Half Pint

Ultimate One Universe: Emergence

@Half Pint this song will be playing in my head whenever you post as Panther

@Sep

Hahaha part of me wanted to add a reference to them somewhere in my post but I thought it might take away from the tone lol

Ultimate One Universe: Emergence

Volume 1 - The Heir of Dorado

Footsteps in the Jungle

---

Moquihuix sat at the head of the room, his broad shoulders casting a long shadow across the stone table. The chamber, lit by the warm glow of torches, felt heavy with tension as his advisors discussed the unsettling news. The soft hum of water from a nearby fountain was the only sound cutting through the low murmur of voices.

"They are drawing closer." one advisor said. "Our scouts have reported sightings of foreign invaders, armed, trying to sweep the jungle, no doubt looking for something."

"Still." another advisor added, her arms crossed over her chest "They have not come close to breaching the cloaking systems. Our technology remains far superior. Let them wander in circles for now."

Moquihuix exhaled slowly, his dark eyes glinting with thought. "And the drones?" he asked, his voice calm yet commanding. He leaned forward, resting his chin on his fist as he surveyed the room.

"Harmless." one of the senior generals answered. "They fly blind. Even with their surveillance, they see nothing but the dense jungle. None have come near our shields."

There was a pause as Moquihuix considered the situation. His fingers traced absent patterns on a map that lay on the table, as if trying to calculate the hundreds of ways the invaders could find his city. He nodded slowly, his fingers tapping lightly against the stone table as he considered their words. His voice, low and commanding, carried across the room.

"If we confront them, we risk drawing attention to ourselves. Dorado has been hidden for millenia for a reason. The world is not yet ready to know we exist, and we cannot reveal ourselves prematurely."

Another advisor, older and draped in richly embroidered robes, leaned forward, his voice carrying tones of concern. "But, my lord, how long can we rely on the jungle's protection? These outsiders, these invaders, are persistent. If we wait too long, we may find ourselves cornered."

Moquihuix’s jaw clenched slightly. He knew the stakes. "For as long as it takes. Our priority is secrecy. Monitor them. Engage only if absolutely necessary, and even then, leave no trace. The time will come when we will reveal ourselves to the rest of the world, but that time is not now."

The advisors nodded, though unease flickered in their expressions. They had kept the invaders at bay for years, but the presence of the foreign drones and soldiers on their borders was becoming too frequent to ignore. Time felt like it was running out, and maybe it was.

Moquihuix rose from his seat as his advisors left the room and made his way over to a balcony that overlooked a large city square in front of his palace. The city was bathed in the golden light of the lowering sun. A million thoughts were racing through his mind. They'd had sparse contact with outsiders over the years. Centuries ago one plucky adventurer might stumble across Dorado every 100, or even 200 years, but as technology advanced so did the methods those in the know used to try and find the golden city. Now it was every 50, or even sometimes 25 years that a foreigner had managed to wander their way too close to Dorado's gates.

They kept secluded from the outside world, but the outside world was no secret to them. They surveilled every major country, and it was of the utmost importance for the royal family to learn the languages of other cultures on the off chance they were forced to make contact. They'd lived in almost absolute peace for centuries, getting involved in the wars and skirmishes of the wider world was just too risky, especially with the interest they'd draw from global superpowers once Vibranium was discovered.

He heard the door open and a set of footsteps gently approaching him.

"The meeting is adjourned. You can bring me anymore problems tomorrow."

"Do I often bring you problems, Moquihuix?" replied his wife, Citlali, her voice soft yet teasing as she stepped out onto the balcony beside him. Her long, flowing dress, a deep shade of red embroidered with golden patterns, caught the fading sunlight, and her dark hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall. Though her presence brought a certain calm, the weight of their shared concerns was still reflected in her dark eyes.

Moquihuix turned to her, the faintest smile tugging at his mouth, though the seriousness of the meeting lingered in his expression. "Only when the problems are worth hearing." he said, his tone lightening slightly as he took her hand and pressed it gently to his lips.

Citlali gave him a knowing look, then turned her gaze over the city. The streets below were bustling with activity, families returning home as the sun dipped lower on the horizon. Despite the peaceful view, the tension from the earlier discussions clung to the air like an unwelcome shadow.

"They're getting closer, aren't they?" she asked, her voice barely a whisper, as if speaking too loudly might bring the invaders nearer.

Moquihuix nodded, his eyes still focused on the city below. "Closer than ever. They’re persistent, but our shields hold. For now."

"For now." Citlali echoed, her grip tightening slightly on his arm. "But how long can we hide, Moquihuix? The world beyond the jungle…it has changed so much. Maybe it’s time we consider making contact. On our own terms, before they find us on theirs."

Moquihuix's face darkened at the suggestion. He turned to face her fully, his voice firm. "No. The outside world is not ready for Dorado. They would tear us apart. Strip this city of its secrets, its power. You know this."

"I do." Citlali replied gently, searching his eyes. "But times are different. They’re not just wanderers or explorers anymore. They're armed with satellites, drones, technology we’ve never faced before. Eventually, they will find us. And when they do, we may not have the upper hand."

Her words hung in the air. Moquihuix clenched his jaw, turning back toward the horizon, his mind racing. "They are not ready." he repeated, his voice more resolute. "And neither are we. If we reveal ourselves now, it will invite destruction. The moment they learn of our Vibranium, every superpower on the planet will be at our gates, and then it will be war. We have the technological advantage, but they have the numbers."

Citlali was silent for a moment, her brow furrowed. She had heard these arguments many times before, understood the logic. But her heart whispered otherwise. "And yet, if we wait too long, Moquihuix...we may lose control of the situation entirely. The world has a way of finding what it wants, whether we're ready or not. Who knows, perhaps there are those out there who would wish to help Dorado, to live in harmony with us?"

Moquihuix didn't respond right away. He stood there, the silence stretching between them, the weight of his responsibilities pressing down on his shoulders. Finally, he sighed. "I will not risk our people. Not yet. Not until I am certain we can control the outcome."

Citlali placed a hand on his shoulder, her touch grounding him. "I understand. But we've kept this secret from Necalli for long enough. Sooner or later, he'll need to know what's happening beyond our borders."

Moquihuix’s expression softened slightly, though the concern didn’t leave his eyes. "He's not ready for that burden yet. He needs time."

