Elendor
Dwarven Spars
Tonight on Erebor Smackdown! Ranol VS. Warven, Frarin VS. Warven, Ranol VS. Frarin, Frarin VS. Braldor, and Braldor VS. Hildis!
Sort Date: no date set
Location: Buhr Mahrling
Description: It's late afternoon and the sun is offering warmth to all in the trade city. There's a gentle breeze on the more open streets, but here in the dusty training ring little airflow can be found today. Ranol is standing, talking with a couple of other dwarves and all three have sweat on their faces from time spent sparring, but they're joking and laughing. The huskarl has his sword resting against his shoulder, padded as always when training.
[Warven(#26511)]
Walking into the training grounds is the Stonewright Warven, as he walks the sound of ringmail "clinky" can be heard, he has his War hammer resting upon his shoulder and a pipe between his teeth and seeing Ranol he shouts "Master Ranol? How fares the training?" Pausing to remove the pipe from his mouth "Care for a rematch? Perhaps even start with your sword this time."
Ranol glances over when Warven addresses him and he grins. "Aye.. We can do that." He walks away from the other two Bundazanul dwarves and stops in a clear area. "Perhaps I will be more ready for your skill today." He says, chuckling.
[Warven(#26511)]
With a laugh Warven begins to pad the end of his War Hammer and says "That is what I worry about, let us hope I am a match for you on this day." Finishing of tying the pad upon the War Hammer Warven walks over to where Ranol is, standing about ten paces away and gets into a fighting stance and says "Ready when you are Master Ranol"
Ranol waits patiently until Warven says he is ready, then the huskarl moves in immediately, not wasting time. The two clan-karls walk off, less interested in watching a spar after a full morning of training themselves. Ranol leads with a fast slash with the flat of the blade at Warven's side.
You attack Warven with your Short Broadsword...
Warven dodges your attack.
[Warven(#26511)]
Jumping back just in time to see Ranol's blade just miss him and saying "Close..." Taking a step forward and swinging his War Hammer overhead at Ranol's right shoulder while he dose so.
Warven attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he hits! Ouch!
[Frarin(#31050)] The two clan-karls may drift away, but there is another dwarf who comes to the training area just as they are leaving it. Frarin is clad in a knee-length blue surcoat and his war hammer rests at his side. The smell of pipesmoke lingers on his person as if he is at his leisure for the time. For awhile he pauses at the edge of the training area, arms crossed over his chest, quite obvious in his watching of Ranol and Warven as they launch into a spar. Another spar, rather.
The silversmith says nothing for the time, though. Instead he moves further into the area, taking a seat on one of the benches and sitting with arms crossed as he watches the two.
Maybe it's that quick rush to try and get the jump on the Barazin that leaves the huskarl open to the counter-attack. Maybe Ranol is just packing away too many pastries these days. The Bundazanul takes the powerful hit to his shoulder, too slow at pulling up the shield in time to block. Not to be discouraged, Ranol brings his arm around overhead with a downstroke at Warven's arm.
You attack Warven with your Short Broadsword...
Your attack against Warven mildly wounds him!
[Warven(#26511)]
Attempting to bring up his shield to block the attack Warven feels the sting of Ranols blade upon his arm "Gah.." Jumping back he then side steps and lunges forward once more War hammer forward thrusting it at the Huskarl's middle.
Warven attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and you parry his attack with your Short Broadsword!
Ranol dodges aside quickly, his blue eyes focused as he concentrates entirely on the spar, determined to make a better showing today. He hasn't noticed Frarin's arrival, which is probably for the best because then he would feel more pressure. The huskarl moves in with a low swing at Warven's leg.
You attack Warven with your Short Broadsword...
Your attack against Warven mildly wounds him!
[Warven(#26511)]
Once again the Stonewright feels the sting of Ranol's blade, this time upon his leg, Stepping back Warven shakes his head and jumps forward once more, swinging his War Hammer sideways aimed at Ranol's right side, shouting as he dose so.
Warven attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he hits! Ouch!
ARB: You've been injured for 1 hp's by Warven's attack...
...you have 92 left. Please RP this injury accordingly.
Ranol doesn't recover fast enough and the hammer smacks into his side, the chain links ringing from the blow. He grins, enjoying this spar more than the last, obviously. The huskarl makes another overhead chop at the stonewright.
You attack Warven with your Short Broadsword...
Warven dodges your attack.
[Warven(#26511)]
Dodging to the side Warven sees the blade just miss his arm and then quickly steps forward and swings his War Hammer once more, downward in motion aimed at the Huskarl's sword arm and keeping his shield up as he dose so.
Warven attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he misses!
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin frowns, expression hard as he continues starring at the spar. He crosses his feet under the bench to match his crossed arms, looking very judgmental as he sits and watches. His eyes are narrowed, expression critical, though occasionally some move or another brings the slightest quirk of a smile to one corner of his mouth. But he does not interrupt.
Ranol has a better rhythym today, warmed up from practicing all morning. He sees the warhammer coming down towards his arm and instead of stepping back, he moves in closer, making a quick jab with the broadsword in under Warven's attack.
You attack Warven with your Short Broadsword...
Your attack against Warven mildly wounds him!
[Warven(#26511)]
Once again Warven feels the Sting of Ranol's blade, for though his shield was up, he had it raised too much leaving his middle exposed. Immediately after feeling the sting of the blade upon him the Stonewright twists and swings his War Hammer in a back handed motion aimed high at Ranol's shoulder.
Warven attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he misses!
Ranol is remembering the advice given to him by Frarin and Gimli, and watches how Warven draws the hammer back again to build momentum for his next attack. The huskarl sidesteps out of the way, trying to duck around behind the stone worker this time for a slash at his back.
You attack Warven with your Short Broadsword...
Warven dodges your attack.
[Warven(#26511)]
Lunging forward just in time to avoid the attack by Ranol Warven spins about and lunges forward, and uses his momentum from the spin to swing his War Hammer once more aiming lower this time, aiming at the Huskarl's hip
Warven attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he misses!
Ranol backsteps away from the swinging hammer, feeling the small breeze as it passes so close. Then he springs forward in the wake of the hammer's path with another low cut aimed for Warven's legs.
