A figure clad in white armor stood at the back of the crowd, doing her best to look unassuming. She cared little for these petty squabbles, but the World Warriors Tournament combined with the political instability in Zun was worth enough to at least have her attention. Choosing to bring so many Nomads here, at a time like this? It was not likely to be a coincidence... Her visor glowed blue as she frowned, trying to wrap her head around the situation.
Standing tall among the crowd was the spear-wielding knight, disappointed in the cancelling of the tournament. The old nomad couldn’t help but be upset over this denial of his, and the other warriors present’s, glory. Still, they had their reasons. No sense in fighting over it, the knight moved through the crowd until he saw a familiar face behind the mass of faceless nomads. “Seshat, by god it has been too long.” Fafnir greeted his friend. “I didn’t think you’d be the tournament type.”
Seshat’s eyes lit up as she took off her helmet and offered a small wave, her hair falling gracefully down past her shoulders.
“Why hello Fafnir,” She said, a smile only barely visible on her lips. “I wasn’t expecting to see you here.” Her tone didn’t carry nearly as much enthusiasm as one would expect for a reunion between friends, but those more familiar with her would know that it meant a lot coming from her.
“You are correct, though,” Seshat explained, turning right back to her thoughts. “I have little interest in such fights. I suspect that there may be something sinister happening in Zun that requires my attention, and given that I just finished in Iran with… “family” business…” she uncomfortably trailed off, her voice audibly constrained. A subject she liked to avoid.
“I have decided to stay until I have determined its nature.” Seshat concluded, with a quick huff. “This event is rather renowned across the world, so I think it is a good place to start.”
“Well that does sound to be suspicious, if nothing else. As I’ve no tournament to enter, I suppose I could stick around for potential assistance.” The warrior stated as he looked back towards the crowd. “I’m not one to look into such matters, but if any trouble does brew out of here I will gladly help put it down.”
“Ah,” Seshat said, her smile returning slightly brighter. “That would be most welcome, thank you.” She turned her gaze to figures in cloaks wandering through the crowd. A troubling sight. She considered summoning her rifle, but it probably wasn’t the best idea in an airport.
“So what have you been up to since we last met?” Seshat asked, keeping her eyes on the crowd. “You have been traveling the world as well, yes?”
“As of late yes, been trying my luck at these tournaments, good sport and all. Though with it closed I don’t have much to do now.” He stated simply, following his friend’s gaze to the people. “Pity, I was looking forward to matching blades with proven adversaries.” Seshat motioned her head towards the cloaked figures, not wanting to make it too obvious that she was on to them.
“I fear that you may just get you wish aft-” She immediately stopped speaking once the figures shed their cloaks and started shooting. A gun appeared in Seshat’s hand as she raised her arm forward, managing to find a target not blocked by the panicking crowd, and fired. The quick burst sent the armored fighter sprawling to the ground, and Seshat quickly donned her helmet once more.
Finally the kind of action the old soldier was waiting for. Fafnir leaped above the crowd, responding to a cut off Seshat with a “Just like old times!” The knight’s wings carried him forward as he darted to another armored assailant; He knocked him down with a hit of his plated elbow as he landed; and swung his lance out from his back to knock out an accomplice with the spear’s shaft.
Hello fellow supernatural figure. How would you like to be paid to travel around the world with all of those little inconveniences paid for. I have the funds necessary to offer this special employment. All I need you to do is to attend any of those...little tournaments, talk to other nomads, and assuredly all the small favors you do for me will be rewarded handsomely. A good deal no? If you are interested in such an offer, please, come by to my estate and we can discuss the finer details. Oh and for the sake of secrecy, burn this letter and any information pertaining to it.
-Vlad.
On the back of the note was the address of his manor, [redacted], Pennsylvania.
Under a cloudy afternoon, Vlad’s manor was resting comfortable atop a large hill surrounded by a vast forest in the middle of Pennsylvania. The gate seemed to be unattended and for most of the property it seemed vacant. But the beautiful 5 story mansion that sat in the center of the courtyard betrayed that illusion. On the large porch were several figures, some fully cloaked in hoods and others wearing what appeared to be ornate knight armor. Others still seemed to be doing chores around the property, servants in typical maid or butler attire doing all matter of yard work. Their expressions seemed off, and their flesh...stiff.
A slick black limousine pulled up to the gate. A tall, shapely figure stepped out and waved to the driver before they looked to confirm the address. Some crude sketches had since covered the letter, but the demon supposed they would look bad if they didn’t get rid of it. The paper was quickly torn to tiny pieces and thrown up in the air as a quick loop was drawn to create a strong gust of wind to carry it away.
Rosie quickly ran a hand through their hair and pushed through the gate. They gave the various figures out front a quizzical glance. Sitting around the front porch in armor like that? It looked rather gaudy, honestly… They strode up the front steps, heels clacking against the floor.
“I assume the master is on the premises?” The demon asked, assuming that they could at least follow simple orders.
Some of the ‘workers’ didn’t even acknowledge Rosie. The one dressed as a knight immediately responded. “Master Vlad has been expecting you.” Without moving, the door to the manor opened. A hunched, green-skinned figure greeted Rosie inside. “Yes yes, come in! Master Vlad is right this way!” He said excitedly. The..thing was dressed in a butler’s attire, but his flesh looked off. Green with rot yet no injury visible. He had only a few strands of hair on his hand, and his skin just looked saggy and old. His eyes were white and bugged out, and he barely had any teeth in his mouth. His fingernails were yellow with dirt, and his smell was less than pleasant. He’d hastily beckon Rosie as he seemed to hop up and down with each step, first facing her as he moved back before turning and fast-walking further into the estate. The foyer was decorated lavishly, with red carpets and dark walls. A Chandelier hung above the double set staircase. At the end of the room on the first floor, between the two hallways, was a large door that seemed to lead into a basement of sorts, though upon looking down the staircase went down far, and likely seemed to be more complex than just a basement.
“I assume he’s downstairs?” Rosie asked, poking their head down the staircase. They tried not to make their distaste at the smell too obvious. Still, at this point they wondered why Vlad didn’t just hang some pine scent on his help. The demon’s gloves brushed against the railing as they descended the staircase.
Upon descending downward, the room below seemed to be a mix between some regal interior castle and a dungeon. Ornate rugs and expensive paintings framed in gold hung around the stone brick room. Another chandelier hung above the center, where several men in suits were playing billiards below it. A wide screen tv was on the back wall, below it a bar with a similarly decaying figure acting as the server. The ‘ordinary’ men didn’t seem to mind though. Engaging in their sins of smoking and drinking.
There were wooden doors that lead to hallways that seemed to go further down into the earth, but near the pool table was an obviously expensive leather couch where none other then vlad sat. He was swirling a glass of what was either red wine or fresh blood in a wine glass.
“Ah you made it, come...have a seat!” He gestured to the identical sofa that was placed conveniently across from the one he sat, facing each other. He waved his hands to the men playing on the pool table. “Leave us for now.”
Without a word they all past Rosie, including the henchmen that lead her down, and walked upstairs. The door was closed behind Rosie, leaving the two alone.
“I’m sure you must be tired after the trip to get here...need a smoke?” He offered a cuban cigar taken from the glass table between the two sofas.
“Oh, no thanks…” Rosie responded with a nostalgic laugh. “I kicked the habit back when I got pregnant. If any of those drinks are… hemoglobin-free, however…”
The count rubbed his chin before snapping his fingers. All the way from the room’s bar, a wine glass and a bottle of vodka floated steadily and landed on the coffee table. The bottle uncorked itself, and began to pour.
“I am a simple man with simple tastes, Rosie. Yet the ‘recent’ uh…’outpour’ of all these nomads running around has gotten my attention. I would personally get a closer look but as you can imagine it’s a bit of a hassle for me to get about away from home. I prefer the simple comforts after all…” He paused his speech with a sip of his blood-mixed wine. His fangs sinking into the surface to absorb it.
“Do they make you nervous?” Rosie asked coyly. “Or do you want what they're after?” They took a sip of vodka. Vodka also hadn't been quite their style for a few decades now, but the demon still partook from time to time. Still felt rather strong.
“That’s the ticket, Rosie.” The vampire helped himself to a cigar. “I don’t know what they want, and they certainly are a few players I’d rather not make enemies with.” He leaned in closer, grinning with a fang visible. “But it’s still an opportunity I can’t pass up. People are the most valuable assets, my friend. I just need to know how to use them..” He’d then slide two photos, one of Fafnir and another of Jill. “Speaking of..these two in particular have most of my interest...The uh..’justice’ riders as they call themselves have a bit of a….well let’s say we don’t get along too well...And that other freak has been a nuisance to me before..Thought he died at some point honestly, until he started to show his ugly head back as of late. I don’t want to call any hitmen as if something goes awry that can leave me with more enemies; Not to mention, as I’ve said before people with such skills are valuable assets…” He’d lean back to sip his drink. “What I want you to do for me Rosie, is to I suppose…’spy’ on them. See what these lot are up to, maybe get to know them, as well as any other…’interesting’ nomads along the way. I need to see if there’s anything I can exploit out of them...Perhaps a tournament, people pay money for that kind of brutal entertainment don’t they? Well, regardless, I believe these fools congregated at that cancelled tournament in Zun, I’d imagine they’ll stick around for a while...why not pay them a visit? Of course, I will personally fund the whole expedition, including all the expenses you need and a handsome pay as I’ve discussed in the letter. All I need you to do is to obtain as much information you can about them, and to keep in touch..” With that, he slid over the table of what appeared to be a black cellphone.
“Well I don’t know if I’ll be much of a spy,” Rosie admitted, snatching the phone off the table. “I somehow manage to attract a lot of rather hostile attention myself. I’m sure you know how it is.” They took a quick glance at each photo, forming a noticeable frown for a moment before putting them back down.
“Funny you should mention the Riders, though;” Rosie said. “We have a bit of a… complicated history. This one looks a bit new…” The demon started twirling their hair on the end of their fingers.
“You didn’t hear this from me,” Rosie continued. “But when it comes to SHINING, you’re playing with fire. Those Riders can look rather bumbling, but that company has a finger in every pie. If they haven’t killed you yet, it’s probably because they find you useful as well.” Their gaze went back to the photo.
“Now the Riders themselves?” Rosie said. “A whole different story.” They began tapping their phone for a few seconds before continuing.
“This one is… Justice Rider Blaze, correct?” Rosie asked. “We’ve never met, but I have a few connections. Her little sister recently entered a pact with one of my acquaintances, in fact. They apparently share a rather strong bond…” They trailed off.
“This other one…” The demon mused, staring at the picture for a moment. “Seems familiar, but I’m not quite sure. I’ll have to get back to you on that.” They took another sip of vodka.
“Hmm..” The vampire withdrew the photos back into the suit. “Very well, it’s no surprise I have to play this cautiously. I’ve already arranged a private jet in the back, if you are ready to go now.”
“You don’t want to have a little fun first?” Rosie teased. “Ah well. I’ll be in touch.” They finished their drink before they left. A private plane? All expenses paid? This was shaping up to sound like quite the job...
Fafnir is a surviving mythological being. In his original form, the dragon stood (on four legs) at a monstrous size, the like of which dwarfed only by the eldest of his kin. Though due to the nature of his seal his form had regressed significantly in size and power. The beast has two bull like horns and a third blade-like horn on the snout, as well as sharp spines that run down his back and below his jaw. Black plated scales armor his body along with the somewhat softer crimson scales of his underbelly. His eyes are crocodilian in nature, and are a piercing yellow. Black jagged teeth run the maw of the saurian-shaped head, with a forked tongue slithering within his mouth. A sail-like frill runs along his back between the sharp spines and can extend or recede in a display, tallest near the top of long snake-like neck. Long bat-like wings act as a third pair of limbs, all 3 pairs bear sharp 3-fingered claws.
In his usual, sealed form however, he is a massive 7'5" beige-skinned human with typical Aryan facial features and a muscular build. However he still retains some leaks of his inhuman nature in the form of his reptilian, glowing snake-like eyes(Like his dragon form, his eyes are yellow but glow a crimson firey light), a pair of leathery wings and a large, lumbering tail of black and red keeled scales and a barbed tip.
His armor is fully plated iron, from head to foot, that fully conceals him. The only parts of him not concealed is his tail. His wings are covered with a bird-like/angelic design in this armor, with some kind of flexible but plated material. The armor has various runes carved into it to attune with his Ki, as well as his large 6'0 lance he wields as a weapon, and a massive plated shield.
PERSONALITY TRAITS
Wise Observant Prideful Honorable Silent thinker Loner Vengeful Not-very-Tech-Savy(As well as just being not too familiar with most products of modern culture in general.) Stuck in the past, old way mentality. Long fuse( but should that fuse be lit it can provoke him into a much more animalistic or feral nature.)
BACKSTORY & MOTIVATION
The Awakening of Bahagara
The first dragon suppossedly was the Ur-Dragon, a great behemoth whose legends say it rose from a star that fell from the heavens. The original king of dragons, the Ur-Dragon had such immense ki that fueled with it's molten breath and mighty wings it forged storms that brought life to the first dragons. Though born of heat and ki, dragons are mostly biological creatures. Reptilian beasts that have been noted to have a wide variety of forms including small wyverns or the more spiritual eastern serpents. All dragons have an inherent affinity towards fire, thus even those with more exotic powers such as ice dragons have an unnatural immunity to heat and flame. Like their progenitor, dragons are born with immense power and ki, and are biologically immortal as they only grow more powerful as they age. Dragons are capable of natural reproduction, but due to their immortal lifespan it is an incredibly slow process, thus their population is only sustainable through the presence of an Ur-dragon. Dragons are often born with a lust for power and notorious greed. Though there are exceptions, most dragons as a result have a desire to wreak havoc and accumulate wealth and territory; both to other creatures and their own kin. It is this very nature that led to the inevitable downfall of the Ur-Dragon, as the first of it's spawn, the primordials, eventually grew to sizes that rivaled the mountain-sized progenitor.
Even after the Ur-Dragon's defeat, there can only be a single king, and thus, the primordials turned on each other. The calamity rendered the species into near-extinction; with Bahagarra, the last primordial, one of the few survivors. Filling the power vacuum, Bahagarra absorbed the powers of the Ur-Dragon to become the next Dragon King. The first storms he brewed were small and only yielded a few dragons, one of which being Fafnir himself. Weakened from the war Bahagarra went into a deep slumber while what little offspring he produced left to their own devices. Around the time of the middle ages, the ancient dragon awoke abruptly when an unknown adventurer disturbed his resting site; Starved of destruction and fury, the still weakened Bahagarra breathed wicked tempests that spawned an army of dragons, which began to spread along the globe to satisfy their destructive urges. Humanity was plagued with an onslaught of dragon attacks. It was during this time when Fafnir suffered the defeat that inspired him to change. Meanwhile, a legendary warrior (Seshat) went to stop the dragon apocalypse by confronting the dragon king himself. A great battle ensued, and the warrior returned successfully with the slaying of the dragon king. With the defeat of the Dragon King, the dragons stomped spawning. Most were inevitably slain, some tried to fill the power vacuum (and failed, others went into hiding or into a deep slumber, waiting for the return of a king.
Fafnir was once a great dragon of malice, fueled by a thirst for utter destruction and power. As if by instinct his feral nature laid ruin to villages and kingdoms of old. The first spawn of Bahagarra he was unrivaled by his generation and those that came after, and was one of the most active scourges to humanity. Yet one brave and mighty knight of one, now lost, kingdom had finally defeated him and ended his centuries of terror. The knight's birth name was Gabriel Sigurd, though dubbed as Arch-angel Gabriel by his kingdom; owed to his unnatural and incredible power and skill, as if he were some divine instrument, and the angelic wings adorned from his armor, which granted him flight. He had not only humbled the monster in his defeat, but his code of honor and mercy towards the beast, an unusual gesture of kindness towards a monster that had previously bore no sympathy, inspired Fafnir hence fourth. The beast followed the knight's example, served the same kingdom with up most loyalty, and began to become intrigued and respectful of the martial prowess of the mortals once trained to slay him. Eventually, he abandoned his form through arcane rites, and convinced a then retired Sir Sigurd to teach him his martial power. When Sigurd inevitable fell to the mortal fate of all humans, the immortal dragon carried on his mentor's legacy. Taking his enchanted armaments, lance, armor, and shield, and even his surname, he continued to serve the kingdom and passed down his ways to the knights and soldiers of that realm, and the wandering warriors that sought his teachings. However his most proud hobby was seeking worthy opponents for the sport of combat. Whether it be a monster, a warrior, or something otherwordly; ever since his battle with Gabriel, Fafnir has acquired the taste of honorable combat. Always seeking the next opponent that could replicate the same feelings he felt in that original battle, never truly satisfied, but eager to continue. The teachings of Sigurd never left him, both in skill and in morality. As an eternal respect for his long deceased master, the knight retains the ideologies of the honorable and chivalrous knight his mentor once was. He defended the kingdom from others of his kin, until the dragons stopped spawning with Bahagarra's defeat.
But all things must come to an end. The kingdom he once served inevitably became lost to time, the ruins of its once proud structures sunken beneath water and dirt. With little purpose left, the ancient being sunk into a depression, and slumbered for the centuries to come. Finding solice in the tomb of his progenitors, and for that time, guarding it so that no one would reawaken the disasters that may plague the world again. One day, amidst his ancient slumber, he had a dream. A dream of his master, a dream of promise. Dreams that filled the forgotten soldier with hope. He longed for that thrill of battle that was lost to him. Such motivation stirred him from his slumber, and the primordial knight rose from the dirt and sea to witness the new world. So much had changed, there was so much to learn. But more importantly, there were fighters to find, warriors to challenge. Though he may had lost his master and his kingdom, he still had one purpose left in life, and that was the thrill of battle.
FIGHTING STYLE & ABILITIES
FIGHTING STYLE
With the exception of being somewhat more nimble Fafnir is not as strong, nor as in tune with his ki in this false image, however he makes up for that weakness with the vast amount of generations he spent honing a finesse with weaponry. His primary tactics use a mixture of Ki power and his trusty lance, one that served him throughout generations. In unarmed combat he lacks the finesse he wields with his lance, and thus his kicks and punches, though powerful, are slow and crude. Such attacks lack the proper speed or efficiency those more experienced with hand-to-hand combat possess. His 'style' in which case usually involves excessive use of using his weight and size to body slam, elbow, or grapple enemies with his crushing strength and weight. He also utilizes his tail to whip or even stab at his foes as a spear if he feels such strategies are warranted. Though capable of flight in his sealed form, he's a slow glider and can only effectively 'dash' with leaping or landing. Thus doesn't have any real aerial combat technique.
He is no stranger to pain and is more then willing to take injuries so long as it means he can strike back. While winning is fine, he is more focused on the thrill of the battle itself and chooses to prolong the fight if possible. While mercy isn't strictly enforced in his honor code, he has no qualms offering that same kindness he was dealt when defeated by Joseph.
