I gotta keep myself mobile, travel all over for proper tournaments that pay out to the winners.” He shiften in his chair as he spoke, turning to face her more properly as he explained. “The most of us do it that way. It’s more profitable and it keeps your name out there amongst the people, which is absolutely key in this business.”

“I see, so we would be traveling together.” Annice stated.

“Yep, most Tournaments require a healer. Not too difficult to hire one from the local Healin House if you’re in a city, but then not every place has got Clerics, and not everypace got themselves healin houses. But it goes beyond that. It’s one thing to have someone heal you after a fight, it’s another entirely to have someone who knows how to heal you up right. A fighter and healer develop a bond, and there ain’t no replacing that.”

“And… you want me, to fill that role?” Annice’s cheeks flushed and she felt that it was all too hot suddenly. The way he spoke of it, it seemed an honor.

“Well, yeah. Someone who puts themselves on the line like you did… You say you ain’t breakin no rules, but yer certainly gonna get hell if this all gets back to your Temple, that I know. I want someone like that on my team, spots open if you want it.” Wilhelm smiled softly, and it was all Annice could do not to shout yes that moment. Instead she let out a breath.

“You make a stong argument Wilhelm. I will have to say, however, that I am still unable to commit. When can I give you my answer?”

“Well,” Wilhelm nodded, respecting her answer. “I have that meetin with Mareen tomorrow morning, first thing I said, so tellyou what. Half on the hour before sunrise, you meet me at the Magistrate in the center of the city, you can give me your answer there. If you don’t show, I’ll know your answer and it won’t be any hard feelings.”

“Okay Wilhelm, I will have your answer by then.” She smiled to the man, it was a tempting offer she could not deny that. Annice turned as Kuran approached.

“Wilhelm, you have had enough of a break, stop being a lazy bum and dance with me!” She cried out, Elenra hanging off her arm and laughing,

“Yeah yeah. Champions work is never done.” Wilhelm stood and took Kuran’s hand and they both left for the dance floor, leaving Elenra and Annice alone. The Elf looked at the Half-Elf, and offered their hand. Annice smiled and took it, and they too went off to the dance floor.

Annice stumbled onto the grounds of the Temple, which sat at the tip of the northern most cresent of the Cove that the city surrounded. She was groggy and more than a little out of sorts. She had imbibed perhaps a little more drink than she should have, and putting one foot in front of the other was a concerted effort. Wilhelm accompanied her, insistent on making sure she arrived safely home. Though the act was kind, it was somewhat moot as the man’s level of inebriation was not far from the Half-Elven Cleric. They leaned into each other for support more often then not, and as they approached the temple they could look inland and see the entire city circling the cove. It was quite a sight.

“I love this view, I’m sure to miss it.” Annice stated, “If I chose to join you, that is.” She was quick to add.

“The Sapphire Coloseum gives out some of the best prize pots in the western realm, we’d be back plenty. Couldn’t really resist this city myself though, almost home.” Wilhelm looked over the city, he could see the towering Colosseum across the water, settled ay the southern cusp of the crecent. “Now I’m sure you can make it the rest of the way in and I’m sure you ain’t gonna get in any less trouble if they see me around, so this is where I leave you, Annice.” He took her hand, gave it a little squeeze, and kissed it. “A pleasure workin with you. You’re one of the most skilled healers I ever been treated by.”

Annice smiled and nodded to him. “It was a pleasure, Wilhelm. Thank you.” She wavered a bit, but found her footing and headed for the temple.

The temple was a simple building, but ornately beautiful. The land had been carefully tended to, swaying grass and bushes framed a building covered with vines and budding flowers. The path to the temple was cobbled stone covered in soft moss flanked on each side by trees which all bore different fruits, she reached up and plucked a bundle of berries from one of the branches, smiling as she popped them into her mouth. The temples central chamber was an indoor pond, or more specifically a pond that had been made to be indoors. The pond was a holy site for the followers of Syrene, a body of water would not normally be found at the top of a cove, but the Lady of the Grove had blessed this land, and in her wake left behind a glade atop the rocky cliffs. Her followers tended this land, keeping the holy power strong, and blessing every ship that set sail from the cove a peaceful and tranquil journey. It was known as Syrene’s Gift.

Annice was in sorts that she had completely forgotten she was even in trouble. She sat at the pond and looked up through the open ceiling at the stars. While eating her berries she said a soft prayer to Syrene, thanking her for the wonderful day she had experienced. She was truly grateful to her Goddess’ blessing, and asked if she was doing anything that went against Syrene’s will. Annice sat for a moment in silence, when a brilliance from the pond drew her attention. There was always a shimmer of holy light to the water, but this was different, a glow from the entire pond. Annice’s eyes widened as the water started to ripple and churn… Her heart raced, this was an ill omen. Annice stood, staring at the pond, and through the roiling water thought she could see something. The berries dropped from her hand, and she covered her mouth in shock. It was Wilhelm, she was sure of it. The image was distorted and warped, but that had to be him. He was… He was dead. Laying on the ground, blood tricking from nose and mouth. The visage was gruesome in it’s depiction, the man’s face battered, and a gashing wound over the man’s eye. Annice was in a panic.

