Cerberus Cup First Round: Zack Fair vs. Terranort

[terranort]

Cerberus Cup
First Round

[/b][/u][/center]

The crowd roared with anticipation as the elder satyr approached the middle of the arena.

Alright, this here's the Cerberus Cup!"

[/b] The crowd roared in anticipation as soon as the tournament name escaped his mouth. "Rules are simple: Two losses and your out, each round is decided at random by the fates themselves, and the last man standing is the Cerberus Cup Champion and will be deemed a true Hero by the gods!"[/b]

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

This round ends on March 1st, and there is a 72 hour (3 day) post time limit.

Posting Order[/b] - Zack Fair, Terra-Xehanort[/blockquote]

[zackfair]

Theme for this Post: Gokai Change!-Kaizoku Sentai Gokaiger OST

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,450px,true][atrb=cellspacing,0px,true][atrb=style, width: 450px; background-color: #0D0D0D; padding: 25px; padding-bottom: 40px!important; text-align: center; border-radius: 100px; -moz-border-radius: 100px, bTable] [STYLE=display: inline-block; background: url(http://i402.photobucket.com/albums/pp108/zackcloudluver/char-zack.jpg); border-top-left-radius: 50px; -moz-border-radius-topleft: 50px; height: 100px; width: 100px;] [/style] [STYLE=display: inline-block; background: url(http://i402.photobucket.com/albums/pp108/zackcloudluver/char-zack.jpg); height: 100px; width: 100px;] [/style] [STYLE=display: inline-block; background: url(http://i402.photobucket.com/albums/pp108/zackcloudluver/char-zack.jpg); height: 100px; width: 100px;] [/style] [STYLE=display: inline-block; background: url(http://i402.photobucket.com/albums/pp108/zackcloudluver/char-zack.jpg); border-top-right-radius: 50px; -moz-border-radius-topright: 50px; height: 100px; width: 100px;] [/style] [STYLE=color: #EBEBEB; font-family: arial; font-size: 9px; text-transform: uppercase; text-align: justify; width: 405px; margin-top: -3px; background-color: #333333; border-left: 10px solid #0A2436;]Prepare the weapon, this battle ends when I give in. I lose my head I lose my mind I lose my mind. Time passes by, falls out of sight. And I can't look back I'm losing my fight. Blinded by this light all truth is gone..gone..gone[/style] [STYLE=border-bottom: 10px solid #0A2436; color: #EBEBEB; font-size: 30px; text-transform: lowercase; letter-spacing: -1px; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; font-family: georgia; line-height: 11px; text-align: right; width: 403px; margin-top: -16px; padding-right: 12px; text-shadow: #080808 5px 1px 1px;] IN CHARACTER ✗ [/style] [STYLE=border-left: 10px solid #0A2436; color: #EBEBEB; font-size: 9px; font-family: verdana; text-align: justify; width: 405px; background-color: #333333;]The Olympus Coliseum was active today. Crowds of people were practically rushing to fill the seats in the stands, for today was a special day. One that was long awaited. That's right, today was the day the long awaited Cerberus Cup was taking place, and as we all know, there's one thing the people of this world like seeing, and that is heroes in action, pitted against one another in contests of strength and wit. Days like this were the days a certain SOLDIER who was familiar with this world loved most. That glowing Mako infused sky blue gaze of Zack's practically shone brighter than usual in anticipation for the day."Oh yeah! Tournament day!" he exclaimed as he began his usual routine of squats whenever he was excited. "I..can't...wait. I'm gonna win this thing for sure and show Phil..that..I'm...A REAL HERO!!!" Speaking of Phil, it had been a little bit since he had seen the Satyr and glanced about the lobby for him, trying to see if maybe he had gotten stuck under a stool or something or was just hiding from him. "Phil?" he called out, waiting a couple minutes only to get silence in return. "Oh well! I like being surprised by opponents anyway. Makes the butt kicking I give them all the more enjoyable." Soon enough, the announcement of the tournament started outside, causing Zack to stop his squats and remove the Buster Sword from his back. Sighing, he turned it so that the flat end of the blade faced him and closed his eyes, resting his forehead against the blade for a moment as he took a minute to remember everyone who had helped get him this far. Aerith, Angeal, Cloud.....all of them. "Angeal, I'll make you proud." he said quietly. "I'll show them what honor is all about." Once the announcements were done, Zack's eyes narrowed as he twirled the Buster Sword in his hand about four times before bringing his arm up and placing it in its rightful place on his back. "LET'S DO THIS!' he yelled excitedly before taking off at a full sprint towards the entrance to the Coliseum. Once he got clear of the doorway and the bright light hit his face, he crouched down, using the momentum gained from his speed to leap into the air, somersaulting while airborne and landing neatly on both feet onto the arena itself. Each member of the audience was given a rather confident grin as the Buster Sword was drawn from his back once more, the materia he kept with him shining a bright blue, green, red, or yellow int he various locations they were loaded into his very body. Giving the Buster Sword another quick twirl before he grasped the handle in both hands, he stood there, confidant as always as he took a battle stance. He didn't know much about his opponent, however that didn't matter. He'd do what he'd been taught to do. Win at all costs while maintaining his honor.[/style] [STYLE=border-bottom: 10px solid #0A2436; color: #EBEBEB; font-size: 30px; text-transform: lowercase; letter-spacing: -1px; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; font-family: georgia; line-height: 11px; text-align: right; width: 403px; margin-top: -16px; padding-right: 12px; text-shadow: #080808 5px 1px 1px;] OUT OF CHARACTER ✗ [/style] [STYLE=border-left: 10px solid #0A2436; color: #EBEBEB; font-size: 9px; font-family: verdana; text-align: justify; width: 405px; background-color: #333333;] ✗ TAGS:Terranort ✗ LYRICS:Prepare Your Weapon: Escape the Fate ✗ COMMENTS:Let's do this![/style] [STYLE=color: #EBEBEB; font-family: arial; font-size: 9px; text-transform: uppercase; text-align: center; margin-bottom: -20px;]template by darkee of btn.[/style]

