Opening Ceremony
WHO: Orihime Inoue, Peleps Fals, Monkey D. Luffy, Yuna, Cathak Lera, Kazuki Mutou, Vash the Stampede, Alicia Winston, Makoto Kino, Luminous Sapphire, Shang Tsung
WHERE: Relief Society Community Center
WHEN: Saturday Evening, May 12, 2007
WHAT: An opening ceremony is held for the first Relief Society-sponsored martial arts tournament. Orihime explains the rules and announces the upcoming matches. Peleps Fals and Alicia Winston give hearty (but long) speeches on fighting. After people convene for sandwiches, an unexpected guest arrives to up the ante.
The basketball gym of the Relief Society Community Center is, for the moment, transformed into the assembly room to host the opening ceremony for the martial arts tournament. Red and yellow streamers line the walls, punctuated with clusters of white balloons. Rows of padded folding chairs are placed before the stage, where a single podium sits in front of a thick red curtain. A banner, stretched across the front of the stage, reads 'Welcome Competitors - Martial Arts Competition 2007' in dark blue letters.
The banquet hall, on the other side of the community center, has been prepared for the after-ceremony social. It wasn't stated what was being served, but there are some pretty good smells filling the hallway. Including bacon.
Orihime waits behind the curtain for the crowd to arrive. Several seats are taken so far, and it looks like there's going to be a pretty good turnout! She glances down at the papers in her hand, once more going over her notes, and the placement of the fighters to see who ends up fighting who. If this event has the kind of success the Steel Chef competition did, she'll definitely host it again next year.
One of the first arrivals at the opening ceremonies is none other than the newest recruit herself, Alicia Winston. She's dressed in her military uniform, looking rather proud and ready for today. She's not exactly a big martial artist per se, but she does know some fighting arts from her military training, and she's always looking to polish them up a bit.
Alicia arrives quickly, pausing to admire the sights and sounds, her gaze immediately drawn to the big banner. Apparently this is truly going to be a good one this year, Alicia can tell.
Another early arrival is Peleps Fals, in full Dynastic Immaculate regalia. He wears a long blue robe that goes almost to his feet, embroidered with stylistic, abstract designs in black. His hands are tucked together in the sleeves, and the only tattoo visible is the one that crawls up his neck and covers his bald head - blue, stylized. He is smiling widely, making his way slowly to a seat to wait. He /is/ a big martial artist - an Immaculate monk with no need of weaponry. He is quiet, for now, planning what he /will/ say. What a great oppurtunity to preach the Immaculate cause.
Lera of House Cathak arrives and looks around the room, for a moment. She peers around at the empty seats, before she swings along and takes a vacant seat. She sits down and sighs, before looking around. "They certainly did a lot of work on this place," she murmurs. When she does see Fals, though, she gives him a smile and a wave of her hand. Then, she rests back in her chair.
Luffy is one of the first to arrive. Mostly because someone mentioned that there would be free food involved. 'Free' and 'Food' are on top of Luffy's list of 'Favorite Words', so naturally, Luffy makes a note to show up. He's not dressed snazzily - in fact, he's wearing what he always wears - and slowly makes his way for the chairs, moving to a sit. He's psyched, actually, and he looks around to see if there's anyone he recognizes. This should be interesting.. mostly because he's eager to see who he'll be fighting first.
And Luffy's eager to figure out where the food is.
Vash isn't skilled in the area of martial arts, but he respects the message that the tournament is trying to put forth. The smell of bacon...just a bonus. He just hopes no one does a weapons search on him! It's ironic, even contradictory that he himself carries a gun. The pacifist would've left it behind decades ago if he could, but all things considered it just wasn't an option. Maybe someday though... For now the blonde man enters and takes a seat in the back, so that his height and hairstyle won't be an obstacle for any of the other spectators.
One of the older members of the Relief Society makes her appearance as Yuna looks about with an soft smile on her face. This is becoming such an great turn out, she hopes that Orihime is well pleased with this. Bells softly hitting each other announces each step she takes. She smiles as she notices one of her Guardians and waves in hopes that Luffy sees her. "Luffy!"
After everyone's filtered in, and the clock reads four, the curtains are drawn back and Orihime appears. She smiles as she steps forward, setting her notes down on the podium and reaching to adjust the microphone. "Good evening, and welcome to the opening ceremony of the first Relief Society-sponsored martial arts competition. I'm happy to say that we have a lot of wonderful, talented people sign up for this event! You're in for a real treat!" she winks. "The fights will be broadcast thanks to the Interplanar News Crew of Channel 4, so you can catch them there, or attend the events personally. Spectators are always welcome."
She flips over the page, continuing on. "First of all, here's the list of the rules. They're pretty simple, and if you have any questions, feel free to ask. First of all, no weapons. Natural-generated power is okay, though, like chi, magic, and alchemy...as long as it's not used to /form/ a weapon. Weapons are considered anything that cut, slice, or otherwise cause lethal harm to an opponent. Blunt objects are okay." Hopefully there won't be too much quibbling over that one; if there are questions, she supposes she'll take them on a case by case basis. "The match begins when the referee blows the whistle, and ends when an opponent is either unconscious, or yields the match. The winner will advance to the next round. Once all eight competitions have been completed, the next contestants will be announced. Fighters have one week to complete their matches. Those who are unable to fight...we know emergencies happen!...should let me know, and a substitute fighter will be asked to take their place. If a substitute is unable to be found, the fighter gets an automatic win."
Another page is flipped over, and Orihime pauses to clear her throat. "The first place winner will receive $1,000 and the championship title. Second place obtains $500, and the two third-place fighters get $100 each. Trophies will be awarded to all of these ranks, and as thanks for participating, everyone will receive one of these commemorative medals!" Orihime beams, holding open a small black flip-box bearing a gold-plated medal hung from a blue satin ribbon. "Any questions?"
When Luffy hears his name, he blinks and glances back. "Yuna!" He grins, lifting both arms and waving them ("Hey, arms down, buddy!") to indicate where he was. He motions for her to come sit with him, just in time to sit down for the curtains rising! We don't want to be rude and steal Orihime's spotlight, after all! So, Luffy listens to the rules. No problem. He doesn't use weapons. His body is his weapon! Gwahaha! So, he doesn't have any questions.. pertaining to the tournament, anyway.. and stays quiet to let others ask questions.
Peleps Fals considers several questions - notably, whether the fact that his hands are, in fact, rather more lethal than some swords is a problem. Ultimately, however, he decides - no, they are not. He'll just try to avoid permanently crippling his opponents.
The Dragon-Blood returns Lera's wave with on of his own instead.
Also in the audience is one Kazuki Mutou, who is of course listening intently to the speech from Orihime! Then again, he always seems to listen intently, with his thumb and index finger cupping his chin as he does so. Of course, it's important for him to listen to the rules, even if they mean he's at something of a disadvantage... But that's actually /why/ he's participating. Training, training. That's what this is, to him. But does he have any questions? ....No, no he doesn't!
Seems everything's clear! Orihime exhales in relief. Good! "All right! Now for the best part - the matches!"
A white screen slowly drops down from behind, onto which is projected the names of the fighters and just who they'll be up against. It doesn't seem to be in bracket format, and there's a reason for that: it ensures that Orihime can pit the most evenly-matched fighters together after each round. As for the names? Here you go.
Ling Yao VS Kazuki Mutou
Peleps Fals VS Monkey D. Luffy
Donatello VS Han Su Li
Rukia Kuchiki VS Renji Abarai
Alicia Winston VS Cathak Lera
Sailor Jupiter VS Ichigo Kurosaki
Sanji VS Luminous Sapphire
Edward Elric VS Xykon
"There you have it!" Orihime gestures with a sunny smile. "Good luck to everybody! We'll end the ceremony with remarks from our two guest speakers for the evening, who are also competing in the tournament. First we'll hear from Peleps Fals, followed by Alicia Winston. Let's give them a hand!" Orihime applauds, backing away from the podium with a smile aimed at the Exalt until she comes to a rest in the stage's left wing.
First, Rei needed some help with spring cleaning at the shrine.
Then, Usagi wanted to go shopping.
Then, she was distracted by the Sailor V game at the arcade again.
So, its not Sailor Jupiter's fault at all that she's late to the opening ceremonies. The Soldier of Thunder, Courage, and Running Real Fast finally makes it through the door and slides into a seat, huffing and puffing all the way. "Am I too late," she wheezes, collapsing onto the chair in front of her with a final gasp. "I had to, uh, fight off a youma on the way!"
Yuna does indeed move to where Luffy was and goes to sit next to him. She listens to the rules and smiles. She kinda wished to be a part of it but she isn't a good fighter. Perhaps next time she will participate. She goes to smile gently up at Orihime and joins her in the applauds but after offering Luffy some Besaidian treats. Must keep him fed, you know?
Fals notes his opponent - and decides he has a /distinct/ advantage this round. He's fought and defeated his opponent before, and will be prepared for Monkey's tricks. Still - it will be difficult. Regardless, Fals rises from his seat, making his way to the podium. He takes a moment to look around the crowd before he begins to speak.
"Greetings. I am Brother Fals of House Peleps, as you know. I have been asked to speak to you about why I fight, and the purpose of fighting. I will not speak to you about why /I/ fight. Instead, I will tell you a story."
Fals pauses, closing his eyes and taking a deep breath. "Long ago, in the dark times of Creation, the world was ruled by the vicious Anathema. They were cruel and merciless, fighting for power and pleasure. They denied the Will of Heaven, they had nothing but evil within their hearts. But the Will of Heaven could not be extinguished. Instead, there came into the world five souls, perfect manifestations of the Great Elemental Dragons. Five souls which burned with purity, justice and the Will of Heaven."
This seems to be a fairly long story.
Woo! Food! Luffy is briefly distracted, but manages to hear who he has to fight. Peleps Fals? He's fought that opponent before. It takes him a moment to remember, but it all comes back to him. Now that he knows how his opponent fights, he'll be better prepared to win this round. He glances over at Yuna, still chewing at his food, before looking back and listening to Fals' story.
Oooo, a story... Orihime perks with interest. Tales of good versus evil are always fascinating, and Fals has, admittedly, the kind of voice a storyteller /should/ have. She sits up a little straighter, listening keenly. This should be good!
Fals pauses dramatically - and then continues. "These five were the greatest beings ever to exist. The greatest who ever will. I will tell you of them. The first of them was a warrior from the frozen North, Mela. She was beautiful and cunning, with a speed of thought and action that was born of the whistling wind. Mela saw the depredations of the Anathema, and the tyranny with which they ruled the people of Creation, and she said, 'This shall not be.' Mela found the wisest and most powerful of the humans of Creation, and she taught them to unlock the power within themselves, to fight with not just body, but their very Essence! But that was not all Mela did. Mela, the Petitioner of Clouds Accordant to the Call of Battle, led her army, the first warrior to strike a blow, the last warrior to strike a blow. She moved as the wind, seeking out the worst of the Anathema in the North - Might of Seven Thunders, the mightiest of the Forsaken - an Anathema whose blows were such they sundered castle gates, and his wife, Ten Thousand Hidden Eyes, cleverest of the Tricksters - an Anathema who could seduce even a toad to cut off its own tongue. Mela saw them upon the field, and with the fury of the storm she ran to them, upon the spot devising the great martial art that today we know as Air Dragon Style. Using the power of her fists and her nature, she slew her foes, striking down first Ten Thousand Hidden Eyes, freeing from her thrall the myriads of enchanted slaves who served her - and then using her great intelligence to outsmart Might of Seven Thunders, striking him where he was weak, in the hidden spot upon his back where he had no armor and his skin was not as iron. Both fell to her might - but fame and glory were not why she fought."
