Match of the Millennium

Description: There are two types of people who really love castles: kings, and tourists. Here, one and the other collide, an upstart American encountering one of the kings of Illyria in the ancestral home of Charlotte Christine de Colde, delivering an open challenge as he seeks a worthy foe. Surely, such an encounter can only go one way, but the fair-haired young challenger insists on displaying his prowess against the Lion!

[RAFFERTY]
*****TWO DAYS AGO*****

Rafferty Laurence Stewart opens the email he's been waiting for with butterflies in his stomach. He starts to read the information revealed within it, skimming to get an overall sense of the details before going back to the start and slowly absorbing it again.

The good news is that he's going to be flying to Paris in two days time. He's always wanted to visit the city that's famous for fashion and passion. The bad news is that he's been signed up to fight in a professional match and it's against Leo Whitefang.

Rafferty is aware of the name but knows little else about him. Upon researching it did nothing to quell the rising panic he feels. This man seems like the real deal. As well as being vastly experienced, he's described as strong and skilled with swords. He's also got rather fabulous blonde hair.

The Californian sighs and sits back in his swivel chair, contemplating the situation he's got himself into. He's always been scared of fighting. Back home in San Gabriel he'd sailed through using his looks and charisma to avoid any conflict. Once he transferred to Pacific High in Southtown, he'd has his girlfriend Nena and friend Eden to protect him. He'd never had to break so much as a manicured fingernail.

Then Rafferty had been thrust into a battle against a robotic dinosaur and found that he could perform way beyond his expectations. A couple of months ago he'd encountered a ghost girl whilst eating dinner and when their fight spilled out on to the Southtown streets, he'd flung her around like a ragdoll. His previous image of himself had been challenged on both occasions but he'd never imagined getting paid to fight, beyond some light stunts in television or film scenes.

The thing that's inside him has other ideas though. It insists on pushing him outside of his comfort zone. When he initially allowed it access to his mind and body, he'd believed it would only be his own ambitions that would accelerate. Apparently it had some plans of its own though. One of which, for some reason is for him to become a professional fighter.

*****NOW*****

Rafferty had barely been in Paris for an hour when he was whisked off to the Chateau De Colde in the back of a black Bugatti. As the luxury car approached the impressive building, he'd noted a queue of people waiting outside. As a popular tourist destination it's possible that they are waiting to gain access to the interior. Or perhaps they have come to watch the match between the two men.

Again Rafferty finds himself conflicted. On the one hand he loves showing off for an audience. On the other, he really doesn't want to have to get hurt to do it! Whatever is within him reminds him that he no longer has to fear his beauty being diminished by broken bones or bruises. Whatever will happen here this late afternoon will heal and leave him unblemished once again. Still, it won't prevent any pain he feels in the meantime.

The blonde actor/model has dressed to be on camera, but then he dresses that way even to walk to the local juice bar. He's wearing a short-sleeved vivid green silk shirt and a pair of black silk pants. On his feet are a pair of buckled black leather boots, which may look simple, but cost more than a month's mortgage for some people.

Rafferty runs a hand through his immaculately groomed platinum blonde hair and removes his black Tom Ford sunglasses in slow motion. He may be trembling on the inside but on the outside he looks calm and collected. "Well I'm as ready as I'm ever going to be." He decides, before entering the Chateau.

What's inside almost takes the blond's breath away. Chic chequered tiles resembling a chess board cover the floor, accented stylishly by royal red rugs. The whole place is lit beautifully, which will do wonders for his bone structure on the streaming service. He can't resist reaching out to touch the velvet red curtains that hang at the huge windows, finding they feel as good as they look.

All around the teenager is history and culture. Paintings and pillars are abundant, but perhaps the most striking feature is the skeleton-like figure that is clothed in robes. Rafferty stares at this for several minutes before his attention is captured by another curiosity. A strange imp-like creature with angelic wings and a single claw is depicted. Rafferty can't help but think of the creatures that work for Lyraelle, someone he hasn't seen for quite some time.

[LEO WHITEFANG]
Suddenly: Knights!