Citlali nodded. "Perhaps. But he's not a child anymore, Moquihuix. He deserves to know what he will one day be responsible for."

Moquihuix followed her gaze as it drifted toward the square below, where Necalli had emerged from his lessons and was playing Pok-ta-pok with his friends. His movements were quick and precise, his body language focused and strong, laughing and shouting as the ball moved across the court.

Moquihuix watched in silence, the sight of his son both comforting and unsettling. After a long pause, he spoke softly, almost to himself. "I shouldn't have compared him to Itzcóatl yesterday. It was unfair."

Citlali glanced at him, her expression gentle. "You've always been hard on him, Moquihuix. He's not his brother, and he never will be. But that doesn't mean he's not capable in his own way."

Moquihuix sighed. "I know. I just...sometimes, I worry. About whether he's ready. About whether he'll ever be ready to be king."

Citlali placed a hand on his arm, her voice soft and reassuring. "Necalli has great potential. He may not be like Itzcóatl, but he's strong in his own right. When the time comes, he'll rise to the challenge."

Moquihuix nodded slowly, though the tension in his posture remained. "I hope you're right" he said quietly. "For his sake...and for Dorado's."

They stood together for a moment longer, watching as the sun dipped lower, casting a warm glow over the city and the courtyard below where their son played, unaware of the burdens waiting for him.

---

Necalli chewed on the end of his already destroyed pencil as he struggled to stay awake. His instructor had been droning on about the compelexities of foreign diplomacy for what felt like weeks now. This was his tradeoff. Either get a job working with his fathers advisors or attend these boring classes. He was supposed to be paying attention to the lesson, supposed to be learning about the dynamics of places like America, Britain, or China, countries far removed from the quiet and cloaked world of Dorado.

But his mind was elsewhere.

As the teacher lectured, Necalli's thoughts drifted to the outside world, what it was like beyond the borders of Dorado. He'd learned about their cultures and traditions, but never met someone from anywhere else. Part of him longed to run away to these places, to visit the Empire State Building, Big Ben, or the Great Wall. But instead he was stuck learning about the correct way to speak to foreign nationals without insulting them. It all seemed kind of pointless when his father refused to make contact with anyone.

The sound of his friends outside only further spurred his daydreams. He'd been cooped up far too long and his muscles were stiff from sitting still. He could hear the heavy ball thumping against a nearby wall as the game of Pok-ta-pok continued on without him.

Finally, the lesson ended, and Necalli wasted no time heading toward the courtyard. He stepped out into the cool, fresh air, the sun already beginning to set in the distance, and stretched his back letting out an exagerrated yawn. The streets were alive with people going about their business, but Necalli had only one destination in mind.

The second match had already started when he arrived. His friends were in the middle of a fast paced game, the heavy rubber ball bouncing off the stone walls with sharp, resonating thuds. Necalli grinned as he joined them, his earlier impatience fading as he focused on the game.

"Nice of you to join us, princess!" Shouted Tepe, volleying the ball into the air towards Necalli with his elbow. Necalli bounced it off his chest before booting it towards the stone goal mounted up on the wall.

"Well I couldn't let you lose all day!"

Pok-ta-pok was more than a pastime, it was a way of life for the people of Dorado. Teams had formed over the centuries of the game being played and the superstars of the sport were on the same level in Dorado as people like Ronaldo or Michael Jordan were in the outside world. The ballgame was played with intensity, and it didn't take long for Necalli to lose himself in the rhythm of it all, sweat dripping down his brow as he ran across the court.

But even as he played, something gnawed at the back of his mind. A faint whisper of something out of place. He couldn’t shake the sense that something was happening, something he wasn’t aware of.

His suspicions were confirmed when he overheard a conversation from the sidelines.

"My cousins a scout, he says they’ve been spotted again, on the outskirts." one voice said, just loud enough for Necalli to catch. "More foreigners this time, with machines. They're searching for something. Maybe…for us."

Necalli’s heart skipped a beat. He missed the ball as it flew past him, slamming against the wall. His friends laughed, giving him a light shove, but he barely heard them. His mind was elsewhere, fixated on the words that now echoed in his ears.

Foreigners. Searching for Dorado.

"They’ll never find us." another voice replied. "Moquihuix has decided we will remain hidden. They'll never get passed our borders."

Necalli forced a laugh with his friends, but the unease within him grew. Why hadn’t he been told about this? Why was his father keeping this from him? He'd heard rumours like this all his life, but they only got more common as time went on.

The game continued, but Necalli’s concentration faltered. His movements grew slower, his thoughts elsewhere. He couldn’t shake the nagging feeling that he needed to know more. The invaders were too close, their presence too persistent. How could they just stand by and watch?

He glanced toward the jungle in the distance, the thick canopy visible beyond the city’s shield. Somewhere out there, foreigners, strangers from a world Necalli had never seen, were pushing against the edges of their hidden world.

As the game came to an end, Necalli wiped the sweat from his brow, his mind already made up. He had to find out more. He couldn’t just stand by while his father and the council debated behind closed doors. Dorado was in danger, and he wasn’t going to wait for someone else to act.

Necalli left the courtyard with a purpose. It was time to confront his father.

Ultimate One Universe: Emergence

<Snipped quote by Half Pint>

This is just one part, of something that will happen once or twice so I wouldn't be in a massive panic just yet.

My goal is to try and facilitate interaction in ways that are manageable (not too many people at once), but also fun and work witn the stories YOU guys want to tell.

@Sep

Sounds good captain, looking forward to seeing what it could be

Ultimate One Universe: Emergence

Damn Duncan and Neville better get a move on if they want to be in America in time for this event lol. Necalli has a better chance of getting there quicker with what I’ve got planned so I’ll focus on him for the time being!

Ultimate One Universe: Emergence

Volume 1 - The Heir of Dorado

The Hunt Begins

---

The dense canopy of the jungle swayed with the symphony of nature. Leaves rustling, creatures stirring in the underbrush, birds fluttering and flying around the trees, but Necalli was silent. He was crouched, obscured by foliage and gripping his short spear tightly in his hand. Slowly, purposefully, he drew his weapon back, raising his other arm forward to guide his throw. His eyes traced the outline of his prey, a tapir, oblivious to his presence as it foraged among the low hanging branches.

Just as Necalli steadied his breath and prepared to strike, there was a sudden crack, a twig snapping somewhere behind him. The tapir's ears perked up, its head jerking toward the sound. Necalli’s eyes widened.

