Hi'1 Short Stories: Maintaining the Silence [Archive]

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 13th, 2007, 09:58 PM

Ok, I have written a good seven, or so, short stories that about various battles and maps that I have played/created. Some of them are sprinkled throughout my other threads, in custom bios or scenario descriptions in my Predict the Victor posts, but most are yet to be released on Heroscapers. Recently I have really gotten into my stories, and would like to post them for your enjoyment. Most are even accompanied by some simple artwork that I feel adds more life to the stories. Before I jump right in though, I would like to lay out my thoughts on various topics of Valhallan society and structure that play an essential role in the telling of these tales. Some of my opinions may differ from most, but again they are a critical part to my writings.

Links to my stories can be found at the bottom of this post.
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What happens to a hero when he/she dies?
This topic, I am sure has been gone over countless times by heroscapers at home and on the web. For example, I can distinctly remember the question being posed in the Heroscape Philosophical Discussion thread, and the variety of opinions that had been formulated around it. In my own perspective, heroes do not die once they have been summoned to the land of Valhalla. Perhaps it is my slight background in Norse Mythology, from books, research papers, general interest in the subject, and one of my favorite computer games, Age of Mythology, but whatever the reason, Valhallan heroes do not perish like mere mortals. Any hero summoned to the fields of Valhalla, once defeated in battle, will be re-created, within not too long of a time, in the throne room of the general he/she was summoned by. Although they are re-created, the heroes only have vague rememberences of the events of his/her death. Most often a hero will not even recall the most general fact of his/her death. This theory comes adjusted from Norse mythology's Valhalla, where the brave warriors would fight all day until their deaths, then be re-created for a feast each night. This pattern would continue as training for Ragnarok, when the strength of the warriors and heroes would be needed to stop the coming of the end of the world. Similarly, heroes in Valhalla fight battles over and over again for the good of their general and eventually prosperity of good over evil.

How are dates, specifically years, kept track of in Valhalla?
Like our own calendar, the Valhalla one begins with year 1 as the year of an important event. In their case, it's the discovery of the first wellspring. Thormun's Journal directly states that the first discovery was, "Sixty-some years ago I discovered the first one quite by accident, in the Tarn of Volsunga." This journal was recorded after the summoning had already begun, and all of the Rise of the Valkyrie figures were already in Valhalla. Then looking at the SoTM rulebook, it stated the discovery of the Hive took place five years after Rise of the Valkyrie. Using I determined the years as below. The years take on the same ending as our own Earth years with A.D. (After Discovery).

0 A.D. - Discovery
By 62 A.D. - Rise of Valkyrie summoned
By 63 A.D. - Wave 1 and 2 summoned
By 64 A.D. - Wave 3, RttF, VW, and OR summoned/discovered
By 65 A.D. - Wave 4, TT, RV and FotA summoned/discovered
By 66 A.D. - Wave 5 and 6 summoned
By 67 A.D. - Wave 7 and Swarm of the Marro summoned

Now years are not enough for the purpose of chronology. This forced me to make up a moth and day system as well. We only know Rannveig and Endall as months, both from Thormun's Journal. As for the rest of the months I'll keep it simple with nine months each with 30 days. As for the months names, most are insignificant. Some may have more meaning that the stories will tell, but I am not sure about that. One other important thing is that I consider the first three months as part of Valhalla's 'warm' season, the second three as the 'rainy' season, and the last three as the 'windy' season.

Rovnar
Crolig
Evnor
Lueven
Jultan
Dejeit
Rannveig
Endall
Grogmar

How are different languages between creatures from different worlds handled?
For the purposes of my writings, all languages have been translated to English unless purposely not done so. It is my belief that when a hero is summoned to Valhalla, they immediately and mystically know a universal language of Vallhalla. At certain times characters will speak in their native tongue so that other enemies/heroes cannot understand them, but for the most part it is considered a common courtesy to speak in the native language of Valhalla, and all figures uphold this courtesy to the best of their abilities.

Where does Marvelscape fit in?
This is a tough one to anwer. As the superheroes are not summoned by any one general, or at least not loyal to one, it is difficult to think of how they arrived in Valhalla. The simple way is to say they do not exist in Valhalla, but the close relation between the two games (obviously, they both are Heroscape) and the fact the point costs are balanced between the two makes me think that somehow or another they arrived in Valhalla. The exact methods differ, but I do have a story or two explain the existance of these beings.

As for the timeline I place Marvel in the early 68 A.D., it may be slightly late chrologically of releases, but as the figures are not alligned with anyone, no one would really be able to tell when all ten creatures had entered Valhalla.

How does the naming of individual squad members work?
Almost every squad is composed of indeviduals with their own names, whether it be #2708 and SR4F6 for Soulborgs, or Astuko and Agent Sanders for humanoids. The only squad members which don’t receive individual names are the Vipers. Think about the Venoc Warlord, he has no name, but simply goes by his rank. I believe that this system is followed by all the Vipers because they are a more ‘primitive’ race, so Vipers are simply known as Venocs, Armocs, or Elite Onyx. This is how they were addressed on Marr, and the custom continues on Valhalla.

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The Keystones of Valhalla - Map (http://heroscapers.com/community/showthread.php?p=435322#466199) and Background Info (http://heroscapers.com/community/showthread.php?p=435786#466692)
The Keystones of Valhalla: Part I (http://heroscapers.com/community/showthread.php?p=434793#465664)
The Keystones of Valhalla: Part II (http://heroscapers.com/community/showthread.php?p=435444#466322)
The Keystones of Valhalla: Part III (http://heroscapers.com/community/showthread.php?p=436114#467025)

The Valhallan Games
The Valhallan Games: Part I (http://heroscapers.com/community/showthread.php?p=439493#470482)
The Valhallan Gmaes: Part II (http://heroscapers.com/community/showthread.php?p=439847#470843)

Sgt. Drake's Christmas (http://heroscapers.com/community/showthread.php?p=455011#486246)

Maintaining the Silence (http://heroscapers.com/community/showthread.php?p=455831#487072)

Metaknight

November 14th, 2007, 07:02 AM

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 14th, 2007, 02:46 PM

Interesting. I have to disagree with the years because humans like Drake, who was one of the first, cannot live 97 years, there's a problem.

I'm basing it on the discovery of the springs, it is where the timeline begins.

Discovery- 0
Rise of Valkyrie- around 60
Wave 1- 63
Wave 2- 65
RtFF- 66
Volcarren Wasteland- 66
Orm's Return- 67
Wave 3(which you forgot)- 68
Wave 4- 71
Thaelenk Tundra- 72
Raknar's Vision- 74
Wave 5- 75
Wave 6- 77
Wave 7- 80
Swarm of the Marro- 81

I know yours is fictional but I just ment I'd think the dates be closer together. I like you other explanations!You are right about Drake living 97 years, but with the whole re-birth when killed thing, I also like to think that heroes never grow older as well. As for the timeline, I purposely skipped some waves to condense it.

As for the sparsity between the years, looking back I will agree that they are spaced very far apart. The thing is it surprised me that there were 60 years between wellspring discovery and the Rise of the Valkyrie. Now this led me to the conclusion that perhaps a summoning is not a simple as it would appear, perhaps it drains an enourmous amount of energy and takes a very long time to preform. This could explain the gap in time from discovery to Rise of Valkyrie.

Another this is that Thormun's Journal says, "Alas, Valhalla, my once-serene homeland, has now become a war-torn and desolate ruin. They are calling this age of war the Rise of the Valkyrie." Now if that's the name of the 'age of war' then when the Swarm of the Marro came out, that would seem to suggest a new age has come. The one hundred year gap, is a good benchmark for an 'age.' Now I could go back and rearrange it to be a 50 year age, or even 25.

I don't think the exact year frame matters with reguard to a specific year, but rather to put a perspecive into when everything is happening. This is only reinforced by the fact that we do not know how long a year lasts on Valhalla. For arguements sake it could last 300 Earth years, or only 2 Earth months. So I am using the years more as a way to establish order rather than exact date. I don't want to be boged down by figuring out dates, so usually I won't bother with the months or days either.