Fafnir in his humanoid form takes the time to stay mostly defensive and study his opponents carefully, using what energy is necessary to protect himself and keeping the flow of battle steady so that he can conserve the rest for when he feels the opportune moment to unleash it. He often plays to what his opponent offers, even if his foe is weaker then Fafnir, Fafnir rarely goes anything beyond his foe's own level in that case, in the start of that fight. This is for both to take pleasure in the battle itself, but to once again, take time to study his opponent.
If he ever sheds his mortal form however, Fafnir's fighting style is a u-turn from his original style. Without any finesse or weaponry, He relies solely on ki-power and physical capabilities his form offers. Just as the Dragon-Form will often go all out at the very start of his transformation, his instincts become much more of primal fury, at some points even lacking self-control with how carried away his predatory nature takes a hold of him. For this reason he only uses his true-form as a last resort tactic, or if someone really infuriates him. In most scenarios he'd much rather lose in his mortal form then to win in his true form, unless if that fight mattered more beyond his entertainment and honor.
SPECIAL MOVES & TECHNIQUES
■ Fury Jab
Fafnir imbues his lance with flames and unleashes a fast, multi-thrust attack with his lance. Unless if he has the intention to kill, the thrusts will usually be aimed to impale the arms and lower torso, and/or any equipment the target may be holding. The blade is typically outlined with a trail of flames
■ Grapple Bolt
Fafnir thrusts his hand forwards, and summons a whip-like tendril of electricity that acts as a tether-grab. Pulling him to whatever the bolt connects with or dragging it back to him.
■ Grapple Bolt
Fafnir thrusts his hand forwards, and summons a whip-like tendril of electricity that acts as a tether-grab. Pulling him to whatever the bolt connects with or dragging it back to him.
■ Shield Hammer
With shield equipped, Fafnir swings his great shield with heavy force to attempt to both stagger and disarm an opponent in melee.
■ Scalelord's Conquest
Fafnir Soars into the air then lands down upon his opponent with high velocity, down thrusting his lance to either impale the foe from above or to thrust it through the ground, in either scenario the landing produces an electric and pressure blast of ki around both him and the weapon
■ Burning Honor
Fafnir becomes engulfed in flames, as if the fire was an additional set of armor. Its brightness can also obscure his figure making long-range precision based attacks more likely to miss him, in addition to slowly cooking those that are too close for comfort. Though extended use can eat away at his ki reserve.
■ Disarming Grasp
If unarmed, Fafnir can channel ki into his hand to create a powerful electric charge or blast of fire, which will either be used as a simple, powerful punch, or tip grip/choke hold an opponent at the right opportunity to deliver the full voltage(or heat and force if he uses flames instead.) of that energy.
■ Thunder Spear
Fafnir can imbue his lance with electric ki to deliver a devastating blow rivaling the power of a lightning bolt. Alternatively, with a steady aim, he can abandon his weapon by tossing it forward channeled heavily with ki. The thrown lance takes the form of a lightning bolt as it blasts the surface of whatever it impacts with great radiant voltage and force.
■ Rising Fire
Fafnir and slashes or raises his lance in a sweeping motion, and a wave of flames spawn from the ground and rise up at an angle facing away from him with great force and heat. Alternatively Fafnir can use this skill without his weapon by slamming his fist on the earth below him, which creates the same firey explosion directly below and around him instead.
■ Valor of the scales
Shield raised, a crimson aura extends from the shield, widening it’s defensive range. The aura shield can withstand some damage, but will shatter with sufficient stress(Half the strength of a grenade). Ineffective for melee as it faces one direction and can't counter attack while it is up.
■ Dragon's Blaze
After taking a deep breathe, Fafnir can use his ki to spew a short blast of pressurized air and flames from his mouth and wings at a range of 4 meters. The attack is more focused on knock back rather then heat or damage.
■ Scale’s Blessing
Raising his shield, Fafnir can buff an individual other then himself, granting them temporary regeneration, ki amplification, stamina recovery, and ease of pain. The buff lasts for few minutes, and can only be used once per 24 hours. Upon recieving this buff, previously existing wounds will mostly heal including gaping holes, damaged organs, and broken bones.
■ Constricting Catch
Utilizing his prehensile tail, Fafnir can lash it out at his foes from around or below him. In this technique, he uses his tail to grapple via wrapping around his opponent's arm, torso, or leg; Usually then resulting in him tossing that opponent aside.
SUPER MOVES
■ Tactical Swipe
Fafnir channels his ki to the lance's blade, giving it twice as much reach as well as a combination of electric and fire based ki, though the motion itself is slow the concentrated power is designed to break someone's guard and/or armor, if not a killing blow. Swinging or thrusting his charged up blade will also create a crescent shaped wave of pressurized flames and electric current, creating a projectile that is not as powerful as being hit with the melee attack itself.
■ Raging Dragon's Soul
Fafnir summons an oriental dragon made entirely of fire based ki; willed to charge and either smash or engulf a target with intense flames. Though the dragon's length can extend it's only half a body, with Fafnir's body being attached to where the dragon's lower half would be. The dragon disperses shortly after its initial attack. During it's summon, Fafnir is immobile.
■ Unmasking the seal
Fafnir reveals his true form, a monstrous, ancient dragon.
Although Fafnir is immune to heat-related damage in both his mortal shell and true form and being fairly durable with both a tough body and tremendous natural ki, his superhuman resilience is increased further with scales (except the underbelly) that have the durability to rival steel even without his ki. In flight, the form can be quiet fast and nimble in the air despite his size and weight. Claws and maw that can crush stone and metal with ease, as well as a powerful tail equipped with a sharp spine at the tip to simulate a spear. The dragon can also breathe a torrential spray of molten fire or bolts of black lightning from his maw. However, due to Fafnir having spent most of his days now in his sealed form, the seal had grown a tight lock on his true nature. Fafnir can only transform into a 'dwarf' (Approximately 50 feet long.) and weakened state of his original form for a brief time of 5 minutes with a few hours of cooldown time.
WEAKNESSES & LIMITS
Worst of worlds: In most situations, Fafnir starts out slow in his sealed form, often trying to fight at an 'equal' footing at his opponents. Weaker opponents as a result have a better chance of beating him, as does stronger opponents that he can't adapt to in time. In the rare occasion where Fafnir has no honor or respect for an opponent, he will go all out and transform, instead becoming reckless and easy to tire out. Either way, it isn't too difficult to strategies against.
Glutton for punishment: His bloodlust for battle and refusal to dishonor his opponents often lead him to purposely taking hits. Usually he takes advantages of these blows to counter attack, however the sport he finds in testing the strength or force of his opponent's attacks can often give him situations with damage that he could have prevented.
Prideful Vengeance: Despite his worked up tolerance, those that damage his pride can potentially tear through his wisdom and better judgement if they know what buttons to push. Insulting his honor is one sure way to enrage him. Though he is often humble, he still carries with him a sense of pride of his own power partially fueled by the innate, natural arrogance of a dragon.
Imperfect Armor: In his dragon form, the underbelly is soft and vulnerable to attack.
Cold-blooded: Fafnir does best in hot environments. Exposed to cold conditions or cryogenic based attacks can weaken his endurance and overall performance.
OTHER
His armaments; Shield, Lance, and Armor, are enchanted and it will be restored after a day to his arsenal if they are damaged or destroyed. Out of combat he can summon and unsummon these equipment's at will.
The mountain where the original Ur-Dragon arrived upon, deep within the rock lies a vast cavern lit by massive illuminating crystals. molten rock, and pools of sparkling water. Surrounding the walls of the massive hole is the skeleton of Bahagarrah, his head encircled by a sacred marble shrine. Surrounding the shrine are a grand accumulation of gold and treasure. This is the home of Fafnir, the tomb of his progenitors and place he guards when he isn't about experiencing the new world. Within the shrine lies the soul of the Ur-Dragon, a firey vortex of ki that stagnates from the Ur-Dragon's soul, passed down to Bahagarra, and now lays masterless. If one were to survive absorbing such power, they'd bring back the age of dragons by becoming the next Ur-Dragon.
An undead dragon; Kilgarrah Zmey, slumbers within this site, acting as the sole defender of this chasm when Fafnir is not around.
Vlad Relapmi Ruthven
⦋ ??? || ??? || Male ⦌
APPEARANCE & PERSONALITY
As a typical vampire, Vlad has pale white skin and glowing crimson eyes. His hair is a raven black and his face sports a hint of stubble. The fangs are immediately noticable. His physique his tall and lean, standing at 6'5".
Vlad makes sure to always dress appropriately. He often wears some form of formal attire, usually a black suit with a red tie. Sometimes he wears an overly large-brimmed sunhat, and of course, always wearing a long black and red cape with a cowl.
Vlad usually has a facade of grace. He is a formal gentleman; often polite, or tries to be. Regardless, underneath that facade is a chaotic individual who certainly has no qualms with feeding off of the living, or messing with the wrong people. Immortality has made life, well, boring, and Vlad often entertains himself with mischief; sometimes harmless. There is an obvious, and perhaps, annoying sense of pride and confidence that Vlad always carries. Overconfident in both his own nature as 'the prince of the night', as well as considering himself to be a man of high class and wealth. Due to this Vlad looks upon less fortunate soul with (almost) a sense of pity. Mortals too. Almost, but, not enough for him to make a difference.
Being a man of dignity, Vlad distastes getting himself dirty. Whether it be combat, or merely feeding, Redrum tries to be as clean and as professional as possible.
When he is expected to duel or to otherwise get busy, he will often wear his 'duelist uniform' which is just a glorified black and gold fencer uniform (Which is also sun proof):
The reporter walked into the mansion, taking nervous steps on the clean tiled floor. The cameraman behind her was just as cautious. As they walked, they couldn't help but notice the servants around them. Maids and butlers, all with a lifeless expression; dead eyes watching them as they moved further. The room was cold, and the motionless servants didn't help to lift the atmosphere.
"Are you sure this isn't a prank?" Said the cameraman, having attempted to turn his fear into frustration.
"He gave us an invitation in person, remember? It's un-" She snapped back, but was cut off as a sudden motion caught both of their attention. Before them, between the double staircase of the foyer, rose a swirling mass that had seemed to swoop down on the floor from the shadows. Taking shape from the swirl of motion, later revealed to be his cape, was the man of the hour himself.
"Greetings, welcome to my humble abode." Vlad bowed politely before his guests, dressed in his typical evening suit. "I hope my loyal subjects haven't bothered you." He said, his voice was almost enchanting, yet there in lied waited something sinister in his tone; like a serpent.
He snapped his fingers, and the handful of maids and butlers suddenly came to life. They seemed to carry on with their duties; moving furniture and decor, preparing drinks, and the like. Set up by several servants were a pair of expensive, decorative chairs with fine silk cushions, and a likewise rich couch of a black dyed fabric. Vlad had taken a seat on the sofa. Just as the reporter took a seat on one of the chairs, a maid approach to set up a tray with what appeared to be freshly served snacks; A glass of wine and miniature sandwiches.
The cameraman turned on his camera to film the two.
"So, what brings you to my estate, you'll have to forgive my poor memory."
"We um." She turned to the tray briefly to decide on whether taking a bite or not, before refusing. "Well you said you would tell the world where you came from, why you're here. Fans are dying to know after all, what's your story?"
He chuckled. "Fans? Story?" He waved his hand way in a dismissal motion.
"Oh you mortals and your, strange fascination with romanticizing monsters nowadays. 300 years ago you wouldn't see that kind of opinion out there." He sighed. "Ah but those days are over I'm afraid, very well, I shall tell you what I can remember.." He waved his hand in a dramatic motion as he began;
"You see, I was born into a royal family of, well, a kingdom of sorts. The name? I couldn't recall." He laughed, amusing himself. "Those kinds of details don't matter anymore anyway, I know it doesn't exist anymore. Anyway; so, of course, this small little civilization there, I think it was somewhere in east Europe; we were...let's say not the most liked kind of rulers out there. Sure, we didn't needlessly kill anyone. But there were complaints from the commoners about corruption, wickedness, greed, what have you. And sure, I suppose those complaints were...not far from the truth. I can't remember my father, I knew he was there, I knew what he did, but well; I suppose I just didn't care enough for him to remember. My mother, well, she was the one who spoiled me when I was a young one, I remember that face well enough. My sister, well...I suppose I have her to thank to be where I am today.
You see, I suppose it all started when famine struck our lands. Rain hadn't fall, the soil had become ill, and well; life was miserable. For them, not us, of course. While they starved outside, poor and with little food, we hoarded the land's boon. Fresh pig, mutton, mm...I almost missed that taste." He trailed off for a moment.
"Mr. Dalv?"
"Oh, pardon me."
"Is that your real name?"
"What is?"
"Dalv."
"Oh, no." He chuckled, waving away her thought. "No, my real name was far less suitable I suppose. I abandoned it sometime ago."
"Oh, well..."
Vlad took the advantage of her silence to continue. "Where was I? Oh yes, you see; They didn't like that fact too much, the commoners. They decided to have a riot of sorts. Pitchforks and torches, all that nonsense. Of course the guards initially had their uses, but I guess many of them joined the crowd since I, well, I suppose my father forgot to treat them well." He snickered. At the time I was about as old as, well, how you see me now. But still, I wasn't in charge. No I'd be on merry strolls enjoying my privileges and flirting with the local beauties. My carefree life was taken away by my reckless family."
"So you resent them?" She asked.
"Heavens no." He once again made a dismissal hand gesture, scoffing at the idea. "If it wasn't for them I wouldn't be here now. You see, because of this predicament, we were..desperate. My sister, now, I didn't know what she was up to. But it was revealed on that day that she was well versed in the occult. Now, I don't know if she was a witch, but I'm sure on any other day she could have been burned for that fact. Anyway, with her connections and my...father's..." He seemed to hesitate for a moment, a flash of anger briefly in his expression, as if a sudden memory popped into view. He played it off with a brief snicker. "My father had no idea what he was doing when he thrashed his daughter about saving them. The price she insisted was too high. Well, she couldn't do anything against an angry and desperate man losing power; so she had summoned a vampire."
A smile curled on his lips, revealing his fangs. "Shocker, I know."
"But it gets better. You see, the vampire in question was happy to deal with our little problem; But my father gave him a..well a bit too stern of an attitude. He didn't know his place. So our little blood-sucking friend wasn't in the best of mood to help us. More importantly, it was a bloody vampire; I mean who the hell.." He sighed. "I'm getting off topic. Anyway, our blood-sucking hero explains to us that he will grant our wish if we are willing to sacrifice one of our own. Sure enough, immediately without consent, my father picks out my sister. Now, as the vampire explained that he must literally stand his own damned child in the back; I was well...I didn't like that much really. Mother well, I'm sure she didn't want that, but she didn't interfere. So, I picked up a decorative sword from the wall, and used it to strike my father's back while he was busy on my sibling. Of course he was shocked, as was I, that was my first....kill. So to speak. While all this was happening, mind you, the revolt was reaching our doors. The vampire, having accepted the father as the sacrifice, took to dealing with the first wave of an angry mob. I don't remember the details, I recall my mother screaming; going into a corner. I remember my father trying to mouth something, struggling through rage and shock. 'Course I don't remember what he said. What I do remember, was my sister. Upon seeing the massacre she tried to stop what she had summoned. She drew a knife and stabbed the vampire's chest. I think she was going for the heart, but apparently she missed. The dagger didn't seem to go through his flesh that much either...Anyway, the angry fiend turned around and gutted her like a pig.
Now you can, imagine the shock of those events. The trauma, and all. I completely forgot who that monster was with how...well I'm not sure how to describe how I felt. It's been so long since I felt such emotion, and it was too complicated to wave it away as angry. No it was mixed with all..sorts..of delicious emotions. Rage, Fear, Shock, terror, panic....Ah, yes a lot of terrible things going on off at once. It made me dumb enough to attack the thing, and obviously my efforts were in vain. At this point most of the riot had realized what was happening after their first wave had been massacred, and began to scream in terror back to the village. The chaos had set the castle ablaze, I remember that, because I distinctly recall the fire twisting light and shadows around this...monstrous figure. It towered over me, scoffed, and I believe it bit my neck. It had to have had, because if he didn't, I wouldn't be here. Regardless, There was no period I remember in between; like sleeping and waking. I awoke, to find myself surrounded in a closed space of wood. It didn't take long to realize I had been buried alive. Except, I wasn't really alive, now was I?" He grinned again at the woman, giving her a wink with his crimson eyes.
The gesture sent a shiver down her spine, but she continued. "That..that must been when you turned then."
"Correct." He responded. "My skin was pale, I had no pulse; I was cold, but not..really. Numb perhaps. Anyway, I freaked out and struggled for a bit. Eventually I discovered the unnatural strength I had which allowed me to claw my way out of the coffin and the earth. I awoke in the graveyard, and returned to my castle. It had been well, 3 days since I died. According to what I learned. My subjects were shocked to see me. I was more shocked, to see my mother's, the queen's, battered corpse hanging from the front of the castle gate; sweet dry blood staining the stone bricks. Well they called us a monster in life, so I decided to give them what they said I was."
His grin faded back into a smile, though it still felt sinister to the woman, who now nervously took a sip of the wine. "Well, the few that I liked I turned into the loyal subjects you see around this manner. Eternal like me, but not quite vampires. Pity they don't have any free will to entertain me with."
"Wow that is um...fascinating, Mr. Dalv. But why are you here now, so far away from home?"
"Money, fame, social status. Trivial things mind you, and of course, living in a damp old castle isn't really a lifestyle fit for a prince, is it?" He said as he slowly moved off from the couch.
The woman was speechless as she was staring into Vlad's eyes. Like it was some kind of trance. The cameraman noticed this, and turned his camera off. He tried to snap her awake, shouting "hey!" But our dashing young vampire had closed the distance between them in unnatural speed. His cold white fingers gripped the man's throat, cutting his voice off from any further sound. "Shhh.." He whispered as his nails elongated into claws, drawing blood from small cuts that were made on his neck from the transformation of the fingers. Drawing his fangs, he bit into the cameraman's neck, who dropped his camera from the attack. He was sucked dry, while the woman remained in a trance. "Hmm.." He said as he dropped the corpse. "Well, I think this will make a fine addition to the auditorium. What do you think...what was your name again Darling?"
"Mary." She said in a tranced voice, as if she was talking in her sleep.
"Ah, a pleasure to make your acquaintance my dear." He spoke, before taking a bite out of her neck as well.
FIGHTING STYLE & ABILITIES
FIGHTING STYLE
Vlad as a high class gentleman, doesn't like to get dirty or expend to much effort. However he is not opposed to a proper duel or challenge. Wielding a rather long rapier which he has dubbed 'The Impaler', Vlad strikes with swift jabs while sustaining a comfortable distance between himself and his opponent. Drawing blood, usually from his foe, allows him to use his vampiric powers further to his advantage.