You attack Warven with your Short Broadsword...
Warven parries your attack with his shield!
[Warven(#26511)]
Seeing the attack aimed low, Warven goes to a knee and uses his shield to block the blow, feeling Ranol's sword strike his shield and begin to pull away the Stonewright swings his War Hammer upwards, in an uppercut motion aimed high on his opponent.
Warven attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he hits! Ouch!
Ranol wasn't expected such a fast upward swing with the hammer, but the stonewright has ever proved the strength and agility of his arm. The blunt weapon slams into his chest and the huskarl is pushed off balance for a moment, laughing in surprise. "Nice!"
[Warven(#26511)]
Quickly coming to his feet Warven steps back a few feet and says "this is a far better match Master Ranol" smacking his War Hammer against his Shield once and then letting the head of his War hammer rest upon the ground "We will have to do this again, you are a very skilled opponent."
[Frarin(#31050)] "Yes, you are," comes Frarin's bark suddenly from the side, at last drawing attention to him. He stands, arms still crossed. "But the both of you haven't yet mastered the weight of the hammer. Nor your own balance." There is criticism in his words, but his tone is actually quite harmless, as if he is nonetheless impressed with the two, even if he will not admit it. "All awkward jumping about and random jabs, that's a bunch of rot in a real battle."
"As are you, Master Warven." Ranol says, grinning and lowering the sword to his side. "Thank you for the match. Next time I will try the hammer against you again." He notices Frarin then and grins, "Good day, cousin!" He walks over to sit down on the bench, weary from the hard work out after a full day of such activity. "You should try your skill against each other.. Show us what you know." He says, chuckling.
[Warven(#26511)]
Looking to Frarin and hearing his words Warven bows his head and says "Master Frarin, it is good to see you." Hearing the words of Ranol he smiles and says "Perhaps you could teach me a thing or two, maybe even three. "
[Frarin(#31050)] "Good day, good day," Frarin says absently, still frowning at the two, especially when Ranol takes a seat, as if the unexpected challenge to try his own is hardly the criticism he was hoping to deal out. He uncrosses his arms. "You think so, hm?" He grunts and pulls his blue-tinged war hammer from the iron loop at his belt. "Neither of you are taking full advantage of the weight of the war hammer. It's its greatest strength. And," he holds up a finger, "it's greatest weakness."
He backs up a step or two, taking his weapon in two hands and spreading his feet, one foot slightly behind the other. "Go on then," he says gruffly, nodding sharply at Warven. "Set yourself up, lad."
[Warven(#26511)]
Hearing the words of Frarin Warven once more gets into a fighting stance and raises his War Hammer and Shield. Bowing his head Warven says "I am ready Master Frarin." Coming in quickly Warven side steps and swings his War Hammer right at his opponents right hand side.
Warven attacks Frarin with his War Hammer, but he misses by a mile.
[Frarin(#31050)] With a grunt Frarin skips back and to his left, bringing himself clear of Warven's swinging hammer by a few inches. He makes no critical comment right away however, instead shifting his grip on his hammer and carrying it around to come in at the stonewright's right side.
Frarin attacks Warven with his War Hammer, but he misses by a mile.
[Warven(#26511)]
Stepping back just in time to see Frarin's War Hammer just miss his right side, Warven waits until it passes then quickly lunges forward and thrust his own War Hammer infront of him aimed directly at Frarin's middle
Warven attacks Frarin with his War Hammer, but Frarin parries the attack with his War Hammer!
[Frarin(#31050)] A clang and the two war hammers meet with a reverberating jolt. Having swung past Warven, Frarin quickly stays the motion of his hammer enough to bring the bottom of the haft down to block the stonewright's attack. "The sides, aim for the sides!" he grunts, critical even in mock battle as he pushes Warven's hammer back. "Hammer's too heavy to reach the centre before your opponent reacts." All this is said in a rush of speech, for then the silversmith is bringing the head of the hammer down at Warven's left shoulder.
Frarin attacks Warven with his War Hammer and mildly wounds him!
[Warven(#26511)]
Feeling the sting of the War Hammer upon his shoulder Warven grunts, the blow from Frarin's War hammer carries much more force than Ranol's sword blows, Stepping back Warven side steps and swings his War Hammer once more, aimed at Frarin's side as he swings he says in hurried words "Duly Noted".
Warven attacks Frarin with his War Hammer, but he misses by an arm's length.
[Frarin(#31050)] "Downward blows, use gravity," Frarin grunts again as he skips quickly back a step to avoid Warven's swing and reins in his own weapon after its successful hit. Warven misses him by barely an inch. Frarin's hammer is then thrust forward as he himself rushes the stonewright to throw him off balance. Thus lunging forward, he swings in a low downward arch at Warven's left knee.
Frarin attacks Warven with his War Hammer, but Warven parries the attack with his War Hammer!
Eirdis trundles in, having heard the voice of her kin nearby. She is wearing simple travelling clothes her favourite colour, emerald green in a shirt and light cloak, and a leather-brown in her boots, belt and vest. The Khazad peeks into the training area and notices Frarin and Warven sparring. Not wanting to interrupt, she sidles into a position in Warven's line of sight, behind Frarin. "Come, now, Warven! I've seen you with that hammer, clobber him!" She grins and waves, ducking her head sheepishly, then taking a seat on a small empty firkin.
[Warven(#26511)]
Seeing Frarin's attack Warven thrust s the handle of his own War Hammer down just in time to black the blow, and taking a step forward getting close to his opponent, spotting Eirdis over Frarin's shoulder Warven grins and then shoves the head of his War hammer upwards aiming high.
Warven attacks Frarin with his War Hammer, but he misses by a handspan.
[Frarin(#31050)] "Good!" Frarin says with a grunt as Warven brings down the handle of his weapon to block the silversmith's attack. When Warven comes forward and crowds him, Frarin backpeddles and leans back a bit to avoid the thrust hammerhead. His balance thus thrown off, he presses his lips together as if unhappy with himself and ducks low. His hammer swings in a low arch at Warven's hip.
Frarin attacks Warven with his War Hammer, but Warven parries the attack with his shield!