You really got me thinking about it more closely Metaknight, thanks. Oh and you reminded me discovery should be 0 A.D. (After Discovery) rather than 1 A.D. :)

Mycophycophyta

November 14th, 2007, 04:29 PM

johnny139

November 14th, 2007, 04:36 PM

Ah! Fantastic to see you get into the Fan-Fic world, Hi1. I haven't written anything in a long time... too tired... but I like the layout you've put down. Details on the inner working of a story get goobers like me drooling.

Can't wait to see what you put out!

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 14th, 2007, 05:22 PM

This is a very good idea but it is shown at the beginning of the Swarm booklet, pg. 2, that the Swarm of the Marro was just five years after the Rise of the Valkyrie. It is pretty obvious that the release the characters in chronological order that they are summoned, but why do have VW as after Wave 4 not Wave 2. The only time gaps we can be sure of is the time between the discovery and the Rise(about 60) and the Rise and the Swarm(5).The Volcarren Wasteland after Wave 4 instead of 2 was simplely a mistake. I could not remember the order for which the sets came out exactly. This is not a big deal to change.

Your first point, however, is much more difficult. I had just overlooked this information. With only five years from the Rise of the Valkyrie and the Swarm of the Marro, I am not sure how to handle everything. With this fact in consideration, it would work something like this:

0 A.D. - Discovery
62 A.D. - Rise of Valkyrie
63 A.D. - Wave 1 and 2
64 A.D. - Wave 3, RttF, VW, and OR
65 A.D. - Wave 4, TT, RV and FotA
66 A.D. - Wave 5 and 6
67 A.D. - Wave 7 and Swarm of the Marro

Again I want to stress that years were only important to me in order to give some type of chronology to the stories. Now the problem only gets complicated as the years are so close together. If I write a story about the summoning of the Omnicron Snipers, I can't just say 63 A.D. and have it clear that this event occured before a story written about the summoning of Sir Denrick, also in 63 A.D. This just forces me to establish a month system in addition to the year system. Do you at least see where I am coming from? I will have to think about this some more before I decide on what to do. Thank you for pointing this out, though.

Ah! Fantastic to see you get into the Fan-Fic world, Hi1. I haven't written anything in a long time... too tired... but I like the layout you've put down. Details on the inner working of a story get goobers like me drooling.

Can't wait to see what you put out!Thanks johnny! I have read all of your stories, and think they are some of the best works on this site. I just hope what I present can live up to your expectations and the standards I have just set for myself.

johnny139

November 14th, 2007, 06:23 PM

I think it's if you just change things around a little... make each "year" made up of ten "mili-years" or something. It's not Earth - you can have some leeway when it comes to this kinda thing.

Bloody the Marro Stinger

November 14th, 2007, 06:35 PM

Mycophycophyta

November 14th, 2007, 07:25 PM

I understand what you are saying. You could separate the releases by months or seasons, but the only Valhallan month/season we know about is Rannveig(mentioned in Thormun Journal).

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 14th, 2007, 08:10 PM

Great to see you in the business, h1h1! :D I hope to see your work (and Johnny's too. Why did he stop? :cry: ). One minor complaint - if all heroes were reborn a week after death, then Kee-Mo-Shi shouldn't be striving that much for immortality like she has now... ah well!Nothing's perfect. :) I can't have the heroes die for good though, a couple important units die in the first story. Maybe a week after death is too short, but I do believe the are reborn after no more than a month.

think it's if you just change things around a little... make each "year" made up of ten "mili-years" or something. It's not Earth - you can have some leeway when it comes to this kinda thing.
I understand what you are saying. You could separate the releases by months or seasons, but the only Valhallan month/season we know about is Rannveig(mentioned in Thormun Journal).Yes I plan to know. It's a little more complicated, but I've worked it out. We only know Rannveig and Endall, both from Thormun's Journal. I'll keep the months simple, starting with the month Rovnar and ending with Grogmar. Just made up some names that sound like cool months with each of the 9 months lasting approximately 30 days. The first three are part of Valhalla's 'warm' season, the second three the 'rainy' season, and the last three the 'windy' season.

Rovnar (26 days)
Crolig (39 days)
Evnor (31 days)
Lueven (28 days)
Jultan (29 days)
Dejeit (32 days)
Rannveig (27 days)
Endall (32 days)
Grogmar (34 days)

Bloody the Marro Stinger

November 14th, 2007, 08:30 PM

I'd say make it so that they revive themselves after 2 weeks or so. Kee-Mo-Shi revives herself in half the time.

johnny139

November 14th, 2007, 08:46 PM

(and Johnny's too. Why did he stop? :cry: )

The spark is dead, my friend...

I forgot all about Rannveig and such! That would make sense, though it does seem to be somewhat complex.

Mycophycophyta

November 14th, 2007, 09:22 PM

Perhaps you could name the unknown months after glyphs as Rannveig is a glyph. I seems as if you already have names planned out, but just a suggestion.

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 14th, 2007, 09:33 PM

Perhaps you could name the unknown months after glyphs as Rannveig is a glyph. I seems as if you already have names planned out, but just a suggestion.Actually I thought of that, but hardly using glyphs, I wasn't sure which names have been used for something else. Really, as I have said, I am only using the months and years for chronology. If you can come up with a list of months based off the glyphs instead I'd be happy to use either.

And johnny the random numbers were just that, random. I really don't think the number will come into effect too often, and I didn't want it boring to say they are all 30 days. Plus in the journal the last day of Rannveig is the 27th, the next entry is the 1st of Endall.

To Bloody, the length of time for revival is too key to the stories, rather it is just the fact that they are revived within a reasonably short time period.

Thanks to everyone for your interest. I have the first story saved in two parts on two different computers, I will post the first one soon enough. :D Actually I will post it as soon as there is one more post in this thread. I don't want the story to appear at the bottom of this page, and post 15 starts a new page (this is post 13).

Mycophycophyta

November 14th, 2007, 09:43 PM

By the way, the official map of Valhalla need to be updated for fan-fic purposes. I doesn't mention any battlefields after Idona Castle and places mentioned in the Journal.

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 14th, 2007, 09:52 PM

The Keystones of Valhalla
12th day of Evnor, 68 A.D.

Their powers have been protected for hundreds of years before the first wellspring’s discovery; their existence kept secret for nearly seventy years after. The Keystones of Valhalla contain an incredible mystical force, the like of which the expanse of Valhalla has never known, the extent of which no one being has come to fully comprehend. The tale lies in fragmented pieces, prophecies of old combined with tired legends told by wandering bards. Together these stories describe a region where four terrains meet, where the worlds of snow, lava, swamp, and water can all coexist. They tell of guardians to each region, specific beasts that draw from the land and use its attributes to defend their sacred realm. But most importantly, they depict an immense power source, one capable of unimaginable feats. Legend holds that when the four Keystones are brought together a creature is born, a creature more powerful than even the strongest of warriors and proficient enough to have all of Valhalla quake in its presence.

“Then it is agreed, this is the place of fable, the location of the Keystones of Valhalla!” A group of red-winged kyries nodded in unison, it was unmistakable, four regions, each of a specific topography, each guarded by a set of paladins, each containing a distinguishable stone in the center.

Taelord the Kyrie Warrior was situated just below the crest of a grassy hill, his devilish minions behind him, all focusing on what lie just beyond the ridge. A look of delight appeared on each of his followers’ faces for they knew much bloodshed would soon take place. Only eighteen combatants stood between them and the secret to the Keystones; not one would be left standing in only a short time, and soon the most formidable force would be in their presence, under their control. A lust for power was what glowed off each Minion, and what anxiously willed each to ready himself for battle.

Perhaps Taelord knew of the potential better than anyone else, and while the others finished sharpening their weaponry for battle, he thought of the results from his certain victory –Whatever beast is born from the unison of the Keystones, one thing is certain, it will be the quintessential machine of destruction. It will be the unequaled soldier, a perfect fit for Utgar’s battalion, and it will be completely under my direction– The pure conception that a being of such grandeur would obey his every whim caused a wickedly evil smile to form on Taelord’s lips. Raising himself to an upright position, and lifting his sword to indicate a charge, the relentless kyrie leader led his men to storm the unsuspecting guardians.

***

For what seemed like an eternity, the sun went black. But to the nearest Dzu-Teh it took only a moment to discover what awful truth was unfolding, someone was coming to seize the sacred Keystones. Club in hand, Keystone behind, the Guardian had no choice but to ready himself for a fight to the death.

