Deep within the Guild City, at the very end of the Path of Nine behind the steel district, lies the Crag Colosseum. Built into the very earth itself, centered around a towering crag rising up toward the sky. Around this natural tower of stone is built a single gigantic colosseum, the construction of which creates two large open arenas with seating for hundreds, separated by the crag. Within the internal structure of colosseum are numerous rooms and corridors all intertwined to promoted a sense of connectedness.
Beneath the earth and indeed within the immense crag, are the rooms which are off limits to the public, as they are used exclusively by those who training in and maintain the Crag Colosseum. This converted Kindir vault is home to the Brotherhood of Warriors, a society dedicated to the art of improving themselves through constant training and conflict. The head of the guild, Dieter Snakebite, has very little time for the everyday matters, choosing to focus on training with the more experienced warriors. Bajan the Fist oversees the day to day activities, including formal challenges and induction of new warriors.
**A solitary figure made his approach through the valley, climbing ever towards his destination: Crag Colosseum and the Brotherhood of Warriors. He carried nothing but a sword buckled at his side, and a single pack. Dust covered and travel worn, the silver-haired man, who was much clearer now that he was closer, had a look of determination about him. A look that said I am in need of something more, perhaps this was the start of that beginning.**
"Let's hope so. It won't be long now, my love."
**With a last look up at the darkening night sky, the figure made his way into the domed structure, into his new home and his new family.**
Grehym was greeted by the smell of dust and blood, the latter very muted. The entrance area of the Crag Colosseum was expansive, with a domed ceiling high enough that Grehym couldn't pick out the details.
There were seats and tables off to either side of the area, and a small bar in the corner. Further along there were several sparring rings, a couple in active use though none fighting with weapons.
**The young swordsman took it all in with a sense of both awe and yearning, a few years away from the farm hadn't prepared him for everything Bakara had to offer. With a deep breath he walked over to the sparring rings, watching one of fights that were in progress with honest interest.**
A young atarin woman with turquoise skin was fighting an older kindirin man, the sparring seemed to be very intense. The atarin seemed to favor an approach similar to kick-boxing while the kindir was focusing on grapples and throws. He heard a voice behind him.
The imposing figure he turned to face was tall, well proportioned and had thick mousy brown hair cut incredibly short and left unstyled. He held out a hand and shook Grehym's firmly in return.
Bajan- Bajan the Fist. Its my responsibility to induct and watch over new brothers and sisters.
Bajan headed out of the entrance area, into a long curving corridor. Through the side of the wall that face the center of the building, Grehym saw arched gaps in the stonework through which he caught glimpses of a large open space. Bajan eventually turned down another corridor, doubling back on himself and descending a flight of stairs into a room lit by hearth and torches.
Bajan- This room is directly below the one which you first entered, the heat from the fire here warms stone above where our brothers rest from their training. A new brother is a boon to us all.
Bajan- Very well. Do you intend to forego the deeper mysteries of the magical arts in favour of true discipline and personal improvement? Do you swear to show due deference and respect to your Brothers and Sisters? Do you vow to uphold the principles of the Brotherhood of Warriors?
Grehym - I swear it upon my life and blood to uphold the sanctity of the Brotherhood, to rely upon nothing but my sword and own strength of arms, and to honor the face of my Brothers and Sisters through combat. That is my oath, and this is so I remember it.
**He drew his sword halfway from its sheath at his side, and sliced open a skin deep gash on his palm.**
A smile broke through Bajan's otherwise calm countenance. He pulled out a small piece of iron, fashioned in the shape of a fist over a crossed pair of swords.
Bajan- The symbol or our Brotherhood. The fist represents your place among us, the swords your fellow Warriors.
Bajan gave a quick bow as he handed it over.
Bajan- Now, we deal with the formality of the guild tithe and get you started on your path.
**The boy followed along, keeping pace with Bajan.**
Grehym - Well, I've had formal training growing up with access to a master of arms and a practice yard. After I came of age I fought in a few melees mostly but nothing dangerous. That came later, when I wandered Elexia for a time, taking on random duels for honor here and there, trying to improve my skills on my own. Swordsmanship is my soul, sir.
Grehym - ... (He contemplates his answer) Help temper my rough edges into a finely honed edge. I lack focus, but I am ready to do whatever it takes to perfecting my art. And brotherhood, it's been awhile since I've had a place to call home.
Beneath the earth and indeed within the immense crag, are the rooms which are off limits to the public, as they are used exclusively by those who training in and maintain the Crag Colosseum. This converted Kindir vault is home to the Brotherhood of Warriors, a society dedicated to the art of improving themselves through constant training and conflict. The head of the guild, Dieter Snakebite, has very little time for the everyday matters, choosing to focus on training with the more experienced warriors. Bajan the Fist oversees the day to day activities, including formal challenges and induction of new warriors.
"Let's hope so. It won't be long now, my love."
**With a last look up at the darkening night sky, the figure made his way into the domed structure, into his new home and his new family.**
To live is to hope, and while we breathe, we hope and live.
There were seats and tables off to either side of the area, and a small bar in the corner. Further along there were several sparring rings, a couple in active use though none fighting with weapons.
To live is to hope, and while we breathe, we hope and live.
Voice- Impressive, aren't they?
Grehym - Quite impressive, yes. The Brotherhood really does have warriors from every stretch of the continent.
To live is to hope, and while we breathe, we hope and live.
**He turned to the man beside him, removing his glove to extend a well calloused hand.**
Grehym - The names Grehym Lyonbeth.
To live is to hope, and while we breathe, we hope and live.
Bajan- Bajan the Fist. Its my responsibility to induct and watch over new brothers and sisters.
To live is to hope, and while we breathe, we hope and live.
Bajan headed out of the entrance area, into a long curving corridor. Through the side of the wall that face the center of the building, Grehym saw arched gaps in the stonework through which he caught glimpses of a large open space. Bajan eventually turned down another corridor, doubling back on himself and descending a flight of stairs into a room lit by hearth and torches.
To live is to hope, and while we breathe, we hope and live.
**The young swordsman placed one on on his hilt and the other over his heart in a fist, bowing his head in the process.**
To live is to hope, and while we breathe, we hope and live.
**He drew his sword halfway from its sheath at his side, and sliced open a skin deep gash on his palm.**
To live is to hope, and while we breathe, we hope and live.
Bajan- The symbol or our Brotherhood. The fist represents your place among us, the swords your fellow Warriors.
Bajan gave a quick bow as he handed it over.
Bajan- Now, we deal with the formality of the guild tithe and get you started on your path.
Grehym - Of course.
To live is to hope, and while we breathe, we hope and live.
Bajan- Tell me about your training so far, Brother Grehym.
Grehym - Well, I've had formal training growing up with access to a master of arms and a practice yard. After I came of age I fought in a few melees mostly but nothing dangerous. That came later, when I wandered Elexia for a time, taking on random duels for honor here and there, trying to improve my skills on my own. Swordsmanship is my soul, sir.
To live is to hope, and while we breathe, we hope and live.
To live is to hope, and while we breathe, we hope and live.
To live is to hope, and while we breathe, we hope and live.
Bajan- I think you'll find some of what you're after here.