An entourage of Illyrian Sacred Order knights, arrayed in gleaming armor of silver and cerulean, bearing magitech weapons adorned with the fruits of their labor within the secluded, shrouded and mysterious independent nation. They line up, forming two distinct rows of imposing metallic dominance, flanking a lengthy red and gold carpeted walkway leading from the streets as a large black limo pulls up alongside it..ready to deliver its occupant. Where did they come from? How did they get here? A mystery indeed... But they -are- here and as the door to the limo is literally kicked open by its burly and aggressive occupant ...it becomes very abundantly clear. -He- is now here as well.

"Who am I?!" thunders the large almost 'viking' like man as he emerges from the limo with a flourish of a long fur lined trenchoat and a rustle of metal and belt buckles.

"You are the king, sir!" speak the knights in unison.

"And am I important??"

"Yes, sir! Very important!" answers the knightly guards.

"Wrong!!!"

Leo's coat flares out in a whirlwind of chi, settling about him like a curtain as The Lion of Illyria strides forth boldly into the combat arena. "WRONG! I'm SUPER important!"

Clearly...Leo Whitefang has not lost any of his sense of self. It may have been some time since he's seen the battlefield but it might as well have just been yesterday for all the bravado he is exuding.

A heavy rolling stride brings him forward towards the wide open area of the battle and he takes little note of the history about him. History is important but again...he is -super- important.

"The lion has slept for long enough in his den! Who dares to awaken him and face his challenge!"

There is a gleaming whirl of magic and metallurgy as the iron crosses gripped in his hands suddenly warp and wharble, extending into massive twin greatswords.

"Is it you??" he asks, grinning with a grin that almost seems like it's invoking a fanged grin. He points towards Rafferty. "Come, young man. Tell me your name and then show me your will to acheive victory!"

[RAFFERTY]
If Leo's entrance had a theme tune, then it would likely be Dance of the Knights by Sergei Prokofiev. Sadly, despite the splendour of the setting, there isn't a live orchestra at hand.

Even without the music, Rafferty's opponent makes a memorable impression. When he first sees him, the blond boy simply stares. It's not often he meets men taller than himself. Not only does Leo have two inches on him, he's also a lot more muscular. In addition it's rare for Rafferty to encounter others that are so self-assured. Other than in combat, the Californian rarely questions how gorgeous and gifted he is. This Whitefang obviously has an ego the size of a planet.

"I am your challenger, fine Sir." Rafferty responds, his honeyed voice only slightly trembling. "My name is Rafferty Laurence Stewart from the city of San Gabriel. I may be of humble origin but I have worked hard to rise in status." He says rather haughtily.

"Before we engage in combat, let me take the time to compliment you on your coat." Rafferty's piercing blue eyes glance down to the greatswords with a gulp. "It is cut to both flaunt and flatter." He continues. "As for victory, I do desire it, but I have to confess, I am not confident about my chances."

[LEO WHITEFANG]
"Your compliment on my garb is noted and appreciated." The mans large baritone voice comes forth with a mix of both appreciation as well as a hint of 'Of course I look awesome' to his tone. Yet he's not being rude, he's just simply a man who sees certain things as fact. He does seem to truly appreciate the compliment.

"As to your chances? Well - my victory is never in doubt, young Rafferty. That is how I approach my battles regardless of the strength of my foe and the odds against me. Even though you may feel as if you have an uphill battle and a mountain to climb, express no doubt and lack of confidence in yourself because your actions speak for you and if you give them shakiness and uncertainty then that is what will be communicated. I am like you - a man who has pulled himself up from humble origins. My title isn't by birthright but one I earned in battle and through elevation."

Leo's blades spin around in his large hands and then clang together with a burst of chi accompanying them as he smiles.

"Come! Battle awaits! I will impart to you the confidence you need and maybe, in the end, you'll be a lion after all!"

His large bod falls back into his signature combat stance now, bringing one sword down before him and the other slightly above him as he leans backwards into a ready position. It would appear that the time for talk is done. "Now then! Begin!"


[\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\  <
Leo Whitefang    0/-------/-------|

[RAFFERTY]
Rafferty likes this guy. He appreciates a compliment on clothing and values his own awesomeness. Rafferty is reminded of himself.

The young American tilts his head to the side as he listens to Leo's commentary. "Are you a motivational speaker as well as a fighter?" He wonders. He's genuinely surprised that this lion amongst men wasn't born with a silver spoon in his mouth. He exudes regalness.