***

“Raelin, come quickly! We've spotted some Marro Drudge just past this small knoll,” a group of three Einar Imperium was crouched down, huddled together in order to keep their wing tips hidden from anything that happened to be beyond the nearby embankment. The warrior who had called out to Raelin was motioning to her with his sword in the direction directly behind him. Ever since Einar had allied with Jandar, the Imperium had become an invaluable asset in Jandar's war efforts. Raelin, especially, felt the benefits of their accompaniment; their advanced scouting and combat skills proved essential multiple times in the past week alone.

But this time Raelin questioned their findings, –How can there be Marro Drudge here? We are surrounded by grasslands and there hasn't been rain in these parts for weeks. Surely the heat has gone to their heads, no right-minded Drudge would be caught out of the swamp– Being careful to stay veiled in case the Imperium were right, Raelin made her way to the soldiers' position, and peering over the top of the hill her disbeliefs were confirmed. There, out in the open, stood three Marro Drudge. But, no, they were not on the plains, they were in the swamp. –Impossible. I have never seen something like this. A swamp, rising up out of the grass, surrounded by a gravel path, with a large stone in the center, it seems like something out of legend–

The sudden realization hit her hard. Immediately, Raelin signaled to her additional three Imperium and Sentinels, and speaking calmly, but with a certain level urgency, “We have mistakenly come across the Keystones of Valhalla.” An awed silence struck the kyrie as they realized Raelin was correct in her conclusion, “The Marro Drudge down there must be trying to secure one of the four Keystones; Utgar must be planning on using their power for his own devious plans. We must stop him.” Nods from each of the nine surrounding creatures confirmed it, the Drudge must be killed. Then, raising her spear to the sky, Raelin led her warriors on their mission to destroy the Marro Drudge.

***

Two silver wings rose above the distant foothills, followed almost immediately by multiple sets of white and brown pairs. In the swamp below, three Marro Drudge recognized the threat. Taking a stance in front of the Keystone, the trio of Guardians lifted their pistols and took aim at the approaching force.

***

To keep warm in the harsh conditions of the frozen tundra, Dzu-Teh fur needs to be soft and cushiony, though consequently, kyrie swords and axes have little trouble tearing apart the hunters' pliable coat. As the third and last Dzu-Teh perished beneath the blade of a crazed Minion, Taelord took to the skies and, landing on the summit of the highest glacier, his greatest hopes were fulfilled. There, only feet before him, stood a large engraved stone. –A Keystone–

Calling down to his troops below, Taelord bellowed his observations, “From my location it would appear the remaining Keystones are directly northwest, north, and northeast from this one.” Then pointing his sword at the nearest Minion, he continued, “You there, guard this Keystone with your life,” and sweeping the blade over the rest of the crowd, “as for the rest of you, follow me to the northeast Keystone.”

The wicked smile crept back onto Taelord's grim face, in his head the countdown had begun, –One down, three to go–

***

to be continued…

Bloody the Marro Stinger

November 14th, 2007, 10:00 PM

Great job, h1h1h1 on your first one! It sets the mood well. :D

Metaknight

November 15th, 2007, 06:43 AM

Nice, it's very different! And thanks!

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 15th, 2007, 03:29 PM

Great job, h1h1h1 on your first one! It sets the mood well. :DThank you!

Nice, it's very different! And thanks!And thank you!

Just wondering what made it different from others?

johnny139

November 15th, 2007, 03:39 PM

Gah! You cut out the fight! :P

Very interesting. I've always been a sucker for "Fine the fabled items to unlock great power" type of story, so it's caught my interest. The characterization is good, but the thoughts and dialogue of the characters need more to set them apart. Outside of what they're actually saying, Raelin and Taelord's thought process could be completely switched around. For example - give the Imperium a more subserviant dialect. Have them call Raelin "mistress" and such.

But outside of that, very good. I look forward to more.

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 15th, 2007, 04:07 PM

Gah! You cut out the fight! :P Heh, the next one has fighting, it would just get to long if I had every little battle. It was 9 Minions and Taelord against 3 Dzu-Teh, not much of a fight.

Very interesting. I've always been a sucker for "Fine the fabled items to unlock great power" type of story, so it's caught my interest. The characterization is good, but the thoughts and dialogue of the characters need more to set them apart. Outside of what they're actually saying, Raelin and Taelord's thought process could be completely switched around. For example - give the Imperium a more subserviant dialect. Have them call Raelin "mistress" and such.

But outside of that, very good. I look forward to more.Yea, I tend to be better at setting up the characters and setting then the dialogue. I'll look through the second part and see if I can fix the dialogue/thought issues. Like splitting into more paragraphs to set them seperate.

Hmm ok, with something like this:

Calling down to his troops below, Taelord bellowed his observations, “From my location it would appear the remaining Keystones are directly northwest, north, and northeast from this one.” The pointing his sword at the nearest Minion, he continued, “You there, guard this Keystone with your life,” and sweeping the blade over the rest of the crowd, “as for the rest of you, follow me to the northeast Keystone.”

What do you reccomend I fix?

I'm glad you liked it. Thanks so much for the critique, oh and never be afraid to post that somethign was just plain old bad. I know writing is a learning process and the more serious critiques, the better for me. This goes for everyone else, as well.

Mycophycophyta

November 15th, 2007, 06:56 PM

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 15th, 2007, 07:12 PM

Cool.

But one thing, why are remaining keystone all north of the first found keystone if the first keystone is in icy land with Dzu-Teh? I am assuming that all the snow and the Dzu-Teh are located in the Thaelenk Tundra which is the mus northern part of what is discovered in Valhalla.I probably should have included this picture.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc164/hi1hi1hi1hi1/Predict%20the%20Victor/IMG_9351.jpg

and this one

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc164/hi1hi1hi1hi1/Predict%20the%20Victor/IMG_9355.jpg

johnny139

November 15th, 2007, 08:34 PM

Hmm ok, with something like this:

Calling down to his troops below, Taelord bellowed his observations, “From my location it would appear the remaining Keystones are directly northwest, north, and northeast from this one.” The pointing his sword at the nearest Minion, he continued, “You there, guard this Keystone with your life,” and sweeping the blade over the rest of the crowd, “as for the rest of you, follow me to the northeast Keystone.”

What do you reccomend I fix?

Hmm... Taelord is a minion, savage, and though intelligent, seems more coarse. Let me see if I can give it a quick re-write of sorts...

Calling down to his troops below, Taelord bellowed his observations, “From over here it seems the remaining Keystones are directly northwest, north, and northeast from this one.” The pointing his sword at the nearest Minion, he continued, “You there, guard this Keystone with your wretched life,” and sweeping the blade over the rest of the crowd, “as for the rest of you lowlives, follow me to the northeast Keystone.”

Now this is, of course, just my view. I don't picture Taelord as being too civil, maybe you do. Just putting out ideas. :D

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 15th, 2007, 09:08 PM

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 15th, 2007, 10:21 PM

The Keystones of Valhalla: Part II
12th day of Evnor, 68 A.D.

The fastest route to the swamp led straight down into an open clearing, no trees for cover, and only a small ruin on the very outer portion. The kyrie now cascading over the hill had no protection from an onslaught of Marro Drudge pistol-fire. With only Raelin’s defensive shield and their own evasion skills the winged creatures continued their advancement on their opponents carefully. Raelin did her best to keep the protective aura strong and widespread, but she was troubled by the situation.–We are going to lose too many men this way. The Marr…–

“Aghhhhh…” her thoughts were cut short by the scream of a nearby Einar Imperium. Instinctively, Raelin turned to see the warrior that ushered such a wailing cry, but to her dismay she found only a limp body in the grass. Almost as though fearful of the image, Raelin, found herself diving out of the direct fire, abandoning her troops, and taking cover behind the outer ruin. Glimpsing back for only another second, the merciful kyrie saw a second Imperium die.

Panting from her retreat to cover, Raelin wondered why she had forsaken her allies, –Am I a traitor? Why have I deserted my own friends?– the words resounded through Raelin’s head and caused her enough physical pain to pace behind the crumbled building. But something stopped her from returning to the fight. –Perhaps I am just too weak, an unfit commander to the ranks of Jandar– her sulking led to the far edge of the wreckage, –but then again, perhaps ‘tis was fate– for there, only a mere hundred feet in front of her, lay a Keystone.