Makoto made it for... the end of the meeting and storytime. And while she loves a good romance and/or adventure story, this one isn't starting off in either of those directions. Its a good thing someone left a program nearby so she could read up on what she missed.
Like the tournament pairings. The senshi's eyes light up like a pair of green LED's as the program floats to the ground. "Ichigo... Kurosaki," she murmurs to herself. (She's polite enough not to interrupt Fals, even if she's completely blowing the creation myth. We're not getting tested on this later, right?) "Well, a girl's gotta start somewhere..."
There is an exaggerated groan faaaaaaar in the back.
Someone mutters bitterly about Water-Aspected blowhards, but that part might be too quiet to be readily heard.
Yuna couldn't help it but to smile as Luffy eats the treats. She goes to focus on Fals story and listens with rapt attention. What a interesting story. She bets the old man (as she can't remember his name right now) would love to hear this. But nonetheless, She listens quietly and politly, giving him her full attention.
Fals, between breaths, glares into the crowd to determine where the groan came from - but he has Performance dots! He will not be unprofessional in his speech. Taking another deep breath, he continues.
"The second of the great ones was from the burning South, a man named Hesiesh. He was wise and frugal, never using his great power and always looking to solve his problems with the strength of but a man. He looked upon the cruelty of the Anathema, the pain which they caused to all they touched - and he said, 'I will not let this happen.'"
"Hesiesh raided the Anathema from the deserts of the South, striking at their weak spots and never resting. At last, in a great battle, his loyal raiders faced the worst of the Southern Anathema - the cruelest of the Blasphemous, Blinding Sky-Lit Eye, whose dark words called legions of the dead to rise from the southwestern seas, defying the will of nature and of Heaven, and the most vicious of the Ogres, her husband, Startouched Claw of Fury, who summoned forth dark demons of pain and cruelty to torment the mortals in his power. Hesiesh saw them, and he devised in that moment the whole of what we know today as Fire Dragon Style - yet he did not use its magic."
"Indeed! Such was the power of Hesiesh that he was able, with cunning and wit, to slay his foes without using magic. He struck Blinding Sky-Lit Eye with his mighty blows, defeating her before her dead servants could tear him asunder, and in slaying her, returned their souls to rest. As the Startouched Claw of Fury attempted to call his demonic servitors, Hesiesh struck him down, preventing the demons from being called to more acts of cruelty and torture, for even creatures such as they did not deserve that fate. Then, Hesiesh kneeled, surrounded by the dead - and in one great act, he released every bit of magic he had not used in his lifetime. That is - all of it. In a great conflagration, every fallen body burned to a pile of ash, that the dark spirit of the Anathema could not possess them from the grave - for such was the dark intellect of these two Anathema that, between them, they could have done it. But Hesiesh did not fight for money or for excitement."
Muttering falls suspiciously silent.
Fals smiles beneficently as he pauses again. Time for Part Three. Fals isn't sure why the muttering has stopped, but hey, anything good is worth having happen. Maybe it was a Stunt bonus or something. Deeeep breath...
"The third of the five was from the center of Creation, the hub of civilization. He was Pasiaps, a man of strength and wisdom. He was slow to anger and patient with all people - but the Anathema of the Pole of Earth were such vicious rulers that Pasiaps stood and said, 'No more.'"
"Pasiaps gathered the people to him with his quiet words and his humble nature, and he forged them into a weapon against the Anathema, just as he forged a sword. The worst of those he fought were these - the darkest of the Unclean, a cold, merciless man named Gaze of Burning Brilliance, whose mind was so keen that it was thought he could read the minds of others - and his wife, the most unpredictable, vicious Moon-Mad, whose name was Fifty Blades Dancing. Pasiap led the rebellion against them, and in the courtyard of their palace, he confronted them - and in that moment, composed the whole of Earth Dragon Style."
"Pasiap was slow and patient - and as Fifty Blades Dancing attacked him, he weathered her blows like the very Imperial Mountain itself - and as she tired, he struck once, with the power of the landslide. She crumpled before him - and her husband attacked, summoning his mightiest spells. They were for nought - the skin of Pasiap was as stone, and his blows were as powerful as earthquakes, and inevitably, it was Gaze of Burning Brilliance who fell. But when he was done, the cities were ruined - and Pasiap began his work, rebuilding them and teaching his fellows the arts by which they might make buildings strong. While he, like all the Immaculate Dragons, had a chance to ascend unto Heaven, he put it off for centuries, that he might help his fellow men. But Pasiap did not fight for power or to rule."
Lera listens to Fals' story, though her expression remains hard to read. She seemed satisfied with her match; she even smiled. However, she knows this story - a child of the Realm has heard it before, and she doesn't have to be converted. She remains there, quiet, and listening.
Sailor Jupiter goes back to browsing through the program. Luna ain't got nothin' on this guy...
There is a long, annoyed sigh somewhere in the crowd.
It might or might not be right near Lera.
Fals continues. His story is /awesome/, thank you. It is /very awesome/. So awesome that the long version can take a full day. Or more.
"The fourth of the five was from the wooded East, a cunning forest chieftain named Sextes Jylis. Sextes Jylis saw the pain caused by the rapacious, cruel Anathema, and he raised his bow and said, 'Such things shall not happen.'"
"Sextes Jylis was a shadow in the forests, his nature letting him hide in the pulse of life and death in the woods, the proper way of things. The worst of the Eastern Anathema were these - the most cunning of the Wretched, Vision of Darkness, whose arrows spread poison and disease where they touched, and her husband, the cunning, cruel Nightthief known as Stealer of Breath. Sextes Jylis fought them, leading the people from bondage to fight their cruel masters and teaching them to heal the diseases spread by the Anathema. They finally met in battle when Sextes Jylis's beloved home forest was set ablaze by the last two Eastern Anathema - the worst two of the region. Sextes Jylis met them, and on the spot he devised Wood Dragon Style."
"His bow and fists flying, Sextes Jylis was unharmed by the poisons of Vision of Darkness, healing himself with a touch and striking her down. As Stealer of Breath came upon him, Sextes Jylis whirled, revealing that his foe's stealth had been no help, and sent an arrow through his heart. Sextes Jylis was not done, however - he dedicated his life to replanting the lands burned by the Anathema, spreading seed wherever he went, healing the scars of Creation just as he had torn out the cancers. But Sextes Jylis did not do this for glory or for greed."
Luffy is.. well.. bored. His head is resting on Yuna's shoulder now, a trickle of drool slipping free of his lips. Zzzz..
There's a muted snicker somewhere in the crowd. "Heh heh. He said 'sex.' Heh heh." "Huh huh huh. Yeah."
Sadly, Luffy isn't the only member of the audience who's taking a nap. Long stories are hard to pay attention to! Kazuki's head lolls back on his chair, likewise snoozing. Hopefully though, most people present have better manners than Mutou or Monkey.
Yuna is anything but bored but blinks as she feels a head resting on her shoulder and goes to look towards Luffy. A soft smile comes across her face and reaches up with a hand to pat the poor pirate's head. She has an idea to wake him up but would do so after the long story. It was quite fansinating.
Somewhere on the MUSH, Lancer has connected.
The story's /almost/ done. Really. We swear.
"The fifth and last of the five was a woman - no, a /girl/. Danaa'd from the West, a sailor's daughter, still a teenaged girl yet wise beyond her years. She saw her father and the people of the West beaten and mistreated by the Anathema, and she stood and said, 'This ends now.'"
"Danaa'd struck out at the Anathema, to free the people of their ensorcelled slavery and to destroy their piratical empires. Despite her youth, she led the unenchanted people of the West in rebellion, sailing the vast Western ocean to fight the Anathema, the worst of whom where the Deceiever named Beautiful Whispers, who could charm a cloud from the sky and talk a man into slavery, and his wife, the Frenzied called Seven Oxen Stand Tall, whose children were an army of vile beastmen. They thought to stop Danaa'd by taking her father, but Danaa'd stopped them, facing them upon their flagship. As she stood before them, she devised at once all of Water Dragon Style."
"Striking them with the fury of the sea itself, Danaa'd was able to shatter the magics of Beautiful Whispers, breaking his hold upon the enslaved masses and slaying him, his own blood rising against him. She struck down Seven Oxen STand Tall, slaying the mighty Anathema with the fury of a hurricane and scattering her army of bestial children with the rage of a tidal wave. It was Danaa'd who was chosen among the five to lock away the souls of the Anathema, to prevent them from escaping the Underworld, and she did it without complaint and with skill never shown again in any living being. But Danaa'd did not fight for fame or for power."
Fals places his hands together. "You can see why the Five Immaculates fought. They fought for /justice/. The power to fight, the power to strike down a foe - this power is not to be taken lightly. Used wrongly, it is a tool of torture, a vicious perversion of the Will of Heaven. But that is why we must exist. Why we must emulate the great Immaculate Dragons - we must fight for justice and for freedom, that all might follow the true Will of Heaven, not be corrupted and enslaved by the Anathema and those like them. That is what it is to be a warrior. Any man can lift a fist or a sword and /fight/ - but a true warrior knows when he must do so, and prays that is not often. A true warrior is not strong of body alone, but also strong of soul."
Now that's exactly the kind of message Orihime was hoping someone would deliver. Her expression warms as Fals makes his closing remarks, and she shifts forward to applaud. "That was wonderful!" she exclaims enthusiastically. "Thank you very much, what a great story!" It also brews an idea for a future event... She'll work on that later. "Peleps Fals, ladies and gentlemen," she beams, moving to the podium. "Up next, we'll hear from Alicia Winston." Again she begins to clap, and moves away to her former spot.
Yuna goes to clap her hands at Fals as it was such an wonderful story. She goes to look towards Luffy and goes to think of a way to wake him up. If he is anything like Wakka then this should do that trick. She goes to move her lips near his ear and spoke a few words softly into his ear. "Food is up."
Lera, too, applauds for what she heard; it was a familiar story. However, she perks at this announcement - her first opponent will be speaking? She raises one eyebrow, and waits for a moment. She wants to see just who it is she will be up against.
Fals retakes his seat after a low bow, smiling. He got to preach and only one person heckled him! That means his preaching is /working/ and obviously several people will convert to the Immaculate Philosophy.
/Awesome/.
Alicia has been listening intently all along, but has shown no signs of falling asleep. In fact, as soon as the speech is finished, she's one of the first to snap to her feet and start applauding loudly. Apparently, she really enjoyed that one.
