Description: Kain Heinlein has a fanboy who's named Dante. No, it's not Jiro in disguise. The two are fighting Heidern and Akira. ... I don't think she's a Heidern fangirl. (Winners: Kain and Dante)
Deep within the entrails of this cavern, far from the light of the surface, the area is assembled; A blooming cavern, mayhaps twenty yards around, houses a myriad stalagmites and stalactites, jutting like daggers from ground and ceiling and within the ambient light making it appear that the combatants are about to engage within the jaws of some angry, evil devil. The lighting is very minimal to say the least, halogens hanging from thick cords all along the high ceiling. Shadows dance and writhe, which certainly fits Dante's palette. He's dressed in his facsimile of Kain once more, and within close proximity to the alabaster figure, it could almost be considered a contrasted palette swap. For some time Dante has opted to meditate in the blackness, having said nothing until it was announced that soon the fight will begin. There are no actual cameramen hear today; All are embedded low-light, with many microphones as well. If the entire place caves in, it will suck only for the fighters in question. Something is whispered towards Kain thereafter, before the youth unfurls and takes his place, a few meters from his mentor and opposite the pair they are to battle. Rather then pull up his dangling sleeves, Dante's hands instead ignite into a wash of purple fire, scorching them to ash; It travels up to near his elbow, the echo actually mildly rattling before it dissipates away, leaving naked forearms coiled with snake tattoos. He's yet to take a formally combative stance, but certainly appears prepared for the battle at hand.
COMBATSYS: Dante has started a fight here on the right meter side.
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|-------\-------\0 Dante
COMBATSYS: Heidern has joined the fight here on the left meter side.
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Heidern 0/-------/-------|-------\-------\0 Dante
COMBATSYS: Kain has joined the fight here on the right meter side.
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Heidern 0/-------/-------|-------\-------\0 Dante
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|-------\-------\0 Kain
COMBATSYS: Akira has joined the fight here on the left meter side.
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Akira 0/-------/-------|-------\-------\0 Dante
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Heidern 0/-------/-------|-------\-------\0 Kain
COMBATSYS: Akira has left the fight here.
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Heidern 0/-------/-------|-------\-------\0 Dante
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|-------\-------\0 Kain
COMBATSYS: Akira has joined the fight here on the left meter side.
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Akira 0/-------/-------|-------\-------\0 Dante
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Heidern 0/-------/-------|-------\-------\0 Kain
Low light fighting, hmm? It would be such a shame if the lights were to go out for some reason. People would be forced to rely on senses other than sight. Kain doesn't consider that much of a problem, but he's not sure how well Dante would be able to deal with it. The student would probably at least be capable of staying out of the way under such circumstances, however.
Heinlein stands with one foot perched on a rock, raising that leg about half a foot above the other one. His left hand rests in his pocket, while his right hangs loosely at his side. He gives Heidern a respectful nod, and looks at Akira for a moment. He's not highly familiar with her... But he knows who she is. More importantly, he knows who her brother is.
After the whisper from Dante, Kain turns to look at the younger man. "Don't be too hasty. You can't learn much if a fight ends too quickly. Never hold back, but don't waste any opportunities, either." Kain glances over Heidern and Akira again. "But, you do have a point. It will be a good test, as well."
There is a lingering, weighted silence as Kain and his partner speak between them, save for the ambiance of the cavern. The shadows surrounding the illuminated "arena" are pitch black and still, inky darkness that seems to cling desperately to the dampened walls that surround the fighters. It's creepy. It's unsettling. The shadows themselves seem to trick the eye.
Rather unexpected is the sudden arrival of a third fighter. Somehow, Commander Heidern simply emerges from the surrounding shadows, his tall, lanky form swathed in head to toe with olive-green fatigues, a beret perched atop his skull. Without a word one the man strides forward, black, well-polished boots clicking against the smooth cavern floor as he draws near, to the center, where both Kain and his "disciple" stand.
His boots stop suddenly, a final "click" as booth heels snap together. With arms crooked behind the Commander's back, he looks toward Kain first, his cold features stern, as hard as the rock that embraces the fighters. The nod noted, Heidern simply returns it. Then his eyes drift to the odd young man at his side. The fire is noted, the odd sound produced offered little more than a vague expression of uncertainty before the man simply nods his head to the protege.
He'll let them speak. Far be the Ikari Command to interrupt or involve himself where it is not necessary. Instead the man tilts his head slightly, that single, hazel eye on his face regarding the young woman, his newfound partner for this soiree.
"Do your best," he tells her. While such words may be sincere out of the lips of anyone else, they seem awfully dry, almost mechanical. The man wastes no time; his eyes turn back toward Kain.
Akira isn't very dramatic. She walks into the cavern and says, "Hello? I have a fight sheduled here. I don't know anybody so..." She tries to remember. Is that guy with the eyepatch Heidern, or are the other two? She walks about, looking rather lost, scratches her eyelid a little, and then looks to Heidern as he speaks to her. Oh. Tha must be Heidern. "A, alright." She says.