[terranort]

It was that time again: The crowds were roaring, and venders were plentiful. That could only mean that it was time for another tournament in the small world of Olympus. Every tournament held a plethora of vastly unique individuals, all gathered for the small sum of Munny and the prestigious title of champion. This tournament seemed to be a little more special than the rest, as many fans were looking as this as the little cousin to the looming Hades Cup. He’d heard a few enthusiasts refer to this as a preliminary tournament to prove who or what would be holding the very precious number one seed for said tournament. Xehanort, however, could care less about becoming a Hero and being a favorite for a different tournament.

Terra-Xehanort was here for only one reason: He was scouting for potential vessels for Lord Xehanort himself. The elder ‘Nort was short just one powerful vessel from filling up his team. Everything was to build up for that moment when the Thirteen Darknesses finally fill their roster and the second Keyblade War begins. At that point Master Xehanort’s plan will finally come to fruition and Kingdom Heart will finally be theirs.

As Terranort finally made his way into the waiting room he glanced over at the rules. So, this was a double elimination tournament, perfect. With the participants entered, surely between Young Xehanort and himself the two would be able to scout all the entrants and determine who, if anyone, would be a likely candidate to hold Xehanort in their heart. There was no bracket for this tournament, and it seemed that each round would be decided at random. That could turn out to be both beneficial and a drawback to both of the Xehanorts entering. They could be pitted against one another early on, and they could be eliminated early as such. When the first round lineups were announced, Terranort nodded in slight relief as Young Xehanort was pitted against some young boy with a tail and he was pitted against another man named Zack.

This individual almost seemed familiar to the vessel of Xehanort, but not enough to pay any attention to in great detail. As the two warriors approached the field of battle, Terra-Xehanort could sense the anticipation in him. He had a strong urge for battle, almost as if he were still a child awaiting Saint Nicholas to come. Unfortunately, the man’s scent was nearly as far away from the darkness as he could get. This man was of no use to the Xehanorts, and Terra-Xehanort could care less what happened to him on the field of battle.

The man’s enthusiasm continued even as Terranort revealed himself by removing his hood. Zack might have recognized him as the young man he’d battled over ten years ago, but Terranort sure didn’t nor did he care. He released a dark aura around him as his keyblade quickly summoned itself to his right hand. Halfway relaxed, he held himself in an open posture as the battle was signaled to begin.

”You will not be so enthusiastic when you realize what power the darkness brings upon this vessel. When this day is over, you will be crippled by its power.”

[/b]

Terranort said nothing else as he quickly dashed forward, through Zack, attempting a diagonal slash from Zack’s right shoulder through his the left side of his ribs. After completion of the attack, he stuck the blade into the arena’s tile and used it as a pivot point to quickly turn himself so that he wouldn’t turn his back upon his opponent.

He immediately continued his onslaught by pointing his keyblade at the young warrior and releasing a barrage of dark bullets at him. While each bullet was insignificant by itself, if they were to hit in bulk, the damage would vastly accumulate. Dark Volley was one of the few remaining techniques that Terra had gained prior to becoming a vessel for Master Xehanort.

Terranort finally used the mayhem behind this Shotlock to quickly sneak up on Zack and attempt a massive slam with his keyblade. If all went according to plan, then Zack would taste the earth itself as Terra-Xehanort’s strike was meant to send him reeling sideways into the stands. The crowd remained eerily quiet and anyone not already on the feet awaiting the results of the already heavy hitting battle remained shocked from the acquired speed that the Xehanort vessel had acquired since the last time he’d fought Zack.

Before this tournament was to see an ending, the darkness would be seen as the true threat it really was. The total accumulation of Master Xehanort’s knowledge and Terra’s physical prowess had reunited and created the devastating combination seen on the field. Terra vs. Zack II was bound to be a match to remember for various reasons.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Moves used:
1. Dashing slice
2. Dark Volley
3. Slam into the stands

Cooldowns

Dark Volley: 2 posts[/blockquote]

[zackfair]