Sailor Jupiter has better manners. Sort of. After she turned her program into an origami kitty, she found herself without anything else to use as a distraction. So she's zoned out of the meeting, her eyes staring ahead vacantly while she daydreams of enjoying a picnic with someone who initially resembled her sempai. One she's snapped out of once Orihime starts clapping. "Huh? Oh! Uh, yay?" Clapclap.
Luffy awakens immediately when someone whispers something about food. "Eh? Huh?" He glances around slowly, groggily, perking up suddenly. He's awake! Really! "Food? Where?" He glances around quicker now.
A very soft chuckle escapes from Yuna's mouth at how fast Luffy woke up to the mentioning of food. She reaches into one of her sleeves a pulls out a fish snack-thingie and offers it to him. "The story is over, Luffy. It's the next speaker's turn."
As soon as Peleps Fals has finished and has sat back down, Alicia decides to take her turn as the next speaker. She calmly walks up to the podium and clears her throat. "Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Alicia Winston, the newest recruit to the Relief Society, and also a member of the Vital Situation-Swift Elimination agency. I am speaking to you today about anti-gun violence, which may seem kind of hypocritical because I was once forced to utilize fire arms in order to protect my own country, but even then, there was nothing I could do about that.
A pause. "First, a bit of history. I am from a country in the Mediterranean Sea area known as Lukano. We were a peaceful nation along with our neighboring country Astigos, but things would soon change for the worst. One of the territories of Astigos, known as the Zagorias Federation, wanted to claim independence and become their own country. However, Astigos did not fully support this, and as a result, the Federation invaded the island of Astigos, and then launched an attack on our own country.
Alicia pauses to take a drink of water before continuing. "At this time, my brother, Daniel, had formed a small army force known as the 'Lukano Liberation Army.' I wanted to help out, but Daniel was skeptical about my involvement because of my gender. However, when my brother and his troops were betrayed by one of our own men, I had no choice but to launch my own investigation into the matter. It was at that time that I learned that the Zagorias Federation had actually deployed tactical missiles which could actually strikes neighboring territories in Europe and Asia, and it was then that I realized this was a bigger threat than even the Lukano Liberation Army could handle."
Here we go again. Sailor Jupiter goes back to daydreaming, only now the boy she's sharing a bentou with looks something of an amalgamation of Monkey, Kazuki, and Fals for some reason.
Fals listens respectfully - to do otherwise would be hypocritical! And Fals is only a hypocrite in /select situations/, generally involving the Anathema. Who aren't here.
/Are they, Blue Dolphin?/
Alicia takes another drink of water before continuing with her speech. "With the aid of VSSE agents Alan Dunaway and Wesley Lambert, we eventually found out that Giorgio Zott, the leader of the Zagorias Federation, had been working in conjunction with Wild Dog, a criminal mastermind who never seems to die, in his effort to take over our country, and then apparently would use the missiles as his method of gaining control of surrounding nations. That is, of course, if we hadn't stopped him. After that, the VSSE was impressed with my skills, and offered me the chance to train like an agent. I must admit that it was tougher than anything I'd been used to as a soldier, but in the end it was worth it, and I became an agent within the VSSE, but it's more of a 'per diem' basis thing.
Alicia clears her throat again. "But that is not why I am here. I am here to talk about anti-gun violence. It is one thing for the military and police units to carry a firearm with them for the purpose of defending themself. Unfortunately, the reason they need this type of defense primarily is because they are defending against people who feel they need to use firearms to get what they want to, because nobody will listen to their words, whether they're of demand or reason. People think that carrying a gun makes them invincible, and that if anyone should stand in their way, they'll face the wrath of their gun.
"And even then," Alicia continues, "A lot of people aren't carrying guns just for bargaining purposes in general. Some of them are into using drugs and use their guns to hold off against the law, as well as to rip off other drug dealers and buyers so they can get the awful substances they consider to be one of, if not the most, important things in their life. There are other reasons too, mind you, but the fact remains that gun violence is something we don't need."
Blue Dolphin sure isn't here, no sir, nosirree!
Ignore the fact that one of her known aliases is on the fight roster, and that someone with bright blue hair is in the crowd, still muttering acidically while sitting in the general vicinity of SOMEBODY.
Alicia takes another sip of water and wipes her lips before taking a deep breath and continuing again. "I know that it's not possible, at least not anytime soon, to be able to remove guns and their violence from our existence, but we can take steps to cut down on it. Most gun violence comes from conflicts, especially when they get heated. When it comes to conflicts, my personal motto is, 'Words, Not Weapons.' Try to talk it out with whoever is causing you conflict, and if things get heated, try to take a breather, and come back when things have cooled off. Try to encourage other people you know to follow this motto as well.
"Secondly," Alicia continues, "There are times where you will need to defend yourself. There is no doubt about that whatsoever. However, you should seek out proper training in self-defense so you'll be better educated on the right times and techniques for these situations. In some cases, though, like if you're being mugged, it's best to just do what the assailant tells you to do, since your valuables are never worth your life. If they do attempt to harm you, though, then you should attempt to strike, but only when it's safe to do so. You don't want to attack someone who doesn't intend you any harm and end up adding fuel to the fire. And lastly, remember that if you must own a firearm, please make sure it's in a safe spot that persons who aren't supposed to be using it, especially children, can't get to it.
"And lastly, please remember my motto, as I feel that if more people heed it, then it'll have an impact on violence in general, and not just on gun violence." A pause. "Thank you."
Orihime applauds politely, smiling her thanks at Alicia with a nod of her head as she steps forward. "A wonderful statement, Winston-san, thank you very much for sharing it with us. Let's give her a hand!" Orihime encourages further applause for just a few moments, before she gathers her papers in hand. "On behalf of the Relief Society, thank you all for coming. Good luck to the participants! This is going to be a /fantastic/ tournament. Now let's eat!" she claps her hands together.
The screen with the names of the contenders moves back into the ceiling, and the doors to the gym swing open. "This way!" the usher calls, directing the gathered crowd towards the banquet hall. Once there, people will find tables covered in white cloth, bearing large trays of sandwich triangles. Salmon, tuna, egg salad, ham, BLT's... There's a wide variety to choose from! There's also a row of individually-bagged chips, platters of cheese and crackers, veggie and fruit trays, and a large bowl of orange-flavored punch. There are only a few tables here, pushed to the side, the floor open for mingling and socializing.
Yuna listens with rapt attention once more and like before but this time, she stands to offer applause. She will wait until the room clears out a little before going to eat but in the meantime, she looks about for the speakers.
Peleps Fals applauds as Alicia finishes. He wasn't sure what it was all about, because guns are Not Something He Understands - but hey, it was a good speech. Kind of short, by Dynastic standards, but good.
Dynastic Standards say that Fals had a fairly short speech.
He stands to go over to the food afterward, filling a plate with salmon. Mmmmmmmm, seafood.
Lera gives an applause, as well. She didn't quite understand it - guns aren't really in her world, and thus lost on her. Besides, she is now some sort of crazy superbeing who eats gunshots for dinner. She stands up, though, and falls into the line that inevitably forms. As she does, she looks at Orihime. "Oh, thank you!" she says to the host. Ignore the way they look similar! "It really is rather nice."
"Yay?" Sailor Jupiter applauds again on cue, wondering if she's going to have to go through this again if she wins the tournament. Heck, what would happen if she herself was asked to give a speech! Gasp! Maybe she can just give her slot to Usagi or Minako and let them wow the crowd. They're good at that.
As for the free food, the senshi passes and instead, after signing a few autographs, heads back to good ol' Tokyo. Food and mingling is nice, but there's evil to fight by moonlight that's not going to get fought if she stays here and gets fat! That, and she has a high score to re-take on the Sailor V game...
Yuna blinks as she watches the senshi move pass her and tilts her head at her. "Thank you for coming." She calls out to Sailor Jupiter before going to try to find someone that already doesn't have someone to talk with.
That is roughly about when the second ceremony begins.
They come in double-file, a small group of hard-eyed men in dusty robes, carrying weapons that look as if they were plucked straight from the courts of Hell itself. They do not seem rowdy--they don't make eye contact with a single denizen of the ceremony. No, their weapons--naginata, to those who would recognize them--are enough to transmit purpose. Purpose itself defines their roles. They are guards.
And at the center, a man who should be at the least, known for his own purpose.
He walks somewhere near the center of the group as they file into the banquet hall just after the main group at sudden, wearing his traditional hard travelling leather coat. It seems like Yuna has something. The sorcerer seems to have encountered her first.
"If you could please direct me to a Miss Inoue," Tsung asks, his voice thick and pressed like his clothes, and his smile all too accomodating. "We've... something of our own to add to the festivities."
They would have to arrive just as Makoto was heading for the door. The senshi immediately steps aside as the procession marches past, her brow furrowed in puzzlement at what the heck's going down. Curiousity - and an impending sense of Bad Things About To Happen - get the better of her, and Sailor Jupiter follows the group back to the main hall. However, she stays to the background for now, folding her arms with her best 'You Best Not Be Steppin' frown.
Indeed, where IS the hostess of this function? Why, she's in the kitchen, now coming out with a tray of dessert sandwiches. Wait, dessert sandwiches? And what would those be? Slices of white bread, slathered with a combination of sweet bean paste, chocolate syrup, bananas, honey, and/or raspberry jam. She's not sure if they'll go over well, but even if they don't, she'll be glad to eat them and bring home the rest. Ling will polish them off with ease. "Here we go!" she announces happily, dusting off her hands once the tray is set on the table. "Fals-san, thank you again for the story. It's just the sort of thing we were hoping to share!" she beams, turning towards the Exalted.
Fals, who has been - well, around, eating fish, really, nods to Orihime. He glances at Shang Tsung as he speaks to the girl. "I am always happy to speak of the Immaculates. I can only hope that I swayed some of them to truly contemplate the story - perhaps even the Immaculate faith. I will see at our next service...but if it has helped in any way, I will be proud." He pauses. "I believe that man wants to speak with you - but be careful. His entourage do not appear to be - trustworthy, even if peace is enforced here."
Yuna blinks as someone speaks up to her and goes to look towards the sorcerer and smiles. "Lady Orihime?" She goes to tap a finger to her lips. "I believe I know where she is, please follow me." She begins at once to head towards the kichen. "Might I ask what you like to add to the festivities?"
The sound is unmistakable.
Amongst Shang Tsung's personal guard, when one foot lands, many land, in a perfect lock step. The only dissenting shoe among the whole affair is a tough rawhide boot, that of Shang Tsung. Now he nods graciously to Yuna and, with a single two fingered gesture, directs his escorts to follow. He smiles faintly at all assembled. There's a woman over there with a distinct 'do not cause trouble' frown.
Tsung's feigned innocence is legend for both its potence and disingenuity.
To Yuna, he is arguably more direct, at the very least. "Ah~," he allows, with a more general gesture for patience as he follows. "Curiosity, my dear. Something to be satisfied in due time. We wish not to end up like that fabled cat, do we?"
He is gracious enough for he and his host to stop about half and a quarter the way, just when they are within sight of the hostess and Fals. Yuna is free to continue walking, but it would be strange to do so. This is enough, and is a basic function of political hospitality--whether it is a declaration of such or a demand of such is what remains to be seen. They cover most of the ground. However, it is to Inoue--and anyone interested of course, to come to meet them, judging from Shang Tsung's 'come hither,' espressed in gesture and, most tellingly, one glance. Anything else may be taken as hostility. Of course.