His vampiric physiology has given him numerous supernatural advantages. While the vampiric ki he possesses is in itself relatively weak; he is still unnaturally strong and durable. He can regenerate effectively (So long as his heart isn't destroyed). Able to see in the dark, possessing a strong sense of smell, and being tied to necromancy are all traits of a vampire Vlad can exploit. His 'art' practices mostly on blood manipulation. Blood that has been separated from a body can be manipulated into various ways by the moves below. This blood can be his own blood or another's, but if it is an outside source it cannot be manipulated while connected to one's body and ki. Meaning the blood used must be outside the body and drawn out such as a puddle of blood or on his sword. This form of blood manipulation is fueled and controlled by his vampiric ki.
SPECIAL MOVES & TECHNIQUES
■ [Vampiric Mist]
[Vlad turns into an immobile body of mist; becoming temporarily intangible and immune to attacks, but cannot move during this state.]
■ [Bat Form]
[Vlad can turn into a small, fast vampire bat. While still having blood sucking fangs he is mostly defenseless in this form. But his small size and swift speed makes him a difficult target in this form. Best used for transportation or evading attacks.]
■ [Blood Fire]
[Vlad can cause blood to boil into a burning liquid, or even explode rapidly into a powerful burst.]
■ [Crimson Blade]
[With blood staining his rapier, Vlad can extend and freeze the blood into a longer ranged blade. The exact shape of this blood sword/weapon can be determined by him.]
■ [Blood spear]
[Vlad can project a bolt composed of semi frozen blood either from a portion of crimson blade, a nearby blood puddle, or from his own body. The resulting projectile is both sharp and fast, like a crossbow bolt.]
■ [Ghastly Presence]
[Vlad allow's himself reveal or suppress his own fiendish presence at will. When revealed, his presence makes the surrounding area drop in temperature, often accompanied by shadows twists around him or letting the wind howl. Animals will often either go quiet at his presence, or freak out by barking/growling. Small open flames can be put out as well by this ability.]
■ [Mage Hand]
[An incorporeal hand can be summoned at will by Vlad. This hand acts as an independant, floating hand. Able to lift, carry, pull, and push objects. It can't attack by itself, but can throw objects or wield weapons. The hand's range is limited by 30 meters around Vlad]
■ [Blood Snare]
[A tendril or multiple tendrils form from either Vlad's own blood, a blood puddle, or from his crimson blade. The tendril aims to wrap around a subject to trap them in place, and is free to pull or move trapped victims if successful. The tendrils may also throw these victims, or instead act to slam into said victim instead of trying to grab them.]
■ [Vampiric Waltz]
[Vlad expends more of his vampiric ki to apply his undead speed. Turning himself into almost a blur of speed, Vlad will attempt to disorient his opponent by taking three stride-like side steps, which cover a large distance with only a motion trail. In between each step is a rhytmic pause. Then he performs a fourth motion; either perform a counter attack with his rapier, or retreat into a nearby hiding place.]
■ [Blood Wave]
[From his own blood/body, a nearby puddle, or through crimson blade, Vlad can generate a crescent shaped wave of blood, which is sharp enough to act as a bladed projectile.
■ [Duelist Flurry]
[A rapid thrust attack with his rapier, aiming to both disorient his opponent with a flurry of attacks with the hopes of at least landing one hit to draw blood.]
■ [Vampiric Hypnosis]
By staring deeply into his eyes, and requiring activation, Vlad can put people under hypnosis, and manipulate them under his will temporarily. This requires sustained eye contact, and most commands can only be sustained and obeyed by remaining in that trance. Subconscious orders can also be implanted to perform later, but this is harder to pull off if they have a strong will. Hypnosis doesn't work with people that can use their ki, or if they have a strong enough will power. Breaking eye contact for more then 5 seconds ends the trance. A sustained trance of 2 minutes is required to implant a subconscious command.]
SUPER MOVES
■ [Blood Storm]
[Vlad unleashes a flurry of blood spears in rapid fire.]
■ [Midnight Swarm]
[Vlad conjures hundreds of bats that swarm their opponent with fangs and clawed feet. The bats are a bit more monstrous looking then the average vampire bat. They are the size of fruit bats, with long claws for feet and canine-rowed teeth in their maws. Blood red eyes and slick wolf-like fur. Being slightly stronger then the average bat, they are potentially dangerous, but not too difficult to kill individually. The swarm de-spawns after 1 minute.]
■ [Life Drain]
[With a tight grip of an opponent, Vlad unleashed a torrent of undead, necromatic magic. Opponents that are mortal and biologically will have their skin burst in bloody lesions and mild decay/rot under contact from Vlad's palm. Both their life force and ki are drained by this move, temporarily weakening them and making the pain of their injuries much more unbearable then it would otherwise.]
WEAKNESSES & LIMITS
Since vampire's are undead, they're ki is not entirelyself-sustainable. Instead it is drawn from the blood of their victims, and absorbed to be stored and help fuel their false life. Only minute amounts of ki is restored through their death-like 'slumber', which is most effective when sleeping in their own native soil. Since vampiric ki is absorbed from the life energy of blood itself, it is often attributed with a blood-colored tint of hue when exposed. Those that are able to control ki are more difficult to drink from, as their blood can 'fight back' when being absorbed; essentially the ki becomes more active and can do more damage to the vampire instead of being properly consumed, thus vampires can't really drink from ki users unless if they are in a dying state; or in an otherwise weak state where they physically cannot draw ki properly. Some vampiric ki can be regenerated during the 'rest' period vampires may take, usually during the day, and in their coffins. . Blood from other immortals and mythic creatures also won't do so well, especially divine blood, as all of which and especially the latter are toxic and potentially fatal.
Those with ki are also able to resist many of the vampiric abilities, such as hypnosis. Ki-based/magic damage is harder to recover from for vampires; as vampiric regeneration acts a lot slower from the presence of foreign ki energy after some form of ki-based attack. As a result, vampires cannot instantly recover from fights involving nomads.
Aside from slowing his regeneration; offensive ki has no other adverse affects on vampires.
UV radiation burns and melts a vampire into nothing but steam and dust. Extensive proper protection is required if a vampire such as vlad needs to be out in daylight: Many avoid the risk altogether by staying dormant. Powerful sunscreen can slow the process to mild burnings initially. Vlad's cape, cowl, and sunhat are often well enough to travel out in the day: But he still has to be careful not to expose himself in the sun for any extensive activity.
As long as the heart is in tact, Vlad can regenerate. Severe destruction can take a while to regenerate fully, decapitation causes knockouts until it is regenerated.
Divine energy, holy objects, blessed water, and other such holy factors are all toxic to an undead fiend. Contact with holy water or otherwise divine material can cause a vampire to burn and melt. Holy objects like a cross may not cause immediate effects, but can drive a vampire off even if only being near a vampire.
Contrary to popular belief a mere wooden stake doesn't do much. The stake must be made from white oak, a tree that has an unnatural amount of potent ki even when chopped to simple materials. White oak in general has an adverse affect to vampires. This aversion inhibits their regeneration, similar to ki attacks, when struck by weapons made from white oak. Impalement by a white oak stake can be difficult to deal with for most vampires, and of course, a stake to the heart is immediately fatal.
Stakes can also be applied to corpses suspected of turning into vampire's by striking their heart. Doing so prevents the corpse from turning into a vampire. Hawthorne's trees also have a similar effect, due to it's holy connections, it inflicts minor burns.
Vampire's are essentially extremely allergic to garlic. The smell alone is overwhelming. Direct contact can give them mild burns.
A vampire cannot enter someone's home without permission. A simple denial or ignoring of a vampire's request to enter is all is necessary to keep a vampire out of one's private home.
Vampire's can't see their reflection. In fact in mirrors or even reflective water they lack any reflection of their person.
Rivers, streams, and other bodies of running water act as a physical ward that prevent vampires from crossing. By instinct their bodies refuse to move past or above a river if it is in sight or uncovered. If they are forced into such waters, they're bodies essentially become petrified into a stasis-like state; and will remain so unless if they are removed from the running currents. This does not apply to any form of moving water, such as rain drops or a shower. Large bodies of water with currents such as a huge lake or ocean do not necessarily apply either, though powerful currents can produce a similar effect if exposed to.
OTHER
What else?
Those that have been drained of blood completely by a vampire will have their empty veins flooded with a black-venom like substance. This is essentially the vampire curse. After dying, the venom is soaked into the dead corpse of the victim, and will revive them as an undead vampire. This curse only applies to humans. The venom while transferred still even if they aren't completely sucked dry, is usually destroyed by white blood cells naturally.
Vampires can also raise the dead as undead thralls. These are more or less like personal zombie servants, also known as ghouls. Ghouls are raised by vampires by removing the venom before it is fully absorbed into the corpse; preventing them from becoming vampires but still becoming raised as undead. Like a vampire they have supernatural strength, but lack some of the weaknesses such as sunlight or stakes. They are still undead and can't cross running water or deal with holy objects. They can't regenerate, but don't experience pain as they are essentially a sapient corpse. Ghouls do not need to feed, and are usually held as slaves by their vampiric masters. Ghouls are allowed however to obtain independence on rare occasions, usually by the death of their masters. Vampires can only control a limited amount of ghouls at a time, and are forced to either destroy or set free previous ghouls to gain more. Nomadic ghouls retain some of their skill and ki, though start out as a shadow of their former selves. If attempted on an already dead corpse, the result will not ressurect the body, but instead reanimate it as a mindless zombie.
Vlad is not only a wealthy individual, but owns several business including the 'Inside the Nomadics' magazine. In the past he also had his share of oil tycoons and a hand in other entertainment industries.
Fafnir is a surviving mythological being. In his original form, the dragon stood (on four legs) at a monstrous size, the like of which dwarfed only by the eldest of his kin. Though due to the nature of his seal his form had regressed significantly in size and power. The beast has two bull like horns and a third blade-like horn on the snout, as well as sharp spines that run down his back and below his jaw. Black plated scales armor his body along with the somewhat softer crimson scales of his underbelly. His eyes are crocodilian in nature, and are a piercing yellow. Black jagged teeth run the maw of the saurian-shaped head, with a forked tongue slithering within his mouth. A sail-like frill runs along his back between the sharp spines and can extend or recede in a display, tallest near the top of long snake-like neck. Long bat-like wings act as a third pair of limbs, all 3 pairs bear sharp 3-fingered claws.
In his usual, sealed form however, he is a massive 7'5" beige-skinned human with typical Aryan facial features and a muscular build. However he still retains some leaks of his inhuman nature in the form of his reptilian, glowing snake-like eyes(Like his dragon form, his eyes are yellow but glow a crimson firey light), a pair of leathery wings and a large, lumbering tail of black and red keeled scales and a barbed tip.
His armor is fully plated iron, from head to foot, that fully conceals him. The only parts of him not concealed is his tail. His wings are covered with a bird-like/angelic design in this armor, with some kind of flexible but plated material. The armor has various runes carved into it to attune with his Ki, as well as his large 6'0 lance he wields as a weapon, and a massive plated shield.
PERSONALITY TRAITS
Wise Observant Prideful Honorable Silent thinker Loner Vengeful Not-very-Tech-Savy(As well as just being not too familiar with most products of modern culture in general.) Stuck in the past, old way mentality. Long fuse( but should that fuse be lit it can provoke him into a much more animalistic or feral nature.)
BACKSTORY & MOTIVATION
The Awakening of Bahagara
The first dragon suppossedly was the Ur-Dragon, a great behemoth whose legends say it rose from a star that fell from the heavens. The original king of dragons, the Ur-Dragon had such immense ki that fueled with it's molten breath and mighty wings it forged storms that brought life to the first dragons. Though born of heat and ki, dragons are mostly biological creatures. Reptilian beasts that have been noted to have a wide variety of forms including small wyverns or the more spiritual eastern serpents. All dragons have an inherent affinity towards fire, thus even those with more exotic powers such as ice dragons have an unnatural immunity to heat and flame. Like their progenitor, dragons are born with immense power and ki, and are biologically immortal as they only grow more powerful as they age. Dragons are capable of natural reproduction, but due to their immortal lifespan it is an incredibly slow process, thus their population is only sustainable through the presence of an Ur-dragon. Dragons are often born with a lust for power and notorious greed. Though there are exceptions, most dragons as a result have a desire to wreak havoc and accumulate wealth and territory; both to other creatures and their own kin. It is this very nature that led to the inevitable downfall of the Ur-Dragon, as the first of it's spawn, the primordials, eventually grew to sizes that rivaled the mountain-sized progenitor.
Even after the Ur-Dragon's defeat, there can only be a single king, and thus, the primordials turned on each other. The calamity rendered the species into near-extinction; with Bahagarra, the last primordial, one of the few survivors. Filling the power vacuum, Bahagarra absorbed the powers of the Ur-Dragon to become the next Dragon King. The first storms he brewed were small and only yielded a few dragons, one of which being Fafnir himself. Weakened from the war Bahagarra went into a deep slumber while what little offspring he produced left to their own devices. Around the time of the middle ages, the ancient dragon awoke abruptly when an unknown adventurer disturbed his resting site; Starved of destruction and fury, the still weakened Bahagarra breathed wicked tempests that spawned an army of dragons, which began to spread along the globe to satisfy their destructive urges. Humanity was plagued with an onslaught of dragon attacks. It was during this time when Fafnir suffered the defeat that inspired him to change. Meanwhile, a legendary warrior (Seshat) went to stop the dragon apocalypse by confronting the dragon king himself. A great battle ensued, and the warrior returned successfully with the slaying of the dragon king. With the defeat of the Dragon King, the dragons stomped spawning. Most were inevitably slain, some tried to fill the power vacuum (and failed, others went into hiding or into a deep slumber, waiting for the return of a king.
Fafnir was once a great dragon of malice, fueled by a thirst for utter destruction and power. As if by instinct his feral nature laid ruin to villages and kingdoms of old. The first spawn of Bahagarra he was unrivaled by his generation and those that came after, and was one of the most active scourges to humanity. Yet one brave and mighty knight of one, now lost, kingdom had finally defeated him and ended his centuries of terror. The knight's birth name was Gabriel Sigurd, though dubbed as Arch-angel Gabriel by his kingdom; owed to his unnatural and incredible power and skill, as if he were some divine instrument, and the angelic wings adorned from his armor, which granted him flight. He had not only humbled the monster in his defeat, but his code of honor and mercy towards the beast, an unusual gesture of kindness towards a monster that had previously bore no sympathy, inspired Fafnir hence fourth. The beast followed the knight's example, served the same kingdom with up most loyalty, and began to become intrigued and respectful of the martial prowess of the mortals once trained to slay him. Eventually, he abandoned his form through arcane rites, and convinced a then retired Sir Sigurd to teach him his martial power. When Sigurd inevitable fell to the mortal fate of all humans, the immortal dragon carried on his mentor's legacy. Taking his enchanted armaments, lance, armor, and shield, and even his surname, he continued to serve the kingdom and passed down his ways to the knights and soldiers of that realm, and the wandering warriors that sought his teachings. However his most proud hobby was seeking worthy opponents for the sport of combat. Whether it be a monster, a warrior, or something otherwordly; ever since his battle with Gabriel, Fafnir has acquired the taste of honorable combat. Always seeking the next opponent that could replicate the same feelings he felt in that original battle, never truly satisfied, but eager to continue. The teachings of Sigurd never left him, both in skill and in morality. As an eternal respect for his long deceased master, the knight retains the ideologies of the honorable and chivalrous knight his mentor once was. He defended the kingdom from others of his kin, until the dragons stopped spawning with Bahagarra's defeat.
But all things must come to an end. The kingdom he once served inevitably became lost to time, the ruins of its once proud structures sunken beneath water and dirt. With little purpose left, the ancient being sunk into a depression, and slumbered for the centuries to come. Finding solice in the tomb of his progenitors, and for that time, guarding it so that no one would reawaken the disasters that may plague the world again. One day, amidst his ancient slumber, he had a dream. A dream of his master, a dream of promise. Dreams that filled the forgotten soldier with hope. He longed for that thrill of battle that was lost to him. Such motivation stirred him from his slumber, and the primordial knight rose from the dirt and sea to witness the new world. So much had changed, there was so much to learn. But more importantly, there were fighters to find, warriors to challenge. Though he may had lost his master and his kingdom, he still had one purpose left in life, and that was the thrill of battle.
FIGHTING STYLE & ABILITIES
FIGHTING STYLE
With the exception of being somewhat more nimble Fafnir is not as strong, nor as in tune with his ki in this false image, however he makes up for that weakness with the vast amount of generations he spent honing a finesse with weaponry. His primary tactics use a mixture of Ki power and his trusty lance, one that served him throughout generations. In unarmed combat he lacks the finesse he wields with his lance, and thus his kicks and punches, though powerful, are slow and crude. Such attacks lack the proper speed or efficiency those more experienced with hand-to-hand combat possess. His 'style' in which case usually involves excessive use of using his weight and size to body slam, elbow, or grapple enemies with his crushing strength and weight. He also utilizes his tail to whip or even stab at his foes as a spear if he feels such strategies are warranted. Though capable of flight in his sealed form, he's a slow glider and can only effectively 'dash' with leaping or landing. Thus doesn't have any real aerial combat technique.
He is no stranger to pain and is more then willing to take injuries so long as it means he can strike back. While winning is fine, he is more focused on the thrill of the battle itself and chooses to prolong the fight if possible. While mercy isn't strictly enforced in his honor code, he has no qualms offering that same kindness he was dealt when defeated by Joseph.
Fafnir in his humanoid form takes the time to stay mostly defensive and study his opponents carefully, using what energy is necessary to protect himself and keeping the flow of battle steady so that he can conserve the rest for when he feels the opportune moment to unleash it. He often plays to what his opponent offers, even if his foe is weaker then Fafnir, Fafnir rarely goes anything beyond his foe's own level in that case, in the start of that fight. This is for both to take pleasure in the battle itself, but to once again, take time to study his opponent.
If he ever sheds his mortal form however, Fafnir's fighting style is a u-turn from his original style. Without any finesse or weaponry, He relies solely on ki-power and physical capabilities his form offers. Just as the Dragon-Form will often go all out at the very start of his transformation, his instincts become much more of primal fury, at some points even lacking self-control with how carried away his predatory nature takes a hold of him. For this reason he only uses his true-form as a last resort tactic, or if someone really infuriates him. In most scenarios he'd much rather lose in his mortal form then to win in his true form, unless if that fight mattered more beyond his entertainment and honor.
SPECIAL MOVES & TECHNIQUES
■ Fury Jab
Fafnir imbues his lance with flames and unleashes a fast, multi-thrust attack with his lance. Unless if he has the intention to kill, the thrusts will usually be aimed to impale the arms and lower torso, and/or any equipment the target may be holding. The blade is typically outlined with a trail of flames
■ Grapple Bolt
Fafnir thrusts his hand forwards, and summons a whip-like tendril of electricity that acts as a tether-grab. Pulling him to whatever the bolt connects with or dragging it back to him.
■ Grapple Bolt
Fafnir thrusts his hand forwards, and summons a whip-like tendril of electricity that acts as a tether-grab. Pulling him to whatever the bolt connects with or dragging it back to him.