[url=Theme for this post: Dismiss, Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep OST[/url]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,450px,true][atrb=cellspacing,0px,true][atrb=style, width: 450px; background-color: #0D0D0D; padding: 25px; padding-bottom: 40px!important; text-align: center; border-radius: 100px; -moz-border-radius: 100px, bTable] [STYLE=display: inline-block; background: url(http://i402.photobucket.com/albums/pp108/zackcloudluver/char-zack.jpg); border-top-left-radius: 50px; -moz-border-radius-topleft: 50px; height: 100px; width: 100px;] [/style] [STYLE=display: inline-block; background: url(http://i402.photobucket.com/albums/pp108/zackcloudluver/char-zack.jpg); height: 100px; width: 100px;] [/style] [STYLE=display: inline-block; background: url(http://i402.photobucket.com/albums/pp108/zackcloudluver/char-zack.jpg); height: 100px; width: 100px;] [/style] [STYLE=display: inline-block; background: url(http://i402.photobucket.com/albums/pp108/zackcloudluver/char-zack.jpg); border-top-right-radius: 50px; -moz-border-radius-topright: 50px; height: 100px; width: 100px;] [/style] [STYLE=color: #EBEBEB; font-family: arial; font-size: 9px; text-transform: uppercase; text-align: justify; width: 405px; margin-top: -3px; background-color: #333333; border-left: 10px solid #0A2436;]Prepare the weapon, this battle ends when I give in. I lose my head I lose my mind I lose my mind. Time passes by, falls out of sight. And I can't look back I'm losing my fight. Blinded by this light all truth is gone..gone..gone[/style] [STYLE=border-bottom: 10px solid #0A2436; color: #EBEBEB; font-size: 30px; text-transform: lowercase; letter-spacing: -1px; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; font-family: georgia; line-height: 11px; text-align: right; width: 403px; margin-top: -16px; padding-right: 12px; text-shadow: #080808 5px 1px 1px;] IN CHARACTER ✗ [/style] [STYLE=border-left: 10px solid #0A2436; color: #EBEBEB; font-size: 9px; font-family: verdana; text-align: justify; width: 405px; background-color: #333333;]Pure adrenaline flowed through every fiber of Zack's body as his opponent made his way to the arena, that glowing Mako infused gaze fixated upon him, watching for the slightest of movement. However, what Zack wasn't ready for was for his opponent to pull down his hood and give the former SOLDIER a surprise that would stick with him for the remainder of battle, be it good or bad. His opponent...even after all these years was none other than his friend Terra whom he had fought in this very arena over ten years ago. Something seemed off as he allowed his gaze to linger for a moment, gloved hands tightening their grip upon the Buster Sword. It looked like Terra...but same time there was just...an all too familiar feeling about him, one that Zack knew all too well thanks to Hades all those years ago. "Hey Terra! Long time no s..." he started to say before Terra-Xehanort had started to speak and came toward him with that slash, the speed behind it of course naturally caught Zack off guard as it sent him reeling back some, however he quickly caught his balance just in time to see the Dark Volley bolts coming at him. Instinctively, he began to swing his weapon around in attempt to deflect as many as he could either back at his opponent, or at least away from him. Despite his best efforts, he found himself starting to get pushed back from the bolts, and some of the ones he hadn't been able to deflect had hit him in his chest and his knees, causing him to go off balance and left him open to be slammed into the stands by Terra-Nort's slam. "Alright...so now I know you aren't Terra..." he said as he pulled himself up to his feet, wincing from the slight burns his legs and chest felt and breathing heavily. Of course, he wasn't quite ready to cast Curaga yet...feeling he could take maybe a little more. "He was strong, but he wasn't that strong. I don't know who you are, but I can tell you're full of darkness, and it's time for me to repay the favor Terra once did for me in this place." He was on his feet now, Buster Sword gripped in both hands. This guy...whatever he was it was bad. Really bad, and right now much as he needed a hero back then, Terra needed a hero as well to pull himself from whatever darkness was possessing him. The thought of a hero, however triggered something deep within Zack's subconsious as data on Genesis began to combine with his strong emotion to protect his friend and be the hero Terra needed right now. All of his previous battles with Genesis began to flow through his mind, causing his body to begin to float in the air as red runes filled with the text of the final chapter of LOVELESS soon filled the very area around the arena, but not the stands, including the very same spot Terra-Xehanort happened to be standing. Show me...the true power...of SOLDIER! rang Genesis's voice in Zack's mind as he removed his left palm from the Buster Sword and channeled green energy into his palm before raising it up into the air and unleashing a barrage of several green bolts just like Genesis thanks to the DMW allowing him the use of his limit break apocoalypse. Naturally of course not all of these were likely to hit, and those that didn't would fill the arena with the sound of stone being destroyed while dust and smoke filled the arena. Snapping back to reality however as his body landed softly feet first back upon the ground, Zack would take advantage of this moment provided Terra-Xehanort was caught off guard by that attack and charge forth, channeling one of the Yellow Materia located in the Buster Sword, causing it to take on a golden yellow aura as he lunged forth, and should Terra Xehanort still be there, swing that massive blade towards him. Now, because Exploder Blade materia got triggered, if Terra-Xehanort were to take the hit or block it, he'd get sent reeling back regardless due to the explosion happening upon impact. All provided he did either of the two of course. "Come on Terra snap out of it! Actions: 1. Blocked some of Terra-Xehanort's Dark Volley 2. Apocalypse DMW Limit 3. Charged towards Terra-nort utilizing the power of the Exploder Blade Materia in the Buster Sword Apocalypse: When faced with strong emotion or a powerful memory of Genesis, Zack may call on this limit break. His body rises into the air as runes with the lost chapter of LOVELESS appear beneath him. Green energy forms in his hand as he raises it into the air, unleashing several bolts of energy upon his foes. Cooldown 4 posts Note: Unable to use another DMW until this one's cooldown is done Exploder Blade: When this materia is triggered, Zack swings with his weapon, triggering a powerful shockwave upon impact. Shockwave will still trigger if this materia has been triggered and his sword gets blocked, knocking the opponent back. Cooldown: 2 posts[/style] [STYLE=border-bottom: 10px solid #0A2436; color: #EBEBEB; font-size: 30px; text-transform: lowercase; letter-spacing: -1px; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; font-family: georgia; line-height: 11px; text-align: right; width: 403px; margin-top: -16px; padding-right: 12px; text-shadow: #080808 5px 1px 1px;] OUT OF CHARACTER ✗ [/style] [STYLE=border-left: 10px solid #0A2436; color: #EBEBEB; font-size: 9px; font-family: verdana; text-align: justify; width: 405px; background-color: #333333;] ✗ TAGS:Terranort ✗LYRICS:Prepare Your Weapon: Escape the Fate ✗ COMMENTS:Let's do this![/style] [STYLE=color: #EBEBEB; font-family: arial; font-size: 9px; text-transform: uppercase; text-align: center; margin-bottom: -20px;]template by darkee of btn.[/style]

[terranort]

This post's theme: Asking Alexandria: A Single Moment of Sincerity

The opening struggle had begun with little to no hesitation from Xehanort’s part. He had definitely caught the SOLDIER off guard and managed to connect a good deal of the damage he sought out. It was weird, he recognized the face as familiar, and he could disregard it, but the fact that this man could also see some previous connection was no coincidence. He must be an acquaintance of Terra, his former self. [purple]Repay the favor? Does he think Terra unwillingly gave himself up? Last time, sure, he had no choice, but this time he chose to become a vessel for Master Xehanort.