[Warven(#26511)]
Watching Frarin's attack go low Warven crouches down a bit and blocks the attack with his shield, feeling the blow Warven swings his War Hammer upwards, once again in an uppercut motion just like with Ranol grunting as he dose so.
Warven attacks Frarin with his War Hammer, but Frarin parries the attack with his War Hammer!
Eirdis laughs softly and grits her teeth, cheering Warven on, "Sorry to play favourites, Frarin, but I'm hoping that by cheering Warven on now, he'll complain less of my cooking later on tonight." She gives Warven a grin and a subtle wink, settling back on her seat. "Crowd him! Don't let him take any openings! Keep your hammer and shield closer, Warven!"
[Frarin(#31050)] "C'mon lad!" Frarin grunts with impatience as he reels back his hammer and uses it to shove away Warven's own. "You keep swinging that bloody hammer upward and you'll wear yourself out and hit nothing all in one go!" He pushes Warven's weapon to the side and down, then quickly steps in closer to the stonewright and aims to slam the bottom of his hammer's haft at Warven's left shoulder.
Frarin attacks Warven with his War Hammer and mildly wounds him!
[Warven(#26511)]
Once again Warven feels the sting of Frarin's War Hammer upon his shoulder, grunting in pain he rolls to his left and says "It tends to work well with most" as he steps in once more and swings his War Hammer at Frarin's side in an upward angled attack.
Warven attacks Frarin with his War Hammer and mildly wounds him!
[Frarin(#31050)] And it hits, despite all the silversmith's reservations about upward attacks. It strikes Frarin just under his hip, jingling the chain mail under his tunic. He clenches his teeth and grunts. "And leaves you open if you aren't wary," he says in some sort of pride-covering rebuttal. The head of his hammer swings downwards at that, aimed at Warven's right knee.
Frarin attacks Warven with his War Hammer and mildly wounds him!
[Warven(#26511)]
Not expecting Frarin to stand his ground from the blow Warven feels the pain in his right knee as Frarin's attack makes contact buckling his knee. Grunting, the Stonewright pushes himself backwards with his left leg the uninjured one and once again is upon his feet. Getting back into a fighting stance he says "I -Feel- your point". Moving a bit slower and favoring his left leg a bit Warven presses the attack once more moving in and swinging his War Hammer in a downward motion aimed at Frarins's War Hammer wielding arm.
Warven attacks Frarin with his War Hammer, but he misses by an arm's length.
Eirdis winces inwardly as the two duke it out, noticing the limp in Warven's right leg. She frowns, watching how the stonewright moves, and clucks her tongue. "Frarin, if I may be so bold as to call a halt!" The Mazarbul healer frowns and grabs her satchel, heading into the arena with a determined and concerned expression on her face. "Warven, get your hide onto one of those stones." Somehow, the healer simply -knows- Warven's leg has been injured, and possibly more severely than he thinks.
********************
SOME POSES MISSING FROM DISCONNECT
********************
Eirdis mutters something unseemly under her breath. "I know when something's not right, Warven. When you sparred with Huskarl Ranol, did he manage a hit to your leg?" She stands with her hands on her hips, glaring at the stonewright. "I realize you've recieved worse injuries but I refuse to just stand here and watch while you get an already hurt leg battered to a pulp."
[Frarin(#31050)] "Yourself as well," Frarin says gruffly, despite all criticism to the contrary. He shifts now to rest the head of his weapon on the ground beside him. "I've more years behind me to have learned the hammer than I care to remember, but you will be just as good. You've a good balance," he continues in a scholarly manner. "But against a lighter weapon like Ranol's sword and those upward attacks will fail. When your hammer is raised, it should be ideal for crushing the low attacks from your opponent because gravity and weight are on your side, but not if the momentum of your hammer is headed the opposite direction."
Nevertheless, despite the mini-lecture, the curmugeony silversmith does not seem above praise. "Still, you've a talent for keeping your momentum up for the most part. You were raised on the hammer, I wonder? It shows." Eirdis, on the otherhand, receives only a dry, sarcastic roll of Frarin's eyes. "Oh stop babying him, cousin. He's hardly a beardling, bruises will heal. I wouldn't have kept up if I thought he was going to collapse."
Ranol stands finally and moves to join them, a wide grin on his face. "Let us see then, Frarin.. Sword against hammer, aye?" He asks. The huskarl isn't nearly so concerned about Warven's bruises. He trains with dwarves hours a day and doesn't worry unless someone is bleeding or their eyes are crossed from a blow.
[Warven(#26511)]
Hearing Eirdis word Warven smiles at her and says "Yes Master Ranol also scored a hit on this same leg, but I assure you my knee is perfectly fine, past perhaps the possible bruising." Looking to Frarin the Stonewright says "Aye, that I was. I use this same Hammer for much of my stone work when I am working in the mines, at least on the bigger sections and the pieces that don't do not need to be finely cut" Looking back to Eirdis he smiles once more and gives her a quick wink and says "I do not doubt your skills as a healer, but I promise you I am fine."
Seeing Ranol approach and hearing his words he says with a reluctant look upon his face "Perhaps I should listen to Eirdis, she is the healer, You wouldn't mind showing Master Ranol a thing or two would you Master Frarin."
Eirdis gives Frarin a glare and crosses her arms in front of her chest, glowering at Warven for a moment before she finally relents with a small smile to Warven. "Well... If you insist, I suppose I can't in all honesty drag you back to camp and heal you, can I?" She shrugs and murmurs softly, "Have you supped yet, Stonewright?"
[Warven(#26511)]
Looking back to Eirdis the Stonewright smiles and says "That I have not, and I do owe you a dinner now don't I" Looking to Ranol and Frarin he says "I thank the both of you for the sparring matches, you are both great fighters" Bowing his head and then looking back up "Perhaps I should rest my leg, I still have much work to do here before we leave."
[Frarin(#31050)] "Healer, healer, aye healer," Frarin grumbles, shaking his head and frowning to himself. He looks quite put out with the spar so stalled, but he almost smiles once Ranol joins them again and asks for a spar of his own. "I believe you've stabbed me in a spar before, cousin," he says, an odd smirk on his face. "Aye, aye, let's then. If you're so keen to learn the hammer, you would do well to know how to take advantage of it as much when you wield it as when you do not." He moves away from Warven and Eirdis, nodding only briefly when the stonewright gives his thanks for the two spars. But then Frarin is settling into his usual fighting stance.