■ Shield Hammer
With shield equipped, Fafnir swings his great shield with heavy force to attempt to both stagger and disarm an opponent in melee.
■ Scalelord's Conquest
Fafnir Soars into the air then lands down upon his opponent with high velocity, down thrusting his lance to either impale the foe from above or to thrust it through the ground, in either scenario the landing produces an electric and pressure blast of ki around both him and the weapon
■ Burning Honor
Fafnir becomes engulfed in flames, as if the fire was an additional set of armor. Its brightness can also obscure his figure making long-range precision based attacks more likely to miss him, in addition to slowly cooking those that are too close for comfort. Though extended use can eat away at his ki reserve.
■ Disarming Grasp
If unarmed, Fafnir can channel ki into his hand to create a powerful electric charge or blast of fire, which will either be used as a simple, powerful punch, or tip grip/choke hold an opponent at the right opportunity to deliver the full voltage(or heat and force if he uses flames instead.) of that energy.
■ Thunder Spear
Fafnir can imbue his lance with electric ki to deliver a devastating blow rivaling the power of a lightning bolt. Alternatively, with a steady aim, he can abandon his weapon by tossing it forward channeled heavily with ki. The thrown lance takes the form of a lightning bolt as it blasts the surface of whatever it impacts with great radiant voltage and force.
■ Rising Fire
Fafnir and slashes or raises his lance in a sweeping motion, and a wave of flames spawn from the ground and rise up at an angle facing away from him with great force and heat. Alternatively Fafnir can use this skill without his weapon by slamming his fist on the earth below him, which creates the same firey explosion directly below and around him instead.
■ Valor of the scales
Shield raised, a crimson aura extends from the shield, widening it’s defensive range. The aura shield can withstand some damage, but will shatter with sufficient stress(Half the strength of a grenade). Ineffective for melee as it faces one direction and can't counter attack while it is up.
■ Dragon's Blaze
After taking a deep breathe, Fafnir can use his ki to spew a short blast of pressurized air and flames from his mouth and wings at a range of 4 meters. The attack is more focused on knock back rather then heat or damage.
■ Scale’s Blessing
Raising his shield, Fafnir can buff an individual other then himself, granting them temporary regeneration, ki amplification, stamina recovery, and ease of pain. The buff lasts for few minutes, and can only be used once per 24 hours. Upon recieving this buff, previously existing wounds will mostly heal including gaping holes, damaged organs, and broken bones.
■ Constricting Catch
Utilizing his prehensile tail, Fafnir can lash it out at his foes from around or below him. In this technique, he uses his tail to grapple via wrapping around his opponent's arm, torso, or leg; Usually then resulting in him tossing that opponent aside.
SUPER MOVES
■ Tactical Swipe
Fafnir channels his ki to the lance's blade, giving it twice as much reach as well as a combination of electric and fire based ki, though the motion itself is slow the concentrated power is designed to break someone's guard and/or armor, if not a killing blow. Swinging or thrusting his charged up blade will also create a crescent shaped wave of pressurized flames and electric current, creating a projectile that is not as powerful as being hit with the melee attack itself.
■ Raging Dragon's Soul
Fafnir summons an oriental dragon made entirely of fire based ki; willed to charge and either smash or engulf a target with intense flames. Though the dragon's length can extend it's only half a body, with Fafnir's body being attached to where the dragon's lower half would be. The dragon disperses shortly after its initial attack. During it's summon, Fafnir is immobile.
■ Unmasking the seal
Fafnir reveals his true form, a monstrous, ancient dragon.
Although Fafnir is immune to heat-related damage in both his mortal shell and true form and being fairly durable with both a tough body and tremendous natural ki, his superhuman resilience is increased further with scales (except the underbelly) that have the durability to rival steel even without his ki. In flight, the form can be quiet fast and nimble in the air despite his size and weight. Claws and maw that can crush stone and metal with ease, as well as a powerful tail equipped with a sharp spine at the tip to simulate a spear. The dragon can also breathe a torrential spray of molten fire or bolts of black lightning from his maw. However, due to Fafnir having spent most of his days now in his sealed form, the seal had grown a tight lock on his true nature. Fafnir can only transform into a 'dwarf' (Approximately 50 feet long.) and weakened state of his original form for a brief time of 5 minutes with a few hours of cooldown time.
WEAKNESSES & LIMITS
Worst of worlds: In most situations, Fafnir starts out slow in his sealed form, often trying to fight at an 'equal' footing at his opponents. Weaker opponents as a result have a better chance of beating him, as does stronger opponents that he can't adapt to in time. In the rare occasion where Fafnir has no honor or respect for an opponent, he will go all out and transform, instead becoming reckless and easy to tire out. Either way, it isn't too difficult to strategies against.
Glutton for punishment: His bloodlust for battle and refusal to dishonor his opponents often lead him to purposely taking hits. Usually he takes advantages of these blows to counter attack, however the sport he finds in testing the strength or force of his opponent's attacks can often give him situations with damage that he could have prevented.
Prideful Vengeance: Despite his worked up tolerance, those that damage his pride can potentially tear through his wisdom and better judgement if they know what buttons to push. Insulting his honor is one sure way to enrage him. Though he is often humble, he still carries with him a sense of pride of his own power partially fueled by the innate, natural arrogance of a dragon.
Imperfect Armor: In his dragon form, the underbelly is soft and vulnerable to attack.
Cold-blooded: Fafnir does best in hot environments. Exposed to cold conditions or cryogenic based attacks can weaken his endurance and overall performance.
OTHER
His armaments; Shield, Lance, and Armor, are enchanted and it will be restored after a day to his arsenal if they are damaged or destroyed. Out of combat he can summon and unsummon these equipment's at will.
The mountain where the original Ur-Dragon arrived upon, deep within the rock lies a vast cavern lit by massive illuminating crystals. molten rock, and pools of sparkling water. Surrounding the walls of the massive hole is the skeleton of Bahagarrah, his head encircled by a sacred marble shrine. Surrounding the shrine are a grand accumulation of gold and treasure. This is the home of Fafnir, the tomb of his progenitors and place he guards when he isn't about experiencing the new world. Within the shrine lies the soul of the Ur-Dragon, a firey vortex of ki that stagnates from the Ur-Dragon's soul, passed down to Bahagarra, and now lays masterless. If one were to survive absorbing such power, they'd bring back the age of dragons by becoming the next Ur-Dragon.
An undead dragon; Kilgarrah Zmey, slumbers within this site, acting as the sole defender of this chasm when Fafnir is not around.
A new challenger approaches:
Vlad sucks the competition!
Vlad Relapmi Ruthven
⦋ ??? || ??? || Male ⦌
APPEARANCE & PERSONALITY
As a typical vampire, Vlad has pale white skin and glowing crimson eyes. His hair is a raven black and his face sports a hint of stubble. The fangs are immediately noticable. His physique his tall and lean, standing at 6'5".
Vlad makes sure to always dress appropriately. He often wears some form of formal attire, usually a black suit with a red tie. Sometimes he wears an overly large-brimmed sunhat, and of course, always wearing a long black and red cape with a cowl.
Vlad usually has a facade of grace. He is a formal gentleman; often polite, or tries to be. Regardless, underneath that facade is a chaotic individual who certainly has no qualms with feeding off of the living, or messing with the wrong people. Immortality has made life, well, boring, and Vlad often entertains himself with mischief; sometimes harmless. There is an obvious, and perhaps, annoying sense of pride and confidence that Vlad always carries. Overconfident in both his own nature as 'the prince of the night', as well as considering himself to be a man of high class and wealth. Due to this Vlad looks upon less fortunate soul with (almost) a sense of pity. Mortals too. Almost, but, not enough for him to make a difference.
Being a man of dignity, Vlad distastes getting himself dirty. Whether it be combat, or merely feeding, Redrum tries to be as clean and as professional as possible.
When he is expected to duel or to otherwise get busy, he will often wear his 'duelist uniform' which is just a glorified black and gold fencer uniform (Which is also sun proof):
The reporter walked into the mansion, taking nervous steps on the clean tiled floor. The cameraman behind her was just as cautious. As they walked, they couldn't help but notice the servants around them. Maids and butlers, all with a lifeless expression; dead eyes watching them as they moved further. The room was cold, and the motionless servants didn't help to lift the atmosphere.
"Are you sure this isn't a prank?" Said the cameraman, having attempted to turn his fear into frustration.
"He gave us an invitation in person, remember? It's un-" She snapped back, but was cut off as a sudden motion caught both of their attention. Before them, between the double staircase of the foyer, rose a swirling mass that had seemed to swoop down on the floor from the shadows. Taking shape from the swirl of motion, later revealed to be his cape, was the man of the hour himself.
"Greetings, welcome to my humble abode." Vlad bowed politely before his guests, dressed in his typical evening suit. "I hope my loyal subjects haven't bothered you." He said, his voice was almost enchanting, yet there in lied waited something sinister in his tone; like a serpent.
He snapped his fingers, and the handful of maids and butlers suddenly came to life. They seemed to carry on with their duties; moving furniture and decor, preparing drinks, and the like. Set up by several servants were a pair of expensive, decorative chairs with fine silk cushions, and a likewise rich couch of a black dyed fabric. Vlad had taken a seat on the sofa. Just as the reporter took a seat on one of the chairs, a maid approach to set up a tray with what appeared to be freshly served snacks; A glass of wine and miniature sandwiches.
The cameraman turned on his camera to film the two.
"So, what brings you to my estate, you'll have to forgive my poor memory."
"We um." She turned to the tray briefly to decide on whether taking a bite or not, before refusing. "Well you said you would tell the world where you came from, why you're here. Fans are dying to know after all, what's your story?"
He chuckled. "Fans? Story?" He waved his hand way in a dismissal motion.
"Oh you mortals and your, strange fascination with romanticizing monsters nowadays. 300 years ago you wouldn't see that kind of opinion out there." He sighed. "Ah but those days are over I'm afraid, very well, I shall tell you what I can remember.." He waved his hand in a dramatic motion as he began;
"You see, I was born into a royal family of, well, a kingdom of sorts. The name? I couldn't recall." He laughed, amusing himself. "Those kinds of details don't matter anymore anyway, I know it doesn't exist anymore. Anyway; so, of course, this small little civilization there, I think it was somewhere in east Europe; we were...let's say not the most liked kind of rulers out there. Sure, we didn't needlessly kill anyone. But there were complaints from the commoners about corruption, wickedness, greed, what have you. And sure, I suppose those complaints were...not far from the truth. I can't remember my father, I knew he was there, I knew what he did, but well; I suppose I just didn't care enough for him to remember. My mother, well, she was the one who spoiled me when I was a young one, I remember that face well enough. My sister, well...I suppose I have her to thank to be where I am today.
You see, I suppose it all started when famine struck our lands. Rain hadn't fall, the soil had become ill, and well; life was miserable. For them, not us, of course. While they starved outside, poor and with little food, we hoarded the land's boon. Fresh pig, mutton, mm...I almost missed that taste." He trailed off for a moment.
"Mr. Dalv?"
"Oh, pardon me."
"Is that your real name?"
"What is?"
"Dalv."
"Oh, no." He chuckled, waving away her thought. "No, my real name was far less suitable I suppose. I abandoned it sometime ago."
"Oh, well..."
Vlad took the advantage of her silence to continue. "Where was I? Oh yes, you see; They didn't like that fact too much, the commoners. They decided to have a riot of sorts. Pitchforks and torches, all that nonsense. Of course the guards initially had their uses, but I guess many of them joined the crowd since I, well, I suppose my father forgot to treat them well." He snickered. At the time I was about as old as, well, how you see me now. But still, I wasn't in charge. No I'd be on merry strolls enjoying my privileges and flirting with the local beauties. My carefree life was taken away by my reckless family."
"So you resent them?" She asked.
"Heavens no." He once again made a dismissal hand gesture, scoffing at the idea. "If it wasn't for them I wouldn't be here now. You see, because of this predicament, we were..desperate. My sister, now, I didn't know what she was up to. But it was revealed on that day that she was well versed in the occult. Now, I don't know if she was a witch, but I'm sure on any other day she could have been burned for that fact. Anyway, with her connections and my...father's..." He seemed to hesitate for a moment, a flash of anger briefly in his expression, as if a sudden memory popped into view. He played it off with a brief snicker. "My father had no idea what he was doing when he thrashed his daughter about saving them. The price she insisted was too high. Well, she couldn't do anything against an angry and desperate man losing power; so she had summoned a vampire."
A smile curled on his lips, revealing his fangs. "Shocker, I know."
"But it gets better. You see, the vampire in question was happy to deal with our little problem; But my father gave him a..well a bit too stern of an attitude. He didn't know his place. So our little blood-sucking friend wasn't in the best of mood to help us. More importantly, it was a bloody vampire; I mean who the hell.." He sighed. "I'm getting off topic. Anyway, our blood-sucking hero explains to us that he will grant our wish if we are willing to sacrifice one of our own. Sure enough, immediately without consent, my father picks out my sister. Now, as the vampire explained that he must literally stand his own damned child in the back; I was well...I didn't like that much really. Mother well, I'm sure she didn't want that, but she didn't interfere. So, I picked up a decorative sword from the wall, and used it to strike my father's back while he was busy on my sibling. Of course he was shocked, as was I, that was my first....kill. So to speak. While all this was happening, mind you, the revolt was reaching our doors. The vampire, having accepted the father as the sacrifice, took to dealing with the first wave of an angry mob. I don't remember the details, I recall my mother screaming; going into a corner. I remember my father trying to mouth something, struggling through rage and shock. 'Course I don't remember what he said. What I do remember, was my sister. Upon seeing the massacre she tried to stop what she had summoned. She drew a knife and stabbed the vampire's chest. I think she was going for the heart, but apparently she missed. The dagger didn't seem to go through his flesh that much either...Anyway, the angry fiend turned around and gutted her like a pig.
Now you can, imagine the shock of those events. The trauma, and all. I completely forgot who that monster was with how...well I'm not sure how to describe how I felt. It's been so long since I felt such emotion, and it was too complicated to wave it away as angry. No it was mixed with all..sorts..of delicious emotions. Rage, Fear, Shock, terror, panic....Ah, yes a lot of terrible things going on off at once. It made me dumb enough to attack the thing, and obviously my efforts were in vain. At this point most of the riot had realized what was happening after their first wave had been massacred, and began to scream in terror back to the village. The chaos had set the castle ablaze, I remember that, because I distinctly recall the fire twisting light and shadows around this...monstrous figure. It towered over me, scoffed, and I believe it bit my neck. It had to have had, because if he didn't, I wouldn't be here. Regardless, There was no period I remember in between; like sleeping and waking. I awoke, to find myself surrounded in a closed space of wood. It didn't take long to realize I had been buried alive. Except, I wasn't really alive, now was I?" He grinned again at the woman, giving her a wink with his crimson eyes.
The gesture sent a shiver down her spine, but she continued. "That..that must been when you turned then."
"Correct." He responded. "My skin was pale, I had no pulse; I was cold, but not..really. Numb perhaps. Anyway, I freaked out and struggled for a bit. Eventually I discovered the unnatural strength I had which allowed me to claw my way out of the coffin and the earth. I awoke in the graveyard, and returned to my castle. It had been well, 3 days since I died. According to what I learned. My subjects were shocked to see me. I was more shocked, to see my mother's, the queen's, battered corpse hanging from the front of the castle gate; sweet dry blood staining the stone bricks. Well they called us a monster in life, so I decided to give them what they said I was."
His grin faded back into a smile, though it still felt sinister to the woman, who now nervously took a sip of the wine. "Well, the few that I liked I turned into the loyal subjects you see around this manner. Eternal like me, but not quite vampires. Pity they don't have any free will to entertain me with."
"Wow that is um...fascinating, Mr. Dalv. But why are you here now, so far away from home?"
"Money, fame, social status. Trivial things mind you, and of course, living in a damp old castle isn't really a lifestyle fit for a prince, is it?" He said as he slowly moved off from the couch.
The woman was speechless as she was staring into Vlad's eyes. Like it was some kind of trance. The cameraman noticed this, and turned his camera off. He tried to snap her awake, shouting "hey!" But our dashing young vampire had closed the distance between them in unnatural speed. His cold white fingers gripped the man's throat, cutting his voice off from any further sound. "Shhh.." He whispered as his nails elongated into claws, drawing blood from small cuts that were made on his neck from the transformation of the fingers. Drawing his fangs, he bit into the cameraman's neck, who dropped his camera from the attack. He was sucked dry, while the woman remained in a trance. "Hmm.." He said as he dropped the corpse. "Well, I think this will make a fine addition to the auditorium. What do you think...what was your name again Darling?"
"Mary." She said in a tranced voice, as if she was talking in her sleep.
"Ah, a pleasure to make your acquaintance my dear." He spoke, before taking a bite out of her neck as well.
FIGHTING STYLE & ABILITIES
FIGHTING STYLE
Vlad as a high class gentleman, doesn't like to get dirty or expend to much effort. However he is not opposed to a proper duel or challenge. Wielding a rather long rapier which he has dubbed 'The Impaler', Vlad strikes with swift jabs while sustaining a comfortable distance between himself and his opponent. Drawing blood, usually from his foe, allows him to use his vampiric powers further to his advantage.
His vampiric physiology has given him numerous supernatural advantages. While the vampiric ki he possesses is in itself relatively weak; he is still unnaturally strong and durable. He can regenerate effectively (So long as his heart isn't destroyed). Able to see in the dark, possessing a strong sense of smell, and being tied to necromancy are all traits of a vampire Vlad can exploit. His 'art' practices mostly on blood manipulation. Blood that has been separated from a body can be manipulated into various ways by the moves below. This blood can be his own blood or another's, but if it is an outside source it cannot be manipulated while connected to one's body and ki. Meaning the blood used must be outside the body and drawn out such as a puddle of blood or on his sword. This form of blood manipulation is fueled and controlled by his vampiric ki.
SPECIAL MOVES & TECHNIQUES
■ [Vampiric Mist]
[Vlad turns into an immobile body of mist; becoming temporarily intangible and immune to attacks, but cannot move during this state.]
■ [Bat Form]
[Vlad can turn into a small, fast vampire bat. While still having blood sucking fangs he is mostly defenseless in this form. But his small size and swift speed makes him a difficult target in this form. Best used for transportation or evading attacks.]
■ [Blood Fire]
[Vlad can cause blood to boil into a burning liquid, or even explode rapidly into a powerful burst.]
■ [Crimson Blade]
[With blood staining his rapier, Vlad can extend and freeze the blood into a longer ranged blade. The exact shape of this blood sword/weapon can be determined by him.]
■ [Blood spear]
[Vlad can project a bolt composed of semi frozen blood either from a portion of crimson blade, a nearby blood puddle, or from his own body. The resulting projectile is both sharp and fast, like a crossbow bolt.]