[/color][/i] It didn’t matter, it would not affect the he fought this battle. This man still held no use to the Thirteen Darknesses.

”You can try to ‘avenge’ Terra, but he doesn’t want vengeance. Terra chose this honor.”[/b]

As Zack was sent reeling against the stadium wall, Terranort could already sense retaliation brewing. Even if Zack were to accept Terra willingly becoming a vessel, the boy still wanted to win this tournament. Xehanort, wise as he is, could not have predicted such a powerful retaliation. The runes that appeared around Terra-Xehanort should have been an immediate clue that this would be a target for something, but arrogance can get the best of a ‘Nort from time to time. When the first bolt landed immediately behind him, Xehanort was quickly aware of what was happening. He managed to dodge the next couple blasts, but even he was now powerful enough to dodge the entirety of this attack. The searing blasts cut through his cloak in a couple of places, namely the center of his back and his right shoulder, but no major damage was done.

Before the dust could clear, he noticed the SOLDIER was making use of the same tactic he just had. Xehanort knew enough of battles to see when someone was trying to use a blast as a diversion to get in close and inflict physical damage. Hell, he was partial to the exact same tactic. The problem lied in that he did not have time to dodge this blast, and he needed the aide of the darkness to escape harm’s way.

”COME GUARDIAN![/b][/size]

The blade detonated against the iron-like hide of an entity of darkness. Darkness began to swirl around the hip of Xehanort and, as it began to rise, it became the solid muscular form of the Guardian. With one hand he managed to block the Exploder Blade, but with the other he had the fragile neck of one Zack Fair lodged firmly in his grasp. Xehanort folded his arms and began floating upwards to within a foot of the young man’s face.

”You urge for Terra to fight the darkness inside of him, but know that it hopeless. For darkness exists in all things, and the man you once knew has taken a firm grasp of what was rightly his to possess. You would do well to take an example from his lead. However, I can sense that you won’t. You will remain defiant until your final breath. Prepare yourself, the darkness is not forgiving.”[/b]

The entity threw the young man forward, as if he were nothing but a rag doll. Meanwhile, in his left hand, he had already begun charging a great deal of energy. As soon as Zack hit the highest part of his aerial arch, Guardian released the first spherical bomb towards the SOLDIER’s projected landing spot. If this timed out well enough, he would no sooner land than immediately face the first blast. The second bomb was immediately charging after the release of the first. It would be approximately a second later the Dark Orbs reached its full effect by the landing of the second blast.

This would not be enough. The power of Xehanort should be known by everyone. This boy would serve as an example to the rest of the tournament that they should bow before the vessels and accept the darkness. Guardian raised his hand to the empty space above his opponent and a gigantic bolder of burning rock appeared. This was Terra’s version of Meteor and it would be nearly impossible to dodge if his victim had indeed felt the full impact of the Dark Orbs. Guardian quickly dropped his arm, and, with it, the Meteor fell directly onto the position of Zack Fair.

”Submit to the darkness!”

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Actions Used:
1. Guardian deflects Exploder Blade
2. Dark Orbs
3. Meteor: Terra version

Cooldowns and Durations:
Guardian: 3 posts remaining
Dark Orbs: 2 post cooldown
Meteor: Terra Version 3 post cooldown
Dark Volley: 1 post cooldown[/blockquote]

[zackfair]

