-Disclaimer: Not 'directly' related to World of Warcraft Lore, and is past-tense material, leading up to his recruitment. Language, heroic action, deep emotion, and an all-out war awaits. Thus, Raven's story begins.

In the magical city of Dalaran, where many travellers and adventurers reside within the floating city; at the very epicenter of Dalaran, where the fountains and multiple benches ease the woes of the weary, a dark ushering followed by a hush as a simple appearing Elf walked to said fountain. There, he simply gazed upon the surface of the waters, as the surrounding greenery withered and decayed; as the magic in the air rapidly depleted. Eventually, the waters and grasses normalized, and were fresh once more. Unsatisfied, the Elf stood and took a seat at the bench nearest to him. His dark mind swarmed with thoughts as he, once again, recalled the becoming of his being.

It was before time began, where the Light had been just freshly concieved. A time of Ancients, not of mere mortals. Where only the strongest and well known deities thrived. One in particular stood out further than the rest. It was not evil, nor was it good, as was believed. In truth, it was only one thing: Balance. It had the power to regulate whatever mortal race came to existence, merely through whispers of it's dark tongue. It was not demonic, nor was it holy. It was raw power incarnate, set out to do one thing: to kill all in its way.

When the great sundering occured, it had been cast into exile along with other evils. The ancients didn't believe such an entity should be in action, for the mortals of Azeroth must flourish. So for thousands of years, tens of thousands, it laid dormant. In time, it strengthened itself, and became more resistant to the ties that binded it. When the portal to Outland had been reopened, it struck with devestating fury; releasing itself from the Maelstrom. But with such great exertion, did it's power finally begin to wane. It had removed itself from its physical body and remained only a spirit while the body died. With no shell to return to, the entity known as the Raven searched for a new host.

Meanwhile, in the forests of Quel'Thalas, a new adventurer began his journey. A scrappy, young Blood Elf, he began his quest to quench the thirst of his magic withdrawal. He'd only been too young to fight during the Sunwell's corruption, and after the reopening of the Dark Portal, began his journey through the dark arts as a warlock. But, it appeared he was still much too young, as even the smallest Mana Wyrm sent him into a panicky fear. In spite of himself, he watched as other, older Blood Elves surpassed even the most rigorous tests and became Blood Knights or other such honors. Alone, and in despair, he tapped into whatever dark power he had: and felt a disturbance. It was slight, but he was sure he'd found something. A source of power, a demon, a magic well, he wasn't sure. But in the small sliver of time he'd felt it's presence, a chill overcame him. Overcome with his newest finding, the young warlock searched for whatever became of such raw, magical power.

The Raven, weakened further since the parting of it's body, hovered ghastly about Quel'Thalas; it had been searching for a new host that could satisfy the goal of balancing Azeroth's mortals. However, it had only gone on a short while. The darkness that kept it alive was diminishing, leaving strands of it's nature behind. It was falling apart and would soon erase itself from existence. All of a sudden, it was halted by an Elvish Paladin.

"Cease your advance! Darkest of dark beings, you shall be purified!!" he bellowed. The Raven did not care, and tried to rid itself of such nuissance. However, it was far too weak and was suffering just to move about. It braced itself for the end, as the paladin brought up his glimmering sword. The Raven cursed the Light, even when it was forced to be used by the Blood Elves, it was the Light nevertheless. And the Light could really be a pain.

Our young Warlock had stumbled upon a scene. Master Kelerun Bloodmourn, a Blood Knight Champion, had readied himself for a delivering blow to a sweltering mass of pure darkness. He was instantly drawn to this mass, as it appeared to have power beyond anyone's imagination. Only the blind could not realize it, and as our Warlock began to assume what was happening, did he realize that the Paladin Champion was blinded by the powers of the Light. The Warlock became desperate, he charged for the darkness. He did not care whether it was malicious or not; he only wanted to gain its power so that he may surpass his peers. He dove in front of the Paladin Champion, and with the merciless judgment of the Light, was struck along with the Raven.

In that very moment, did something unthinkable occur. With the power of the Light, and a freshly slain Warlock, the Raven returned. He posessed the Elf, both becoming one as both were slain in an instant. In death, they were reborn. Suddenly, the ground trembled. A dark ushering followed by a hush, as a simple Elf rose from where he was slain. Opening his eyes, did the Paladin Champion realize what he'd unleashed. The Warlock, The Raven, The Balance. In a cold, dark whisper, more icy than the chills of Northrend and darker than Arthas' own black heart; was two words from the lips of the Raven.

'No Future'

And with that, the Paladin Champion was lifted. Small scratches appeared on his body, then burns, even magicks unthinkably performed from a mere Warlock, but was done so. In turn, he realized in turn what was happening to him: Every pain he'd recieved up to that point was occuring again. From childhood adolescence to where he stood, he was dealt blow by bloody blow. Even heartaches from sweethearts he'd abandoned in following the Light's path, even the sickness he'd been afflicted with when he was a small boy, but one pain above all drove him to madness and back: His thirst for magic. Everyday of wanting more magic accumulated in one very moment and without warning, collapsed his mind.

Unsatisfied, the Warlock stood, eyeing down his opponent, or lack there of. He turned, then made his way to Outland, to begin a long-needed purge of animals, demons, and any other such mortals. The deity was guided by the consciousness of the Warlock; who'd forgotten his real name. He had thus become the Raven, and with his great power, had he begun to purge mortality.

"Wait a second. Does this mean I have to go do all my quests over again? Man, this warlock thing wasn't a good idea. I should have been a Priest like Mum wanted..."

-End of Chapter

My first real Role-Play write-up! Kinda was thinking about Raven's past (What's part of it) and wanted to encorporate the viciousness of warlocks with the ultimate power of old gods and stuff, but still wanted to keep him in check: Now that the deity's a mortal, he has limited power but still enough to tear apart a Paladin.
Of course, I tend to be all dramatical and stuff, that and being really new to writing RPs, so any suggestions on style or anything would be appreciated. You can also comment on how cool/horrible it was depending if you liked it or not. Seeya later, folks.

As Raven stared into the pools of arcane waters, a young tauren visited him by sitting on a bench nearby. She wore the traditional conqueror’s garments from her and her parties’ vanquishing of the dreaded Naxxramas and the mysterious Ulduar raids. She was a little short for a tauren female, but not by much. She had a black coat that shined as brightly as her timid blue eyes. Like all tauren, she was built strong and hardy, but like all tauren women, shapely and fit. In Raven’s standards she was a big girl, as expected. But since he was a little tall and she was a little short, they almost saw eye to eye. If only it were spoken in a literal sense.

“Raven, you’ve been here for hours.” Temmie always spoke in a soft, sweet voice. If not rather deep and husky, all tauren sound like a deep secret. It’s only her voice that The Raven can snap out of any dwelling he might be in. Whether it be magic, or some sheer chance of fate that she’s the one and only person Raven could actually like; of course, the chance of that happening is approximately 27,500,000,000 to 1 as solved by Rhonin, leader of Dalaran, and that’s a rather big number compared to the dwindling number of Azerothians what with the whole killing everybody phase they seem to have. But I digress, Temmie and Raven have a special bond in the strands of fate. They’ve only begun to realize their grand importance in the great scheme of things.

“Raven,” She spoke sternly. “You’re supposed to be somewhere this afternoon.”

He snapped out of his staring contest long ago with the pool and was trying, unconvincingly, to pretend he were again. He didn’t loath Temmie as usual living beings. But she sure got annoying when the time came. All in all, he believed her to be a thorn in his side; with or without her druid magic. In fact, she has been like that ever since that fateful day.

It was in the Barrens where he felt he should balance the scales in his own terms. He’d just made his way to an oasis when he heard a woman scream in fright. It was from a deep, husky voice, but in a way, sounded quite pure. He dropped what he was doing to investigate, leaving a couple bodies in his wake. Soon enough, he saw what was happening: A Tauren druid was being held captive by a Centaur pack. How that came to be, he had no idea. And he instantly knew she were a druid because her magic smelled like maple leaves. Then he realized he hadn’t eaten and the smell of maple was making him hungry. He tried to back away, but to no avail. His stomach let out a ferocious growl, alerting every centaur in the camp.

In the ensuing fight, it took nearly all his magic energies to bring them all down, only to see that the druid was gone. He looked towards the nearby oasis to see that she was being carried off into a rock, shaped as a skull. He recognized the zone instantly, the Wailing Caverns. He gathered his strength and decided to take the plunge into the not-so-familiar realm. Many raptors and thunderhawks barred the path at first, but then he reached a clearing. There, he met another druid. He explained he was some follower of another, bigger, druid named Naralex, and that he was confined in stasis in some sort of sleeping spell. Regardless, The Raven went onward. He had to find the druid he was after. It was too bad so many other druids had to perish before he got to her. The dungeon was taking its toll on Raven, so many monsters and fanatic druids were finally slowing him down. He wondered ‘Why, by the nether, would a centaur bring a tauren here?’ as he ventured onward.

Eventually, the caverns that once held many, held few. Having caught no sign of the centaur, he was about to give up when he heard an echo. He perked his long elven ears to the sky, hoping to catch wind of this voice, for he was sure he’d heard some like it before. It sounded muffled up, as if she were bound or covered. Then, in a great relief, he heard her again and rushed to where the sound was coming from. It was way back, back to the chamber where Naralex slept. There, he found the girl and the chief centaur with her.

“Come on then, you woman!” It bellowed, as it gathered its spear and sword. He rushed at Raven, rushing to gut him where he stood, but his spear pierced darkness. It was an illusion; Raven had appeared behind the Centaur and climbed on its back. It roared with a mighty fury, bucked and shook, but Raven held on, clasping at its neck. “I’ll cut off yer head!” The massive chieftain bellowed. Raven only grinned an evil grin.

“Sounds like a plan.” And with that, Raven burned away the flesh that kept the chieftain’s neck attached to its head, with unnecessary force. It sent blood and chunks of flesh everywhere in front of the centaur, even catapulting the head into the waters of the cavern. The chieftain didn’t even make a sound. The heap of a headless body fell to the ground, making an awful heavy thump as it did. Raven dusted off his robes, and eyed the tauren girl. She had been stripped of every piece of armor and was left in her undergarments; her face looked wet with tears as she began to realize what the centaur had in store for her. Raven pitied her, so he decided her life might as well end. Her balance had been forever changed; this experience would only drive her to madness. She looked up at him as his arm rose to her head. But before he could do anything, she got charged towards him. It startled him, he thought she was shocked beyond thinking, let alone charge him. He braced himself for the impact, readied himself for the final blow. But there was no defining impact. Instead, she’d grappled her arms around his waist, her head buried in his stomach. Raven thought she gouged his stomach out, but saw that her horns grew side to side. He took a step back, but she only held on tighter. All he heard from her was,
“Thank you.” In simple Thalassian.

She broke down right there, crying near uncontrollably and shaking more than leaves on a tree. Raven knelt down, and she hugged him around his neck. Her long, black mane brushed the side of his cheek. He didn’t know what to think. Here he was, massive killing machine, and he was pinned by this big woman. He felt embarrassed, to be sure, but felt he should somehow comfort her. He reached around with his only free arm, and patted her back. His other arm was supporting the two, by staying firmly on the ground. Unfortunately, she shifted, causing discomfort to said arm.

“Umm, girl?” She looked up at him. Obviously, both were tired, and their faces showed this. She didn’t understand his language either, to make matters worse. He realized this and mustered up his knowledge of tauren language. “You’re breaking my arm.” She looked down, and then looked up. Then she got it, and instantly drew back. He massaged his arm a bit, but then she got courageous. She took his arm and using her druid powers, healed it with a soothing sensation. Raven didn’t know what to think or say, he felt a lot better than when he normally would go on a killing spree. He looked at his arm again, catching a faint smell of mint from it. The feeling spread to his entire body, as if he were suddenly rejuvenated. He got up, and bowed his head to her. She smiled a sweet smile. He then turned and made his way outside. Of course, the girl picked herself right up, and began to follow him to the outside. She was surprised by the number of dead, and by only one man. She saw the other druid near the entrance and eyed him like she’d never seen him before, which caught Raven’s eye. He stopped and spoke to him in Thalassian:
“Next time you hear your kind’s women screaming, grow some tauren balls and get her your own damned self.” He was irritated to say the least. Both tauren just looked at him festering and dwelling, looked at each other, then back at him. The girl, then quickly followed after Raven, hoping to not lose him.
It had been three years since that day, just a little before he became manifested in the world of Azeroth. Three years, and she still followed him with loyal vigor. Still, his lifestyle was boring. She’d often go out of her way to appease her young, adventurous nature. Raven came to accept her, and when she spoke to him, eventually returned her companionship.

“I’m busy.” He spoke gravely.

“You’re always busy.” She smiled.

“I’m busier today than yesterday.” He spoke again, in the same tone.

“You said that yesterday too.” She cocked her head to the side. “You wanna do something or not?” He looked up from the well and made a face at her. She stuck out her tongue at him. He glanced at the well again, and got up.

“Alright then. What do you want me to do?” He walked with her, both side by side.

“For one, quit looking at that wishing well. What’d it ever do to you anyway?”

“It looked at me funny.” He tossed his long hair back in makeshift pride.

“Everything looks at you funny.” She laughed.

-End of Chapter

In this, I'd wanted to give a little backstory on Raven's new friend, Temmie. That, and I wanted to lighten the mood, the first chapter was too dark for my taste. A little humor there, a dash of lighter banter here, and viola. There's chapter 2.
Maybe now I'll start thinking of a villain, Raven's too good for a big horny centaur. I also really like Temmie in later chapters, she's so darned cute.

A
for effort.

Gotta say I really appreciate the time and effort you put into this. Impressive. Good stuff. Do more.

Raven's appearance was only slightly different from normal Blood Elves. He had the same figure as the males; well-built, dashing, smart looking. It's always a surprise to his enemy have them find out a dangerous power lurks within him. Just a normal Blood Elf, except for one defect: He had a blue-ish tint in his eyes. Not the energies that flow from an elf's eyes, but the actual eye itself. Anyone who could see that, would know he was different from the rest. That and he was almost constantly changing hairstyles to 'match his mood.' That was neigh inexplainable.

Raven has always been a precautious character. He holds within him vast superior knowledge of every little thing, a power unmatched to any living thing which the many herds of cattle he’s gone on frequent rampages against know all too well, and is dashingly handsome with his hair the way it is. He only has two problems; Temmie, and conservative tendencies. How this makes him a precautious fellow is simple: do you really want to know what you get next Winter’s Veil, or do you really want to get killed that way, or do you really think that outfit makes his butt look big? These are some of the many, if not life changing, questions The Raven asks himself each day. Sure, he has issues, but at least Temmie’s there to help him out. Ergo, Temmie and conservationisms are his worst nightmare. Makes his life boring.

“Raven… explain to me again, why you needed a dress to match mine? I'm only wearing a ” Temmie sighed at the sight of him. A manly elf in a lovely black dress; it made rogues want to gouge their own eyes out.

“Simple, dear: I wish to torment those I deem unworthy to fully appreciate natural beauty.” Deep down, this was true. It was neigh embarrassing to go around in a wizard’s robes, but to show some leg while you were at it was downright criminal; to the wearer and the crowd. “That and you said I looked good in it.”

“It was a joke.” She huffed. She was embarrassed too, by the antics of Raven; surely no one in their right mind would walk side by side with such a flagrant Elf. But, she cared for him, and thus she walked with gritted teeth. “But why in Dalaran?!”

He simply shook his head. “Look around, everyone’s wearing dresses.” Clearly, everyone was in their traditional adventuring gear; not everyone was a spellcaster too. Even she was in a simple pants and top. She had to assume the only reason for his behavior would be that he was drug induced. At least.

“You drank some sewer elixir, didn’t you?” He laughed.

“Should be wearing off soon, but I still wanted to match.” She thought about it for a second. Where would he put that on first? It dawned on her instantaneously.

“You wore that in the sewer, didn't you?” She could only imagine what the
Alliance, Goblins, and Horde representatives thought at the arena. He shook his head, tossing his hair behind his shoulders.

“Level 10 prostitute, in the making.” She stopped for a second.

“What?” Clearly, she’d never heard that phrase; although, being with Raven, she’d heard something like it. Truth is, Raven has knowledge from even parallel universes under his belt. Or lack thereof in this case.

“Nothing, something from somewhere else, I guess.” He had to admit, he was being sort of random. She eyed him up and down. “Fine, I’ll get into my robes. But first, some shopping is in order.” She sighed in dismay. At least they were doing one of her favorite pastimes. Being a druid born and raised in the Moonglade, she’d always loved going to big cities just to take in the sights. Even her druid roots couldn’t stop her from enjoying the growing societies of the Horde. With Raven, however, she had to keep him from doing something absurdly wrong. Like at the tailor shop, for instance.

