Post by Xavier Cross on Jul 2, 2017 0:35:48 GMT
Morning came earlier than usual, or so it seemed. Pushing open the drapes of the window. Cross stood, a soft yawn escaping his lips as he barely opened one eye as the shine of the sun hit him in the face. The taste of sleep and booze lingered on his tongue, as he smacked his lips together in a disgusting response. Stretching his arms, he turned around to a beautiful woman, her skin kissed by the sun, holding up a golden chalice to his delight.
Servant Girl: "My king..."
Xavier Cross: "You read my mind girl..."
Softly patting her on the head, Cross takes the chalice as he walks over to his dressing room, rubbing the sleep out of his eyes he takes a drink from the chalice, a smirk playing on his lips now. The girl knew what he wanted, a red wine to start the day off. Shaking his head for a moment, he gathered his clothes for the day. Something simple, he wasn't one to flaunt with clothes.
Today was the first step in his goals to take back his kingdom. He was to meet with a newly founded coalition of mercenaries. Old soldiers who knew nothing but war, young kids looking for glory and gold on the battlefield. The perfect group for a garrison force. The unfortunate dealings with Mercenaries though are the motivation. They'll swing their sword at any man's throat for the right price. However, given the right cause, you can turn even a simple sellsword into a loyal soldier. His goal today was simple, buy their swords for gold, and earn their loyalty through battle. Which simply meant making an enemy of one of the small neighboring lords.
However, the choice was tough. The closest lord, was a battle-tested elder man, who had become a drunkard in his late age. His soldiers were some of the most skilled, but they were small in number. More so, his common folk are forced to starved. The military was everything, if you weren't a soldier, you were a slave. Not that slavery was frowned upon, Lord Bordo wasn't a leader to be taken lightly, however, he had garnered no favors in the Bank, which made him one of the few outsiders of this land. Strong enough to stay off challengers, however, Xavier Cross was a newcomer to this game. He wouldn't be afraid of an old soldier pretending to be a King.
However, that was neither here, nor there. It was time to attend a council meeting, and Cross finished dressing. Lifting up his sword, he admired it for a moment before strapping it to his side.
Xavier Cross: "Simply put, as soon as we meet with the Mercenary Guild, we will begin marching on his lands. The bank will back us as a liberation of a dictator. We will be hailed as heroes. From there, we can recruit a strong vanguard with his former bannermen. We offer them the same lifestyle, and a new land to conquer. However, we do run the risk...."
His council all eye him, a little impressed a Lord as young as he, would be able to decide on such a strategy.
Xavier Cross: "We outnumber them, but our skills aren't as refined as theirs. I'd say our numbers lead us to a six to one advantage, but their skill...I'd say leaves us at three to one...Then we would be attacking their grounds..."
Cross leans back in his chair, he moves his wrist a bit to swish the wine in his chalice. Before he sits up straight, inspiration striking him like lightning.
Xavier Cross: "Bordo is an old soldier, he will cling to that glory until the day he dies...By the god's blessing, that day will come soon. Gather a small group of our soldiers, and march them onto his lands with a clear message. I want everything he has. We will seal the deal with the Mercenary Guild, to flush our numbers...But I will meet him, and challenge him to one on one combat, I think...I know I can force his hand by playing his ego."
A few murmurs as the room grows quiet, as the eldest man speaks up. His voice is soft but had a hint of wisdom behind it.
Master Clyde: "My King, do you believe it is wise to meet him in combat, he may be old, but he is still feared in these lands."
Xavier Cross: "You forget, I am not from these lands, nor is there any mortal alive or dead that I fear."
Master Clyde: "What makes you so sure you can best him in combat?"
The tension in the room rushed in like a crashing wave. Cross eyed Clyde for a moment, before nodding his head.
Xavier Cross: "Because I have to. He'll enter the battlefield bragging about military might. I will counter with having the greatest soldiers to ever grace these lands. This will inspire arrogance. From there, I will gain favor with the mercenaries, as well as inspire my troops. If he refuses, his moral and leadership will be weakened. His soldiers will second guess a man not willing to risk his life for them. However, by doing so, I will accomplish our goals in one motion. I will buy our Mercenaries, win their favor, and kill Bordo and take his lands...Too simple right?"
Master Clyde: "You're thinking too far ahead, you've never met this man before..."
Xavier Cross: "But I've met men like him before, his pride will be his downfall, and I will twist his little ego until his entirety crumbles beneath him."
Master Clyde: "You're an interesting young man my Lord...I look forward to seeing how you play this game going forward."
A knock interrupts the meeting, as the door slowly slides open. The servant girl from Cross's room stands there, before bowing.
Servant Girl: "My Lords... the Guild awaits your presence."
Cross rises first, clapping his hands together.
Xavier Cross: "Gentlemen...let's go to work..."
Xavier Cross: "You eat with your men, not many Lords would do that."
A short, red-haired man, thin in stature, two daggers clipped to either hip eyes cross for a moment. Before laughing into his wine. His voice was soft, and his green eyes shined strangely. Raising a brow.