Theme for this post: Never Surrender-Combichrist, DmC OST

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,450px,true][atrb=cellspacing,0px,true][atrb=style, width: 450px; background-color: #0D0D0D; padding: 25px; padding-bottom: 40px!important; text-align: center; border-radius: 100px; -moz-border-radius: 100px, bTable] [STYLE=display: inline-block; background: url(http://i402.photobucket.com/albums/pp108/zackcloudluver/char-zack.jpg); border-top-left-radius: 50px; -moz-border-radius-topleft: 50px; height: 100px; width: 100px;] [/style] [STYLE=display: inline-block; background: url(http://i402.photobucket.com/albums/pp108/zackcloudluver/char-zack.jpg); height: 100px; width: 100px;] [/style] [STYLE=display: inline-block; background: url(http://i402.photobucket.com/albums/pp108/zackcloudluver/char-zack.jpg); height: 100px; width: 100px;] [/style] [STYLE=display: inline-block; background: url(http://i402.photobucket.com/albums/pp108/zackcloudluver/char-zack.jpg); border-top-right-radius: 50px; -moz-border-radius-topright: 50px; height: 100px; width: 100px;] [/style] [STYLE=color: #EBEBEB; font-family: arial; font-size: 9px; text-transform: uppercase; text-align: justify; width: 405px; margin-top: -3px; background-color: #333333; border-left: 10px solid #0A2436;]Prepare the weapon, this battle ends when I give in. I lose my head I lose my mind I lose my mind. Time passes by, falls out of sight. And I can't look back I'm losing my fight. Blinded by this light all truth is gone..gone..gone[/style] [STYLE=border-bottom: 10px solid #0A2436; color: #EBEBEB; font-size: 30px; text-transform: lowercase; letter-spacing: -1px; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; font-family: georgia; line-height: 11px; text-align: right; width: 403px; margin-top: -16px; padding-right: 12px; text-shadow: #080808 5px 1px 1px;] IN CHARACTER ✗ [/style] [STYLE=border-left: 10px solid #0A2436; color: #EBEBEB; font-size: 9px; font-family: verdana; text-align: justify; width: 405px; background-color: #333333;]Zack's eyes widened as Terra-Xehanort's Guardian appeared and blocked the Exploder Blade with ease and seemed to shrug off the shock waves that normally erupt from that attack. Before he could even react, he found himself snatched up by his throat, gasping for air as he was lifted, feet kicking about wildly as he struggled to free himself. This..this was bad. A smirk was offered to the entity before him as he listened to Terra-Xehanort's speech, which only would serve to drive Zack to attempt to reach Terra somehow. Before he could even get a word out, he found himself airborne, fist clenching as a single red materia began to glow. The sky above began to darken as the sound of thunder boomed, causing the entire stadium to shake. As he began his descent, the cloud's moved together and began swirling down, almost as if they were creating a tornado. As Zack's descent began to increase in speed, a single light began to shine through the darkened sky before something large and massive burst through the cloud's like a beacon of hope. A loud, earth shattering roar soon filled the entire arena followed by the explosion and cry of pain of Zack's impact as he hit that first dark orb and was bounced upward. Roaring loudly, the King of Dragon's himself Bahamut flew towards Zack, positioning itself so that it's body landed directly between SOLDIER and second orb while Zack landed on the dragon's back with a loud 'Oomph'. "You sure took your time Bahamut!" said Zack with a grin as he painfully brought himself up to a sitting position, quickly casting Curagato deal with his injuries and restore some of his energy. However it appeared that his opponent was far from done. "OH HELL NO!" exclaimed Zack as he looked up and saw that Meteor forming high above in the sky. "Bahamut buddy, think it's time we went all out. Let's blast his overgrown rock clear back at him!" Bahamut however, seemed to be one step ahead of Zack as it had already begun charging energy into it's mouth at the site of the meteor above. "Come on buddy hurry!" said Zack impatiently as the Meteor descended closely. Giving one final roar, that massive beam of energy erupted from Bahamut's mouth, Megaflare meeting Meteor in attempt to defend against the impact of such a powerful attack. Depending on how this goes, either the two were likely going to cancel each other out, Zack was going to fail, or Terranort would wind up eating his own attack. Hoping for the best, Zack quickly jumped off of Bahamut's back, somersaulting once and landing upon both feet, gazing up at the sky to await what happens next. Actions: 1. Summoned Bahamut who caught Zack mid route to second orb 2. Zack cast Curaga upon himself to heal wounds 3. Bahamut used Megaflare in an attempt at defending Zack from Terranort's meteor, will disperse upon next post after seeing Terra's response. Pending Cooldowns: Apocalypse: When faced with strong emotion or a powerful memory of Genesis, Zack may call on this limit break. His body rises into the air as runes with the lost chapter of LOVELESS appear beneath him. Green energy forms in his hand as he raises it into the air, unleashing several bolts of energy upon his foes. Cooldown 3 posts Exploder Blade: When this materia is triggered, Zack swings with his weapon, triggering a powerful shockwave upon impact. Shockwave will still trigger if this materia has been triggered and his sword gets blocked, knocking the opponent back. Cooldown: 1 posts Curaga: The highest tier in the Cure spell tree. This ability will heal a majority of his or an allies wounds. Cooldown 3 posts. Bahamut: The King of Dragons himself. When he is being summoned, the sky will become dark and cloudy, with the clouds themselves twisting for a moment as if a tornado is about to start. Bahamut burst through the clouds surrounded by a field of energy before standing and dispersing the field surrounding him. Bahamut is capable of high speed flight, however his speed pales in comparison to that of Bahamut Fury or Bahamut Zero. When summoned, he lasts for three posts, fighting valiantly next to Zack and even allowing him to ride upon his back should an opponent take to the sky. Cooldown: 5 posts, dispersed upon Limit Break use. Cooldown not initiated until dispersed or limit break is used. Bahamut Limit Break: Megaflare By flying high into orbit itself, Bahamut gathers energy into its body before channeling it into his mouth, unleashing a powerful orb of pure concentrated energy capable of leveling entire cities should whoever wields him choose to do so. Against opponents however, Megaflare just deals very heavy non elemental damage. Cooldown: None, Disperses Bahamut and starts the cooldown upon use. (Note: Yes I realize the summon is normally linked to the DMW in Crisis Core, however given the fact there's 3 different games plus Advent Children I felt it was best to go with Advent style with summoning for a more realistic approach.)[/style] [STYLE=border-bottom: 10px solid #0A2436; color: #EBEBEB; font-size: 30px; text-transform: lowercase; letter-spacing: -1px; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; font-family: georgia; line-height: 11px; text-align: right; width: 403px; margin-top: -16px; padding-right: 12px; text-shadow: #080808 5px 1px 1px;] OUT OF CHARACTER ✗ [/style] [STYLE=border-left: 10px solid #0A2436; color: #EBEBEB; font-size: 9px; font-family: verdana; text-align: justify; width: 405px; background-color: #333333;] ✗ TAGS:Terranort ✗ LYRICS:Prepare Your Weapon: Escape the Fate ✗ COMMENTS:Let's do this![/style] [STYLE=color: #EBEBEB; font-family: arial; font-size: 9px; text-transform: uppercase; text-align: center; margin-bottom: -20px;]template by darkee of btn.[/style]

[terranort]

This post’s theme - Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep: Terranort Theme

As a the legendary beast, Bahamut, soared through the sky, Terra-Xehanort couldn’t help but grin. This battle was going precisely the way he wanted it to. He was ripping the SOLDIER apart, piece by piece, and, when he was through, this man would cease to exist entirely.