There's a rather low bow given towards Kain by Dante, assuredly respectful. "But more important then learning here... is that the world knows your strength, Kain-sama." This is mulled in a low tone, enough for the other fighters to hear, yet not the microphones nearby. And then he does something that might be unexpected towards his master; Suddenly Dante's entire body swirls with purple fire, stance shifting while the younger man stands up straight. One palm thrusts outwards in Kain's direction, his voice resolute and firm -- for once missing the rasp and cough that the sickly lithe figure usually endures. "For you, I pledge my eternal allegiance!" A motto that Kain only shared before with Grant; Where Dante picked it up is questionable, but a gout of flame shifts out, appearing to be a serpentine mass. It whirls around Kain a few times, the hooded head rearing up behind him before dissipating. The youth then assumes a combative stance, spreading his legs and squatting down with both hands up, eyes narrowed. "...' At least when Akira shows her 'character', his earlier suggestion might go better heeded.
COMBATSYS: Dante assists Kain.
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Akira 0/-------/-------|-------\-------\0 Dante
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Heidern 0/-------/-------|-------\-------\0 Kain
One could consider what Kain is about to do to be rather mean... But Kain has never claimed to be a nice person. Fights are not a place for being nice. One may sometimes hold back for the purposes of training, but otherwise? You do what it takes to win. And judging by what Kain knows of Heidern's prowess, Akira can be considered the weak link in this team. And if she handles this well... She might be worth looking into in the future.
Heinlein dashes across the cavern toward his opponents, leaping nimbly from rock to rock as he closes in on them. A final leap brings him into range of the schoolgirl, and he slides to a stop just in front of her. Purple flames surround his right foot as his leg swings upward, aiming to slam into Akira's chest and launch her into the cavern wall with a fiery explosion.
"..."
Nothing escapes the lips of Commander Heidern. Instead, that solitary eye focuses ahead, observing the two fighters before him, his features blank. Whatever thoughts may haunt the elder man's conscious is uncertain; his face is little more than a book with blank pages. He simply observes, watching as the...strange young man speaks to his master, dry lips pulling into a thin line across his face.
Still, he won't question the methods of others.
Akira's words likely fall upon deaf ears - or so one may very well surmise. That one, good eye of Heidern's is fixed entirely on the blonde in white. He has had encounters with the man in the past, and they were "painful," to say the least. Though he harbors no feelings negative or positive toward the blonde, he knows well to be wary.
Then, he moves. That solitary eye observes the blur of Heinlein, keeping watch in that briefest of moments. His thoughts race, plans formulated, potential assaults or counterassaults calculated. In the span of mere seconds his decision is made, his course of action leading him across the caverns. Right for Dante.
Lifting a leg high, the Commander seeks to drop it fiercely atop his skull, followed by a swift and sudden drop of the top of his polished boot into his shoulder, to floor the younger man mercilessly, should it strike.
COMBATSYS: Akira blocks Kain's Schwarze Lanze.
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Akira 0/-------/-----==|-------\-------\0 Dante
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Heidern 0/-------/-------|=------\-------\0 Kain
Akira is a little surprised that she accidently became the most talkative person just by asking what was going on. These people are clearly quiet masters or something and even Dante, it seems, may be bad news. She isn't really paying attention to Kain as, comparatively, he's the master, Dante seems to be more the student. After all--he's giving the instruction! And Heidern probably actually killed a guy. Or maybe he slipped onto a letter opener. Eyepatches don't neccessarily mean you're violent!
But it probably does. Dante doesn't make a move--but she hears Kain make one. She twists around and brings up her arms, sliding one foot back as Kain slams into it..forcing her skidding back across the cavern and dragging thin trenches into the ground. Her arms are burnt, and Akira hisses--but she remains standing--even though it hurt.
She blocked that, Akira thinks, and even then this pain... But Akira understands one thing. When in Rome--be as cheap as the Romans do. Akira rolls away from Kain and towards Dante--throwing herself in a flying jumpkick for his body, "HYA!!" She shouts, apparently intending, if Heidern is successful, to keep Dante from being slammed into the ground (though she won't stop the skull kick) but rather to suddenly shift the warrior's moment from down to up.
COMBATSYS: Dante blocks Heidern's Shooter Narnagel.
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Akira 0/-------/-----==|=------\-------\0 Dante
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Heidern 0/-------/------=|=------\-------\0 Kain
COMBATSYS: Akira successfully hits Dante with Dancing Cyclone Kick.
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Akira 0/-------/---====|====---\-------\0 Dante
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Heidern 0/-------/------=|=------\-------\0 Kain
"Oh... it seems they do not like me, sensei." Dante comments, in a sort of false hurt that more entails amusement then anything else. One forearm lazily shifts upwards, catching Heidern's descent cleanly and only sent skidding backwards. Likely as intended, this allows the whirlwind assault from Akira to land true, smacking Dante within the stomach. But he doesn't become airborne much, merely launched about a meter to land in a heavy crouch, rubbing blood from his lips. "Hah." is all he muses, slipping into an offensive stance and then raising one hand, flowing the other back with a slow inhale. Followed by an exhale. Eyes close just a minute before snapping open, the lithe combatant looking more then prepared to fight. He's not going to go down easily by any breadth of imagination.
COMBATSYS: Dante focuses on his next action.
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Akira 0/-------/---====|====---\-------\0 Dante
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Heidern 0/-------/------=|=------\-------\0 Kain
Well now, it seems that both of Kain and Dante's opponent's are focusing on the student for a moment. Kain doesn't appear particularly upset by this, however. One of the best incentives for improving your fighting skills is getting a beatdown by someone more powerful than you are. Increase the number of people, increase the incentive.