“Hey, want to see if-“

“No. Absolutely not. Pink is NOT your color.” She smiled with a feeling of triumph over the zealous Elf. He pouted, and then put the dress back. He didn’t get too down from Temmie’s authority over him. He was but an entity, thrown into the world of Azeroth, and he was having a tough time fitting in, what with the racking kill count. Temmie was the one person he truly didn’t want to get rid of. Well, for long periods of time anyways. He was a loose cannon, and she was a timid flower; if he had any sense of compassion or knowing of a thing called friendship, they’d be the best things for each other. Unfortunately, he doesn’t know any better; he’s too caught up in his act of 'restoring balance' to notice any real feeling he may have. But, ever since tagging along with Temmie, he knows now that there is more to just killing small to monstrously large animals; Like the act of buying cake.

“Hey, you want to try the chocolate one this time?” He’d ask her. She frowned and looked at the variety.

“I told you before, I don’t like chocolate. Let’s get the conjured mint!” She bounced in excitement.

“You don’t like chocolate because it makes you jiggle.” She scoffed and he eyed her figure. She crossed her arms and leaned towards him.

“You shut up! Nothing the training dummies can’t fix.” She smiled that smile of hers and he couldn’t refuse at that point. He bought one and a half cakes, and gave her the whole one. Raven got changed, using the shadows as a necessary changing curtain, and they sat down at a table in the Filthy Animal, where they ate their cakes. Neither would say much; they didn’t have many fascinating stories to share. Raven would usually go on about some killing spree or the eternal darkness of waiting for the exact moment to break free, while Temmie would go on about the magnificence of trees and the purity of water. Both of them knew their best story was soon to come.

“Raven… I think I should have gotten the chocolate cake.”

“Why do you say… never mind, go, quick.” Guess she still isn’t used to conjured foods yet. Still, another uneventful day for the two.

-End of Chapter

Trying to expand more on Raven's character; mischievous would be my favorite adjective for him in this chapter. Can't help but think it's sorta ballsy to have him know real world stuff in Azeroth, but I think it'll get better as it goes along. Having a bit of fourth wall stuff is always fun. Need to get that conflict rolling next chapter, these two seem to be on a luxurious routine. I guess Temmie's cake was a lie, too.
Eh, guess that sums it up. I'll cut down on these comments, too. Dunno if they're helping or if it's just my talking out loud habit. Ooh, look: Pretty clouds, weee.

Then, the unexpected happened. Raven started to lose consciousness. He began to feel very drowsy; confused, he grabbed at the cake. He caught the slight fragrance of sleeping potion in the icing.

“D-dammit…” was all he could muster before sprawling on the floor. Before he was out cold, he remembered that Temmie had eaten the same cake. While his body was weakened, he used his dark mind to try and gather his surroundings. However, something was interfering with his senses. It had to have been time.
A much greater time later, no one could recall, he felt himself wake. He got up, with a start, and checked if he was alright. Stiff, groggy, and cold was the first thing to mind. He found Temmie nearby, to his relief. She was wearing some ancient garb; maybe some old uniform, or armor from old times. He found himself in the same attire, both similar colors of azerothian soil. He looked in his surroundings. Metal bars that prevented any escape, a single mat for a bed with a blanket and cold stone floors. This was either a prison or home, he couldn’t tell which. Using his shadow power, he tried to erode the bars, only to have it recoil in his face.

“Gah, magic bars. Of course.” He muttered. The commotion woke Temmie, and she let out a gasp. Raven noticed her, and put his hand on her shoulder.

“Raven, where are we?” She asked. Raven wasn’t sure himself. He didn’t answer her, but put his finger on her lips. He pointed over yonder, past the bars. She got up, and set her hand on the bars, and suddenly knew what Raven meant. Looking down, there were a near endless number of cells, honeycombing all around them. It was as if there was no ceiling or floor.

“My guess would be one big containment unit.” Raven told her.

“Huh?” Temmie looked behind her, to see a solid wall, with Raven leaning on for support. She had a thought. “You think there’s only this wall of cells?” He simply nodded. “What kind of bizarre magic is this? How’re we getting out?” She said, upon inspecting the bars and lack of floor.

“Simple: when they want us out.” Raven spoke grimly. He sat on the mat and began to tap into dark meditation.

“’They’?” Temmie asked, to no avail. “Raven, who’s ‘they’?” She saw what he was doing, and sat down beside him, leaning on his shoulder for warmth. She stifled back a tear as she realized there’s no way they’re going home.

A great deal of time later, the cell door opened. Raven opened his eyes from his stupor, looking at Temmie who’d awkwardly fallen on his lap. He simply got up, letting her fall to the floor, which got her awake in an instant. A set of guards, clad in very heavy armor and spears, walked towards them. They stepped to the side to reveal a garrison of troops single file behind them. It appears that while they had slumbered, a way was made access to their cell. Temmie hid behind Raven as he stood to meet the visitors.

“Azeroth-Deity Raven, and guest, step forward.” The menagerie of guards said in unison. Unnerved, Raven took a step forward. Temmie followed in suit, huddled close to Raven.

“Bow down.” They ordered, as each turned their heads to eye him down. Not wanting any conflict, which he thought was the best thing to do at a time like this, he kneeled.

“Presenting, Deity King: Lord Andorthall.” They all bowed in unison, lowering their weapons. Raven looked up ahead of him, where he saw a rather large man flying to them. He wore golden capes, one on each arm and two on his back. His silver boots went to his knees, which in turn tucked in ocean blue pants with golden seams. He prided his large belt, which carried the symbols of the universe; much how Ulduar had looked back on Azeroth. Instead of arming himself with sword or shield, he wielded a large staff, twice as long as any man, which he carried on his back, upright and with a banner tailing it. His golden hair matched that of his mail armor, which had silver gloves. He wore no emotions, his bright green eyes looked down on others, and his dark tan skin shined as much as his armor. It was as if this Deity King was a product from angels. Temmie, who had been cowering behind Raven, gazed at Andorthall with utmost attention. When the Deity King landed on the ground, he made a step to the Raven, only to have him stand in defiance. The guards got up, ready to slay those who would go against the order.

“Hello dad.”

With those two words ushered a sweeping silence, a flinch in the guards, a twinge in the eye of the Deity Lord, and a surprised beyond natural belief Temmie; the latter of which nearly fainted on the spot. Composing themselves, the guards were, again, at the ready; only to be shushed by Andorthall. A wave of his hand sent the guards away from the prison.

“Hello, boy. I see you brought company.” Andorthall laughed heartily, “She’s a little ‘big’ for you now, isn’t she?” Temmie got flustered, and wanted to just slap the man, but thought it was best not to. She didn’t like those guards. Neither Raven for that matter, for keeping her in the dark like that.

“Well, I did have to assume a smaller form. After all, it’s not like I can be my old self after what my first prison did to me. By all means, go on to Azeroth, see how they treat you; such dreadful manners.” They shared a small laugh. Temmie was further confused.

“Yes, well, it’s not like we can all have our own global conquest that easily, is it? By the by, she’s not a deity I remember creating…” Andorthall eyed her up and down.

“Well, she’s not. She’s an Azerothian. A Tauren to be exact.” Raven looked at her as well. She felt violated by the two powerful men eyeing her down, and in those ghastly clothes she was wearing, she couldn’t take it anymore. She slapped the two of them with a cry. The Deity King seemed unfazed, Raven however was on the floor because of her strength.

“And… all Tauren women are that touchy?” He looked down at Raven, not the slightest bit concerned of his wellbeing.

“No, no…” Raven coughed. “She was with me for a good majority of her life.”

“Ah, that would do it then. She’s as feisty and reckless as you.” He looked at Temmie again, which she was taken aback. He smiled and took her hand with his, and instantly felt a warmth flood her entire body. Suddenly, she felt relaxed, almost like the time she met one of the Naaru.

“Very nice to meet you. I take it Azeroth is in nice shape?” He greeted. She closed her mouth and tried to speak clearly.

“Umm, n-nice to meet you too. Yeah, Azeroth seems… fine.” It wasn’t often she met another man that was taller than she, other than Tauren males anyways.

“I just wanna ask you… why are we here?” With that, the King let go of her hand; and began to levitate. Raven got up and saw that the King had looked awfully troubled.

“Deity Raven, Azerothian Temmie… It brings me a great dread to have you two here. But, if you must know; it’s time for a tradition not well known to lesser creatures. Deity Raven, I’m sure you can tell her you’re both here on such short notice.” He turned his back on them, leaving Temmie to face Raven. He didn’t look pleased and neither did she.

“Raven, what are we doing here?” She mustered, anger and fear rising. Raven looked at the Deity Lord, then at Temmie, the ground, her hoof, back at the Deity Lord, then back at her.

“It’s a tradition to bring the all the Deities together for the one thing older than any of us: The Tournament.”

-End of Chapter

*Cackles like Crazy*
The Tournament! Sounds great, huh kids?
Looks like they're gonna have some fun wherever the hell they are.
Next chapter, we're gonna meet some people.

As they walked down the majestic corridors, Temmie and Raven listened to Andorthall explain what the Tournament was. Temmie didn’t get all of it until the end; she was too busy taking in the grand scenery. It was more exotic than Ulduar, and at least ten times better to look at.

“… So, simply put: it’s all the deities around the entire universe gathered today to do battle to see which world gets my blessings.” Wrapping up a long winded speech, more so than battle plans at the Trial of Champions back on Azeroth, Andorthall stopped in front of a door in a hallway filled with many, many similar doors. “These are your chambers; you will share rooms with four other deities. Just so you know, they’ll be part of your team. There’s three Neuron-Deities, and one Gaia-Deity.”

“Planets Keebos and Earth? Aren’t they a little…” Raven started.

“Young?” Andorthall smiled. “Quite so; you’ll be leading them, Azeroth-Deity and guest.” Smiling at the both of them, he made his leave. They both looked at each other then shivered. Neither knew how the new, foreigners would greet them. Hand shaking, Raven opened the door to be the receiver of the loudest outburst in his life.

“YOU SON OF A BITCH!!! Get your ass over here!” Roared a foul-mouthed man.

“Goldman, calm down; he didn’t mean to-“A soft, delicate woman voice assured him.

“Oh no, I’m not gonna listen to that again. He knows what his bitch-ass did! Gimme back my music thing before I knock you out so bad, your mom don’t recognize ya!!” The same man hollered. Raven took a step in to almost be the one hit by a chair flying across the room. It shattered on impact on the wall, leaving a neat dent where it struck. He looked in to see four beings: The roaring man, a one armed man, a dark individual, and a big breasted woman. ‘What a troupe…’ Raven thought. ‘And I’m going to be team leader? Why not kill me now?’

“I’m sayin’ he did it! He’s a liar and a thief and a ugly thing!” The one they called Goldman, the Gaia-Deity, was foul-mouthed, not too smart, but was very strong, even though he didn’t look it. He wore long clothes, with matching belt, boots, and gloves; tied in with large V-emblem designs on his chest and on top of his full helmet. He had no identifiable hair, skin, or facial features. He looked very agile, but after seeing him throw that chair the way he did, is very strong despite how thin and fine tuned he looked. He wore mostly gold colors, with silver details on his pants and arm sleeves. His black gloves looked like some sort of super grip; whatever he grabbed, he was sure to have good hold. Other than that, he had a loud voice, with a much needed attitude adjustment should he ever go to Azeroth. Or anywhere for that matter.

“I didn’t do anything of the like; and speak with a little more finesse. You’re embarrassing to even let near my sister.” The one armed man was one of the three Neuron-Deities; of which, looked feral, sleek, and brave. Neuron-Deities have similar shape to normal two-legged species on Azeroth; differing on their peculiar head shape designed for aquatic or aerial speed. They had a rounded triangular shape, like a gnomish torpedo, with long pointed ears, slim eyes, and hair on the back of their heads, traditionally. Other than that, their animalistic qualities gave them agility, strength, and speed along with their quick thinking minds. They’re a very noble, heroic race: protecting family and friends before performing duties.

“Goldman, Keetz, let’s just all get along, okay? We can find his, whatever, later.” Although uncommon to be as well-endowed as she was, she seemed to be the mediator of the group. Quarrels between the Humans and the Neurons were rather frequent, but settled relatively quickly. Young races always had a knack for getting into trouble. While Humans were around on multiple systems in the universe, and are still considered young by other deities, Neurons are only some of the newer races to be unleashed. Their history only goes back a couple thousand years, it’s surprising they evolved to a higher status so quickly. Although, with many new races, there are unknown potentials they possess.
Raven and Temmie decided to interrupt the ‘family argument’ by saying hello.

“Greeting, everyone!” Temmie smiled.

“All hail the Sin’dorei.” Raven boasted. Instantly, the fighting stopped as all eyes were on them. This made them nervous, but they kept their nerve. Goldman was the first to speak of the group.

“All hail the what?” He asked, moving to Raven.

“Sin’dorei. It means, ‘Blood Elf’ on Azeroth.” Raven smirked, as he bowed. When he was about to get up though, his head met Goldman’s clenched fist slamming down on him. Letting out a small yelp, he was flat, face-down on the floor.

“Dumbest. Thing. I’ve. Ever. Heard.” Goldman said, then he walked to the couch, jumped, and landed so that he was already comfy. Raven, however, was out cold. Temmie, not quite realizing what just happened, let out a similar yelp, and began to rejuvenate him. A couple cold stares at Goldman from the Neurons, and they too began to help.

“Deeply sorry, he’s been like that since we got here.” Said the one armed man. “My name is Keetz, I’m pleased to meet you and your unconscious friend.” He offered his right hand for a handshake, not expecting Temmie’s large tauren hand to grasp firmly on his. Keetz had a strong Right arm, with a tattered cloak over his would-be other arm. The left arm appears to have been removed, whether in battle or not, Temmie couldn’t tell. It felt odd being near a man with no arm, after being so comfortable healing up everyone so no bodily appendages were removed. In a way, she felt sorry for him. But, he appeared more than capable of lifting Raven by the back of his belt and tossing him on Goldman.

“Say you’re sorry to the unconscious man.” Keetz ordered.

“Why? Dude’s out cold.” Goldman complained, lifting his limp hand to prove it.

“We’re witnesses. We can relay that you’re apologetic for your misbehavior.” Temmie thought Keetz was a little off in his reasoning, but good hearted nevertheless. He’d make a good paladin back on Azeroth.
The Neuron Woman slapped Goldman’s helmet where his cheek would be, and assumed a superior pose.

“You say you’re sorry!” She demanded. Temmie was in disbelief of her supposed command; Temmie learned with Raven early that just by adding ‘boob jiggle’, doesn’t mean a man will listen. ‘And a gratuitous amount…’ Temmie thought, with a hint of envy. Goldman however, finally gave in and apologized to the soon-to-be-carcass of Raven. Temmie and the other girl took Raven in the other room, trying to revive him.

“Big brother said so already, but sorry he did that.” She said, bringing Temmie some water. “My name’s Doven."

“My name’s Temura, but you can call me-“

“Temmie?” Doven smiled. Although she was bigger than her, and with more cleavage than either Raven’s succubus or an enraged warrior, she truly did have a good heart. Her robes were similar to the same rags everyone wore; but her curvy shapes made it fit in her mind. It clashed, though, with her waist-length blue hair that was stylized so she had large bangs that drooped to the sides of her eyes. But, her eyes were a lighter shade of blue, which matched her hair to make her look absolutely stunning. Temmie thought that they shared eye color, for a moment. After taking a while, she remembered Raven and what she said. She nodded, and then used her druid powers to bring Raven to. He awoke with a start, almost falling over on Doven. She pushed him back and he fell onto Temmie.

“Umm, how long was I out?” Raven snuggled on what he thought was her shoulder. Enraged and embarrassed with him on her breast, she pushed him to the floor.

“Not long enough.” Temmie said, with a sigh of fatigue. Doven giggled, and left the room. She brought back Keetz and Goldman, both by the arm. Although it didn’t look it, Goldman looked guilty and had trouble looking him in the face. Keetz stood upright, welcoming the new guests.

“Hey man, umm… Sorry I bashed ya.” Goldman said, with a start. Raven put his hand on his shoulder, assuring him it was fine. Goldman made a speedy exit afterwards.

“Well, he’s sure brash, but he has some good in him. I’ve seen it.” Keetz said.

He had an unusually deep voice, maybe Raven wasn’t used to other deities yet. Keetz and Doven, both shared dark tan skin; much like Raven’s but his was redder. Raven thought they might have been related, but didn’t quite think so, so he dropped the question before he asked it.

“Well, by Andorthall’s orders, I’m team leader. Temmie, being a non-deity, will be a substitution/medic to the team.” Raven informed them of the Tournament; they took it in rather with less seriousness than he’d hoped.