Protect Him.

Annice spun, she heard the words, but could not understand from where. Her brow furrowed and her hand found her holy symbol. She shivered as she felt the metal was warm. Syrene. Syrene has spoken to her? Wanted her to protect Wilhelm? Damn that drink, she couldn’t think straight. Her mind reeled, and… the next thing she remembered was waking up? Annice awoke in her bed, sitting upright in a start. She gasped and cried out, and then realized where she was. Confusion filled her for a moment, was that just a dream. She turned her head and saw Nim, sitting in a chair beside the bed, a deep set frown on her face. Annice whimpered, and that is when the hangover made itself known.

“Novice Qileth you are something, I will tell you.” The older gnome woman stated sharply. “Not only do I find you attending those fights, not only do you not come see me when you returned as I stated you should, not only do the Initiates find you sleeping in front of Syrene’s Gift, but now I’m hearing that you actually participated in that Tournement?” She stood on the chair as Annice sat up with a groan to keep eyelevel. “Is that all correct?”

“I fell asleep at the Gift?” Annice asked, rubbing her head. “I don’t… I don’t remember doing that.”

“I imagine not.” Nim said haughtily. “Had a bit of drink, did you?”

“Wine flows most free in a people at peace.” Annice stared, and winced as the words finished in her mouth.

“Do not quote scripture to me, child.” Nim stated, eyes narrowing. “You and I will speak, now.”

“Can I have some water first?” Annice’s brow furrowed into one of discomfort. Her head was pounding and she had not yet asked Syrene for her gifts of magic yet, and could not simply cure her own hangover.

Nim tapped her foot, but she was not a cruel woman. She nodded, and hopped off the chair. She walked to the end table and took a glass and pitcher already set there and poured a crisp and clean glass of water, handing it to the still dazed Annice. The Half-Elf took the glass to their lips and drank deep, leaning their head back as she finished the glass, extending the glass for another pour.

“Slowly child, you’ll make yourself ill.” Nim said with greater kindness in her voice, pouring another glass.

Annice nodded and sipped at the water this time. The coolness was agreeable and it was already waking her. She took a breath, feeling not so much revitalized, but on the path to it at least. She stood up and pulled at her underclothes, loosening the wraps and fetching fresh robes from the chest at the foot of her bed.

“I’ll meet you in your chambers in ten minutes, High Priestess, I promise.” She said, laying the robes on her bed, and taking up a fresh washing cloth from where the chambermaid laid them out in the mornings. “But first I’d like to wash up, if that is alright with you?”

Nim sighed, but nodded.

NaNoWriMo2019 - Progress Report 11/09

Broke 11K! I'm actually behind where I want to be. I wanted to be near 15 by the end of my writing for today so I could make a 3k sprint for my 18k goal tomorrow. Unfortunately I found myself self editing a lot today, a habit that I had been mostly able to avoid up to now. Just couldn't keep myself from rethinking things and making alterations to passages I wrote days ago.

But tomorrow brings an interesting opportunity as I will be joining in on a Write-In. In previous NaNoWriMos I was unfortunately never able to go to any local events as I was at the time, unable to drive. But now I'm road mobile and joining up with other people to sit in a cafe and silently write together, should be fun!

Fight or Flight - NaNoWriMo2019 11/09

After the fight, Wilhelm was named victorious. The battle was one of legend and went on so long the sun had set, darkness consuming the arena. When magical light was finally cast, Wilhelm and Krek were locked into a grapple.  The fight was close and Krek gave no quarter, when Annice reached Wilhelm after the final blow she found a broken man. She felt a pang of shame, this is what she came to see? Two people tearing at each other until only one could bare to stand? She laid her hands upon him and called her holy magic into him, closing his wounds and bringing him from the brink. Wilhelm was laid out, slack in the dirt, and laughed.

“Damn good fight.” He was smiling, Annice’s guilt faded somewhat, though she knew she would take greater care to remember in the future what these fighters pit themselves through.

Annice retreated back to the staging room, where she had helped Wilhelm gear up. Wilhelm stayed in the arena for the final ceremonies, where he would be celebrated and receive his prizes. There she sat, alone and pondering her day, for near an hour. Wilhelm eventually returned, painfully pushing though the door and pulling at the knots in his armor. Annice stood and was quick to smack his hands away and help him remove the bulky outerwear. Once free he sighed in great relief, pawed his undershirt off, and fell onto a mattress in the corner. Annice stared at him for a moment, taking in the sight. This was a man who had died nearly twice today and he looked no different than a smith coming home from the forge, weary but content. She approached him and called more magic into her palms.

“Here, you’re still in bad shape, let me finish my work.” She guided him to roll to one side, and she stared at his back. It was as perfectly sculpted as the rest of the man, it was also marred with many scars, deep red marks from his armor, and smattered with bruising. She furrowed her brow and began pressing her hands to his flesh, filling him with rejuvenating energy.

“Here, this is for you.” He stated as she worked, and lifted into view a sack, the distinctive jingle of coins as it moved. “Yer pay as my healer. Standard fer my healers is a full quarter of any winnins, though we can negotiate fer something else if that’s what ye need to do to stay on.”