Elligosa: "Interesting, you walk into a room for a few moments, before declaring me the leader? What makes you so sure of yourself."
Cross nods his head, picking up a pitcher of wine, filling a glass for himself. The council looks a bit surprised, as he waves them away to go sit at the head seats.
Xavier Cross: "Simple, when the doors opened, and we entered the room. Glances kept being made down here. I was informed the Guild had four leaders, and here I see four sitting slightly away from the group, but not to far to make it awkward. It was subtle, but enough for me to make an educated guess..."
A barking laugh is heard across the table, a gruff, jet black haired man brushes the hair out of his face, looking at Xavier Cross.
Nendra: "So the King isn't as short sighted as we've heard...Interesting...So you picked us out of the group, you prepared us a meal, and I'm assuming your next trick is to pull out a dick of gold and see if we could suck it dry for you?"
Xavier Cross: "A dick of gold is simply flashy, only a fleshy hard cock can get the job done."
Elligosa nearly spits his wine out, as Nendra begins laughing once more.
Nendra: "A foul mouth lord, well my friend, here's to a joyful feast."
Raising his glass, the Guild leaders and Cross clank their glasses together, as Cross rests his shoulder on the table. As he glances at Elligosa, who blushes a moment before straightening up. Turning his attention to Nendra.
Nendra: "So how does a foul mouth like you become a lord?"
Xavier Cross: "Well, a long time ago I was just a damn good soldier in the fields of battle. I worked my way up, saved a few of the right people. Won land for the right people...Eventually, I was given fealty, and my own lands. But that wasn't enough....Eventually, I realized corrupt in the crown, and decided to rise up."
Nendra: "Corruption? What Lord isn't corrupt? What Lord doesn't have slaves? Doesn't break the common man for an extra gold?"
Xavier Cross: "Well then, brace yourselves for a rare sight. I am the kind of Lord who won't break a common man for an extra gold. Every servant who has worked in my house is paid fairly for the work, every man and woman to stand under my banner are free. When the day ends, if I make ten gold, I don't see the need to break someone to earn eleven. Simply put, am I happy with what I have...."
Elligosa: "So then why are you going to hire us?"
Xavier Cross: "Because I'm not happy with the state of the world, and the Mercenary Guild is my first step in changing the world."
Nendra: "Ah? You're a person with a grand world view, want to change it all in what your great ideal is? How many lives will spill blood in order for that to come true? Most look around this room and see us as expendable. Your council did as they looked down at us."
Xavier Cross: "If the dream is worth it, every life is expendable. Including my own, it's my dream so especially my own. Blood spilled will never be in vain."
Elligosa: "Mighty talk, coming from you...."
Cross raises a brow, looking at Elligosa, who's mood had changed as he had spoken on his dreams and goals. An older man finally raised his voice, sitting next to Elligosa. Eyeing Xavier for a moment as he spoke.
Tenzin: "You lost your last war...These two youngsters don't know why...But I've heard... Your forces were outnumbered, you led them into battle anyway. You met their commander on the field and challenged him to battle. When he agreed, you decided on a time to meet, and it ended in an ambush. However, there were rumors that you had pushed the tide back, and could have at least pushed them into a siege...Why did you retreat?"
Taking a long drink from his chalice, Cross doesn't answer right away. He can feel every eye in the room on him, and every ear listening to the conversation, from the most basic mercenary, the seats on his council. Setting his glass down, he lets out a deep sigh.
Xavier Cross: "Because I lost a lot of good men to push them back. To counter an ambush is damn near impossible if I were to keep pushing I'd lose even more. Siege tactics, they're tricky. I signed my defeat when I didn't push my men. I didn't want to throw away any more lives..."
Elligosa; "So you gave up on your dream?"
Xavier Cross: "Retreating is different than admitting defeat. It took a lot to gain exile instead of death. By surrendering in the end, I was able to spare many men from death, many lords betrayed me to gain the favor of the crown. But it's fine, I still have those who are loyal, and when I return...will rise back to the cause. A tactical retreat."
Tenzin: "Interesting...so what are your plans with us?"
Xavier smiles a bit, as he leans in and begins talking business.
The sound of horses galloping echoed through the valley. Cross was in the lead, his cloak flying over his shoulder as they rode forward. Behind him were the four guild leaders, and his four army commanders, one of which was part of the Council, Dana Hunero, he was the commander of Cross's military, he had worked a long time ago with Tenzin, the eldest leader of the Mercenary Council. It helped with relations.
The area was rocky, you could smell the smoldering in the hills from the forges. Bordo's land, was known for being rich in minerals, a mining town turned into a small kingdom. They had some of the best steel in the world, some say it was imbued with the power of the Goddesses. Cross wasn't one for superstition, however, he knew the resources he would receive from these lands was too great to pass up.
Xavier Cross: "Have your archers set up at the edge of the woods, this man is honorable, but I want us to be prepared for everything."
Nendra: "Aye M'lord. Are you sure you want to face him, we have many skilled men in our ranks, I'd love to show off my blades."