“The Tournament, you say? Well, fear not. Doven and I have bested many on our home world: in fact, we’re the best warriors in our section. You can leave it to us.” He pounded his chest, in confidence. Raven, however, felt unsure. Temmie was all for the new ‘medic’ idea; she never liked fighting, especially killing. There was many times where she turned her head away from what Raven would kill next. He made it hard one day by inventing ‘dominoes.’ She got so dizzy, she almost got truly sick to her stomach. Suddenly, there was a loud crash. Keetz and Doven seemed to know what it was; their ears drooped to their shoulders the moment it occurred.

“Where the hell is my music thingie?!” Goldman hollered again. The Neuron Siblings rose, and went to calm the storm that was Goldman. Raven grinned a bit, looking at Temmie; she’d fallen asleep on the bed in the room. He quietly got up, staggered a bit from a slight headache, and then left the room. He took one more look back though, just to see if she was alright in this environment. He turned around after closing her door to run into something dense, big, and breathing. He stepped back to see who he ran into, probably to scold him for being in the way, but felt all desire to squander by looking up at the ultra-muscular individual he’d yet to meet. It was the third Neuron-Deity; and he was huge. Bigger than Tauren standard, perhaps. Keetz jumped in the way, to stop any conflict.

“Xandran, you back off!” He barked. Raven suddenly knew who this was. Xandran was one of the rogue Deities from the new races. He thought he could eliminate the rest of his brethren to claim the world of Keebos as his own. Despite his efforts, the other deities banded together, and banished him to the only planet capable of containing him and his famed ‘Dark Power’. The planet was at least one hundred times denser than Keebos; the deities thought he crushed and died a long time ago. Instead, Xandran now stood in front of them, seemingly grown accustomed to the dense world he had to live upon. With powerful results, his muscles and body grew beyond normal limits, his shoulders were extra broad, and his attitude seems unchanged. He kept an emotionless gaze on Raven the whole time Keetz interfered. However, he said nothing. He remained totally stoic, compared to the others; so much so, that Raven had forgotten he was even part of the team.

“Keetz, I think it’s alright.” Raven tried to shake Keetz off, but he remained, eyes fixed at Xandran. Then he realized that maybe they had some sort of past together. Maybe Keetz was the one who banished Xandran, Raven thought. However, before he could get any answer, the door opened. Everyone looked over to see a small messenger; a pixie with wings, with eyes so huge, you felt you needed to kill it. At least, that’s what Raven thought; he didn’t like cute things.

“Welcome companions to the Tournament; round one shall begin shortly. Head to the arena or I’ll do it for you.” They didn’t take one step before they were thrust into the arena floor. There, they were watched by their peers. Raven looked around, it seemed a universe and a half was watching them this day. He looked at the arena floor, known as the Gladiatorium: it was his team, with the other team yet to be summoned. A large fanfare erupted from above the stands, and Lord Andorthall in his flying chair hovered to his usual throne holder.

“Welcome all, to the Grand Lord Tournament!!” He bellowed, causing many people in the stands to scream in excitement. “Today, we begin preliminary rounds. We have a team led by Azeroth-Deity, The Raven of Balance; their team name shall be ‘The Crusaders!” Raven loathed Crusaders. They always went after him more than anyone. Of course, destroying the Scarlet Crusade’s new settlement on Northrend peeved off many, it brought joy to his heart and soul.

“The Crusaders shall be going against a single deity, with the most basic of their traditional weapons and powers they used on their home worlds. Today, they face the mighty ‘Spidron, the Arachna-Deity!” Raven, Keetz, Goldman, and Doven braced themselves, as Xandran stood at attention. Large, catastrophic quakes riddled the arena floor. They looked forward to see one of the Gladiatorium doors open, with eight glowing red eyes to meet them. Then, the large Arachnoid crept to its side of the arena. Arachnoids were one of the most feared creatures in the universe; Spidron was their only god-deity. Arachnoids were normally only seven feet tall, but Spidron was as large as forty. Spiders were only so big on Earth and Azeroth alike; Goldman, Raven, and Temmie quaked in fear of this huge adversary simply by all three saying “Oh shit.”

-End of Chapter

Well, we meet the crew; gonna catch hell for Goldman's character or Doven's character, whichever shatters RP standards first.

I really think this will turn out to be a good team, there's so much character conflicts brewing, it'd make Brewfest raise the stakes. The Tournament starts, and everyone's at little to half power against one big-ass spider lord: Sound familiar?

Let's see how the new guys fight while Raven brings it on Azeroth Style.

As soon as Spidron spotted the group, it was already over. He charged at them before Andorthall could allow the match to begin; forcing the five in the battleground to break formation away from each other, make them each individual targets. Keetz, being the bravest of the five and possibly most naïve towards the whole situation, charged at one of his towering legs. A brilliant light shone down on him, granting his only able arm a large hammer crafted from his own light power. It was rather large with a huge headpiece, and took a few seconds to get it ready to swing, but he thought he needed only one shot to shatter the leg. He swung it behind his back, ran to one of Spidron’s hairy, slimy legs, and swung with immense effort, letting out a battle cry. Spidron, who was focused on Doven at the time, turned its main body to face Keetz, without turning its legs. A massive blow landed on its padded spider claws, but to Keetz’ dismay, only caused a small crack to run up the nail.

“Oh no,” He muttered. “This won’t end well.” The same claw lifted and Spidron made a flick motion with it; sending Keetz into the wall, causing a nasty crater when he hit. Goldman ducked right before he was going to be hit by Keetz, and upon looking up, saw Spidron’s leg closing in on him.

“Aww, hell.” Was all he could say before he was trampled into the arena floor. Raven looked as his group was falling apart. He ran to Doven for support; he couldn’t be left alone with one of Spidron’s gigantic legs. He took a look at Xandran to see how he was holding up; quite literally, actually. He was about to be trampled like Goldman, but using his gargantuan strength, was holding off one of Spidron’s legs with each arm. Doven looked to Keetz to see him climbing out of his hole in the wall.

“Raven, his claws are very, very dense; that hammer would’ve shattered you in multiple pieces upon impact.” Raven, a little shaken by that fact, nodded.
“We need to find a weak point. Where’s Goldman?” As he saw one of Spidron’s legs lifting up.

“Get. The. Hell. Offa. Me!” Goldman cursed, as he pushed up Spidron’s leg. Xandran took the opportunity to shove off Spidron’s two legs. Having three of his eight legs being lifted at the same time, Spidron became very unbalanced, and with a shrieking cry, toppled over on its back. Raven spotted something on Spidron’s back: his exoskeleton was separated where his head and back connect. It must’ve been connected with skin and muscle; but still, it sure looked weaker than its durable hides.

“Keetz, see if you can hit between its head and back!” He called, as he began his warlock fire spells. He used a fire starter first, but really let the flames fly when the set-up was complete. By that time, Spidron righted itself; but enraged that its whole backside was aflame. He charged the group again, but stopped in its tracks. Raven had braced himself for Spidron, but loosened up when it halted. Apparently, some mystic barrier had covered up the group; and was proven to be immovable by Spidron. He looked around to see if it had been Keetz or Xandran, Goldman even. But Doven had shown her power; she’d made shields using the light around them, using Keetz’ own light power.
“I got him! Someone get on his back before I lose him!” She called out. Goldman was first to act. He grabbed some of the rubble that Spidron was producing, large pointy rocks in particular. He grabbed the largest one he could, and jumped high onto one of his legs.

“I’m gonna get you, you ugly son of a-“Goldman cried out, until he was slammed into the wall; Spidron felt his presence on his leg and rammed him into the wall. Unshaken, however, Goldman leapt again almost on his back.
“That didn’t hurt! Hit me again, bitch!” He laughed, as he clasped onto his rock and the slimy tendrils that protruded on Spidron’s leg. Spidron, enraged further by Goldman’s taunts, did a barrel role, which too wasn’t enough to loosen Goldman’s grip. Keetz took the opportunity to try for the leg again.

“Xandran, hold that leg in place.” He ordered. Xandran glared at Keetz, in which he only nodded, and charged for the leg. Gripping it in a bearhug, he then embedded his feet in the ground for support. Doven used her shields to further reinforce his standing. Spidron’s leg was immobilized; giving Keetz another shot at shattering that same leg he’d failed to destroy earlier. He readied his light hammer, for a deafening blow. Once his light power was fully charged, he went after him again. This time, he added more momentum: a full spin turn before swinging his mighty hammer. It landed to the left, near the exact same spot he hit before, shattering the nail completely and sending a light-induced fissure to run up the whole leg. Spidron was hit with crippling pain, and crashed on its belly. Goldman took the chance to jump to his head.

“Yeah! Wanna stomp me again?! Huh?! Stomp on this!!” He slammed the large rock in the aforementioned weak spot, between the head and body, embedding the rock in Spidron’s neck. It squealed in pain, bluish green spider blood splurted from the wound instantly. But he wasn’t quite finished yet. He started to get up, which prompted Goldman to punch the rock with his mighty fist, causing the whole body to quake in pain.

“Oh yeah, that felt good, huh?” He laughed. It started to shake, as Goldman punched the rock further into Spidron’s neck. It squealed and shrieked in agony, which only led Goldman on.

“THIS! IS! MY HOUSE!!” He roared between blows, shattering the rock. He kept on going though, driven by rage and willpower. “I'M GONNA! KNOCK!! YOUR!!! PUNKASS!!!! OUT!!!!!” Finishing his attack, he clasped both of his fists together, and slammed both into the rock fragments, causing it to go through Spidron’s nerve system, neck, and out of its body entirely; it even embedded into the ground from under the giant spider lord. Its blood sprayed into the crowd, in a mist-like proportion, and Spidron finally collapsed for good. Raven took the time to look into the face of the spider deity; it had eight red eyes, but were no longer glowing. It had fangs, but they were spitting its own blood. Goldman hopped off of the burning thing before he too caught fire. The whole body quickly burned.

“He is defeated.” He said, as the crowd went wild. Andorthall rose, applauding the group. He then raised his right hand in the air, prompting the crowd to quiet down.

“Congratulations, Crusaders!” Raven winced. “You qualify to enter the tournament. Your worlds now have a chance to be spared.” He smiled. All five of them quickly looked at him, with apparent shock.

“…Spared?” Raven mustered. Did he say that? He was certain he said that, wasn’t he? Before he could ask him himself, all five were teleported back to their room.

-End of Chapter

Being a firm believer in the Theme Music Power Up (see Below), I'm gonna find a way to give each character a theme song and apply it to my profile somehow.
Link

Guess the Tournament got a lot more fun. Let's see how Temmie's doing in the Suite

“That no good lyin’ son of a-!!! “ Came a roaring howl echoed through the walls.

“Goldman, stop. My head hurts.” Raven interrupted the hour-long rant Goldman had been on. “Apparently, the Tournament got a new rule at the last minute; but before we get into that we need to discuss our team’s credentials. Most importantly, our powers.” Keetz sat on the couch, the right side so as to rest his arm, Doven took a seat in a beanbag chair that seemed to suck her in, Xandran stood by the corner, and Goldman found a spot on the floor and sat there, teeming with anger and ready for an outburst.
“Now; we’ll start with-“Raven started.

“God damn son of a- !!” Goldman cursed. Temmie came in from the other room and shushed him by cracking a pipe on his helmet. He shut up instantly, for once, and sat quietly with the others.

“Temmie, you’re awake. How’re you doing?” Raven asked. She set the pipe down, and sat on the couch. She let out a sigh, and pointed to a rather large box in the room.

“I saw what you guys did through that. The pixie people told me it’s a ‘Tee-vee’; it let me see what you guys did at the arena. So, to answer your question; I’m exhausted after how exciting it all was.” She took a deep breath, let it go, and shook her hair out of her eyes. She gave a nice smile though, she was glad no one got seriously hurt. Raven returned a grin and nod.
“Anyways, we’ll start with Keetz. Go ahead and tell us what you can do prior to the Tournament.” Raven took a seat on the other side of the couch. Keetz took a stand and cleared his voice.

“Well, before the Tournament, I had a much larger grasp of my Light power. It’s this force each Neuron gets; a unique hold of an element through the cosmos. Me and Doven, being related, hold a share of Light-based powers. Mine are strictly offensive; hers are defensive as you saw in the arena earlier.”
“What about the big-ass hammer?” Goldman asked.

“I wielded a hammer back home; but since it isn’t here, I improvised with a Light version. It took a bit of effort, but was doable in the end.” Keetz looked down. “I took more damage than what I was supposed to. I wear heavy armor; the Light power keeps it, well, light on me. Sorry I let you all down.” Raven cocked an eyebrow. He thought Keetz did amazingly well, considering what they were up against. He rushed in head-first in the fray; brave as can be. Foolish, but it did give the group the opportunity to move.

“You did well. Moving on, Doven. He said you have defense powers?”
“Yes, in the form of Light-based barriers. I can make them from any light source; including my own. But the arena wouldn’t let me for some reason, I had to use Keetz’.” She said. She too looked down, saddened if she did inadequate.
“Could you use them in any form of offense, if one of us were incapacitated?” Raven asked. She shook her head.

“I don’t know. I hate fighting as is, I couldn’t…” Xandran took a loud step to her, only to be stared down by Keetz. She stiffened up, and then composed herself. “I wouldn’t do well, let’s put it that way.” Raven nodded. He looked at Goldman who was ready to let loose what he can do, like some kid in class who’s normally not the one giving an answer.

“I can beat shit up. An’ run real fast. An’ jump real high. An’ I’m good at driving. I made sandwiches once, they were good.” He let out in short bursts. He had his little speech since they started, it appeared. He got stuffy when Raven interrupted him.

“Thank you Goldman. Xandran?” Raven nodded to him. Xandran, however, kept silent. Instead, he picked up the couch Temmie, Raven, and Keetz were on; with little to no effort. “Super-strength, got it. I take it you’re not as fast as Goldman?” He nodded. “And, you have a elemental power, like Keetz?” Xan nodded with reluctance this time. He didn’t want to show that power, it appeared. “Well, that’s fine. We’ll find out when you need to use it.”

“Hope that he never does, it’s a world breaker. The legendary Dark power; which is opposite to my own.” Keetz glared at Xandran, and Xandran returned the look. “It’s one of the reasons you’ll never touch anyone on this team unless it’s a very good reason to do so. Goes double for Doven; in fact, I suggest you keep your distance from her at all times.” Keetz ordered. Xandran simply exhaled heavily from his nose, turned around and left the group. Raven looked at Keetz, Temmie’s eyes opened wide, Doven sighed, and Goldman was found whistling some tune. Keetz cleared his throat, then continued.

“The Dark power is an instant kill power. It can destroy anyone in seconds to minutes depending on how dark they are. Not just atmospheric dark, but dark to the core. It’s like my Judgement attack, but significantly more lethal.”

“Judgment attack?” Raven quirked. He remembered the Paladins on Azeroth; they used similar attacks. Hammers, heavy armor, light attacks, etc. He was sure Keetz could pull off more than he’s saying, if it were the case. However, if Keetz was a paladin in another world; Xandran must be some form of dark knight. “A death knight…” Raven whispered. Temmie caught what he said, and shivered. Death Knights had recently joined the horde; they were nothing nice. Just talking to one gave her the feeling she was going to be headless in the next moment. She didn’t get what Raven was on about, but felt similar vibes when she was near Xandran. Raven broke her out of her thoughts when he sliced his hand open.

“Temmie, could you use your power?” he asked. She stumbled on a word or two, but said she could. She began to use her druid healing on Raven’s hand. Everyone saw that what once had a small cut was later healed in seconds, with green leaves falling to the floor and disappearing.

“Kinda like super-mint.” Goldman whispered. They rolled their eyes at him. Raven stood up from the couch.

“She’s our healer; anyone who takes significant damage, see her. Ask her whatever, but Keetz and Doven come with me for the minute.” Leaving Goldman alone with Temmie, the trio went to the other room.

“On our world, the Light was a major part in our survival; but not in the ways you two use it.” Raven told them. They were smiling at him, but soon frowned when he derailed their Light powers. “On Azeroth, we used the Light to heal people, like Temmie just did. Better yet, it inspired us to fight on further. Now, if you two could learn how, maybe from Temmie even, it’d increase our survival rate on the field. It’s a skill me, Goldman, and Xan couldn’t do, but if we have half of us who can, it’d prove very useful against anything weird thrown at us.” He convinced to them the possibilities of multiple healers; they nodded, and seemed to like the idea. Only, Keetz seemed most distraught with it all; he was a being of pure fight in him. He didn’t want to hurt anyone friendly to him, his powers seemed they weren’t multi-functional.

With all the talk done, they returned to see Goldman and Temmie losing their rags called clothes. The trio was left in shock of the scene; both had stripped down to their undergarments.