“St…stay on?” Annice balked, and looked to the sack of gold. She didn’t reach out for it. She didn’t think about payment when she shouted out her willingness to volunteer, and certainly didn’t think she would be given a job!

“Yeah.” Wilhelm shifted and rolled back on to his back to face the woman.” You got the skills, clearly, you went through Healer certification right quick and still had the magic to put my ass back together after a tussel with a bugbear. And here you are, keepin up with the little shit too. I happen to be lookin to take on a new healer, why not it be you?”

“I, uh…” She struggled to find her words. Fortunately she wouldn’t have to, at least for now, as a woman pressed into the door, knocking on the wood as she did.

“May I come in?” She asked, seeing Wilhelm.

“Yeah Mareen, come on in.” Wilhelm stated, an obvious annoyance in her voice.

The woman entered, skin the color of white ash, hair black as a raven and cut short, with one shorn side, and with eyes that lacked pupil or iris. She stood upright and formal and in an obvious display of military learning. It was the armor, scarlet reds and umber gold highlights in intricate designs that showed her to be more than just a city guard, she was part of the Vibrant Spear, the high protectorate and military arm of the Coastal Enclave, which the Sapphire Cove was a member of. The shoulder cape of dark royal purple and gold trim showed her to be a Master General, someone of great and high stature. Annice nodded to her respectfully, she had healed a number of Vibrant Spear soldiers in the past, and the Temple of Syrene in the Cove respected them as the peace keepers.

“I sent you message that I wanted to speak with you today.” Mareen  state flatly.

“Yeah, and I had a tournament today, was kinda busy.” Wilhelm snapped back, lifting himself to a seated position on the mattress.

“You fought in two matches, it hardly took your whole day.” She glowered at him.

“Yeah well part of my Tournament regiment is a peaceful and calm disposition before I fight, something I can’t do if you’re jawin at me to do this or that.” He picked at one of his nails, making a show of not paying the woman much mind. The woman let out a short breath, the only sign of exasperation she was willing to afford this man.

“Yes well you are free now, flush in your winnings, and able to speak.” Mareen paused. “Privartely?” The eyes, pupiless as they were, still locked onto Annice. The cleric felt her heart skip, and she was about to gather herself to leave, Wilhelm raised his arm.

“This is my personal healer, and she is tending to my injuries. I trust her with my life and therefore so you should trust her with anything you want to say to me.” He grinned. “Besides there’s a feast to be held for all the Champions in two hours and it would be rude to show up all sore backs and twisted ankles.” There was a tension in the air, and it was obvious that Wilhelm was, mostly, doing this to annoy the woman. Annice went back to administering her healing magic.

“Fine.” Mareen stated through grit teeth. “We have a mission we would like you to come in on. One none of our agents can complete, but you are uniquely qualified for. It’s important, Wilhelm. It pays well, twice what you hauled in this competition.”

“Well it ain’t always about money, Mareen. I’m no sell sword, don’t even swing a sword!” He grinned wider, and tilted his head.

“I’m asking as a favor, Wilhelm, please do this.” She relaxed slightly, and the edge in her voice vanished. “For me.”

“Uh.” Wilhelm started. He was trying to rib her sure, annoy her a bit, but now he felt he had gone too far. He nodded. “Yes, of course. I’ll be there first thing in the morning. Let me have my revelry tonight, show my appreciation to my fans, and then I’m all yours for whatever clandestine mission you got, yeah?”

Mareen nodded and turned to the door, before she exited she visibly stiffened again, taking on her military attitude. Annice felt a palpable fog of awkwardness in the air now. Clewarly there was a history there, would it be rude to ask? She let the silence go on as she finished her healings.

“Now I went and made a right ass of myself.” He finally said. “Shoulda just said no, polite as I could, and be done with it.” He sighed.

“You two, uh, know each other?” Annice inquired, unable to help it now.

“Mareen? Yeah, I know her. Right pain in the ass she is, stick so far up her-“ He paused, and looked to Annice. “Well, all military types got that. She didn’t used to when we was together.”

“Together?” Annice quirked a brow.

“Yeah me, her, and a Elf man named Gliff used to work together in an Adventuring Troup, least we thought we was Adventurewrs. We were basically kids, running around doing some minor monster huntin, caravan protection, nothin too excitin like you hear in stories. But we were friends, well, more than that.”

“Oh.” That didn’t help at all! Annice was certainly not one for gossip, but how could you help but wonder when you see two people with on obvious history have an exchange like that?

“Anyway, you didn’t answer my question. I need a healer, you in?” Wilhelm stood and retrieved a green tunic from a satchel at the food of the bed.

“You can’t be serious, you don’t even know me.” Annice stated, standing and facing the man.

“Sure I do! You’re name’s Annice and you follow Syrene.” He waved a hand dismissively. “Rest of the stuff I’ll learn on the road.” Wilhelm dug into the satchel, pulling out a leather jerkin with intricate embroidered Dwarven Runes along the shoulders and breast, he tossed it on the bed and went into the bag again.

“On the road?!” Annice exclaimed. “You expect me to join you on-What in the name of all the Gods in the Celestial Realms are you doing!?” She shrieked, as she saw Wilhelm grab at his pant waist and pull, a full shot of the man’s rear end exposed to her before he leapt at her cry, drawing them back into place. He stared sheepishly.