"No..."

Before he could react, his friend, Tepe, burst through the bushes, waving wildly.
"Necalli! Wait, I-"

The tapir bolted, crashing through the jungle with surprising speed for its size. Necalli groaned under his breath and shot a glare at Tepe, who stood frozen, hands raised in a sheepish attempt to apologize.

"You're supposed to warn me before you charge in! I almost had it there!" Necalli hissed, already sprinting after the fleeing animal.

Tepe, laughing nervously, took off behind him.
"I thought I did!"

The two of them tore through the jungle, branches whipping at their faces and mud splashing beneath their feet. The tapir, now spooked, darted between trees and thick foliage, forcing Necalli and Tepe to abandon any attempt at stealth.

"How is it this fast?" Tepe shouted between breaths, stumbling over a root as he tried to keep up. "It's like it knows we’re terrible at this!"

"It definitely knows how bad you are at this, it and the whole of Dorado!" Shouted back Necalli, letting out a small laugh in between panting as he sprinted. "Maybe if someone didn't trip on every branch in the jungle, we'd have caught it by now!"

The chase carried on, with Necalli and Tepe crashing through the greenery, each misstep becoming more ridiculous than the last. Necalli's spear arm had long since been lowered, this wasn’t a hunt anymore, it was a race, and a losing one at that.

Finally, they skidded to a halt at the edge of a ravine. The tapir had managed to slip away into the underbrush on the other side, its snorts of triumph faintly audible through the trees.

Panting, Tepe doubled over, hands on his knees.

"Well...that was...graceful."

Necalli, shaking his head, leaned against a tree, catching his breath.

"Next time, Tepe, just watch where you put your feet." They both laughed, with Necalli giving Tepe a playful slap on the back.

"Think we have time for another hunt?"

"Nah, I'm already on thin ice with my dad, I wasn't strictly supposed to leave the city today after last week."

Necalli leaned back against the tree, still catching his breath as the two let out another giggle, when a voice called out from the shadows of the jungle.

"Thin ice, huh? That's an understatement. I think the tapir will be the least of your problems when we get back."

Necalli jumped slightly, startled by the sudden appearance of his older brother, Itzcóatl, standing with his arms crossed, a wry smile tugging at his normally stoic face. His tall, imposing figure was partially hidden by the dense foliage, but his presence was unmistakable. He stepped out into the clearing, shaking his head as he surveyed the scene. He was dressed in the sleek, modernized attire of Dorado's warrior elite; a sleeveless tunic made from a dark, shimmering material that hugged his muscular frame, its intricate geometric patterns woven with thread that glinted like silver in the light. Around his waist was a belt holding ceremonial decorations, subtle but undeniably regal. His pants, embroidered with vibrant red and gold symbols of Huitzilopochtli, tapered into sturdy sandals. Around his neck hung a necklace with a pendant displaying his namesake made from obsidian displaying an intricate pattern of intertwined serpents.

"How long have you been watching us?" Necalli asked, straightening up and narrowing his eyes in suspicion.

"Long enough to see you both lose a perfectly good meal," Itzcóatl replied, gesturing towards the direction where the tapir had disappeared. "I’ll be sure to let Father know how graceful the prince is at hunting these days."

Necalli winced, knowing full well that his father was already displeased with him for reasons far more personal than a missed hunt. "Come on, Itzcóatl, don’t make it worse than it is. You know how he gets."

Itzcóatl raised an eyebrow. "Oh, believe me, I know. He’s already upset about...well, certain rumors." He smirked, and Necalli blushed slightly.

Tepe, ever the awkward friend, tried to help. "We were just having some fun! It’s not like anyone’s keeping score, right? What's one failed hunt among friends!"

Itzcóatl chuckled softly, his serious demeanor momentarily softening. "Oh, I'm definitely keeping score. Or at least trying to, I think I lost count at maybe the 73rd animal you lost?" He grinned, Necalli rolled his eyes. "You being caught with that girl didn’t exactly earn you any favor either. He sent me to find you because you’ve already been gone longer than you were supposed to."

Necalli groaned, rubbing his face with his hands. "Of course he did."

Tepe, forgetting the trouble Necalli was in, reacted with a shocked expression, almost turning his entire body to face his friend as he spoke. "Wait a minute, Necalli. You were caught with a girl? You didn’t tell me! Who is she?"

Necalli shot Tepe a warning look. "It's not like that, Tepe."

Tepe's eyes widened, his tone teasing. "What? Not like that? Come on, man! You’ve gotta tell me everything! How did I not hear about this?!" Necalli responded with a look that could kill.

Itzcóatl patted him on the shoulder, his brotherly side showing through despite his teasing. "Don't worry, little brother. If anyone can charm their way back into Father's good graces, it's you. But maybe you should cool it on the whole 'getting caught in bed' thing, yeah? It doesn't exactly reflect well on father to have his heir fathering a child before he even wears the crown."

Necalli felt a knot tighten in his stomach at his brother's words. It was a truth they both understood but rarely discussed: Itzcóatl, despite his strength and skill, would never wear the crown. He loved Itzcóatl fiercely, not just as his brother but as the one who had always stood by him. The thought of him being unable to fulfill his rightful place as king, not due to a lack of ability but because of circumstances beyond his control, stung. Necalli never felt like he should have been the heir, if he could have been the bastard and let Itzcóatl be the next in line he'd have done it in a heartbeat. Still, he admired his brother for having the grace to joke about it, and for always being there for him.

Necalli grinned sheepishly. "I'll try my best."

"Let’s just hope your 'best' is enough this time." Itzcóatl replied. "And maybe next time, try to keep your activities to a more...discreet location."

Tepe nodded vigorously, eager to add his two cents. "Yeah, man! What's the fun in getting caught? That's like, the opposite of being smooth!"

Necalli let out a groan, shaking his head. "Trust me, I’m aware." His frown turned to a smile as he playfully punched Tepe's arm. "Plus, if anyone knows what the 'opposite of being smooth' is, it's definitely you, Tepe."

Tepe looked back at him, mouth agape as he rubbed his arm.
"I'm smooth! I'm totally smooth! I'm as smooth as pulque brother!"

With that, Itzcóatl turned and motioned for them to follow. "Come on, you two. We should head back before Father sends a search party into the jungle."