“We can explain…” Temmie started. Moreover, Goldman pointed to himself.
“I didn’t have my old clothes when we got here.” Goldman pointed out. Everyone felt something click in their heads; no one saw the foreign clothes Goldman had now donned. Everyone soon started losing the rags, finding their comfortable attire magically appear on them once the rags were removed. “It’s like we can use ‘em again.” Goldman said.

“I remember these…” Raven murmered. He admired his gear; it was proof of him being a conqueror on Azeroth. Dark purple garments made him feel powerful, especially when he customized some gems in the skulls that riddled the garment. He finished with a smile saying that, “This is going to be fun.”

-End of Chapter

We get into what people can do. Soon, what they look like with their battle gear.

Moreover, check out the journal; I'll be putting either names of songs or links to youtube for theme music as I previously wanted last post.

The next day, the group left the room for the cafeteria. It was a breakfast for the ones who made it; they knew that. The first day of the Tournament was over. The second has only just begun.

Raven sat down with the gang, his plate filled with various sweets from the menu, the main focus being chocolate mana pancakes. Temmie had gotten a bowl filled with this weird blue liquid, probably from some alien’s home planet that looked interesting for her to try. Keetz got the same liquid, with green flecks sprinkled on top; Doven got the same with pink flecks. Xandran decided to get what Goldman got; a mountain of steak, eggs, hash browns, smoked ham, fried bacon, toasted bread with melted butter, and a side of coffee and orange juice. Xan ate quietly, while Raven and Keetz discussed battle formations and tactics, as Temmie and Doven chatted about music.

“So you see, the music on our planet has a good emphasis on the beat; it’s the main idea.” Doven said, taking a sip of her bowl. Temmie did the same, shivering as she managed the texture of it going down.

“Ooh! It wriggles all the way!” they both laughed, and went on about what they like on their home worlds. Raven took a bite from his mana pancake, poured some enchanted syrup on them and took another bite before finishing what Keetz was proposing.

“That I or you staying that close to Doven would in turn protect the whole group? I’m not sure one girl could handle a whole mass of marauders by herself.”

“She stopped Spidron, didn’t she? And that was even with us all at less than 50% efficiency due to the rags and lack of weaponry.” Keetz calculated. He sure was confident in Doven.

“But, even at 100%, where we are now, could she stop three giant attacks?That’s usually what they do.”

“Who do?” Keetz took a sip from his blue broth.

“You know, the big bad; the main attraction.”

“You make no sense; but yes, she could.” They went on for hours. Xan finished his meal from earth, quite satisfied, so he leaned back in his chair. He turned to Goldman only to be shocked that Goldman’s plates were entirely clean.

“That was damn fine, wasn’t it? Just like Ma used to make.” He commented. Xan was appalled by the sight; Goldman hadn’t even made one noise in taking off his helmet, how could he have eaten all that so fast?

“Don’t worry; that there’s some heavy stuff, it takes some getting used to!” Goldman slapped Xan’s back quite hard. He shrugged his shoulder, and then moved a seat over to Temmie. He didn’t quite like Goldman’s rough persona, but at least he ate well. Still, he remained puzzled.

A bell sounded in the cafeteria hall; the many competitors stopped what they were doing; in the end of the hall was Andorthall. Raven felt his stomach churn, just by the sight of him.

“Welcome again, champions! You’ve all passed the first round! How do you feel? Accomplished? Good!!” Raven wanted to say something, but decided it was best not. Temmie gave him a nasty look too; she knew too well what he was going to say. She remembered Goldman and what he’d said the day before and gave him a similar look; only to catch him napping.

“… Now, to tell you the current crowd favorites; everyone took a liking to the new and rambunctious Crusaders, led by Azeroth-Deity Raven, “ Andorthall smiled, “But they were no match to last year’s winners, The Dark Rains!” The hall applauded the team, as they stood up. All except for Andorthall, Temmie and Raven.

“Raven, who are they?” Temmie asked, in a quiet voice as everyone calmed down.

“They’re the Dark Rains; sword masters known for their abilities, weapons, and powers; a group of five grand warriors who only enjoy killing. They’re definitely along the lines of chaotic evil, in terms of nice.”

“Chaotic what?”

“You’re Neutral, a paladin would be lawful good, and I’m chaotic neutral. They’re the ones who actually would kill you the moment they met you.” He described with imaginary hand puppets.

“Uh huh… it was nice to meet you too.” She rolled her eyes. She took a look at the whole group; there wasn’t one in particular she liked: until one with black and white hair and an eye-patch blew a kiss at her. She gasped, and then ducked down in her seat. Raven caught what happened.
“Who was that?” Temmie asked.

“Jean Rapier, master swordsman. He has a sword made of his own blood. They say it has his soul in it, along with the souls of his enemies he takes away with a mere swing. Once he gets through to your heart, it’s over.” She didn’t even look away from him, even when he eyed her as he sat down and faced Andorthall. She felt her heart leap out of her chest, as she was immediately infatuated with the man. Raven poured what remained of her blue soup on her lap, as she felt it wriggle all over her legs causing her to snap out of her trance. She gave him a rather nasty glare, more deadly than the ones she gave in the past, as he looked towards Andorthall. Raven glanced at her, and said “The man’s known to be a womanizer; you best stay away from him unless you want to get hurt.” They quieted down to hear the remainder of Andorthall’s announcement.

“… So with great sadness, I regret to inform you that many of the teams have ‘disqualified’ due to unbeknownst reasons.” Everyone began murmuring to one another. It was uncommon for the deities to forfeit anything. Temmie looked at the others; they were awestricken. All except for Raven, he looked like he knew.

“The Tournament shall go on, however there will be new rules after the second round. Since so many left the tournament, the second round shall be the last of the team battles.” Everyone was in uproar; no one thought they’d be fighting alone. It even prompted one team to even shout out that they were quitting as well. They looked to be all from one planet; until they evaporated in thin air. Everyone quieted down after seeing a team just vanish.

“Now, while there’s any other teams who wish to quit, speak aloud.” Andorthall lowered his smoking hand. It was a strange smoke; it had lights coming from it, as if it was created from pieces of energy in the air as each piece just popped.

“It’s easy to leave the tournament; but what happens after is a little difficult. You see, my sons and daughters, I’ve decided to add a new rule to the Tournament. I hinted such after each one of you finished your first round: that the losing team’s world is removed from the system. Think of it as a little… motivation, if you will.” He smiled. Everyone was silent. Raven looked down, dawning on the truth. He and Temmie were not only representatives of Azeroth: They were it’s defenders.

It was only until they got back to their rooms that they started talking about what Andorthall discussed.

“That’s the most bullshit I’ve heard in all my life.” Goldman started, “If we lose, our home dies?”

“More or less,” Keetz said, calmly. “Still, this is our first tournament; how could he begin to destroy that he’s created?” Raven knew the answer before anyone.
“Balance,” he said aloud. “It has to be balance.” He got up and walked to the Tee-Vee screen. “Look, I saw this before breakfast.” He clicked a channel. It was a rolling list of names, next to them were planets.
“Raven, what are those?” Temmie asked.

“They’re the ones who ‘quit’ as Andorthall put it. Look closer at some of the names.” They all, except Xan, moved in closer. Some of the names they’ve never heard before. “In theory since every Deity, thus every planet in their respective systems is here for this event, we should have heard all these names before. But, there’s one problem: We don’t know half of them because we’re the youngest Deities here.”

“But that’s why we’re here, right? To meet these guys, right?” Goldman protests. Raven shook his head.

“We hadn’t heard of these people from the tournament because-“

“They never came.” Keetz interrupted. “They either quit immediately, or never even came.”

“Exactly.” Raven pointed to him. “And if this is the biggest event of our race, why would they not come?” They all thought about it.

“They either weren’t told, or were so new…” Keetz started.

“But we’re the youngest. They weren’t told either because we know it on instinct.”

“But then, why would they just…” Keetz stopped.

“Disappear? Hell if I know…” Goldman finished. Everyone, except Goldman of course, then got it.

“They ‘disappeared’ just like that team at breakfast today, Goldman.” Raven told him.

“Yeah, yeah, I saw that. It was awesome and all, but what’s it gotta do with what we’re talkin’ about?” He asked.

“Andorthall, he couldn’t have.” Keetz murmured, as Raven clicked at the Tee-Vee. He stopped at a picture of Lord Andorthall and pointed his finger at it.
“Andorthall destroyed these people’s worlds before the tournament.” He shouted. The whole group’s eyes grew quite wide. Raven had it near figured out; Andorthall was destroying the Deities one by one. Why, he didn’t know, but he sure as The Flaming Nether was doing so.

“Andorthall’s using the Tournament as a scapegoat. He must’ve erased these worlds from existence before the tournament; then simply had them listed here as losers in the first round to reduce suspicions around why some friends weren’t here.”

“But why not destroy them earlier? Or have us gone all at once?” Keetz argued. He sat on the couch, visibly exhausted by the whole ordeal.

“Andorthall’s a lord Deity, but even he has limits. It takes time to make us, let alone get rid of us.” Saying that left a rather sour taste in his mouth, despite all his sweets he ate. “He could have been very well started this a long time ago.”
“But then why host the Tournament?” Doven asked. Xan puffed his chest, letting out a deep sigh.

“It’s a tradition that’s never been squandered since the start of the Deities’ time. It’s a natural instinct when it starts, as Raven said.” Temmie answered. “At least, that’s what I gather. I’m just from Azeroth.” They nodded at her, agreeing.
“The Tournament must be speeding things up, though. With everyone here, his power’s escalating; so he destroys us when we’re done fighting.” Raven thinks aloud. “It could be the energy we spend. He’s gathering what energy we use.”
“Or don’t use. Think about it, why would he start us off at roughly 50% power?” Keetz goes to the screen with a marker in hand. He writes some symbols in a language different to everyone but his race. “If he’s absorbing of our energy, the energy we don’t use goes to him, right? So we had limited powers; so he could have limited absorption.” He drew more symbols and arrows. “If we fought at, say, 99% power, because we were forced to that first round, he’d take whatever we didn’t use, that’s 1% per person fighting.” He said, drawing up more and more of the same symbol. “If there’s five people on a team, that’s 5% of the total team’s power to him.”

“But that’s only a little compared to how much he’d have to destroy at every loss, wouldn’t it?” Doven asked. Keetz gave a grim grin.

“The Tournament’s bigger than that. At any time, there’s at least a fight going on somewhere in the system, not just here. It has to be so; because we can’t fit all the systems here in this one space. With multiple fights going on, Andorthall’s performing multiple absorptions.”

“With the many races and systems, there could be at least thousands of fights going on at any time.”

“Let’s take that then. One thousand times the number of people on a team, multiplied by two because there’s two teams fighting.” Keetz wrote the equation on the screen. Goldman raised his hand. “Goldman?”
“It’s over 9000!” He shouted.

“In a way,” Keetz rolled his eyes at the blatant stupidity. “One thousand times five is five thousand, times two is ten thousand. If that ten thousand is all giving up 1% to Andorthall, and if we each had constant power levels, he’d have 10000% more power absorbed. That’s enough to destroy a few planets, what do you think?” he threw the marker down and took a seat, visibly disturbed by what he just figured out. Raven took a stand.

“We need to fight our all next round: we can’t allow him to get more power.”

“As if that would work,” Keetz mocked him, “That’s only five of us; he’d still be getting 9995% power from everyone else.”

“It’s the second round; half of them have died. It could mean he only gets 4995% power.”

“Wrong still: He gave us some power back.” Raven thought about it. The only reason he took away power in the first place was to have people fight hard. With their powers somewhat restored, they can fight better. What’s the reason behind that, he thought.

“It means he’s got enough power to destroy us all. Now he’s just destroying us after we play around in the arena, with energy to spare.” Keetz answered. “Think about it; our powers are that of gods. Andorthall gave us all our powers when we were made. As we grew, our power grew as well. So if he takes away our power at our prime, after it had been growing so strong, he’d be given a lot more than what he gave.”

“A change in the balance,” Raven said aloud. “The scales, always tipped in his favor. All that we are made of is his to control. In order to live peacefully, balance must be restored.” A dark aura crept around his body, as everyone’s eyes grew wide at Raven’s power. “And I’m the one who can restore that balance; it’s my birthright.” The room shook, as his power began to flourish. Temmie’d seen this before, but it wasn’t quite right just yet. “I am not justice, nor am I vengeance, or any other sort of power evil or benign-“

“Then what the hell are ya?” Goldman interrupts. Raven is suddenly silenced; swiftly thinking about a return answer.

“Umm… I got, eh…” Raven stuttered. Temmie cocked an eyebrow, as everyone started to doubt his bravo. “Well, see… Geez, I, eh, I dunno yet.” He admitted. Everyone just deflated; Goldman let out a pissed off ‘Come on’, Keetz started for the other room. Soon, everyone but Temmie had left him to dwell on the thoughts on Andorthall. They had their doubts, they felt he was doing wrong, but they couldn’t trust Raven just yet. Raven, however, felt their ‘Lord Deity’ had turned evil. That was something he couldn’t tolerate. He sat on the couch, in a huff. Temmie took a seat next to him.

“So the speech got a new line?” She asked, with a smile.

“Yeah, it’s no good still; I can’t make a good end to what I really am. I’m not good; I don’t do anything ‘drastically’ bad.” He laid his head back. “I dunno. But, Andorthall is doing bad, right? Just another thing to fix, right?” Temmie straightened up, let out a sigh, and looked at Raven with one of those looks.

“Well, it’s not like Naxxramas, that’s for sure.” She said. Raven sulked. “But, if you work with the team, maybe we can save all the worlds.” She said. He glanced at her, in dismay. “And work on your so-called ‘Inigo Montoya’ speech, or whatever you call it.” She smiled. He nodded in approval and sprung right up.

“Know what? You’re right. I’m gonna get the team together, we’re gonna fight to the top, and we’re gonna take Andorthall’s killing spree streak and cram it right up his-“ But before anyone said anything; there was a massive flash of light, and the team was back at the arena. It was time for their second bout.

-End of Chapter

Lots of stuff goin on; especially at the second half. It's startin to get bad, especially keeping a steady thought process...

Eh, I'll keep workin on it. Anyways I, being the kid at heart, drew up all the main characters and colored em; be it as it may, it was in pencil and crayon, (Crayon as in my sister's 64 crayon pack, y'know, with the sharpener in the back) it was dedicated and I spent two nights on a couple pictures, I'm debating wether or not to post them on the site. (That and figure out which tab they'd go)

SO yeah, I'll just keep on keepin on. Seeya next chapter; Final Team Battle's next.

“HELLO UNIVERSE!!! Welcome to the second round of the tournament!” Howled Lord Andorthall. The crowd was stirred up like a riot, throwing food, yelling, screaming, cheering; it invigorated the two teams at the arena floor, having been both suddenly teleported to a newly shaped arena. “The second round is going to be a little different from the first: hazards!” Andorthall raised his hand, causing a multitude of dangers and booby traps to appear before the Crusaders. In fact, they had to dodge a few when they were introduced. They all ducked to narrowly miss a blade shot from the wall, which embedded itself into the stone wall behind them. Then, they saw spikes shoot out from the ground, all at random locations. One spike grazed Goldman’s belt buckle, causing him to jump back with a fright. Another shot up and almost got Doven from behind, only to be pulled away by Xan.

“That’s only a few hazards, Crusaders! There’s plenty more to behold, including… THE FLOOR!” Andorthall pointed at the floor and laughed, causing the whole arena to quake. Everyone ducked down, but soon saw fissures forming near them. Directly ahead of the Crusader team, magma shot out from the largest fissure, striking all with awe and fear. Andorthall couldn’t get enough; he was laughing beyond his normal standard. He finally stopped, as the Crusaders all rose, unscathed. They, of course, took great care not to get near the growing magma pool. He saw Raven staring at him with most hated intent. ‘Mark my words, boy. Even if you figure it out, you’ll never survive!’ he whispered to himself, with a smile.

“Crusaders! Your opponents are the Arena itself!” Magma shot out of the arena floorings, as rubble started to form. Metal spikes and weaponry shot out of the walls, breaking the pipe works causing the floor to flood. “Meet the revolutionary Team Element!” Andorthall cried, fist clenched in his mailed glove. The water, magma, rock, and metal all began to form. The Crusaders couldn’t believe their eyes when they saw each of the hazards of the arena transform into elemental deities! From the depths of the arena, the magma deity rose to new heights, bellowing his name, “Magmios!” as the crowd roared in excitement. From the arena floor itself, gathered together the rock and sand of ground, a rumbling hulk of boulder called itself “The Rock” giving a slight face formation of stone a sneering look. The water that cascaded from the plumbing of the arena and its facilities brought forth a swaying, swift water lord, who spoke more femininely than the others calling itself “Hydrax”, who swished over to her brethren. The last one, shaped by metal, collected itself into a walking machine of spikes, swords, and hard iron, who called himself “Metalord”, with a grave, metallic voice. Andorthall, keeping his composure and his smile, raised his hand.