–But I am too late– Raelin had positioned herself so that only a quarter helmet and eye protruded from the collapsed edifice. Three Obsidian Guards surrounded the Keystone located in the center of a fiery pit of lava; –Utgar has taken this Keystone as well. But I will not let him keep it!– Then, taking off in a burst of fury Raelin, swooped in on the unsuspecting Guardians.

A sharpened spear made its first target in the back of an unwary guard. As the rocky mass crumpled to the floor, a short grunt of pain alerted the other defenders to the situation. Raelin knew that two against one were not favorable odds, but she had a duty to protect Valhalla from those who would use its secrets for evil. And balancing on the Keystone, she tore her spear from the steadily melting victim and spun it around with all her might.

The weapon hit the skull of the fatter guard first; the cracking sound emitted was almost ear-splitting. Instantly he fell to molten earth in a heap almost identical to that of his partner. But the spear’s path of destruction did not end. The third and final Moltarn had little time to react to his fellow Guardians’ deaths, for Raelin’s spear did not stop its motion for even a moment. A final crushing blow sent the warrior sprawling to the side, the three Guardians had perished within seconds of each other.

But this was not an atrocity, she had protected a Keystone.

***

The Venoc Vipers had planned to meet the Minions halfway. Previously sensing the immediate danger, the six snake-like creatures hoped the element of surprise would eliminate the coming threat, and moving with the flexibility and grace of which only the most masterful of vipers can achieve, they slithered into hiding among the trees.

As the first kyrie approached, they stuck with a force that would have toppled most warriors. But this was not an average warrior; it was a Sentinel of Jandar.

Steadying himself from the unexpected blow, the Sentinel returned the attack, his hammer instantly crushing the Viper’s flimsy body. Kicking the corpse into the lake below, the kyrie suddenly found himself surrounded by five more Vipers.

“Yousss sssshould notssss hassss come. Thessssee Keyssstonesssss arrressss protected byssss ourssselvessss, nonesss sssshall posssesssss their mightssss.” The Viper hiss came in a quiet, yet deadly tongue, their eyes fixed on those of the intruder. Creeping forward towards their captive the hiss began to overwhelm the Sentinel. The Vipers moved in for the strike, the kyrie’s final moments upon him, and then with an augmented hiss, they charged.

But they never reached their target. Each of the Vipers’ bodies went numb, the tip of a blade protruding from every green, lifeless form. Three Einar Imperium stood behind their prey, and like an orderly machine each simultaneously wiped the disgraceful worms from their swords.

Taelord had seen the entire spectacle, the surprised Sentinel, the hissing Vipers, the proficient Imperium. He had seen it all and he had not been thrilled. –I am only three stones away from my greatest victory ever, I will not allow some retched excuse for kyrie to foil my plans– and spinning around to his minions, he roared his orders, “I want those putrid beings wiped off the face of Valhalla, you are my feared and awed at Minions of Utgar! Live up to your reputation and do not allow a soul to remaining breathing!”

With a battle-cry that sent ripples through the nearby water, the Minions and Imperium met in midair. The battle grew fierce; most lunges were parried, most stabs hit harmlessly against steel shields. The Imperium knew how to fight, the Minions only desired blood. Slash after slash was dealt, cuts and scraps began to amount on the warriors, but no death wounds had been encountered.

Taking to the skies came an additional two Sentinels, proclaiming the news that the Drudge were defeated, the swamp Keystone attained, and Raelin discovered. When seeing their long-term rivals in battle, the kyrie swung their hammers with all their might, until one came crashing into the leg of a Minion. Thrown into a wild downward spiral by the force of the blow, the Minion tried to right himself, but with no success. His iron helmet cracked in two on the rocky path below, his muscular frame lie motionless evermore.

The, thrashing their axes around like wild men, two Minions connected. Soon two more bodies crashed to the ground below, followed by steady rain of brown feathers.

Taelord watched his warriors with joy, his face glowing more radiant with each strike, and more even more so as the first sentinel fell. Seizing the opportunity to behold the second Keystone, Taelord kept a low hover across the lake to the magnificent artifact. –You are mine now– and gazing adoringly at the stone, Taelord reached out and touched it. A Minion in the South, an Imperium in the North, Raelin in the West, and now Taelord in the East, each kyrie was in connection with one of the four Keystones.

Suddenly a bolt of purple light shot out from each Keystone, all four colliding in a central point between them. There in the middle, the light began to grow larger and more intense, taking the form of an enormous being. The warring kyrie drifted to the ground in astonishment, dropping their weapons, Raelin looked up at the sight in horror, and a completely sinister look graced Taelord’s face.

A twelve foot green monster had just materialized.

***

to be continued…

Akralon

November 16th, 2007, 01:48 PM

A cleverly constructed story. I like the idea of using an actual map setup for the setting.

I do have a couple questions, though.

First, since the units guarding each keystone belong to a general, wouldn't each general be aware of the others, especially with Utgar possessing two? (The drudge and golem guarded ones that is)

Or are the guardians rogue squadrons that have no allegiances?

Secondly, what caused Raelin to flee and abandon the Imperium one moment, then turn around and in the next moment, courageously charge the three obsidian guards by herself?

I may have missed something in earlier posts, but those were the two things that stuck in my mind.

On another note, I liked how Taelord merely sat back and watched the minions do all the work (as would be done in the game more often than not) and took special delight in the slaying of the sentinels.

Judging by the way the characters and settings are all taken directly from an actual game setup - I'd have to guess the big green character is Krug.

At any rate, if some units are without allegiance, it'd be interesting to see who he attacked first, unless of course possessing two keystones gives Taelord control.

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 16th, 2007, 02:56 PM

A cleverly constructed story. I like the idea of using an actual map setup for the setting. Thank you Akralon! Now let's see if I can help with these questions.

I do have a couple questions, though.

First, since the units guarding each keystone belong to a general, wouldn't each general be aware of the others, especially with Utgar possessing two? (The drudge and golem guarded ones that is)

Or are the guardians rogue squadrons that have no allegiances?The Guardians are rogue squadrons, ones whose alliance lies with some unkown being. I have a short bio on the Guardians that I wrote but couldn't fit anywhere in the story. Basically it is the basis for the story, and since you are interested here it is:

----------------------------------

Background Story for the Keystone Guardians

Recruited to Valhalla from the far corners of the universe, no one know whom the Guardians serve. While their kin take up arms in the support of warring armies, these particular specimens differ in their motives. To protect the four Keystones of Vallhalla, the Marro Drudge, from the swamps of Marr; the Dzu-Teh, from the frozen tundras of Valhalla; the Venoc Vipers, from the water-bound forests of Marr; and the Odbsidian Guards, from the volcanic wastelands of Valhalla; all guard a sacred stone with their lives. But in these war-ridden times the keys hold to precious a secret to be left untouched. Now Utgar's finest Minions have been appointed with the task of attaining the Keystones and will stop at nothing to complete their goal.

----------------------------------

Secondly, what caused Raelin to flee and abandon the Imperium one moment, then turn around and in the next moment, courageously charge the three obsidian guards by herself?

I may have missed something in earlier posts, but those were the two things that stuck in my mind.We as readers are not sure what came over Raelin. It could have been a devine power leading her to find the second Keystone; it could have been a short emotional breakdown where all the bloodshed finally had gotten to her, but she realized she needed to overcome it to take back the Keystone.

Personaly my take is that she was slightly disturbed by the image of the fallen Imperium (for reasons unkown) and taking cover was an uncontrolable impluse. Then upon realizing her failure, she was too ashamed to return to fight. Whereupon discovering the Obsidian Guards, she changed her beliefs, thinking it a sign of 'good faith' that her fault had led her to another Keystone 'controlled' by Utgar. Seeing her actions as not weakness then, but as a sign, she had no difficulties slaying the Guards.

On another note, I liked how Taelord merely sat back and watched the minions do all the work (as would be done in the game more often than not) and took special delight in the slaying of the sentinels.Thanks! I particularly enjoyed that part as well.

Judging by the way the characters and settings are all taken directly from an actual game setup - I'd have to guess the big green character is Krug.