Ranol grins widely as Frarin accepts the challenge. "It's not that I'm suddenly keen on the hammer, Frarin. It's that I recognize that -all- weapons have strengths and weaknesses. Even my pointy stick, as Lord Gimli so calls it." That said, he wastes no time in rushing in to make a fast swing at Frarin's side, trying to catch him unaware.
You drop your War Hammer.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
Your attack against Frarin mildly wounds him!
[Warven(#26511)]
As Frarin and Ranol begin their spar Warven looks to Eirdis and the two begin to make their way out of the Training grounds, Warven still limping a bit as he follows the Healer.
[Frarin(#31050)] A fast swing indeed and it catches Frarin just above the hip, bringing a grunt from the merchant. Reactively he steps away from the blow, then drops his hammer in a low arch aimed under Ranol's shield, at his knee.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he misses!
Ranol backsteps quickly away from the hammer, relying on his speed to get him out of harms way, but sacrificing some balance as Frarin criticized earlier. He swing's the sword down in response to the arcing hammer, aiming to hit Frarin's arm with the flat of the blade.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
Frarin parries your attack with his War Hammer!
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin pulls back his hands just enough so that Ranol's sword lands with a clang on the haft of his hammer instead of the silversmith's arm. Perhaps seeking to take advantage of Ranol's off-balance, Frarin then steps forward to crowd the huskarl, thrusting his left shoulder towards Ranol's chest while he swings down again at his left leg.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he hits! Ouch!
Given how Warven always keeps a distance to build up powerful swings, Ranol doesn't anticipate Frarin moving in close so quickly. He brings his shield up in anticipation of the silversmith ramming him with his shoulder, and ends up wide open as the hammer slams into his leg. A loud crack splits the air right as Frarin's hammer strikes true, and the huskarl staggers back with shock on his face. Only, he seems to be moving just fine and it's some men in the background breaking down wooden rods for practice that made that horrible noise.
Ranol narrows his gaze in concentration and makes a quick jab with the blade to the left in a feint, then switches up by swinging the sword around in an arcing slash at Frarin's right side.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
Frarin parries your attack with his War Hammer!
Ranol narrows his gaze in concentration and makes a quick jab with the blade to the left in a feint, then switches up by swinging the sword around in an arcing slash at Frarin's right side.'.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin skips back after his attack strikes true and Ranol staggers back in shock. It gives the silversmith a moment to himself recover and distance himself from where the huskarl's quicker sword might more effective. Ranol moves in again though and feigns to the left and Frarin is already moving his hammer up to bring it to protect his left side. Under the hammer whips the short broadsword and Frarin only just manages to redirect his hammer downward so that the haft knocks Ranol's blade away.
Thus awkwardly positioned, Frarin steps to his right and slightly away to build up his momentum again. It's a hasty move, with the hammer head arching swiftly up and around to catch Ranol's left shoulder.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and you block his attack with your shield!
A red bearded dwarf appears at the edge of the yard carrying a warhammer and a helmet. Hildis recognizes the two sparring and nods to himself at they position themselves, an almost self satisfied smile when he looks over Ranol's stance. He stops and balances on the hammer and nearly falls off into a nose dive when the crack resounds across the yard. Shock leaves him open mouthed and a strangled yell leaves his throat. Strangled and cut off in embarrassment as it becomes quickly obvious that Ranol has not had a leg broken. He clears his throat nd edges closer with an unconcealed sigh and a shake of his head.
Seated at one of the benches is Thari, leaning back with arms folded over chest. She is grinning into her beard while watching the sparring pair. Well, really, grinning at Frarin.
Ranol is again watching Frarin for that move to build up speed with the weight of the hammer, and throws up his shield to knock the hammer away. As he's pushing against the heavy weapon he stays in close to his opponent. The huskarl makes a weak slap at the silversmith again with the flat of his blade. One difference between their weapons is that even weak hits can do damage when a sword has a sharp edge.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
Frarin parries your attack with his War Hammer!
The blood-red sun sinks below the dark, cinder-ridden, and cloud-filled horizon, leaving the night pitch black.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin lets his hammer slide down Ranol's shield when it strikes the barrier and thus he knocks away the huskarl's weak attack with relative ease. But the closeness of the two is doing nothing for Frarin's momentum and so the silversmith backs up again, but he simultaneous goes against his own advice to Warven and swings upward. Both hands on the end of the haft, he swings the hammerhead to come up just under Ranol's shield, hopefully to force it away and strike the huskarl's protected hip.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and you parry his attack with your Short Broadsword!
Thari stands and paces around the outside of the circle, still grinning like a fool with her hands tucked into her leather belt. The little dwarf gives a bit of a discreet hop as Frarin parries the strike, then calls out a less-discreet, "Frarin ai-menu, Ranol! Beware!" And then a laugh.
Perhaps if Warven hadn't used the same technique earlier Ranol might have been tricked by it. But after the clever attack to his leg the huskarl is watching for Frarin to come in with a low attack. He jabs the sword down to intercept and as soon as he's stalled the motion of the hammer he reverses the direction of the blade and whips it back up at Frarin's midsection. (Because crotch would just be cheap in a spar and they're faaamily now)
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
Frarin parries your attack with his War Hammer!
Hildis moves out of the arena area to join Thari on the benches. She places the warhammer against one then stands to watch. She narrows her eyes at Thari's call but gives her a grin and a shrug after the flurry of parried blows. "Good one Ranol!" she calls.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin makes no reaction at Thari's cry, though surely he must have heard it and now be aware of her presence. Instead, however, his mind is on the darting sword, light enough to be quick to handle and short enough to be superior in close quarters. But Frarin brings his arms up and thereby the whole of his weapon, instead of a swinging motion. Ranol's sword lands at the centre of the haft with a clang and Frarin forces it back. Moving quickly, he shifts his hammer around so that now the the weight of the head is in his left hand rather than his right. It swings in a short arch towards Ranol's right elbow.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he misses!