Nevermind that the gathered weapons, as a score of staffs strike the ground at the exact same instant to settle a score of blades into a 'ready but idle' position' do that well enough on their own.
Call it a cultural difference.
Yuna tilts her head but then lets out a soft chuckle. "A fable cat I might become if I have to wait to see." She lets out another soft chuckle and smiles as she catches sight of both Orihime and Fals. She smiles and waves towards the both of them. She does stop walking once Shang Tsung does and smiles towards him. "There she is." She will stick about to see what he wishes to speak with her about.
Luminous Sapphire is probably in the crowd somewhere. In fact, she is - slipping forward through the masses. She HAD been interested in food, but the appearance of a diabolical warlord with his entourage of fully stab_OK persons...well, it doesn't look good.
She clenches and unclenches her hand, knowing the rules of the Hub but worried she may have to intervene anyway.
Normal people would be terrified by an army of that magnitude, startled by its apparently gregarious leader, but...well, for a Solar Exalt, taking on an army of superelite shocktroops and their charismatic sorceror-warrior leader? Just means it must be Sunday already.
"That would be nice!" Orihime beams in agreement with Fals. Since she's already quite aware of what the afterlife is like, she doesn't really have a reason to subscribe to anyone else's religion. But she can support them just the same! Maybe she'll attend a service to make him happy. If its sermons are all about big glorious battles, then at least they'll be exciting sermons!
However, it isn't necessary for Peleps Fals to warn Orihime. She's already looking in the direction of the sorcerer with a faintly worried frown. Repercussions for the rescue she'd organized? Gosh, she hopes not...that's one person she doesn't want to hold a grudge! The non-violence security measure bolsters her confidence, though, and when Shang gestures, Orihime steps forward. She's not really sure what to say, though. Her gaze flickers over the assembled troops, then moves back to Shang Tsung's face inquisitively.
Makoto was trying hard to keep an intimidating stare, but she's not finding much success right now. Not with the precise military maneuvers or that oh so innocent smile from the group's leader. A chill runs down the young girl's spine, shivering her ponytail and the collar of her colorful fuku. A bead of sweat twinkles as it rolls down her sidelock, though her only reaction is to bunch up even further in her disapproval. She knows she can't allow her fears to take over, but, deep down inside, Sailor Jupiter is still a young and naive junior high school student.
She's been killed before. It wasn't an experience she would like to repeat.
"Then observe," Tsung asides to the summoner. "Observe, and learn."
Jupiter, Yuna, and Fals--these are all the subject of Shang Tsung's residual interest--caution is such a situation is something not to be discounted on either side of what is obviously a tense affair. As such, all three, and various others, including Sapphire, are accounted for directly by members of Shang Tsung's personal guard, but also enjoy the faintest hint of the sorcerer's attention direct. He is, after all, a master of the social gathering.
Were it any other time, were it any other place, were it any other circumstance, one could imagine Shang Tsung to be merely a front man, an empty politician at best, or merely a cheerful Asian with an oily glance. However, there is a distinctly immoral quality attributed to his half-lidded glance, an interest that he fixes Orihime with that .. cannot, by definition, ever be entirely official.
There are men and women both who have gone entire lifetimes without being looked at in that way and been the better for it.
"You'll forgive my facade, Miss Inoue," Tsung begs assiduously. "Amongst other purposes, a necessity of my station. You understand," he explains, waving across his guard. "As it has been no doubt a long.." A glance at Yuna, "..and tiring day for you all, I will keep this brief. When I heard of your ... tournament, I must admit, I was intrigued. However... I found the stakes to be... not quite interesting enough. Though, by design, I cannot expect your ... group to ever condone something for a proper tournament," the Grandmaster of Mortal Kombat suggests, "..allow me to show a favor of providence."
Shang Tsung slides a gleaming ring off of his left hand.
"From here, the offer is simple. With this single favor, I will more than quadruple the prize offered for your tournament's participation. To increase its interest." A pause. "..Merely in exchange for the simple right to challenge the champion your tournament decides." He holds out the ring.
That smile is all too predatory.
"A simple thing. Do you accept?"
Luminous Sapphire watches with interest.
Especially when the ring comes into play, because she's a pirate queen and she likes things that glitter, even when they're being held by evil warlord sorcerors.
Yuna smiles and nods at his words but then frowns slightly as she watches Orihime's reaction to this man. She knows the girl well enough to know that she gets along with just about anybody and whomever makes her worried is a bad guy. Those mismatched eyes flutter back towards Shang and watch him carefully. The ring was really shiny but who knows what this man would want in return. She goes to take a couple of steps towards Orihime and tilts her head at her. "What do you think?"
Sailor Jupiter's apprehension goes right out the window with the revelation of the shiny. "All of this, just for a chance to fight the winner?" Here she was worried that something evil was afoot, and all Shang wanted was to join the party. She even feels a little embarassed about over-reacting now, and she blushes faintly while glancing around to find something to look away at. Oh, hey, a sleeping Kazuki!
Orihime looks hesitant, her eyes falling to examine the ring. She doesn't really want to touch it, shiny as it may be. He really doesn't care about the prisoner rescue? It seems much too good to be true, so naturally, she harbors a little suspicion. It doesn't register much externally, though. She just seems...curious. Or perhaps confused.
"What happens if you win?" Orihime asks. It's not like they can pay him the $4,000 he's offering as a prize since he didn't enter formally. But that's not the /real/ issue. She's worried that he might steal the champion's soul. Wasn't that how the Outworld worked?
The ring dangles, held loosely, still proffered.
For Luminous' interest, the ring is rendered primarily in silver, though it may be an alloy or another type of metal for the unearthly way it sparkls. Limned in soft facets and dark crimson jewels, at a galnce it is hardly the bauble of some con artist, despite all possibilities to the contrary. For the pirate queen's interest.. the ring looks every bit as expensive as it is claimed to be. Perhaps more, fenced properly.
Many things native to Outworld had a terminal value much higher outside their realms simply because merchants.. do not manage very far into the plane.
"Do not overlook the benefit of prominence," the sorcerer notes, his tone light, educational and directed primarily towards Sailor Jupiter, though despite this he hardly favors her with a glance. His words have some meaning to Inoue's question as well. Carefully chosen as they are. "It pleases me to consider this tournament interesting. I will be watching, of course, though I obviously .. cannot be obliged to participate directly. You see.."
Shang Tsung looks over his shoulder, in the direction of the other assembled who speak and have interest.
"For many of you .. regardless of circumstance, we will be the reason you fight." Outworld is the place where nightmares are forged. "Consider it a favor, a show of.. good faith, to amuse our Emperor. When I issue that challenge, we will find if your tournament has truly decided the best."
The ring gleams strangely as Tsung turns it up under the light.
"My word. You have nothing else to fear, for the moment. You've only to accept."
Sapphire doesn't employ her paltry Bureaucracy Charms toward the task of appraising the item - she knows it looks damn valuable, and that's all she needs to know. She'll get a more accurate appraisal when it is in her hands.
As she knows it will be soon enough. Sanji? What kind of a wimpy name is that?
Orihime doesn't like this. There's probably something she's missing here, or it's entirely possible that he's lying. However, stirring up the further wrath of the emperor of Outworld would /certainly/ be a terrible thing, and she gets the impression that he'd raise a lot of hell during the tournament matches if she declined.
Phew... Orihime exhales, lowering her head for a moment as she considers. "Okay," she says. "But only if the champion is okay with it, too. If they don't want to fight, they won't have to. I'll give this to them so they can choose for themselves," she says, reaching out to accept the ring in the palm of her hand, curling her fingers around it. And if they refuse, she'll send it back to Shang. Through the mail. She really has no desire to go into Outworld again if she can help it!
(OOC) Shang Tsung says, "LOL"
(OOC) Shang Tsung says, "I can only imagine a mailman trying to get into Outworld."
(OOC) Shang Tsung says, "That would be one tough-ass mailman."
(OOC) Luminous Sapphire says, "Paperboy."
(OOC) Orihime Inoue says, "It would be the happy mailman from Mr. Rogers Neighborhood."
(OOC) Orihime Inoue says, "Special Delivery! *music*"
(OOC) Luminous Sapphire says, "Can Outworld stop the Paperboy!? I think not!"
(OOC) Orihime Inoue says, "Ah ha ha ha! Paperboy. <3 I should do something with him tomorrow."
(OOC) Shang Tsung says, "He'd get the package and look at the address sternly. Hime doesn't know how Outworld addresses work so it's just titled 'Shang Tsung's House, from: Hime (sry!^^;;)' "e_e ... it's time.""
(OOC) Shang Tsung says, "And then his jeep goes tearing through the Outworld gate at top speed with rock music blasting."
(OOC) Luminous Sapphire says, "God, Shang, your visuals alone XD"
Hmm, he does have a point there. Sailor Jupiter nods thoughtfully at the remark directed at her, only to raise a curious eyebrow at the 'reason you fight' comment. Ah, so they are bad guys! If its a one-on-one fight the smiling one wants, then he picked the right sailor soldier for it! A gloved hand slams into her palm, just as another thought dawns on her: She has to win the tournament first.
Luminous Sapphire doesn't even think about having to win; she assumes she will, because that sort of thing is a foregone conclusion.
Welcome to Solar Self-Delusion; enjoy your stay!
At least no ghosts seem to fly out when Orihime takes the ring.
When it is taken, Shang Tsung seems...satisfied, to say the least. "Then we have a deal." He bows slightly as a matter of manners, one fist going into his hand in a martial tone to the effort. Then, one hand snaps up. "This is enough for today."
His guard shift at once.
Then they turn and leave.
It doesn't seem to bother him. In fact, which the guard gone, they enjyo a certain level of intimacy that takes precidence over the grand courting that Shang Tsung is so fond of. Contrasts are occaisionally art in and of themselves. Relevance defined, he continues in a far less grandiose, more expectant tone. "I look forward to seeing you all again." As he turns, this seems primarily for Jupiter and Sapphire's benefit--though it is obvious all have enjoyed his brief spectacle, there are certain of those who seem more interested than the rest. It's hardly something one can hide from the sorcerer's eyes.
"I'll be watching. Fight well for me.. and give Seatlan my best."
If not stopped or ambushed, Shang Tsung will make his way out, to where his guard awaits him.
... But not before sampling a free cheese along the way.
He frowns. Too bitter..
Orihime doesn't relax until several moments have passed, once Shang Tsung departs. She still has a bad feeling about this! Hopefully she made the right decision, though. At least he wasn't mad about saving Reize, although his parting comments were a little creepy. She uncurls her fingers to look at the ring, picking up nothing special about it...spiritually, anyway. In truth, she's worried.
But this is a party that she's hosting, and far be it from her to bring things down. For now, things are safe enough, and there are sandwiches to be eaten. "Well that was a surprise, wasn't it? Ha ha!" Orihime laughs, rubbing the back of her neck. "I guess the winner gets $4,000 now, if they really want to fight Tsung-sama."
You should've stayed away from the cheddar.