At any rate, if some units are without allegiance, it'd be interesting to see who he attacked first, unless of course possessing two keystones gives Taelord control.And yes the "big green creature" is without alliance, as to who it is, you just have to wait and find out. :wink:

As to the Keystones though, they are unmoveable, with Taelord , Raelin, an Imperium, and a Minion each touching one.

johnny139

November 16th, 2007, 03:01 PM

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 16th, 2007, 10:28 PM

The dialogue was much better this time - Raelin was confused, and second-guessing herself, Taelord had an "I'm better than you" style of speaking, while still seeming like the one in charge.

Hmm... a twelve foot green creature... wonder what it looks like? Thanks, I told you Taelord would be civil until things started going another way. Thanks for the help though!

Which twelve foot green creature is it though? :wink: You'll have to wait and find out...

Bloody the Marro Stinger

November 17th, 2007, 12:07 AM

Does it have something to do with your new prediction game? :wink:

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 17th, 2007, 12:42 AM

The Keystones of Valhalla: Part III
12th day of Evnor, 68 A.D.

The earth below shook as the green-skinned beast hit ground, the couple of Minions nearby wobbled back a step or two to avoid the being’s muscular arms. The figure’s oversized chest and abs reached to the top of a Minion’s helmet, his purple, torn shorts were directly eye-level. Never had the kyrie beheld such a mass of raw muscle before in all of Valhalla.

Observing the mystified winged beings around him, the beast finally addressed the overwhelmed crowd, “Where Hulk be? Hulk not like here, Hulk not like birdy-fellas. Strange birdy-fella come near Hulk.” as Hulk spoke, Taelord cautiously approached, speaking softly to the confused giant.

“Easy Hulk, I helped you,” careful to speak slowly and calmly with the large creature, Taelord made his demands, “I summoned you, Hulk, now Hulk serve me, understand?” and, nodding his head to encourage the Hulk to do the same, Taelord inched slightly closer to the big man.

The Hulk began nodding along with Taelord, but soon became bored with the motion, then lifting his fists up, the Hulk announced his feelings, “Hulk not like black-winged birdy, Hulk smash birdys!” and with the momentum of a bullet train, Hulk’s fists connected solidly with Taelord’s gut.

The kyrie warrior exploded backwards, the force of the blow sending him crashing past his minions and through to the trunk of an evergreen tree. There the kyrie lay, motionless and mangled.

The Minions of Utgar had little time to react to their leader’s destruction, as the Hulk did not stop his rampage at one victim. Hulk picked up the nearest warrior, crushing his wings in the process, and dangling him by the arm, simply tossed him over his shoulder. An inhuman screech of pain escaped the kyrie’s mouth as his corpse found its resting place in a patch of molten lava.

All at once the remaining minion’s swarmed at the green beast, thrashing their swords about, trying to break through his tough skin. But it only seemed to make matters worse; as the Hulk got angrier and angrier, he seemed to fight with more ferocity. And shaking the minions from his body, Hulk uprooted the closest tree. “Birdys hit Hulk with sticks, Hulk hit birdys with trees!” and with an elegant toss, the Hulk caught two Minions and a Sentinel beneath the immense weight of the pine.

Raelin, sensing Hulk’s terror did not know good from evil, called out to her remaining warriors, “Imperium, Sentinels, we must help the Minons in destroying this menace. The power of this one being rivals the might of both Jandar and Utgar, and this one’s mind has no view of right and wrong. Take up your arms, we must destroy the Hulk before he can further upset the balance of Valhalla!” Reaching her own defensive aura around the still advancing Minons, Raelin took the skies, prepared to destroy the monster at all costs.

With the addition of the Imperium leaving his Keystone in the north and the Minion abandoning his post in the south, Raelin had four Imperium, one Sentinel, and five Minions to help eliminate the destructive creature. Diving in for the kill simultaneously with the other kyries’ charge, Raelin could only hope they had enough to take down the Hulk.

Allowing Raelin to get within a foot of striking, the Hulk lashed out his hand, grabbing her spear and snapping it in two. The unexpected action caused Raelin to lose control in her flight and sent her body crashing into a minion below. Lucky for Raelin, the Minion’s ax was not facing her, but luck was not with the mortally wounded warrior.

A surging pain spread through Raelin’s form, her body covered in the blood of another, she was too dazed to move. As her eyes closed and the darkness took over, Raelin felt the ground almost crumble beneath her. There was a deafening rumbling sound, followed by screams, and then, silence.

***

Suddenly coming to his senses, the mangled kyrie warrior opened his eyes. His ribs were broken, his wings pierced with pine branches, and his minions all dead. Desperately hoping for a lost orc or wolf to wander by, Taelord lay helpless against the trunk of the pine.

***

Raelin awoke sometime after, the day and the time she would only discover later. Her body ached, but the blackout had done her good, she was able to stand again. Lifting her sore form to an upright position, she observed the scene before her. Eight or so kyrie were impaled in the ground, their every bone crushed and broken, the imprint of large footprints surrounded each.

Looking upon the corpses, it was clear none had even an ounce of life left. The picture was one of death and despair, and it was only after burying the dead and only with a heavy heart that Raelin begin her tred home. Jandar needed to know of the new menace unleashed to Valhalla, of his pure wrath of destruction, and of the fallen warriors.

***

And so ends the story of how the Hulk was freed onto the planet of Valhalla, and of his first of many victories, for nothing can stop the Hulk.

Metaknight

November 17th, 2007, 08:22 AM

Interesting, I like how these relate to your battle reports in your other thread! Down with Hulk!!!

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 17th, 2007, 08:29 AM

Interesting, I like how these relate to your battle reports in your other thread! Down with Hulk!!!I got my inspiration from the battle. I just created an interesting looking map and the story evovled around it while I was playing. Of course everything that happens in my fights is not directly retold in the story, I give myself some creative flexibility. Hence the battle against the Hulk takes place with the kyrie rather than the Monks and Guardians as in the Predict the Victor thread.

On a side note, I added the following to my first page explainations:

Where does Marvelscape fit in?
This is a tough one to anwer. As the superheroes are not summoned by any one general, or at least not loyal to one, it is difficult to think of how they arrived in Valhalla. The simple way is to say they do not exist in Valhalla, but the close relation between the two games (obviously, they both are Heroscape) and the fact the point costs are balanced between the two makes me think that somehow or another they arrived in Valhalla. The exact methods differ, but I do have a story or two explain the existance of these beings.

johnny139

November 17th, 2007, 10:48 AM

Bloody the Marro Stinger

November 17th, 2007, 11:22 AM

It is implied we will see more of the Hulk by the last line, I think.
And this was great! You should have a combined Marro, Human, and Viper force with Marvel Heroes here and there kill the Hulk. Taht would be awesome, but you probably already have a train of thought.
Again, this was awesome! :D

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 17th, 2007, 11:37 AM

Ah. The Hulk. Wasn't expecting that. :D

VERY well done battle scene. The Hulk vs. Minions is probably the best part - I can just imagine the carnage, random swings and throws and punched. Also, the bullet train analogy with Taelord was fantastic... I can just imagine - Connection... tick... tick... BOOM! He goes flying back.That's I hope this makes up for cutting out the first Dzu-Teh/Minions fight. I really enjoyed writing this scene and like you said the bullet train analogy was my favorite. :)

So, is there going to be more with Hulk? Or is this the end of his little story?

And MarvelScape in Valhalla - Valhalla is a planet, right? Thanos and Silver Surfer surf the universe all the time. Iron Man could probably fund a rocket, I mean, he sent Hulk to another planet a year ago. The X-Men have a ton of history with aliens and such. It shouldn't be hard to piece them together.It is implied we will see more of the Hulk by the last line, I think.
And this was great! You should have a combined Marro, Human, and Viper force with Marvel Heroes here and there kill the Hulk. That would be awesome, but you probably already have a train of thought. For the Hulk, Bloody is right, the last line shows he will still be around to terrorize the people of Valhalla. But as for this individual story, it is over. I'm sure sometime in the future hulk will make another appearance though. :) As for the other Marvel Heroes I have ways that I can imagine them arriving in Valhalla, but your thoughts aren't far off and they've helped my with Silver Surfer and Thanos. I don't know how much I will dwell on the Marvel characters though. And finally to Bloody, of course one day the heroes will team up to try and take down the Hulk, the question just becomes if they can. :lol:

Again, this was awesome! :DThanks guys! I appreciate the feedback alot!