Someone calls Thari's name off in the direction of the hill and she turns, just missing seeing how her husband's latest swing doesn't connect. She moves away where she is called and is soon lost from sight.
Ranol quickly dodges away as the hard hammer head swings in at his sword.. arm. The huskarl presses the offensive, moving in close again to cripple Frarin's ability to build up power, trying to keep the spar on his terms. He swing the blade at Frarin again.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
[Combat(#13388)->Ranol]
Frarin parries your attack with his War Hammer!
[Frarin(#31050)] The war hammer may be best suited to building momentum, but it is not restricted to it. Frarin swings the head of his hammer down to knock away Ranol's sword, but uses the then elevated bottom end of the haft to press his attack. Face grim with concentration, he returns Ranol's crowding tactic and aims the end of his war hammer at the huskarl's chin.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he hits! Ouch!
The warhammer smacks into his chin and Ranol grunts in pain. He still stays close to Frarin, blindly slapping down at the back of Frarin's knee, trying to trip the dwarf off balance.
You blindly attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
[Combat(#13388)->Ranol]
Frarin dodges your attack.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin steps forward when Ranol fails to back away and instead swings at the back of his leg. The short broadsword meets air as Frarin steps past Ranol and twists quickly to avoid leaving his back to the huskarl. He releases his left hand from his hammer as he turns, swinging it as he comes around towards the centre of Ranol's upper back.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he hits! Ouch!
Ranol takes a solid blow to the back, the metal slapping against chain and he moves away from Frarin to get a more solid, defensive stance. Again he tries for a feign, watching the hammer and jabbing with the blade down low in attempt to coax Frarin to swing towards it, but pulls the attack and switches up to a slash at the silversmith's torso at the last moment.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
[Combat(#13388)->Ranol]
Frarin dodges your attack.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin pulls his hammer back once it connects and swiftly catches it in both hands again. He begins to bring the bottom of the haft down to block Ranol's feign, but lifts both hands and skips back a step when the huskarl slashes at his middle instead. The point of the sword catches a wrinkle of his jerkin, but padded it leaves no tear. Hands thus above his head, Frarin brings the head of his hammer down with a grunt, aimed at Ranol's right shoulder.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he misses!
Ranol skips to the side quickly, his boots crunching on the dirt beneath them as he dodges out of the way of the sweeping hammer. As Frarin follow's through with the downstroke, Ranol hacks at his cousin's husband again, swinging the broadsword hard at his side.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
[Combat(#13388)->Ranol]
Your attack against Frarin mildly wounds him!
[Frarin(#31050)] The padded blade solidly connects with Frarin's upper arm, enough to be quite a painful slash had the edge not been blunted. As it is, it will likely leave a good bruise. The silversmith gives a muffled grunt as his hammer falls harmlessly towards the earth, but instead of attempting to back away again and possibly leaving his back to the huskarl, Frarin brings the head of his hammer back up. He does not swing it though, instead using it in a punching motion towards Ranol's abdomen.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he hits! Ouch!
ARB: You've been injured for 1 hp's by Frarin's attack...
...you have 92 left. Please RP this injury accordingly.
[Hildis(#23062)]
Hildis stands on the edge of the practice circle mesmerized by the two dwarves. She winces involuntarily as the warhammer clangs on Ranol's armor and shifts with each of his movements as though she were swinging the sword.
Ranol will have more than a few bruises come morning, but he's rather competative at times and isn't ready to give up the spar. After he scores the hit he pulls the blade back to prepare for another swing, but the head of the hammer is jammed into his abdomen and he staggers back with a gasp as air is pushed from his lungs. He takes a moment to recover, slowly pacing around Frarin, brows drawn in concentration as sweat trickles down his face, breathing hard. He steps in with a sidesweep of the flat of the blade.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
Frarin dodges your attack.
[Frarin(#31050)] Beads of sweat gather on Frarin's brow too and his breathing is grown laboured. He is favouring his old limp too, keeping more of his weight on his right leg. But Ranol's moment to recover allows the silversmith to straight and back away from him, taking no advantage of the pause. Frarin switches his grip on his hammer again, so that the weight rests in his right hand. And when Ranol presses the offensive again, he is ready for him. Skipping back slightly awkwardly with his pained leg, Frarin avoids the huskarl's swing and quickly brings the head of his hammer down, aiming to catch it across the knuckles of Ranol's sword hand.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and you parry his attack with your Short Broadsword!
Ranol catches the hammer against the crossguard of the sword and harmlessly guides it away, then takes a step back and swings the blade around again for a smack down at Frarin's shoulder. He's noticed the limp, but isn't going to use his friend's old injury to his advantage. He has more respect for Frarin than that.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
Your attack against Frarin mildly wounds him!
The red bearded dwarf is probably unaware of the gasp that mirrors Ranol she clenches her hands into fists as though she is pained by the hammer then covers her midriff as if to ward off more blows."
[Frarin(#31050)] Another grunt from Frarin as the short broadsword catches him across the shoulder. He gives a huff of breath, but does not pause as he twists back around to bring himself out of the awkward position, aiming the bottom of the hammer's haft for a glancing strike at Ranol's elbow.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he misses!
Frarin says, "You posing in, Gim? Or busy?"
Ranol jerks his arm back out of the way as he sees the haft jabbing towards his elbow and steps away, circling the older dwarf again. He tries to dart around behind Frarin, swinging the flat of the blade at his upper torso again.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
[Combat(#13388)->Ranol]
Your attack against Frarin mildly wounds him!
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin overestimates the aim of Ranol's sword as it licks in again for his torso. The silversmith brings the head of his hammer up to block the blow, but too far, and he does not attempt to back up at the same time. The blade catches him just up and inside of his hip. This brings a more forceful grunt from him, but perhaps Frarin is as competitive as Ranol, for he does not back away. Instead he again releases his left hand from the upper end of his hammer's haft and swings the head with his right hand alone to again follow Ranol and land a blow on the huskarl's back.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and you parry his attack with your Short Broadsword!
[Hildis(#23062)]
Hildis sways with their movements, unable to hold in her gasps. Her green eyes follow Ranol anxiously as Frarin moves into him again.