"So you became a king by being a badass?" Rafferty checks, clearly impressed. He's trying to maintain eye contact with Leo but it's hard not to be distracted by the spinning blades. The boy can just imagine them slicing into his firm flesh.

As Leo the lion invites him to battle, Rafferty tries to bring his game face, seeking for an expression that's more action movie than aftershave advertisement. He doesn't quite pull it off. "Okay. I am ready to do battle." He lies.

For some reason Rafferty unfastens the top two buttons of his green shirt, giving a glimpse of smooth skin beneath. He looks at one sword and then the other before taking a step closer to his opponent.


[\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\  < >  //////////////////////////////]
Leo Whitefang    0/-------/-------|-------\-------\0         Rafferty

[LEO WHITEFANG]
'For some reason nideed' -- But Leo has had enough experience in his years from fighting demons to gears to martial artists and ki users to sorcerers both mundane and supreme...not not under estmiate this young fighter even if he is seemingly under estimating himself. Surely the organizers of this event would not have sent a kitten to be fed to a lion, after all. He has a feeling that this Rafferty has more to reveal then he's letting on... and so...

No quarter is given.

Leo bursts into movement. A rushing dash that turns him into a blur of beige, golds and silvers as he closes the distance in an instant...dragging both of his sowrds behind him and then bringing them around in a wdie arcing swing as he attempts to cross past Rafferty's postion and catch him with the blades as he moves past him.

Fortunantely this is not the battlefield of Gears and Demons and so the blades are properly enchanted to hurt - but not literally bisect someone in half.

But hurt they will.


[ \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\  < >  ////////////////////////////  ]
Leo Whitefang    0/-------/-------|=------\-------\0         Rafferty

[RAFFERTY]
For a man of his size, or indeed anyone, Rafferty finds Leo's speed remarkable. He blinks his blue eyes as the shimmering colours blur before them, like some sort of chaotic catwalk show.

The swinging swords seek out the teen, causing an audible yelp to escape his perfectly plump lips. He brings up his right hand to defend himself, but what's this? His hand seems to be extending. Surrounding his flawless pale flesh is a glowing green replica. When he lifts up his natural hand, it perfectly mirrors its movements.

It is this manifestation that takes the brunt of the blade's damage, making what could have been much worse into a minor discomfort.

Rafferty flexes his flesh fingers following the impact, causing their strange twin to follow suit. He looks at Leo with a shy smile before locking his eyes in place with an intense gaze. They suddenly shift in colour, going from their usual striking blue to a stunning green, which seem to flash with energy.

As his lovely face lights up, glowing green psychic lasers shoot from his eyes, aiming directly for Leo. Should they manage to connect he will feel the sensation of burning wherever they strike.


[         \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\  < >  ///////////////////////////   ]
Leo Whitefang    0/-------/--=====|===----\-------\0         Rafferty

[LEO WHITEFANG]
Sometimes having a strong sense of self and an enormous ego can backfire. For one, it means that he has to back his words up and live up to the hype and sheer aura he presents. -Usually- this is not a problem.

On the other hand, it also means there's that much more for psychic energy to latch onto and sink its teeth into and whether by luck or simple manifestation of this fact, that's exactly what happns here. Leo catches sight of the eyes as he turns about, attempting to seize the advantage despite his lack of true purchase on Rafferty - and then his eyes widen as his mind is lit to flame.

The force of the mental assault is resounding - causing the large man to stagger backwards, teeth gritted in pain as the invisible flames wrack his body.. He spins away, bringing his swords around in a wide back handed arc as he attempts some distance between himself and the young man while emitting a grunting roar of both pain and frustration.

It's certainly not an auspicious start - however - the force of his incoming counter attack is no less furious or strong.


[          \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\  < >  /////////////////////////     ]
Leo Whitefang    0/-------/--=====|====---\-------\0         Rafferty

[RAFFERTY]
Rafferty is stunned when his lasers cause such a powerful reaction from Leo. His mouth falls open in surprise and he stares for several seconds before realising it's probably a stupid move to stand still in a fight with such a formidable force.

"Sorry." He murmurs. Does he mean it? Perhaps yes, perhaps no. It certainly seems sincere on the surface.

As the swords start to spin again, threatening to strike, that glowing green hand is once more in action. This time is swirls through the air, swatting the weapons away.

Rafferty winces as the blade briefly makes it through, causing a trickle of blood to appear on his human hand. He lifts it to his lips, licking it away and then swallowing the evidence.