Akralon

November 17th, 2007, 07:36 PM

Mycophycophyta

November 18th, 2007, 12:34 PM

I didn't actually think that the Marvel characters were brought to Valhalla. I thought that with Marvelscape coming out it was in New York City. I assumed it was New York because that is were most, or all, of the heros in the set are from and with the building, concrete, and asphalt. Also I I thought it unlikely because Valhalla is mostly Medieval.

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 19th, 2007, 05:53 PM

The Hulk - what a great twist. I agree with Johnny - didn't see that one coming. I always forget about Marvel.

You tied it in well. I like the transition from mass panic and carnage to a silent scape of dead kyrie and no sign of the Hulk. It adds an eerie element. Excellent short.Thanks a lot, I really did like this third part the best.

I didn't actually think that the Marvel characters were brought to Valhalla. I thought that with Marvelscape coming out it was in New York City. I assumed it was New York because that is were most, or all, of the heros in the set are from and with the building, concrete, and asphalt. Also I I thought it unlikely because Valhalla is mostly Medieval.Hmmm.. I guess that could work too, but since the games are the same, I like to think they both co-exist on the same world. You are correct that the scenarios take place in New York though. Not sure what you mean by Valhalla is mostly Midieval...

Again, a big thanks to everyone who gave feedback it really helps. :D I'm having trouble deciding which of two stories to choose first, but then I just have to go through an edit of either, so I should have another one tomorrow.

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 23rd, 2007, 01:38 PM

The Valhallan Games; Part I
1st day of Crolig, 64 A.D.

Two attendants unlatched the huge bronze double doors, and each taking a side, they slowly forced open the entranceway. The sounds of trumpets blared, and soon the roar of a cheering crowd immersed the area. Cascading seats ended ten feet above the ground level; a light brown, ovular dirt arena was the centerpiece of this grand stadium. Warriors of all races occupied the grandstand, each located in his respective section. Of the five colored divisions, red was the largest, followed by blue, green, orange, and grey correspondingly. Separated by only about ten columns of seating, each faction applauded themselves and jeered at those nearby; the massive coliseum was bursting with a multitude of sounds.

But, just above the din of the throng, an authoritative voice over a loudspeaker could be heard, “Welcome champions, to the Valhallan games!”

***

Kyrie have always been a competitive species, from simple flight contests, to the ongoing race to find and control wellsprings. So what would be more fitting as an ultimate show of superiority than a collection of events specifically derived in order to crown a Champion of Valhalla? Established in the year now known as 65 B.D. the Valhallan Games is the premier showcase of talents, skills, and cunning in all forms of battle. However with the recent rise to power of the Valkyrie, these games have taken on a greater significance; to determine which general possess the mightiest warrior in all of Valhalla.

Five warriors would be selected by each Valkyrie; twenty-five warriors would enter the arena, but only one would be crowned champion.

***

Just through each of the five sets of massive doors stood each general’s grandest warriors. Each had come from a different time and place, but now they were all united on one field, for one cause; to become the Champion of Valhalla.

The voice on the loudspeaker crackled to life once again, “You all have been chosen to partake in these games, this is no small honor for one of you will be crowned Champion of Valhalla. You know the stakes, you know the rewards, and now let the Valhallan Games begin!” A roar arose from the crowd, cheering on their champions towards victory.

Then, the large arena slowly began transform itself, creating five smaller, distinctive rings. The warriors on the dirt floor looked up in awe as these massive battlefields rose. Suddenly each warrior felt himself transported to one of the five smaller arenas.

“The challenge is,” the announcer’s voice boomed over the entire stadium, “to escape your respective battlegrounds. There is one portal somewhere inside of each field, and the last warrior to find and use the device will be eliminated for next round. Let the first event begin!”

***

The ground was wet and slippery. Trees of all shapes and forms rose up in every direction, dense foliage covered the ground floor, but no sign of movement could be detected. The greenery before him was too thick to see more than a few feet deep, but Agent Sanders knew that somewhere before him lie his shot at victory. Approaching the nearest tree Sanders took hold of the lowest branch and lifted himself up. Careful to keep extraneous movement to a minimum, he scaled the tree for a better view.

Before his eyes lay a remarkable sight, in every direction there appeared and endless rainy jungle. Looking up, Sanders could see no cheering crowd, or arena seating, only a grey sky with misting rains. Thoughts raced across his mind, –This is unbelievable, I must have been transported to large rainforest, yet I clearly heard an announcer’s voice. This must be some sort of illusion set up by very advanced optical programming, I must be sure to ask Vydar about it once I have won this contest.–

Then turning his focus back to the job at hand, Sanders scanned the expanse for any sign of motion or bright lights.

***

If there was one thing Soulborgs did not like, it was excess moisture. All the water dripping around, sometimes hitting their circuits, this was probably the least desirable environment for Zettain Guard #2708. On top of the rainy quality of the land, it was dense with undergrowth. Weeds, thorns, and all matter of plant life tangled in 2708’s armored legs, his already slow pace was dampened to a crawl.

A low buzzing emanated from #2708, followed by a computerized voice which spoke in a dull monotone way, “INITIATING THERMAL SCAN… SCANNING… SCANNING… SCANNING COMPLETE. HEAT EMITTING LIFE FOUND. DIRECTION, DUE SOUTH” For a Soulborg, #2708 was pleased, he only had to follow this being to find the portal.

***

He belonged in the highlands, not some god-forsaken jungle. The dew and water, the trees, the lack of clear vision; it was all just too much. Cairell MacDirk fought off the seemingly endless plants, tearing down vine after vine with his sword. He spoke outloud, as no one was close by, “Aye, this ‘ere challenge ain’t what’in I bargained for. Once I find ‘dere portal, I is gerna give tha’ there announcer some piece a my mind.”

***

A loud grumbling voice was easy enough to track. The task only became simpler as the Jandarian warrior tore down every piece of greenery before him. Samurai were inherently masters of the hunt, but Atsuko Izumi had been superior to all back home in Japan. –This fool will lead me straight to the portal, then I will make my presence known, and in his confusion, beat him inside, ensuring my victory. Yes it will work.–

***

There it was, and what a beautiful sight to behold. In clear view stood a yellow arching gate, and under it the unmistakable purple glow of the typical portal. The snake knew he had somewhat of an advantage, spending most of his life in the jungles of Marr, but that did not stop him. Slithering the last few feet out from the covering flora, the Venoc Viper advanced through the open gate.

The Viper was instantly transported to an empty area, the ecstatic Ullar warriors made it clear to the Viper he had won.

***

Agent Sanders had found what he was looking for, there in the distance, using the Microcorp’s standard issue binoculars, he could make out a faint purple glow. In his head, he rejoiced, –Ah hah, I’ve got this now– and bounded out of the tree, headed directly for the escape.

Sanders ducked and weaved through the trees, progressing at record speed in such a dense forest. In a matter of minutes, he stood, panting, in front of his exist. But just as he was about to walk though something to the left of the portal caught his eye.

There, lying completely still, was the body of Cairell MacDirk. A large bullet hole created a gaping hole in the warrior's stomach. Suddenly concerned for his own safety, Sanders turned and dove through the portal.

He was the fourth warrior to escape, and the fifth would never make it. Of the Viper, Samurai, and Soulborg, only one of the soldiers here could have dealt such a blow to the highlander, the Zettain Guard.

***

to be continued…

Akralon

November 23rd, 2007, 03:46 PM

This is great - a wonderful new twist to Valhallan storytelling.

The tournament is a fun idea, and simply wanting to see who wins and who loses, and of course who kills who, is enough to keep me reading.

johnny139

November 23rd, 2007, 04:52 PM

Bloody the Marro Stinger

November 23rd, 2007, 08:58 PM

Great idea, h1h1h1! Just one question: Why are only the squad members in and not any of the heroes? More interesting that way?

Akralon

November 23rd, 2007, 10:53 PM

I was wondering that myself. When you said Champion, I immediately thought of Agent Carr and Drake Alexander.

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 24th, 2007, 09:10 AM

Ah! Another thing I love - tournaments!

