Fists of Mayhem: Part 1

 Episode Name:  Fists of Mayhem: Part 1
   Written By:  Genesis
         Cast:  Albertz, Caeli, Churas, Donavon, Dovoro, Genesis, Ha'nuQ, Randal 
                and Sharei.
  Produced By:  Starfleet
  Directed By:  Genesis
     Aired On:  Sat Jun 14 03:24:38 2003
     Stardate:  53287

Time: Fri Jun 13 22:23:54 2003

Stardate: 53286.5

Ha'nuQ, son of Ha'Qur, of the House of Cha'nuQ, stands to the side of the courtyard, which seems frozen in time. He's leaning against a foo lion, waiting for the others to show. And he has his groove on. His 'fro is nearly two feet in diameter; his platform shoes of shiny patent leather. And the collar on that shirt...!

Churas, on the other hand, does not have her groove on. She is, in fact, anti-groove. She is the anti-groovitron to her cousin's posi-groovitron. But. She's here. And she is, at least, in costume. Having forgone the platforms in favor of low-heeled shoes in one last protest against the clothing she's wearing, she uncomfortably adjusts her top as she strides into the holodeck, muttering to herself. Churas whispers to herself, "And people wonder why I wear the male style of armor. Look at this! It provides a veritable target. 'Please hit me here!' Ridiculous. If I fall out of this getup, I am going to take very sincere revenge upon my cousin." She strides across the courtyard toward Ha'nuQ, looking as vaguely discomfitted as her usual non-expression sort of expression will allow.

Sharei strides into the courtyard, hazori shading his features, while the theme from Starship Yamato plays in the background. He looks up. "So..." he says quietly. "It has begun." His lips move just a bit before his speech is actually heard.

Caeli steps through the arches a bit behind Sharei, looking for all the world like what Jean-Claude Van Damme would if he happened to join the Blue Man Group right before getting into costume for the Street Fighter movie. His step mixes military precision with Han Solo cockiness - he's good, and he knows it. He flexes his right forearm, the muscles up his arm rippling to distort the UFP tattoo on his shoulder, before rolling his shoulders. The massive expanse of false blond hair shifts as he does so, before returning to its normal flat-top as he comes to a stop, surveying those assembled with an appraising eye. Who to sonic boom first...

Randal wanders onto the holoprogram not long after the others. His costume's not as elaborate as many of the other participants in this holodrama, but he has that certain spring in his step that's in character. You can almost here the 'wokkachikawokkachika' in the background. He takes off the overly-large pair of sunglasses he's wearing and comments as he glances from Churas to Sharei on to Caeli, "So, you're my competition for the prize money, huh." Well, Randal certainly didn't check his sarcasm at the door, that's for sure.

Jiving to the disco rhythm with a hip-swaying stride enters the young security officer, Meg Donavon. A finger reaches up to brush a stray curl behind an ear while she curiously darts those whiskey eyes from side to side. She's caught onto that groove thang and is bursting with that soul sistah spirit by wearing a glittery smile that matches her present attire. In platforms that raise her height up four to five inches, the woman manages not to trip and appears casual and entirely comfortable. Notice is given towards the host and thus does this golden fighter approach.

Albertz rolls. No, practically slithers, his movements are so smooth; up to the group with an ambling stride that looks like his constantly trying to find his balance. Stopping a deferential distance from the Great Afro'ed One, he gives the gathered gentlemen a cool nod, cool in fact, it's barely noticeable. Sliding his glasses halfway down his nose, he gazes over them at the lovely ladies, giving each one a long lingering look up, down, and up again. DAAAAAMN!

Ha'nuQ pushes off the foo dog as everyone arrives. His gaze lingers on Donavon for a moment, and then he nods his head, gigantic 'fro bobbing. "Damn, baby," he rumbles, "you fly. That Harris boy...he don't know what he got, sho'." He looks over to Churas, then, and something in his expression trips. He looks her up and down, and then rumbles, "Ah. Well. My congratulations, cousin." He looks to the rest of the group. "It is 1975. You have all been summoned to the island castle of the mysterious Dr. Long to take part in a martial arts tourney. The computer is programmed to respond to how you look and act and what you say, and it will build the story around that. Any questions before we begin, my badass homeslices and homeslicettes?"

Churas eyes Randal for a moment or three before responding, "The only way that you could be competition to a hummingbird is if they checked it at ringside and found its gloves to be non-regulation. I do not know whose competition you might be, but you are certainly not /mine./" One hand rises and flicks a handful of hair back over her shoulder, her eyes turning back to Ha'nuQ. Apparently she has done at least a little research, though the jive talk, it eludes her, like a thing that is elusive. "No, cousin. Thank you."

Sharei's eyes glance in Randal's direction. "Do not make me laugh!" he says. "You are no match for my Deadly Dancing Sanryu-ken Sword Style!" The screen snaps down over his eyes in that slant-letterbox style, while the Japanese kana for 'Lord Dakusu' and 'Master of Deadly Dancing Sanryu-ken Sword Style'. A koto clunks twice. He then glances at Ha'nuQ and shakes his head. "No, thank you."

Caeli folds his arms across his chest, looking about stoically. A slight grin cracks his visage as Donavon enters, as he winks her way, before returning to his icy demeanor. "Let's do this," he intones in a voice much deeper than his usual.

Randal smirks even wider at Churas and leans against the nearest foo lion statue. "Well, then, they'd have to check /me/ at the ringside because I'm all non-regulation, baby," he comments smoothly. His gaze slides over to Sharei... and he remains nonplussed. Unable to think of any witty reparte for that spectacle, he moves his attention to Ha'nuQ. "I'm ready to get this party started. Dig?"

Costume check. Lingo barely grasped. Donavon quietly chuckles at the back of her throat and for once thankful the gold powder camouflages the red stain on her cheeks. "Harris boy and I are solid." She smirks while eyeing the host's costume, "But yer pretty fly yourself, disco baby. And I'm ready to groove." A cool survey slides about the semi circle, weighing each opponent carefully though she cracks a wild grin her superior, Caeli, and exacts a subtle wink at Albertz. There is no further comment from the gold one who saves naming her attacks for now.

Ha'nuQ looks from one person to the other as they get into character. He turns his gaze on Albertz, last.