“I uh, gotta get ready for the feast. Sorry. Wasn’t thinkin.” He stammered. “Most of my healers see me in the buff eventually and I just wasn’t…”

“I am not your Healer, Wilhelm. Not yet.” Annice said sternly.

“Yes, you’re right. Of course, my sincerest apologies, I was not thinking.” He nodded to her, clearly embarrassed at his lapse of judgement. “So, you’re sayin no to my offer?”

“I’m not saying that at all. I think I will need time to consider it.” Annice crossed her arms.

“Course! But see, you at the very least gotta come to the feast! All the fighters’ll be there, bring all their Healers. You don’t want me to be showin up without mine, would ya? Like comin to a Solstice Celebration stag, just ain’t right.” He grinned, breaking through the awkwardness.

“Mm” She mocked an indecisive tone. The man was charming, even if he was a bit of an oaf. She eventually nodded. “Yes, I will of course accompany you to the feast. Wouldn’t want your lack of a Healer to be the talk of the night.” She smiled to him. “But first I will leave you to finish your dress.” She turned and headed for the door.

“Thank ye kindly!” He said, and reached for his pants.

“Oh and Wilhelm?” She stopped at the door.

“Yes, Annice?” He looked to her.

“You have a really cute butt.” She left, closing the door behind her.

The feast, as was customary for Champions events, was held in the arena itself. Tables, a stage, and wooden dance floor had been set up over the packed dirt. Bards and minstrels sang songs, jugglers weaved between attendies, throwing fire and swords to each other to the delight of all, acrobats stacked themselves five and ten people tall, and all seemed to be in the mood for merriment.

When Annice arrived, she was arm in arm with Wilhelm, who cleaned up nicely. A simple spell had left her clerical robes of white silk spotless from the days activities, and as well had given the fabric just a slight magical sheen, she was literally glowing. Wilhelm wore the green tunic she had watched him put on, the finely tailored leather jerkin, and a pair of black trousers tucked into black knee high riding boots, trimmed in the same green as his tunic. The bun he had his hair in during the tounement had been undone, and now his hair was in an elegant braid of the Dwarven style that he kept pulled forward over his shoulder in display. The hair wasn’t very long and the braid ended at his collar, but Annice was very impressed.

The two were introduced as Wilhelm the Unyielding, Champion of Champions and Lady Annice Q’ileth of Syrene, Healer. They were the last to be introduced, and the revelry and every fighter, save one, cheered for them. Annice was grinning from ear to ear, this was amazing! Never had she thought that she would be able to attent the Champions Feast, let alone as an honored guest! Her heart swelled with excitement and revelry, in the back of her mind she knew that conversation with Nim would come and the wind in her sails would come to an end, but she’d be damned if she wasn’t going to earn her punishment.

The two approached the feast table, their chairs at the center between all of the fighters, each fighter sitting with their healer in the order of their tournament rank. Kuran sat to Annice’s left, and Krek sat to Wilhelm’s right. Krek glowered at Wilhelm, and was the only fighter to not cheer for him when he was announced. Annice quirked a brow at the Bugbear, but was distracted when the half-orc placed a hand on her shoulder.

“You did a good thing, stepping in like that for this bum.” She smiled widely, and was obviously halfway to drunk. Wilhelm laughed, overhearing her.

“That she did Kurry!” Wilhelm didn’t seem to notice, or at the very least didn’t acknowledge Krek’s glower.

“Oh it was… It was nothing, really.” Annice said, smiling. “I loved your fight with Elenra, so exciting!” Annice said. “I have to say I love all of your fights. You’re my second favorite fighter!”

“Yes! Elenra is good fighter, they will go far. I almost did not win, did not expect magic, they are very sneaky.” Kuran cocked her head. “Second? Who is first favorite?”

“Oh, uh…” She turned her head awkwardly to Wilhelm, Kuran laughed.

“Wilhelm you bastard! Why do you hog all the cute fans?” She said, reaching around Annice to sock him in the shouler. Wilhelm took a long gulp from a goblet, not even flinching at the punch.

“Cause the cute ones don’t like people cuter than them Kuran, and you’re the cutest of any of us!” Wilhelm said as he brought the goblet down and returned the jab. They both burst into laughter, and Annice was ecstatic to watch her favorites banter, even as she was jostled by the giants play fighting on either side of her.

“Cute one like cheater, seem.” Came a growling voice. Kuran, Annice, and Wilhelm all stopped in their merriment and turned their head to face Krek. “Because Wilhelm. He cheat Krek.” Krek said.

“Excuse me?” Wilhelm said, his smile vanishing into a deep set frown. “Think yer gonna have to qualify that statement, friend.”

“Krek said you cheat. Nothing to qualify. You cheat.” The Bugbear took his goblet, and drained it in two gulps.

“Now I’m findin it hard to understand how I came about cheatin you Krek.” Wilhelm stated.

“Leave him, Wil, he is just a sore loser.” Kuran interjected. But Wilhelm held his hand up to stop her, and Kuran rolled her eyes. She took Annice’s chair by the back and slid it closer to her, startling the Cleric. “Come, you sit here, this might brew into trouble, I keep you safe, we half-blood stick together, yes?”