■ [Ghastly Presence]
[Vlad allow's himself reveal or suppress his own fiendish presence at will. When revealed, his presence makes the surrounding area drop in temperature, often accompanied by shadows twists around him or letting the wind howl. Animals will often either go quiet at his presence, or freak out by barking/growling. Small open flames can be put out as well by this ability.]
■ [Mage Hand]
[An incorporeal hand can be summoned at will by Vlad. This hand acts as an independant, floating hand. Able to lift, carry, pull, and push objects. It can't attack by itself, but can throw objects or wield weapons. The hand's range is limited by 30 meters around Vlad]
■ [Blood Snare]
[A tendril or multiple tendrils form from either Vlad's own blood, a blood puddle, or from his crimson blade. The tendril aims to wrap around a subject to trap them in place, and is free to pull or move trapped victims if successful. The tendrils may also throw these victims, or instead act to slam into said victim instead of trying to grab them.]
■ [Vampiric Waltz]
[Vlad expends more of his vampiric ki to apply his undead speed. Turning himself into almost a blur of speed, Vlad will attempt to disorient his opponent by taking three stride-like side steps, which cover a large distance with only a motion trail. In between each step is a rhytmic pause. Then he performs a fourth motion; either perform a counter attack with his rapier, or retreat into a nearby hiding place.]
■ [Blood Wave]
[From his own blood/body, a nearby puddle, or through crimson blade, Vlad can generate a crescent shaped wave of blood, which is sharp enough to act as a bladed projectile.
■ [Duelist Flurry]
[A rapid thrust attack with his rapier, aiming to both disorient his opponent with a flurry of attacks with the hopes of at least landing one hit to draw blood.]
■ [Vampiric Hypnosis]
By staring deeply into his eyes, and requiring activation, Vlad can put people under hypnosis, and manipulate them under his will temporarily. This requires sustained eye contact, and most commands can only be sustained and obeyed by remaining in that trance. Subconscious orders can also be implanted to perform later, but this is harder to pull off if they have a strong will. Hypnosis doesn't work with people that can use their ki, or if they have a strong enough will power. Breaking eye contact for more then 5 seconds ends the trance. A sustained trance of 2 minutes is required to implant a subconscious command.]
SUPER MOVES
■ [Blood Storm]
[Vlad unleashes a flurry of blood spears in rapid fire.]
■ [Midnight Swarm]
[Vlad conjures hundreds of bats that swarm their opponent with fangs and clawed feet. The bats are a bit more monstrous looking then the average vampire bat. They are the size of fruit bats, with long claws for feet and canine-rowed teeth in their maws. Blood red eyes and slick wolf-like fur. Being slightly stronger then the average bat, they are potentially dangerous, but not too difficult to kill individually. The swarm de-spawns after 1 minute.]
■ [Life Drain]
[With a tight grip of an opponent, Vlad unleashed a torrent of undead, necromatic magic. Opponents that are mortal and biologically will have their skin burst in bloody lesions and mild decay/rot under contact from Vlad's palm. Both their life force and ki are drained by this move, temporarily weakening them and making the pain of their injuries much more unbearable then it would otherwise.]
WEAKNESSES & LIMITS
Since vampire's are undead, they're ki is not entirelyself-sustainable. Instead it is drawn from the blood of their victims, and absorbed to be stored and help fuel their false life. Only minute amounts of ki is restored through their death-like 'slumber', which is most effective when sleeping in their own native soil. Since vampiric ki is absorbed from the life energy of blood itself, it is often attributed with a blood-colored tint of hue when exposed. Those that are able to control ki are more difficult to drink from, as their blood can 'fight back' when being absorbed; essentially the ki becomes more active and can do more damage to the vampire instead of being properly consumed, thus vampires can't really drink from ki users unless if they are in a dying state; or in an otherwise weak state where they physically cannot draw ki properly. Some vampiric ki can be regenerated during the 'rest' period vampires may take, usually during the day, and in their coffins. . Blood from other immortals and mythic creatures also won't do so well, especially divine blood, as all of which and especially the latter are toxic and potentially fatal.
Those with ki are also able to resist many of the vampiric abilities, such as hypnosis. Ki-based/magic damage is harder to recover from for vampires; as vampiric regeneration acts a lot slower from the presence of foreign ki energy after some form of ki-based attack. As a result, vampires cannot instantly recover from fights involving nomads.
Aside from slowing his regeneration; offensive ki has no other adverse affects on vampires.
UV radiation burns and melts a vampire into nothing but steam and dust. Extensive proper protection is required if a vampire such as vlad needs to be out in daylight: Many avoid the risk altogether by staying dormant. Powerful sunscreen can slow the process to mild burnings initially. Vlad's cape, cowl, and sunhat are often well enough to travel out in the day: But he still has to be careful not to expose himself in the sun for any extensive activity.
As long as the heart is in tact, Vlad can regenerate. Severe destruction can take a while to regenerate fully, decapitation causes knockouts until it is regenerated.
Divine energy, holy objects, blessed water, and other such holy factors are all toxic to an undead fiend. Contact with holy water or otherwise divine material can cause a vampire to burn and melt. Holy objects like a cross may not cause immediate effects, but can drive a vampire off even if only being near a vampire.
Contrary to popular belief a mere wooden stake doesn't do much. The stake must be made from white oak, a tree that has an unnatural amount of potent ki even when chopped to simple materials. White oak in general has an adverse affect to vampires. This aversion inhibits their regeneration, similar to ki attacks, when struck by weapons made from white oak. Impalement by a white oak stake can be difficult to deal with for most vampires, and of course, a stake to the heart is immediately fatal.
Stakes can also be applied to corpses suspected of turning into vampire's by striking their heart. Doing so prevents the corpse from turning into a vampire. Hawthorne's trees also have a similar effect, due to it's holy connections, it inflicts minor burns.
Vampire's are essentially extremely allergic to garlic. The smell alone is overwhelming. Direct contact can give them mild burns.
A vampire cannot enter someone's home without permission. A simple denial or ignoring of a vampire's request to enter is all is necessary to keep a vampire out of one's private home.
Vampire's can't see their reflection. In fact in mirrors or even reflective water they lack any reflection of their person.
Rivers, streams, and other bodies of running water act as a physical ward that prevent vampires from crossing. By instinct their bodies refuse to move past or above a river if it is in sight or uncovered. If they are forced into such waters, they're bodies essentially become petrified into a stasis-like state; and will remain so unless if they are removed from the running currents. This does not apply to any form of moving water, such as rain drops or a shower. Large bodies of water with currents such as a huge lake or ocean do not necessarily apply either, though powerful currents can produce a similar effect if exposed to.
OTHER
What else?
Those that have been drained of blood completely by a vampire will have their empty veins flooded with a black-venom like substance. This is essentially the vampire curse. After dying, the venom is soaked into the dead corpse of the victim, and will revive them as an undead vampire. This curse only applies to humans. The venom while transferred still even if they aren't completely sucked dry, is usually destroyed by white blood cells naturally.
Vampires can also raise the dead as undead thralls. These are more or less like personal zombie servants, also known as ghouls. Ghouls are raised by vampires by removing the venom before it is fully absorbed into the corpse; preventing them from becoming vampires but still becoming raised as undead. Like a vampire they have supernatural strength, but lack some of the weaknesses such as sunlight or stakes. They are still undead and can't cross running water or deal with holy objects. They can't regenerate, but don't experience pain as they are essentially a sapient corpse. Ghouls do not need to feed, and are usually held as slaves by their vampiric masters. Ghouls are allowed however to obtain independence on rare occasions, usually by the death of their masters. Vampires can only control a limited amount of ghouls at a time, and are forced to either destroy or set free previous ghouls to gain more. Nomadic ghouls retain some of their skill and ki, though start out as a shadow of their former selves. If attempted on an already dead corpse, the result will not ressurect the body, but instead reanimate it as a mindless zombie.
Vlad is not only a wealthy individual, but owns several business including the 'Inside the Nomadics' magazine. In the past he also had his share of oil tycoons and a hand in other entertainment industries.
Quick to note though, as I've introduced a sort of 'lore' for dragons in general. Wanted to know how Selphia fits into it or if despite superficially being similar his 'draconic lineage' is entirely separate?
To summarize, Fafnir's Dragon lore is a big cosmic dragon crashed into earth from a meteor and starts spawning dragons out of storms (basically mtg.) Then the Ur-Dragon was killed by its first creations that out-grew it, following the dragon Bahagarra becoming the next Ur-Dragon and spawning new dragons until he was slayed and as a result overtime dragons became nearly extinct.
Its possible for dragons to reproduce naturally too, though growth is slower and this results in 'broods' a sort of lineage that retain similar traits/abilities (like the zmey lineage that I'm making an NPC for.)
@La Fleur Any room for some muscle? Big old simple minded orc Fire-breathing space lizard? Or does a biological breathe weapon fall under the no powers deal?
Here is my updated Fafnir sheet, I'll work on Vlad next.
⦋ N/A || N/A || Male ⦌
APPEARANCE & PERSONALITY
APPEARANCE
Fafnir is a surviving mythological being. In his original form, the dragon stands (on four legs) at 16 feet in height, 34 feet long, and a wingspan of 28 feet. The beast has two bull like horns and a third blade-like horn on the snout, as well as sharp spines that run down his back and below his jaw. Black plated scales armor his body along with the somewhat softer crimson scales of his underbelly. His eyes are crocodilian in nature, and are a piercing yellow. Black jagged teeth run the maw of the saurian-shaped head, with a forked tongue slithering within his mouth. A sail-like frill runs along his back between the sharp spines and can extend or recede in a display, tallest near the top of long snake-like neck. Long bat-like wings act as a third pair of limbs, all 3 pairs bear sharp 3-fingered claws.
In his usual, sealed form however, he is a massive 6'11" beige-skinned human with typical Aryan facial features and a muscular build. However he still retains some leaks of his inhuman nature in the form of his reptilian, glowing snake-like eyes, a pair of wings and a large, lumbering tail of black and red keeled scales and a barbed tip.
His armor is fully plated iron, from head to foot, that fully conceals him. The only parts of him not concealed are his wings and his tail. The armor has various runes carved into it to attune with his Ki, as well as his large 6'0 lance he wields as a weapon, and a massive plated shield.
PERSONALITY TRAITS
Wise Observant Prideful Honorable Silent thinker Loner Vengeful Not-very-Tech-Savy(As well as just being not too familiar with most products of modern culture in general.) Stuck in the past, old way mentality. Long fuse( but should that fuse be lit it can provoke him into a much more animalistic or feral nature.)
BACKSTORY & MOTIVATION
The Awakening of Bahagara
The first dragon suppossedly was the Ur-Dragon, a great behemoth whose legends say it rose from a star that fell from the heavens. The original king of dragons, the Ur-Dragon had such immense ki that fueled with it's molten breath and mighty wings it forged storms that brought life to the first dragons. Though born of heat and ki, dragons are mostly biological creatures. Reptilian beasts that have been noted to have a wide variety of forms including small wyverns or the more spiritual eastern serpents. All dragons have an inherent affinity towards fire, thus even those with more exotic powers such as ice dragons have an unnatural immunity to heat and flame. Like their progenitor, dragons are born with immense power and ki, and are biologically immortal as they only grow more powerful as they age. Dragons are capable of natural reproduction, but due to their immortal lifespan it is an incredibly slow process, thus their population is only sustainable through the presence of an Ur-dragon. Dragons are often born with a lust for power and notorious greed. Though there are exceptions, most dragons as a result have a desire to wreak havoc and accumulate wealth and territory; both to other creatures and their own kin. It is this very nature that led to the inevitable downfall of the Ur-Dragon, as the first of it's spawn, the primordials, eventually grew to sizes that rivaled the mountain-sized progenitor.
Even after the Ur-Dragon's defeat, there can only be a single king, and thus, the primordials turned on each other. The calamity rendered the species into near-extinction; with Bahagarra, the last primordial, one of the few survivors. Filling the power vacuum, Bahagarra absorbed the powers of the Ur-Dragon to become the next Dragon King. The first storms he brewed were small and only yielded a few dragons, one of which being Fafnir himself. Weakened from the war Bahagarra went into a deep slumber while what little offspring he produced left to their own devices. Around the time of the middle ages, the ancient dragon awoke abruptly when an unknown adventurer disturbed his resting site; Starved of destruction and fury, the still weakened Bahagarra breathed wicked tempests that spawned an army of dragons, which began to spread along the globe to satisfy their destructive urges. Humanity was plagued with an onslaught of dragon attacks. It was during this time when Fafnir suffered the defeat that inspired him to change. Meanwhile, a legendary warrior (Seshat) went to stop the dragon apocalypse by confronting the dragon king himself. A great battle ensued, and the warrior returned successfully with the slaying of the dragon king. With the defeat of the Dragon King, the dragons stomped spawning. Most were inevitably slain, some tried to fill the power vacuum (and failed, others went into hiding or into a deep slumber, waiting for the return of a king.
Fafnir was once a great dragon of malice, fueled by a thirst for utter destruction and power. As if by instinct his feral nature laid ruin to villages and kingdoms of old. The first spawn of Bahagarra he was unrivaled by his generation and those that came after, and was one of the most active scourges to humanity. Yet one brave and mighty knight of one, now lost, kingdom had finally defeated him and ended his centuries of terror. The knight's birth name was Gabriel Sigurd, though dubbed as Arch-angel Gabriel by his kingdom; owed to his unnatural and incredible power and skill, as if he were some divine instrument, and the angelic wings adorned from his armor, which granted him flight. He had not only humbled the monster in his defeat, but his code of honor and mercy towards the beast, an unusual gesture of kindness towards a monster that had previously bore no sympathy, inspired Fafnir hence fourth. The beast followed the knight's example, served the same kingdom with up most loyalty, and began to become intrigued and respectful of the martial prowess of the mortals once trained to slay him. Eventually, he abandoned his form through arcane rites, and convinced a then retired Sir Sigurd to teach him his martial power. When Sigurd inevitable fell to the mortal fate of all humans, the immortal dragon carried on his mentor's legacy. Taking his enchanted armaments, lance, armor, and shield, and even his surname, he continued to serve the kingdom and passed down his ways to the knights and soldiers of that realm, and the wandering warriors that sought his teachings. However his most proud hobby was seeking worthy opponents for the sport of combat. Whether it be a monster, a warrior, or something otherwordly; ever since his battle with Gabriel, Fafnir has acquired the taste of honorable combat. Always seeking the next opponent that could replicate the same feelings he felt in that original battle, never truly satisfied, but eager to continue. The teachings of Sigurd never left him, both in skill and in morality. As an eternal respect for his long deceased master, the knight retains the ideologies of the honorable and chivalrous knight his mentor once was. He defended the kingdom from others of his kin, until the dragons stopped spawning with Bahagarra's defeat.
But all things must come to an end. The kingdom he once served inevitably became lost to time, the ruins of its once proud structures sunken beneath water and dirt. With little purpose left, the ancient being sunk into a depression, and slumbered for the centuries to come. Finding solice in the tomb of his progenitors, and for that time, guarding it so that no one would reawaken the disasters that may plague the world again. One day, amidst his ancient slumber, he had a dream. A dream of his master, a dream of promise. Dreams that filled the forgotten soldier with hope. He longed for that thrill of battle that was lost to him. Such motivation stirred him from his slumber, and the primordial knight rose from the dirt and sea to witness the new world. So much had changed, there was so much to learn. But more importantly, there were fighters to find, warriors to challenge. Though he may had lost his master and his kingdom, he still had one purpose left in life, and that was the thrill of battle.
FIGHTING STYLE & ABILITIES
FIGHTING STYLE
With the exception of being somewhat more nimble Fafnir is not as strong, nor as in tune with his ki in this false image, however he makes up for that weakness with the vast amount of generations he spent honing a finesse with weaponry. His primary tactics use a mixture of Ki power and his trusty lance, one that served him throughout generations. In unarmed combat he lacks the finesse he wields with his lance, and thus his kicks and punches, though powerful, are slow and crude. Such attacks lack the proper speed or efficiency those more experienced with hand-to-hand combat possess. His 'style' in which case usually involves excessive use of using his weight and size to body slam, elbow, or grapple enemies with his crushing strength and weight. He also utilizes his tail to whip or even stab at his foes as a spear if he feels such strategies are warranted. Though capable of flight in his sealed form, he's a slow glider and can only effectively 'dash' with leaping or landing. Thus doesn't have any real aerial combat technique.
He is no stranger to pain and is more then willing to take injuries so long as it means he can strike back. While winning is fine, he is more focused on the thrill of the battle itself and chooses to prolong the fight if possible. While mercy isn't strictly enforced in his honor code, he has no qualms offering that same kindness he was dealt when defeated by Joseph.
Fafnir in his humanoid form takes the time to stay mostly defensive and study his opponents carefully, using what energy is necessary to protect himself and keeping the flow of battle steady so that he can conserve the rest for when he feels the opportune moment to unleash it. He often plays to what his opponent offers, even if his foe is weaker then Fafnir, Fafnir rarely goes anything beyond his foe's own level in that case, in the start of that fight. This is for both to take pleasure in the battle itself, but to once again, take time to study his opponent.
If he ever sheds his mortal form however, Fafnir's fighting style is a u-turn from his original style. Without any finesse or weaponry, He relies solely on ki-power and physical capabilities his form offers. Just as the Dragon-Form will often go all out at the very start of his transformation, his instincts become much more of primal fury, at some points even lacking self-control with how carried away his predatory nature takes a hold of him. For this reason he only uses his true-form as a last resort tactic, or if someone really infuriates him. In most scenarios he'd much rather lose in his mortal form then to win in his true form, unless if that fight mattered more beyond his entertainment and honor.
SPECIAL MOVES & TECHNIQUES
■ Fury Jab
Fafnir imbues his lance with flames and unleashes a fast, multi-thrust attack with his lance. Unless if he has the intention to kill, the thrusts will usually be aimed to impale the arms and lower torso, and/or any equipment the target may be holding. The blade is typically outlined with a trail of flames
■ Grapple Bolt
Fafnir thrusts his hand forwards, and summons a whip-like tendril of electricity that acts as a tether-grab. Pulling him to whatever the bolt connects with or dragging it back to him.
■ Tempest Stomp.
Fafnir raises and charges his foot before bringing it back down, unleashed a torrent of electric ki and air around him, usually launching people around him upward.
■ Incedinary Cloud
Fafnir, unmasked, exhales a thick cloud of burning smoke and fire that lingers for a few minutes before dissipating.
■ Scalelord's Conquest
Fafnir Soars into the air then lands down upon his opponent with high velocity, down thrusting his lance to either impale the foe from above or to thrust it through the ground, in either scenario the landing produces an electric and pressure blast of ki around both him and the weapon
■ Burning Honor
Fafnir becomes engulfed in flames, as if the fire was an additional set of armor. Its brightness can also obscure his figure making long-range precision based attacks more likely to miss him, in addition to slowly cooking those that are too close for comfort. Though extended use can eat away at his ki reserve, the buff also increases his movement speed.