“Begin.”

The Rock charged the group, with thundering steps, and with gathering speed crashed into the wall behind the Crusaders. The group had narrowly dodged the moving fright, and was hesitant in deciding to stop it. The Rock turned around, after pulling more rock from the arena wall to bolster itself, giving off its signature sneer. Goldman charged the boulder deity in anger; in similar fashion to The Rock, he gathered much speed and hurled his body onto the earthly warrior: only to have Hydrax wrap her water strand around his ankle, and whip him into the wall.

“UGH!! ‘Kay that hurt…” Goldman muffled. Keetz looked at Goldman, then at Hydrax. He, too, charged to save his comrade; only to be checked so hard by The Rock that he hit the opposite wall, similar to Goldman.

“Quite so…” He muttered, as he was winded and quite stunned. Both landed on the ground with a thud, as the crowd laughed at their foolish ploys. Raven made a face at the situation, then looked at Xan and Doven; both of whom were stuck fighting Metalord. Doven’s shields were stopping the mass of metal, but its flexibility and agility were too much for Xan; he couldn’t get a decent hold of it the same way he had Spidron. As Doven was weakening, Magmios burst suddenly in front of Raven.

“Where do you think you’re going?” it boasted. He roared flame at Raven, who backed up as much as he could to avoid a burn. Raven gathered some shadow power, and then hurled it at Magmios; to no avail. It laughed at his futility: Magmios was gathering power as he moved on the rock floor, there was no way a bit of shadow magic could weaken a being constantly gathering strength. It looked at its gargantuan arms, and swung them playfully at Raven, who ducked to avoid being hit and getting melted by the molten arm’s extreme heat. Soon, Magmios was as big as a previous encounter The Raven had met back on Azeroth: Ragnaros. ‘Perhaps they’re brothers?’ Raven thought, as he dodged another swipe. ‘No, perhaps cousins…’

“Raven, need some help here!” Doven called. He looked to see Xan horribly overpowered. He’d been trapped in a steel cage of spikes, his clothes embedded in the arena wall, and a spinning drill easing close to his head.
“Damn, he’s fast. I’ll be there in a minute!” he called to her. “Take on hot stuff here, contain him if you can!” She nodded and went after Magmios, only to stop halfway to form a sturdy barrier to her side, with all her strength. The Rock had catapulted himself towards her, stopped only by the rounded barrier. In fact, he was reflected almost into the stands due to clipping the roundness so hard. It left Doven shocked and tired having to swiftly react to such a strong contender, but Raven just saw a potential weakness with The Rock. Xan was about to be impaled when Goldman stepped in on Metalord.

“Come on, punk!” He cried, punching it in, what he thought was, its face. He retracted his hand in pain, after realizing he just punched a metal mound. Metalord laughed at him, and then made some spikes from its ribcage swipe at Goldman. He got scratched up a bit on his side, but Goldman hung on. “Bastard… freakin’ metal body…” He muttered. There was no way to hurt it, metal wasn’t something he’d planned on fighting in his future.

“Right behind you, Goldman!” called Keetz, only to be tripped by Hydrax’s whip-like water tendrils. It hissed at him, whipping him in the face, causing a gnarly gash in his cheek. Blue blood streamed down his face, as Keetz was fixed on it. His face looked like shock, horror, and surprise all mixed inside. Hydrax left him in his stupor to assist Metalord; by forming her body all around Xan so as to drown him.

Doven wasn’t having a good time with Magmios. She was forced to pin herself to the wall, her barriers being the only thing stopping her from being flooded by magma. She grit her teeth, tears streaming down her face, hoping she could be alleviated soon. Magmios, however, took the whole situation as a fun time, lathering more and more magma onto her barriers, laughing at her, watching her buckle down and squirm. What was worse, it was getting impeccably hot. The barrier stopped the magma, but not the heat, as Doven was baking herself alive. What’s worse, her barriers were soundproof to everyone outside her shields; but even knowing this, she still called for help.

Indeed, she was growing weak, but as was Xan. His head submerged in water, and his massive body’s need for air rising, he felt most of his body failing him. He began to lose feeling with his fingers, his sight was blacking out, and his ever growing fear made it worse. He opened his eyes to see a water world, but with his animalistic features, saw through the water to see Doven. He saw she was doing terrible, and was suddenly invigorated. He grasped at the water prison he was in, only to not be able to grasp anything. He felt his feet touch ground, after much flailing. His chest bursting for air, the last amount of effort he had left to give, he pumped his body up; bursting the giant water bubble. It sent water flying everywhere; some even hit Magmios, causing him to interrupt his attack on Doven. Hydrax let out a wail, trying to gather herself up, quickly.

“The beast… he doubled his size to shatter the tight hold I had on the water prison!” Xan coughed out much water, as he took the time to gather some deep breaths of air. He was feeling much better, as he began to regain much of his body’s functions. Including feeling and seeing a soon approaching Rock Deity. From on his knees, to crouched and ready, he grappled The Rock with his might. He was thrown back some by the massive force The Rock exerts, but was able to hold him off from crushing him into the wall. Raven, who had been busy with Metalord, saw that Xan had The Rock captive, and that some Deities could negate one another. He thought of the best way to destroy the team; Magmios destroyed a majority of the rocky floor, Hydrax could harm Magmios, it was perfect!

“Xan!” Raven hollered from across the arena. “Toss him into Magmios!” Xan looked at him, questioningly. “Magmios has been destroying the floor, he might hurt that rock you’re holding! Throw him!!” Raven hopped up and down, showing his urgency. Xan nodded, and hefted the large Rock to a better position to throw him. The Rock finally got what they were saying, and lost his signature sneer for a look of horror, as he was hurled into Magmios. It let out a scream, but was soon silenced by Magmios, as he consumed the large amount of rock; which bolstered his form further. However, he wasn’t very pleased when he found out he just ate his colleague.

“NOOOOOOOO!!! I’ll kill you all!” It screamed, then slammed both fists onto Doven’s weakening shield. Inside, she let out a whimper, then felt the shield start to give way.

“Too hot… it’s… too hot…” She gasped, as she had taken the majority of her clothing off, leaving only her white undershirt and panties on. Jewelry, twin robes, belt, cloak, everything else made things unbearable in the heated dome. Her sweat dripped on the floor, which turned to steam after sitting a while. “Hot… Too… Keetz…” She fell to her knees, barely holding on. “Help… Someone…” She mustered to say with the last of her strength, and then the barrier gave in, as she fainted from the extreme heat. Keetz felt something give, as he rose to his feet after being in his stupor. The barrier collapsed, causing the magma to flow inside. His eyes opened wide to feel the heat and to see everything fold from where his sister once stood so vigilantly. He thought she was okay for a while longer, he was overconfident. It got too hot, he was too strong, and she’s gone. It was his fault, she was weak, he was weak, and it was too hot, too strong. His fault, he thought, along with many more rushes of thoughts and emotion. Then, he snapped.


“AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRGGGHHH!!!”


He roared louder than thunder, as his light power overwhelmed him. It flooded from his body, pushing away everything from where he stood. Metalord backed away; Hydrax was sent flying into Magmios, causing both to wail and scream with agonizing pain. Both melted into one another, causing both to form into this strange metallic rock. The magma was gone; it cooled in seconds without the presence of its lord. Keetz’ light knocked everyone back: except for Goldman. He’d charged so fast to where Doven was, hopped over the still-burning magma, picked her up before she was burned away much like her discarded clothing, and jumped as high as he could to the middle of the arena: where Keetz stood. The light sent both high into the air, which gave Goldman no floor to run on, and was too high to land safely. He let out a cry for help which Xan heard with his sensitive ears, even during the roar of Keetz’ fury. After being thrown back by Keetz’ light, a weakened Xan rushed over to where Goldman and Doven were falling. He raised both arms, and caught Doven perfectly, bringing Xan to his knees in all delicacy. Goldman made a small crater.
“I hate you…” Goldman said; then fainted as well. Once Keetz recovered from the mental shock, Raven went over to try and comfort him. However, Keetz made a hammer of light appear, and grasped it with much strength. He went over to Metalord. Everlasting hate was filled in his eyes, which struck fear in the Metal Deity. It glanced over to the massive remains of Hydrax and Magmios, the metal remains. It laughed, which sounded like coughing, and jumped on top of it.
“Fools! You’ve made me the strongest of all!!” It cried, as it embedded itself in the metal. Soon, it was reanimated; and was moving similar to all four deities. It spoke, and was the voice of all four as well. “You cannot defeat the elements! We are the strongest forces of all time!” Keetz made a chuckle, before he gave all four the death glare.

“The strongest force? Laughable!” He cried, as his light energy from all around the arena, all the leftover power from his potent outburst, gathered back to him. The Elemental Giant slowly raised an arm, intending to smash Keetz. It only gave him time to charge up his attack. “You fools think you can kill my sister and get away with it?! I’ve been trying to get rid of the one who threatened her life ever since he met her!!” A wave of light flashed from his left shoulder. “He took away my good arm… and almost took her away the same day!” The same light crafted itself into a giant arm, filled with many runes of his world coating it, which fitted as being his ‘true’ left arm. “You’re not the strongest force there is, not by a long shot!” He lifted the Hammer of Light with his left arm. “That force, is LIGHT!!!” he bellowed, as he hurled himself to the metallic mass of deities. His arm swung the hammer back, and with strength never before seen, slammed the hammer on The Element Giant’s side. It caused a massive tremor when it impacted; large cracks formed on the strong body of the new deity, with light shining through each crack. The metal puffed up, letting the cracks vent out the light from within, only to have the last of the light run out from inside. Keetz then took his hammer, and swung it the other way, slamming itself into the other side of the metal; causing a similar effect from before. Only this time, The Elementals were sure to lose their hold on their form. But it held together, barely, and swung an arm to crush Keetz. The Light Warrior raised a hand, and with no effort, stopped the massive attack thrown by the deity. The monster had weakened so much so, that Keetz’ strength, which wasn’t as good as Goldman’s, not even close to Xan’s, was all that was necessary to crumble the deity. The light that had exploded from Keetz before, some had embedded itself into the elementals; causing a massive hole filled with light inside the metal monster. Keetz’ strikes freed the light; causing the monster to burst from inside out, metal chunks flying every which way.

Raven couldn’t believe what he’d seen; neither could Xan. The whole crowd went silent, even. Andorthall, too, was surprised at the strength of Keetz’ light. ‘Well, that was a little surprise… He seems like a prime subject.’ He mused. Then he straightened himself up, and began some applause. That is, until the metal beast began to move again. Keetz noticed the upper half of the deity was trying to form with other pieces of metal.

“I don’t think so.” He told it, as it froze in utmost fear. He raised his hand to it, and the metal beast fell. It was dead, from fright. Keetz then collapsed to the ground, weak from over-exertion and sadness.

“Doven… I failed you.” He cried, quietly. Raven took a few steps to him, only to be cut off by Xan. He was still holding Doven in his arms; he brought her to him. Keetz looked away from Xan, his hatred of him was put above all else. But, after a second glance, seeing his weakened sister brought new life in him.
“Doven… how did you survive?” He whispered. He took her from Xan, who promptly pointed at himself, then a small crater Goldman was in. Keetz nodded, with approval. “So, Goldman did it… I’ll have to thank him later when he comes to. As will Doven.” He looked at her. He didn’t see Xan’s disappointed, and somewhat angry, face. He saved her from falling to death, after all. He turned around, and met eyes with Raven. The elf just patted his shoulder; he knew how it went down. Xan gave a small smile, then wandered off to help Goldman out of the hole he was in.

Andorthall resumed his applause, along with everyone else in the stands. Seeing as though all of them needed medical attention, more or less, Andorthall skipped the speech of how they completed the second round and just sent them to their quarters to meet up with their team medic: Temmie. In a flash of light, everyone was in the suite again; with a little card from Andorthall that was composed of his complimentary speech.

-End of chapter

Longest one so far; I'll be posting more music in the journal.
Seeya then

Doven and Goldman were left in Temmie’s care the very moment they were teleported back to their suite. Goldman seemed fine; he only took a rather nasty fall, but didn’t break many bones. He was tough as nails in the first place, so the group wasn’t worried about him as much as Doven. She’d been hit with extreme heat exhaustion from the magma, and bodily strain from over-exerting her shield power. As a result, she was in a coma. So there were some rules stated: no one was to bother neither her nor Temmie during recovery, they could bring food and drinks at certain times, and only Raven or Keetz could enter, Xan was to remain no further than the front room.

It was tough; Raven wondered how Temmie was doing while Keetz was for Doven. Both felt responsible for her state; Raven for sending her against Magmios, and Keetz for being too confident in their abilities.

“Hey, Keetz…” Raven broke the silence in the room. He thought he could make him feel better.

“It’s my fault, primarily.” Keetz interrupted. He was looking at the same patch of carpet for four hours. They weren’t sure, but the group thought he wasn’t sleeping either. “I was… I thought…”

“Hey, no, it was me. I told her to fight the guy. I didn’t know she couldn’t stop heat.”

“We can. I just don’t know what happened.”

“Wait, so she could’ve stopped most of the damage he was dealing?” Raven sat up, ears perked.

“It’s possible. I don’t have her powers, but I know what it’s like being under her protection; for a long time.” Keetz leaned back to rest his head. He went over the very many times he was protected by her shields. “Not once did I feel anything but safe, so I gave her the best protection I could give. It’s only fair, plus I’m her big brother.”

“Well, sounds about right.” Raven commented. “But, what I want to know is, why is Xan supposed to be so distant to her?” Keetz sat up again, with a scorning look.

“Xan’s the most hated person in the world, on our world of course. He nearly caused our very destruction because of that shadow power he has. You see, our world is based upon light; we live on a star, Keebos. You can imagine already what shadow power could do on a light world.” Raven nodded. Keetz continued, looking at the Tee-Vee.

“His shadow power caused a surge of darkness too engulf a portion of the planet. Whether he did it on purpose or not, I couldn’t tell. Being the planet’s chamion and lord, I faced him head on. He talked back then, you know. He told me it wasn’t him, but that didn’t matter. There was only one person with shadows in his heart and soul and that was him. Such terrible power too, all the dark lightning. If it had a color I could point out, it’d be dark purple, like the bastard’s suit. I used all the power I had to be rid of him, banishing him to the world that had the most density. It was there I thought he’d crush and implode. It seems I was wrong. He grew stronger, that shadow power helped, no doubt.” Keetz looked as though he had a bad taste in his mouth.

“This, shadow power, could he use it again? If so, what could it do?”

“Of course he can use it again. It’s as easy to wield as my light hammer. But what it does, oh hoh, that’s something no one should see. It took several years repairing the damage it caused; if it were truly unleashed, he could destroy the planet in one swoop.”

“He held back?” Raven asked. It seemed illogical to, if you wanted to destroy something, to hold back on your wish.

“I have no idea why, but he did. That’s the only thing I’m grateful to him. But above all else, he was the cause in our planet’s pain. That’s why he’ll never get close to my sister; he’s too dangerous. I don’t like him around the same construct with any of us.” It was then Xan came into the room. Apparently, he heard everything Keetz was saying, and dealt with the negativity being thrown at him by flipping the entire couch, which set Raven flying and Keetz tumbling to the floor. Raven hit the wall hard, as Keetz rolled and readied his Light hammer.

“That’s right, that’s what I think of you, you monster! You freak of nature! I’ll kill you right here!!!” Keetz dove on Xan, in which Xan replied by grappling his sides, lifting him in the air, and slamming his back on the floor. Keetz was about to get up when Xan put a heavy palm on his belly. Keetz couldn’t move, no matter how much he struggled. He used his open hand to continually punch at Xan’s face, causing it to bleed profusely after the many blows. Keetz’ determination to get free kept him going, as Xan kept him down. Raven slowly got up, after rubbing the back of his head, saw what was going on. He knew why Keetz was hitting Xan so hard, but Xan wasn’t even fighting back. He just kept taking more and more punishment. He was about to stop it with his own shadow power when the door to Doven’s room opened with Temmie out of breath.

“What are you doing?! Come help! I-I don’t think I can bring her back!” She cried. Raven’s never seen Temmie fail her job, and she was taking it roughly; tears streaming down her face, her voice ragged. But now was not the time to comfort her or dwell on failure; Raven realized Doven may be dying. Keetz and Xan realized this too, as they stopped what they were doing and rushed to her aid. Keetz knocked Xan into the wall, stunning him enough to decide not to go. He was left alone, to muse in his thoughts. No one else saw it, but he was perhaps the most worried when it came to Doven.