Cross smiles as he turns to Nendra.
Xavier Cross: "Your blades will serve me well at a better time Nendra, for now, I just ask you all protect my back while I meet Bordo in battle."
Nendra was a bit taken back with the humbleness Cross displayed. Hearing a horn off in the distance, Cross's relaxed expression snapped into a steel calmness. Hopping from his horse, Cross took a few steps to the neutral ground. His captains and mercenaries behind him watching carefully.
Bordo pulled the reigns on his horse, as his eyes moved under his steel helm, watching Cross carefully. Before hopping down from his own horse. The two men took a few steps towards one another before Bordo removed his helm.
Lord Bordo: "My challenge is a boy?"
His deep voice chuckles.
Lord Bordo: "The Traitor of the West....Xavier Cross. The Arrogant Eagle..."
Cross snarled a bit but shook off the anger boiling in his stomach.
Xavier Cross: "Bordo....Rhino of the East...your time as a failed leader is over. I have come to take your lands, your people, but more so...your life..."
Lord Bordo: "You think a sniveling little brat, with his toy soldiers, can defeat Lord Bordo and his warriors?"
He begins laughing once more.
Xavier Cross: "I don't put value in war any longer, there isn't a point in wasting good lives on you...I came to challenge you to a duel. I'd prefer your forces in tack when I take your lands. They'll make an excellent vanguard force..."
Lord Bordos spits on the ground as he steps to Xavier, who doesn't move.
Lord Bordos: "You come to my lands, you shit on my honor...you dare disrespect me in front of my men..."
His voice turns into a growl as he begins to remove a dagger from his side. Cross's eyes light up, their brown turning into a red. As he sidesteps the attack, sending a hard backhand with his gauntlet to the back of Bordo's head, who staggers forward a bit. Blood running down his neck. Bordo shakes his head, smiling as he motions to his men to throw him his weapon. A large battle ax, which splits part of the ground in two when the soldier's throw it to him. Cross studies this for a moment before leaping back to his horse.
Reaching up Cross pulls his hand and a half sword from the sheath attached to the side of his saddle. Charging forward, Bordo has grabbed his ax. Even in his old age, still lifts it with ease, swinging it wildly, Cross ducks down to avoid being split in two. Cross aims a slash of his own, but the clanking of metal is heard as Bordo's blocks with the handle of his ax.
Cross looks up, seeing the confident eyes of Bordo. He slides to the left, getting out of range for a moment. Both men pause a moment, studying each other's movements.
Lord Bordos: "Your eyes boy....I've seen them before..."
Xavier Cross: "Save your words for your last breath..."
Bordos charges forward, ax held on his shoulder. Leaping into the air, he goes it down, looking to split Cross in half. Cross leaps forward, rolling out of the way. Planting a foot in the ground, he spins his hips. Sword outstretched he hears the metal clanging once more. Bordo used the entire head of the ax as a shield.
Feeling the strength behind the ax, Cross spun once more using his speed to his advantage he managed to land a blow on the back of Bordo's heel, seeing the armor split, and a small bit of blood spill out. Bordos turns planting his feet he swings down once more with the ax. Cross isn't able to dodge in time, so he tries to block, bringing his sword up. The ax slams down across the sword, small pieces of metal fly, as do sparks as they collide.
Cross drove his knee into the ground, looking up at Bordo who had bloodlust in his eyes. Cross winced a bit, feeling the overwhelming pressure of Bordo's strength. It was over in this moment, the dream was going to die. Cross closed his eyes, trying to muster his strength up. His mind started to wander to visions of the past. Everything he had sacrificed for this, it was all going to end here. Until a voice rang out from his side of the crowd.
Elligosa: "Don't you dare give up! Don't you dare die and lie about those dreams you spoke with such bravado!"
His eyes snapped back open, as the Brown was gone, replaced with a deep red. Stepping up, he felt the blade shake in his hand, until it snapped. Seeing things happen, it felt like slow motion. The ax was bearing down, but all he could do was move forward. Feeling the metal pole of the ax hit his shoulder. Cross's shoulder snapped loudly, but it was quickly replaced by a scream. Cross plunged the broken sword into the open plate side of Bordo. Blood shot out like a rain storm, showering his entire right side as he stumbled back, dropping the ax. Cross hit his knee, clutching his shoulder, the broken blade falling to his side. Looking up, Xavier groans the surge of pain from his broken shoulder running through him.
Xavier Cross: "Bordos...if you don't receive medical attention now...you'll die..."
He grunts as he stands up, his left arm falling limb at his side. Cross stumbles forward, grunting through the pain as he kneels down picking up Bordos's battle ax. It was heavier than Cross imagined.
Xavier Cross: "If you bend your knee, and swear your loyalty to me. I will let you live...live for me...for my dreams...you never made a good Lord, but you'll make a fine commander of my Vanguard...."
Bordos grunts a bit, sitting up, clutching his side. Cross lifts the ax up, throwing it over his only good shoulder. Looking at Bordos. The two men stare each other down.