Ranol is is twisting back to face Frarin again, and sees the wide, powerful swing of the hammer cutting the air towards him. He barely pulls his sword up again to block in time, the metal ringing through the padding and vibrating through to his hand from the force of the blow. He only tightens his grip on the the haft and pushes the hammer away, feet planted. Again, after deflecting Frarin's attack wide, he tries to get in a quick counter-strike in by reversing the strike and slapping the sword up at the silversmith again.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
[Combat(#13388)->Ranol]
Frarin parries your attack with his War Hammer!
Braldor has disconnected.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin forces his hammer down, using gravity to his advantage, and it clatters against Ranol's sword and knocks it away. He quickly brings the heavy weapon up into both hands again and holds it diagonally across his chest, but he backs away, holding up a few fingers to indicate an end to the spar. "Stay, stay," he says gruffly, a bead of sweat rolling from his brow down the side of his nose. "That was well fought indeed, cousin, but we could both use a rest, I think."
Ranol backs off when Frarin signals to stop, nodding in acknowledgement. He's breathing hard, and tucks the sword under his arm so that he can pull his hemlet from his head. His short black hair is matted wetly against his brow. "Good fight, cousin.. " He agrees, grinning as he catches his breath. "Very good. I need a drink." He glances around, then notices the other dwarf that's watching. "Hello, Hildis." He manages an awkward bow towards her.
[Frarin(#31050)] Likewise breathing hard and the hair about his brow sticking to his face, Frarin nods sharply and lowers the head of his hammer to the ground. "Aye, well fought. You may need learning to wield a war hammer, but you are masterful with that sword when opposed to it." Wiping his brow with the back of his hand, he turns when Ranol greets Hildis and offers a bow to the merchant as well. "Good afternoon, Hildis," he says, giving smile as his breathing begins to calm.
[Hildis(#23062)]
The Barazin bows to them both managing a solemn nod to her clansman Frarin and a smile for Ranol. "Good afternoon to you both. That was quite a spar! Hammer and sword seem so mismatched but when you both are wielding them they look very dangerous. What would you like to drink?"
Ranol smiles at the praise from Frarin. "Thank you.. perhaps someday I can be as skilled as you in the hammer, cousin. I will be feeling a great many bruises come morning." He shifts his attention back towards Hildis. "You can't plan on knowing what weapon an opponent might wield against you. Almost anything can be dangerous when used against someone.." He speaks in a casual tone, running his hand through his hair a few times, "Perhaps we could all get a drink at the tavern?"
A thin bit of light filters down through the mass of smoke and haze issuing from Mt. Doom. The sun has risen, but the day remains dark.
[Frarin(#31050)] "Aye, they would seem," Frarin nods. He gestures towards Hildis' own war hammer. "But if you wield it properly, a hammer can be superior to a short broadsword, and vis versa. It is a short broadsword against another that would be a fast-paced battle indeed." He nods at Ranol. "Aye, well said. And aye, the tavern sounds a welcome relief."
From Husker's Rise comes Braldor, the Thane sporting a mail of dwarven mail openly, instead of his favored blue cloak. He comes with quick step, and approaches the gathered dwarves, curious to see what is going on.
[Hildis(#23062)] Braldor coming on the scene makes Hildis hesitate. She looks at the two thirsty fighters in turn and the fresh Thane. "I would like to practise, I don't want to be a liability if there is a fight."
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin wipes his sleeve across his brow and hefts up his hammer to loop it back into his belt. But as he looks up again he catches sight of Braldor entering the practicing grounds. A frown near instantly descends and the silversmith's grim visage returns as he looks to Ranol. "Right, tavern then?" he says without greeting the Thane Bundazanul.
Ranol doesn't notice the approach of Braldor, his back to that direction. At Hildis's request he lets out an exhausted breath. "Perhaps later? After I've had a chance to rest?" He's already unwrapping the padding from the sword to slide it into it's sheath. He notices the look that Frarin levels on something past him, and turns to see. "Lord Braldor! Good day!" He bows to the thane.
[Braldor(#30149)] "And a good day to ye, Huskarl", comes Braldor's reply, as he smiles to Ranol. "I see ye're still practicing... good! I feel in need of some practice meself also... care to stay for a bit longer, master Frarin", he adds, with a sly look at the Barazin silversmith. "I've heard ye're mighty with that hammer of yers". To Hildis a nod and a smile are given in greeting.
[Frarin(#31050)] The frown deepens on Frarin's face and his eyes narrow at the Thane. He glances at Hildis, then back to Braldor. "I've already been sparring for a time, my lord," he says after a moment. Indeed, though his breathing is returned to normal, sweat still glistens on his brow and under his eyes, and he favours his right leg. But the barest hint of a smug smile pulls at one corner of his mouth, almost nonexistant. "But if you are happy with a weary opponent, then I will remain."
Ranol looks between the thane and the silversmith, but doesn't pay them much mind as they fall into their usual goading routine. He slides his broadsword into it's sheath, then begins winding the cloth around the scabbard where he always keeps it tied.
[Braldor(#30149)] "Oh, in that case, please, go and rest", Braldor says to Frarin. "I wouldn't want to deliver to Thari a tired and beat up husband... I wouldn't hear the end of it for years!", he adds.
[Hildis(#23062)]
"Thane Braldor if neither of these two are up for continuing would you consider training with a debutante like myself?" The Barazin stands straight and proud but she flushes a bright red when she addresses him undermining her pretended confidence.
[Frarin(#31050)] "A few rounds, my lord," Frarin says in a tight tone, lips pressing together. He glances at Hildis, but is already pulling forth his hammer again. "Just a few rounds, cousin, then he is yours." He rubs a sleeve across both eyes to clear the remaining sweat, but then takes his hammer in both hands and settles into a balanced stance. He nods to Braldor, frown remaining. "After you, my lord."
[Braldor(#30149)] "Certainly, Hildis", Braldor replie,s nodding to her. But then Frarin speaks, and a tight smile forms in the Thane's lips. "After I finish off with master frarin, we can surely have a few rounds of practice, indeed!". His hand is going to his axe, and soon the massive blade is at the ready. "Oh no, cousin... after you", the thane says to frarin, as he watches him intently.