Fight well for you? Sailor Jupiter hmphs and shakes her head with a smile, "I'll make sure you'll get a good show." Sorry, Ichigo!
WHERE: Relief Society Community Center
WHEN: Saturday Evening, May 12, 2007
WHAT: An opening ceremony is held for the first Relief Society-sponsored martial arts tournament. Orihime explains the rules and announces the upcoming matches. Peleps Fals and Alicia Winston give hearty (but long) speeches on fighting. After people convene for sandwiches, an unexpected guest arrives to up the ante.
The basketball gym of the Relief Society Community Center is, for the moment, transformed into the assembly room to host the opening ceremony for the martial arts tournament. Red and yellow streamers line the walls, punctuated with clusters of white balloons. Rows of padded folding chairs are placed before the stage, where a single podium sits in front of a thick red curtain. A banner, stretched across the front of the stage, reads 'Welcome Competitors - Martial Arts Competition 2007' in dark blue letters.
The banquet hall, on the other side of the community center, has been prepared for the after-ceremony social. It wasn't stated what was being served, but there are some pretty good smells filling the hallway. Including bacon.
Orihime waits behind the curtain for the crowd to arrive. Several seats are taken so far, and it looks like there's going to be a pretty good turnout! She glances down at the papers in her hand, once more going over her notes, and the placement of the fighters to see who ends up fighting who. If this event has the kind of success the Steel Chef competition did, she'll definitely host it again next year.
One of the first arrivals at the opening ceremonies is none other than the newest recruit herself, Alicia Winston. She's dressed in her military uniform, looking rather proud and ready for today. She's not exactly a big martial artist per se, but she does know some fighting arts from her military training, and she's always looking to polish them up a bit.
Alicia arrives quickly, pausing to admire the sights and sounds, her gaze immediately drawn to the big banner. Apparently this is truly going to be a good one this year, Alicia can tell.
Another early arrival is Peleps Fals, in full Dynastic Immaculate regalia. He wears a long blue robe that goes almost to his feet, embroidered with stylistic, abstract designs in black. His hands are tucked together in the sleeves, and the only tattoo visible is the one that crawls up his neck and covers his bald head - blue, stylized. He is smiling widely, making his way slowly to a seat to wait. He /is/ a big martial artist - an Immaculate monk with no need of weaponry. He is quiet, for now, planning what he /will/ say. What a great oppurtunity to preach the Immaculate cause.
Lera of House Cathak arrives and looks around the room, for a moment. She peers around at the empty seats, before she swings along and takes a vacant seat. She sits down and sighs, before looking around. "They certainly did a lot of work on this place," she murmurs. When she does see Fals, though, she gives him a smile and a wave of her hand. Then, she rests back in her chair.
Luffy is one of the first to arrive. Mostly because someone mentioned that there would be free food involved. 'Free' and 'Food' are on top of Luffy's list of 'Favorite Words', so naturally, Luffy makes a note to show up. He's not dressed snazzily - in fact, he's wearing what he always wears - and slowly makes his way for the chairs, moving to a sit. He's psyched, actually, and he looks around to see if there's anyone he recognizes. This should be interesting.. mostly because he's eager to see who he'll be fighting first.
And Luffy's eager to figure out where the food is.
Vash isn't skilled in the area of martial arts, but he respects the message that the tournament is trying to put forth. The smell of bacon...just a bonus. He just hopes no one does a weapons search on him! It's ironic, even contradictory that he himself carries a gun. The pacifist would've left it behind decades ago if he could, but all things considered it just wasn't an option. Maybe someday though... For now the blonde man enters and takes a seat in the back, so that his height and hairstyle won't be an obstacle for any of the other spectators.
One of the older members of the Relief Society makes her appearance as Yuna looks about with an soft smile on her face. This is becoming such an great turn out, she hopes that Orihime is well pleased with this. Bells softly hitting each other announces each step she takes. She smiles as she notices one of her Guardians and waves in hopes that Luffy sees her. "Luffy!"
After everyone's filtered in, and the clock reads four, the curtains are drawn back and Orihime appears. She smiles as she steps forward, setting her notes down on the podium and reaching to adjust the microphone. "Good evening, and welcome to the opening ceremony of the first Relief Society-sponsored martial arts competition. I'm happy to say that we have a lot of wonderful, talented people sign up for this event! You're in for a real treat!" she winks. "The fights will be broadcast thanks to the Interplanar News Crew of Channel 4, so you can catch them there, or attend the events personally. Spectators are always welcome."
She flips over the page, continuing on. "First of all, here's the list of the rules. They're pretty simple, and if you have any questions, feel free to ask. First of all, no weapons. Natural-generated power is okay, though, like chi, magic, and alchemy...as long as it's not used to /form/ a weapon. Weapons are considered anything that cut, slice, or otherwise cause lethal harm to an opponent. Blunt objects are okay." Hopefully there won't be too much quibbling over that one; if there are questions, she supposes she'll take them on a case by case basis. "The match begins when the referee blows the whistle, and ends when an opponent is either unconscious, or yields the match. The winner will advance to the next round. Once all eight competitions have been completed, the next contestants will be announced. Fighters have one week to complete their matches. Those who are unable to fight...we know emergencies happen!...should let me know, and a substitute fighter will be asked to take their place. If a substitute is unable to be found, the fighter gets an automatic win."
Another page is flipped over, and Orihime pauses to clear her throat. "The first place winner will receive $1,000 and the championship title. Second place obtains $500, and the two third-place fighters get $100 each. Trophies will be awarded to all of these ranks, and as thanks for participating, everyone will receive one of these commemorative medals!" Orihime beams, holding open a small black flip-box bearing a gold-plated medal hung from a blue satin ribbon. "Any questions?"
When Luffy hears his name, he blinks and glances back. "Yuna!" He grins, lifting both arms and waving them ("Hey, arms down, buddy!") to indicate where he was. He motions for her to come sit with him, just in time to sit down for the curtains rising! We don't want to be rude and steal Orihime's spotlight, after all! So, Luffy listens to the rules. No problem. He doesn't use weapons. His body is his weapon! Gwahaha! So, he doesn't have any questions.. pertaining to the tournament, anyway.. and stays quiet to let others ask questions.
Peleps Fals considers several questions - notably, whether the fact that his hands are, in fact, rather more lethal than some swords is a problem. Ultimately, however, he decides - no, they are not. He'll just try to avoid permanently crippling his opponents.
The Dragon-Blood returns Lera's wave with on of his own instead.
Also in the audience is one Kazuki Mutou, who is of course listening intently to the speech from Orihime! Then again, he always seems to listen intently, with his thumb and index finger cupping his chin as he does so. Of course, it's important for him to listen to the rules, even if they mean he's at something of a disadvantage... But that's actually /why/ he's participating. Training, training. That's what this is, to him. But does he have any questions? ....No, no he doesn't!
Seems everything's clear! Orihime exhales in relief. Good! "All right! Now for the best part - the matches!"
A white screen slowly drops down from behind, onto which is projected the names of the fighters and just who they'll be up against. It doesn't seem to be in bracket format, and there's a reason for that: it ensures that Orihime can pit the most evenly-matched fighters together after each round. As for the names? Here you go.
Ling Yao VS Kazuki Mutou
Peleps Fals VS Monkey D. Luffy
Donatello VS Han Su Li
Rukia Kuchiki VS Renji Abarai
Alicia Winston VS Cathak Lera
Sailor Jupiter VS Ichigo Kurosaki
Sanji VS Luminous Sapphire
Edward Elric VS Xykon
"There you have it!" Orihime gestures with a sunny smile. "Good luck to everybody! We'll end the ceremony with remarks from our two guest speakers for the evening, who are also competing in the tournament. First we'll hear from Peleps Fals, followed by Alicia Winston. Let's give them a hand!" Orihime applauds, backing away from the podium with a smile aimed at the Exalt until she comes to a rest in the stage's left wing.
First, Rei needed some help with spring cleaning at the shrine.
Then, Usagi wanted to go shopping.
Then, she was distracted by the Sailor V game at the arcade again.
So, its not Sailor Jupiter's fault at all that she's late to the opening ceremonies. The Soldier of Thunder, Courage, and Running Real Fast finally makes it through the door and slides into a seat, huffing and puffing all the way. "Am I too late," she wheezes, collapsing onto the chair in front of her with a final gasp. "I had to, uh, fight off a youma on the way!"
Yuna does indeed move to where Luffy was and goes to sit next to him. She listens to the rules and smiles. She kinda wished to be a part of it but she isn't a good fighter. Perhaps next time she will participate. She goes to smile gently up at Orihime and joins her in the applauds but after offering Luffy some Besaidian treats. Must keep him fed, you know?
Fals notes his opponent - and decides he has a /distinct/ advantage this round. He's fought and defeated his opponent before, and will be prepared for Monkey's tricks. Still - it will be difficult. Regardless, Fals rises from his seat, making his way to the podium. He takes a moment to look around the crowd before he begins to speak.
"Greetings. I am Brother Fals of House Peleps, as you know. I have been asked to speak to you about why I fight, and the purpose of fighting. I will not speak to you about why /I/ fight. Instead, I will tell you a story."
Fals pauses, closing his eyes and taking a deep breath. "Long ago, in the dark times of Creation, the world was ruled by the vicious Anathema. They were cruel and merciless, fighting for power and pleasure. They denied the Will of Heaven, they had nothing but evil within their hearts. But the Will of Heaven could not be extinguished. Instead, there came into the world five souls, perfect manifestations of the Great Elemental Dragons. Five souls which burned with purity, justice and the Will of Heaven."
This seems to be a fairly long story.
Woo! Food! Luffy is briefly distracted, but manages to hear who he has to fight. Peleps Fals? He's fought that opponent before. It takes him a moment to remember, but it all comes back to him. Now that he knows how his opponent fights, he'll be better prepared to win this round. He glances over at Yuna, still chewing at his food, before looking back and listening to Fals' story.
Oooo, a story... Orihime perks with interest. Tales of good versus evil are always fascinating, and Fals has, admittedly, the kind of voice a storyteller /should/ have. She sits up a little straighter, listening keenly. This should be good!
Fals pauses dramatically - and then continues. "These five were the greatest beings ever to exist. The greatest who ever will. I will tell you of them. The first of them was a warrior from the frozen North, Mela. She was beautiful and cunning, with a speed of thought and action that was born of the whistling wind. Mela saw the depredations of the Anathema, and the tyranny with which they ruled the people of Creation, and she said, 'This shall not be.' Mela found the wisest and most powerful of the humans of Creation, and she taught them to unlock the power within themselves, to fight with not just body, but their very Essence! But that was not all Mela did. Mela, the Petitioner of Clouds Accordant to the Call of Battle, led her army, the first warrior to strike a blow, the last warrior to strike a blow. She moved as the wind, seeking out the worst of the Anathema in the North - Might of Seven Thunders, the mightiest of the Forsaken - an Anathema whose blows were such they sundered castle gates, and his wife, Ten Thousand Hidden Eyes, cleverest of the Tricksters - an Anathema who could seduce even a toad to cut off its own tongue. Mela saw them upon the field, and with the fury of the storm she ran to them, upon the spot devising the great martial art that today we know as Air Dragon Style. Using the power of her fists and her nature, she slew her foes, striking down first Ten Thousand Hidden Eyes, freeing from her thrall the myriads of enchanted slaves who served her - and then using her great intelligence to outsmart Might of Seven Thunders, striking him where he was weak, in the hidden spot upon his back where he had no armor and his skin was not as iron. Both fell to her might - but fame and glory were not why she fought."