Still, Kain isn't going to leave Dante completely out to dry. He gestures in the direction of the other three fighters with one hand, and purple flames begin swirling around Dante. They're unlikely to be dangerous unless somebody stumbles right into them, but they cast flickering shadows around the cavern and serve to mask Dante's movements. And the student will find himself able to move through them without harm, when the time comes.
COMBATSYS: Kain assists Dante.
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Akira 0/-------/---====|====---\-------\0 Dante
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Heidern 0/-------/------=|=------\-------\0 Kain
While his strike may have been successfully guarded, the commander is by no means concerned; following the momentum, the lanky soldier's standing leg pivots as he spins himself around. His other foot plants down shortly thereafter, that single eye of his studying the young man as he's sent landing a short ways away in a crouch. She's spared the briefest of glances, his expression stern as he studies the young woman. The moment passes; one eye turns slowly back onto the youth, who seems to attempt to find his center.
Then, more flames. The visible brow on Heidern's face furrows ever so slightly before the commander draws his eyes to a close. The fight is definitely taking peculiar twists and turns, with student assisting his master, and visa-versa. Irregardless, the soldier's eye snaps open. With one deft motion the lanky commander lunges forward, his right arm crossed over his shoulder, held out behind him. Only as he nears does his gloved hand lash out toward the younger man, aimed for the gut like a razor.
Akira has a couple options. She can be ballsy and try to throw something at Dante as well--but they're just standing there and that feels a little wrong. Especially with THAT guy charging in after him. She glances to Kain for a few moments. He's banking on Dante to do something? She picks up rocks--and chucks them for the flames--trying to knock them away, or off balance--or at least a little less spookily. If nothing else it might be a little distracting. She feels so out of her element.
COMBATSYS: Akira assists Heidern.
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Akira 0/-------/---====|====---\-------\0 Dante
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Heidern 0/-------/------=|=------\-------\0 Kain
COMBATSYS: Dante endures Heidern's Medium Punch.
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Akira 0/-------/---====|=======\-------\1 Dante
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Heidern 0/-------/-----==|=------\-------\0 Kain
There seems to be no real response, Dante suddenly flaring to life as his own fire shoots forth, filling the surroundings in a whirlwind of Ankoku fire. "Haaa..." leaves his lips, before it begins to take the shape -- of a rather gargantuan serpent, of all things. Although he's impacted in the stomach, this fuels the pain and fire that already courses his body, inadvertently giving a final spark to the Ankoku. "...Heh. Shouldn't... focus on me alone... I am nothing to Kain..." And then he merely snaps out his right hand, as what appears to be a giant serpent manifests from his aura, spreading a great hood. It arches out with monstrous speed, shooting left and right in peculiar writhes while seeking out... Akira, trying to coil around her tightly. The blazing entity would then try to sink in those peculiar fangs, before abruptly detonating in a resounding explosion that would shake the ground, and blow out one of the nearby lights. On the off chance she evades it, it would eventually dissipate; But not without a frantic chase...
Indeed, not paying attention to Kain can be rather dangerous. He's given Dante the chance to try out his ploy, although it remains to be seen how well it work. Now, though, it's time to really get down to business. He can start by giving his student just a little bit more assistance before he turns his attentions on Heidern. That's where Kain's /real/ fight will be.
Running up behind Akira, Kain leaps forward into a flying kick, aiming to drive a foot into the center of Akira's back, immediately followed by a wave of flame rushing forward from his leg. Ideally, it will serve to knock the girl right into Dante's attack. If not... Well, Kain has little doubt that he can avoid getting caught up in it himself.
The Ikari Commander jerks forward, zeroing in on the disciple of Heinlein without mercy. In one smooth motion the elder man's gloved fingers lancing out, slicing cleanly across the man's midriff. Whatever it accomplishes for the youth by simply taking the blow, Heidern worries not; instead the soldier ducks aside, deftly weaving out from before the young man and off to his side. Though he speaks, the cycloptic soldier's features remain the same: stern and unyieldingly cold.
It mirrors well the feeling between the two fighters they stand down against.
Fire bursts forth from the young man before Heidern, violet flames coiling up before they lance out at Akira. Frowning, the soldier does one thing: dashing forward again, he reaches out with long, claw-like gloved fingers and attempts to snare the young man. Moving deftly, he attempts to lodge a knee into the man's gut before he'll simply sweep that same foot out and try to fell the odd youth. Kain can wait, for now.
COMBATSYS: Dante successfully hits Akira with Death Adder.
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Akira 0/-------/=======|-------\-------\0 Dante
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Heidern 0/-------/-----==|=------\-------\0 Kain
COMBATSYS: Kain successfully hits Akira with Schwarzer Stob.
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Akira 1/---====/=======|-------\-------\0 Dante
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Heidern 0/-------/-----==|====---\-------\0 Kain
Ouch describes the multitude of agony heading Akira's way. Describing it would do a kind of disservice. He is kicked in the back by Kain's strike ands, helplessly, thrown into Dante's. She's starting to see why Ken formed the League--it's really annoying to be picked off as the weak link.
"Hm." She comments as she slowly ulls up to her feet. "I guess the spirit of the warrior doesn't really account for much in these fights, but money talks. It's alright."