Ranol watches the exchanges quietly, saying nothing as Braldor and Frarin exchange barbs. Hildis is given a surprised glance when she requests time with the thane, but the huskarl only moves to sit on one of the benches, still looking exhausted from his long day of training.
[Hildis(#23062)]
Ranol's surprise does not go unremarked. Hildis purses her lips, raises an eyebrow and shrugs as if to say, 'If not you someone has to train me.' She goes to the benches not far from Ranol and settles herself to watch the sparring.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin's expression is a mixture of sarcasm and dislike when Braldor speaks to Hildis, especially at the mention of 'finish off'. But he waits until the thane is at the ready, then gives a sharp nod in acknowledge. Still favouring his left leg, he approaches Braldor at first slowly, treading a half-circle before abruptly rushing forward. His hammer swings out, curving a low upward loop for the thane's left knee.
Frarin attacks Braldor with his War Hammer, but he misses by a long shot.
[Braldor(#30149)] And Braldor is not there, and Frarin's hammer swooshes without striking! Indeed, the Thane moves to his right, avoiding the Barazin's hammer by a couple of inches. His axe is now at work, and even if padded heavily so as to avoid making massive damage, its weight and the strnght with which it's wielded may amount to a bruise or two, if it strikes. And in it comes, angling from top right to lower left, aimed at the Silversmith's midst.
Braldor attacks Frarin with his Battle Axe and mildly wounds him!
[Frarin(#31050)] The impact of Braldor's axe catches Frarin square in the chest, driving him back a staggered step and forcing the air from his lungs. Padding or not, the heavy weapon seems to have hurt the silversmith quite a bit, for he does not straighten fully, instead aiming a weaker swing of his hammer at Braldor's left hip.
Frarin is Barazin. Hildis looks startled when she claps her hands at his miss on Braldor. She glances sideways at Ranol, her chin high and clears her throat. "How long did you train today Ranol? You are so good with the sword, nearly unbeatable and when you train with the hammer more you will be a frightening dwarf to have as an adversary on the field."
Frarin attacks Braldor with his War Hammer, but he misses by a mile.
[Braldor(#30149)] And Frarin's stroke again does not find its mark, as Braldor moves with speed and agility out of harm's way, twisting to a side. using the momentum of his action, the Thane brings his axe to bear on the silversmith once more, aiming at Frarin's chest.
Braldor attacks Frarin with his Battle Axe and mildly wounds him!
Ranol is watching the spar, his brows drawn together tightly as the two battle. Hildis is given a glance to acknowledge that he heard her, but his eyes go back to the combatants immediately. "I have been here since sunrise this morning.. " He smiles faintly at her compliment, "Thank you. But I wouldn't go so far as to say unbeatable. I have been bested too many times."
[Frarin(#31050)] The strike is almost the same as the last, with Frarin unable to bring his weapon to bear before the thane's axe lands solidly on his chest. Again it forces the air from his lungs, accompanied this time by a harsh cough and grunt. But the silversmith does not back away this time, standing his ground and rushing Braldor as soon as the axe is clear of his chest. He aims his shoulder at the thane's chest while swinging his hammer in a low arch at his lower left leg.
Frarin attacks Braldor with his War Hammer and mildly wounds him!
[Braldor(#30149)] And this time Frarin's hammer finds its mark, as Braldor is this time too slow to react. Even if the hammer does not impact him on his lower stomach fully, it does strike to a side, and a slight grimace on the Thane's face... cearly, that one hurt. Still, this is a dwarf of Erebor, and hurting or not, he fights on, his axe raised again and coming down on Frarin.
Braldor attacks Frarin with his Battle Axe and mildly wounds him!
[Hildis(#23062)] Hildis follows the combat closely, she restrains a clap for Frarin when he strikes Braldor. Glancing at Ranol she murmurs, "They are good, so good. I want to be able to hold my own if there is a fight." More quietly she asks leaning toward Ranol, "Is it true that they don't get on? I mean," her eyes swivel back to the fighters, "they certainly seemed cool when they decided to spar."
[Frarin(#31050)] This time the axe lands on the soft flesh between shoulder and neck and, though the chain mail beneath lessen the impact, it causes Frarin to jerk his head slightly as if the thane has struck a nerve. But the silversmith seeks to take advantage of the high position of Braldor's axe and, though bowed, he swings out at Braldor's middle, grunting with the effort.
Frarin attacks Braldor with his War Hammer, but he misses by a handspan.
[Braldor(#30149)] And Braldor hops back, and Frarin's thrust doesn't reach its intended target. But the thane does not press on the attack, but lowers his weapon. "Yer tired, alright, and it seems ye need to get that leg looked after", he says, signalling woth his axe frarin's left leg. "I think I have sparred enough with ye, Silversmith", he adds, as he turns. "Perhaps, Hildis, this would be a good time to spar, ye and me?"
Ranol smirks at Hildis's question. "Oh, quite true. I think Frarin was rather foolish to rise to this challenge." The huskarl responds softly, his tone hinting at irritation. "They have been at each other for years." When the spar seems to be completed, Ranol stands. "Good match!" He calls, grinning now. "Perhaps we can get that drink now? I'm thirsty, cousin."
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin backs away from Braldor once the thane leaves off the spar and the look of his face is one of weariness and frustration, perhaps irritated at Braldor calling the spar. Or more likely, irritated at Braldor in general. That sounds about right. "I am fine, my lord," he grumbles gruffly, making an effort to stand straight despite the clear bow in his posture, evidence of the two blow to his chest. "Thank you for the spar, lord," he adds at the last, inclining his head a bit before turning.
He leaves the training circle with a clear limp, a stiff neck and a hunched back, but most especially none of his previous elation at the sparring. When Ranol jumps up to renew the offer of the tavern, Frarin turns a stony face on him and shrugs with his unharmed shoulder. "Don't patronise me," he mutters without looking at Ranol. Overall, he looks as irritated with himself as the huskarl is. "Best check your thane doesn't need you before you leave." Certainly it seems an invitation to indeed continue onto the tavern, but Frarin doesn't wait for Ranol, instead limping heavily from the grounds as soon as he is done speaking.