■ Disarming Grasp
If unarmed, Fafnir can channel ki into his hand to create a powerful electric charge or blast of fire, which will either be used as a simple, powerful punch, or tip grip/choke hold an opponent at the right opportunity to deliver the full voltage(or heat and force if he uses flames instead.) of that energy.
■ Thunder Spear
Fafnir can imbue his lance with electric ki to deliver a devastating blow rivaling the power of a lightning bolt. Alternatively, with a steady aim, he can abandon his weapon by tossing it forward channeled heavily with ki. The thrown lance takes the form of a lightning bolt as it blasts the surface of whatever it impacts with great radiant voltage and force.
■ Rising Fire
Fafnir and slashes or raises his lance in a sweeping motion, and a wave of flames spawn from the ground and rise up at an angle facing away from him with great force and heat. Alternatively Fafnir can use this skill without his weapon by slamming his fist on the earth below him, which creates the same firey explosion directly below and around him instead.
■ Valor of the scales
Shield raised, a crimson aura extends from the shield, widening it’s defensive range. The aura shield can withstand some damage, but will shatter with sufficient stress.
■ Dragon's Blaze
After taking a deep breathe, Fafnir can use his ki to spew a short blast of pressurized air and flames from his mouth and wings at a range of 4 meters. The attack is more focused on knock back rather then heat or damage.
■ Scale’s Blessing
Raising his shield, Fafnir can buff an individual other then himself, granting them temporary regeneration, ki amplification, stamina recovery, and ease of pain. The buff lasts for few minutes, and can only be used once per 24 hours. Upon recieving this buff, previously existing wounds will mostly heal including gaping holes, damaged organs, and broken bones.
■ Constricting Catch
Utilizing his prehensile tail, Fafnir can lash it out at his foes from around or below him. In this technique, he uses his tail to grapple via wrapping around his opponent's arm, torso, or leg; Usually then resulting in him tossing that opponent aside.
SUPER MOVES
■ Tactical Swipe
Fafnir channels his ki to the lance's blade, giving it twice as much reach as well as a combination of electric and fire based ki, though the motion itself is slow the concentrated power is designed to break someone's guard and/or armor, if not a killing blow. Swinging or thrusting his charged up blade will also create a crescent shaped wave of pressurized flames and electric current, creating a projectile that is not as powerful as being hit with the melee attack itself.
■ Raging Dragon's Soul
Fafnir summons an oriental dragon made entirely of fire based ki; willed to charge and either smash or engulf a target with intense flames. Though the dragon's length can extend it's only half a body, with Fafnir's body being attached to where the dragon's lower half would be. The dragon disperses shortly after its initial attack. During it's summon, Fafnir is immobile.
■ Unmasking the seal
Fafnir reveals his true form, a monstrous, ancient dragon.
Although Fafnir is immune to heat-related damage in both his mortal shell and true form and being fairly durable with both a tough body and tremendous natural ki, his superhuman resilience is increased further with scales (except the underbelly) that have the durability to rival steel even without his ki. In flight, the form can be quiet fast and nimble in the air despite his size and weight. Claws and maw that can crush stone and metal with ease, as well as a powerful tail equipped with a sharp spine at the tip to simulate a spear. The dragon can also breathe a torrential spray of molten fire or bolts of black lightning from his maw. However, due to Fafnir having spent most of his days now in his sealed form, the seal had grown a tight lock on his true nature. Fafnir can only transform into a 'dwarf' (Approximately 50 feet long.) and weakened state of his original form for a brief time of 5 minutes with a few hours of cooldown time.
WEAKNESSES & LIMITS
Worst of worlds: In most situations, Fafnir starts out slow in his sealed form, often trying to fight at an 'equal' footing at his opponents. Weaker opponents as a result have a better chance of beating him, as does stronger opponents that he can't adapt to in time. In the rare occasion where Fafnir has no honor or respect for an opponent, he will go all out and transform, instead becoming reckless and easy to tire out. Either way, it isn't too difficult to strategies against.
Glutton for punishment: His bloodlust for battle and refusal to dishonor his opponents often lead him to purposely taking hits. Usually he takes advantages of these blows to counter attack, however the sport he finds in testing the strength or force of his opponent's attacks can often give him situations with damage that he could have prevented.
Prideful Vengeance: Despite his worked up tolerance, those that damage his pride can potentially tear through his wisdom and better judgement if they know what buttons to push. Insulting his honor is one sure way to enrage him. Though he is often humble, he still carries with him a sense of pride of his own power partially fueled by the innate, natural arrogance of a dragon.
Imperfect Armor: In his dragon form, the underbelly is soft and vulnerable to attack.
Cold-blooded: Fafnir does best in hot environments. Exposed to cold conditions or cryogenic based attacks can weaken his endurance and overall performance.
OTHER
His armaments; Shield, Lance, and Armor, are enchanted and it will be restored after a day to his arsenal if they are damaged or destroyed. Out of combat he can summon and unsummon these equipment's at will.
First the mountain where the original Ur-Dragon arrived upon, deep within the rock lies a vast cavern lit by massive illuminating crystals. molten rock, and pools of sparkling water. Surrounding the walls of the massive hole is the skeleton of Bahagarrah, his head encircled by a sacred marble shrine. Surrounding the shrine are a grand accumulation of gold and treasure. This is the home of Fafnir, the tomb of his progenitors and place he guards when he isn't about experiencing the new world.
An undead dragon; Kilgarrah Zmey, slumbers within this site, acting as the sole defender of this chasm when Fafnir is not around.
Changes include: Moveset expansion, backstory expansion/modification, current home(?), and a current size estimate for the ult he rarely uses.
As a typical vampire, Vlad has pale white skin and glowing crimson eyes. His hair is a raven black and his face sports a hint of stubble. The fangs are immediately noticable. His physique his tall and lean, standing at 6'5".
Vlad makes sure to always dress appropriately. He often wears some form of formal attire, usually a black suit with a red tie. Sometimes he wears an overly large-brimmed sunhat, and of course, always wearing a long black and red cape with a cowl.
Vlad usually has a facade of grace. He is a formal gentleman; often polite, or tries to be. Regardless, underneath that facade is a chaotic individual who certainly has no qualms with feeding off of the living, or messing with the wrong people. Immortality has made life, well, boring, and Vlad often entertains himself with mischief; sometimes harmless. There is an obvious, and perhaps, annoying sense of pride and confidence that Vlad always carries. Overconfident in both his own nature as 'the prince of the night', as well as considering himself to be a man of high class and wealth. Due to this Vlad looks upon less fortunate soul with (almost) a sense of pity. Mortals too. Almost, but, not enough for him to make a difference.
Being a man of dignity, Vlad distastes getting himself dirty. Whether it be combat, or merely feeding, Redrum tries to be as clean and as professional as possible.
When he is expected to duel or to otherwise get busy, he will often wear his 'duelist uniform' which is just a glorified black and gold fencer uniform (Which is also sun proof):
The reporter walked into the mansion, taking nervous steps on the clean tiled floor. The cameraman behind her was just as cautious. As they walked, they couldn't help but notice the servants around them. Maids and butlers, all with a lifeless expression; dead eyes watching them as they moved further. The room was cold, and the motionless servants didn't help to lift the atmosphere.
"Are you sure this isn't a prank?" Said the cameraman, having attempted to turn his fear into frustration.
"He gave us an invitation in person, remember? It's un-" She snapped back, but was cut off as a sudden motion caught both of their attention. Before them, between the double staircase of the foyer, rose a swirling mass that had seemed to swoop down on the floor from the shadows. Taking shape from the swirl of motion, later revealed to be his cape, was the man of the hour himself.
"Greetings, welcome to my humble abode." Vlad bowed politely before his guests, dressed in his typical evening suit. "I hope my loyal subjects haven't bothered you." He said, his voice was almost enchanting, yet there in lied waited something sinister in his tone; like a serpent.
He snapped his fingers, and the handful of maids and butlers suddenly came to life. They seemed to carry on with their duties; moving furniture and decor, preparing drinks, and the like. Set up by several servants were a pair of expensive, decorative chairs with fine silk cushions, and a likewise rich couch of a black dyed fabric. Vlad had taken a seat on the sofa. Just as the reporter took a seat on one of the chairs, a maid approach to set up a tray with what appeared to be freshly served snacks; A glass of wine and miniature sandwiches.
The cameraman turned on his camera to film the two.
"So, what brings you to my estate, you'll have to forgive my poor memory."
"We um." She turned to the tray briefly to decide on whether taking a bite or not, before refusing. "Well you said you would tell the world where you came from, why you're here. Fans are dying to know after all, what's your story?"
He chuckled. "Fans? Story?" He waved his hand way in a dismissal motion.
"Oh you mortals and your, strange fascination with romanticizing monsters nowadays. 300 years ago you wouldn't see that kind of opinion out there." He sighed. "Ah but those days are over I'm afraid, very well, I shall tell you what I can remember.." He waved his hand in a dramatic motion as he began;
"You see, I was born into a royal family of, well, a kingdom of sorts. The name? I couldn't recall." He laughed, amusing himself. "Those kinds of details don't matter anymore anyway, I know it doesn't exist anymore. Anyway; so, of course, this small little civilization there, I think it was somewhere in east Europe; we were...let's say not the most liked kind of rulers out there. Sure, we didn't needlessly kill anyone. But there were complaints from the commoners about corruption, wickedness, greed, what have you. And sure, I suppose those complaints were...not far from the truth. I can't remember my father, I knew he was there, I knew what he did, but well; I suppose I just didn't care enough for him to remember. My mother, well, she was the one who spoiled me when I was a young one, I remember that face well enough. My sister, well...I suppose I have her to thank to be where I am today.
You see, I suppose it all started when famine struck our lands. Rain hadn't fall, the soil had become ill, and well; life was miserable. For them, not us, of course. While they starved outside, poor and with little food, we hoarded the land's boon. Fresh pig, mutton, mm...I almost missed that taste." He trailed off for a moment.
"Mr. Dalv?"
"Oh, pardon me."
"Is that your real name?"
"What is?"
"Dalv."
"Oh, no." He chuckled, waving away her thought. "No, my real name was far less suitable I suppose. I abandoned it sometime ago."
"Oh, well..."
Vlad took the advantage of her silence to continue. "Where was I? Oh yes, you see; They didn't like that fact too much, the commoners. They decided to have a riot of sorts. Pitchforks and torches, all that nonsense. Of course the guards initially had their uses, but I guess many of them joined the crowd since I, well, I suppose my father forgot to treat them well." He snickered. At the time I was about as old as, well, how you see me now. But still, I wasn't in charge. No I'd be on merry strolls enjoying my privileges and flirting with the local beauties. My carefree life was taken away by my reckless family."
"So you resent them?" She asked.
"Heavens no." He once again made a dismissal hand gesture, scoffing at the idea. "If it wasn't for them I wouldn't be here now. You see, because of this predicament, we were..desperate. My sister, now, I didn't know what she was up to. But it was revealed on that day that she was well versed in the occult. Now, I don't know if she was a witch, but I'm sure on any other day she could have been burned for that fact. Anyway, with her connections and my...father's..." He seemed to hesitate for a moment, a flash of anger briefly in his expression, as if a sudden memory popped into view. He played it off with a brief snicker. "My father had no idea what he was doing when he thrashed his daughter about saving them. The price she insisted was too high. Well, she couldn't do anything against an angry and desperate man losing power; so she had summoned a vampire."
A smile curled on his lips, revealing his fangs. "Shocker, I know."
"But it gets better. You see, the vampire in question was happy to deal with our little problem; But my father gave him a..well a bit too stern of an attitude. He didn't know his place. So our little blood-sucking friend wasn't in the best of mood to help us. More importantly, it was a bloody vampire; I mean who the hell.." He sighed. "I'm getting off topic. Anyway, our blood-sucking hero explains to us that he will grant our wish if we are willing to sacrifice one of our own. Sure enough, immediately without consent, my father picks out my sister. Now, as the vampire explained that he must literally stand his own damned child in the back; I was well...I didn't like that much really. Mother well, I'm sure she didn't want that, but she didn't interfere. So, I picked up a decorative sword from the wall, and used it to strike my father's back while he was busy on my sibling. Of course he was shocked, as was I, that was my first....kill. So to speak. While all this was happening, mind you, the revolt was reaching our doors. The vampire, having accepted the father as the sacrifice, took to dealing with the first wave of an angry mob. I don't remember the details, I recall my mother screaming; going into a corner. I remember my father trying to mouth something, struggling through rage and shock. 'Course I don't remember what he said. What I do remember, was my sister. Upon seeing the massacre she tried to stop what she had summoned. She drew a knife and stabbed the vampire's chest. I think she was going for the heart, but apparently she missed. The dagger didn't seem to go through his flesh that much either...Anyway, the angry fiend turned around and gutted her like a pig.
Now you can, imagine the shock of those events. The trauma, and all. I completely forgot who that monster was with how...well I'm not sure how to describe how I felt. It's been so long since I felt such emotion, and it was too complicated to wave it away as angry. No it was mixed with all..sorts..of delicious emotions. Rage, Fear, Shock, terror, panic....Ah, yes a lot of terrible things going on off at once. It made me dumb enough to attack the thing, and obviously my efforts were in vain. At this point most of the riot had realized what was happening after their first wave had been massacred, and began to scream in terror back to the village. The chaos had set the castle ablaze, I remember that, because I distinctly recall the fire twisting light and shadows around this...monstrous figure. It towered over me, scoffed, and I believe it bit my neck. It had to have had, because if he didn't, I wouldn't be here. Regardless, There was no period I remember in between; like sleeping and waking. I awoke, to find myself surrounded in a closed space of wood. It didn't take long to realize I had been buried alive. Except, I wasn't really alive, now was I?" He grinned again at the woman, giving her a wink with his crimson eyes.
The gesture sent a shiver down her spine, but she continued. "That..that must been when you turned then."
"Correct." He responded. "My skin was pale, I had no pulse; I was cold, but not..really. Numb perhaps. Anyway, I freaked out and struggled for a bit. Eventually I discovered the unnatural strength I had which allowed me to claw my way out of the coffin and the earth. I awoke in the graveyard, and returned to my castle. It had been well, 3 days since I died. According to what I learned. My subjects were shocked to see me. I was more shocked, to see my mother's, the queen's, battered corpse hanging from the front of the castle gate; sweet dry blood staining the stone bricks. Well they called us a monster in life, so I decided to give them what they said I was."
His grin faded back into a smile, though it still felt sinister to the woman, who now nervously took a sip of the wine. "Well, the few that I liked I turned into the loyal subjects you see around this manner. Eternal like me, but not quite vampires. Pity they don't have any free will to entertain me with."
"Wow that is um...fascinating, Mr. Dalv. But why are you here now, so far away from home?"
"Money, fame, social status. Trivial things mind you, and of course, living in a damp old castle isn't really a lifestyle fit for a prince, is it?" He said as he slowly moved off from the couch.
The woman was speechless as she was staring into Vlad's eyes. Like it was some kind of trance. The cameraman noticed this, and turned his camera off. He tried to snap her awake, shouting "hey!" But our dashing young vampire had closed the distance between them in unnatural speed. His cold white fingers gripped the man's throat, cutting his voice off from any further sound. "Shhh.." He whispered as his nails elongated into claws, drawing blood from small cuts that were made on his neck from the transformation of the fingers. Drawing his fangs, he bit into the cameraman's neck, who dropped his camera from the attack. He was sucked dry, while the woman remained in a trance. "Hmm.." He said as he dropped the corpse. "Well, I think this will make a fine addition to the auditorium. What do you think...what was your name again Darling?"
"Mary." She said in a tranced voice, as if she was talking in her sleep.
"Ah, a pleasure to make your acquaintance my dear." He spoke, before taking a bite out of her neck as well.
FIGHTING STYLE & ABILITIES
FIGHTING STYLE
Vlad as a high class gentleman, doesn't like to get dirty or expend to much effort. However he is not opposed to a proper duel or challenge. Wielding a rather long rapier which he has dubbed 'The Impaler', Vlad strikes with swift jabs while sustaining a comfortable distance between himself and his opponent. Drawing blood, usually from his foe, allows him to use his vampiric powers further to his advantage.
His vampiric physiology has given him numerous supernatural advantages. While the vampiric ki he possesses is in itself relatively weak; he is still unnaturally strong and durable. He can regenerate effectively (So long as his heart isn't destroyed). Able to see in the dark, possessing a strong sense of smell, and being tied to necromancy are all traits of a vampire Vlad can exploit. His 'art' practices mostly on blood manipulation. Blood that has been separated from a body can be manipulated into various ways by the moves below. This blood can be his own blood or another's, but if it is an outside source it cannot be manipulated while connected to one's body and ki. Meaning the blood used must be outside the body and drawn out such as a puddle of blood or on his sword. This form of blood manipulation is fueled and controlled by his vampiric ki.
SPECIAL MOVES & TECHNIQUES
■ [Vampiric Mist]
[Vlad turns into an immobile body of mist; becoming temporarily intangible and immune to attacks, but cannot move during this state.]
■ [Bat Form]
[Vlad can turn into a small, fast vampire bat. While still having blood sucking fangs he is mostly defenseless in this form. But his small size and swift speed makes him a difficult target in this form. Best used for transportation or evading attacks.]
■ [Blood Fire]
[Vlad can cause blood to boil into a burning liquid, or even explode rapidly into a powerful burst.]
■ [Crimson Blade]
[With blood staining his rapier, Vlad can extend and solidify the blood into a longer ranged blade. The exact shape of this blood sword/weapon can be determined by him.]
■ [Blood spear]
[Vlad can project a bolt composed of semi solid blood either from a portion of crimson blade, a nearby blood puddle, or from his own body. The resulting projectile is both sharp and fast, like a crossbow bolt.]
■ [Ghastly Presence]
[Vlad allow's himself reveal or surpress his own fiendish presence at will. When revealed, his presence makes the surrounding area drop in temperature, often accompanied by shadows twists around him or letting the wind howl. Animals will often either go quiet at his presence, or freak out by barking/growling. Small open flames can be put out as well by this ability.]
■ [Mage Hand]
[An incorporeal hand can be summoned at will by Vlad. This hand acts as an independant, floating hand. Able to lift, carry, pull, and push objects. It can't attack by itself, but can throw objects or wield weapons. The hand's range is limited by 30 meters around Vlad]
■ [Blood Snare]
[A tendril or multiple tendrils form from either Vlad's own blood, a blood puddle, or from his crimson blade. The tendril aims to wrap around a subject to trap them in place, and is free to pull or move trapped victims if successful. The tendrils may also throw these victims, or instead act to slam into said victim instead of trying to grab them.]
■ [Vampiric Waltz]
[Vlad expends more of his vampiric ki to apply his undead speed. Turning himself into almost a blur of speed, Vlad will attempt to disorient his opponent by taking three stride-like side steps, which cover a large distance with only a motion trail. In between each step is a rhytmic pause. Then he performs a fourth motion; either perform a counter attack with his rapier, or retreat into a nearby hiding place.]