Lord Bordos: "You claimed to take my life when you came here, but yet you offer me this?"
Xavier Cross: "You were meant for things that don't involve sitting at a table making decisions for people, you are a warrior, nothing more or less. If you serve me, I will find you glory beyond your wildest dreams...If this battle had taken place before you became a lazy faux King, you would have crushed me with that blow...."
Lord Bordos laughs a bit, as he coughs up a bit of blood.
Lord Bordos: "You truly are something different...I accept your offer...these lands are yours..."
With the declaration of surrender, the soldiers of Xavier Cross rose with loud cheers. Cross hands the ax to one of Bordo's soldiers, as he kneels down helping Bordo's to his feet.
Xavier Cross: "We must hurry, you can't lose more blood."
Bordos looks a bit more shocked, at Xavier helping him up.
Bordos: "You are...extremely different than I imagined...helping an enemy to his feet..."
Xavier Cross: "The moment you surrendered, you stopped becoming an enemy, and became a valuable ally...Now let's get you some help..."
Soldiers ran to the scene, helping Bordos into a carriage, as he is attended to by healers. Cross looks back as Emmigosa is at his side.
Xavier Cross: "Thanks for that?"
Emmigosa blushes once more, as Cross looks at the carriage pulling away Bordos. He lets out a sigh.
Emmigosa: "Are you okay M'lord?"
Cross chuckles a bit, glancing at his limp arm.
Xavier Cross: "I won't be doing much dueling in the future, but...this is a huge victory...More so...I owe it to you Emmigosa...your words awoke me..."
Emmigosa: "My words? You closed your eyes, were admitting defeat...."
Xavier Cross: "I forgot what battle felt like, fighting him awoke something in me...but he has an overwhelming pressure....I've never felt that before..."
Emmigosa: "This land is full of strange warriors, with various skills....this isn't the Kingdom you're used to..."
Xavier Cross: "So do you believe in my dream?"
Emmigosa: "I believe in you..."
Cross smiles a bit, as he stumbles a bit, growing dizzy. Emmigosa catches him, to keep him stable.
Xavier Cross: "Looks like I overdid it a bit...let's go check out our new winnings...with the mines, we can get plenty of that rare steel and get our soldiers better arms...but first....we have to liberate the people...show them that they are equal in worth to anyone..."
Emmigosa: "Is that what you truly believe?"
Xavier Cross: "Everyone who draws breath, and lives their life, is entitled to the ability to live. Strength isn't just being strong, if you're so strong...you have a duty, no...a destiny to protect the weak...to perserve their way of life..."
Cross sighs a bit, as Emmigosa just looked shocked at his words, helping him onto his horse. Emmigosa shakes her head.
Emmigosa: "You are an idiot..."
Xavier Cross: "An idiot.......?"
Emmigosa: "Excuse me, an idiot...m'lord..."
Xavier Cross: "Much better..."
Servant Girl: "My king..."
Xavier Cross: "You read my mind girl..."
Softly patting her on the head, Cross takes the chalice as he walks over to his dressing room, rubbing the sleep out of his eyes he takes a drink from the chalice, a smirk playing on his lips now. The girl knew what he wanted, a red wine to start the day off. Shaking his head for a moment, he gathered his clothes for the day. Something simple, he wasn't one to flaunt with clothes.
Today was the first step in his goals to take back his kingdom. He was to meet with a newly founded coalition of mercenaries. Old soldiers who knew nothing but war, young kids looking for glory and gold on the battlefield. The perfect group for a garrison force. The unfortunate dealings with Mercenaries though are the motivation. They'll swing their sword at any man's throat for the right price. However, given the right cause, you can turn even a simple sellsword into a loyal soldier. His goal today was simple, buy their swords for gold, and earn their loyalty through battle. Which simply meant making an enemy of one of the small neighboring lords.
However, the choice was tough. The closest lord, was a battle-tested elder man, who had become a drunkard in his late age. His soldiers were some of the most skilled, but they were small in number. More so, his common folk are forced to starved. The military was everything, if you weren't a soldier, you were a slave. Not that slavery was frowned upon, Lord Bordo wasn't a leader to be taken lightly, however, he had garnered no favors in the Bank, which made him one of the few outsiders of this land. Strong enough to stay off challengers, however, Xavier Cross was a newcomer to this game. He wouldn't be afraid of an old soldier pretending to be a King.
However, that was neither here, nor there. It was time to attend a council meeting, and Cross finished dressing. Lifting up his sword, he admired it for a moment before strapping it to his side.
********
I warned the world, I gave you every chance to retreat, to hide, to say goodbye and what have you done. You keep spitting on these chances, but soon, The Council will grow merciless. My elder brother Kole, he hungers for fresh meat. I am convinced his soul is as old as the day is long, an ancient predator's who's thirst cannot be quenched by war. You see, when the King of Chaos is in your corner, what do you have to fear.