An eyebrow peaks just above Hamish's glasses as Churas delivers her retort to Randal. "Damn Stella, why so heavy on us all of a sudden. Jus' chill, nobody's looking to disrespect you." East Glasgow meets Harlem and a rather bizarre accent is the result, but what it lacks in authenticity is certainly made up for in style and a willingness to play the part to the hilt. He cracks a smooth smile at Sharei's rather flamboyant statement, nodding slowly as if in agreement. "Yeah babe. Solid."

"Yes, obviously. I do not think they generally let anything so... small into the ring," comes Churas's absent reply, even as she eyes Randal sidelong and rather dismissively. Albertz's commentary earns him a sharp-toothed and exceedingly feral grin. "I am simply... doing my thing. As I do. Why are you attempting to place my style into a space too small for it?" A nod to Ha'nuQ, then.

As they slip into character, Ha'nuQ's deep voice rumbles, "Run program." Suddenly, a cool ocean breeze is blowing. There is a shimmering, and the courtyard is suddenly filled with kung fu fighters. Mostly Asian, they range from clean and neat in white gi to nasty-looking characters with eyepatches and scars...in black outfits, of course. And standing in front of the group is a small Asian man, of a compact build, wearing a white business suit and a crimson red tie. He nods to the group.

"I'm glad to see you've arrived," says the man. "And we can finally meet. -I- am Dr. Long, your host. You are here because you are the best martial artists in the world. Today, you will face each other, in single combat. The rules are simple: you lose if you are struck three times more than your opponent! If you leave the ring, you lose!" He scans the group. "And the winner will receive...One. Million. Dollars!"

Sharei faces Dr. Long, listening in stoic silence. His inner dialog echoes out, easily audible. "I _must_ win that money, so that I may rebuild my father's dojo!" He clenches his fist. "I, Lord Dakusu, cannot fail!" Behind him, two schoolgirls in sailor suits wave paper fans, crying with chipmunky cheerfulness and superdeformed cuteness. "Ikuzo, Dakusu-sama! Go, go! Fight!"

Caeli watches with a distinct lack of facial expression, save for what could perhaps be interpreted as a glower. Say one thing about his character, there's not much acting involved. He remains silent, though his thoughts likewise echo throughout the room. ~A million dollars... that'd go a long way towards stopping Bison. These flukes may be qualified for combat... but they're not qualified for victory.~ He rests one heel on a crate, folding his crossed arms over the raised knee.

Randal gets up from his leaning against the statue and steps forward. "That money's slated to fund an early retirement on a cozy little island in the Mediterranian," he comments, apparantly to the competitors that happen to be nearby. He folds his hands and cracks his knuckles. "So unless anyone wants an unexpected early retirement of their own, you better hope you aren't paired up against the Furious Fist."

A hand planted on the hip, Donavon casually leans to the side as though bored with the explanations. But once the words combat and one million dollars reaches this gold struck female's ears, eyes widen along with her smile. "Let's get on with this show for Lucky is raring to dance these fools off stage." The glittery light in her eyes, one of mischief, does express a certain quality of teasing for she is more in for the spirit of combat than the victory.

Ha'nuQ looks down to Long, tilting his head (and 'fro!) as he says, "I'm ready to kick some tail all around this place, sho'!" He looks over to Donavon. "Though it'd be a damn shame to mess up that pretty face, sugar!" She's offered a big grin.

Albertz turns on his heels to face the old man as he speaks. Hamish sticks his thumbs under his belt buckle and stands in relaxed, well, coolness. At the mention of one million dollars he purses his lips and nods his head, a cool million. Ahhhh yeeeah. However, his motivation for participating in the tournament remains as inscrutable as his dark shades.

Dr. Long nods, and says, "Your bravery serves you well. First, Mr. Thorne and Ms. Donavon will face each other." He claps his hands, abruptly. "To the ring!"

Churas folds her arms across... no... that doesn't work in this outfit. Fine. UNDER her chest. /DAMNIT./ And listens. She moves off to the side as the first two competitors are called, her chin tilted up imperiously. The concept of 'one million dollars' seems either lost on her, or she's the obligatory competitor who just fights for the love of the fight. Money is nothing to her. Etc.

Sharei straightens a touch. "Ha!" he says. He follows after the fighters, eager to see his competition in action, gripping his katana as he goes.

Caeli lowers his leg from the crate with a bemused grunt, footfalls heavy as he follows in turn.

"Alright!" Randal seems anxious enough to get things rolling. He strides over to the ring and does a quick warmup routine, jumping from one foot to the other, then stretching his arms in front of him. "Just tell me when you're ready, toots. I'm always ready." He grins widely at Donovan. He's clearly enjoying this.

"Honey," Donavon casts a batty flutter of her eyes at Ha'nuQ, "it'll be in your dreams before you manage to mess up this face." Chuckling after blowing a friendly kiss, for she is wrapped in the character, the woman strolls leisurely towards the ring while stretching her arms out to her sides. Aside from that there is no other warmup exercise. "Always ready for a beating? Intriguing. Hope you won't hold it against me when you lose to girl." An eyebrow lifts to half mock Randal playfully.

Ha'nuQ folds his arms across his chest with a vaguely disgruntled look. -He- wanted to fight Donavon. Stupid program. "Kick his behind across the mat, Megdonavon!" he calls out.

. o O Churas thinks "As long as I do not fight my cousin, I should be all right."

. o O Ha'nuQ thinks "I wanted to fight her. Ah, well. She will make short work of the fool."

Albertz sidles up to Churas, eyes moving behind his glasses, sizing up the other fighters. "My money's on the red-head, what about you, babe?" he asks in his best lounge lizard voice. Thumbs remain under the belt buckle and Hamish's easy stance next to the Klingon woman remains loose and relaxed.

Long walks to stand at the edge of the ring, and looks from one opponent to the other. The air stills for a moment...and then he says, "Begin!"

"Call me babe again and I will nail your internal organs above the door to my home as a warning to others," Churas rumbles, arms still crossed beneath her chest. "I must side with my fellow female warrior, even if she were not fighting against the Fists of the Mosquito in there."

Randal smirks back. "Hope you won't hold it against me if I mess up that pretty 'do of yours on my way to the prize money," he retorts. He sets his arms before him in a ready stance, palms open with fingers together instead of fists, in spite of his self-proclaimed namesake. He circles Donovan a bit, but makes no directly hostile action. He's apparantly defering offense to Donovan.