Akira suddenly darts at Dante. She throws her foot down, aiming to catch Dante as he is hopefully slammed into the ground--if not, at least it's a foot problem. She then seeks to kick him up in the air, throw three quick kicks at his body before finishing off her combo with an uppercut. She's too tired to focus her strength with a shout.
COMBATSYS: Akira successfully hits Dante with Haten Mueishu.
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Akira 0/-------/-------|======-\-------\0 Dante
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Heidern 0/-------/-----==|====---\-------\0 Kain
COMBATSYS: Heidern successfully hits Dante with Quick Throw.
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Akira 0/-------/-------|=======\==-----\1 Dante
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Heidern 0/-------/----===|====---\-------\0 Kain
There was really nothing to do; Kain can at least attest to that. His chances were absolutely nothing, and only a stroke of fate would of allowed him to survive. But he faced it head on, letting out almost a laugh, utterly fearless. "Show me what you have..." An attempt was made to block Akira's onslaught, but fails; He's struck at the ankles even as he's swept into the onslaught, and when his body impacts the ground some distance off, it's a bit too late for Kain's disciple. He manages to shakily get back to his feet, breathing heavily and spitting blood. "...Heh..." He's completely limp and broken, but his SPIRIT BURNS ON. And then he shoots towards Akira, right fist slamming in an attempt to catch her in the heart with a flame-imbued fist. "HIYAH!" And he'd flow thereafter into 7 vicious chi-imbued stikes, a final palm-hand attempting to end it. He looks like he's about to go further. But he literally cannot. The stress on his body, forcing the already weakened physiology to that limit, takes the toll. Dante blacks out, and crashes face-first upon the ground.
COMBATSYS: Dante can no longer fight.
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Akira 0/-------/-------|====---\-------\0 Kain
[ \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ <
Heidern 0/-------/----===|
And so Dante's contribution to the fight ends. Kain's not going to pause to check on his state of health, however. There'll be plenty of time after the fight to see if Dante did a sufficient job of surviving that assault. For now, the real fight begins.
Kain wastes no time in closing the distance between himself and his opponents, but now his focus seems to be on Heidern. It's about time the two of them clashed, isn't it? He doesn't do anything as simple as approaching the soldier via a straight path, however. Leaping from one rock formation to the next, Kain finally jumps down to land in a crouch in front of Heidern. His recovery time is almost instant, and a glowing blue fist rockets out in an attempt to slam right into the soldier's solar plexus.
COMBATSYS: Heidern blocks Kain's Fierce Punch.
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Akira 0/-------/-------|====---\-------\0 Kain
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Heidern 0/-------/---====|
COMBATSYS: Dante successfully hits Akira with Black Mamba.
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Akira 0/-------/-----==|====---\-------\0 Kain
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Heidern 0/-------/---====|
With one fell swoop, Dante is out of commission.
The commander steps back post-attack, giving his teammate room to breathe, so to speak. She does not disappoint; making her move, she deftly takes out the disciple, a display of skill and prowess, despite her age. Heidern's eyes observe with muted interest. Then, once the young man falls to the ground, the commander's gaze turns slowly toward Kain.
Heinlein moves with impressive speed, but the commander makes no move to avoid it; instead, the elder man slides into his odd stance, waiting. Only as the younger man lashes out does he do so; catching that fist, the man's teeth clench briefly, gloves hands squeezing tightly around the fist. He offers the faintest of grins.
With one smooth motion Heidern lifts his leg up high before he suddenly drops it, the polished heel of his thick boot aimed for Kain's skull.
Dante's final technique hurts. Akira notes that it hurts less than Kain's casual SMITING but it's still rather painful as she's caught in the stomach by Akira's Dante's fist and goes down. Did he just even the odds for Kain?
Akira breathes, on her knees--but still standing. She spits out blood once. And then tries to breathe again and ends up vomiting out more.
Akira stands up, looks towards Kain--and considers that yes, this is going to hurt a lot. Might as well lend Heidern a hand before she passes out. Yeah, that'd be awesome. Totally.
She stands up. Ouch. Ouch. Ouch.
Akira turns towards Heidern, "Thank you." She manages, stumbling briefly-- then she tries to twist behind Kain while he's distracted by Heidern's boot--and tries to grab him by the back and arm--and throw him into the ground. Akira's movements are significantly slower than normal.
COMBATSYS: Kain blocks Heidern's Medium Kick.
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Akira 0/-------/-----==|=====--\-------\0 Kain
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Heidern 0/-------/---====|
COMBATSYS: Kain fails to interrupt Quick Throw from Akira with Light Kick.
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Akira 0/-------/-----==|=====--\-------\0 Kain
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Heidern 0/-------/---====|
As Heidern's leg comes sweeping down, Kain's arm comes racing up. His arm moves slightly underneath the impact, but doesn't manage to break through. It does, however, leave Kain somewhat less prepared to deal with the incoming attack from Akira. His plan for dealing with her is still fairly simple, though. As Akira reaches out for him, Kain twists around to lash out with a quick kick to her temple.
It seems, however, that Akira is going to be able to give Heidern some real help after all. His arm isn't in reach, but he /has/ conveniently put his leg where she can grab it. And once he's yanked forward, that's also one less leg to help keep himself from falling to the cavern floor.