Kole Kaos is the answer to your prayers my fallen few, those who recognized the greatness of the council understand that this match up, is nothing....nothing more than the booking committee throwing obstacles in our path. Ironic, isn't it?
Roberto Verona wants to talk now does he... or just another ego masturbation session...But he doesn't have a match now, does he? No...no he just wants to talk. He isn't booked, funny right?
Then, of course, my lovely Cable Arcane, a former everything, and a current nobody. He has openly expressed interest in calling out The Council, but yet....I look up and down at the card, and where is he? No, where to be found....but of course, he was the exclamation point on the sentence where the Council was born.
The God of Xtreme....where are you, Spike my boy, where are you? Because like every other pathetic member of this power trip, you're not on that card either. I think you're starting to see where I'm going with this now ladies and gentlemen....
Mike Laszlo.......well, let's be honest...it's kind of a blessing we don't have to watch such atrocity claimed to be wrestling in action. But still, WHERE ARE THEY?
Jake Conway, a title shot and gone.
That sweet fighting hope, Andrew Jacobsen is here, he's still going, that sweet sweet boy. GO ANDREW GO!
But where are the so-called Mount Rushmore? Where are these Hall of Famers and former champions? THEY TAKE THE EASY WAY OUT!
Shot after shot after shot after chance after main event chance. There they are, and I will give credit where it is due, at one point these men were great....but now, it's all about the pen....cashing checks, and turning the tide in your favor. But this world, this world is crumbling down.
WHAT HAVE YOU DONE FOR ANY OF US LATELY?!
The simple fact is THE COUNCIL is going to save Imperial Wrestling Federation, by cutting out this ego trip. Simply put, we are the greatest thing that has ever happened to this company, because we are willing to put in the work, we will show up week in and week out.
NO DAYS OFF.
How many times have any of you pathetic competitors ever crashed a website, the day after The Council debuted, the Imperial Wrestling Site was down for hours, unable to handle the traffic.
The fans are realizing this tide is turning, and boy I cannot wait to hold the heads under water, until that last bubble pops....I want to feel your soul leave your fucking body.....
********
Cross sits at the end of the council table, his eyes fixed on the map for a brief moment. Looking up, his eyes have a splash of determination. Leaning forward, he eyes Bordo's lands for a moment.
Xavier Cross: "Simply put, as soon as we meet with the Mercenary Guild, we will begin marching on his lands. The bank will back us as a liberation of a dictator. We will be hailed as heroes. From there, we can recruit a strong vanguard with his former bannermen. We offer them the same lifestyle, and a new land to conquer. However, we do run the risk...."
His council all eye him, a little impressed a Lord as young as he, would be able to decide on such a strategy.
Xavier Cross: "We outnumber them, but our skills aren't as refined as theirs. I'd say our numbers lead us to a six to one advantage, but their skill...I'd say leaves us at three to one...Then we would be attacking their grounds..."
Cross leans back in his chair, he moves his wrist a bit to swish the wine in his chalice. Before he sits up straight, inspiration striking him like lightning.
Xavier Cross: "Bordo is an old soldier, he will cling to that glory until the day he dies...By the god's blessing, that day will come soon. Gather a small group of our soldiers, and march them onto his lands with a clear message. I want everything he has. We will seal the deal with the Mercenary Guild, to flush our numbers...But I will meet him, and challenge him to one on one combat, I think...I know I can force his hand by playing his ego."
A few murmurs as the room grows quiet, as the eldest man speaks up. His voice is soft but had a hint of wisdom behind it.
Master Clyde: "My King, do you believe it is wise to meet him in combat, he may be old, but he is still feared in these lands."
Xavier Cross: "You forget, I am not from these lands, nor is there any mortal alive or dead that I fear."
Master Clyde: "What makes you so sure you can best him in combat?"
The tension in the room rushed in like a crashing wave. Cross eyed Clyde for a moment, before nodding his head.
Xavier Cross: "Because I have to. He'll enter the battlefield bragging about military might. I will counter with having the greatest soldiers to ever grace these lands. This will inspire arrogance. From there, I will gain favor with the mercenaries, as well as inspire my troops. If he refuses, his moral and leadership will be weakened. His soldiers will second guess a man not willing to risk his life for them. However, by doing so, I will accomplish our goals in one motion. I will buy our Mercenaries, win their favor, and kill Bordo and take his lands...Too simple right?"
Master Clyde: "You're thinking too far ahead, you've never met this man before..."
Xavier Cross: "But I've met men like him before, his pride will be his downfall, and I will twist his little ego until his entirety crumbles beneath him."
Master Clyde: "You're an interesting young man my Lord...I look forward to seeing how you play this game going forward."
A knock interrupts the meeting, as the door slowly slides open. The servant girl from Cross's room stands there, before bowing.
Servant Girl: "My Lords... the Guild awaits your presence."
Cross rises first, clapping his hands together.
Xavier Cross: "Gentlemen...let's go to work..."