■ [Blood Wave]
[From his own blood/body, a nearby puddle, or through crimson blade, Vlad can generate a crescent shaped wave of blood, which is sharp enough to act as a bladed projectile.
■ [Duelist Flurry]
[A rapid thrust attack with his rapier, aiming to both disorient his opponent with a flurry of attacks with the hopes of at least landing one hit to draw blood.]
■ [Vampiric Hypnosis]
By staring deeply into his eyes, and requiring activation, Vlad can put people under hypnosis, and manipulate them under his will temporarily. This requires sustained eye contact, and most commands can only be sustained and obeyed by remaining in that trance. Subconscious orders can also be implanted to perform later, but this is harder to pull off if they have a strong will. Hypnosis doesn't work with people that can use their ki, or if they have a strong enough will power. Breaking eye contact for more then 5 seconds ends the trance. A sustained trance of 2 minutes is required to implant a subconscious command.]
SUPER MOVES
■ [Blood Storm]
[Vlad unleashes a flurry of blood spears in rapid fire.]
■ [Midnight Swarm]
[Vlad conjures hundreds of bats that swarm their opponent with fangs and clawed feet. The bats are a bit more monstrous looking then the average vampire bat. They are the size of fruit bats, with long claws for feet and canine-rowed teeth in their maws. Blood red eyes and slick wolf-like fur. Being slightly stronger then the average bat, they are potentially dangerous, but not too difficult to kill individually. The swarm de-spawns after 1 minute.]
■ [Life Drain]
[With a tight grip of an opponent, Vlad unleashed a torrent of undead, necromatic magic. Opponents that are mortal and biologically will have their skin burst in bloody lesions and mild decay/rot under contact from Vlad's palm. Both their life force and ki are drained by this move, temporarily weakening them and making the pain of their injuries much more unbearable then it would otherwise.]
WEAKNESSES & LIMITS
Since vampire's are undead, they're ki is not self-sustainable. Instead it is drawn from the blood of their victims, and absorbed to be stored and help fuel their false life. Since vampiric ki is absorbed from the life energy of blood itself, it is often attributed with a blood-colored tint of hue when exposed. Those that are able to control ki are more difficult to drink from, as their blood can 'fight back' when being absorbed; essentially the ki becomes more active and can do more damage to the vampire instead of being properly consumed, thus vampires can't really drink from ki users unless if they are in a dying state; or in an otherwise weak state where they physically cannot draw ki properly. Some vampiric ki can be regenerated during the 'rest' period vampires may take, usually during the day, and in their coffins. Though this method isn't sustainable unless if they rest for centuries. Blood from other immortals and mythic creatures also won't do so well, especially divine blood, as all of which and especially the latter are toxic and potentially fatal.
Those with ki are also able to resist many of the vampiric abilities, such as hypnosis, and ki is in of itself an effective ward for vampires. Ki-based damage is harder to recover from for vampires, often exhausting to regenerate from. Powerful doses of ki can even burn a vampire even if it's not supposed to be an attack.
UV radiation burns and melts a vampire into nothing but steam and dust. Extensive proper protection is required if a vampire such as vlad needs to be out in daylight: Many avoid the risk altogether by staying dormant. Powerful sunscreen can slow the process to mild burnings initially. Vlad's cape, cowl, and sunhat are often well enough to travel out in the day: But he still has to be careful not to expose himself in the sun for any extensive activity.
As long as the heart is in tact, Vlad can regenerate. Severe destruction can take a while to regenerate fully, decapitation causes knockouts until it is regenerated.
Divine energy, holy objects, blessed water, and other such holy factors are all toxic to an undead fiend. Contact with holy water or otherwise divine material can cause a vampire to burn and melt. Holy objects like a cross may not cause immediate effects, but can drive a vampire off even if only being near a vampire.
Contrary to popular belief a mere wooden stake doesn't do much. The stake must be made from white oak, a tree that has an unnatural amount of potent ki even when chopped to simple materials. White oak in general has an adverse affect to vampires. This aversion inhibits their regeneration, similar to ki attacks, when struck by weapons made from white oak. Impalement by a white oak stake can be difficult to deal with for most vampires, and of course, a stake to the heart is immediately fatal.
Stakes can also be applied to corpses suspected of turning into vampire's by striking their heart. Doing so prevents the corpse from turning into a vampire. Hawthorne's trees also have a similar effect, due to it's holy connections, it inflicts minor burns.
Vampire's are essentially extremely allergic to garlic. The smell alone is overwhelming. Direct contact can give them mild burns.
A vampire cannot enter someone's home without permission. A simple denial or ignoring of a vampire's request to enter is all is necessary to keep a vampire out of one's private home.
Vampire's can't see their reflection. In fact in mirrors or even reflective water they lack any reflection of their person.
Rivers, streams, and other bodies of running water act as a physical ward that prevent vampires from crossing. By instinct their bodies refuse to move past or above a river if it is in sight or uncovered. If they are forced into such waters, they're bodies essentially become petrified into a stasis-like state; and will remain so unless if they are removed from the running currents. This does not apply to any form of moving water, such as rain drops or a shower. Large bodies of water with currents such as a huge lake or ocean do not necessarily apply either, though powerful currents can produce a similar effect if exposed to.
OTHER
What else?
Those that have been drained of blood completely by a vampire will have their empty veins flooded with a black-venom like substance. This is essentially the vampire curse. After dying, the venom is soaked into the dead corpse of the victim, and will revive them as an undead vampire. This curse only applies to humans. The venom while transferred still even if they aren't completely sucked dry, is usually destroyed by white blood cells naturally.
Vampires can also raise the dead as undead thralls. These are more or less like personal zombie servants, also known as ghouls. Ghouls are raised by vampires by removing the venom before it is fully absorbed into the corpse; preventing them from becoming vampires but still becoming raised as undead. Like a vampire they have supernatural strength, but lack some of the weaknesses such as sunlight or stakes. They are still undead and can't cross running water or deal with holy objects. They can't regenerate, but don't experience pain as they are essentially a sapient corpse. Ghouls do not need to feed, and are usually held as slaves by their vampiric masters. Ghouls are allowed however to obtain independence on rare occasions, usually by the death of their masters. Vampires can only control a limited amount of ghouls at a time.
⦋ N/A || N/A || Male ⦌
APPEARANCE & PERSONALITY
APPEARANCE
Fafnir is a surviving mythological being. In his original form, the dragon stands (on four legs) at 16 feet in height, 34 feet long, and a wingspan of 28 feet. The beast has two bull like horns and a third blade-like horn on the snout, as well as sharp spines that run down his back and below his jaw. Black plated scales armor his body along with the somewhat softer crimson scales of his underbelly. His eyes are crocodilian in nature, and are a piercing yellow. Black jagged teeth run the maw of the saurian-shaped head, with a forked tongue slithering within his mouth. A sail-like frill runs along his back between the sharp spines and can extend or recede in a display, tallest near the top of long snake-like neck. Long bat-like wings act as a third pair of limbs, all 3 pairs bear sharp 3-fingered claws.
In his usual, sealed form however, he is a massive 6'11" beige-skinned human with typical Aryan facial features and a muscular build. However he still retains some leaks of his inhuman nature in the form of his reptilian, glowing snake-like eyes, a pair of wings and a large, lumbering tail of black and red keeled scales and a barbed tip.
His armor is fully plated iron, from head to foot, that fully conceals him. The only parts of him not concealed are his wings and his tail. The armor has various runes carved into it to attune with his Ki, as well as his large 6'0 lance he wields as a weapon, and a massive plated shield.
PERSONALITY TRAITS
Wise Observant Prideful Honorable Silent thinker Loner Vengeful Not-very-Tech-Savy(As well as just being not too familiar with most products of modern culture in general.) Stuck in the past, old way mentality. Long fuse( but should that fuse be lit it can provoke him into a much more animalistic or feral nature.)
BACKSTORY & MOTIVATION
Fafnir was once a great dragon of malice, fueled by a thirst for utter destruction and power. As if by instinct his feral nature laid ruin to villages and kingdoms of old. Typical of a primordial creature, his natural prowess of Ki and the magical properties of his biology were to be expected and feared amongst the mortals he terrorized. Yet one brave and mighty knight of one, now lost, kingdom had finally defeated him and ended his centuries of terror. The knight named Joseph Sigurd had not only humbled the monster in his defeat, but his code of honor and mercy towards the beast, an unusual gesture of kindness towards a monster that had previously bore no sympathy, inspired Fafnir hence fourth. The beast followed the knight's example, served the same kingdom with up most loyalty, and began to become intrigued and respectful of the martial prowess of the mortals once trained to slay him. Eventually, he abandoned his form through arcane rites, and convinced a then retired Sir Sigurd to teach him his martial power. When Sigurd inevitable fell to the mortal fate of all humans, the immortal dragon carried on his mentor's legacy. Taking his enchanted armaments, lance, armor, and shield, and even his surname, he continued to serve the kingdom and passed down his ways to the knights and soldiers of that realm, and the wandering warriors that sought his teachings. However his most proud hobby was seeking worthy opponents for the sport of combat. Whether it be a monster, a warrior, or something otherwordly; ever since his battle with Gawain Fafnir has acquired the taste of honorable combat. Always seeking the next opponent that could replicate the same feelings he felt in that original battle, never truly satisfied, but eager to continue. The teachings of Sigurd never left him, both in skill and in morality. As an eternal respect for his long deceased master, the knight retains the ideologies of the honorable and chivalrous knight his mentor once was.
But all things must come to an end. The kingdom he once served inevitably became lost to time, the ruins of its once proud structures sunken beneath water and dirt. With little purpose left, the ancient being sunk into a depression, and slumbered for the centuries to come. One day, amidst his ancient slumber, he had a dream. A dream of his master, a dream of promise. Dreams that filled the forgotten soldier with hope. He longed for that thrill of battle that was lost to him. Such motivation stirred him from his slumber, and the primordial knight rose from the dirt and sea to witness the new world. So much had changed, there was so much to learn. But more importantly, there were fighters to find, warriors to challenge. Though he may had lost his master and his kingdom, he still had one purpose left in life, and that was the thrill of battle.
FIGHTING STYLE & ABILITIES
FIGHTING STYLE
With the exception of being somewhat more nimble Fafnir is not as strong, nor as in tune with his ki in this false image, however he makes up for that weakness with the vast amount of generations he spent honing a finesse with weaponry. His primary tactics use a mixture of Ki power and his trusty lance, one that served him throughout generations. In unarmed combat he lacks the finesse he wields with his lance, and thus his kicks and punches, though powerful, are slow and crude. Such attacks lack the proper speed or efficiency those more experienced with hand-to-hand combat possess. His 'style' in which case usually involves excessive use of using his weight and size to body slam, elbow, or grapple enemies with his crushing strength and weight. He also utilizes his tail to whip or even stab at his foes as a spear if he feels such strategies are warranted.
He is no stranger to pain and is more then willing to take injuries so long as it means he can strike back. While winning is fine, he is more focused on the thrill of the battle itself and chooses to prolong the fight if possible. While mercy isn't strictly enforced in his honor code, he has no qualms offering that same kindness he was dealt when defeated by Joseph.
Fafnir in his humanoid form takes the time to stay mostly defensive and study his opponents carefully, using what energy is necessary to protect himself and keeping the flow of battle steady so that he can conserve the rest for when he feels the opportune moment to unleash it. He often plays to what his opponent offers, even if his foe is weaker then Fafnir, Fafnir rarely goes anything beyond his foe's own level in that case, in the start of that fight. This is for both to take pleasure in the battle itself, but to once again, take time to study his opponent.
If he ever sheds his mortal form however, Fafnir's fighting style is a u-turn from his original style. Without any finesse or weaponry, He relies solely on ki-power and physical capabilities his form offers. Just as the Dragon-Form will often go all out at the very start of his transformation, his instincts become much more of primal fury, at some points even lacking self-control with how carried away his predatory nature takes a hold of him. For this reason he only uses his true-form as a last resort tactic, or if someone really infuriates him. In most scenarios he'd much rather lose in his mortal form then to win in his true form, unless if that fight mattered more beyond his entertainment and honor.
SPECIAL MOVES & TECHNIQUES
■ Fury Jab
Fafnir imbues his lance with flames and unleashes a fast, multi-thrust attack with his lance. Unless if he has the intention to kill, the thrusts will usually be aimed to impale the arms and lower torso, and/or any equipment the target may be holding. The blade is typically outlined with a trail of flames
■ Scalelord's Conquest
Fafnir Soars into the air then lands down upon his opponent with high velocity, down thrusting his lance to either impale the foe from above or to thrust it through the ground, in either scenario the landing produces an electric and pressure blast of ki around both him and the weapon
■ Burning Honor
Fafnir becomes engulfed in flames, as if the fire was an additional set of armor. Its brightness can also obscure his figure making long-range precision based attacks more likely to miss him, in addition to slowly cooking those that are too close for comfort.
■ Disarming Grasp
If unarmed, Fafnir can channel ki into his hand to create a powerful electric charge or blast of fire, which will either be used as a simple, powerful punch, or tip grip/choke hold an opponent at the right opportunity to deliver the full voltage(or heat and force if he uses flames instead.) of that energy.
■ Thunder Spear
Fafnir can imbue his lance with electric ki to deliver a devastating blow rivaling the power of a lightning bolt. Alternatively, with a steady aim, he can abandon his weapon by tossing it forward channeled heavily with ki. The thrown lance takes the form of a lightning bolt as it blasts the surface of whatever it impacts with great radiant voltage and force.
■ Rising Fire
Fafnir and slashes or raises his lance in a sweeping motion, and a wave of flames spawn from the ground and rise up at an angle facing away from him with great force and heat. Alternatively Fafnir can use this skill without his weapon by slamming his fist on the earth below him, which creates the same firey explosion directly below and around him instead.
■ Dragon's Blaze
After taking a deep breathe, Fafnir can use his ki to spew a short blast of pressurized air and flames from his mouth and wings at a range of 4 meters. The attack is more focused on knock back rather then heat or damage.
■ Constricting Catch
Utilizing his prehensile tail, Fafnir can lash it out at his foes from around or below him. In this technique, he uses his tail to grapple via wrapping around his opponent's arm, torso, or leg; Usually then resulting in him tossing that opponent aside.
SUPER MOVES
■ Tactical Swipe
Fafnir channels his ki to the lance's blade, giving it twice as much reach as well as a combination of electric and fire based ki, though the motion itself is slow the concentrated power is designed to break someone's guard and/or armor, if not a killing blow. Swinging or thrusting his charged up blade will also create a crescent shaped wave of pressurized flames and electric current, creating a projectile that is not as powerful as being hit with the melee attack itself.
■ Wrath of the Dragon
Fafnir summons an oriental dragon made entirely of fire based ki; willed to charge and either smash or engulf a target with intense flames. Though the dragon's length can extend it's only half a body, with Fafnir's body being attached to where the dragon's lower half would be. The dragon disperses shortly after its initial attack. During it's summon, Fafnir is immobile.
■ Unmasking the seal
Fafnir reveals his true form, a monstrous dragon.
Although Fafnir is immune to heat-related damage in both his mortal shell and true form and being fairly durable with both a tough body and tremendous natural ki, his superhuman resilience is increased further with scales (except the underbelly) that have the durability to rival steel even without his ki. In flight, the form can be quiet fast and nimble in the air despite his size and weight. Claws and maw that can crush stone and bend metal with ease, as well as a powerful tail equipped with a sharp spine at the tip to simulate a spear. The dragon can also breathe a torrential spray of fire or bolts of black lightning from his maw. However, due to Fafnir having spent most of his days now in his sealed form, the seal had grown a tight lock on his true nature. Fafnir can only transform into his original state for a brief time of 5 minutes with a few hours of cooldown time.
WEAKNESSES & LIMITS
Worst of worlds: In most situations, Fafnir starts out slow in his sealed form, or goes all out and reckless in his dragon form. It isn't difficult to take advantage of Fafnir at either strategy.
Glutton for punishment: His bloodlust for battle and refusal to dishonor his opponents often lead him to purposely taking hits. Usually he takes advantages of these blows to counter attack, however the sport he finds in testing the strength or force of his opponent's attacks can often give him situations with damage that he could have prevented.
Prideful Vengeance: Despite his worked up tolerance, those that damage his pride can potentially tear through his wisdom and better judgement if they know what buttons to push. Insulting his honor is one sure way to enrage him. Though he is often humble, he still carries with him a sense of pride of his own power partially fueled by the innate, natural arrogance of a dragon.
Imperfect Armor: In his dragon form, the underbelly is soft and vulnerable to attack.
Cold-blooded: Fafnir does best in hot environments. Exposed to cold conditions or cryogenic based attacks can weaken his endurance.
OTHER
His armaments; Shield, Lance, and Armor, are enchanted and it will be restored after a day to his arsenal if they are damaged or destroyed. Out of combat he can summon and unsummon these equipment's at will.
Just gonna move my oldies here, might modify them particularly in the backstory around the time the ooc is up.
As a typical vampire, Vlad has pale white skin and glowing crimson eyes. His hair is a raven black and his face sports a hint of stubble. The fangs are immediately noticable. His physique his tall and lean, standing at 6'5".
Vlad makes sure to always dress appropriately. He often wears some form of formal attire, usually a black suit with a red tie. Sometimes he wears an overly large-brimmed sunhat, and of course, always wearing a long black and red cape with a cowl.
Vlad usually has a facade of grace. He is a formal gentleman; often polite, or tries to be. Regardless, underneath that facade is a chaotic individual who certainly has no qualms with feeding off of the living, or messing with the wrong people. Immortality has made life, well, boring, and Vlad often entertains himself with mischief; sometimes harmless. There is an obvious, and perhaps, annoying sense of pride and confidence that Vlad always carries. Overconfident in both his own nature as 'the prince of the night', as well as considering himself to be a man of high class and wealth. Due to this Vlad looks upon less fortunate soul with (almost) a sense of pity. Mortals too. Almost, but, not enough for him to make a difference.
Being a man of dignity, Vlad distastes getting himself dirty. Whether it be combat, or merely feeding, Redrum tries to be as clean and as professional as possible.
When he is expected to duel or to otherwise get busy, he will often wear his 'duelist uniform' which is just a glorified black and gold fencer uniform (Which is also sun proof):
The reporter walked into the mansion, taking nervous steps on the clean tiled floor. The cameraman behind her was just as cautious. As they walked, they couldn't help but notice the servants around them. Maids and butlers, all with a lifeless expression; dead eyes watching them as they moved further. The room was cold, and the motionless servants didn't help to lift the atmosphere.
"Are you sure this isn't a prank?" Said the cameraman, having attempted to turn his fear into frustration.
"He gave us an invitation in person, remember? It's un-" She snapped back, but was cut off as a sudden motion caught both of their attention. Before them, between the double staircase of the foyer, rose a swirling mass that had seemed to swoop down on the floor from the shadows. Taking shape from the swirl of motion, later revealed to be his cape, was the man of the hour himself.