The various warriors around the rectangle watch, some calling out encouragement to one fighter or the other. So far, Foxy Meg, the Irish Rose, seems to be getting the most votes.

Albertz remains where he is, completely unperturbed by the gruesome threat that's been handed down. "C'mon sweetheart, there's no need tae be jive talkin' like that. Mellow out, enjoy the show." He opens his arms wide, palms up in a gesture of supplication to Churas.

Focus in place, Donavon easily spins upon the front portion of her platforms as the coy cat of Randal circles her. Knees are slightly bent, readying for the opening strike. Like a thrown ninja star does her right arm pierce through the air towards his face while her left foot attempts at a blunt kick to the shin. Shall the thorn embed?

<CONTEST> Donavon (claiming advantage) contests her Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill vs Randal's Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill and Succeeds!

"I am perfectly calm. Now. One more endearment from you, however, and I will lift you by your soft meats and throw you away from me so that I may watch the fights in peace." Churas turns her eyes aside at Albertz for a brief and pointed stare, lest he mistake her threats for anything other than the reality they are.

Randal swings his arm around in an arc to catch the punch, but neglects to put up a low guard. He stumbles back a couple of steps as her kick lands solidly on his right shin. There's a wince of pain, then the smirk returns. "Ah. You are a foxy one, aren't you?" And with that he jumps forward as he makes his hands into fists and attempts to land a quick one-two punch, the first aimed at Donovan's chin and the other at her abdomen.

And the crowd goes wild. The assembled warriors yell out their approval. Long just nods, serenely.

GAME: Randal spends a courage point.

Sharei watches the fight, studying each fighter's moves with studious prescision. "They are not bad fighters," he says to himself. "For gaijin." A half-grin tugs up a corner of his mouth. "Child's play," he whispers as he tightens his grip on his katana.

GAME: Donavon spends a courage point.

Caeli watches with a slight nod, appraising the matchup. "I've seen better." he states simply, resting the toe of his boot on the lip of the ring and folding his arms again over his knee.

<CONTEST> Randal contests his Unarmed Combat (Karate) skill vs Donavon's Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill (given advantage) and Dramatically Fails!

Ha'nuQ looks over to the other two. "I may have seen -better-," he rumbles, "but I don't think I've seen better-looking! Damn! Hot moves on a slinky chick. I looooooove my life."

A long, hissing intake of breath through his teeth signifies Albertz has gotten the message. He takes one wide deliberate sidestep away from Churas, putting enough distance between them to be out of reach but not so much as to be perceived as having run with his tail between his legs. So to speak.

The low, rumbling sound that emerges from Churas in response to Albertz's retreat -- rather like thunder that's rushing up from the horizon rather quickly -- is probably a chuckle. Her face splits into a wide grin, and she watches the fight with keen interest. "Come, sister warrior," her voice contributes low. "Show them that of which a strong female is made."

Unfortunately for Randal, that doesn't quite work as planned, as his attempt to shift his body's force from one fist to the other causes him to trip over his own feet, pretty much. Don't try this at home, kids.

. o O Churas thinks "Ha ha."

One corner of Churas's mouth curls up veeeeeery sloooooowly.

As sly as the fox she's dubbed the punches meet air for Donavon has skirted away by sliding to her opponent's left side. "And wily too," chastises the golden woman. "Never judge a lass by her appearance, but by the strength of her fist." A finger crooks at Randal, enticing him to come hither while lips purse together coolly. This time, it is she who circles the prey as her tone playfully teases to allow him a moment to rise up, "Come on, love. Show a lass how to really groove unless you wish to disappoint me."

Sharei nods sagely. "That one has no discipline," he says to himself. "If _this_ is the caliber of the fighter, then I, Lord Dakusu, will reign supreme!" The koto klonks twice. Klonk klonk.

Various warriors law at Donavon's taunt. Only the nefarious Dr. Long has no comment.

Caeli remains perfectly stoic until Donavon's success, when a grin crosses his face. Briefly. Then back to placid watching.

Randal props himself up by his hands, then his feet. "Don't you know that an opponent is at his most dangerous when you think you've got him down?" And instead of getting up, Randal kicks out at Donavon's legs in a violent mule kick, bracing himself on his arms.

Ha'nuQ barked laughter as Randal tripped on his own feet, and nodded to Donavon as she let fly her taunt.

GAME: Randal spends a courage point.

Albertz tucks thumb and forefinger into his mouth and lets loose a shrill piercing whistle at Donavon's taunting. "Atta girl Meg, get intae his head and play around a bit!" So he broke character for a moment there, what's the biggie?

<CONTEST> Randal contests his Unarmed Combat (Karate) skill vs Donavon's Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill (given advantage) and Fails!

. o O Churas thinks "I hate this outfit."

. o O Ha'nuQ thinks "Ha! Beat the p'taQ into submission! Harris, you lucky targ. Hmph."

One cannot kick what isn't there. Once in the ring, eyes have never left her opponent's shoulders and legs to anticipate where the next attack may arrive. Donavon bends away from the back kick and reacts with a swift brush of her foot towards the defenseless torso.

<CONTEST> Donavon (claiming advantage) contests her Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill vs Randal's Unarmed Combat (Aikido) skill and Fails!

Randal pushes off with his right arm as he rolls his body out of the way of the kick. Planting both arms underneath himself, he pushes himself back up to his feet, and quickly turns to face Donavon, giving her a backhanded punch toward the temple as he pivots.

<CONTEST> Randal contests his Unarmed Combat (Karate) skill vs Donavon's Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill (given advantage) and Fails!

Ha'nuQ turns to Albertz, and shakes his head. "Damn, man. I wish I was in there. Show her what a -real- man can do. Sho'."

Churas is in her usual fight-watching statue mode. She seems to be rather much enjoying watching Randal, and in her own silent way, she's /clearly/ rooting for the only other female in the room.

The fist flies overhead as Donavon ducks beneath the punch the moment her foot lands upon the ground. Still donning the usual playful smile, it stretches like a mad chesire cat or a woman who has been given chocolate when craving, for now Randal's chest is all hers for the taking. A two fisted combination is used in hopes to hit at the shoulderblade and the lower ribcage.