He looks at Leo with a cunning expression, calculating his next move. His green eyes flash, this time not in preparation to shoot lasers, he's merely landed on a plan. He leaps forwards, till he's almost on top of Leo and then reaches out to grab his throat with his telekinetic hand. If he can manage to get a grip, he will start to squeeze the lifeforce from the lionhearted man.


[              \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\  < >  ////////////////////          ]
Leo Whitefang    0/-------/=======|=======\-------\1         Rafferty

[LEO WHITEFANG]
"There's no need to apologize Rafferty! If anything this is simply proof that your lack of confidence was unwarranted because if you can press one of the commanders of The Sacred Order and Second King of Illyria you're a strong warrior indeed!"

Leo's encouraging words rumble with sincerity while likewise echoing some of his rationality. Surely that last exchange wasn't because he himself was lacking. Merely that his opponent is strong and a worthy foe! Logic.

All of this is among the flurry of exchanges that occurs as his blade fails to find true purchase but does indeed press Rafferty into the defense as Leo himself spins back into a ready forward facing stance - coat and belt flourishing about him as he does so.

In doing so that cunning expression is caught - but Leo himself is not without such traits.

No sooner is Rafferty on his way down with that psychic grab does Leo draw his swords back and push his chest forward with a great shout. HIs force of will manifests visibly and openly as a blasting silohuette of golden energy which bursts out from him - chest pushing out ahead of him in a massive burst of energy that collides with the incoming psychic ..

Gold and green impact with a swirl of colors and a burst of force. Much of Rafferty's attack is buffetted away but not all. Enough that Leo is pushed backwards with a skidding of dust around his feet as the attack is redirected back against the young man ..even if at some cost. "Whollfgh!"

[RAFFERTY]
Rafferty puffs up proudly as he is praised by Leo. "You're not what I expected." He admits. "I mean toughness wise of course you are, but I didn't expect you to be so encouraging. It shows real class."

The Californian can't help but appreciate the visuals that are on display in this battle. Both opponents are fine looking men and dressed with flair. As Leo's clothing flies around him, it's reminiscent of a music video. The lavish location makes it seem even more so.

As that green glowing grab reaches out for Leo's neck, Rafferty finds himself thrown off balance. The shout enough is enough to startle the boy, but the chest thrust that comes alongside is what really does the damage.

The platinum-haired poser is knocked on to his backside by the blast of golden energy. Despite this sorry situation, he still finds the time to say. "Gorgeous!" As the energies intertwine together.

Rafferty takes a small amount of satisfaction from the fact that Leo is left unsteady following his assault. He's still on his feet though, so the boy best get up to join him.

Looking down at his psionic right hand, Rafferty dramatically flexes the fingers. Soon his left one follows suit, turning his telekinetic talents into double the trouble. As he curls them inwards, they transform into claws, which he extends out before him as he rushes towards Leo with superhuman speed!

Should he manage to take him by surprise, Rafferty will swipe the claws at him, one after the other repeatedly until he's forced to stop.


[                \\\\\\\\\\\\\\  < >  ///////////////////           ]
Leo Whitefang    1/------=/=======|=======\=------\1         Rafferty

[LEO WHITEFANG]
"Hmmm..."

Leo gives no open response to the compliment for the amazing display of ki control and sorcery that enabled him to project his own aura outwards with such a burst. He's probably too focused on staying on his feet and readying for the counter assault. There is also a touch of rueful irony in his thinking as well. True - he is a kingly man of great strength and among the pinnacle of the warrior caste... But his own faults lay like chasms in his mind. Troubles and gulfs of failure and inadequacy that he simply is well practiced at hiding. Especially here in the heat of battle.

But Rafferty does catch the king's grin once again, eyes narrowed in anticipation as the young man comes charging in and Leo's blades rise up to meet the attacks. The broad sides of both iron cross swords move about like enormous shields, metallurgy and speed working in concert to widen them and reshape them in rapid succession to meet each of the terrible blows.

The sound of the impacts reverbrates through the air, shaking both castle and audience members alike as the Second King is pressed backwards and quickly dances his large frame from side to side to meet each blow until he finally pushes backwards with the last hit that comes - forcing the kinetic energy into both fighters to then rebound and force them apart a great enough distance so that the furious onslaught is disrupted.