"Greetings, welcome to my humble abode." Vlad bowed politely before his guests, dressed in his typical evening suit. "I hope my loyal subjects haven't bothered you." He said, his voice was almost enchanting, yet there in lied waited something sinister in his tone; like a serpent.
He snapped his fingers, and the handful of maids and butlers suddenly came to life. They seemed to carry on with their duties; moving furniture and decor, preparing drinks, and the like. Set up by several servants were a pair of expensive, decorative chairs with fine silk cushions, and a likewise rich couch of a black dyed fabric. Vlad had taken a seat on the sofa. Just as the reporter took a seat on one of the chairs, a maid approach to set up a tray with what appeared to be freshly served snacks; A glass of wine and miniature sandwiches.
The cameraman turned on his camera to film the two.
"So, what brings you to my estate, you'll have to forgive my poor memory."
"We um." She turned to the tray briefly to decide on whether taking a bite or not, before refusing. "Well you said you would tell the world where you came from, why you're here. Fans are dying to know after all, what's your story?"
He chuckled. "Fans? Story?" He waved his hand way in a dismissal motion.
"Oh you mortals and your, strange fascination with romanticizing monsters nowadays. 300 years ago you wouldn't see that kind of opinion out there." He sighed. "Ah but those days are over I'm afraid, very well, I shall tell you what I can remember.." He waved his hand in a dramatic motion as he began;
"You see, I was born into a royal family of, well, a kingdom of sorts. The name? I couldn't recall." He laughed, amusing himself. "Those kinds of details don't matter anymore anyway, I know it doesn't exist anymore. Anyway; so, of course, this small little civilization there, I think it was somewhere in east Europe; we were...let's say not the most liked kind of rulers out there. Sure, we didn't needlessly kill anyone. But there were complaints from the commoners about corruption, wickedness, greed, what have you. And sure, I suppose those complaints were...not far from the truth. I can't remember my father, I knew he was there, I knew what he did, but well; I suppose I just didn't care enough for him to remember. My mother, well, she was the one who spoiled me when I was a young one, I remember that face well enough. My sister, well...I suppose I have her to thank to be where I am today.
You see, I suppose it all started when famine struck our lands. Rain hadn't fall, the soil had become ill, and well; life was miserable. For them, not us, of course. While they starved outside, poor and with little food, we hoarded the land's boon. Fresh pig, mutton, mm...I almost missed that taste." He trailed off for a moment.
"Mr. Dalv?"
"Oh, pardon me."
"Is that your real name?"
"What is?"
"Dalv."
"Oh, no." He chuckled, waving away her thought. "No, my real name was far less suitable I suppose. I abandoned it sometime ago."
"Oh, well..."
Vlad took the advantage of her silence to continue. "Where was I? Oh yes, you see; They didn't like that fact too much, the commoners. They decided to have a riot of sorts. Pitchforks and torches, all that nonsense. Of course the guards initially had their uses, but I guess many of them joined the crowd since I, well, I suppose my father forgot to treat them well." He snickered. At the time I was about as old as, well, how you see me now. But still, I wasn't in charge. No I'd be on merry strolls enjoying my privileges and flirting with the local beauties. My carefree life was taken away by my reckless family."
"So you resent them?" She asked.
"Heavens no." He once again made a dismissal hand gesture, scoffing at the idea. "If it wasn't for them I wouldn't be here now. You see, because of this predicament, we were..desperate. My sister, now, I didn't know what she was up to. But it was revealed on that day that she was well versed in the occult. Now, I don't know if she was a witch, but I'm sure on any other day she could have been burned for that fact. Anyway, with her connections and my...father's..." He seemed to hesitate for a moment, a flash of anger briefly in his expression, as if a sudden memory popped into view. He played it off with a brief snicker. "My father had no idea what he was doing when he thrashed his daughter about saving them. The price she insisted was too high. Well, she couldn't do anything against an angry and desperate man losing power; so she had summoned a vampire."
A smile curled on his lips, revealing his fangs. "Shocker, I know."
"But it gets better. You see, the vampire in question was happy to deal with our little problem; But my father gave him a..well a bit too stern of an attitude. He didn't know his place. So our little blood-sucking friend wasn't in the best of mood to help us. More importantly, it was a bloody vampire; I mean who the hell.." He sighed. "I'm getting off topic. Anyway, our blood-sucking hero explains to us that he will grant our wish if we are willing to sacrifice one of our own. Sure enough, immediately without consent, my father picks out my sister. Now, as the vampire explained that he must literally stand his own damned child in the back; I was well...I didn't like that much really. Mother well, I'm sure she didn't want that, but she didn't interfere. So, I picked up a decorative sword from the wall, and used it to strike my father's back while he was busy on my sibling. Of course he was shocked, as was I, that was my first....kill. So to speak. While all this was happening, mind you, the revolt was reaching our doors. The vampire, having accepted the father as the sacrifice, took to dealing with the first wave of an angry mob. I don't remember the details, I recall my mother screaming; going into a corner. I remember my father trying to mouth something, struggling through rage and shock. 'Course I don't remember what he said. What I do remember, was my sister. Upon seeing the massacre she tried to stop what she had summoned. She drew a knife and stabbed the vampire's chest. I think she was going for the heart, but apparently she missed. The dagger didn't seem to go through his flesh that much either...Anyway, the angry fiend turned around and gutted her like a pig.
Now you can, imagine the shock of those events. The trauma, and all. I completely forgot who that monster was with how...well I'm not sure how to describe how I felt. It's been so long since I felt such emotion, and it was too complicated to wave it away as angry. No it was mixed with all..sorts..of delicious emotions. Rage, Fear, Shock, terror, panic....Ah, yes a lot of terrible things going on off at once. It made me dumb enough to attack the thing, and obviously my efforts were in vain. At this point most of the riot had realized what was happening after their first wave had been massacred, and began to scream in terror back to the village. The chaos had set the castle ablaze, I remember that, because I distinctly recall the fire twisting light and shadows around this...monstrous figure. It towered over me, scoffed, and I believe it bit my neck. It had to have had, because if he didn't, I wouldn't be here. Regardless, There was no period I remember in between; like sleeping and waking. I awoke, to find myself surrounded in a closed space of wood. It didn't take long to realize I had been buried alive. Except, I wasn't really alive, now was I?" He grinned again at the woman, giving her a wink with his crimson eyes.
The gesture sent a shiver down her spine, but she continued. "That..that must been when you turned then."
"Correct." He responded. "My skin was pale, I had no pulse; I was cold, but not..really. Numb perhaps. Anyway, I freaked out and struggled for a bit. Eventually I discovered the unnatural strength I had which allowed me to claw my way out of the coffin and the earth. I awoke in the graveyard, and returned to my castle. It had been well, 3 days since I died. According to what I learned. My subjects were shocked to see me. I was more shocked, to see my mother's, the queen's, battered corpse hanging from the front of the castle gate; sweet dry blood staining the stone bricks. Well they called us a monster in life, so I decided to give them what they said I was."
His grin faded back into a smile, though it still felt sinister to the woman, who now nervously took a sip of the wine. "Well, the few that I liked I turned into the loyal subjects you see around this manner. Eternal like me, but not quite vampires. Pity they don't have any free will to entertain me with."
"Wow that is um...fascinating, Mr. Dalv. But why are you here now, so far away from home?"
"Money, fame, social status. Trivial things mind you, and of course, living in a damp old castle isn't really a lifestyle fit for a prince, is it?" He said as he slowly moved off from the couch.
The woman was speechless as she was staring into Vlad's eyes. Like it was some kind of trance. The cameraman noticed this, and turned his camera off. He tried to snap her awake, shouting "hey!" But our dashing young vampire had closed the distance between them in unnatural speed. His cold white fingers gripped the man's throat, cutting his voice off from any further sound. "Shhh.." He whispered as his nails elongated into claws, drawing blood from small cuts that were made on his neck from the transformation of the fingers. Drawing his fangs, he bit into the cameraman's neck, who dropped his camera from the attack. He was sucked dry, while the woman remained in a trance. "Hmm.." He said as he dropped the corpse. "Well, I think this will make a fine addition to the auditorium. What do you think...what was your name again Darling?"
"Mary." She said in a tranced voice, as if she was talking in her sleep.
"Ah, a pleasure to make your acquaintance my dear." He spoke, before taking a bite out of her neck as well.
FIGHTING STYLE & ABILITIES
FIGHTING STYLE
Vlad as a high class gentleman, doesn't like to get dirty or expend to much effort. However he is not opposed to a proper duel or challenge. Wielding a rather long rapier which he has dubbed 'The Impaler', Vlad strikes with swift jabs while sustaining a comfortable distance between himself and his opponent. Drawing blood, usually from his foe, allows him to use his vampiric powers further to his advantage.
His vampiric physiology has given him numerous supernatural advantages. While the vampiric ki he possesses is in itself relatively weak; he is still unnaturally strong and durable. He can regenerate effectively (So long as his heart isn't destroyed). Able to see in the dark, possessing a strong sense of smell, and being tied to necromancy are all traits of a vampire Vlad can exploit. His 'art' practices mostly on blood manipulation. Blood that has been separated from a body can be manipulated into various ways by the moves below. This blood can be his own blood or another's, but if it is an outside source it cannot be manipulated while connected to one's body and ki. Meaning the blood used must be outside the body and drawn out such as a puddle of blood or on his sword. This form of blood manipulation is fueled and controlled by his vampiric ki.
SPECIAL MOVES & TECHNIQUES
■ [Vampiric Mist]
[Vlad turns into an immobile body of mist; becoming temporarily intangible and immune to attacks, but cannot move during this state.]
■ [Bat Form]
[Vlad can turn into a small, fast vampire bat. While still having blood sucking fangs he is mostly defenseless in this form. But his small size and swift speed makes him a difficult target in this form. Best used for transportation or evading attacks.]
■ [Blood Fire]
[Vlad can cause blood to boil into a burning liquid, or even explode rapidly into a powerful burst.]
■ [Crimson Blade]
[With blood staining his rapier, Vlad can extend and solidify the blood into a longer ranged blade. The exact shape of this blood sword/weapon can be determined by him.]
■ [Blood spear]
[Vlad can project a bolt composed of semi solid blood either from a portion of crimson blade, a nearby blood puddle, or from his own body. The resulting projectile is both sharp and fast, like a crossbow bolt.]
■ [Ghastly Presence]
[Vlad allow's himself reveal or surpress his own fiendish presence at will. When revealed, his presence makes the surrounding area drop in temperature, often accompanied by shadows twists around him or letting the wind howl. Animals will often either go quiet at his presence, or freak out by barking/growling. Small open flames can be put out as well by this ability.]
■ [Mage Hand]
[An incorporeal hand can be summoned at will by Vlad. This hand acts as an independant, floating hand. Able to lift, carry, pull, and push objects. It can't attack by itself, but can throw objects or wield weapons. The hand's range is limited by 30 meters around Vlad]
■ [Blood Snare]
[A tendril or multiple tendrils form from either Vlad's own blood, a blood puddle, or from his crimson blade. The tendril aims to wrap around a subject to trap them in place, and is free to pull or move trapped victims if successful. The tendrils may also throw these victims, or instead act to slam into said victim instead of trying to grab them.]
■ [Vampiric Waltz]
[Vlad expends more of his vampiric ki to apply his undead speed. Turning himself into almost a blur of speed, Vlad will attempt to disorient his opponent by taking three stride-like side steps, which cover a large distance with only a motion trail. In between each step is a rhytmic pause. Then he performs a fourth motion; either perform a counter attack with his rapier, or retreat into a nearby hiding place.]
■ [Blood Wave]
[From his own blood/body, a nearby puddle, or through crimson blade, Vlad can generate a crescent shaped wave of blood, which is sharp enough to act as a bladed projectile.
■ [Duelist Flurry]
[A rapid thrust attack with his rapier, aiming to both disorient his opponent with a flurry of attacks with the hopes of at least landing one hit to draw blood.]
■ [Vampiric Hypnosis]
By staring deeply into his eyes, and requiring activation, Vlad can put people under hypnosis, and manipulate them under his will temporarily. This requires sustained eye contact, and most commands can only be sustained and obeyed by remaining in that trance. Subconscious orders can also be implanted to perform later, but this is harder to pull off if they have a strong will. Hypnosis doesn't work with people that can use their ki, or if they have a strong enough will power. Breaking eye contact for more then 5 seconds ends the trance. A sustained trance of 2 minutes is required to implant a subconscious command.]
SUPER MOVES
■ [Blood Storm]
[Vlad unleashes a flurry of blood spears in rapid fire.]
■ [Midnight Swarm]
[Vlad conjures hundreds of bats that swarm their opponent with fangs and clawed feet. The bats are a bit more monstrous looking then the average vampire bat. They are the size of fruit bats, with long claws for feet and canine-rowed teeth in their maws. Blood red eyes and slick wolf-like fur. Being slightly stronger then the average bat, they are potentially dangerous, but not too difficult to kill individually. The swarm de-spawns after 1 minute.]
■ [Life Drain]
[With a tight grip of an opponent, Vlad unleashed a torrent of undead, necromatic magic. Opponents that are mortal and biologically will have their skin burst in bloody lesions and mild decay/rot under contact from Vlad's palm. Both their life force and ki are drained by this move, temporarily weakening them and making the pain of their injuries much more unbearable then it would otherwise.]
WEAKNESSES & LIMITS
Since vampire's are undead, they're ki is not self-sustainable. Instead it is drawn from the blood of their victims, and absorbed to be stored and help fuel their false life. Since vampiric ki is absorbed from the life energy of blood itself, it is often attributed with a blood-colored tint of hue when exposed. Those that are able to control ki are more difficult to drink from, as their blood can 'fight back' when being absorbed; essentially the ki becomes more active and can do more damage to the vampire instead of being properly consumed, thus vampires can't really drink from ki users unless if they are in a dying state; or in an otherwise weak state where they physically cannot draw ki properly. Some vampiric ki can be regenerated during the 'rest' period vampires may take, usually during the day, and in their coffins. Though this method isn't sustainable unless if they rest for centuries. Blood from other immortals and mythic creatures also won't do so well, especially divine blood, as all of which and especially the latter are toxic and potentially fatal.
Those with ki are also able to resist many of the vampiric abilities, such as hypnosis, and ki is in of itself an effective ward for vampires. Ki-based damage is harder to recover from for vampires, often exhausting to regenerate from. Powerful doses of ki can even burn a vampire even if it's not supposed to be an attack.
UV radiation burns and melts a vampire into nothing but steam and dust. Extensive proper protection is required if a vampire such as vlad needs to be out in daylight: Many avoid the risk altogether by staying dormant. Powerful sunscreen can slow the process to mild burnings initially. Vlad's cape, cowl, and sunhat are often well enough to travel out in the day: But he still has to be careful not to expose himself in the sun for any extensive activity.
As long as the heart is in tact, Vlad can regenerate. Severe destruction can take a while to regenerate fully, decapitation causes knockouts until it is regenerated.
Divine energy, holy objects, blessed water, and other such holy factors are all toxic to an undead fiend. Contact with holy water or otherwise divine material can cause a vampire to burn and melt. Holy objects like a cross may not cause immediate effects, but can drive a vampire off even if only being near a vampire.
Contrary to popular belief a mere wooden stake doesn't do much. The stake must be made from white oak, a tree that has an unnatural amount of potent ki even when chopped to simple materials. White oak in general has an adverse affect to vampires. This aversion inhibits their regeneration, similar to ki attacks, when struck by weapons made from white oak. Impalement by a white oak stake can be difficult to deal with for most vampires, and of course, a stake to the heart is immediately fatal.
Stakes can also be applied to corpses suspected of turning into vampire's by striking their heart. Doing so prevents the corpse from turning into a vampire. Hawthorne's trees also have a similar effect, due to it's holy connections, it inflicts minor burns.
Vampire's are essentially extremely allergic to garlic. The smell alone is overwhelming. Direct contact can give them mild burns.
A vampire cannot enter someone's home without permission. A simple denial or ignoring of a vampire's request to enter is all is necessary to keep a vampire out of one's private home.
Vampire's can't see their reflection. In fact in mirrors or even reflective water they lack any reflection of their person.
Rivers, streams, and other bodies of running water act as a physical ward that prevent vampires from crossing. By instinct their bodies refuse to move past or above a river if it is in sight or uncovered. If they are forced into such waters, they're bodies essentially become petrified into a stasis-like state; and will remain so unless if they are removed from the running currents. This does not apply to any form of moving water, such as rain drops or a shower. Large bodies of water with currents such as a huge lake or ocean do not necessarily apply either, though powerful currents can produce a similar effect if exposed to.
OTHER
What else?
Those that have been drained of blood completely by a vampire will have their empty veins flooded with a black-venom like substance. This is essentially the vampire curse. After dying, the venom is soaked into the dead corpse of the victim, and will revive them as an undead vampire. This curse only applies to humans. The venom while transferred still even if they aren't completely sucked dry, is usually destroyed by white blood cells naturally.
Vampires can also raise the dead as undead thralls. These are more or less like personal zombie servants, also known as ghouls. Ghouls are raised by vampires by removing the venom before it is fully absorbed into the corpse; preventing them from becoming vampires but still becoming raised as undead. Like a vampire they have supernatural strength, but lack some of the weaknesses such as sunlight or stakes. They are still undead and can't cross running water or deal with holy objects. They can't regenerate, but don't experience pain as they are essentially a sapient corpse. Ghouls do not need to feed, and are usually held as slaves by their vampiric masters. Ghouls are allowed however to obtain independence on rare occasions, usually by the death of their masters. Vampires can only control a limited amount of ghouls at a time.
Fafnir didn't talk as much afterward his rally speech, instead shouting war cries as he cleared through waves of stone oni. So involved in the moment that he even forgot that he was standing beside other nomads, the thrill of battling such masses of enemies brought with it a powerful sense of nostalgia, it had taken him back to his 'glory days' as a knight fighting beside humans.
That trip of nostalgia was ended with the arrival of a large and real oni. With all attention on the one responsible for the attack, Fafnir couldn't help but feel a tad bit of sympathy. A fellow monster, like his own kind, that had been driven to near extinction by mortal hands; it was a plight he could understand. Perhaps it was the small inkling of a fiendish monster within him that pitied the oni rather then his 'mortal' identity.
Pity wasn't enough to change his allegiance of course; but that anger that had brewed from his tournament, his next path of honor, being interrupted had ceased. Instead now finding honor in the 'villain' the same as he saw any true warrior. One that desired vengeance.
Of course in the middle of his speech a less honorable nomad had already attacked the vengeful warrior. He felt some distaste in that action, but it couldn't be helped in these circumstances he supposed. This warrior desired the extinction of mankind after all.
"Daichi!" Fafnir shouted after Al made his attack, Smashing the bottom of his shield onto the earth to garner attention. "On behalf of mankind, you won't be killing any mortal until I fall!" With his lance readied at his side, he began to charge up ki within it's blade. He would have much preferred a one on one battle, but if the previous attack was evident he doubted the honor his nearby allies had. Besides, the weight of humanity rested on their shoulders anyway.
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