*******
Alas, I feel a bit of sympathy for our opponents at Sacrifice, my elder brother, Kole...he has a bit of a, delightful fetish. You see, this man ravages and spits on ancient luchador traditions, some say he's a head hunter, but the masks of fallen opponents I've seen him take...You almost have to feel sympathy for these brothers.....
But Zass....you aren't afraid, Kole wanted to rip your arm off, but here you are...you could have walked away, and many say you should have...but you see boy, you are the kinda man we fight for.
Those who aren't afraid to stand up and swing at the hands of God, knowing that this life isn't fair. The game was rigged from the start, but I'm going to flip the table.
This world is meant for warriors, the strong shall dominate, and the weak will adapt or serve. There will be no gluttons of championships, hall of fames, or front office ego. This is the Warrior's Way, this is the Kingdom of Valhalla...
This is our world.
So I expect, our masked little friends to come at us, with everything you got. Maybe a bonus hits the pay check if you can deal a huge blow to the Council by knocking off half of the group. But we are growing larger by the second ladies and gentlemen, it's hard to say how many times our website has ran out of t-shirts over the last couple of days.
It's time to join the revolution...
*******
The dining hall had been prepared for a feast, unknown faces eyed him and the council as they made their way to the head seats. But Cross stopped for a moment, smiling as he looked over. Sitting down in a chair next to a small group.
Xavier Cross: "You eat with your men, not many Lords would do that."
A short, red-haired man, thin in stature, two daggers clipped to either hip eyes cross for a moment. Before laughing into his wine. His voice was soft, and his green eyes shined strangely. Raising a brow.
Elligosa: "Interesting, you walk into a room for a few moments, before declaring me the leader? What makes you so sure of yourself."
Cross nods his head, picking up a pitcher of wine, filling a glass for himself. The council looks a bit surprised, as he waves them away to go sit at the head seats.
Xavier Cross: "Simple, when the doors opened, and we entered the room. Glances kept being made down here. I was informed the Guild had four leaders, and here I see four sitting slightly away from the group, but not to far to make it awkward. It was subtle, but enough for me to make an educated guess..."
A barking laugh is heard across the table, a gruff, jet black haired man brushes the hair out of his face, looking at Xavier Cross.
Nendra: "So the King isn't as short sighted as we've heard...Interesting...So you picked us out of the group, you prepared us a meal, and I'm assuming your next trick is to pull out a dick of gold and see if we could suck it dry for you?"
Xavier Cross: "A dick of gold is simply flashy, only a fleshy hard cock can get the job done."
Elligosa nearly spits his wine out, as Nendra begins laughing once more.
Nendra: "A foul mouth lord, well my friend, here's to a joyful feast."
Raising his glass, the Guild leaders and Cross clank their glasses together, as Cross rests his shoulder on the table. As he glances at Elligosa, who blushes a moment before straightening up. Turning his attention to Nendra.
Nendra: "So how does a foul mouth like you become a lord?"
Xavier Cross: "Well, a long time ago I was just a damn good soldier in the fields of battle. I worked my way up, saved a few of the right people. Won land for the right people...Eventually, I was given fealty, and my own lands. But that wasn't enough....Eventually, I realized corrupt in the crown, and decided to rise up."
Nendra: "Corruption? What Lord isn't corrupt? What Lord doesn't have slaves? Doesn't break the common man for an extra gold?"
Xavier Cross: "Well then, brace yourselves for a rare sight. I am the kind of Lord who won't break a common man for an extra gold. Every servant who has worked in my house is paid fairly for the work, every man and woman to stand under my banner are free. When the day ends, if I make ten gold, I don't see the need to break someone to earn eleven. Simply put, am I happy with what I have...."
Elligosa: "So then why are you going to hire us?"
Xavier Cross: "Because I'm not happy with the state of the world, and the Mercenary Guild is my first step in changing the world."
Nendra: "Ah? You're a person with a grand world view, want to change it all in what your great ideal is? How many lives will spill blood in order for that to come true? Most look around this room and see us as expendable. Your council did as they looked down at us."
Xavier Cross: "If the dream is worth it, every life is expendable. Including my own, it's my dream so especially my own. Blood spilled will never be in vain."
Elligosa: "Mighty talk, coming from you...."
Cross raises a brow, looking at Elligosa, who's mood had changed as he had spoken on his dreams and goals. An older man finally raised his voice, sitting next to Elligosa. Eyeing Xavier for a moment as he spoke.
Tenzin: "You lost your last war...These two youngsters don't know why...But I've heard... Your forces were outnumbered, you led them into battle anyway. You met their commander on the field and challenged him to battle. When he agreed, you decided on a time to meet, and it ended in an ambush. However, there were rumors that you had pushed the tide back, and could have at least pushed them into a siege...Why did you retreat?"
Taking a long drink from his chalice, Cross doesn't answer right away. He can feel every eye in the room on him, and every ear listening to the conversation, from the most basic mercenary, the seats on his council. Setting his glass down, he lets out a deep sigh.
Xavier Cross: "Because I lost a lot of good men to push them back. To counter an ambush is damn near impossible if I were to keep pushing I'd lose even more. Siege tactics, they're tricky. I signed my defeat when I didn't push my men. I didn't want to throw away any more lives..."