The massive dragon arrived just in time to save the man from the second Dark Orb. Terra-Xehanort quickly realized that his opponent had casted a restorative magic upon himself, recovering him from a good deal of his energy. Terranort couldn’t help but notice that he still had his own nagging injuries from the Apocalypse technique that the young man used, but he felt he hadn’t taken enough damage from that to warrant healing, yet.

The dragon’s use hadn’t ended yet. It began to charge a massive amount of energy, presumably to deal with the Meteor technique Xehanort had just sent to attempt an end to the battle. The dragon launched a massive burst of power upwards, and the searing beam made direct contact with the Meteor. At first, it seemed to merely be keeping the blade in place, just as if Atlas were holding up the world. However, the vessel noticed that the Meteor wasn’t holding up to the power of Megaflare. In an instant, the blast barreled through the entirety of the large bolder and, within a massive blast of light, destroyed the ability, scattering chunks or rock throughout the arena.

During the mayhem of the confusion, Xehanort took it upon himself to continue his offensive. If Zack were to have looked down at him during the Megaflare/Meteor duel, he would have seen that Guardian was no longer comfortably chained to his side. The vessel sent him on a special mission. Somehow, in the madness, the dragon had disappeared, leaving Zack upon the tournament floor once again. Xehanort quickly dashed forward, keyblade firm within his grasp. Just before he was to close into striking range of his tournament opponent, Master Xehanort’s Keyblade changed form, into a massive Ultima Cannon that immediately launched a blast straight for Zack.

The moment this blast was launched, Guardian re-emerged behind the SOLDIER. He immediately grabbed him by wrapping his arm around Zack’s own arms and head in a full-nelson hold, thus leaving his entire mid-drift exposed. It was hard for anybody to escape harm’s way once the Guardian used his Grab technique.

Xehanort, now very close to Zack, couldn’t see to what extent his attack had proven useful, but he somehow figured it wasn’t as much as he could have hoped for. Now, calmly walking towards his opponent, Terra-Xehanort sought to end this battle, once and for all.

”I refuse to see why you still reject your fate. The darkness will devour you on this day, no matter how hard you try. I am merciful, and I will allow you one final moment to speak your heart’s wish before I end your existence. Do not waste this time pleading to the heart which I have possession.”

Terra-Xehanort stood still for a moment before he raised his keyblade in what should be his final attack of the battle. He silently closed his eyes and began letting his key do the work. He poured a great deal of physical energy into one powerful slash going from Zack’s right shoulder clear through his left hip. He then attempted a horizontal slash through his mid-drift before a powerful slam with the broad side of his key. As he opened his eyes, he began to inspect the scene before him.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Note: Zack and I discussed the grab before I assumed its success.
Moves used:
1. Ultima Cannon
2. Grab
3. Physical combination.

Cooldowns and Durations:
Ultima Cannon: 2 posts cooldown
Grab: Ends immediately after physical combo (Cooldown starts next post)
Guardian: 2 posts cooldown
Dark Orbs: 1 post cooldown
Meteor: Terra version: 2 posts cooldown
Dark Volley: Now usable

[zackfair]