Makoto made it for... the end of the meeting and storytime. And while she loves a good romance and/or adventure story, this one isn't starting off in either of those directions. Its a good thing someone left a program nearby so she could read up on what she missed.
Like the tournament pairings. The senshi's eyes light up like a pair of green LED's as the program floats to the ground. "Ichigo... Kurosaki," she murmurs to herself. (She's polite enough not to interrupt Fals, even if she's completely blowing the creation myth. We're not getting tested on this later, right?) "Well, a girl's gotta start somewhere..."
There is an exaggerated groan faaaaaaar in the back.
Someone mutters bitterly about Water-Aspected blowhards, but that part might be too quiet to be readily heard.
Yuna couldn't help it but to smile as Luffy eats the treats. She goes to focus on Fals story and listens with rapt attention. What a interesting story. She bets the old man (as she can't remember his name right now) would love to hear this. But nonetheless, She listens quietly and politly, giving him her full attention.
Fals, between breaths, glares into the crowd to determine where the groan came from - but he has Performance dots! He will not be unprofessional in his speech. Taking another deep breath, he continues.
"The second of the great ones was from the burning South, a man named Hesiesh. He was wise and frugal, never using his great power and always looking to solve his problems with the strength of but a man. He looked upon the cruelty of the Anathema, the pain which they caused to all they touched - and he said, 'I will not let this happen.'"
"Hesiesh raided the Anathema from the deserts of the South, striking at their weak spots and never resting. At last, in a great battle, his loyal raiders faced the worst of the Southern Anathema - the cruelest of the Blasphemous, Blinding Sky-Lit Eye, whose dark words called legions of the dead to rise from the southwestern seas, defying the will of nature and of Heaven, and the most vicious of the Ogres, her husband, Startouched Claw of Fury, who summoned forth dark demons of pain and cruelty to torment the mortals in his power. Hesiesh saw them, and he devised in that moment the whole of what we know today as Fire Dragon Style - yet he did not use its magic."
"Indeed! Such was the power of Hesiesh that he was able, with cunning and wit, to slay his foes without using magic. He struck Blinding Sky-Lit Eye with his mighty blows, defeating her before her dead servants could tear him asunder, and in slaying her, returned their souls to rest. As the Startouched Claw of Fury attempted to call his demonic servitors, Hesiesh struck him down, preventing the demons from being called to more acts of cruelty and torture, for even creatures such as they did not deserve that fate. Then, Hesiesh kneeled, surrounded by the dead - and in one great act, he released every bit of magic he had not used in his lifetime. That is - all of it. In a great conflagration, every fallen body burned to a pile of ash, that the dark spirit of the Anathema could not possess them from the grave - for such was the dark intellect of these two Anathema that, between them, they could have done it. But Hesiesh did not fight for money or for excitement."
Muttering falls suspiciously silent.
Fals smiles beneficently as he pauses again. Time for Part Three. Fals isn't sure why the muttering has stopped, but hey, anything good is worth having happen. Maybe it was a Stunt bonus or something. Deeeep breath...
"The third of the five was from the center of Creation, the hub of civilization. He was Pasiaps, a man of strength and wisdom. He was slow to anger and patient with all people - but the Anathema of the Pole of Earth were such vicious rulers that Pasiaps stood and said, 'No more.'"
"Pasiaps gathered the people to him with his quiet words and his humble nature, and he forged them into a weapon against the Anathema, just as he forged a sword. The worst of those he fought were these - the darkest of the Unclean, a cold, merciless man named Gaze of Burning Brilliance, whose mind was so keen that it was thought he could read the minds of others - and his wife, the most unpredictable, vicious Moon-Mad, whose name was Fifty Blades Dancing. Pasiap led the rebellion against them, and in the courtyard of their palace, he confronted them - and in that moment, composed the whole of Earth Dragon Style."
"Pasiap was slow and patient - and as Fifty Blades Dancing attacked him, he weathered her blows like the very Imperial Mountain itself - and as she tired, he struck once, with the power of the landslide. She crumpled before him - and her husband attacked, summoning his mightiest spells. They were for nought - the skin of Pasiap was as stone, and his blows were as powerful as earthquakes, and inevitably, it was Gaze of Burning Brilliance who fell. But when he was done, the cities were ruined - and Pasiap began his work, rebuilding them and teaching his fellows the arts by which they might make buildings strong. While he, like all the Immaculate Dragons, had a chance to ascend unto Heaven, he put it off for centuries, that he might help his fellow men. But Pasiap did not fight for power or to rule."
Lera listens to Fals' story, though her expression remains hard to read. She seemed satisfied with her match; she even smiled. However, she knows this story - a child of the Realm has heard it before, and she doesn't have to be converted. She remains there, quiet, and listening.
Sailor Jupiter goes back to browsing through the program. Luna ain't got nothin' on this guy...
There is a long, annoyed sigh somewhere in the crowd.
It might or might not be right near Lera.
Fals continues. His story is /awesome/, thank you. It is /very awesome/. So awesome that the long version can take a full day. Or more.
"The fourth of the five was from the wooded East, a cunning forest chieftain named Sextes Jylis. Sextes Jylis saw the pain caused by the rapacious, cruel Anathema, and he raised his bow and said, 'Such things shall not happen.'"
"Sextes Jylis was a shadow in the forests, his nature letting him hide in the pulse of life and death in the woods, the proper way of things. The worst of the Eastern Anathema were these - the most cunning of the Wretched, Vision of Darkness, whose arrows spread poison and disease where they touched, and her husband, the cunning, cruel Nightthief known as Stealer of Breath. Sextes Jylis fought them, leading the people from bondage to fight their cruel masters and teaching them to heal the diseases spread by the Anathema. They finally met in battle when Sextes Jylis's beloved home forest was set ablaze by the last two Eastern Anathema - the worst two of the region. Sextes Jylis met them, and on the spot he devised Wood Dragon Style."
"His bow and fists flying, Sextes Jylis was unharmed by the poisons of Vision of Darkness, healing himself with a touch and striking her down. As Stealer of Breath came upon him, Sextes Jylis whirled, revealing that his foe's stealth had been no help, and sent an arrow through his heart. Sextes Jylis was not done, however - he dedicated his life to replanting the lands burned by the Anathema, spreading seed wherever he went, healing the scars of Creation just as he had torn out the cancers. But Sextes Jylis did not do this for glory or for greed."
Luffy is.. well.. bored. His head is resting on Yuna's shoulder now, a trickle of drool slipping free of his lips. Zzzz..
There's a muted snicker somewhere in the crowd. "Heh heh. He said 'sex.' Heh heh." "Huh huh huh. Yeah."
Sadly, Luffy isn't the only member of the audience who's taking a nap. Long stories are hard to pay attention to! Kazuki's head lolls back on his chair, likewise snoozing. Hopefully though, most people present have better manners than Mutou or Monkey.
Yuna is anything but bored but blinks as she feels a head resting on her shoulder and goes to look towards Luffy. A soft smile comes across her face and reaches up with a hand to pat the poor pirate's head. She has an idea to wake him up but would do so after the long story. It was quite fansinating.
Somewhere on the MUSH, Lancer has connected.
The story's /almost/ done. Really. We swear.
"The fifth and last of the five was a woman - no, a /girl/. Danaa'd from the West, a sailor's daughter, still a teenaged girl yet wise beyond her years. She saw her father and the people of the West beaten and mistreated by the Anathema, and she stood and said, 'This ends now.'"
"Danaa'd struck out at the Anathema, to free the people of their ensorcelled slavery and to destroy their piratical empires. Despite her youth, she led the unenchanted people of the West in rebellion, sailing the vast Western ocean to fight the Anathema, the worst of whom where the Deceiever named Beautiful Whispers, who could charm a cloud from the sky and talk a man into slavery, and his wife, the Frenzied called Seven Oxen Stand Tall, whose children were an army of vile beastmen. They thought to stop Danaa'd by taking her father, but Danaa'd stopped them, facing them upon their flagship. As she stood before them, she devised at once all of Water Dragon Style."
"Striking them with the fury of the sea itself, Danaa'd was able to shatter the magics of Beautiful Whispers, breaking his hold upon the enslaved masses and slaying him, his own blood rising against him. She struck down Seven Oxen STand Tall, slaying the mighty Anathema with the fury of a hurricane and scattering her army of bestial children with the rage of a tidal wave. It was Danaa'd who was chosen among the five to lock away the souls of the Anathema, to prevent them from escaping the Underworld, and she did it without complaint and with skill never shown again in any living being. But Danaa'd did not fight for fame or for power."
Fals places his hands together. "You can see why the Five Immaculates fought. They fought for /justice/. The power to fight, the power to strike down a foe - this power is not to be taken lightly. Used wrongly, it is a tool of torture, a vicious perversion of the Will of Heaven. But that is why we must exist. Why we must emulate the great Immaculate Dragons - we must fight for justice and for freedom, that all might follow the true Will of Heaven, not be corrupted and enslaved by the Anathema and those like them. That is what it is to be a warrior. Any man can lift a fist or a sword and /fight/ - but a true warrior knows when he must do so, and prays that is not often. A true warrior is not strong of body alone, but also strong of soul."
Now that's exactly the kind of message Orihime was hoping someone would deliver. Her expression warms as Fals makes his closing remarks, and she shifts forward to applaud. "That was wonderful!" she exclaims enthusiastically. "Thank you very much, what a great story!" It also brews an idea for a future event... She'll work on that later. "Peleps Fals, ladies and gentlemen," she beams, moving to the podium. "Up next, we'll hear from Alicia Winston." Again she begins to clap, and moves away to her former spot.
Yuna goes to clap her hands at Fals as it was such an wonderful story. She goes to look towards Luffy and goes to think of a way to wake him up. If he is anything like Wakka then this should do that trick. She goes to move her lips near his ear and spoke a few words softly into his ear. "Food is up."
Lera, too, applauds for what she heard; it was a familiar story. However, she perks at this announcement - her first opponent will be speaking? She raises one eyebrow, and waits for a moment. She wants to see just who it is she will be up against.
Fals retakes his seat after a low bow, smiling. He got to preach and only one person heckled him! That means his preaching is /working/ and obviously several people will convert to the Immaculate Philosophy.
/Awesome/.
Alicia has been listening intently all along, but has shown no signs of falling asleep. In fact, as soon as the speech is finished, she's one of the first to snap to her feet and start applauding loudly. Apparently, she really enjoyed that one.
Sailor Jupiter has better manners. Sort of. After she turned her program into an origami kitty, she found herself without anything else to use as a distraction. So she's zoned out of the meeting, her eyes staring ahead vacantly while she daydreams of enjoying a picnic with someone who initially resembled her sempai. One she's snapped out of once Orihime starts clapping. "Huh? Oh! Uh, yay?" Clapclap.