Very interesting, though it seemed a bit rushed. Not sure what to say, other than a bit of a step back when it comes to character dialogue, but a step forward in detail.Thanks johnny I was looking more for the detail in this piece. There was not much dialogue in this first part, but when the events change around for next round there will be.

Great idea, h1h1h1! Just one question: Why are only the squad members in and not any of the heroes? More interesting that way?I was wondering that myself. When you said Champion, I immediately thought of Agent Carr and Drake Alexander. First let me say there are 20 other figures not yet described. :wink: So you may get a hero in there, who knows. Actually I struggled with having squads or a heros tournament, but in the end I went in the direction of squads for a couple of reasons.

The biggest reason is that if I kill them off, it doesn't really matter. Unique Sqads matter more, but because of the whole respawning thing, not so much. If i went with Unique Heroes, I think it would be very difficult for me to kill off up to 24 different heroes. Even though they do come back, it just seemed smoother to go with squads.

A smaller reason was I thought about it from the Valkyrie's point of view. If I were Jandar, would I want to send Raelin, Finn, Sgt. Drake, Concan, and Thorgrim into a tournament that might end their lives and leave me heroless for at least a month? No, I would not want to take the chance in the middle of a huge war to lose my top warriors.

I hope that clears things up a little. Oh and check the frist page for a new question about naming squad figures. :)

Thanks for reading everyone! And especially for leaving feedback.

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 24th, 2007, 11:29 AM

The Valhallan Games, Part II
1st day of Crolig, 64 A.D.

“Ah crap…” Private Michaels narrowly ducked a steaming plasma ball headed straight at his face. Trying to stay low in the waist high grass, the soldier took cover as additional green shots rocketed past him, instantly disintegrating individual strands. Finding a large rock to take cover behind, Michaels retrieved his M1903, thirty caliber rifle from his shoulder. Issuing his own threats, he mumbled to himself, “that bag a crap’s gonna taste his own spattered blood before long,” and lifted his gun to its target.

About 150 yards across an open field stood his enemy, the Marro Warrior Ga-Tan-Ve. The gun-wielding Marro had been taking shots at Michaels since he first spotted the portal, located dead center in the pasture, but it would be suicide to attempt the escape with Marro fire surrounding him.

Ga-Tan-Ve knew this. He knew the portal was the one chance of escape, and he knew every warrior would need to pass directly by him to advance to the next round of this tournament. Now he had found his first victim in the Airborne Elite, if he were dead only four warriors would remain, meaning Ga-Tan-Ve would have to move on. Whispering to himself, he tried to bait the Airborne, such as his leader Ne-Gok-Sa would have; the Marro’s voice was raspy but calming, any who heard it were lulled into a false sense of security, “You have no reason to hide puny soldier. Stand and face your death like an honorable man, I promise it will be quick, but not painless.” The warrior cackled, a hideous smile crossed his face, soon enough the soldier would die.

Ga-Tan-Ve did not know what happened next; it was as though his arms and legs had been instantly bound by an unseen force. But it was not unseen. A machine’s voice spoke into the Marro’s ear, “BEGIN ANALYZING THREAT… ANALYZING… ANALYZING… NO THREAT DETECTED. RELEASE AND PROCEED TO PORTAL.” SR4F6 threw Ga-Tan-Ve’s body into the nearest rock. A short grunt was heard, but then silence. His sensors were never wrong; the Marro was not a threat.

***

–Meditation is often the quickest way to a solution, to clear ones mind of everything but the dilemma at hand– the monk’s thinking came straight from his Shaolin monastery. Xuan Yin was seated on a large boulder, just above the tips of the yellow grass. His body in absolute stiffness, his mind emptied of everything, Xuan focused on his goal.

In a flash of white light, the monk saw his escape and instantly knew where it was located. Leaping off the rock, Xuan Yin set off for the portal. When he had come within 300 yards, Xuan issued a final leap to reach it.

Just then a shot rang out, followed by a stream of curses by Private Micheals, “You freaking moron, what the hell is your problem. Freakin’ jumping in my line of fire like a retard, haven’t you been told to look before you leap.” The private would have continued to throw around some more choice words if it had not been for the flash of purple. He turned to his right to see the last of an armored arm disappear into the abyss.

“Ah crap, I’d better get the hell outta here.” And the soldier left the dead monk in his resting position and exited the arena.

***

Lucius Iunius Caecus had watched it all, from the opening plasma shots to the death of the monk. Two warriors had entered the portal, one lie dead, another unconscious, and the final was himself. The Roman Legionary now stood above the blacked-out Marro, one thrust of his sword could kill the helpless creature, but should he do it. Lucius had an obligation to help Einar in everyway possible, and Einar had allied himself with Utgar. The choice was there: to help Einar by eliminating a competitor, or help Einar by keeping his allies alive.

Flipping Ge-Tan-Ve from his stomach to his back, Lucius made his choice.

***

SR4F6 looked back as a third warrior crashed through the portal. There, at his feet, lay the Marro, in the same helpless heap he had been left by the Gladiatron.

***
to be continued…

Bloody the Marro Stinger

November 24th, 2007, 11:36 AM

Wait, Einar is allied with Jandar and Ullar as of current... or is this BEFORE Swarm of the Marro?
Besides that, great story, again! Yay for suicidal monks! :D

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 24th, 2007, 11:38 AM

Wait, Einar is allied with Jandar and Ullar as of current... or is this BEFORE Swarm of the Marro?
Besides that, great story, again! Yay for suicidal monks! :D Check the date, :wink:, it takes place somewhere during the summoning of wave 4.

Bloody the Marro Stinger

November 24th, 2007, 11:46 AM

Yeah, I forgot to look at the dates as I was typing that. But only Wave 4 and below is kind of limiting yourself, but who am I to complain? This story is awesome anyways! :D

Akralon

November 24th, 2007, 11:55 AM

I don't understand why both the gladiatron and the Roman let the marro live. Aren't they just going to have to kill him eventually anyway?

I see you take a tactical approach to what to describe and what to leave out, which is good to avoid redundancy, but sometimes it can make the story choppy, too.

An interesting chapter, nonetheless.

Bloody the Marro Stinger

November 24th, 2007, 11:56 AM

Because at this point in the story, Utgar is allied with Vydar and Einar. See the Roman's reasoning for why they let him live.

johnny139

November 24th, 2007, 12:01 PM

Hooray Romans!

Interesting chapter... so eight people have finished, two died, and 15 we still don't know about?

Bloody the Marro Stinger

November 24th, 2007, 12:10 PM

Correct. For reference, here's a list of the people alive and dead, as well as who killed who and their kill count:
ALIVE (in order of appearance):
Agent Sanders (Microcorp Agent)
Zettain Guard #2708 (...Zettain Guard) - Kill Count: 1
Atsuko Izumi (Izumi Samurai)
"The Viper" (Venoc Viper)
Private Michaels (Airborne Elite) - Kill Count: 1
Ga-Tan-Ve (Marro Warrior)
SR4F6 (Gladiatron)
Lucius Iunius Caecus (Roman Legionaire)
DEAD (in order of appearance):
Cairell Macdirk (Macdirk Warrior): Killed by Zettain Guard #2708.
Xuan Yin (Shaolin Monk): Killed by Private Michaels.

hi1hi1hi1hi1

November 24th, 2007, 04:37 PM

Bloody has it right, except Sanders is a Microcorp.

As for why the Marro was allowed to live, the goal isn't to kill people, but rather to not be the last to escape. It just happens that two guys were killed, as it was an easier victory if you knew one would never cross the portal.

Was this one a little choppy? It was weird, I was writing it, but I didn't realize what I was doing and then all of a sudden I had the next part. Anyway I started part III...

Bloody the Marro Stinger

December 2nd, 2007, 09:41 PM

I know you've forgotten about this, so let's give this the bumper.

hi1hi1hi1hi1

December 3rd, 2007, 04:37 PM

Thanks Bloody, I haven't forgotten, just been very busy with the start of Winter Track at school...

hi1hi1hi1hi1

December 20th, 2007, 10:51 PM

With Christmas only a few days away, a nice calm story seemed appropriate. I really tried to focus on imagery in this one, tell me what you think! :D

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sgt. Drake’s Christmas
19th Day of Endall, 62 A.D.