The thanks from Akira is heard, gracing the sharp ears of the soldier. For a moment the man turns his gaze toward the young woman, that single eye peering at her. The silence he wears is almost suffocating. Still...the man manages one thing to her: a nod. She's welcome.
The fight at hand, however, takes precedence over much of anything the Ikari commander ponders. Kain moves, blurring forth and lashing out at the man, but his attack is thwarted with little more than a gloved hand snaring it, catching it out of the air. A beat and the man lifts a leg up, high. He tries to send Heinlein crashing into the ground. Faster than anticipated, Heidern's boot crashes against a forearm.
Pushing back, the Ikari commander separates himself from the other man briefly. It gives the girl time to lash out in succession, snaring the blonde and tossing him to the ground, despite the attempt to smack her in the head. He's down.
Seeing this as an opportunity of sorts, Heidern bolts forward before he simply plants a boot's heel against the cavern floor. Sliding to a halt at Heinlein's side, Heidern's gloved hand reaches high into the air above, long, deadly fingers forming a knifehand above. A split-second later it descends, to cleave a path straight through poor Kain's midsection, should he not be swift enough.
Akira can't reach for the arm and back while Kain is KICKING at her--but perhaps it's the injuries she has accumulated, perhaps it's the fact that she tried to hit Takuma with a table and was righteously punked for it and perhaps some of Takuma's spirit transfered into her or something. Akira doesn't really know, she's pretty surprised as she grabs the kick before it hurts her and forces Kain down. She blinks, looking stunned. She decides to try being a little riskier--foolish, perhaps, but she's badly hurt. She lets Heidern take the lead, and when she thinks Kain is distracted--tries again to slam Kain back into the ground with her arms.
COMBATSYS: Heidern successfully hits Kain with Lead Belcher.
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Akira 0/-------/-----==|=======\-------\1 Kain
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Heidern 0/-------/--=====|
COMBATSYS: Akira successfully hits Kain with Strong Throw.
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Akira 0/-------/----===|=======\=------\1 Kain
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Heidern 0/-------/--=====|
Kain attempts to knock Heidern's descending hand aside, but only manages to get a cut in his arm as well as his abdomen when Heidern's razor sharp fingers slice into him. He starts to get up, only to have Akira slam his shoulders back down into the floor. With a low growl he leaps up and away from Akira, attempting to grab Heidern.
He just wants to hold on for a few moments, as his entire body suddenly explodes into a raging pillar of fire, which reaches all the way up to the cavern's ceiling. The sudden light may be disorienting to Akira and Heidern after all this time in the dim cavern, but Kain is more concerned with the effect that being hit with the source of that light may have on Heidern, who will be tossed aside when the inferno dies down.
COMBATSYS: Heidern fails to interrupt Schwarze Kreuz from Kain with Moon Slasher.
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Akira 0/-------/----===|=======\====---\1 Kain
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Heidern 1/-------/=======|
Once fingers bury into the man's gut Heidern dips low and slides aside. It allows the girl time to come forth and plow Kain right back into the ground, very likely irritating the man. Heidern seems unfazed; instead he simply moves, striding back a few steps before he slides into a stance and holds himself with caution.
Unfortunately, Kain has plans for the Ikari CO now. His form explodes into violet flames, and try as Heidern may to slice THROUGH them with a counterattack of chi, the man is struck and thusly blow back, rolling across the cold cavern floors rather unceremoniously. Grunting quietly, the elder man rises to his feet, that single eye gazing intently at the man before him.
Akira doesn't seem worried about Heidern. That guy has an EYEPATCH. She squints at the light and slides back, but turns her gaze to Heidern...
As he rolls across the cave in a way that is kind of humiliating. Understandable. But youch. A phrase enters Akira's mind: Oh crap.
She has to protect him--he protected her. It might be retarded but she lets out a yell to try and get Kain's attention--and throws herself at him in a flying jump kick! "HIYAAH!!"
COMBATSYS: Akira successfully hits Kain with Dancing Cyclone Kick.
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Akira 0/-------/---====|=======\=====--\1 Kain
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Heidern 1/-------/=======|
Akira is proving to be both persistant and effective. Traits that Kain can admire. Admiring doesn't mean that she isn't becoming a nuisance, however. Kain risks a glance in her direction at the shout, only to have her foot blow into him and send him stumbling back a few paces. Annoying.
Kain would really rather be able to just concentrate on Heidern, so it's time to take Akira out of the equation. Even before she hits the ground from her last attack, Kain lunges forward. He reaches out with one arm, attempting to snare her by the ankle of the leg that just kicked him. Should he succeed, he'll proceed to whip her around and hurl her into one of the cavern walls. Hopefully that will settle things.
Recovering from the fall, Heidern rises to his feet, that solitary dark eye gazing at the man across the cavern. Kain is lethal; he knows well, first hand, the pain his fire brings. Reintroduced to those potent flames, Heidern lifts a gloved hand and rubs his face slowly, his jaw tensed. Clearly he needs to focus better on his tactics.
Thus does he spare a moment to do just that. Easing into his stance, a strange red haze dances about his lanky form, veins of crimson chi energy snaking their way up his legs and around his arms as he pools his energy and focuses on his tactics. Akira seems capable for the moment; striking Kain, he's sent flying back once again by her hand. Her tenacity is impressive. He'll give her that much.
COMBATSYS: Heidern gathers his will.