Elligosa; "So you gave up on your dream?"
Xavier Cross: "Retreating is different than admitting defeat. It took a lot to gain exile instead of death. By surrendering in the end, I was able to spare many men from death, many lords betrayed me to gain the favor of the crown. But it's fine, I still have those who are loyal, and when I return...will rise back to the cause. A tactical retreat."
Tenzin: "Interesting...so what are your plans with us?"
Xavier smiles a bit, as he leans in and begins talking business.
***********
Some think we are bad guys, some think we are good guys. Some hate us, some love us. But at the end of the day, we aren't doing it for what people think. We are doing it to bring you a world where wrestling ability matters, not how much spit is on your cock.
No one is safe from us, you can be the babiest of faces, or the dirtiest of heels. If you think you've accomplished enough, and it's time to turn your career into the lazy river. You will be demolished as we burn this world to the ground.
You see the truth in between the lines, some choose to ignore it because it's just easy. But it isn't about easy any longer, oh no no no my faithful followers. No...this is far from easy any longer. Blood will flow, and demons will hide...When the Council...arrive...
Beckoned like horsemen in black, death comes knocking, it's your time. You have a better chance to fight, or will you kneel peacefully as you wait for the final clock to tick down the time. It's over...no more crying....goodbye...
This world ends....by our hands, by our fire....so say your pretty little words, and be done. I think it's time to let actions scream loud.
Also, buy a t-shirt at www.TheCouncil.com/SpikeKaneSucks
***********
The area was rocky, you could smell the smoldering in the hills from the forges. Bordo's land, was known for being rich in minerals, a mining town turned into a small kingdom. They had some of the best steel in the world, some say it was imbued with the power of the Goddesses. Cross wasn't one for superstition, however, he knew the resources he would receive from these lands was too great to pass up.
Xavier Cross: "Have your archers set up at the edge of the woods, this man is honorable, but I want us to be prepared for everything."
Nendra: "Aye M'lord. Are you sure you want to face him, we have many skilled men in our ranks, I'd love to show off my blades."
Cross smiles as he turns to Nendra.
Xavier Cross: "Your blades will serve me well at a better time Nendra, for now, I just ask you all protect my back while I meet Bordo in battle."
Nendra was a bit taken back with the humbleness Cross displayed. Hearing a horn off in the distance, Cross's relaxed expression snapped into a steel calmness. Hopping from his horse, Cross took a few steps to the neutral ground. His captains and mercenaries behind him watching carefully.
Bordo pulled the reigns on his horse, as his eyes moved under his steel helm, watching Cross carefully. Before hopping down from his own horse. The two men took a few steps towards one another before Bordo removed his helm.
Lord Bordo: "My challenge is a boy?"
His deep voice chuckles.
Lord Bordo: "The Traitor of the West....Xavier Cross. The Arrogant Eagle..."
Cross snarled a bit but shook off the anger boiling in his stomach.
Xavier Cross: "Bordo....Rhino of the East...your time as a failed leader is over. I have come to take your lands, your people, but more so...your life..."
Lord Bordo: "You think a sniveling little brat, with his toy soldiers, can defeat Lord Bordo and his warriors?"
He begins laughing once more.
Xavier Cross: "I don't put value in war any longer, there isn't a point in wasting good lives on you...I came to challenge you to a duel. I'd prefer your forces in tack when I take your lands. They'll make an excellent vanguard force..."
Lord Bordos spits on the ground as he steps to Xavier, who doesn't move.
Lord Bordos: "You come to my lands, you shit on my honor...you dare disrespect me in front of my men..."
His voice turns into a growl as he begins to remove a dagger from his side. Cross's eyes light up, their brown turning into a red. As he sidesteps the attack, sending a hard backhand with his gauntlet to the back of Bordo's head, who staggers forward a bit. Blood running down his neck. Bordo shakes his head, smiling as he motions to his men to throw him his weapon. A large battle ax, which splits part of the ground in two when the soldier's throw it to him. Cross studies this for a moment before leaping back to his horse.
Reaching up Cross pulls his hand and a half sword from the sheath attached to the side of his saddle. Charging forward, Bordo has grabbed his ax. Even in his old age, still lifts it with ease, swinging it wildly, Cross ducks down to avoid being split in two. Cross aims a slash of his own, but the clanking of metal is heard as Bordo's blocks with the handle of his ax.
Cross looks up, seeing the confident eyes of Bordo. He slides to the left, getting out of range for a moment. Both men pause a moment, studying each other's movements.
Lord Bordos: "Your eyes boy....I've seen them before..."
Xavier Cross: "Save your words for your last breath..."
Bordos charges forward, ax held on his shoulder. Leaping into the air, he goes it down, looking to split Cross in half. Cross leaps forward, rolling out of the way. Planting a foot in the ground, he spins his hips. Sword outstretched he hears the metal clanging once more. Bordo used the entire head of the ax as a shield.