His large legs coil, muscles bulging visibly in his legs, pressing like bas relief sculptures through his trousers as he slides to a stop and prepares to spring forward again like a missle.

But then he pauses as if reassessing and regaining his bearings. "You are impressive yourself, young Rafferty." He finally offers, "And a worthy opponent! I dare say we're equalized! But there can be only one victor here...and I intend it to be me!"

He holds his attack, however. The tactician rearing its head over the roaring lion's aggression. The paradox of Leo is that he is a man boisterous, aggressive, proud and driven -- while also enormously pragmatic, cautious and prone to extreme care and careful thinking before he leaps in head first.


[               \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\  < >  ///////////////////           ]
Leo Whitefang    1/------=/=======|=======\=------\1         Rafferty

[RAFFERTY]
"It seems you intend to spoil my fun." Rafferty pouts as Leo fends off his claws with his weapons. As the two of them are impacted by the intensity of the struggle, along with their supporters and surroundings, the blond boy cries out in frustration. There's something inside him that really wanted to sink his claws into his opponent and feel them tearing through his skin and flesh.

As the fighters are forced apart, Rafferty is somewhat soothed by the words from Whitefang. "Thank you." He says, his face lighting up with a radiant smile. "I can't just let you win though, no matter how charming you are."

When Leo waits to attack, Rafferty becomes wary. Is this a trick? He wonders. As he contemplates what to do next, he notices the camera of a photographer is pointing right at him. Muscle memory kicks in and he immediately contorts his body into a flattering pose, lifting his arms above his head and arching his back, whilst his legs angle apart. Some how, some way, it seems a breeze starts to blow through the building, causing the Californian's silk shirt to ripple and his blond hair to blow backwards.


[               \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\  < >  ///////////////////           ]
Leo Whitefang    1/------=/=======|=======\=------\1         Rafferty

[LEO WHITEFANG]
"Eyes here, Rafferty!"

There's always time to strike a pose but as far as Leo is concerned, this isn't one of them. Gracious he may be - but a warrior-king nevertheless. They can pose down when they're done.

The fact that Rafferty may yet be locked in ontot he match doesn't even occur to him in full as instead his legs flex, his body leans forward and then he's suddenly off in a blazing blast of golds, bronzes and silvers. Blades flashing in a whirl of movement. His words have barel left his lips when he's suddenly infront of Rafferty, slowing just enough to be seen attempting to cross the man up with a dashing lunge that then skids to a halt as his feet halt his momentum - and bring him back once again in a second cross up attemt to following after the first.

A shockwave ripples up in his wake, following after the blinding sped of his movements as he turns, pivoting and spinning and then leaping into a lunging rising slash - arms spinning and blades coming about like helicopter blades that drag silver-gold iron chi energy behind them and send a force wave hurtling out in all directions of his leaping slash.

"EISENSTURM!!!"


[                \\\\\\\\\\\\\\  < >  ///////////////////           ]
Leo Whitefang    1/------=/=======|=======\=------\1         Rafferty


[                 \\\\\\\\\\\\\  < >  /////////////////             ]
Leo Whitefang    1/-------/=======|=======\==-----\1         Rafferty


[                         \\\\\  < >  /////////////////             ]
Leo Whitefang    1/-======/=======|======-\-------\0         Rafferty

[RAFFERTY]
On Leo's command, Rafferty turns to look at him directly, his eyes shifting between their natural blue and a glowing green. He relaxes his pose after a final stretch and focuses on the fight again. He's pretty sure that the photographer got some gloriously gorgeous shots of him.

The moving metallic marvel that is Leo whirls towards the model, making him gasp in delight at the beauty. Before long the other man is close enough for him to feel the air he breathes and the boy is forced to bring up his glowing green hands to prevent himself from being bombarded.

This swift reaction saves Rafferty from the worst of the assault, but he doesn't escape without any damage. There's no time to think about that though because there's already another attack to deal with!

The sight of Leo spinning and slashing is simply terrifying. As he feels the shockwave beneath his feet, Rafferty turns his face sharply to the left, his lips forming into a pout and his piercing blue eyes now committing fully to their green glow as he gazes intensely at Leo. The gaze causes the full force of the King's aggression to be reflected right back at him, as well as resulting in several spectators swooning. To add to their spectacle, the remaining buttons on his silky green shirt slip open, giving a glimpse of the toned torso beneath and causing the snapper to pick up their camera again to capture the moment.