---

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue across the dense jungle, Itzcóatl led his younger brother and his friend through the thick underbrush. The atmosphere was alive with the sounds of chirping insects and rustling leaves, but their movements were careful and deliberate. One wrong turn and you'd be face to face with a panther in this maze. Necalli's heart raced in anxiety, knowing they were nearing the secret entrance to their home, inching ever closer to the wrath of his father.

They arrived at a moss covered rock face that seemed indistinguishable from the rest of the jungle. Itzcóatl stepped forward, pushing aside the thick vines and foliage that concealed the entrance. A narrow opening yawned before them, leading into the darkness of a hidden cave.

"Almost home." Itzcóatl said as he ducked inside. The cool air greeted them, filled with the earthy scent of damp stone.

Inside, the cave twisted and turned, the walls glistening with moisture. As they ventured deeper, the cave was dimly lit by patches of bioluminescent fungi clinging to the rock, illuminating their path with a soft, ethereal glow. The faint sound of dripping water echoed in the background as they exited the passage into a grand cavern adorned with intricate carvings and shimmering crystals embedded in the walls. The vibrant patterns depicted tales of bravery, love, and sacrifice, stories that defined the history that Necalli was due to continue.

At the far end of the chamber, a heavy stone door blended seamlessly with the cave's walls. Itzcóatl approached, pressing a sequence of symbols hidden within the intricate carvings on the walls. With a rumble, the door slid open, revealing a blinding light beyond. They stepped through the threshold, momentarily shielding their eyes from the brightness.

As their vision adjusted, they found themselves standing at the edge of their home, Dorado. Towering, brightly colored buildings rose around them, adorned with intricate patterns and reliefs that celebrated their culture. Huge trees intertwined with sky bridges and buildings, seemlessly blending the nature within the jungle and the advanced technology of the hidden city. The air was filled with the sounds of laughter, chatter, and the hum of technology, a stark contrast to the silence of the cave.

They stepped further through the entrance and Necalli turned his head upwards and traced the huge dome shield that enveloped and concealed his home. The shimmering barrier pulsed with energy in vibrant purple hues. It had been built centuries ago, and improved on continously since then. Never had it been penetrated and very rarely had they even came close to being discovered. Vibranium was a hell of a thing. It was entirely invisible from the outside, looking only like an impenetrable wall of trees.

"Welcome back, princes!" a guard called out, standing tall in his ornate armor, the insignia of Huitzilopochtli proudly displayed. His tone was respectful, with an undercurrent of familiarity.

"Thanks, Xipil" Itzcóatl replied, giving a nod as he moved ahead. The two had known Xipil since they were little boys. He'd suffered a nasty leg injury early in his career that prevented him from being a more active member of the Dorado guard, but still stood proudly at the gate, ready to catch any invaders as they entered, or any mischevious princes as they exited.

"A little heads up lads, your father's not in the best mood" Xipil added with a chuckle. "I'd steer clear of him for a while if I were you."

Necalli grimaced. "I wish I could" he muttered, knowing all too well that avoiding his father was nearly impossible.

They walked through the bustling streets glancing at the various people; merchants peddling vibrant fabrics, artisans crafting intricate jewelry, and children laughing as they played in the plaza. The scent of spices wafted through the air, mingling with the sound of music drifting from a nearby celebration.

"Man, I really hope we don’t get into trouble." Tepe said, glancing around nervously. "I'd rather not face your dad right now."

Necalli chuckled nervously. "You think I want to? The most you'll get from him is told off for leaving the city without permission. He’s probably already written up his next big lecture about my 'responsibilities.'" He stopped for a moment, weighing up what he was about to say next before he did. "You know, sometimes I wish I could just blend in like everyone else." He sighed. "No responsibilites, no royal drama, no eyes on me every time I take a step-"

"No class, no brain, no idea what you're doing." Interjected his older brother with a grin. "None of that and none of the good food at the royal feasts. I'll take the royal drama for that at least."

As they approached the grand entrance to the palace, the imposing structure loomed above them, a testament to the rich history and power of their lineage. The palace's façade was adorned with intricate carvings of their gods and ancestors, shimmering in the fading light. Large, ornate doors of polished obsidian stood at the front, flanked by guards in ceremonial attire, their spears resting against the ground as they stood at attention. One of the guards nodded at Necalli and Itzcóatl.

"Your father is expecting you, my lords." he said his voice tinged with sympathy. As they entered the guard placed a firm hand on Tepe's shoulder. "Not you I'm afraid, Huey Tlatoani Moquihuix has already spoken to your parents, Tepe. I'd hurry home now if I were you."

Necalli caught Tepe's expression as he stepped further into the palace. He looked like he'd seen several thousand ghosts all at once.

They passed through the grand hall on the way to see their father. It was lit by torches and golden light fixtures embedded in the walls. The marble floor was inlaid with gold, and at the far end sat the throne, carved from a single massive piece of jade. It was empty, far too late in the day for their father to be present here. He'd be in the council room no doubt. Necalli's eyes locked onto the throne, almost like they were drawn to it. He'd sit there one day, and he hoped it wasn't anytime soon.

They rose up a large winding staircase and opened the door to the council room. Inside, the room was illuminated by natural light pouring in from high windows. His father, the king, sat at the head of the long table, flanked by advisors. He looked up, his expression shifting from a mixture of weariness and stern authority to surprise at the sight of them.

Necalli approached, head slightly bowed, with Itzcóatl flanking him. "Father, I—"

His father raised a hand, silencing him. "You disobeyed me again, Necalli." His voice was calm, but the weight behind his words was unmistakable. "You left the city without permission, despite the warnings I’ve given you." He rose from his seat and waved off his advisors. Most of whom took a quick look at Necalli before quietly gathering their paperwork and scurrying off out of the door.

Necalli felt the weight of his father’s gaze, a mixture of disappointment and worry that made his stomach churn. "I know, Father. But it was such a nice day and I just got this new bow I thought I-"

He was cut off again. His father's voice becoming harsher, and more direct.

"No, Necalli, you didn't think. It seems you think less and less these days." He rounded the table, approaching his sons. He was a man of impressive stature, his long, silver streaked hair tied back, and his face etched with lines that spoke of both wisdom and the heavy burden of leadership. He wore a regal robe adorned with vibrant colors and patterns that represented the gods of war and wisdom. His eyes, dark and intense, were fixed on Necalli. "This isn't about a simple hunt. It’s about your recklessness. You are my heir. You cannot continue acting as though the weight of this city does not rest on your shoulders."