[ \\\\\\\ < > ////////////// ]
Akira 0/-------/---====|=======\====---\1 Kain
[ \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ <
Heidern 1/---====/=======|
COMBATSYS: Kain successfully hits Akira with Quick Throw.
[ \\ < > ////////////// ]
Akira 0/-------/=======|=======\=====--\1 Kain
[ \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ <
Heidern 1/---====/=======|
Kain does what he probably should've done a little while ago--take Akira out. Akira is predictably low weak and tired even if her tenacity proved to be greater than the beatdown she received--but tenacity is a talent. Skill and power have to be trained and Kain has tenacity too. Akira's just evened the odds a bit.
Akira is caught by her leg and flung--and slams into the cavern wall. With a gurgling noise--Akira lunges forward and tries to tackle Kain across his legs with her last remaining strength--then passes out.
COMBATSYS: Akira can no longer fight.
[ \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ < > ////////////// ]
Heidern 1/---====/=======|=======\=====--\1 Kain
COMBATSYS: Kain dodges Akira's Quick Throw.
[ \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ < > ////////////// ]
Heidern 1/---====/=======|=======\=====--\1 Kain
As far as Kain is concerned, Akira has done well enough to be worthy of some respect. She's not as good as her brother, of course, but she's still shown that she's not a weakling. At least, not when it comes to fighting. Sadly, some people don't apply the focus they use in combat to other aspects of their lives.
Still, now that she's dazed it isn't too hard for Kain to avoid her final lunge. When the student leaps for his legs, Kain simply leaps up into the air and over her, letting her go sliding across the stone floor. But why wait to land before turning the fight back in Heidern's direction? Sweeping an arm out toward the soldier, Kain sends a wave of purple flame slicing through the air in Heidern's direction before his feet touch the ground once more.
COMBATSYS: Heidern blocks Kain's Schwarze Flame.
[ \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ < > ///////////// ]
Heidern 1/-======/=======|=======\======-\1 Kain
The girl did her best, all things considered here. She stood up in the face of seeming adversity and proved to be a valuable asset during the engagement with Kain and his subordinate. Now, however, her luck has run dry. Snared by the blonde, she's sent crashing into the nearest wall. Yet she's not down. Looking aside as Akira gives one last burst of strength, he seems vaguely impressed.
Alas, it's not enough.
Now all that remains is for Heidern to square off against Heinlein. Lifting that single eye toward the blonde, the Ikari CO's jaw and neck tight, tensed as he considers and weighs his options. But there's precious little time; a burst of fire draws the man's attention, the one-eyed commander's gaze focusing on the blonde as the fire crawls toward him. In response Heidern simply lifts his arms up and intercepts the burst of fire, letting it crash against his arms.
Yet he doesn't move immediately. Holding his ground, Heidern slides a foot out behind him, letting the other plant firmly before him, his gaze stern. Then, without warning, Heidern lashes forward, bursting across the gap between them before he snaps a leg out from his side, to smack Kain in his ribs with the toe of his boot.
COMBATSYS: Kain fails to interrupt Light Kick from Heidern with Himmlischer Atem.
[ \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ < > /////////// ]
Heidern 1/-======/=======|==-----\-------\0 Kain
One thing about fighting in a cave... You have to stay aware of your surroundings. It's easy to slip and fall, unleashing a powerful attack at the wrong point could bring about a cave in, and then there's always the danger of pits and unexpected tunnels. This thought comes to mind for Kain when he realizes that he's got his back to one of said pits, and Heidern is racing toward him. He's not worried, though. He raises one hand toward Heidern, a flare of blue light springing into being...
...and then Kain gets kicked in the chest. It doesn't really hurt a whole lot, but it's enough to force Kain back a step. Except there's nothing to stand on. His eyes widen as he vanishes over the edge of the pit, and quickly drops out of sight. A split second later the cavern is filled with light as a brilliant column of blue energy shoots up out of the pit, blasting up into the roof of the cavern. And right through it. Chunks of rock fall from the ceiling as the entire cavern rumbles, but refrains from collapsing. When the dust clears, though, there's a beam of sunlight filtering down from the new hole drilled all the way to the surface... And Kain is nowhere to be seen.
Unless one walks over and looks into the pit. Seems there's another cavern down there, and the fall was only about twenty feet. Still wasn't exactly pleasant for Kain, however.
Here, perhaps, Heidern has an advantage of sorts. As a seasoned soldier, his travels and missions have taken him across all reaches of the globe - and a cavern is no exception. He knows well to be wary and cautious of his surroundings. He's been playing it safe thus far, minding his step and movements within these dark, dank confines, barely illuminated by the halogen lights. But for a moment's time, Heidern makes a fool's rush. He charges right for Kain, regardless of whatever may be in store.
It proves a valuable motion. The boot clips the man in his ribs, sending him staggering, along with his flames. He stumbles briefly, but soon vanishes over a pit's edge. Blinking that solitary eye, the commander stands back, away from the edge. A split-second later, a column of pure energy shoots up, stretching high above and blasting a hole through pure rock. It's frightening, the strength of Kain's fire.
The elder man approaches the edge, his eye glancing down. Where sunlight touches, he spies the man in white, down in the depths below him. So far, Kain has spared no mercy.
Neither shall Heidern.
Crouching briefly, the man springs up into the air before he literally DIVES down into the pit, long, deadly fingertips reaching out for the man's shoulders...