Krek stood up, towering over the still seated human. “Krek stronger, faster, better fighter than human. You cheat, because no other way you win.”

Wilhelm stood up in turn. “I’m ready for round two any time, big man.”

“OY NOW NONE OF THAT!” Brisbane boomed, he no longer had his voice amplifying spell, but his voice carried none the less. The dwarf made his way between the two, and pushed Wilhelm back, facing Krek. “You, out! Take yer winnings and leave, you do not come into my Collesuem and question the judgments of my people, this is a formal strike against ye. You ever start shite with my people or the other fighters again, and you will be barred from participating in any other events, ye hear me?!” Brisbane barely came up to this beast’s waist, but he stood tall. Krek grunted, and turned. Taking another fighters goblet off the table and draining it, before crushing the metal container and dropping it to the dirt.

“Sorry about that m’boy.” Brisbane turned and patted Wilhelm’s arm. “Krek’s a hot head, but one of the greatest show fighters in the realm. Won the Bleedin Brawl Tournament in Rextrol up north three years runnin.”

“They don’t use Protection Wards up north.” Wilhelm said, staring at Krek as he walked away.

“Aye they don’t, which means he never lost a fight. You burned him pretty bad lad.” Brisbane said. “Anyway, pay him no mind, I won’t have anyone hassling my Champion, now get yourself to drinkin! You earned it!”

“Yeah, thinkin that might not be the only thing I earned today.” Wilhelm said solemnly.

NaNoWriMo2019 - Progress Report 11/08

Weaker day than before, but I'm not about to complain. I made the decision to spend time with my fiance. I'll be damned if a writing exercise, no matter how important, impacts my ability to be with my fiance. I broke 8K, actually at 8.8K, but I'm flagging and decided to turn in.

I'm giving myself a goal to reach by the end of the weekend. I want to be at 18K+, that will put be a full day ahead of the NaNoWriMo guggested daily word count. I think it should be quite doable.

The problem is that we're about to leave the tournament and that's where my plotting gets... fuzzier. I have the beats, but the connective tissue is hazy at best, we'll see how it goes.

Fight or Flight - NaNoWriMo2019 11/08

“Eh… what?” Brisbane stammered, turning his gaze to the woman dressed in white robes. “What was that loss, ye say you’re a healer?”

“Uh… Yes!” Annice shouted out, now very aware there were a great many eyes on were on her.

“Alright alright, uh, just give us all a wee moment there folks!” Brisbane tapped his throat with the wand as he, along with Wilhelm, walked to the stands and approached Annice. “Alright there Lass, ye say you’re a healer, that mean yer offerin to heal on behalf of this lug over here?” He gestured to Wilhelm, Annice regarded him, she was a bit star struck, though not as much as she would have been. She realized how much that display of abuse towards his healer cooled her opinion.

“Yes, I suppose that is what I’m offering. “ She stated with a nod.

“That there symbol on your medallion belays you’re one of Syrene’s faithful, was under the impression they don’t notmally look too kindly on us prize fighter types.” Wilhelm stated, gesturing to the dangling medallion, a series of intricately overlapping circles, currently in the arrangement of a Starburst. “Feel like we’re kinda the anti-thesis of her domain?”

“Syrene is the goddess of Peace, her followers abhor strife and war… We are not, strictly speaking however, barred from enjoying fighting as sport, as long as it is not done with malice or intest to do lasting harm.” Annice wasn’t exactly lying, it was all true, but it was hardly a popular interpretation of her church.

“Well, if you got the magic, come on down.” Wilhelm offered his hand to assist her down, but she decided to scale the podium herself, rather gracefully coming to a landing in the arena.

“Alright folks, apologies for the confusion, we’re gonna go ahead and take a small break again to manage this, ah, siruation.” Brisbane called out, touching the wand to his throat again.

Annice was, well, overwhelmed. She wasn’t entirely sure why she was doing this, especially since her opinion of Wilhelm had taken a sharp decline. She was lead to the through the arena and into a the back stage area, where the fighters stayed between their matches. It was a whirlwind of an event as various organizers questioned her and called on her to demonstrate her abilities. One person would prick themself with a dagger and ask her to heal it, the next would slash at their forearm with the blade and do the same. Each time the injury became slightly more severe, once they were finished they asked her if Syrene had gifted her with enough magic that day to heal a body from near death, when she nodded she was handed a scroll. A contract to sign, waiving all liability for death from the Colloseum and onto her as a certified Cleric of Healing Magic. She furrowed her brow, concerned now that she might be getting herself into more trouble that she may have originally bargained for, but signed it anyway.

Once she was done with all of that, Wilhelm approached. He seemed hesitant to speak with the Half-Elf, pacing from one foot to the other for a moment, when she tilted her head at him and gestured with her hand for him to please speak, he did so.

“Look, I know it ain’t exactly what you signed up fer, but my previous healer was the one who would help me don my armor and check to make sure it was secure, you ah… wouldn’t happen to know how to do that, would ye?” He asked, rubbing the back of his neck and seeming downright sheepish. “I would ask one of the other fighters, but it’s kinda bad form to have anyone but yer team do equipment checks, ya know?”