Luffy awakens immediately when someone whispers something about food. "Eh? Huh?" He glances around slowly, groggily, perking up suddenly. He's awake! Really! "Food? Where?" He glances around quicker now.
A very soft chuckle escapes from Yuna's mouth at how fast Luffy woke up to the mentioning of food. She reaches into one of her sleeves a pulls out a fish snack-thingie and offers it to him. "The story is over, Luffy. It's the next speaker's turn."
As soon as Peleps Fals has finished and has sat back down, Alicia decides to take her turn as the next speaker. She calmly walks up to the podium and clears her throat. "Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Alicia Winston, the newest recruit to the Relief Society, and also a member of the Vital Situation-Swift Elimination agency. I am speaking to you today about anti-gun violence, which may seem kind of hypocritical because I was once forced to utilize fire arms in order to protect my own country, but even then, there was nothing I could do about that.
A pause. "First, a bit of history. I am from a country in the Mediterranean Sea area known as Lukano. We were a peaceful nation along with our neighboring country Astigos, but things would soon change for the worst. One of the territories of Astigos, known as the Zagorias Federation, wanted to claim independence and become their own country. However, Astigos did not fully support this, and as a result, the Federation invaded the island of Astigos, and then launched an attack on our own country.
Alicia pauses to take a drink of water before continuing. "At this time, my brother, Daniel, had formed a small army force known as the 'Lukano Liberation Army.' I wanted to help out, but Daniel was skeptical about my involvement because of my gender. However, when my brother and his troops were betrayed by one of our own men, I had no choice but to launch my own investigation into the matter. It was at that time that I learned that the Zagorias Federation had actually deployed tactical missiles which could actually strikes neighboring territories in Europe and Asia, and it was then that I realized this was a bigger threat than even the Lukano Liberation Army could handle."
Here we go again. Sailor Jupiter goes back to daydreaming, only now the boy she's sharing a bentou with looks something of an amalgamation of Monkey, Kazuki, and Fals for some reason.
Fals listens respectfully - to do otherwise would be hypocritical! And Fals is only a hypocrite in /select situations/, generally involving the Anathema. Who aren't here.
/Are they, Blue Dolphin?/
Alicia takes another drink of water before continuing with her speech. "With the aid of VSSE agents Alan Dunaway and Wesley Lambert, we eventually found out that Giorgio Zott, the leader of the Zagorias Federation, had been working in conjunction with Wild Dog, a criminal mastermind who never seems to die, in his effort to take over our country, and then apparently would use the missiles as his method of gaining control of surrounding nations. That is, of course, if we hadn't stopped him. After that, the VSSE was impressed with my skills, and offered me the chance to train like an agent. I must admit that it was tougher than anything I'd been used to as a soldier, but in the end it was worth it, and I became an agent within the VSSE, but it's more of a 'per diem' basis thing.
Alicia clears her throat again. "But that is not why I am here. I am here to talk about anti-gun violence. It is one thing for the military and police units to carry a firearm with them for the purpose of defending themself. Unfortunately, the reason they need this type of defense primarily is because they are defending against people who feel they need to use firearms to get what they want to, because nobody will listen to their words, whether they're of demand or reason. People think that carrying a gun makes them invincible, and that if anyone should stand in their way, they'll face the wrath of their gun.
"And even then," Alicia continues, "A lot of people aren't carrying guns just for bargaining purposes in general. Some of them are into using drugs and use their guns to hold off against the law, as well as to rip off other drug dealers and buyers so they can get the awful substances they consider to be one of, if not the most, important things in their life. There are other reasons too, mind you, but the fact remains that gun violence is something we don't need."
Blue Dolphin sure isn't here, no sir, nosirree!
Ignore the fact that one of her known aliases is on the fight roster, and that someone with bright blue hair is in the crowd, still muttering acidically while sitting in the general vicinity of SOMEBODY.
Alicia takes another sip of water and wipes her lips before taking a deep breath and continuing again. "I know that it's not possible, at least not anytime soon, to be able to remove guns and their violence from our existence, but we can take steps to cut down on it. Most gun violence comes from conflicts, especially when they get heated. When it comes to conflicts, my personal motto is, 'Words, Not Weapons.' Try to talk it out with whoever is causing you conflict, and if things get heated, try to take a breather, and come back when things have cooled off. Try to encourage other people you know to follow this motto as well.
"Secondly," Alicia continues, "There are times where you will need to defend yourself. There is no doubt about that whatsoever. However, you should seek out proper training in self-defense so you'll be better educated on the right times and techniques for these situations. In some cases, though, like if you're being mugged, it's best to just do what the assailant tells you to do, since your valuables are never worth your life. If they do attempt to harm you, though, then you should attempt to strike, but only when it's safe to do so. You don't want to attack someone who doesn't intend you any harm and end up adding fuel to the fire. And lastly, remember that if you must own a firearm, please make sure it's in a safe spot that persons who aren't supposed to be using it, especially children, can't get to it.
"And lastly, please remember my motto, as I feel that if more people heed it, then it'll have an impact on violence in general, and not just on gun violence." A pause. "Thank you."
Orihime applauds politely, smiling her thanks at Alicia with a nod of her head as she steps forward. "A wonderful statement, Winston-san, thank you very much for sharing it with us. Let's give her a hand!" Orihime encourages further applause for just a few moments, before she gathers her papers in hand. "On behalf of the Relief Society, thank you all for coming. Good luck to the participants! This is going to be a /fantastic/ tournament. Now let's eat!" she claps her hands together.
The screen with the names of the contenders moves back into the ceiling, and the doors to the gym swing open. "This way!" the usher calls, directing the gathered crowd towards the banquet hall. Once there, people will find tables covered in white cloth, bearing large trays of sandwich triangles. Salmon, tuna, egg salad, ham, BLT's... There's a wide variety to choose from! There's also a row of individually-bagged chips, platters of cheese and crackers, veggie and fruit trays, and a large bowl of orange-flavored punch. There are only a few tables here, pushed to the side, the floor open for mingling and socializing.
Yuna listens with rapt attention once more and like before but this time, she stands to offer applause. She will wait until the room clears out a little before going to eat but in the meantime, she looks about for the speakers.
Peleps Fals applauds as Alicia finishes. He wasn't sure what it was all about, because guns are Not Something He Understands - but hey, it was a good speech. Kind of short, by Dynastic standards, but good.
Dynastic Standards say that Fals had a fairly short speech.
He stands to go over to the food afterward, filling a plate with salmon. Mmmmmmmm, seafood.
Lera gives an applause, as well. She didn't quite understand it - guns aren't really in her world, and thus lost on her. Besides, she is now some sort of crazy superbeing who eats gunshots for dinner. She stands up, though, and falls into the line that inevitably forms. As she does, she looks at Orihime. "Oh, thank you!" she says to the host. Ignore the way they look similar! "It really is rather nice."
"Yay?" Sailor Jupiter applauds again on cue, wondering if she's going to have to go through this again if she wins the tournament. Heck, what would happen if she herself was asked to give a speech! Gasp! Maybe she can just give her slot to Usagi or Minako and let them wow the crowd. They're good at that.
As for the free food, the senshi passes and instead, after signing a few autographs, heads back to good ol' Tokyo. Food and mingling is nice, but there's evil to fight by moonlight that's not going to get fought if she stays here and gets fat! That, and she has a high score to re-take on the Sailor V game...
Yuna blinks as she watches the senshi move pass her and tilts her head at her. "Thank you for coming." She calls out to Sailor Jupiter before going to try to find someone that already doesn't have someone to talk with.
That is roughly about when the second ceremony begins.
They come in double-file, a small group of hard-eyed men in dusty robes, carrying weapons that look as if they were plucked straight from the courts of Hell itself. They do not seem rowdy--they don't make eye contact with a single denizen of the ceremony. No, their weapons--naginata, to those who would recognize them--are enough to transmit purpose. Purpose itself defines their roles. They are guards.
And at the center, a man who should be at the least, known for his own purpose.
He walks somewhere near the center of the group as they file into the banquet hall just after the main group at sudden, wearing his traditional hard travelling leather coat. It seems like Yuna has something. The sorcerer seems to have encountered her first.
"If you could please direct me to a Miss Inoue," Tsung asks, his voice thick and pressed like his clothes, and his smile all too accomodating. "We've... something of our own to add to the festivities."
They would have to arrive just as Makoto was heading for the door. The senshi immediately steps aside as the procession marches past, her brow furrowed in puzzlement at what the heck's going down. Curiousity - and an impending sense of Bad Things About To Happen - get the better of her, and Sailor Jupiter follows the group back to the main hall. However, she stays to the background for now, folding her arms with her best 'You Best Not Be Steppin' frown.
Indeed, where IS the hostess of this function? Why, she's in the kitchen, now coming out with a tray of dessert sandwiches. Wait, dessert sandwiches? And what would those be? Slices of white bread, slathered with a combination of sweet bean paste, chocolate syrup, bananas, honey, and/or raspberry jam. She's not sure if they'll go over well, but even if they don't, she'll be glad to eat them and bring home the rest. Ling will polish them off with ease. "Here we go!" she announces happily, dusting off her hands once the tray is set on the table. "Fals-san, thank you again for the story. It's just the sort of thing we were hoping to share!" she beams, turning towards the Exalted.
Fals, who has been - well, around, eating fish, really, nods to Orihime. He glances at Shang Tsung as he speaks to the girl. "I am always happy to speak of the Immaculates. I can only hope that I swayed some of them to truly contemplate the story - perhaps even the Immaculate faith. I will see at our next service...but if it has helped in any way, I will be proud." He pauses. "I believe that man wants to speak with you - but be careful. His entourage do not appear to be - trustworthy, even if peace is enforced here."
Yuna blinks as someone speaks up to her and goes to look towards the sorcerer and smiles. "Lady Orihime?" She goes to tap a finger to her lips. "I believe I know where she is, please follow me." She begins at once to head towards the kichen. "Might I ask what you like to add to the festivities?"
The sound is unmistakable.
Amongst Shang Tsung's personal guard, when one foot lands, many land, in a perfect lock step. The only dissenting shoe among the whole affair is a tough rawhide boot, that of Shang Tsung. Now he nods graciously to Yuna and, with a single two fingered gesture, directs his escorts to follow. He smiles faintly at all assembled. There's a woman over there with a distinct 'do not cause trouble' frown.
Tsung's feigned innocence is legend for both its potence and disingenuity.
To Yuna, he is arguably more direct, at the very least. "Ah~," he allows, with a more general gesture for patience as he follows. "Curiosity, my dear. Something to be satisfied in due time. We wish not to end up like that fabled cat, do we?"
He is gracious enough for he and his host to stop about half and a quarter the way, just when they are within sight of the hostess and Fals. Yuna is free to continue walking, but it would be strange to do so. This is enough, and is a basic function of political hospitality--whether it is a declaration of such or a demand of such is what remains to be seen. They cover most of the ground. However, it is to Inoue--and anyone interested of course, to come to meet them, judging from Shang Tsung's 'come hither,' espressed in gesture and, most tellingly, one glance. Anything else may be taken as hostility. Of course.