Necalli's heart sank further. He knew the lecture was coming, and there was little he could say to stop it. He made the mistake of showing this in his expression.

"You think this is a game?" His father's voice grew even stricter, his gaze flicking between his sons. "While you play in the jungle, there are threats out there, threats you've never faced, dangers you can't even comprehend. One day, you will sit on this throne, Necalli, and if you're not prepared, everything our ancestors built will crumble."

Necalli clenched his fists. "I'm trying, Father. I'm just—"

"Itzcóatl was always ready" Moquihuix interrupted, his gaze softening briefly as it shifted to Necalli’s brother. "He understands what it means to lead. You need to learn from him, or Dorado will fall under your rule."

The words stung, more than Necalli would ever admit. He glanced at his brother, who stood silently, not meeting his gaze.

"I'll do better" Necalli said quietly, his voice barely above a whisper.

His father regarded him for a long moment before finally nodding. "See that you do." He rose from his throne, the weight of his presence filling the room. "Go. Reflect on what I’ve said. We will speak more of this soon."

Without another word, Moquihuix turned and walked toward a side door, his robe trailing behind him, leaving Necalli and Itzcóatl standing in the vast, silent hall with his thoughts swirling. His older brother placed a friendly hand on his shoulder once his father was out of earshot.

"You know he doesn't mean all that, Necalli. He loves you, he just wants to make sure you'll be ready for when it's time to take his place."

Necalli stood in silence, his eyes fixed on the floor. He sighed heavily, his voice still quiet. "I don't know if I'm cut out for this, Itzcóatl. Being king...it's just so much. The responsibility, the pressure... I feel like everyone's watching me, waiting for me to be perfect. I just want to be normal sometimes, live without all these expectations. But I can't."

Itzcóatl listened quietly, his hand still resting on Necalli’s shoulder. Necalli continued, his voice shaky. "What if I can't handle it? What if I’m not strong enough to lead Dorado the way father does? Everyone expects me to be this great leader, but all I can think about is how easy it would be to mess it all up. I never asked for this."

Itzcóatl took his hand off Necalli's shoulder and slid it into his pocket. Taking a moment to choose the right words.

"Necalli, the truth is no one ever feels ready for this. Not even Father. The crown isn't something you just grow into overnight. It's a process, one that'll take time, and mistakes. You're not supposed to have it all figured out already."

Necalli frowned. "But it feels like I should, like everyone's expecting me to be this perfect version of what a king should be. And the more I think about it, the more I just want to be normal. To live without the constant pressure. Sometimes I think you're the one who should be heir. You seem...better at this."

Itzcóatl chuckled softly, shaking his head. "I've had my share of screw-ups too, trust me. Father might push you harder, but that’s because he sees what you’re capable of, even if you don’t see it yet. It's not about being perfect, it's about learning from every failure, every challenge. And when it's time, you'll lead in your own way. You won't be Father, and that's okay. You're Necalli, and that's who Dorado will need."

Necalli felt some small weight lift off his shoulders. That insecurity still held within his heart, but knowing he had his brother there to support him made everything feel a lot less scary. A smile crept up on his face.

"I guess you're right, I just wish the old man would stop hounding me about it. These lectures feel like they get longer every time!"

Itzcóatl let out a laugh. "Just be thankful you've not got Tepe's parents, remember the last time you two got into trouble? They had him shovelling manure for a week!"

Necalli laughed along with him. "When you put it that way maybe the lectures aren't so bad!"

Itzcóatl smiled, stepping back toward the door. "Come on, let’s get out of here before father changes his mind and decides to give you a similar punishment. We can at least enjoy the night before tomorrow brings another crisis."

Ultimate One Universe: Emergence

@Half Pint accepted.

Just yeah. Accepted.

I totally hadn't written myself into a corner I struggled to get out of which lead to a subpar post.

No sir, no way.

@Sep

Thank you! I've added it to my characters on the character sheet tab. I've been writing up a post this morning so should hopefully have it out by this evening

Ultimate One Universe: Emergence

Black Panther

C H A R A C T E R C O N C E P T P R O P O S A L

B L A C K P A N T H E R

(Yohualli Ocelotl)

---

^{"As long as I breathe, Dorado will not fall."}

^{_{N E C A L L I D O R A D O C U A U H P I L L I ♦ W A R R I O R - P R I N C E ♦ D O R A D O}}

O R I G I N S:

---

The hidden city of Dorado lies deep within the rainforests of Central America, long shrouded in myth and legend. Governed by ancient traditions and ruled by a sacred lineage, Dorado’s people worship the gods of the earth, sky, and sun, drawing their strength from the extremely valuable and precious resource, vibranium, which they call "tecuhtli," the blood of the gods. Necalli, the latest in this divine bloodline, was destined to lead from birth. Trained in the arts of war, diplomacy, and spiritual practices, he is destined to inherit the mantle of Yohualli Ocelotl, the protector of Dorado, upon his father’s death.

Recently, reports have surfaced of modern invaders, equipped with advanced weapons, encroaching on the edges of Dorado’s hidden borders. Necalli, foreseeing greater threats on the horizon, has urged his father and the council to strengthen the city’s defenses. He forsees a world where isolation is no longer enough to protect Dorado, but his warnings fall on deaf ears, viewed as fear mongering that risks disturbing the peace.

Determined to safeguard his people, Necalli grows increasingly conflicted. His vision for Dorado’s survival stands in stark contrast to the conservative stance of the council, and the growing divide within the royal court threatens not only his future as their leader but the very security of the city itself.

S A M P L E P O S T:

---

The jungle was alive with the hum of insects and the distant cries of animals, but it was the unnatural buzz of drones slicing through the night air that caught Necalli's attention. His form, crouched in the dense shadows of the jungle like a big cat waiting to strike, was a silent specter, unseen by the intruders below. The red dots of laser sights crisscrossed through the underbrush, painting lines of death on the trees and ground. He could hear the faint murmur of voices over radio chatter, the sound distorted by their helmets and body armor.

"Fan out." one of the voices crackled through the radio, authoritative and stern. "We've got good intel it's in this area. Remember, if you see anything moving, shoot on sight."