“I’m afraid I don’t know, Sir, I’ve never been part of a Tournement like this before.” Annice began, but Wilhelm interjected.

“Nah nah, that’s very polite of you and all, and thank you for that, but no Sir, please. I ain’t no Knight and I got no honorifics. Wilhelm, if you please.

“Of course, Wilhelm.” Annice smiled slightly, it was hard to hold on to that burning disappointment in him now. “Yes, I know how to don armor. I have aided the Syrene Paladins with theirs on more than one occasion.

“Great! Thank ye kindly, you really pulled my butt outa the flames there ma’am.”

“Annice.” She stated.

“Annice.” Wilhelm smiled and beckoned her to follow.

Wilhelm lead her to a small room where his equipment was stored. The breastplate, pauldrons, and Warhammer rested atop a wooden table and the maul, too large, was set in a special rack along with the shield. Wilhelm took the breastplate and sat on a stool. With Annice’s assistance they opened the armor and lifted it above the man’s head, slowly lowering it over him. Closing it around the broad man, Annice began to fasten the straps and cords. As she worked, she couldn’t help but notice Wilhelm’s physique, his biceps and shoulders, and just how handsome he was up close.

“Si-Wilhelm, can I ask you a question?” She said, working the armor so that it wasn’t tight enough to pinch, but so that it would not come undone in moving.

“Annice, you just made sure I got to finish this tourney, you can ask me two.” He grinned, and shifted to aide in her work.

“Why did your healer leave?” She asked, gesturing him to bring his arm up. She began to fasten the pauldron to the armor, and strap. Her fingers once or twice accidently met with his flesh, trailing over his forearm. His muscles were like iron. “I must admit, I saw your discussion with him, and while I could not hear it seemed you were being quite cruel to him.

“Piss on that!” He called out, and then turned to look at the woman, who’s gaze had snapped to his. “Sorry.” He grit his teeth awkwardly. “I mean, I was cruel to him because he was being a no good rotten worm. He told me to throw the fight.”

“Throw the fight?” Annice continued her work, but kept half a glance on the man’s face.

“Yeah, told me some bookie got at him, told him we’d make a lot of money, more than the pot, if we threw the fight. He wanted to do it, I said no.” Wilhelm huffed and turned away. “Said he needed the gold, so I said to him he could take his gold and shove every coin up his-… Well, I told him no.” Wilhelm stated, glancing back.

“I see.” Annice stated. She couldn’t see any lies in the man’s face, no strife, frustration aplenty, but he was being honest. “I’m surprised that he would ask someone like you to do that.”

“Right? That’s what I was tellin Brisbane. But he’s a Capils Faithful, the god of Coin and Fortune.” Wilhelm shrugged, and balked when Annice smacked his shoulder. “Hey!”

“Shh, don’t move or your bindings are gonna be knotted.” Annice had no more animosity, no more bitterness for this man. She could be happy to watch him fight again, and now… Suddenly apparent to her, she was acting as a healer! She tried to quell the very sudden rush of excitement that was threatening to burst from her.

“Yes’m.”

The two continued on in mostly silence after that, the armor coming together. Once done she took his Warhammer, and grunted as she lifted it, passing it to him. He took it and fastened it to his belt. Next she took the Maul, and once it came free of the rack she yelped and doubled over at the weight of it. He let out a laugh and her face felt suddenly hot. She scowled at him, and he apologized. With his assistance, she got it onto his back. Finally she handed him the shield, and he was ready.

“Now you’ve seen the fights before, you know how they work yeah? Seen the Wards?” Wilhelm asked as they walked down a hall towards the entrance into the arena proper.

“Uh, yes. I’ve seen that kind of Warding in the past, they are Protection magic, they keep you from dying when a lethal blow is struck.” Annice said in reply.

“Yeah, but thing is they can’t do that forever. In fact not fer long at all. It’s why when one goes off you see the healers sprintin like the King of the Three Hell’s himself was on their asses. Those protections wear off fast and when they do, well, a lethal blow is a lethal blow. So when you see that flash, you come arunnin. You can handle that?” It was obvious he wasn’t questioning her ability but giving her one last out, if she felt in herself any hesitation at the idea of it. It was also obvious that if her answer was no, he wouldn’t think less of her. This question was for her benefit, nothing more.

“I can.” She said, and she truly believed that she could. In the past, when she acted as a healer, it was mostly at the Healing House, where Clerics and Apothecaries cared for the sick and dying. She had never actually healed a man in battle.

“Alright.” He smiled, “Now one last thing, the Ward can’t do squat against blows that pierce the brain space. That happens, well, feel free to save your energy and take a leisurely stroll out to me, cause it won’t matter at thas point.”

Annice swallowed hard at the rather… grim jovialness Wilhelm spoke on this.

“Well Annice, let’s go kick some ass.” Wilhelm gave her a wink, and pressed though the entrance to the Arena just as Brisbane called his name.

“Alright, and his opponent, from the Mad Mountains of Lygorn, here he be, the beast of Belkan…. KREK!” Brisbane called out Wilhelm’s opponent, and Annice gasped, covering her mouth with her hands.