Nevermind that the gathered weapons, as a score of staffs strike the ground at the exact same instant to settle a score of blades into a 'ready but idle' position' do that well enough on their own.
Call it a cultural difference.
Yuna tilts her head but then lets out a soft chuckle. "A fable cat I might become if I have to wait to see." She lets out another soft chuckle and smiles as she catches sight of both Orihime and Fals. She smiles and waves towards the both of them. She does stop walking once Shang Tsung does and smiles towards him. "There she is." She will stick about to see what he wishes to speak with her about.
Luminous Sapphire is probably in the crowd somewhere. In fact, she is - slipping forward through the masses. She HAD been interested in food, but the appearance of a diabolical warlord with his entourage of fully stab_OK persons...well, it doesn't look good.
She clenches and unclenches her hand, knowing the rules of the Hub but worried she may have to intervene anyway.
Normal people would be terrified by an army of that magnitude, startled by its apparently gregarious leader, but...well, for a Solar Exalt, taking on an army of superelite shocktroops and their charismatic sorceror-warrior leader? Just means it must be Sunday already.
"That would be nice!" Orihime beams in agreement with Fals. Since she's already quite aware of what the afterlife is like, she doesn't really have a reason to subscribe to anyone else's religion. But she can support them just the same! Maybe she'll attend a service to make him happy. If its sermons are all about big glorious battles, then at least they'll be exciting sermons!
However, it isn't necessary for Peleps Fals to warn Orihime. She's already looking in the direction of the sorcerer with a faintly worried frown. Repercussions for the rescue she'd organized? Gosh, she hopes not...that's one person she doesn't want to hold a grudge! The non-violence security measure bolsters her confidence, though, and when Shang gestures, Orihime steps forward. She's not really sure what to say, though. Her gaze flickers over the assembled troops, then moves back to Shang Tsung's face inquisitively.
Makoto was trying hard to keep an intimidating stare, but she's not finding much success right now. Not with the precise military maneuvers or that oh so innocent smile from the group's leader. A chill runs down the young girl's spine, shivering her ponytail and the collar of her colorful fuku. A bead of sweat twinkles as it rolls down her sidelock, though her only reaction is to bunch up even further in her disapproval. She knows she can't allow her fears to take over, but, deep down inside, Sailor Jupiter is still a young and naive junior high school student.
She's been killed before. It wasn't an experience she would like to repeat.
"Then observe," Tsung asides to the summoner. "Observe, and learn."
Jupiter, Yuna, and Fals--these are all the subject of Shang Tsung's residual interest--caution is such a situation is something not to be discounted on either side of what is obviously a tense affair. As such, all three, and various others, including Sapphire, are accounted for directly by members of Shang Tsung's personal guard, but also enjoy the faintest hint of the sorcerer's attention direct. He is, after all, a master of the social gathering.
Were it any other time, were it any other place, were it any other circumstance, one could imagine Shang Tsung to be merely a front man, an empty politician at best, or merely a cheerful Asian with an oily glance. However, there is a distinctly immoral quality attributed to his half-lidded glance, an interest that he fixes Orihime with that .. cannot, by definition, ever be entirely official.
There are men and women both who have gone entire lifetimes without being looked at in that way and been the better for it.
"You'll forgive my facade, Miss Inoue," Tsung begs assiduously. "Amongst other purposes, a necessity of my station. You understand," he explains, waving across his guard. "As it has been no doubt a long.." A glance at Yuna, "..and tiring day for you all, I will keep this brief. When I heard of your ... tournament, I must admit, I was intrigued. However... I found the stakes to be... not quite interesting enough. Though, by design, I cannot expect your ... group to ever condone something for a proper tournament," the Grandmaster of Mortal Kombat suggests, "..allow me to show a favor of providence."
Shang Tsung slides a gleaming ring off of his left hand.
"From here, the offer is simple. With this single favor, I will more than quadruple the prize offered for your tournament's participation. To increase its interest." A pause. "..Merely in exchange for the simple right to challenge the champion your tournament decides." He holds out the ring.
That smile is all too predatory.
"A simple thing. Do you accept?"
Luminous Sapphire watches with interest.
Especially when the ring comes into play, because she's a pirate queen and she likes things that glitter, even when they're being held by evil warlord sorcerors.
Yuna smiles and nods at his words but then frowns slightly as she watches Orihime's reaction to this man. She knows the girl well enough to know that she gets along with just about anybody and whomever makes her worried is a bad guy. Those mismatched eyes flutter back towards Shang and watch him carefully. The ring was really shiny but who knows what this man would want in return. She goes to take a couple of steps towards Orihime and tilts her head at her. "What do you think?"
Sailor Jupiter's apprehension goes right out the window with the revelation of the shiny. "All of this, just for a chance to fight the winner?" Here she was worried that something evil was afoot, and all Shang wanted was to join the party. She even feels a little embarassed about over-reacting now, and she blushes faintly while glancing around to find something to look away at. Oh, hey, a sleeping Kazuki!
Orihime looks hesitant, her eyes falling to examine the ring. She doesn't really want to touch it, shiny as it may be. He really doesn't care about the prisoner rescue? It seems much too good to be true, so naturally, she harbors a little suspicion. It doesn't register much externally, though. She just seems...curious. Or perhaps confused.
"What happens if you win?" Orihime asks. It's not like they can pay him the $4,000 he's offering as a prize since he didn't enter formally. But that's not the /real/ issue. She's worried that he might steal the champion's soul. Wasn't that how the Outworld worked?
The ring dangles, held loosely, still proffered.
For Luminous' interest, the ring is rendered primarily in silver, though it may be an alloy or another type of metal for the unearthly way it sparkls. Limned in soft facets and dark crimson jewels, at a galnce it is hardly the bauble of some con artist, despite all possibilities to the contrary. For the pirate queen's interest.. the ring looks every bit as expensive as it is claimed to be. Perhaps more, fenced properly.
Many things native to Outworld had a terminal value much higher outside their realms simply because merchants.. do not manage very far into the plane.
"Do not overlook the benefit of prominence," the sorcerer notes, his tone light, educational and directed primarily towards Sailor Jupiter, though despite this he hardly favors her with a glance. His words have some meaning to Inoue's question as well. Carefully chosen as they are. "It pleases me to consider this tournament interesting. I will be watching, of course, though I obviously .. cannot be obliged to participate directly. You see.."
Shang Tsung looks over his shoulder, in the direction of the other assembled who speak and have interest.
"For many of you .. regardless of circumstance, we will be the reason you fight." Outworld is the place where nightmares are forged. "Consider it a favor, a show of.. good faith, to amuse our Emperor. When I issue that challenge, we will find if your tournament has truly decided the best."
The ring gleams strangely as Tsung turns it up under the light.
"My word. You have nothing else to fear, for the moment. You've only to accept."
Sapphire doesn't employ her paltry Bureaucracy Charms toward the task of appraising the item - she knows it looks damn valuable, and that's all she needs to know. She'll get a more accurate appraisal when it is in her hands.
As she knows it will be soon enough. Sanji? What kind of a wimpy name is that?
Orihime doesn't like this. There's probably something she's missing here, or it's entirely possible that he's lying. However, stirring up the further wrath of the emperor of Outworld would /certainly/ be a terrible thing, and she gets the impression that he'd raise a lot of hell during the tournament matches if she declined.
Phew... Orihime exhales, lowering her head for a moment as she considers. "Okay," she says. "But only if the champion is okay with it, too. If they don't want to fight, they won't have to. I'll give this to them so they can choose for themselves," she says, reaching out to accept the ring in the palm of her hand, curling her fingers around it. And if they refuse, she'll send it back to Shang. Through the mail. She really has no desire to go into Outworld again if she can help it!
(OOC) Shang Tsung says, "LOL"
(OOC) Shang Tsung says, "I can only imagine a mailman trying to get into Outworld."
(OOC) Shang Tsung says, "That would be one tough-ass mailman."
(OOC) Luminous Sapphire says, "Paperboy."
(OOC) Orihime Inoue says, "It would be the happy mailman from Mr. Rogers Neighborhood."
(OOC) Orihime Inoue says, "Special Delivery! *music*"
(OOC) Luminous Sapphire says, "Can Outworld stop the Paperboy!? I think not!"
(OOC) Orihime Inoue says, "Ah ha ha ha! Paperboy. <3 I should do something with him tomorrow."
(OOC) Shang Tsung says, "He'd get the package and look at the address sternly. Hime doesn't know how Outworld addresses work so it's just titled 'Shang Tsung's House, from: Hime (sry!^^;;)' "e_e ... it's time.""
(OOC) Shang Tsung says, "And then his jeep goes tearing through the Outworld gate at top speed with rock music blasting."
(OOC) Luminous Sapphire says, "God, Shang, your visuals alone XD"
Hmm, he does have a point there. Sailor Jupiter nods thoughtfully at the remark directed at her, only to raise a curious eyebrow at the 'reason you fight' comment. Ah, so they are bad guys! If its a one-on-one fight the smiling one wants, then he picked the right sailor soldier for it! A gloved hand slams into her palm, just as another thought dawns on her: She has to win the tournament first.
Luminous Sapphire doesn't even think about having to win; she assumes she will, because that sort of thing is a foregone conclusion.
Welcome to Solar Self-Delusion; enjoy your stay!
At least no ghosts seem to fly out when Orihime takes the ring.
When it is taken, Shang Tsung seems...satisfied, to say the least. "Then we have a deal." He bows slightly as a matter of manners, one fist going into his hand in a martial tone to the effort. Then, one hand snaps up. "This is enough for today."
His guard shift at once.
Then they turn and leave.
It doesn't seem to bother him. In fact, which the guard gone, they enjyo a certain level of intimacy that takes precidence over the grand courting that Shang Tsung is so fond of. Contrasts are occaisionally art in and of themselves. Relevance defined, he continues in a far less grandiose, more expectant tone. "I look forward to seeing you all again." As he turns, this seems primarily for Jupiter and Sapphire's benefit--though it is obvious all have enjoyed his brief spectacle, there are certain of those who seem more interested than the rest. It's hardly something one can hide from the sorcerer's eyes.
"I'll be watching. Fight well for me.. and give Seatlan my best."
If not stopped or ambushed, Shang Tsung will make his way out, to where his guard awaits him.
... But not before sampling a free cheese along the way.
He frowns. Too bitter..
Orihime doesn't relax until several moments have passed, once Shang Tsung departs. She still has a bad feeling about this! Hopefully she made the right decision, though. At least he wasn't mad about saving Reize, although his parting comments were a little creepy. She uncurls her fingers to look at the ring, picking up nothing special about it...spiritually, anyway. In truth, she's worried.
But this is a party that she's hosting, and far be it from her to bring things down. For now, things are safe enough, and there are sandwiches to be eaten. "Well that was a surprise, wasn't it? Ha ha!" Orihime laughs, rubbing the back of her neck. "I guess the winner gets $4,000 now, if they really want to fight Tsung-sama."
You should've stayed away from the cheddar.
Fight well for you? Sailor Jupiter hmphs and shakes her head with a smile, "I'll make sure you'll get a good show." Sorry, Ichigo!