"That's my favourite pose Rafferty does." A blonde girl gushes. "It's amazing but I much prefer Blue Steel." Insists her friend.

[LEO WHITEFANG]
That -- was not expected. Indeed, a mistake. A very costly one. If there was ever any question as to the power at Rafferty's disposal - it's been answered now. Whether that alone or some sheer bad luck was also playing a role - the results are clear. That was a hard, heavy and shocking redirect and Leo is sent spiraling backwards through the air, this time landing with a heavy rag doll like impact that sends him tumbling along the ground - clearly shocked and disorientated to the point he's barely clawing his way to staying conscious. In fact it's slipping away.

Needless to say he misses the awesome pose and physique that Rafferty displays for audiences in the glory of that amazing moment. Leo's too busy trying to remember what day and what time it is. Perhaps his own name.

But enough comes back to him that he pulls himself back up to his feet - only to lose his balance and drop down to one knee.

"...It would seem that my reign in this battle in sun setting sooner then expected..." he grunts out. He's disappointed - yes - but not upset. He's discovered an amazing fighter. Who could want for more?

And it's not -totally- over...

"This outcome isn't completely penned in!" he declares, building up more energy. Iron ki boils aorund him - rippling upwards in a cascading torrent as he brings both of his swords above his head and together. THey begin to twist and distort - starting t form a large spear with a lion's head roaring at its apex. "Take my blades, harder then any steel! And add to their strength, my dignity and my grace!"

Leo suddenly springs forward - lunging at Rafferty with the defeaning roar of an astral lion filling the air - followed by his own thundreous cry:

"Windrad des Weltraum!!!"

The force of his attack, should it land, will be devestating. A tremendous impact and an explosion of magic and energy folllowd by the king sliding to a stop - and then collapsing to both knees - fully spent regardless of the results of his assault.


[             \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\  <
Rafferty         0/-------/-======|


[              \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\  <
Rafferty         1/------=/=======|

[RAFFERTY]
The first time that Rafferty realised he had some kind of force within him had turned out to be a most unfortunate incident. When a bratty baby had reached out to punch him in the face, he had instinctively reflected it with a simple glance, earning him the name of babypuncher across social media platforms. His protests that he never touched the child had fallen on deaf ears, but he had known the truth. Now, the abilities he already possessed have been aided by another power, one that promised much and has so far kept its end of the bargain. Whether there's a price to pay for that later down the line concerns Rafferty little. He's living for the moment and right now life is looking pretty good.

The sight of the fallen Leo on the ground is a satisfying one, as much as Rafferty likes the man. He feels the surge of ambition soar through him as he starts to smile. It's too soon to celebrate yet though, as the muscular man is not yet out of this battle.

As Leo rises from his knee with words of determination, Rafferty finds himself caught up in the drama of it all. He starts to imagine himself in a movie, with him playing the part of the plucky young fighter who's dared to challenge the legendary hero. "I believe you!" He calls out to Leo, watching in awe as the energy starts to build around him. He's making a marvellous job of his big moment, nailing the speech about strength, dignity and grace. The reviews are going to be superb. Surely five stars all around?

The California dreamer is so caught up in his imagination that he's taken somewhat by surprise when Leo springs forward. "What does that mean?" He shrieks as Leo calls out "Windrad des Weltraum!!!"

Whatever the definition, Rafferty knows he needs to save himself from this attack. He sweeps his right hand up swiftly and smoothly, triggering its telekinetic twin to follow suit. Holding them out before him, Rafferty visualises his own victory, determined that no matter how formidable a fighter this man he has faced is, it's he who will taste the sweetness of success.

Remarkably he's able to hold the explosion off, feeling none of the punishing pain that would surely have been visited upon him if he'd been unable to resist.

The referee raises their hand, declaring the winner of the match to be "Rafferty Laurence Stewart!" There's cheers from some of the crowd, groans of disappointment from others, but the latter are drowned out by the buzzing inside Rafferty's brain. Approval is his. Whatever wanted him to appear here today is happy with the outcome. Surely he will be richly rewarded.

Log created on 17:22:27 04/02/2025 by Rafferty, and last modified on 13:11:44 04/07/2025.