<CONTEST> Donavon (claiming advantage) contests her Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill vs Randal's Unarmed Combat (Aikido) skill and Succeeds!

Caeli smirks slightly, looking over to Ha'nuQ. "They're undisciplined." His statement is brisk, as if explaining all, before he turns back to watch the fight.

Albertz clenches a fist and holds it out to Ha'nuQ in a gesture of solidarity. "I hear that, brother. Though I'm sure she'd be able to show you and I thing or two, if your know what I mean."

Sharei gives Caeli a derisive sniff. "Really. What would a gaijin know about discipline?" he mutters to himself. "That one, too, shall fall."

Randal staggers a bit as he takes another series of blows. He's rather lost his smirk, at this point, but he doesn't seem to have lost his wind entirely. He draws up his leg and gives Donavon a side-thrusting kick, putting as much force as he can must behind his attack.

Caeli looks over to Sharei, glowers, and looks back tot he fight.

. o O Caeli thinks "I hope I fight you next."

<CONTEST> Randal contests his Unarmed Combat (Karate) skill vs Donavon's Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill (given advantage) and Fails!

The mysterious Mr. Long gives Sharei a long, even look, and then Caeli, and nods to himself.

Speed is a key element in this match and Donavon has been trained early on to react in haste. Her arm flicks out to whack aside the kick to give enough time to dart forward and to complete what may become the final blow. The base of her palm is forced ahead to the waist in a possible maneuver to knock Randal down.

<CONTEST> Donavon (claiming advantage) contests her Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill vs Randal's Unarmed Combat (Aikido) skill and Succeeds!

. o O Ha'nuQ thinks "Goodnight, Mr. Thorne. Ha!"

Ha'nuQ grins even wider as he watches Donavon's fluid motions battering their way towards Thorne.

Randal staggers backward and doubles over a bit as Donavan's finishing blow hits him squarely in the abdomen. Now, he's just about out of wind for the time being. Which is just as well, considering that was Donvan's third point, completing the match.

Caeli nods approvingly. The overconfident one was thoroughly trounced.

Sharei nods his head, again that sage look on his face. "So desu ne," he says with grave finality.

Albertz adjusts his glasses somewhat and lets out an admiring albeit, subtle, catcall at Donavon's impressive success.

Long snaps, "Match!" He looks to Donavon. "Megan Donavon wins. Mr. Thorne...you are out of the running. You may stay to watch, and enjoy my hospitality for as long as you are here." He looks over at the warriors. "Lord Dakusu. Mr. Caeli. You are up!"

Sharei nods his head. He unlaces the strap holding on his hazori and tosses it into one corner. He steps into the center of the ring, fixing his gaze on Caeli. "I look forward to this," he says as he bows at the waist.

Caeli lets the very beginnings of a smile overtake him before hoisting himself up into the ring, cracking the knuckles on each hand in turn as he responds in kind. "Me too." He steps back once, falling into a defensive stance for the time being.

Donavon places her two fingertips to her lips then blows a kiss at the fallen Randal. "Be seeing ya, sugar honey on the flip side /after/ I've won the dough." Smug that she was the victor but had thoroughly enjoyed the bout, the golden one adds a wink to lessen the loss. Then, off the ring does she stroll over to join the others. "Toss him out of the rink, Zip baby." Obviously her intentions to who shall win are known now.

. o O Caeli thinks "This is the end, para."

Randal comments, sneering, "Huh... I wasn't really ready to retire anyway." Leaving the ring, he glances over at Donavon and smiles slightly, dropping his act (both of them, possibly) and says very quietly, "Good match."

Ha'nuQ nods appreciatively to Donavon. "Damn, baby, those were some fiiiiiine moves." A wink. "You only save those moves for the fightin', or do you use them elsewhere? Inquiring minds want to know, mama!" His 'fro is positively bobbing with enthusiasm.

Churas looks vaguely annoyed for some reason as the next match is announced.

. o O Churas thinks "Let me hold back my shock. I will be fighting my cousin. I find it impossible to think that he has not planned this."

Sharei steps forward, making his way towards his gaijin opponent. "Now, you will taste the fury of my power!" he says. "Standby! SENKYUU-SWORD PUNCH!" The then lances a fist out at Caeli.

GAME: Sharei spends a courage point.

GAME: Caeli spends a courage point.

<CONTEST> Sharei contests his Unarmed Combat (Aikido) skill vs Caeli's Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill and Fails!

Caeli barely moves, his face a mask of grim determination as one forearm turns Sharei's aside and the other strikes out with the base of the palm towards his xyphoid process in a swift piston-like motion.

<CONTEST> Caeli contests his Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill vs Sharei's Unarmed Combat (Aikido) skill and Succeeds!

Act dropped as well, "Nice mule kick." And that ends her comments for the Lucky Lass aims a feinted punch towards Ha'nuQ's shoulder - one meant to miss or clip. "How about we wager on that? I'll put those inquiring minds to rest with answers if I lose next round. But if I win, then sugar, you'll owe me a training lesson." The sounds of a shuffle alert her and she swivels about face to catch Caeli in action. "Lay it into him, Zip."

Sharei grunts as he steps back, a hand going to his chest where Caeli landed his blow. "H-how?" he gasps, eyes wide in disbelief. Then, he scowls and launches himself forward again. "SENPAI KYUKAKSHU DEATH KIIICK!" he hollers as he goes for a foot sweep.

Ha'nuQ gets clipped and grins down at Donavon.

<CONTEST> Sharei contests his Unarmed Combat (Aikido) skill vs Caeli's Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill and Succeeds!

Albertz glances around the courtyard counting combatants. Randal and Donavon have already fought, Sharei and Caeli are in the ring now...that leaves...uhoh.

Caeli begins to try and avoid the strike, but that's the bad thing about wearing combat boots. Sure, they look tough, and they /are/ tough, but they're heavy, too. Subsequently, one ankle is clipped, Zip goes off balance, and drops to one knee, glowering as he sends another piston-fist towards Sharei's knee.

<CONTEST> Caeli contests his Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill vs Sharei's Unarmed Combat (Aikido) skill and Succeeds!

Ha'nuQ, on cue, looks down at Albertz and smiles, revealing broken and sharp teeth. "You look nervous, honky," he rumbles. "Afraid to face a brother...or a sister?"