Feeling the strength behind the ax, Cross spun once more using his speed to his advantage he managed to land a blow on the back of Bordo's heel, seeing the armor split, and a small bit of blood spill out. Bordos turns planting his feet he swings down once more with the ax. Cross isn't able to dodge in time, so he tries to block, bringing his sword up. The ax slams down across the sword, small pieces of metal fly, as do sparks as they collide.
Cross drove his knee into the ground, looking up at Bordo who had bloodlust in his eyes. Cross winced a bit, feeling the overwhelming pressure of Bordo's strength. It was over in this moment, the dream was going to die. Cross closed his eyes, trying to muster his strength up. His mind started to wander to visions of the past. Everything he had sacrificed for this, it was all going to end here. Until a voice rang out from his side of the crowd.
Elligosa: "Don't you dare give up! Don't you dare die and lie about those dreams you spoke with such bravado!"
His eyes snapped back open, as the Brown was gone, replaced with a deep red. Stepping up, he felt the blade shake in his hand, until it snapped. Seeing things happen, it felt like slow motion. The ax was bearing down, but all he could do was move forward. Feeling the metal pole of the ax hit his shoulder. Cross's shoulder snapped loudly, but it was quickly replaced by a scream. Cross plunged the broken sword into the open plate side of Bordo. Blood shot out like a rain storm, showering his entire right side as he stumbled back, dropping the ax. Cross hit his knee, clutching his shoulder, the broken blade falling to his side. Looking up, Xavier groans the surge of pain from his broken shoulder running through him.
Xavier Cross: "Bordos...if you don't receive medical attention now...you'll die..."
He grunts as he stands up, his left arm falling limb at his side. Cross stumbles forward, grunting through the pain as he kneels down picking up Bordos's battle ax. It was heavier than Cross imagined.
Xavier Cross: "If you bend your knee, and swear your loyalty to me. I will let you live...live for me...for my dreams...you never made a good Lord, but you'll make a fine commander of my Vanguard...."
Bordos grunts a bit, sitting up, clutching his side. Cross lifts the ax up, throwing it over his only good shoulder. Looking at Bordos. The two men stare each other down.
Lord Bordos: "You claimed to take my life when you came here, but yet you offer me this?"
Xavier Cross: "You were meant for things that don't involve sitting at a table making decisions for people, you are a warrior, nothing more or less. If you serve me, I will find you glory beyond your wildest dreams...If this battle had taken place before you became a lazy faux King, you would have crushed me with that blow...."
Lord Bordos laughs a bit, as he coughs up a bit of blood.
Lord Bordos: "You truly are something different...I accept your offer...these lands are yours..."
With the declaration of surrender, the soldiers of Xavier Cross rose with loud cheers. Cross hands the ax to one of Bordo's soldiers, as he kneels down helping Bordo's to his feet.
Xavier Cross: "We must hurry, you can't lose more blood."
Bordos looks a bit more shocked, at Xavier helping him up.
Bordos: "You are...extremely different than I imagined...helping an enemy to his feet..."
Xavier Cross: "The moment you surrendered, you stopped becoming an enemy, and became a valuable ally...Now let's get you some help..."
Soldiers ran to the scene, helping Bordos into a carriage, as he is attended to by healers. Cross looks back as Emmigosa is at his side.
Xavier Cross: "Thanks for that?"
Emmigosa blushes once more, as Cross looks at the carriage pulling away Bordos. He lets out a sigh.
Emmigosa: "Are you okay M'lord?"
Cross chuckles a bit, glancing at his limp arm.
Xavier Cross: "I won't be doing much dueling in the future, but...this is a huge victory...More so...I owe it to you Emmigosa...your words awoke me..."
Emmigosa: "My words? You closed your eyes, were admitting defeat...."
Xavier Cross: "I forgot what battle felt like, fighting him awoke something in me...but he has an overwhelming pressure....I've never felt that before..."
Emmigosa: "This land is full of strange warriors, with various skills....this isn't the Kingdom you're used to..."
Xavier Cross: "So do you believe in my dream?"
Emmigosa: "I believe in you..."
Cross smiles a bit, as he stumbles a bit, growing dizzy. Emmigosa catches him, to keep him stable.
Xavier Cross: "Looks like I overdid it a bit...let's go check out our new winnings...with the mines, we can get plenty of that rare steel and get our soldiers better arms...but first....we have to liberate the people...show them that they are equal in worth to anyone..."
Emmigosa: "Is that what you truly believe?"
Xavier Cross: "Everyone who draws breath, and lives their life, is entitled to the ability to live. Strength isn't just being strong, if you're so strong...you have a duty, no...a destiny to protect the weak...to perserve their way of life..."
Cross sighs a bit, as Emmigosa just looked shocked at his words, helping him onto his horse. Emmigosa shakes her head.
Emmigosa: "You are an idiot..."
Xavier Cross: "An idiot.......?"
Emmigosa: "Excuse me, an idiot...m'lord..."
Xavier Cross: "Much better..."
Well howdy there pardner.