Beneath his jaguar mask, Necalli's lips tightened into a grim line. These weren’t ordinary invaders, no clumsy conquistadors stumbling in search of gold or silly explorers with too much money and time on their hands looking for their chance at fame. These were professionals: armed to the teeth, outfitted with the latest military tech. Their gear was the kind of cutting-edge equipment only the most powerful nations or corporations could afford. But no matter how advanced their tech, they made the same mistake all outsiders made, they underestimated the jungle.

And they underestimated him.

Sliding silently down from his perch high in the trees, Necalli's fingers brushed over the hilt of his macuahuitl. The ancient weapon had been reforged with vibranium, its obsidian blades sharper than any modern steel, able to cut through metal, flesh, and bone with equal ease. The cold of the weapon against his skin grounded him, reminded him of his purpose. These men came for Dorado, for its secrets. They would leave with nothing but death.

One of the soldiers paused below him, his boots sinking slightly into the wet soil. He lifted his rifle, sweeping the muzzle across the darkness, unaware of the predator above. Necalli struck fast and without sound. He dropped from the canopy, landing silently with lethal precision. The vibranium edge of his macuahuitl sliced through the man’s armor as though it were nothing more than cloth. The soldier collapsed, dead before his body hit the ground.

Necalli darted back into the shadows as the others turned, confused by the sudden silence of their comrade. Their laser sights flashed across the trees, fingers tensing on triggers. They think their machines and guns will save them, Necalli thought, moving with the grace of a jaguar. But in this jungle, they are prey.

"We've got a man down!" Shouted one of the soldiers, panic setting in as the remaining men formed a tight circle formation and began sweeping the trees for movement.

A drone hovered above the treeline, its camera sweeping back and forth, now searching for what killed the invader. Necalli's eyes narrowed beneath his mask. He threw a small, round object, a piece of vibranium-infused tech of his own design. It clamped onto the drone’s underside, a brief flash of blue light before the drone sparked and crashed into the undergrowth, its systems fried. The forest swallowed the sound.

"They’re taking out the drones!" one of the men shouted, his voice rising in panic. "They know we’re here!"

I am not 'they', Necalli thought coldly, his body already a blur as he moved silently to flank them.

He circled around, watching as the team tried to regroup, their nervous chatter betraying their fear. They were good, disciplined, highly trained. But this was his domain. A pair of soldiers inched forward, their helmets reflecting the dim light from their tactical displays. Necalli moved in again, his macuahuitl swinging in a deadly arc. One soldier’s rifle was severed in two, his chest following moments later. The second soldier barely had time to scream before a Vibranium spear buried itself in his torso, thrown from the shadows.

Now the the two remaining were panicking. Necalli could hear it in their voices, see it in the erratic movement of their laser sights. They fired wildly into the trees, wasting bullets on shadows. He moved through the chaos with cold precision, using the dense treeline as cover as he crepy from branch to branch.

He watched as they panted heavily, fear etched across their faces as they struggled to unload and reload their guns for the shaking of their hands. Necalli gently slid the bow from around his chest and knocked a vibranium tipped arrow on its string. It flew threw the air with only the yell of pain as it struck one of the soldiers chest to announce its arrival.

The last soldier stood alone, his breathing ragged as he spun around, his back to a tree, clutching his rifle like it was a lifeline. The red dot of his laser swept across the underbrush, trembling with fear. Necalli watched him for a moment, hidden, unseen. The soldier’s radio crackled with static.

"Command, we’ve been, there's something here. We-I need evac! Now!"

Necalli stepped down into the clearing, his presence quiet, almost serene. The soldier froze, his eyes widening behind his visor as the jaguar mask emerged from the shadows. He lifted his gun, finger trembling on the trigger.

"Don't" Necalli warned, his voice low. "You’ve come far enough. Don't end up like your friends."

The soldier hesitated, the weight of fear holding him in place. He half considered pulling the trigger, but luckily for him he was too late. With a final, swift movement, Necalli disarmed him, his macuahuitl cutting through the rifle with surgical precision. The soldier stumbled backward, falling to the ground, his wide eyes reflecting the vibrant golds and reds of Necalli's cloak.

"The jungle protects what is sacred." Necalli murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "And you are not welcome here."

The soldier scrambled backward, his breath coming in panicked gasps, and then he turned and ran, crashing through the underbrush like a wild animal fleeing a predator. Necalli didn’t follow. Let the man tell his story. Let them know what awaited any who sought to take from Dorado.

As the jungle returned to its natural silence, Necalli stood alone among the fallen, his gaze distant. His father would disapprove of this, he knew. This wasn't their way, this open confrontation with the outside world. But the outside world was closing in, and Dorado had to be defended. No matter the cost.

With one last glance toward the horizon, where the lights of distant invaders flickered in the distance, Necalli disappeared into the night.

P O S T C A T A L O G:

---

A list linking to your IC posts as they're created. This can be used for a reference guide to your character or to summarize completed interactions and stories.

Ultimate One Universe: Emergence

<Snipped quote by Lord Wraith>

I mean.

If that's something people want, I'm willing to do it. I'm willing to rework things, bring about the initial threat a bit quicker work better to help facilitate interaction.

@Sep

I have another character cooking, but if this were to happen I think I’d probably keep my Black Knight posts the same. I’m working on getting him to a location where interaction with other characters could happen, but with him along with the other one I’m putting the finishing touches on I think the first arc being solo adds to the “day one” plot for the characters. Personally I’m happy establishing their own world, enemies, and supporting cast for a bit before I get involved in someone else’s.

Ultimate One Universe: Emergence

I'm hoping to get it finished tomorrow, but I don't know what I'm doing so don't know what time I'm gonna have. Monday evening by the latest, as I'm off on Monday.

How is everyone doing? It's quiet in here now.

@Sep

I’m doing well! Really enjoying writing the Black Knight but trying to pace myself so I don’t get too far ahead and run out of steam! I’m training for a competition in December and my training will intensify in the next while so going to need to juggle that with writing my posts, but I WFH so easy enough to skive off and write parts here and there haha

Ultimate One Universe: Emergence

Volume 1 - Beggar Knight

The Awakening Beast

---

Duncan led the way as the trio entered through the door. The passage was pitch black, save for the torch lighting their way. They crept slowly along the sandstone, none of them saying a word for fear of beckoning something from the darkness. The air was cold and stale, it caught in their throats like dust. Their careful steps were well advised as they felt the ground beneath them begin to gradually turn and lower, turning in a spiral downwards for what seemed like an eternity.