The assembled warriors are watching the fight, and even as they do, their demeanor changes. They seem more...animated. One calls out, "Noooooo one can defeat Lord Dakusu!" Another retorts: "Caeli's super triple kick slays all foes!"

Sharei's feet go out from under him as Caeli lands a square blow on his knee. He scrambles back to his feet. "Hunh! You think you're great, huh? Try my Dancing Tornado Kagaki Fist!" And thus, he goes in for a rising uppercut.

<CONTEST> Sharei contests his Unarmed Combat (Aikido) skill vs Caeli's Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill and Fails!

. o O Churas thinks "Of course he is. I would eat him for breakfast and have room for seconds."

Donavon casts a fist in the air as Caeli lands another blow, but the comments nearby capture attention. "Hamish," a grin directed at Albertz, "teach those," a tossed wink at Ha'nuQ and Churas, "what it means to be fly. You can do it. Lucky is rooting for ya."

Caeli parries the blow at the wrist with the middle of his left forearm, smirking, "Maybe if you talked less and fought more you'd do a little better, eh, buddy?" That said, his right hand shoots out towards the talkative combatant's kidney. There's a lot they teach ya in the army.

<CONTEST> Caeli contests his Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill vs Sharei's Unarmed Combat (Aikido) skill and Succeeds!

Sharei staggers back, one hand clutching his back as he glares at Caeli with undisguised venom. "You will not be victorious! I will channel my ki and defeat you!" He inhales deeply, then does a leap kick for Caeli's head. "Rising Heaven Flying Dragon Kick!"

<CONTEST> Sharei contests his Unarmed Combat (Aikido) skill vs Caeli's Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill and Fails!

Randal watches the fight between Caeli and Sharei with a slightly bemused expression. This expression deepens whenever Caeli lands a hit on Sharei.

Long suddenly shouts, "Match!"

Albertz grins and shakes his head. "Of course not, my brotha. I need that bread to start up H&A Shortbread and Haggis Distributorium Limited. Have to keep your eyes on the prize!" At that Hamish kisses each of the rings on his fingers and strikes a fighting pose, fists clenched. Unh!

Caeli steps quickly aside, letting Sharei fly on by, and relaxing his stance as the match is called. No handshake. Nothing for the defeated opponent. The Bolian in Green just makes for the edge of the ring.

Sharei drops to his knees. "I... have failed," he whispers. Twin waterfalls begin to gush from his eyes. "NOOOO!" he cries to the heavens. The koto klonks twice. Klonk klonk.

Long nods. "Well-fought. Lord Dakusu, you are defeated, but may remain to enjoy the hospitality of my island." He turns to the group. "Churas. Mr. Albertz. You are next."

Caeli looks back with disdain on the sobbing Sharei. "Quit crying," he says gruffly, "and take it like a man." Footfalls are heavy as he moves to stand beside Donavon, greeting her and Ha'nuQ both with a small nod of recognition.

Ha'nuQ nods to Caeli, and looks down to Albertz. "I hear you, mister. Damn. That Caeli...he's one bad motha--"

The Irish Rose offers the Scotsman a well placed smack to his cheeks. "There. Luck be with you, brotha. Focus on this...she may hates bagpipes." Truth or not, that can fuel any fire in Hamish. Donavon steps back and grins at Caeli. "Slick Zip. Very slick."

"Shut your mouth!" Churas snaps, cracking her knuckles as she climbs into the ring.

Ha'nuQ shrugs at Churas, bewildered. "Just talkin' 'bout Caeli."

Caeli shakes his head slowly, intoning, "Nobody understands me but my woman."

Sharei sniffles as he makes his way away from the ring. "The cherry blossom of hope/Falls to be crushed/Beneath the great foot of time," he recites, wiping his eyes dry on the sleeve of his kimono.

Randal peers over at Sharei. "Can it, pajama pants. This is a fighting ring, not a long-hair hippy commune." He smirks wickedly.

Sharei scowls a bit at Randal. "Easy for you to say. You were the first defeated," he says curtly.

Albertz flushes ever so briefly, not so smooth after all. "I'm more worried tha' she hates haggis an' shortbread!" he grins at Meg before strutting his way to the ring, stopping to remove his boots before he enters. Bowing deeply towards Mr. Long and then Churas, Hamish adopts a relaxed stance, ready for combat. Oddly, he keeps his shades /on/.

Caeli nods in agreement with Randal. "Amen. You were the second, bub. God bless."

<PROVE> Albertz has the merit of Martial Artist at 2.

As the combatants step into the ring, Long says, "Begin!"

GAME: Churas spends a courage point.

"/You/ have a /woman?/" This from Churas as she settles herself into a loose mok'bara stance and waits for Albertz, rolling her head around on her neck. Her neck cracks several times as she does this, just as her wrists crack when she shakes out her hands. "Come on... /sweetheart./ What are you waiting for?" One corner of her mouth curls up in a cruelly feral grin, her teeth a pointy, sharp whiteness contrasted against her dark skin, and she flickers a hand toward the Scotsman, as if summoning him to her.

Sharei glances around. "What is wrong with having a man instead of a woman?" he asks curiously. Then, he turns back to focus on the battle.

Much like his moves outside of the ring, Albertz' actions are just as fluid inside except they are natural and uncontrived. "Was that a statement or an offer, baby? Here I thought you was a cold fish and the whole time you've been playing hard to get. Ahhh yeah." Hamish chuckles and moves quickly towards Churas, aiming a swift roundhouse kick at her midsection.

Ha'nuQ grins down to Donavon. "Looks like you might end up facing the baddest man to ever fight his way out of Harlem, sweetcheeks." Sharei accomplishes the seemingly impossible. Ha'nuQ actually breaks character long enough to shudder.

. o O Ha'nuQ is disgusted. Utterly.

<CONTEST> Albertz contests his Unarmed Combat (Aikido) skill vs Churas's Unarmed Combat (Mok'bara) skill and Fails!

Donavon blinks slowly at Sharei's comment and declines comment. Attentions are focused at the one who wears sunglasses at night. "You mean, I'll face against Zip the solid brotha?" she teases before wincing a wee bit. Looks like it'll take more than luck to defeat Churas.