From a separate entrance to the arena stepped a bugbear, a massive creature covered in matted fur. Pointed in ear, claw, and fangs. The creature was a hand taller than seven feet, and wore a tabard and leather armor that stretched over it’s monstrously muscular form. It stared down at Wilhelm through sickly yellow eyes, and grunted at the man with a clear disdain. Reaching back it pulled from a leather sheath a battle-axe that it wielded no differently than a human would wield a handaxe. When the creature reached back again and pulled out a second one, Annice nearly fainted.

“Goddess, protect him.” She whispered.

NaNoWriMo2019 - Progress Report 11/07

Had a lighter session today but I still got to 7k, so I'm not exactly mad about it.

It was a struggle to start today, I'm not gonna lie. I've been sleeping very poorly the past couple days and I am very tired, it made locking in to start writing difficult to do. But once I did start it became much easier to stay on track. With the weekend coming up and much more open time to actually write I fully intend to close the gap that missing the first four days caused.

Now I don't want to give out the wrong idea, I haven't been missing sleep because I've been writing into the dead hours of the night (if I had I'd have gotten much more done by now) no it seems that the act of writing really amps me up, and after I end a session with the intent on going to bed, I kinda don't. I think the way to fix this going forward will be to start my writing sessions earlier, and get to anything else I need to do before bed after the fact. Up till now I would do all my Adulting like eating dinner and prepping for the next day before writing.

Fight or Flight - NaNoWriMo2019 11/07

The healers began sprinting onto the field, faster than before now. Both fighters were gravely to injured and the warding magic could only work for so long. Kuran’s healer had many internal wounds to deal with, while Wilhelm’s had only one substantial wound, but a grave one and a massive loss of blood. Both healers called upon their deities and began to channel the devine energy into healing magic, closing wounds, stitching bones, and restoring stamina. Both fighters were still uneven on their feet even after the healing, but were able to stand without assistance. Kuran lurched forward and stomped over to Wilhelm reaching out and grasping his wrist, raising it up high above them both, the two basked in the praise of the audience.

“Another good fight.” Kuran said, grinning. “Now we are even. Next fight, we see who truly win.” She gave Wilhelm a pat on the shoulder and turned.

“Now Kuran,” Wilhelm interjected, reaching his hand out to stop her. “I do gotta say that was indeed a phenomenal fight, but I got some umbrage with the fact that it seemed there at the end you was honestly gonna take me down stone dead by skewering me through the brain pan.”

“Yes, I lost my head.” Kuran said with apologetically. Shrugging she continued, “It will not happen again.” The two nodded to each other and Kuran continued on.

“Right, lost your head.” Wilhelm stated. He looked down as he felt the hand of Brisbane against the small of his back.

“Do we give ye what ye want ot do we give ye what you want, eh?!” He called out with his magically augmented voice. “Give it up for Kuran Tusk tooth! Second Runner-Up for this year’s Tournament! She gave it her all and fer that she ain’t walkin away with nothin, third place prize of fifty gold coins!” Brisbane took a step to the side, drawing his hands up to gesture to WIlhelm.” And another round fer Wilhelm the unyielding! Headin off to the final match! There, where he will face his opponent to see if he will be deposed… or if he will remain this great cities CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS!” He pumped his fist into the air, leading the crowd’s chanting before gesturing for quiet. “All right all right, now then settle ye down… settle, alright shut up now! We will be taking a fifteen minute break before the second round of the semi-finals. SO go on and get some food in ye or piss out ya, don’t you be waiting for the break between semi-finals and finals cause I can say you do not want to miss tonight’s finale!”

Annice found herself outside of the coliseum, breathing deep and feeling the cool ocean breeze on her cheeks. What a show it had been so far, and now she would get to watch Wilhelm the Unyielding in the Finals! She could barely contain her grin, this was going to be amazing! Nothing could possibly ruin this moment.

“Novice Qileth!”  Came a stern voice.

Oh, well that could. Annice’s heart sank as she heard her and her eyes opened to find High Priestess Nim, a stout gnome woman of advanced age, with feathered white hair, a stern wrinkleless face, and happened to be the head of the Syrene Temple in Sapphire Cove. She looked over Annice, and she didn’t look bad, moreso disappointed. That made it all the worse, in Annice’s mind. Her face fell, and she steepled her fingers.

“Ah, High Priestess, how surprising to find you here.” Annice let out, and attempted a wry grin.

“Yes I was going to say the same thing.” Nim stated, her brow raising in an expression of incredulity. “Just what are you doing here, young lady?”

“Oh, well I was just on an afternoon walk, High Priestess.” Annice quipped, standing up from the wall she was leaning on.

“Lies are wars we declare on the mind, Annice.” Nim stated flatly, closing the distance between them.

“I was watching the fights, High Priestess.” Annice stated softly.

“Annice…” Nim started, kindly. She clamored up onto a rock and sat, gesturing to Annice, who leaned against the wall and slid down to the ground, they now say at each other’s eye level. “Annice you know this is not our way. Fighting is the very antithesis to peace.”

“We send plenty of our faithful out to fight!” Annice jumped in… but stopped herself when she saw the look Nim gave her.