Theme for this Post: Prepare Your Weapon-Escape The Fate

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,450px,true][atrb=cellspacing,0px,true][atrb=style, width: 450px; background-color: #0D0D0D; padding: 25px; padding-bottom: 40px!important; text-align: center; border-radius: 100px; -moz-border-radius: 100px, bTable] [STYLE=display: inline-block; background: url(http://i402.photobucket.com/albums/pp108/zackcloudluver/char-zack.jpg); border-top-left-radius: 50px; -moz-border-radius-topleft: 50px; height: 100px; width: 100px;] [/style] [STYLE=display: inline-block; background: url(http://i402.photobucket.com/albums/pp108/zackcloudluver/char-zack.jpg); height: 100px; width: 100px;] [/style] [STYLE=display: inline-block; background: url(http://i402.photobucket.com/albums/pp108/zackcloudluver/char-zack.jpg); height: 100px; width: 100px;] [/style] [STYLE=display: inline-block; background: url(http://i402.photobucket.com/albums/pp108/zackcloudluver/char-zack.jpg); border-top-right-radius: 50px; -moz-border-radius-topright: 50px; height: 100px; width: 100px;] [/style] [STYLE=color: #EBEBEB; font-family: arial; font-size: 9px; text-transform: uppercase; text-align: justify; width: 405px; margin-top: -3px; background-color: #333333; border-left: 10px solid #0A2436;]Prepare the weapon, this battle ends when I give in. I lose my head I lose my mind I lose my mind. Time passes by, falls out of sight. And I can't look back I'm losing my fight. Blinded by this light all truth is gone..gone..gone[/style] [STYLE=border-bottom: 10px solid #0A2436; color: #EBEBEB; font-size: 30px; text-transform: lowercase; letter-spacing: -1px; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; font-family: georgia; line-height: 11px; text-align: right; width: 403px; margin-top: -16px; padding-right: 12px; text-shadow: #080808 5px 1px 1px;] IN CHARACTER ✗ [/style] [STYLE=border-left: 10px solid #0A2436; color: #EBEBEB; font-size: 9px; font-family: verdana; text-align: justify; width: 405px; background-color: #333333;]A loud explosion rocked the entire arena as Megaflare pushed through Terra-Xehanort's Meteor, filling the sky with hurtling rocks that scattered throughout as smoke filled the air the ground shaking violently from the shockwave of the explosion, causing Zack to stagger down to one knee. "OH YEAH!" he yelled excitedly, losing his focus for the briefest of moments as he celebrated his victory, a mistake that would likely cost him. Before he could even make a move, Terra-Xehanort's Guardian appeared behind him and took him into a full nelson. "Hey! Let me go damn it!" said Zack through gritted teeth as he struggled, completely oblivious to his foe's attacks. Simultaneously with the grab, Terra-Xehanort's Ultima Cannon hit full force, actually shattering the upper portion of his armor with the impact as Zack cried out in pain from the burning sensation and bruising that came with the impact. However his opponent wasn't done yet, and the impact of Keyblade against bare torso was enough to knock the breath out of Zack before his opponent earned yet another cry of pain, grip upon the Buster Sword loosening before it dropped upon the stone arena with a loud clang. His body soon began to loosen, vision going blurry due to the high level of pain he had just been exposed to as he slowly slipped in and out of consciousness, truly wishing to give up for a moment. "He's too powerful..." he thought to himself as the Guardian dropped him upon the ground before returning to it's Master, leaving Zack to lay there upon the stone for the briefest of moments. "Maybe I should just give up..." he thought to himself. At that decision, something pulled at the back of his mind, the memory of when he had been possessed by the Darkness. Terra hadn't given up on him, he had kept fighting even when all the odds were against him to help him get freed from Hades grasp. Now, now his friend needed him to do the same. "H...hey..." he groaned out as his eyes opened, arm extending so that he could close his hands around the handle of the Buster Sword. Slowly and shakily he began to pull himself up, bringing the Buster Sword up a little to use it as a stand as he pulled himself to his feet. Wobbling slightly, he actually shook back and forth for the briefest of moments, vision going in and out for a moment as Terra-Xehanort split into two for just a moment before Zack's vision finally refocused. He was in bad shape. Cuts, burns and bruises covered the majority of his torso from his opponents attacks and armor shattering. Were it not for SOLDIER enhancements and conditioning along with sheer willpower, he would likely be unconscious right about now. "You talk of this Darkness being all powerful. How it will take over. But ya know what pal? I've been possessed by it." Slowly the Buster Sword was taken into both hands before being brought in front of his body. "It's power..I won't deny it is strong. But it's not all powerful. I managed to get free of it with the help of a true friend. One who fought me with honor despite my lack of it." A smirk appeared on Zack's face next as a blue glow emanated from his right wrist as very rare and powerful materia began to get triggered. "If you had any honor you wouldn't have done whatever you did to Terra. I know he's in there somewhere, and I know he can hear me. But if you think there was honor in whatever you did to him well.....prove it." said Zack, that glow from his wrist glowing brighter. "Prove your honor to me!" said Zack, his words practically showing Angeal's influence on him throughout his life. As he spoke, he removed his right hand from the Buster Sword and launched the spell towards Terra-Xehanort, unleashing three powerful fire balls towards Terra-Xehanort. To those unfamiliar with it or to the untrained eye, this would appear to be a Triple Firaga spell, however that was not the case. This was very rare and powerful magic forged from the Lifestream itself. This...this was Hell Firaga, and those fireballs not only had a homing effect, but they had nasty side effects as well if one were to be hit by them. Within seconds of launching the Hell Firaga towards Terra-nort, yellow materia in his ankle shined for the briefest of moments as Zack painfully leapt into the air, ascending higher than normal into the air thanks to the Jump materia he had just channelled. Hoping Terra-nort wasn't expecting the Homing Effect of the Hell Firaga and got inflicted by it's side effects, Zack began to descend for the nice aerial advantage strike the Jump Materia gave, channeling the second materia located in the Buster Sword. A yellow glow emanated once again as Zack brought the Buster Sword over his shoulder, holding it in a similar fashion to Cloud when he was rising towards Bahamut SIN. Rapidly, he continued to descend, the very blade of the Buster Sword soon erupting into flames as the Firaga Blade materia activated. Somersaulting once in the air from the momentum gained from his aerial advantage, Zack descended, positioning himself so that he descended towards Terra-Xehanort and swinging the massive flaming blade towards him, grateful for the long reach of the Buster Sword. Regardless of if this blow connected or not, Zack would take a defensive stance after rising back to his feet, determined to find Terra in there..somewhere, as well as make all who had trained him and he had crossed paths with in life proud. Yes, for the first time since his revival, SOLDIER 1st Class Zack had finally found himself again, and was -not- about to give up. (ooc note: I talked with Terra regarding Guardian letting Zack go after his attack first and got the okay from him.) Actions: 1. Use of Hell Firaga. 2. Use of Jump Matera which is a 2 part ability. 3. Used Firaga Blade in conjunction with the second part of the Jump Materia's effect. Abilities used: DMW Limit: Apocalypse Cooldown Remaining 2 Posts. Exploder Blade: Ready for use next post Curaga: 2 post Cooldown remaining Summon Matera: Bahamut: Cooldown 4 posts remaining. Hell Firaga: Extremely powerful and very dangerous materia crafted via Materia Fusion. Zack launches three fireballs at his opponent that are capable of inflicting Poison, Silence, and Stop upon his foes if inflicted. The fireballs, unlike a normal Firaga hone in on the target they are directed out..however can be blocked by debris or obstacles. The duration for the affects are as follows: Poison: Weakens the foe for 2 turns Silence: Prevents use of magic attacks for 1 turn. Stop: Stops opponents from performing any action for the post they are struck by this spell. (Note: While I prefer at least poison to affect upon impact, it is up to those taking the hit to choose between Stop or Silence) Cooldown: 4 posts Jump: Simply what it says. Zack's standard jump is enhanced with this materia attached. His odds of dodging an enemies attack are increased as long as it is physical or not raining down from the sky or large in size if magic or a summon. During his descent back to the ground, Zack slashes with his sword, knocking any unfortunate soul to the ground should they happen to be within blade's reach of his landing. cooldown: 2 posts Firaga Blade: Created as materia to be imbued into a weapon. When Zack uses a bladed weapon imbued with this materia, the weapon imbued with this materia deals heavy fire damage. Cooldown: 3 posts[/style] [STYLE=border-bottom: 10px solid #0A2436; color: #EBEBEB; font-size: 30px; text-transform: lowercase; letter-spacing: -1px; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; font-family: georgia; line-height: 11px; text-align: right; width: 403px; margin-top: -16px; padding-right: 12px; text-shadow: #080808 5px 1px 1px;] OUT OF CHARACTER ✗ [/style] [STYLE=border-left: 10px solid #0A2436; color: #EBEBEB; font-size: 9px; font-family: verdana; text-align: justify; width: 405px; background-color: #333333;] ✗ TAGS:Terranort ✗ LYRICS:Prepare Your Weapon: Escape the Fate ✗ COMMENTS:Let's do this![/style] [STYLE=color: #EBEBEB; font-family: arial; font-size: 9px; text-transform: uppercase; text-align: center; margin-bottom: -20px;]template by darkee of btn.[/style]