"I /am/ hard to get," Churas replies rather blandly. "Ask my husband." She takes a step backward as the kick misses her and snaps her hands out in an attempt to grab Albertz's ankle and get a solid grip on it.

Randal glances toward Sharei for a moment, and then at peers Ha'nuQ's response to it. He smirks and returns his attention to the ring. "Guess we found something that Klingons might be afraid of," he quips.

Caeli nods stoically. "This broad knows her stuff." he declares to the much taller Klingon, arms folded across his vested chest.

Sharei blinks, looking at Randal, a mixture of shock and fright on his face. But he schools it quickly, returning his attention to the fight.

. o O Sharei suddenly feels incredibly sad and afraid.

Ha'nuQ grins to Donavon. "That boy? Caeli? The flag-wearing one? Not quite, baby." And Randal gets a rather derisive snort. "Do you turn down a food you dislike because of fear? Consider my reaction to Lord Dakusu's preferences to be the same."

Long, ever perceptive, looks from Caeli to Ha'nuQ, and then back again, and nods to himself once more.

<CONTEST> Churas contests her Unarmed Combat (Mok'bara) skill vs Albertz's Unarmed Combat (Aikido) skill and Succeeds!

Randal looks over at Ha'nuQ, amused. "I don't quake at the idea of food I don't like, that's for sure. But, I don't suppose your... dislikes are really any of my business." And again, his attention returns to the fight at hand.

Caeli quirks a blond eyebrow tot he Klingon. Wow, that looks weird against the blue. Not as wierd as Ha'nuQ's hair, though. "I'm no boy, Puffy."

"Boy? Never under estimate that one. They don't call him Zip the Super Freak for nothing." Donavon slides her arms across her chest in resting.

GAME: Albertz spends a courage point.

. o O Randal thinks "How ironic. And I was called a prejudiced by a Klingon just the other day..."

Ha'nuQ looks over to Caeli, and grins. "You'll get your chance to prove that, little army man." Somewhere, the spirits of Black Panthers cheer their futuristic brother.

Albertz grits his teeth as his kick is stopped cold, at least it didn't hurt terribly. Leg stuck as it is in the Klingon's vise like grip, there seem to be only two options and one of them involves Hamish getting tossed from the ring. Goodbye distributorium! Choosing the alternate, Hamish goes to use Churas' grip to get under her guard and aim a sweeping kick with his free leg directly at the side of her head. Might as well go out in style.

<CONTEST> Albertz (claiming advantage) contests his Unarmed Combat (Aikido) skill vs Churas's Unarmed Combat (Mok'bara) skill and Fails!

GAME: Churas spends a courage point.

Churas ducks her head to the side and snarls at the scotsman. The massive female, still holding his leg in a strong grip, spins around twice, attempting to lift him and get enough momentum to fling Albertz bodily from the ring. All the while, still, she grins that same feral grin.

<CONTEST> Churas (claiming advantage) contests her Fitness (Strength) skill vs a difficulty of Challenging and Succeeds!

Uhoh big time. The position Albertz is in bodes ill favor towards him. Donavon licks her dry lips in moistening them before expelling a low whistle. "That's one way to be fly."

Ha'nuQ cranes his head to follow Albertz' flight. "Ah. A Flying Scotsman." A pause. "Wasn't that a ghost ship?"

Caeli remains stoic. What a surprise. A glance is shot sidelong to Donavon as he quips, "Amateur."

Donavon bites her tongue, then laughs aloud. "Everyone is an amateur to you Zip babes until one defeats you."

Albertz flies through the air with the greatest of ease, landing with a very uncool thud in front of a group of Mr. Long's warriors. "Tha's one way tae go about it, I guess." He gets up slowly, dusting off his duds.

Randal says, adopting something of an accent, "I dinnae think he coulda taken much more o' that, anyway." He grins slightly.

Long says, "Match!" even as his assembled warrior burst out in laughter. When it subsides, he nods to Churas. "You are victorious. Mr. Albertz, you are free to enjoy my hospitality for the duration of your stay." His serene Asian eyes turn on Caeli and Ha'nuQ. "Mr. Caeli. Mr. Ha'nuQ. You are next."

Ha'nuQ rumbles, "Right -on-." He strides into the circle, clenching his hands into mighty fists. His knuckles crack as he does.

Churas raises a hand to pat at her brow. Nope. Didn't even break a sweat. Turning around and offering a thin smile to Albertz, she notes, "There is no dishonor in losing to a superior opponent." Pause. "Honey." She moves out of the ring, then, and finds herself a foo lion to lean against.

Caeli runs his fingers through his... hair... and slips into the ring, taking the same defensive posture again. "Careful, Puffy. Wouldn't want to get my hand caught in that mop."

Ha'nuQ drops into, surprisingly, a different pose than most here have seen. A wing chung stance. Crouched low, one hand raised out behind him, the other forward. He points the fingertips of the forward-extending hand at Caeli, and then turns it over so it's facing palm up....and then he motions Caeli forward with his fingertips just as Long announces, "Begin!"

<PROVE> Ha'nuQ has the merit of Martial Artist at 2.

GAME: Caeli spends a courage point.

Eyes dance in clear amusement at Churas' quip. How poignent given the circumstances. Donavon places weight to one side, a swagger in the stance. "Zip baby, show Puff Daddy it takes more than a powerful fro to defeat you."

Caeli sort of stands there, calmly, for a few long moments, before stepping forward quickly and dropping to one knee, using his left hand to help drive his right elbow down at the beckoning hand.

<CONTEST> Caeli contests his Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill vs Ha'nuQ's Unarmed Combat (Kung Fu) skill and Fails!

Ha'nuQ simply twists his hand out of the way in a complicated, flowing movement. It seems so odd, seeing the massive Klingon moving so elegantly. And then, once the hand has danced it way completely to his chest, he steps forward with blinding speed lashing out with a palm strike and a 'Kiiiiyaaaaaaieee!' that would make Bruce Lee proud.

<CONTEST> Ha'nuQ contests his Unarmed Combat (Kung Fu) skill vs Caeli's Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill and Fails!

Caeli steps quickly to the right, turning the strike aside with his left arm, and fires outward with his right to mimic the Klingon's attack, going for his ribcage.