In her room, Doven slept soundly, but her breathing was very slow. Temmie told them her heart was slowing, and was making no signs of recovery.
“WHAT DO YOU MEAN NO SIGNS OF RECOVERY?!!” Keetz demanded.
“Shush!! I don’t know, my magic won’t work!” Temmie cried. “I’ve used many healing ointments and herbs and teas, but nothing worked! It’s like she won’t take it. I tried. I tried...” She buckled down right there, and couldn’t stop crying. Raven rubbed her back for comfort, but felt there wasn’t much else to do. Goldman, who woke up when Temmie called them in, kept silent. Keetz, who was very quiet, went to Doven. He looked at her, up and down, and all over again.

“Doven, dearest sister.” He whispered. “Everyone, please leave.” They were all very quiet. They didn’t know what to do at first. “Leave.” Keetz demanded, his voice showed signs of cracking, his lower lip trembled. With that, everyone left swiftly. The only ones in the room were He, Doven, and Goldman.
“I don’t know what happened, Raven. I did all my magic and potions, she just wouldn’t come back. I’m not cut out for this, I can’t do this anymore.” Temmie and Raven had gone to the couch, set in its previous place by Xan when they were all in the other room. She’d laid her head on his broad shoulder, just going over what she’d done.

“You did fine, girl. It’s alright. You did the best you could; she was just hurt very badly.” He rubbed her back, as she began to calm down. They went on real quiet after he said that.

“I don’t want her to be gone, Raven.” Temmie whimpered. With much hesitation, Raven replied, “Me neither.”

In Doven’s room, Keetz had pulled up a chair next to her bed. He found her hand under her covers and wrapped his around it. How long was it, he thought, that he’d seen her like this? “Not long enough…” He said to himself. Her blue hair was neatly combed by Temmie; even her bangs were quite soft after a lengthy job. Her dark tan skin was vibrant, with fresh smelling oils. He began remembering everything about her: her waist-long hair at childhood when they would fight about the littlest thing, how he once doused one of her frilly dresses in mud, how he fended off the many boys who were after her voluptuous breasts, and many more memories.

“You really were hard to take care of, Doven.” He smiled. “But, I didn’t mind. I’m your brother, after all.” He noticed the softness of her hand compared to his. He frowned at his hand’s ruggedness. However, he realized it was the only hand he’d put on her. “Was I too protective?” He whispered. Over the years of their adolescence, their powers began to flourish most. He had an instant grasp of his power, where she had much difficulty in sustaining her shield. It took many years to get it right, but she eventually had a stronger shield than his hammer. It was then he began to realize that if she could stop him, she’d be fine on her own. Still, he took much care of her either way. She didn’t protest, or feel oppressed; it was as if she knew he wanted to help as much as possible.
“There was one reason alone I kept you safe, sister.” He thought back to the best possible answer. The day of his planet’s reckoning, Xan’s shadow power. The day it was unleashed, many shadow bolts flooded the planet. One in particular got past one of Doven’s shields, so Keetz dived to shove her out of the way; he was hit instead, losing his left arm. His Light power shone, advancing his hold of the Light, and grafted a new arm made of light to stop the bleeding, to heal his wound. With stunning realization, he had an idea that could help his dying sister. His Light arm reappeared, probably for the first time out of combat. He tugged away the covers, revealing Doven in her undergarments. Goldman, who was thought to be sleeping, wondered what he was doing.

“This arm… It healed me. It gave me strength. Now, it shall be yours Doven.” He said aloud. He put the Light Arm’s palm on her bare belly. He closed his eyes hoping his power, of which he thought could do only harm, would actually help the one he cared about most in her most dire time of need. He felt the Light swell in his body, and then it was pushed outward from his hand. It pushed Doven downward, the springs of the mattress making her bounce. He opened his eyes, to see her body glowing. No apparent wounds on her body made him feel he had done something good. He decided to pump a lot more of his Light in her, a massive amount. “Doven, come back!” He yelled, as he felt all his power go to her. There was a sound of calming thunder; light exploded into the room, blinding Goldman and even Keetz.

He opened his eyes, after a while, to see his Light Arm was gone. He felt drained of energy, and power, but he felt something warm on his head. He looked up to see Doven’s hand resting on his forehead. He climbed the bed to see Doven, with her eyes open. In gasping breathes, he tried to say something, anything to show he was happy.

“Shh, it’s okay.” Doven said, with a smile. Keetz took a small struggle to stand up, and grappled his arm around her, causing her to make a small yelp, as he finally broke down and cried.

“Oh, by Light, I’m so glad. Glad you’re okay, Doven.” He said, over her shoulder.
“Whatcha talking about, Keetz?” She asked. He took a step back to look her in the eyes.

“Why’d you talk so… illiterate? Are you feeling okay?” He asked, in concern.

“I dunno. I guess I caught it from Tems over… hey, where’s Tems, anyway?” She looked about the room.

“Oh, what do I care anyway? You’re fine, you’re back!” He hugged her again. Goldman fell out of the bed with a thud, slightly interrupting the moment.
“What the hell was that you did?” He asked Keetz. However, Keetz was too happy to hear him. It was Doven who called out to everyone to pry him off her. The three in the other room came back, to be quite shocked. It seems Doven had made a full recovery, seemingly in minutes. Xandran dragged Keetz off of her with one hand, but became fixated at Doven’s undergarments: a simple bra and panties. He forgot to put Keetz down, as everyone noticed him staring at Doven’s wears.

“Xan, you pervert!” She cried, as she pulled up the covers, in vulnerability. He snapped out of it and dropped Keetz, who made a large ‘thump’ when he hit the ground. Xan cleared his throat, and then bowed his head in embarrassment. Doven made an angry pouty face at him, and when he looked up to see her, his eyes opened wide, and then ducked his head down again. She smiled, though. He was easy to make fun with. Temmie began feeling her and Doven’s heads. She tested Doven’s arm and wrist too.

“I don’t get it. You were…” She started, baffled. Raven put his hand to her mouth to prevent any further damage.

“Sleeping! You were just sleeping, and we, eh, came to wake ya!” He stammered. A big smile didn’t help as much as he thought it would, but Doven smiled a cute smile and said ‘Okay!’

“But, could all of you please leave? I need to get dressed.” She rubbed the back of her head, as everyone left the room. Xan gave one quick look to see if she was okay, as did Keetz who promptly said ‘Good to see you’ and ducked out of the room. She hopped out of bed, feeling quite warm all around; especially on her belly. She thought it was her two blankets that did it and simply shrugged it off. She checked herself out in the mirror, to find she was perfectly fine. She even smelled nice, and she didn’t even shower yet. But while looking in the mirror, she saw a familiar thing: Goldman’s signature ‘V’ on his helmet. He was staring at her while she was just staring at him. He broke the silence by asking a question.

“Umm, did you mean me too? Cuz I got a few broken ribs and-”

“OUT!!!” She screamed at him. He made a mad dash out of the room, despite his broken ribs. “Perverts…” Doven mumbled, rolling her eyes. She then looked forward to a brand new day.

-End of Chapter

After many years of using the light, Keetz finally learned how to do 'Lay on Hands', the noob. Well, looks like we're back to normal; which means dysfunctional, but you get the idea.
By the way, Xan saw flowers and a little bow on those panties, just in case you were wondering. And no, Goldman hasn't a perverted bone in his body- even if a lot of them are broken at the moment.
So yeah, last post before christmas; I'll do more after the holidays. Hope I get a video game this year ^.^ -peace out, happy holidays

After the revival of Doven, the team was in high spirits once again. Temmie, who still felt very bad for not being able to help her, hung out with Doven the whole day; Keetz was exhausted afterwards and went to bed for the night. That left the girls to do what many girls, even from many systems away, did best: Gossip talk.

“… and that’s why I think this song is best!” Doven concluded, with a grin. They’d been jamming on whatever music played out of this tiny black box; Temmie was most intrigued.

“Well, I think your kind of music is rather… odd, to be frank.” Temmie frowned.

“I told you before; the beat’s everything. It goes ‘boomf, boomf, boomf, boomf’ with other effects, and it makes any song fantastic!” She acted out, being goofy.

“Yeah, but I always liked calmer music; yours has too much… tempo and loudness.”

“Oh, come on! You’re no fun at all.” Doven stuck her tongue out at her, which made them both laugh. Temmie saw Xan head for the shower and got an idea.

“Hey, you saw Xan earlier, right?”

“How could I not? He was staring directly at me and my-“Doven got very flustered.

“Well, all that aside, he was very quirky, wasn’t he? I mean, he just froze!”

Temmie stifled a laugh. Doven mulled it over, and then laughed a bit too.

“Yeah, he looked so embarrassed afterwards too. Makes me feel sorry for him now.”

“What?” Temmie backed up, “After he got a free show?” Doven crossed her arms then looked serious.

“Well, if you put it that way…” She opened one eye up to her. “Yeah.” They laughed rather loud; so much so, that Goldman, who was watching the Tee-Vee, got very steamed. He covered his helmet in a pillow, letting out a loud yell in it. Raven, who was nearby, simply kept on watching the screen, oblivious to the chatter. He did notice Goldman though, and simply replied to him, “Calm down, it’s only the other contenders in the tournament…” which prompted Goldman to drop the pillow, and cock his head at Raven.

“You hear all that woman talk in the other room?” Goldman asked. But it was useless; Raven was well absorbed in the tournament play-by-plays to notice Goldman’s latest temper tantrum. He was wondering why they had been fighting such bizarre deities. None were humanoid; they fought a gigantic creature of immense strength, they fought many lords of the elements, but for the most part, none were as they were. It was surprising, actually, because after watching the previous play-by-plays, there were very few that didn’t have only a pair of arms and legs. Moreover if it were to continue that they had to face such oddly-shaped deities, the new rules would allow only for one on one bouts; and after the experience with Doven versus Magmios, such an engagement in combat would be very unbalanced. It was as if the tournament was fronting all the misshapen lords on the Crusaders.

Yet another coincidence in the Tournament that seemed to have Lord Andorthall as the mastermind behind it all. He must’ve tried to send foreign deities against the young bloods, so their inexperience would fail them. Raven just couldn’t trust Andorthall’s friendly demeanor; not when worlds were at risk. Suddenly a door opened, as a constant buzzing in his ears ceased the moment the door even creaked. He took a glancing look to see Xan out of the shower, wearing his simple pants and belt with nothing else, massaging the back of his long ears with a bath towel. Xan, purposefully or not, was flaunting his over-muscular body, what with all the loose drops of water on his skin making it glisten in the light. Raven, who’s tiny body was nothing in comparison, immediately felt jealous and always regretted taking a blood elf body back on Azeroth the moment of his release. Every warrior made him feel that way, however, so it was a natural thing; he always wanted to wield sword instead of pure magic. Annoyed, he turned away. Goldman kept looking, however; obviously watching the girls instead of Xan. They’d grown silent, and stared at him until he left the room. When the door closed, they giggled and squealed over his looks. This made Goldman slam his head into the arm of the couch multiple times until the arm fell off, letting out much of the cotton and framework.

“I’m tellin’ ya, man! They’re so annoying when some macho-man walks in the room! It’s like a reflex or somethin’, I dunno!” He complained to Raven, who returned to being oblivious. “Freakin’ pisses me off.” He concluded, as he crossed his arms and laid his feet on the table. He looked at Raven, then looked at some machinery in front of the Tee-Vee.

“Hey man, wanna play some games or somethin’?” Goldman asks.

“Games?” Raven quirks. He never understood the concept of ‘games’, and finally being asked to participate in one left him intrigued.

“Y’know, man. Video games, they got a PS-Three Sixtii in here. If they got a copy of Super Smash ‘Em Up: Brawl to End it All, then we’re set. I’m so being-“Raven looked at him funny, which made him stop to ask what was wrong.

“This… PS- Three Sixtii… Is it safe?” Raven asked. Goldman was shocked.

“Boy… You’re more noob than the guys back home. Here, I’ll pick you a easy dude.” He flipped through a couple screens and they were playing in minutes. Raven ended up with a flying green ball called ‘Biggy Puff’, and was beat down to the ground as Goldman’s ‘Captain Bash’. The ‘Bash Punch’ seemed to end Raven every time it landed. Then he was hit with a stunning revelation; what if the oddly shaped deities were easy to defeat?

“By the twisted, freakin’, Nether. He set us up.” Raven whispered. Goldman was too busy mopping the floor out of the little green puff-ball. “He gave us easy opponents: He’s going to kill us in the next round, one by one.”

“Yeah, looks like it.” Goldman commented, eyes set on the game. Raven looked at him curiously. “I mean, I gave you the easy to kill one so you wouldn’t feel so bad when you figured it out later than sooner. I mean, I coulda given you ‘Meta-Mage’, who’s OP as hell, but you’d still lose cuz of how noob you are.” Goldman explained. Raven was in utter shock; Goldman was, indirectly, genius. It could only mean one thing; Andorthall had a new edge for them, like when they received all their old clothes before the second round. With that, Raven left the room immediately.

“Hey, where ya goin’? I only kicked yer ass once!” Goldman called, but Raven was sure he was on to something. He opened the card Andorthall sent them, and a huge bag littered the floor upon opening. Raven called for the team, as they all gathered to the bag. Inside, there was a multitude of weaponry and artifacts, as Raven read from the card:

“Congratulations on the second round. It’s dangerous to go alone, so take these; your old weapons from where you came from. Next round will be dangerous, as already mentioned, so take great care! –Andorthall.”
They all sorted through the weapons, each getting their old favorites back.
“My mystic dagger, wand, and unholy essence!” Raven grinned. “Let the killing begin.” He commented, as the simple dagger and essence began to glow a purple aura.

Keetz, who was awakened earlier, dug through the pile to find his old great-hammer. “Ah, hello old friend; the light’s missed you.” He said to himself, as golden runes on the hammer began to light up with fiery passion. He then coated it in similar light as his arm. It then was a massive weapon of utter destruction, as his light has beaten many as just a hollow frame of it's true form.

“Hey, it’s my gloves!” Doven commented, as she slipped them on. They were simple, black gloves that had similar runes on the back of her hand; runes just like Keetz’ on his hammer. They too lit up the moment she had them. She smiled, as she made a couple shields with minimal effort. “Big brother said these helped because of the Light Runes, and he’s never been wrong yet!”
Temmie dug through a bit, finding her staff of the greathound; a finely grated staff, with a wolf’s head grafted on the hilt. It made her feel more ferocious; unlike her other set of equipment: A mace and holy essence that guided her healing powers. She simply hugged all three, remembering the finer days on Azeroth.

Xan pulled out an entire suit; it seemed simple, rubbery and stretchy. He suddenly tore everything off, then donned his old suit, right then and there; with a couple snickers from the girls. But once worn, it revealed it’s true nature: A form-fitting power suit that regulated his muscle mass, further enhancing his power out-put and muscle control. It had many dense zones around the shoulders, abdomen, arms, and legs, which forced him to use the right muscles at any given time: therefore enhancing performance, durability, and endurance. He looked deeply content with his old clothes back, but remained silent. He did, however, raise an eye at the girls, who couldn’t stop looking at him and chatting.

“Ah ha, my ladies!” Goldman let out, as everyone was all eyes on him. He snickered, and pulled out two large shields, made especially for his arms. “Guys, meet Susan and Susan. I named them after each other.” They all rolled their eyes at his stupidity. However, they were very nice shields. But knowing Goldman’s style of fighting, he must use them as weapons rather than defence. Which, indeed, they fit both roles rather well. Since they were rounded from the back to the front, they must’ve been great for speed, but thick enough to add enough momentum for a powerful strike. He put them on as fast as he could, tightening three tethers to each arm, making doubly sure they didn’t move; as proven by slamming his fists together, causing sparks to fly. “That’s when you know you got em on just right.” He laughed.

With confidence and health restored, the Crusaders were ready for the next round; they all wanted a good fight. And as Lord Andorthall’s near-approximate timing was concerned, that fight was right now, as everyone was ported to the arena for another go.

-End of Chapter
Well, it's after holidays; tomorrow I'm off to go see Sherlock Holmes tomorrow.
(Downey's the BOMB)
With all their weapons back, we're gonna have some more fighin' and more winnin'.
Let's just hope these guys aren't what Raven's thinking: that Andorthall gave them a team that'll send them to chew 'em up, spit 'em out, chop 'em up, put 'em back together again, and do it all over again. Trust me, it's not very pretty.

Andorthall looked down at the five hopeful, cheery Crusaders that awaited him. He frowned; he wasn’t about to admit to himself that giving back their weapons and armor could thwart his secret plans. He smiled as he remembered the next team, however, and rose up to announce the Crusader’s downfall.