COMBATSYS: Kain blocks Heidern's Final Bringer.
[ \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ < > //////// ]
Heidern 0/-------/-----==|====---\-------\0 Kain
This time, at least, Kain manages to deflect Heidern's hands with his arms. The soldier's hands dig a long slash down Kain's arm, but it's a shallow wound; hardly worth thinking about. Heinlein then quickly rolls out from underneath Heidern before the landing is finished, quickly springing to his feet a short distance away. This cavern is smaller... But it seems Geese even thought far enough ahead to have cameras placed here. Wouldn't want the audience at home to miss a moment of the fight.
Kain doesn't even seem to notice the blood dripping from his wounds, and he seems to be slowing down only slightly from the damage he's taken thus far. He still seems to be in the game as he rushes toward Heidern, throwing out a glowing left hook at the soldier's face in an attempt to capitalize on his blind spot.
COMBATSYS: Heidern blocks Kain's Medium Punch.
[ \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ < > //////// ]
Heidern 0/-------/----===|====---\-------\0 Kain
Long fingers curl the moment they make purchase against cloth and flesh. Digging against the blonde's arm, it slashes through his attire, but otherwise he is spared the full brunt of the attack. In fact, Heidern doesn't bother; instead he pushes off the younger man and lands a short distance from him. Stern features remain cool, calm and utterly composed. He is not the least-bit ruffled by all of this.
Kain's attack is seen, the hiss of cloth and fabric gracing his ears. Lifting his arm, Heidern's forearm intercepts the incoming left hook. A split-second thereafter the Ikari CO twists, hands gripping down on the man's arm, the other coming in toward his chest. He attempts to heft the man from the ground and send him sprawling down across the ground beneath their feet.
COMBATSYS: Kain just-defends Heidern's Quick Throw!
[ \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ < > /////////// ]
Heidern 0/-------/----===|====---\-------\0 Kain
Kain will be having none of that at the moment. Heidern's hands touch cloth, but Kain twists his arm away before the commander can get a firm grip. Heinlein quickly sidesteps his opponent and shoves him aside, giving the blond some breathing room for a moment. He could press the attack, but perhaps a moment to reorient himself is in order.
A quick leap brings Kain within reach of the edge of the pit, which is impressive in itself. The grace with which he is able to flip himself up and over the edge using only one hand even more so. He lands a short distance from the edge, turning to face the direction from which Heidern must necessarily come. A soft blue glow surrounds him for a moment as he concentrates on the flow of energy through his body, shifting it toward where it will do most the good. He'll need to be in as good a condition as possible to finish this fight.
COMBATSYS: Kain gains composure.
[ \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ < > /////////////// ]
Heidern 0/-------/----===|==-----\-------\0 Kain
Hands deflected, the Ikari CO simply flows with the moment, recoiling as Kain himself steps back for breathing room. He wants to take a moment to collect his thoughts? Fine.
Following behind the blonde, Heidern too leaps out of the pit, clambering swiftly over its edge opposite of Kain. Once he has his bearings the one-eyed man turns slowly, staring down the other man without so much as a smirk or a scowl. He just stares. This itself is relatively disarming, almost frightening. His cool is impeccable.
He wastes no time once again - charging forward, Heidern hefts his leg high above, knee bent as he attempts to slam it against Kain's skull, followed by the top of his foot to the man's shoulder. He remains silent the entire time he attacks Heinlein.
COMBATSYS: Kain just-defends Heidern's Shooter Narnagel!
[ \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ < > //////////////// ]
Heidern 0/-------/----===|==-----\-------\0 Kain
Once more Kain reaches up with one arm to deal with a descending leg from Heidern. This time, however, he doesn't just block it. Heinlein's hand closes on Heidern's wrist, yanking down to slam the soldier's foot into the stone floor of the cavern. Amazing what one can do when one takes a moment to prepare for further combat, rather than just foolishly expending energy.
A quick kick off the floor leaves Kain suddenly upside down, supporting himself with one hand on the floor and one hand gripping Heidern's ankle as his foot shoots upwards toward the one-eyed man's jaw. Kain quickly releases Heidern's foot, not wanting anything to hold the man back should the explosion in his face send him sprawling.
COMBATSYS: Heidern fails to interrupt Schwarze Lanze from Kain with Neck Rolling Slashes.
[ \\\\\\\\\\ < > //////////////// ]
Heidern 0/-------/-======|=====--\-------\0 Kain
As Kain moves, Heidern keeps a close eye on the man, watching his movements closely. He prepares himself, readying his body for a swift counterattack. The man observes as the blonde is upside down suddenly and, with one motion, steps in, attempting to snare Kain by his leg and send it through the proverbial grinder. It doesn't work; struck through is defenses, Heidern is sent flying back after a blast rocks his jaw, sending him rolling a few yards back.
Then, after, the man slowly rises, a hand brushing over his lip and jaw, the tiniest of smirks daring to haunt his lips.
When Heidern gets blasted away, Kain is quick to flip himself back over onto his feet. He casts a similar smirk in Heidern's direction as his hands spring into flame. This is the way things should be... A real test of skill and strength. A few wounds are a small price to pay for the chance to continue to improve his abilities.
Kain thrusts both of his hands out toward Heidern, and the flames leap forth as a pair of burning orbs. They spiral around one another in a tight pattern, racing toward the mercenary at a rapid pace, sending flickering shadows dancing through the cavern as they pass.