<CONTEST> Caeli contests his Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill vs Ha'nuQ's Unarmed Combat (Kung Fu) skill and Fails!

Ha'nuQ snaps both hands into an X across his chest, and lifts the X catching Caeli's wrist and deflecting it upwards. And then his foot snaps up and out, aimed at Caeli's gut.

<CONTEST> Ha'nuQ contests his Unarmed Combat (Kung Fu) skill vs Caeli's Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill and Succeeds!

Caeli takes the hit, exhaling forcefully as he is sent to the small of his back on the mat, one boot striking reflexively at Ha'nuQ's shin in retaliation.

<CONTEST> Caeli contests his Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill vs Ha'nuQ's Unarmed Combat (Kung Fu) skill and Fails!

Ha'nuQ steps aside from the kick, and dances backwards. He drops into that low wing chun stance again, once again beckoning Caeli forward. "Your kung fu is weak!" he sneers.

And everyone was kung fu fighting. Wah. And Ha'nuQ was fast as lightning. One truly has to admire his style and Donavon cannot help but to crack a short grin.

"I would imagine that is because it is not kung fu, cousin, but the Starfleet Martial Arts," Churas notes in a rumble, still leaning on one of the foo lions. Literalists.

Caeli glowers, righting himself, and says nothing before stepping in and down yet again and striking with the base of his palm for the crouching Klingon's chest.

<CONTEST> Caeli contests his Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill vs Ha'nuQ's Unarmed Combat (Kung Fu) skill and Fails!

Ha'nuQ jerks his entire torso sideways, twisting and bending his knees. Caeli's arm shoots in the air above his suddenly lowered chest, and Ha'nuQ snaps from the elbow into a backhand, aimed at Caeli's face. "Waaaaaaaaaah!" he cries, holding the backhand quivering in the air, whether it strikes or not.

<CONTEST> Ha'nuQ contests his Unarmed Combat (Kung Fu) skill vs Caeli's Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill and Fails!

Caeli meets the backhand with the follow-through from his first strike and continues the motion fluidly, while his other hand curls into a rigid half-fist and fires towards the Klingon's ribs, with a muttered, "Shut up." from the gruff Bolian.

<CONTEST> Caeli (claiming advantage) contests his Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill vs Ha'nuQ's Unarmed Combat (Kung Fu) skill and Succeeds!

Ha'nuQ stumbles backwards from his clumsy position, falling to the ground. He punches the ground, and rises, growling. "Oh ho! Bolian style, eh? Well, try my Fist of Dragon!" And then he advances on Caeli in quick, short steps, his fists lashing out in a flurry of blows aimed at Caeli's torso.

<CONTEST> Ha'nuQ contests his Unarmed Combat (Kung Fu) skill vs Caeli's Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill and Fails!

Bolian style? No. Matrix style. Each blow is met with one of Caeli's wrists, the sheer speed of the attacks and parries creating a blur of brown, black, and blue as both combatants focus on where the next fist will fly. Amid the dull thuds of flesh against flesh, Zipok ends the chain, with a palmstrike right over the flashing arms to the Klingon's chin.

<CONTEST> Caeli contests his Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill vs Ha'nuQ's Unarmed Combat (Kung Fu) skill and Fails!

Ha'nuQ jerks his head back, the palm flying past it. "Ha!" And then he drops his weight into the ground, and lashes out with a palm strike at Caeli's chest.

<CONTEST> Ha'nuQ contests his Unarmed Combat (Kung Fu) skill vs Caeli's Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill and Succeeds!

Two to one, the match is moving along nicely. Donavon studies their movements with a lopsided grin.

Caeli feels the strike against his vest, snarls, but stands firm against it, mentally acknowledging the blow but only giving an inch or two of ground. In response, one knee lifts and a bootheel is driven sharply towards Ha'nuQ's midsection, not a calculated blow but one of sheer force.

<CONTEST> Caeli contests his Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill vs Ha'nuQ's Unarmed Combat (Kung Fu) skill and Fails!

Ha'nuQ answers force with force. Kung fu or not, he is still Ha'nuQ. His other hand lashes downward, simply halting Caeli's blow in flight. And then he spins around in place, lashing out with a backhand to Caeli's head at the last moment, crying out, "Hiiiiiiyaaaaaaaiieeeee!"

<CONTEST> Ha'nuQ contests his Unarmed Combat (Kung Fu) skill vs Caeli's Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill and Succeeds!

And then the false hair goes flying, leaving the Bolian standing there, bald and beaten. Staying in character, though, he narrows his eyes and almost stomps off to the edge of the ring, slipping out with hair in hand.

Long says, "Match!" He looks over to the group. "Megan Donavon...you will face Churas."

Sharei leans forward a bit. "This should be interesting."

Ha'nuQ stomps off the mat, saying to Donavon as he passes, "What did I tell you, woman? You see them moves? I learned those from Shaolin monks! Sho' nuff!"

Randal folds his arms as he quietly waits for the next match to start.

May the Luck of the Irish be with her when facing against a Klingon. The record thus far is one broken jaw against a few bruises. However, remaining entirely in character, the golden female barks a short laugh at Ha'nuQ when they pass another. "Watch what Lochmond Lads taught me to brawl, sugar." Could that be a shimmy of her backside as she walks over to take her place on the mat? Possibly not and more of a natural sway for her attentions are in the removal of her jacket which is tossed aside. This match will cause a break in sweating.

Ha'nuQ gets to the side of ring, and preens his 'fro as he watches the match start.

Caeli gets to the other side of the ring, and readjusts his hair on his head as he, too, watches the match begin.

Churas leaning away from the lion on which she's been leaned -- perhaps getting in touch with her totemic self, or some such nonsense as believed by other races -- and steps back into the ring, calm and confident. She gives Long a nod of acknowledgement and stretches out her arms again. The female Klingon is not as sneer-filled this time around, and falls into her mok'bara stance more fluidly than one might expect from someone her size. That sort of thing runs in the family, it would seem.

<PROVE> Donavon has the merit of Martial Artist at 2.

"Honey or is it sugar pie?" teases Donavon knowing full well it may boil Churas. Her chances against this one is on the defensive side for on the offensive, the openings are limited. On a short prowl paces are lead around the female Klingon as each aims to become second in the tournament. "Care to face a real challenge?" Force is applied to her tone in hopes it sounded arrogant for truth be told, the odds are way against her.