“Welcome again, everyone! The next round shall commence the one-on-one matches! The rules are simple: if either team can amass three wins, their entire team moves on to the next round. Today, the Crusaders shall fight separately against their worst nightmares.” He smiled. With that, the arena floor shook, and began to rise. The flooring shaped into a square; with a couple poles on each corner. Raven recognized this as some sort of stage.
“The Crusaders face the Enigmas; psychic deities, who change shape to whatever form fits the weaknesses of anyone. If you’re afraid of chocolates, you will be attacked by a monstrous chocolate bear, for instance.” He and the crowd laughed. Raven frowned, it wasn’t that funny. He also wasn’t just about ready to fight his biggest fear.
“The teams can choose who they wish to do battle first; or let me decide. It’s your choice combatants!” Andorthall sat down, with a grin. There was no way they could survive this one, he thought to himself. The Crusaders gathered around, discussing who would go first. It ended up turning into a brawl between Goldman and Keetz, with Doven trying to break up the two. Raven sighed, but something caught his eye. Xan had taken the stage. It seems he’s gone first. Andorthall smiles, and raises his hand, beginning the first fight.

Out of nowhere, the stage changes; the air becomes heavy and smelly, the poles from the corner of the stage shift to the center in a circular pattern, as Xan raises his fists to his new foe. A large explosion occurs in front of him, and a figure takes shape. Xan focuses his eyes, to see a curvy little thing. It walks towards him, as it turns out to be a beyond gorgeous, scantily clad temptress. She had blue skin, scarlet red eyes, and the most curvaceous body. A piece of cloth kept her large breasts tight together, as a loincloth hung from her wide hips, barely covering her private areas. She was well toned, had long bluish hair, and a voice that brought everyone to a lull. She was beyond everyone’s standards of beauty, and as such were in a trance the moment they laid eyes on her. Even Goldman had a tough time keeping his eyes off of her.

“Hot damn, she’s pretty.” Goldman gawked.

“More like downright sexy. She’s mine.” Raven grinned. Keetz nudged both out of the way.

“Sorry boys, I saw her first.” He said, smiling at her.

“Like hell! I’ma kick yer ass, twice as hard for her!”

Goldman shouted. Doven couldn’t believe them. Neither could Temmie, until even they were in a trance for her. The Deity winked at the entire group.

“Wow… I’ve never thought a girl could be so… pretty.” Temmie whispered. Doven, too, was in her spell.

“I didn’t know I could feel this way towards a girl…” Doven muttered. Andorthall chuckled with content. He knew a master Temptress would bring them down; they all would have to fight her, should one fail. But how could they attack love and desire? Even more so, the effect is multiplied the closer you are to a Sekyu-Deity. If everyone was feeling in love for her from so far away, you couldn’t imagine how Xan might be feeling, with her on stage.

“I just adore a strong man…” The Sekyu-Deity whispered to him. His face remained stoic, his eyes meeting the ground away from her. “It’s been so long since I was with anyone, I’m just dying for someone to touch me.” She grinned. Xan, sheepily, looked up at her. He let down his hands, keeping them near his sides. She made a couple steps to him before he looked away from her again, blushingly.

“Aww, I caught a shy one today. Don’t worry, baby, I’ll be gentle.” She got close to him, caressed his puffed out chest. “My, my…” She whispered. Xan let out a small breath, shakily. “You don’t need to worry. I’m going to take good care of you.” She gripped his shoulders, tightly, causing his eyes to widen. With slow, seductive moves, she wrapped her legs around his waist, and then lowered her cloth around her breast so he could get a better look, letting out a laugh of glee. But when she did that, he gripped her waist with both hands. Surprised, she loosened her grip on him, and he pulled her off of him, setting her down in front of him.

“Mm-hmm, very shy.” She laughed. “We’re going to need to work on that.” She smiled, as she went after him again. She wrapped one arm around his hip, with the other caressing his manhood through his suit’s pants. He let out a small gasp, then backed away, causing her to tumble on the ground. “Owch, bad boy…” She frowned. “I’m going to have to punish you now.” She quickly smiled, seductively in tone. She loosened her cloth around her chest, but Xan stopped her by resting his hand on it. “Ooh! Frisky!” She gazed into his eyes. They were still the same from before he met her. She was perplexed at his acting, but shrugged it off. One kiss, and she’d have his soul, she thought.
“Come on, feel me. I want it, I want-“Xan moved closer to her, almost to embrace her. Everyone was silent, as they were watching intently at her, and at Xan for feeling her. “Yes! That’s it! Give me more!” She cackled, as Xan put his head behind hers, he was so close. But, only one hand laid on her chest. She felt her hip graze the side of his leg, and looked down to see his private area. She was shocked, however, to find he had no reaction to her. She looked in his eyes to see them looking back at hers, in the same look as before. It was odd, but then she realized what was so weird about that look; it was of pity. With that, he shoved her with so much strength, she was thrown and embedded into the arena wall.

Everyone was shocked beyond belief; some even snapping out of their trance. Raven blinked, and saw Xan, triumphant. He raised himself to his normal standing, as he let out a deep breath. In the crumbling wall, the Temptress released herself. She staggered her way to the stage, her image a total wreck: her hair was fussed, she was bleeding profusely on her arms and legs, her teeth were knocked out, save a few, and her face was cut and bleeding her black blood.

“You beast! You animal!” She howled at him, obviously losing all the lust in her voice. “Why would you damage pure beauty?!” She cursed at him. She glared at him but he turned to his team, to see Doven, resulting in him feeling melancholy. But, he rose his eyes to the Temptress again, a fierce glare in his eye. She was taken aback, but couldn’t make sense of it all.

“You fancy her?! The huge-breasted heffer-whore?!!” She cursed. The whole team was taken aback. No one had spoken of their girls that way.

“My boobs aren’t big!” Doven scowled.

“I’m not a whore, you Dalaran sewer hooker!!” Temmie retorted.

“Aw, hell...” Raven, Keetz, and Goldman said, backing away from the angry women. But the angriest of the bunch was Xan. He rushed up to her, fists at the ready. Everyone became silent again, as he was about to punch the loud-mouthed wench out. She put her hands in front of her face, in fear.

But the blow didn’t land. Her whole body shaking, she looked up to see Xan hovering above her. She was scared; as she once again saw his cold look of pity. He looked down on her, because she was all sex and no true love or passion. She wouldn’t understand the true feelings he had for his special someone. She didn’t deserve his feelings; that, or the might of his fist. Instead, he simply turned around, letting her collapse in defeat. She began mumbling to herself why he wasn’t attracted to her, that it was impossible, and how he’d chosen someone else.

Xan just let out another sigh, then closed his eyes. He opened them upon Doven, his heavy heart feeling lifted. With that, he took a seat next to his team-mates after the intense mental battle. He noticed Goldman next to him.

“Dude, you copped a major feel back there. High five, brother.” He raised his hand out to him, in a dynamic ‘Goldman’ pose. Xan cocked his head to one side, and not knowing how to respond, he raised his hand to him, as Goldman slapped it, pumping his fists afterwards. “You’re the man, dude.” He yelled, as he mingled with Raven and Keetz again, going on about
Xan’s ‘awesomeness’. Xan sighed again, restoring his solemn look. Doven went over next to him, with Keetz eyeing them with utmost care. Xan looked surprised when she came over.

“Umm, thanks for putting her in her place. No one’s ever said anything bad about me before, and you stood up for me. So… thanks.” She smiled her cute smile, as he nodded with respect and content. She bounded over to the gang, feeling much better, as he kept on smiling at her.

-End of Chapter

Well, so much for The Temptress (Saran, I call her)
Guess Xan has someone else in mind.
The next fight starts soon, I wonder who it'll be?

After Xan left the stage, Lord Andorthall was outraged, almost visibly. He thought that the true weakness of Xan would be enough for the team’s first real loss in the tournament, but he was thwarted yet again. He was still wondering why it went wrong when Goldman jumped on the stage.

“Hell, if Xan-‘The Man’-Dran got a hot chick to fight, I can’t wait to see what whimpy guy I’ll get!” He boasted, laughing away with cockiness. Andorthall, snapped out of his stupor, looked down at Goldman. He had been a constant thorn in his side since he defeated Spidron with his bare hands. He remembers what certain weakness was given to Goldman during his creation. Humans are a new species to have been created, so inexperience would be their biggest flaw. He gathered up his signature smile, and raised his hand.
A flash of magnificent light summoned the next opponent. Everyone covered their faces at the light, as it swirled and spread about. It made fizzling pops as it dispersed, as everyone began to see what exactly happened. It looked as though Goldman was the only one who didn’t turn away, as he stared at what was summoned: a single man with an aura of pure darkness. He carried with him a flexible, cloth-like armor like Goldman’s, but much more decorated with metal plates on shoulders and knees. His helmet was similar to Goldman’s, but pure dark steel and a red visor. The biggest difference between the two, being so very similar in species and appearance, would be his weapon choice: A massive zweihander blade, long as a man is tall, wide as a tree, and the look of pure evil.

The crowd, as well as Team Crusader, was in awe of the new man on stage. The crowd couldn’t wait to see Goldman sliced to shreds by the massive blade, as the Crusaders hoped for Goldman’s survival. It was all quiet until Goldman spoke two words that shocked many:

“Hey Dad.”

He looked as though the words turned his saliva into venom. There was uproar from the crowd, some in cheers, others in upset and protest, about how a man would have to fight his own father. Even Raven was moved, by the circumstances. The closest to a father he’s ever had was Andorthall, and he hated his guts for putting him and the others through this hell. He looked at Keetz and Doven, each had their heads down. Looking at Xan, he saw the same look; a mourning spite. Goldman’s father laughed, revealing a deeper voice than Goldman’s, only darker and cruel.

“My son… What a surprise visit.” He mocked. “I was about to make cookies. You wanna stir the BOWL?!” He lashed out, swinging the massive sword at Goldman, who dodged by ducking real low to the ground.

“Like I want anything from you!” Goldman yelled. He leapt towards him, rising to perform an uppercut attack, which was dodged by sidestep. With one hand, his father swung his mighty blade, with equivalent speed as he had with both hands, at Goldman’s throat. He turned his head on his shoulder, the blade narrowly missing the cheek of his helm. A sudden thrust of the knee, and they were separated a couple feet. Goldman took a couple breaths, as his father was shifting his shoulder about.

“Well, looks like you’ve gotten better from last time.”

“You always say that, old man.” Goldman shouted, his voice seething. His muscles tensed.

“I do, but it’s only words. I don’t actually mean them.” He shrugged.

“Like how say you ‘own’ the town, Steelheart? Cuz Hero City’s MINE!!” Goldman pounced again, only to have to tuck himself in to miss the mighty blade swinging towards him. Steelheart was without his sword, so Goldman struck; only to have his fist be stopped by the same sword that flew past him, his shield making a ringing ‘clang’. Surprised, he was easily thrown back when Steelheart pushed forward. He landed gracefully, keeping an eye on Steelheart.
Raven and crew were surprised by their similar ability. They were moving so fast. They were all surprised by the sudden rage of Goldman; normally he was a lot calmer than this in previous fights. Or rather, more cocky and loudmouthed.

“What’s going on? It’s like he’s a different person.” Doven asked.

“He has to be, Doven. This is clearly his superior, in speed, strength, and ability.” Keetz explained to her. “It seems he even has different powers too, along with a very sadistic nature. I can’t believe how Goldman is so contrast to him.”

Raven looked at them both. “He’s also better. Look, Goldman’s breathing harder than he is. It could be he’s just toying with Goldman.” They looked closer, and soon believed it to be true.

“Like my new move? I learned it from you, actually. You’d be surprised how many hidden abilities I hid from you. That was the only one you learned, too. For shame.” Steel laughed, taunting Goldman. Feeling aggressive, Goldman charged again. Steelheart halted him easily as last time; by striking the ground asunder. The loud clash of his blade on the ground was loud and stunning by itself. But the crumbling earth of the arena floor was another thing entirely. Goldman lost his footing, and stumbled into Steelheart’s arms. In a bear hug, Goldman was unable to move.

“Get the hell off me!” Goldman struggled. His arms were stuck at his sides, only to be crushed when Steelheart tightened his grip.

“Submit.” Steelheart sneered. Goldman tried his hardest to break free, but couldn’t. He was crushed further when Steelheart squeezed harder. Every time he told him to submit, he’d keep on applying more pressure. He wanted Goldman to cry out.

“Sum-bitch…” Goldman said, through clenched teeth. He was squeezed harder, as he was sure a bone broke on each rib.

“Submit.”

“Bastard!” He felt his shoulders snapping.

“Submit!”

“Man…whore!” He was sure his chest was going to explode. Still, Goldman taunted. Still, Steelheart kept crushing.

“SUBMIT!!!” Steelheart bellowed, as Goldman cried out in pain. He threw him on the ground, looking at the crumbled body of his own boy. He didn’t even break a sweat.

“Y’know…” Goldman said, weakly. It caught his father by surprise. “Ma left ya for a reason.” That made him laugh.

“A reason? And you know this? She never told you anything! Go ahead; tell me what this ‘reason’ is?” Goldman got up, first on his knees, then upright, with his broken arms dangling. His shields slid off with little ease, and clattered about on the floor.

“Well… It wasn’t her words exactly.” Goldman said, with difficulty. “But, you just turned into an asshole.” He staggered forward. Steelheart rushed to him, the blade at Goldman’s throat.

“You truly don’t know anything, do you?” Steel scowled. Goldman was unnerved.
“Let’s face it man. I don’t know my powers, or what happened to you and Ma, or what the hell I’m doin’ anymore.” Goldman confessed. It stopped Steelheart for a moment, at least. “But I know one thing, the only thing that I thought that mattered.” With broken body, he still moved his arms and hand. He nudged the sword away from his throat, more like Steelheart allowed him to, and raised his hands in guarding stance. “That I know right and wrong.” He ached, but readied himself. “And for as long as I’ve known, you’ve been wrong.” He looked at him. Suddenly, a new wind came. Goldman was ready and able to fight again, his broken body seemingly fixed. He clenched his fists and pumped up every muscle in his body. He even looked like he had a heroic aura to him.
“You’re getting ahead of yourself. This is where you DIE!!!” Steelheart lunged, but cut through the air. He looked around for his son, but found him nowhere. The arena was barren, he was the only one. “Well, I didn’t kill you that bad. Where’d you go?” He asked himself. He looked up, and met pure, strong fist upon doing so. Striking his helmet ever so hard, Steel was thrown aback, and Goldman disappeared again. “…The hell was that?” He got up, slowly and dazed. Only to be met by Goldman’s fist again, from below. The aforementioned uppercut, which was dodged from him being upright, was impossible to dodge when kneeling. He was hit with so much force, he was rocketed into the air. He let out a grunt of pain.

That’s when Goldman really let him have it: He jumped from the broken arena floor, and punched Steelheart in the back, having to leap a full twenty yard-length distance to meet him. Goldman and Steelheart each let out a cry, mighty and painful, respectively. Again, Steelheart was sent straight to the heavens. Goldman plummeted to the ground, only to jump again, higher than before. Right when he was about to begin a fall back to the ground, Goldman slammed into him again; punching him so hard, he was out of the boundaries of gravity, crashing into the nearby moon. From there, he had much difficulty of getting out from the darkness. Steelheart’s sword, which was cursed to always be at hand, kept him from getting free. A small glimmer of light caught his eye, however. It was Goldman; he had, once again, jumped from the arena to meet Steelheart. It was then; Steelheart knew what had become of him: He had regained his heroic power from home, and as such, could do anything.

With a mightier cry from before, Goldman let out a massive blow to Steel; punching him so hard he was sent through the moon and towards another planet entirely, which shattered the moon to pieces. From there, Goldman leapt from chunk of moonrock to moonrock, pouncing again at his father. The weightless gravity made it even easier to jump, faster too. He moved so fast and so far away, only Keetz could tell what was happening.

“Light above us… He’s really flying.” He murmured. He saw Goldman and Steelheart going from system to system, just by sheer force of Goldman’s punches and jumps. He didn’t know what to tell his comrades, as they were constantly nagging him to find some answers. It was purely illogical; how could he say that Goldman’s going at speeds no man could go, punching away at his father with strength of Higher Deities, in space?

Soon enough, after a round trip of the systems, Goldman and Steelheart finally came around back to the arena. Steelheart, after being given the hardest hit thus far, was sent rocketing towards the ground, gravity once again taking hold, left Goldman alone in space. Then, with a final war cry of heroism, gave off one final exerting burst of energy; which catapulted him to Steelheart at blinding speeds, seemingly jumping from nothing.