Finally relief, Omar felt a brazier on the wall brush his shoulder as they moved, Duncan quickly lit this, illuminating the space around them. He turned to Omar, handing him the torch silently before tearing a sizeable part of the sleeve from his robe, bunching it up and lighting it on fire before dropping it down the centre of the spiral. It fell for an anxious eternity before finally hitting the ground. Mehdi peered over, making sure to not stand too close to the edge. The walkway went down for 6 or 7 rotations. Mehdi had lived in these sands all his life, seen Petra, Jerash, the lot. But he had never seen anything like this. Who had made this? Who had lived so deep beneath the surface to craft such passages?

The three finally reached the bottom of the room. They hadn't said a word since the stone door had opened. Nothing had felt right since they entered this room. It was like they were being watched, no it was like some malovolent force knew they had crossed into its domain, like it had been expecting them.

Another passage lay open at the end of the room, a long, sloping passage that carved from ancient stone, its walls lined with large, weathered bricks. The corridor was dimly lit by flickering torches mounted at regular intervals along the walls, casting eerie shadows that danced across the uneven surfaces. Omar tried to mask the feeling of worry that threatened to overwhelm him as he spoke up.

"The torches" He spoke pointing down the hallway. "They're lit this time, who has been down here?"

Duncan paused, his eyes narrowing at Omar's words. The flickering flames down the passageway were impossible to ignore. Freshly lit torches deep beneath the desert sands, where no man should have walked for centuries meant only one thing, they were not alone.

"Stay close." Duncan muttered, his voice low, wary. His grip tightened on his mace, the cold metal grounding him in the surreal moment. He could still feel the residual pain in his chest, but now it was coupled with an instinctual dread. The air here felt wrong, heavier than before, as if thick with something ancient and malicious. Something was drawing him deeper.

Mehdi’s eyes darted nervously between the torches and the passage ahead. "If someone, or something lit those, then they know we’re coming," he whispered, gripping his rifle tighter.

"Then there's no point sneaking around anymore" Duncan said, forcing himself to move forward. The pain in his chest flared again as they made their way down the hallway, sharper this time, but he pressed on. The corridor seemed to stretch forever, but as they ventured deeper, they began to hear a faint hum, low and rhythmic, like a heartbeat reverberating through the walls. It was almost imperceptible at first, but with each step, it grew stronger. Duncan’s heart ached in sync with the sound, pulling him forward despite every sense telling him to turn and run. None of the three mentioned the noise to each other, and the only words spoken in this corridor were by Omar, his grip tight on his blade, muttering something under his breath in Arabic; a prayer, or perhaps a curse.

Finally, the corridor widened into a vast circular chamber. The ceiling was impossibly high, vanishing into the blackness above them, and the floor was covered in strange, glowing, intricate carvings that seemed to form a large, spiraling pattern. At the center of the chamber, bathed in a faint, eerie glow, stood an altar. Resting on it was a set of armour, unlike anything Duncan had ever seen. This what was drawing him beneath the sands, what had called him here.

Mehdi and Omar cautiously followed Duncan into the room, their eyes scanning the area for any danger, both with their hands ready on their weapons, every fibre of their being was calling out in danger within this room. Their eyes traced the carvings and patterns decorating every inch of every surface in the room. Duncan, however could not take his eyes off of the armour. It was like he was hypnotised. No explanation was forthcoming but it felt like he was seeing an old friend for the first time in years, the first familiar face since waking up in his tomb.

The armour resting on the stone altar radiated a dark, ancient energy, and the closer Duncan got to it the more intense the feeling of pain in his chest grew. Its surface was sleek yet jagged, the blackened metal etched with intricate designs that flowed like the muscles of a lithe predator. The plates curved and contoured to mimic the body of a fierce creature, its power coiled beneath, ready to spring into lethal action.

The helmet was angular and fierce, its design exuding a silent, menacing power. The faceplate extended into a tapering snout-like shape, its sleek, jagged lines hinting at the primal savagery of a beast without fully committing to its image. Its narrow eye slits glinted faintly in the dim light and subtle ridges ran across the crest. The whole helm carried an air of viciousness, a visage that invoked the image of a wolf. Around the collar, thick tufts of dark gray fur spilled outward, completing the sense that this armour was more than just metal, it was the embodiment of something wild and dangerous, waiting to be unleashed.

The pauldrons flared out to the sides, their shape recalling powerful shoulders built for quick, precise movement. They curved down like haunches poised to spring, the plates layered in a way that allowed for swift action while still providing formidable protection. The chest piece was ridged and contoured, crafted with overlapping segments that mimicked the sinew of a predator’s body.

The gauntlets extended into sharpened, claw like points at the fingertips, and the legs of the armour were similarly crafted for both speed and power with similar overlapping segments to the chestpiece.

Draped over one shoulder was a tattered red cape, once vibrant but now dulled and torn as though it had been through countless battles. The crimson fabric clung to its side, torn in long, ragged strips, flowing down just before half of the length of the armour.

Mehdi and Omar noticed Duncan approaching it. The two looking at each other before quickly moving over to Duncan and placing a hand on his shoulder. Omar spoke first.

"Duncan, brother that...thing. It doesn't feel right let's ready ourselves before getting any closer." Mehdi nodded.

"Yes, for all we know it's what's been causing the Ghul to rise, it could be dangerous."

Duncan broke from his hypnosis only partially, stopping in his tracks but his gaze could not break free from the armour.

"It's alive."

"What?"

"The armour. It's alive. It's what's been calling me down here."

Before Mehdi could react, the ground beneath them trembled. From the walls, stone began to crack and fall away, revealing movement beneath. Slowly, two grotesque figures broke from underneath the carved stone. They were massive creatures, hunched and twisted, their flesh grey and mottled, with glowing eyes. Their bodies were wrapped in chains, ancient shackles that clanked ominously as they clambered up. The three knew what this place was meant to keep out. The Elder Ghul, what those things on the surface would grow into if they didn't stop them. The source of this invasion.

The three readied their weapons as the hulking monstrosities grew to their full height. Even hunched over they towered like goliaths over the three men, heaving and breathing heavily as black drool dripped from their gnarled fangs. The creatures lunged forward, snarling, their chains whipping through the air as they bore down on the trio.