“We send out Paladins out to defend. And every stroke of a weapon for them is a sacrifice of self. That is also not your path, when you came to the Temple to devote yourself to Syrene, she in her wisdom set you on the way of the Cleric. The Clerics of our faith… heal.” Nim reached out and placed her hand on Annice’s shoulder. “Our Goddess is the Goddess of Peace, tell me child, does this display here seem peaceful?”

“Revelry and merry making, which is what this is, is the ultimate sign of peace.” Annice said flatly. She winced, ready to be reprimanded, though when she looked Nim was smiling softly.

“Mm, well…” Nim stated. “You’re not entirely wrong.” She leaned in, and patted the girl’s shoulder. “But the nuance of violence as a celebration of peace in Syrene’s name is a little more theologically weighted a discussion for a corner wall at the Colosseum, yes?” She stood from the rock, and with a hop that would be normally ill advised for a woman of her advanced age was again on the ground. “We will discuss this at the Temple, it will be one of many discussions.”

“Do… Do I have to go now?” Annice asked, daringly.

“Excuse…” Nim started, turning back to the woman. She caught herself on her words and let out a breath of slight exasperation. “Oh, so you intend to finish watching the show then?”

“I did pay quite a price for my ticket, High Priestess.” She dared a grin.

“Hmmm.” Gin shook her head, but then followed up with a nod. “In for a Copper…” She turned from the Half-Elven cleric. “I suppose if you’re going to sin, you might as well go all the way. We will be talking when you return.” And with that, Nim began walking away.

Annice slumped into the wall, her entire body going slack. Syrene could take her now and it would do little to effect the woman. She let out a gravely sigh, this was not great. Was she being punished? Surely not, she had never felt a rejection from Syrene in her morning prayers, Annice’s connection to her goddess was as strong as ever! Well, regardless of Syrene’s views on her clerics watching blood sport, Annice was sure to get an earful when she returned. Might as well enjoy the rest of the night.

As she stood up she heard a rumble, looking back to the Colosseum she realized it was the roar of the crowd, Three Hells! She was missing the second match of the semi-finals! They must have started while she was talking to Nim. Annice sprinted back towards the entrance to the colosseum and pushed through the crowds to get to the Arena. As finally managed to force herself through a group of very rude and quite obstinate Firbolgs, she made it back to her seat. She saw the flash of a Ward and two figures in the arena spill back away from each other and her heart broke. She missed the fight! She pouted and slumped againt the podium, not even being able to get a glance at the contestants with the disturbed dust and their healers running out to obscure the view. Brisbane came into view once again.

“By the Gods and Goddesses above did ya see that slobberknocker? I tell ye people, feel sorry for the poor cuss who missed that one!” Brisbane began.

“Oh shut up.” Annice grumbled.

“Alright folks, we have our semi-finals decided, and we’re going to take our final break for the night. But don’t ye go too far now cause when we come back we will be finding out. Champion! Of! Champions!” The crowd let out a cheer, and Brisbane walked off. The crowd began to mummer amongst itself, with a large amount of the crowd exiting the arena to find food or air. Annice did not, that’s what made her miss the match! She was gonna stay right where she was, and not move a muscle.

That was a lie, for quite a few muscles moved when she looked up and spotted Wilhelm standing against the wall across the arena. She bolted to her feet at the sight of him. He was out of his armor… and wow he was still huge! She smiled, excited at the opportunity to see her favorite fighter fight in the Championship match. Her smile started to face though, as she saw a man approach Wilhelm, his healer if she wasn’t mistaken. They began talking, and Wilhelm started to become visibly agitated. He started waving his arms at his healer, glaring at him, shouting now. He was screaming in the man’s face, the smaller man shrank away, and Wilhelm gestured at him with… Annice gasped, well it wasn’t a very polite gesture. Annice felt crushed, she had only ever seen Wilhelm as a performer, never in person. Was he… rude? Did he treat his healer with disrespect? That would be majorly bad! She couldn’t be a fan of someone who was a jerk. Annice scowled now, This night was souring quickly.

As the crowd started to gather again, Annice watched Wilhelm, who stayed in the arena, he was visibly angry and paced back and forth. Brisbane had eventually approached him, and they had a long discussion. Brisbane said something to Wilhelm and the human shouted, loudly enough that Annice could hear it. Brisbane seemed apologetic, and tried to calm Wilhelm down, who just gestured wildly and rubbing his face into his palm. Finally Wilhelm hauled off and punched the stone wall, when he brought his hand back Annice could swear she saw a crack there, but she couldn’t be sure it wasn’t already cracked. Good, that’s what you get for being rude to your healer, she thought.

“Eh… Lasses and lads.” Brisbane began, quickly quieting the cheers before they could even really start. “I am sorry to say, ah…” He cleared his throat, the magical amplification meant everyone heard it. “That is it is at my great regret to inform you that Wilhelm the Unyielding’s healer has… left. This leaves Wilhelm without any healer, which is required by regulation rules. Therefore unless he is able to find a healer, which he has already told me he cannot at this hour, he will forfeit the match. Therefore I must declare that this year’s Champion of Champions is-“

“I’M A HEALER!” Annice shouted at the top of her lungs, and she wasn’t really sure why?