“YOU ARE WRONG!!!” Goldman cried with energizing results. Right when Steelheart hit the ground, hard, Goldman gave one final blow: A single, godlike punch straight in Steelheart’s chest, where his iron mound of a heart would be. The force of the attack was clearly visible; giving off bluish auras, it sent all the dust and dirt in the air upwards and outwards, sending everyone in their seats flying and sent the Crusaders with their backs on the wall. A loud roar of crushing bones, earth, and sound filled the arena; it caused many to lose hearing for a couple seconds. Finally, everything calmed down.

The dust was blown completely away; everyone saw the massive crater created from the impact. It had destroyed the entire arena flooring, leaving only mounds of earth and grass. Inside the crater, Goldman’s fist never left his father’s chest. It was shaking, as was Goldman. Steelheart turned his head, agonizingly, to his boy.

“You know… You’re right.” He whispered, in great pain. A sharp inhale after, he continued. “Your mother… left, because of me. What I became.” Goldman turned his head away, his voice breaking.

“Dad… You’re just gonna come back again. You’ll be sour as hell at me, and I’m just gonna have to kick your ass twice as hard as last time, just like today. Just like before.”

“I know. But, it’s only proper. It’s what I deserve for having done what I did to you both.”

“You never say you’re sorry, neither.” Goldman, loosening his outstretched arm, visibly looked as though he was crying behind that helmet.

“Listen. Before I turn bad again.” Steelheart began, his heart stopped, long before he started talking. “I just want to say I’m proud of you.” Goldman shook his head, in disbelief. Words couldn’t come to him. “Stay strong. I concede.” Steelheart said; as the evil blade came back in his hand. New life stirred in him, as he rose up.

“What did I just say? Kill you all?! Good idea!!” He hollered. Andorthall tried to stop him, but it was too late. He dove at Goldman, who was weakened thoroughly and couldn’t move. It was only a small second before Goldman’s decapitation when Keetz slammed his Light Hammer in Steelheart’s face. He was sent back to Andorthall; who sent him away with a flash of special lights. Back to whatever hell he came from.

“That was close.” Keetz sighed. Goldman turned his head up to him. With an arm out to him, Keetz offered his help. Goldman took it, and stood up; the many bones that were broken before made him ache as they returned when his heroic essence left him. He wrapped his arm around Goldman, and then carried him to Temmie. “We won’t ask from you any more today; you’ve earned some rest.” He said to him.

“Thanks, man.” Goldman said. He then fell asleep, in Temmie’s arms. They knew he wasn’t dead because he snored slightly. They knew he had much to sleep off, as well.

Raven whistled, as everyone else was still in much shock and awe. As awesome as it was, someone still had to finish this round. He looked around, to see if who could get a similar opponent Xan had. He pointed to Doven; as she pointed to herself in surprise.

“Neither me nor Keetz has defining fears or weaknesses. I’d have to fight Andorthall, and maybe Keetz has to fight his old, lost arm, I don’t know. You’re our only hope, Doven.” He instructed, as Doven’s shoulders, and mouth, dropped. Raven then thought that was a bad move. Andorthall went with it, however. Summoning the group to a second arena, having trashed the previous one utterly and without due remorse. Doven was at the center stage, as the final round for that match began. Her opponent, nowhere to be found.

-End of Chapter
After two weeks, here's a new chapter. Be happy.
Crowning moment of Awesome: Epic space battle, having gained new super powers, at least until the music ends.
Goldman and his dad must have some bad history before this, which won't be gone over in this story.
Well, Doven's next: Oh, the agony. She's gonna get pwned so hard.
Btw, I'll be posting new music in the journal soon; once I get the next chapters done. Laters

With much reluctance, Doven took the stage. She wasn’t most fit for combat, almost to being the most defensive contender the entire Tournament, and it was beginning to show. Her nervousness could be seen by all: her shaking fingers and hands, gritted teeth, a glistening brow from a nervous sweat; she looked as if she was about to panic any moment. Andorthall smiled, evilly, at his fortune. Maybe now will the crusaders fail, he thought to himself, as he looked down at who would face her.

Raven looked onward. He ran it through in his mind about what could happen: on one side, Doven’s shield has only failed once, due to turning her strength into a weakness via vegetable steamer. On the other side, she has the most stamina of the group; Goldman and Keetz’ extensive abilities burn them out after a few major attacks, Xan’s huge size doesn’t allow for prolonged movement, Raven himself could go on longer than the three at the cost of his own health, and Temmie’d too busy playing doctor. With that stamina, and low cost of using her most efficient of abilities, Doven could outlast any normal contender. That is, if she can keep her shields up.

Then he was struck by a startling revelation. What if someone could remove her shield? Someone of immense power would have to be able to bend systems in order to do so, her shield could withstand the size and strength of Spidron and stay strong after a bombardment of fire and lava. Who, then, in the entire tournament would be able to down Doven’s defense? A single elf. No, really, that’s who stepped up to fight her. He wore a deep green outfit, consisting of black leather shoes, a shiny golden belt, and a white swashbuckler shirt that pirates wore. He didn’t speak; he simply smiled, like Andorthall. Raven, being of the elven culture, knew who he was almost immediately: Andorthall’s single blood-related child, Andor: the legendary Bard.
With the secret weapon revealed, Andorthall began the battle by raising a hand. Doven swiftly activated a shield, but Andor was too quick. He finally spoke, but it was in a language unique to all. Instead of words and sentences, he was instead performing rhythmic tones and queues. Doven was transfixed on it; a curious look began to spread on her face.

“What in the world…?” Keetz muttered to himself.

“Beats me, I’ve never even heard that kind of music, if it can be called as such, before.” Raven replied. He was about to ask Xan, but the look on his face stopped him. Xan looked as if sheer terror struck him. Slowly and hesitantly, he looked at Doven. She was dancing. She shook her head and body to the song Andor was ‘singing’.

“…. What?” Was all Raven could say. Apparently, Andor had learned of Doven’s favorite beat-styled music, and was using his extensive knowledge of sound to create a fantastic song exclusively for her. The Crusaders were dumbfounded.
“How can anyone like music that just goes ‘Shoop-dee-woop-ba-bop’?” Raven asked aloud. Xan covered his face with his palm. Keetz looked onward with much despair, as he answered Raven solemnly.

“Doven. She likes music that goes ‘bump’.” He said.

“’Bump’?” Raven retorted.

“Like how a hammer strikes the ground, makes a shockwave. It’s how she likes her music; she has to feel it, rather than hear it. Otherwise, she doesn’t like it.”

“So, she’d rather hear a drum, rather than a noise maker?”

“Roughly, yes.” Keetz saw her smile and laugh during her dance, “To her, it’s mesmerizing, as seen there.” Raven shook his head. In his mind, he thought he failed. There’s no way she could beat her favorite music. Andor gave a slight smirk as he had his little songbird dancing away at the mercy of his lips. He then drew a dagger from the back of his belt, all the while still giving her a few beats to step to, and walked closer to her. The group tried to call out to her, tell her she was in danger, but it was no use; she was under his spell.

“Quit listening to those ‘boom-boom-bops’ and get out of there!” Raven called, to no effect.

“Doven, look out!” Keetz called, but was no use.

“…” Xan’s silence has never broken yet, but he simply dropped his fists into the ground in his frustration, failing to get her attention.
“Keep on dancing, girl.” Andor said, to the rhythm of his song, as he was within striking distance. He drew back, the final blow ready, but his victory prolonged by Doven herself.

“Hey man, that’s a nice tune.” She smiled at him, her dancing fit ceased. Then she dug her hand into her cleavage, to the startle of the crowd and to the teams.

“DOVEN!! You change that belittling behavior right NOW!” Keetz hollered at her. Raven looked at Xan to see him blushing. But what she did was of great purpose: she revealed a slim, black device, in rectangular shape which had a wire that split into two, with little buds on the ends of each wire. It was then, a fully rejuvenated Goldman burst into the Arena.

“THAT’S MY MUSIC THINGIE!!!” He bellowed. The group remembered him going on a rampage about something similar from when they met.
“Yeah, in the one place you’d never find it in…” Temmie said, as she rolled her eyes. She was still in process of wrapping up Goldman’s arm when he saw the match on the Tee-Vee. Upon seeing what was his, he rushed to the stage, she explained. Raven nodded, then looked back at Doven. What could she do with something of Goldman’s?

“Ever hear this song?” She smiled, deviously. Making a few adjustments on the music machine, people could hear a little buzzing noise coming from the buds on the wire. With no pockets on her, she laid the black device back in her front, and then held out each bud towards Andor, thumbs upward. Andor was dumbfounded, but saw her shields return on each thumb, which spiraled towards him from the bud outward. It made large discs, big enough to be shields to a warrior, but deep in depth like a bowl. Then, the fun began: using her matter-bending shield powers, the song playing from the device in her bust was multiplied a thousand fold. The entire area within earshot was bombarded by the same beat-music from before, only catastrophically louder. Andor, being of closest proximity, was blown back, into the arena wall, and was being pelted by the shockwaves of every beat. While the rest of the crowd quickly covered their ears, Raven’s sharp hearing took a wild thrashing. He couldn’t hear for a good couple minutes after he thought the song had ended. Keetz picked him up by the arm, and tried to tell him something.

Raven looked onward, seeing what Keetz was pointing out; Andorthall’s boy, his only flesh and blood son, had lost his face. Not only had that, but the entire skin of his body, almost like a first layer of an onion, been completely melted on the ground below him. The music had turned it into a water-like state; it just fell right off of him, revealing blood that was black as night. Andorthall and his son were pale, but that blood they had in them looked to be the cause of it. Still, it was a stomach-churning sight to behold; one without his skin. Raven checked on Doven, to see she was perfectly fine. She looked confused, more than anything, and was looking at the music player.

“That’s funny… I thought it would be louder.” She said to herself. Only a few people heard her, Keetz included, as they all shuddered in fear what would happen should she unleash her true power. Keetz was first to being her back to the group; she bounded happily, a new tune playing in her head. She changed her tone, however, when Goldman demanded his music player back.
“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” She stuck her tongue out at him, as he jumped up and down in rage. He stopped though, when he saw Keetz ready his mace. In defeat, he simply sat down on the ground, finally letting Temmie tend to his wound. Andorthall, however, wasn’t all smiles once the round had completed. He was so infuriated, he simply sent them to their room; the victors over their weaknesses. Raven could only imagine whatever hell he’d send at them next time…

-End of Chapter

Freakin' face-meltin' priests...
New music soon, this chapter will be fun to match up.

Raven looked at the wall of one of the containment rooms, feeling disappointed. Secretly, he began longing for home. Of course, he hadn’t been fighting such ruthless battles since the Higher Plane, but there was just something not right about the whole thing; he began to question why he was an Azeroth-Deity in the first place. There were better to look up to, Raven was a horrid example of a god; lazy, complacent, an unhealthy taste for destruction, and an obsession with sweets were only a few things that made him worse than others. Yet, still, he finds himself missing peace and tranquility; despite his inner doubts.

That peace and tranquility, however, was not here. He heard the sudden outburst of Goldman (This time being his desire to get his music player back from Doven), the clatter of Keetz’ training exercises, the resolving of Goldman’s temper tantrums, etcetera. However, he began to notice fatigue in his colleagues. He saw Keetz’ tired soul after Doven made a rapid recovery, and when he had to square off against Xan for whatever reason. He saw Goldman’s body breaking down on him, many bones being broken from extensive use of his Heroic Power, in which his constant bickering didn’t help recovery. Temmie was exhausted, plain and simple; she had to heal great wounds over the many days they were in combat. This whole thing seemed as if it’d have no end.

“Raven.” A voice called to him. Raven sat up from his bed to see Keetz leaning on his door.

“Hey, what’s going on?” Raven replied.

“Nothing much; just resting after fighting with Goldman, the usual.” He went over and sat next to him. “No way is he getting that black thing back though.” He laughed.

“Yeah, like you’d let him get away with it, if he did.”

“Hey, no one touches her, plain and simple.” He grinned. Raven smiled nervously; probably felt he needed to keep a couple feet away from Doven from now on. He cleared his throat.

“So, eh, how’s the group doing?” Raven asked, as if he didn’t already know the answer. Keetz sighed, and looked at the ceiling.

“Not good. Goldman’s arm hasn’t healed completely yet.” He paused, thinking over what happened back at the arena; how Goldman tore it asunder with ease. He’d fought hard before, Spidron and the Metal Elemental were a few cases, but to be so blatantly destructive; it rivaled that of Xandran’s might.

“That punch he did… What a blow.” He shook his head in amazement. Raven couldn’t believe it either.

“If only he’d calm down, he’d heal faster.”

“Yeah, that’s what Tem said. Speaking of, is she really not a Deity?” Keetz asked. Raven shrugged.

“Nah, she’s not.”

“Well, I could swear she’s as powerful as us; in her own way.”

“What do you mean? She’s barely healing you guys, her power doesn’t compare to-“

“Her willpower...” Keetz shot a look at Raven, shutting him up. “Not once did she back down from her task. She tried so hard to cure my sister, when it was apparent that her time had come.” He clutched his chest with his only hand, holding back some emotion. “She was so upset in losing this person, of whom she’d only known for a few days; I mean, she’s poured everything into our survival. She’s giving more than one-hundred percent.” Raven nodded. Indeed, he had noticed Temmie being extremely tired, but it was due to her hard work and dedication to the team. Not like Raven did much; he’d only fought a few times, lit Spidron on fire, and called it good. He didn’t feel guilty either; he didn’t know what the meaning of it was.

“Well, guess she’s just that kind of special girl.” Raven shrugged, as he started to get up. “I’m gonna check in with Goldman. Ask him how he did that stuff from before.”

“Go ahead, I’ll be here.” Keetz laid down to rest, as Raven went to the front room, where he found Goldman and Doven playing some sort of game on the Tee-Vee.

“Okay, if I beat you, I get my music thingie back!” Goldman hollered. Doven bent her ears back, to help quiet his noise.

“Okay, I guess. But I still have no idea what you-“

“DON’T PLAY THAT WITH ME, I SAW-“Suddenly, he doubled over in pain.

“OWCH!!!” Temmie burst in the room, with a new set of bandages and druid healing ointments.

“Quit moving around so much and calm down, you’re gonna ruin that arm of yours!” Temmie scolded him. He muttered something under his breath, then she slapped him across the helmet. He shut up, finally, after rubbing where she slapped him. Doven felt awkward, so she left to Keetz’ room, leaving only the three to talk.

“So, Goldman-“

“She started it, the little-“Temmie slapped him again. He shot straight up, saying ‘I WASN’T GONNA SAY NOTHIN’ only to double over again in more pain. His erratic nature was shaking up those bones in his arm, Temmie finally got it straightened out.

“As I was saying…” Raven started again.

“Whut?” He mumbled. Temmie tightened some more bandages and was fixing a brace.

“How did you do all that before? The move that broke your arm?” Raven inquired.

“I dunno. I can do anything.” He replied. “It’s, like, my super-power, man. I’ve just been real good at beating the hell outta anybody.” Raven pondered what he meant.

“What do you mean, ‘anything’?” It was a vague term, but somehow seemed fitting; humans don’t normally jump from the moon and back.

“Well, I run faster than normal people. I’m a helluva lot stronger than ‘em too. Except maybe Xan the Man, he’s probably as strong as strong gets.” No surprise there.

“Ever… use a weapon?”

“My fists and feet are my weapons. That and all the stuff I got on’s weighted. I must weigh a couple tons with all this stuff.”

“Wow.” Raven was shocked, at how he went on daily life so normal even with all those pounds holding him back.

“Yeah, you saw me down that spider thing? That’s what I can do with all that stuff gone. Once I go Hero too, forget about it.” He laughed.

“Forget about it?”

“I did all that stuff back there weighing like a truck; imagine what I can do without these things, man! I could- Ow, ow, ow! Dammit!!” Temmie tightened his arm to his chest with the brace.

“You’re lucky you get to go on without that thing for a while, had to fetch Xan to get rid of that ‘glove’ of yours. Now just stay still from now on and you’ll feel better.” She left to get some water. Goldman gave her a nasty look, as if anyone could tell what with the helmet.

“So yeah, I can do crazy crap. Anything else you wanna ask?”
“Nah, I’m good. Thanks.”

“No prob.” He leaned back, tried to get comfortable. Obviously, he wasn’t good at staying still.

Raven decided to go check up on Xandran. ‘So he can do… anything?’ Raven thought to himself. Well, if that was the case, maybe he could defeat Andorthall as soon as his arm healed. But there had to be some limitation to it. Maybe he’s still human when he’s using his Heroic Power? Or maybe he’s truly invulnerable and only broke his arm after the impact set in? He couldn’t figure it out. In the meantime, he had to find out more about Xan’s power. They were nonexistent at this point and time; Xan’s relied on mostly his brute force and grizzly strength, much like Goldman’s speed and matching power. Another thing was that he was the same species as Doven and Keetz, both of whom rely on Light-based powers; he had to have something.