COMBATSYS: Kain successfully hits Heidern with Schwarze Flame.
- Power hit! -
[ \\\\ < > /////////////// ]
Heidern 1/-----==/=======|=======\-------\0 Kain
Winded now, the Ikari CO visible shows his wear. Shoulders rise and fall with each breath, shoulders sagging heavily as he tries to hold his stance. His tenacity is strong. He knows he's practically outmatched here, but he won't give in just yet. Furrowing his brow, that singular, hazel eye just observes Kain.
Again, flames. Lifting his hands up, Heidern attempts to shrug off the attack with his forearms. He's struck fiercely, however; blasted back, the man rolls a few turns before he springs to his feet. It doesn't stop there. With newfound vigor the man handsprings and leaps feet-first for the nearest wall. Rebounding, he drives his knife-like hand forward, toward Kain's gut, attempting to lodge it deep...
COMBATSYS: Heidern successfully hits Kain with Heidern End.
[ \\\\\\ < > ///////// ]
Heidern 0/-------/-------|=======\==-----\1 Kain
With his fingers deep within the bowels of Kain, those fingers twitch viciously, squirming around his insides. With such close proximity, Heidern's single, good eye gazes straight into Kain's own, his jaw squared and his entire body tense. There is a thick silence that lingers about him, worn like an imposing shroud as he looks upon the blonde.
"We should talk again sometime, Heinlein," he states.
A second later the man's hand rips out of Kain's gut, a spray of red flying as he steps back. All over Kain's body a fierce fire erupts, blasting the younger man back as it sets him ablaze briefly before it snuffs out. Heidern turns thereafter, his back to Kain as his hand shoots out the side, flecks of blood staining the floor of the cavern.
Kain hits the ground rolling, managing to stop himself in a kneeling position with one hand over his wounded stomach. He's felt that before... And that's a wound that's actually going to need some tending to when this is over. That time should come shortly, however. "Indeed. Preferably someplace a bit more hospitable, however."
Pleasant words, but they don't mean Kain is done fighting. A bright blue glow spreads over his entire right arm, and then with a sweeping motion at an upward angle across his body he sends a diagonal wave of blue chi racing toward Heidern. The first hint that an explosion isn't what needs to be worried about here comes when the lower edge of the arc slices right through the edge of a stalagmite partially in its way.
Just a moment later Kain's left arm makes a similar motion, but this time the blast is aimed at the ceiling, rather than Heidern. There's no intention to cause a cave in... Most of the energy involved was sent in Heidern's direction. This is just to send some stalactites crashing down between the two men, just in case Heidern has any bright ideas about attacking Kain.
COMBATSYS: Kain successfully hits Heidern with Himmlische Seele.
[ < > //////// ]
Heidern 0/-------/--=====|==-----\-------\0 Kain
When Kain speaks, the soldier turns and faces him once more, sporting nothing. There is no frown or a smile on his face. He just remains utterly expressionless. He flicks his gaze briefly, to observe the red that stains the front of Kain's attire, but says nothing of it. A second later, his eye lift and return to the man's own gaze.
"I concur," he replies, calmly.
But the fight's not over. Noting the flames produced before his very eye, Heidern braces himself. He waits, and attempts to deftly pivot out of harm's way a the last second. Too slow. Struck, the man tumbles a few turns before he stops, breathing heavily. He hasn't been this winded in ages.
Slowly, however, the man rises to his feet. Sporting the faintest hints of a smirk, he offers one last attack - charging after the blonde, he snaps a leg out, to smack him swiftly across the face with the bottom of his boot. However, regardless of success, the elder man stumbles a bit before he simply drops to his knee. He's out.
COMBATSYS: Heidern can no longer fight.
> //////// ]
|==-----\-------\0 Kain
COMBATSYS: Kain blocks Heidern's Light Kick.
> //////// ]
|===----\-------\0 Kain
Near the end of the fight, Dante managed to regain consciousness. By no means the strength to continue, especially against a fighter of Heidern's capabilities, but he has watched. In particular his master. This is the first time he has seen him truly unleash his capabilities within a full fight, and much has actually been learned watching how he molds and manipulates his own fire. Not a sound has been made, or flicker of worry or concern as the fight shifts heavily in both directions. Gripping an adjacent stalactite to help to his feet, clutching likely broken ribs, Dante allows a bloody smile as the final blow is struck, and Kain remains standing. "It looks like we win, Kain-sama..." Dante grunts, beginning to limp towards the exit as best he can. "...I hope I did not disappoint."
Kain's arm snaps up to block Heidern's boot, catching it in his hand. He manages to stop Heidern's foot, but it seems to be a close thing. He's still got one arm wrapped across his stomach, and he almost doesn't manage to keep Heidern from pressing all the way through to his face. In the end, though, Heidern falls and Kain is able to let his arm relax.
Turning toward Dante as he rises, Kain nods his head. "Everyone involved in this match was quite impressive. If only more people had this kind of will." And Kain, in turn, starts making his way toward the entrance. He's going to have to get himself bandaged up a bit before he does much else. Too bad his hole in the roof doesn't really work as an exit; it means everybody's going to have to take the long route out.
Log created by Heidern, and last modified on 06:10:54 03/29/2007.