[terranort]

Throughout history there have been many great fights, some even approaching legendary status. Rocky Balboa vs. Apollo Creed, Ali vs. Frasier, and Tyson vs. Holyfield all became iconic matchups of their time. This matchup featured Terra-Xehanort and Zack Fair fighting each other for the second time after over ten years since their first bout. This match, however, was more like David and Golliath, but nobody gave the young David a slingshot.

Terranort had no problems thus far handling the young SOLDIER, and it was apparent that this man couldn’t hold a candle to Xehanort’s power over the darkness. Blow after blow, Zack had yet to cause any severe damage to the vessel, and he was nearly to the point of physical exhaustion trying to keep up with Ansem the Wise’s former apprentice.

Crippled upon the tournament floor, Guardian returned to his side after releasing the would-be hero from the entity’s grasp. His feet once again left the tournament floor as he began to levitate once more, watching the sight of what he figured was his opponent losing consciousness. Just as his spark was about to fade, Xehanort noticed the warrior begin to speak. Was this to be his last words?

Before Xehanort had a chance to reply to him, Fair launched a triple fire blast towards him. It appeared to be a simple straight forward assault, so why would he waste his time assaulting him from the front? Guardian once again moved forward and used his torso to block the Hell Firaga, but it would seem that this was the distraction the Zack desired.

When the blast had ended, Terra-Xehanort scanned forward to see that the would-be hero was no longer there. A peek to either side showed him that he hadn’t been attempting a pincer attack, nor was anything approaching him from behind. Was this a distraction so he could run away? No. He wouldn’t spit off some great speech about honor and run away. That was when he saw it, a glare from the sun shining at his feet.

”What?!”

[/b]

Terranort’s eyes widened as he peeked up to see Zack Fair within inches of him. There was no way he was getting out of this one. The Firaga Blade slammed into his left shoulder, causing intense burns and a nice slash then went all the way down his side. That Curaga spell he neglected earlier, was in pretty dire need right about now, but he’d need the chance to cast it.

Xehanort stumbled backwards momentarily as Guardian returned to his back. After a second or two he regained his composure and took his feet from the ground once more. It was definitely harder to keep his face solid with a massive gash down his side, but it would be taken care of. He just needed a few seconds.

”…Touching. You forget that Terra chose this power. He chose to once again take the power you denied in this very arena.”[/b]

At that moment, Terra-Xehanort adjusted the sound of his voice to that of his former self, Terra.

”Zack, just go home. I chose this, why don’t you see that? I don’t need your help. I saw the power you had during our last match, and I wanted it. After I left this world, I followed a path to darkness, and now I have taken it as my own.”[/b]

Good enough. He knew that using Terra’s voice would buy him the time he needed to case Curaga. Bells appeared over his head and they released a green aura down onto him. Immediately, the wounds to his side closed up and he was nearly as good as new. He still had a few nagging pains, but he could definitely work with this. Zack, on the other hand, was still heavily injured. Xehanort doubted he had another attack like that in him.

It was time to end this round.

”My heart belongs to the darkness, as do all things. Everything begins and ends with darkness, as you will see. You too will end in darkness.”[/b]

Terra-Xehanort began charging towards the enemy, with darkness flaring up as if it were his own personal aura. He charged in for what should become the final confrontation. Starting with a few well placed slashes, the first from his right shoulder to the left side of his ribs, the second a vertical slash, and the third being an upward diagonal slash ending at the very same side of his ribs, Terra-Xehanort quickly fell into the ground before he jumped up, from right below the SOLDIER, and a gigantic fist of pure darkness emerged attempting one massive uppercut with all intentions on breaking his opponent. Dark Impulse was a cruel mistress.

”Now go, before I end what little remaining light is left in your heart.”[/b]

As ‘Ansem’ now stood in front of his enemy, he changed himself back to the stern look and voice that was Terra-Xehanort.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Moves used:
1. Guardian blocked Hell Firaga
2. Curaga
3. Dark Impulse

Cooldowns and Durations:
Curaga: 2 posts cooldown
Dark Impulse: 3 posts cooldown
Ultima Cannon: 1 posts cooldown
Grab: Cooldown 1 post
Guardian: 1 post remaining (disperses after next post)
Dark Orbs: Now usable
Meteor: Terra version: 1 posts cooldown[/blockquote]

[terranort]

Time is up! This battle is now under review.

[terranort]

Zack wins this battle by Decision! Terra-Xehanort's first loss has been recorded.