The three moved quickly, dodging and rolling out of the path of the two as they readied a counter attack. Mehdi fired his rifle, the bullets hitting their targets but barely slowing the creatures down. Omar swung his blade, catching one of the monsters in its calf, but it barely flinched, instead bringing its massive chained fists down toward him. Duncan lunged at the other and swung his mace overhead at it, colliding with its shin. It quickly swung its head around to him, and swiped at him with its long pale arm. Duncan couldn't react in time, and was sent flying across the room, colliding with the altar holding up the armour.

He clutched his leg as he pushed himself up with gritted teeth. He tried to stand and fell back again, his leg was fractured, if not broken. He looked up at his allies, Omar was doing his best to hold up the fist of the giant beast, but his strength was faltering, he would be crushed soon. Mehdi was struggling to reload through constant dodges of the other behemoth's attacks, he was panting heavily and tripping more and more as he made sloppy ducks and rolls.

Duncan's resolve was wavering. Did he spend that eternity in the darkness just to return to it after such a short time awake? Just to watch his friends die again? He couldn't let it end here, not in this tomb buried thousands of miles away from his homeland. He knew what he had to do, using his hand to force himself to his feet, stumbling slightly as his bad leg tried to give way.

Using his hands, he steadied himself against the alter and turned himself around to face it. With one last look over his shoulder at the desperate situation behind him he made his decision. He was going to give the armour what it wanted.

Duncan’s vision blurred as he reached the armour. His heart felt like it would explode, but he couldn't fight the urge any longer. He reached out, his hands trembling, and grasped the helm. To his shock the armour grabbed back, turning into an almost quicksilver like substance and melting its way up his arms and around his body. He felt it tighten around him as though the metal itself had a life of its own. The cold steel pressed into his skin before warming, fusing with his very flesh. The pain in his chest flared, but now it was as though the power within the armour was awakening in response, amplifying his strength. His heartbeat pounded in rhythm with something deep and primal, an ancient force that thrummed through the metal, waiting to be unleashed. In the dim light of the chamber, Duncan stood transformed, a dark figure, his silhouette sharp and predatory, no longer the prey of these foul beasts.

A moment lasted eternity as he felt his spirit lift from inside the armour, to heights he had never seen and to a time that felt even further back than the one he came from. In an instant his mind was transported to another place, while his body remained in the tomb.

It was a place of eternal blackness, darker than dark. For a moment a sense of fear shook him, had he banished himself to another lifetime of darkness? Would this be one he'd never escape? And then the small twinkling lights of distant stars began popping into his view, before they were almost blinding.

His spirit hovered in the void for what seemed like an eternity. The stars around him pulsed like dying embers, but as his gaze lingered, they grew brighter. The shimmering glow began to coalesce, forming jagged, fracturing shapes. He saw it then, the Ebony Blade, or what was left of it, floating before him in fragments, its pieces scattered like shattered glass across the infinite sky. Each fragment pulsed with a heartbeat that resonated within Duncan’s own chest. His heartbeat thudded, sending a wave of pain through his body, as the realization struck him. One of the shards, the largest and most jagged, was missing from the blade. He felt something in his chest, burning like a sun and pulsing in time with the shards in front of him. Then he realised, the last piece was lodged deep inside his heart. The moment he had woken in his tomb, that shard had been there, embedded in his flesh, its cursed power intertwined with his own life force. That was why the pain had worsened the closer he came to the armour. The blade and the armour shared the same ancient power, both forged from the same malevolent starstone, both part of the same dark curse.

The realization hit Duncan like a hammer. Every ridge, every etched line in the dark metal armour he had adopted pulsed with the same ancient energy that had once flowed through the Ebony Blade. In his mind's eye, Duncan could see flashes of what the armour could do, movements too fast for the human eye, blows strong enough to shatter stone, and a ferocity that rivaled even the most savage of predators. But the cost of such power was steep. Just as the blade had thirsted for blood and battle, the armour demanded a toll. He could feel it now, pulling at his mind, dulling his senses, its hunger an unyielding force that could devour him if he let it. The more he wielded the armour's strength, the more it would take his body, his mind, his soul, until there was nothing left but the beast within. He could not defeat the curse last time, he would make sure he would learn to control it now.

His chest throbbed as he reached out to the floating shards of the blade in the void, and they vanished, reabsorbed into the armour. The stars winked out, one by one, until only darkness remained. The void receded, and Duncan’s spirit crashed back into his body with the force of a tidal wave.

The tomb came back into focus, but everything was sharper now, the darkness less oppressive. He could see the faint shimmer of the chains on the ghuls as they moved, smell the acrid stench of their rot as they clawed toward Mehdi and Omar. He could hear their labored breaths, every strained movement, as if time itself had slowed. Duncan’s vision pulsed red, his heartbeat now in perfect sync with the armour's thrumming power.

With a roar that reverberated through the chamber, Duncan surged forward. Each step felt light yet powerful, as if the armour was pushing Duncan forward, almost urging him into a hunt. His mace felt weightless in his hands now, swinging with the force of a mountain behind it. He slammed the weapon into the first ghul’s chained arm, the sound of cracking bone and metal filling the chamber as the creature staggered backward and let out a guttural yell. Duncan didn’t hesitate, he lunged forward, driving his armoured fist into the creature’s chest, the claws at the tips of his gauntlet ripping through its flesh with a sickening tear. Blood sprayed across the chamber floor as the monster howled in agony.

The second ghul barely had time to react before Duncan was upon it. He ducked under its sweeping chains, moving with a speed that left it flailing in confusion. With one swift, fluid motion, he leapt forward, grabbing the chains with his hands and yanking them downards. The beast fell to the ground with a crash and Duncan sped forward just as fast, wrapping the chains around the goliath's throat and snapping it's neck with a torque of his grip.

Breathing heavily, Duncan straightened, the armour's power coursing through him like fire in his veins. He could feel its hunger, its insatiable thirst for more violence, more bloodshed. The beasts lay broken at his feet, but deep within the armour, something still stirred. Something that wanted to keep fighting, to keep killing, until there was nothing left to stand against it.

Omar and Mehdi stared in stunned silence, their weapons still raised, but it was clear they were no longer necessary. Duncan turned to face them, his chest heaving, his heart still pounding in time with the armour's dark rhythm. He could feel the weight of their eyes on him, a mixture of awe and fear, but he couldn't focus on that. Not now.

"The camp. There's no time to spare, without the Elder Ghul their numbers will dwindle. Let's end this."