A hundred or so distant stars twinkled brilliantly in the evening sky; their light providing the planet below with a subtle radiant glow. A shimmering layer of snow reflected the heavenly scene back upon itself so that the entire world appeared an endless starry night. It was times like these, times when each tree glowed luminously from a combination of celestial coruscation and incandescent ice, times when the whole world seemed at peace with itself. These rare and angelic happenings occur only in infrequent intervals, but who should be lucky enough to intake the majesty of these scenes can do little but marvel in their absolute beauty.

Sergeant Drake Alexander had been gazing upon this breathtaking vista for an immeasurable amount of time. His thoughts had drifted from the picturesque elegance to a multitude of jubilant memories, and currently he recalled his most joyous moment.

Drake was a young four years old and it was every Christian child’s favorite day of the year, Christmas Eve. This year Drake would see the jolly ole’ Saint Nick, somehow he knew it. His mother had just pulled the covers up snug around his small frame and kissed him on the forehead; his father was out on a top secret military mission, but that was not unusual for a lieutenant ninety percent of the year. Flicking off the light switch by Drake’s door, his fighter plane mobile slowed to a halt and turned dim. His mother’s sweet whispered voice echoed back through the crack of the door, “I love you Drake. Sleep well and Santa will come visit tonight.” With a low click, the door closed and Drake lay in darkness.

His task needed to be completed in silence; stealth was key to every operation, his father had taught him that. Lifting first the comforter, then the bed sheet, Drake crawled out from his complacent coverings. Three socks surrounded each one of Drake’s tiny feet, his belief being the extra cushioning would prevent the squeaky floorboards from attracting attention. The soundless touch of a single clothed foot confirmed Drake’s instincts, and soon Drake was on his tiptoes reaching for the shiny golden doorknob. Turning it more cautiously than jeweler holds his precious diamonds, Drake allowed himself to slip into the lightless hallway.

It was only ten feet to the end of the passageway and the top of the staircase that led directly to the Alexander family tree, but to a young child it seemed like a mile. Drake took quick baby steps, his heart racing faster for every inch closer to his dream he came. Finally he reached the hallway’s termination and the beginning of his descent. Two sets of tiny fingers gripped each vertical railing post and stepping down sideways, two feet per step, Drake made his way to the first floor. As he landed his final step, Drake looked wide-eyed up at the back of the largest red coat he had ever seen.

The portly man turned himself around upon hearing a thump, only to find young Drake sitting in disbelief, face struck with the most adorable puppy eyes, “Oh-ho, ho, ho, and what do we have here?” the burly man gave little Drake a gracious smile, “it seems you are a rascally young tyke to escape your bed. Well ho, ho, ho I see no reason not to give you your gift,” and reaching down beneath a red and gold adorned tree, Santa lifted a large beautifully wrapped present and handed it to the waiting child, “Merry Christmas Drake Alexander.”

The next time Drake looked up he was again gazing over the snow covered fields before him. The night was already showing signs of the morning to come, with a gradual brilliant light peeking over the eastern frontier, yet all was still serene. Drake knew it was time to ready himself for the next day’s events, but another few minutes would hurt no one. So Drake sat longer and watched, as a magnificent red and yellow sun overtook the night.

Metaknight

December 21st, 2007, 05:46 AM

This is pretty cool! I like the whole Christmas in Valhalla thing. The knights must really be into it :D

hi1hi1hi1hi1

December 21st, 2007, 06:10 PM

Thanks Metaknight!

Anyone else take a look at it? I know it has been awhile since I've posted, but I didn't think this story was too bad.

johnny139

December 21st, 2007, 07:30 PM

For some reason, that story made me realize what a weird name Drake is. Drake... it doesn't sound right.

Anyways, very pretty story. Pretty much fluff, but hey, it's a Christmas Story... most of them are fluffy. :D

hi1hi1hi1hi1

December 22nd, 2007, 06:23 PM

Maintaining the Silence
21st Day of Endall, 63 A.D.

–All is quiet, almost too quiet…Ha, that’s exactly what every movie hero says right before something horrible happens to him– Agent Carr almost laughed out loud over his thoughts while making his way through the cold and damp ruins of an ancient kyrie fortress. A foreboding mist swirled around in the long deserted palace, and only a sliver of moonlight could be seen poking through the clouds above. In the past few hours a strong wind had begun to form and a steady snowfall had coated the ground with almost an inch of powder. The most eerie part of the whole scene however, was the dead silence of the atmosphere; not a bird cawed, not a rodent rustled, not even the wind howled.

Agent Carr traveled alone, for this was how he preferred to work. There was less chance of failure when there was only one being to account for, and with a direct assignment from Vydar there was no room for error. Nimbly stepping over the fallen columns and broken walls, Carr searched the demolished ruins, looking for any sign that would lead him to what he sought.

Suddenly, without even a simple warning, the master of stealth and combat held a Marro Drone pressed back against the blade of his Sword of Reckoning. Carr’s voice was low and full of the same threatening calm of a seasoned assassin, “I’ll give you one chance Marro, where is Na-Ga-Tu?”

But the Marro did not get one chance. All he felt was cold steel penetrating the fleshy region below his head and then nothing at all. “Too slow,” was Carr’s only response.

In the distance a second two Marros could be seen, and Carr was not one to play around when multiple enemies existed. Crouching below the nearest crumbled stone, he waited as the two scouts approached.

Bang! The farther of the Drones fell down immediately, a hole in his chest gushing blood. In another split second the closer joined his partner on the ground, this time due to a slash across the back. Then, as if nothing had happened Carr resumed his crouched position and allowed a slight grin to cross his face, –Like slaying the helpless– he thought.

***

–What? Was that a gun shot?– A group of five Marro Drones looked up in puzzlement upon their leader. He was quite a bit larger than the others, with a crest nearly double the height of an average Marro’s. His banded spear and commanding stance indicated he was no regular Drone.

Na-Ga-Tu was part of a new experiment. Rather than drinking of the wellspring waters, Na-Ga-Tu along with seven others in Utgar’s army had been showered with the sacred liquid. The result was a slightly increased intelligence and a nearly doubled brute strength level for the Marro Drone. Immediately he was given a position in command of several Drones and summoned to meet Ne-Gok-Sa in the war on Utgar’s southern front.

He was headed there now when a shot ahead had halted his progress. Shooting his companions looks of disgust; the Marro communicated his orders telepathically. –It was most obviously a shot fools. Now spread out and find from where it occurred– sometimes Na-Ga-Tu wondered if he was the only Drone with any intelligence, though for the most part he was.

***

Carr had been watching the heavy powder pile upon itself when suddenly he felt the prod of a spear in his back. Looking back, the agent’s face lit up with horror. Three Drones had closed in behind him and now smiled wickedly behind their fleshy teeth. Their grins only widened as the nearest one kicked Carr in the gut while he was in the process of reaching for his pistol. The force of the unexpected blow knocked the gun out of the agent’s hand and slid it across the icy snow. A second kick to the face left Carr bleeding from the mouth and nose. Grimacing, Carr turned to stand, but the ends of an additional two sharpened spears made him think otherwise.

Carr looked for his pistol hoping for a way out, but his facial expression only turned to dismay when he saw a bloodied foot had stopped his gun mid skid. Tracing up to its owner, Carr only uttered one word, “Finally.”

With the stealth of a ninja Carr unsheathed his sword, and with a quick roll to the right cut down the first Drone. Then before another could respond the other four fell to the floor, identical wounds to the head were the sources of death.

“So Na-Ga-Tu, we meet at last,” Carr had turned to face the oversized Drone, “Are you prepared to die?”

A raspy, barely understandable voice replied, “Is I who should be asking you the question,” and Na-Ga-Tu raised his spear for combat and lunged towards his target.

But he did not hit Agent Carr, and the stealth master appeared behind Na-Ga-Tu just as he had began to realize his fatal mistake. Carr struck with a forceful blow, and the Marro could do little but squeal in pain. The last things to echo between the Drone’s ears were Carr’s deadly words “Good night filth.”

And as Carr stood above the lifeless Marro he knew his mission was complete. The snow had lightened to a dusting and the wind seemed a little less harsh. But the silence remained, “All is quiet, perfectly quiet.”