Dovoro goes home.

Dovoro has left.

A long moment of stretching occurs as Churas is paced around by Donavon. One might think she's flexing those massive biceps on purpose as she raises her arms and stretches them out slowly before dropping her arms to her sides and shaking them out. Knuckles are cracked one by one, and the corner of her mouth curls up slowly again as she's taunted by the smaller female. "Certainly. Do you know where I might find one? If you do, send them in. I would like to break a sweat this time." She rolls her shoulders, shifting the heavy musculature there as well and then dropping back into her stance, growling low in her throat like a predator who's just spotted something small and defenseless. Her gaze, too, locks in on Donavon, catching her eyes if she can, and that growl turns into a snarl of challenge.

GAME: Donavon spends a courage point.

<CONTEST> Churas contests her Intimidation (Bluster) skill vs Donavon's Presence (Willpower) skill (given advantage) and Succeeds!

Ha'nuQ looks over to Albertz, and rumbles just one word at Churas' growling: "Catfight."

Albertz hisses and spits and mimes a scratching claw.

Splendidly done. Now the Lucky Lass has become an Irish rabbit fit for this Klingon's stew. However, Donavon maintains her ground for all appearances but Churas being closes can tell the difference or in fact smell the slight fear rising. A twinkle strikes the eyes and teeth gleam in a smile-a challenge. She always was one to egg on the competition despite being the smaller and the mostly likely to fail. "Oh, you'll break it one way or another, sugar bear." Crouched to the standard Starfleet Martial Arts pose, she shuffles forward before directing a snap of both fists towards the Klingon.

<CONTEST> Donavon contests her Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill vs Churas's Mor'bara skill and Succeeds!

<CONTEST> Donavon contests her Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill vs Churas's Unarmed Combat (Mok'bara) skill and Succeeds!

The strike backs Churas up a step or two, but she can smell the fear on Donavon, and her feral smile only widens as she steps back in, reversing her motion to attempt a grab on the smaller female. Well, if she's a bear, a bear hug isn't out of line, now is it?

<CONTEST> Churas contests her Unarmed Combat (Mok'bara) skill vs Donavon's Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill and Succeeds!

Words to live by, never ever get too close to a grizzly bear when angered. Donavon slightly forgets such a lesson as both of Churas' arms have managed squeeze around her. Wits frazzled a tad by this one's growls, the golden one does attempt to recall the movements or steps to untangle oneself from a 6'6" opponent. Hands spear under the arms and shove upward to force pressure to the inside of Churas' forearms while taking a step backwards.

<CONTEST> Donavon contests her Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill vs Churas's Unarmed Combat (Mok'bara) skill and Fails!

Churas tightens her arms around Donavon, attempting to carry the struggling smaller female toward the edge of the ring. The safeties, of course, won't let her actually /crush the breath/ out of Meg, but it's pretty clear that she's trying her damndest. Submission hold, Klingon-style.

<PROVE> Donavon has the merit of High Pain Threshold at 2.

<CONTEST> Churas contests her Fitness (Strength) skill vs Donavon's Fitness (Vitality) skill and Succeeds!

Randal makes a sarcastic little noise. "Aw. Can't you win a match through face-to-face combat?" He shouts his jibe at Churas from the side of the ring. "When did this become a sumo contest?"

Caeli lets one boot-toe drift up and leans forward on the raised knee in what has become his viewing posture of choice.

Ha'nuQ folds his arms across his chest, watching, his brow slowly furrowing. It looks vaguely ridiculous...him frowning in his silly outfit, with that hair. But he doesn't look pleased.

Not the first time that her bones have collided and brushed against another. Donavon grits teeth, but is steeled to keep that mischievous smirk upon her face. Breath is definitely strained which plays in succession to the wild techno rhythmic beat of her heart. Clearly there is no way to slip out of these arms so why not try down below? Foot prepped, she tries to clip Churas' leg, perhaps above the knee.

<CONTEST> Donavon (claiming disadvantage) contests her Unarmed Combat (Starfleet Martial Arts) skill vs Churas's Unarmed Combat (Mok'bara) skill and Fails!

It's a good idea, and it'd've been damn annoying to Churas had it landed. Unfortunately the way Donavon's held has her at a bit of a disadvantage, and since she can't see to aim, the kick misses. The bigger female goes for her second 'Fleeter-toss of the night, relying on her raw strength to power this dead-throw of a living opponent.

<CONTEST> Churas (claiming advantage) contests her Fitness (Strength) skill vs a difficulty of Challenging and Succeeds!

Ha'nuQ closes his eyes as Churas throws Donavon.

Caeli removes his boot from the side of the ring and starts walking leisurely towards where he predicts Donavon will land.

Would it be uncouth of her to jab those beady eyes with her fingertips? Donavon stares upward in debate, but as eyes lower an idea is sparked. A notable stubborn lass claimed to have a hard head, why not use it? Head leaned back she begins to execute one solid smack of her forehead towards the chest of Churas but is interrupted when breath is regained which isn't a fortunate thing at present. Through the air is she thrown, flung far outside the ringside mat and slapping hard face first against pavement. Hard enough that her body and bones emit an audible crack and snap. Golden dreams are now discovered for this one as she blacks out for a moment.

Would it be uncouth of her to jab those beady eyes with her fingertips? Donavon stares upward in debate, but as eyes lower an idea is sparked. A notable stubborn lass claimed to have a hard head, why not use it? Head leaned back she begins to execute one solid smack of her forehead towards the chest of Churas but is interrupted when breath is regained which isn't a fortunate thing at present. Through the air is she thrown, flung far outside the ringside mat and slapping face first against pavement. Her body aches when certain limbs have collided with another. Thankfully with the brilliance of holoprogramers there are no true injuries save the bruises from the hard pressed bear hug.

As Donavon hits the ground, Long calls, "Match!" The warriors nods and applaud their approval. He steps forward. "You are all everything we could have hoped for. Now, you shall be escorted to your rooms, where you may clean up. We will have dinner. And tomorrow..." He looks to Churas and Ha'nuQ. "Churas and Mr. Ha'nuQ will have the final battle."

And then a female computer voice says, "End Chapter 1, 'Fists of Mayhem.'" And the holodeck freezes.