The smile fades quickly when Frarin barks at him in anger, and now the huskarl is left with a choice. He's weary of sparring and has already put in an overly full day. One hand rubs through his hair while he looks between the departing Barazin and Braldor. "Aye.. I'll catch up.." Ranol says. Frarin can stomp some of that anger off first.
[Hildis(#23062)]
Frarin's irritation, Ranol's distance all contribute to the deep frown on the Barazin maiden's face. She watches Frarin stomp off. She needs a moment to compose herself and trains her eyes to the ground until she can lift them with at least a semblance of tranquility. Clearing her throat she stands and goes to pick up her war hammer.
"Thane Braldor would you be willing to go a few rounds with me. I am still very much a novice," she says while fitting herself with her helmet.
[Braldor(#30149)] "Surely, Hildis", Braldor replies, nodding to her, as he takes a few steps back, and readies his battle axe. "Ready when ye are".
[Hildis(#23062)]
Hildis gives Ranol a look from under eyelashes an unspoken question in her eyes. He is confusing her with his distance and when she looks at him again there is decision on her face, a new determination straightening her shoulders.
Slipping a finger under her helmet strap she walks into the arena and lifts her hammer two-handed, spreads her feet into a classic stance and nods at the Thane.
Ranol lingers, slowly collecting his gear while he watches his thane and the barazin, a faint frown on his face. The glance from Hildis isn't missed and his gaze wanders away quickly, but soon he's watching again.
[Braldor(#30149)] Braldor starts to circle around Hildis, noting the barazin's stance, the way she grips her hammer... and then, with a suddenness that might surprise some, he comes forth, his axe coming on a sideways chop aimed at Hildis's thigh.
Braldor attacks Hildis with his Battle Axe and mildly wounds it!
[Hildis(#23062)]
The Barazin's eyes widen as she sees the hammer coming and freezes to the spot. Her eyes are round saucers and then she wakes up, enough to begin to step back from the hammer and avoid having her femur broken but not by much. The hammer lands hard. "Oouf," she gasps as though it knocked the wind from her and she staggers under the blow. Still, she lifts her hammer and instead of moving completely out of range moves into Braldor swinging at hip level.
Hildis attacks Braldor with its War Hammer, but it misses by a long shot.
[Hildis(#23062)]
The Barazin's eyes widen as she sees the axe coming and freezes to the spot. Her eyes are round saucers and then she wakes up, enough to begin to step back from the axe and avoid having her femur broken but not by much. The hammer lands hard. "Oouf," she gasps as though it knocked the wind from her and she staggers under the blow. Still, she lifts her hammer and instead of moving completely out of range moves into Braldor swinging at hip level.
[Braldor(#30149)] And the Thane twists, his legs carrying him away from harm speedily. And then Braldor, flexing his muscled arms, brings his axe to bear on Hildis in a roundhouse chop. Luckily, Braldor's axe is heavily padded, for such a powerful attack may cause severe damage if it hits.
Braldor attacks Hildis with his Battle Axe and mildly wounds it!
[Hildis(#23062)] Hildis literally chews her moustache to keep from crying aloud when the axe hits her shoulder. She staggers to the right trying to lift her hammer. Against all reasonable rules for combat she turns her head to glance at Ranol's reaction. Gritting her teeth she lifts her hammer and moves out of range, she moves to the left and then to the right and swings with all her weight behind it overhanded towards Braldor's shoulder.
Hildis attacks Braldor with its War Hammer, but it misses by an arm's length.
Ranol winces as Hildis freezes and takes the hard hit. He says nothing though, and stays out of the way, watching. When she looks his way he quickly shakes his head, "Focus on the fight!" He says sharply, pointing towards the thane.
[Braldor(#30149)] A twist and a hop save Braldor from falling under such a mighty blow, and soon he is position tostrike... yet he does not. Breathing heavily, Braldor lowers his axe, and nods to Hildis. "Aye, as Ranol says, when ye're in a fight, be it a spar or not, yer head must BE in the fight... and not somewhere else", hea dminishes. "A distraction in a fight might prove fatal, even if it's a glance to the side", he adds. "Yet, I deem that with more work, ye'll improve in the use of yer hammer".
[Hildis(#23062)]
Hildis on the other hand is breathing heavily and making an effort to not show how much pain she is in. A bead of perspiration makes her squint as she bows her head acknowledging his admonishment. She shoots a quick glance at Ranol, too, nodding to him to show she heard his words. "Thank you thane Braldor. I must keep my mind on the business at hand and thank you for saying I will improve. She lowers her hammer and bows more formally.
[Braldor(#30149)] "Well, ye're a dwarf of Erebor, and the proud blood of Durin's Folk runs on yer veins! of course ye'll get better at handling that hammer", Braldor replies, smiling now to Hildis. "Now... go and see to Ranol. I'm sure he needs yer help, after sparring with that B...., errr, with Frarin", he adds, correcting himself quickly. "I shall go back to our Guild Hall. I bid ye a good day, Hildis".
"Me? Oh.. I was just collecting my things and was going to join Frarin for that drink." Ranol says when Braldor addresses him. He bows to the thane, "I'll check in with you later, my lord." And the huskarl is beating a swift retreat, for whatever reason.
[Warven(#26511)]
Walking into the training grounds is the Stonewright Warven, as he walks the sound of ringmail "clinky" can be heard, he has his War hammer resting upon his shoulder and a pipe between his teeth and seeing Ranol he shouts "Master Ranol? How fares the training?" Pausing to remove the pipe from his mouth "Care for a rematch? Perhaps even start with your sword this time."
Ranol glances over when Warven addresses him and he grins. "Aye.. We can do that." He walks away from the other two Bundazanul dwarves and stops in a clear area. "Perhaps I will be more ready for your skill today." He says, chuckling.
[Warven(#26511)]
With a laugh Warven begins to pad the end of his War Hammer and says "That is what I worry about, let us hope I am a match for you on this day." Finishing of tying the pad upon the War Hammer Warven walks over to where Ranol is, standing about ten paces away and gets into a fighting stance and says "Ready when you are Master Ranol"
Ranol waits patiently until Warven says he is ready, then the huskarl moves in immediately, not wasting time. The two clan-karls walk off, less interested in watching a spar after a full morning of training themselves. Ranol leads with a fast slash with the flat of the blade at Warven's side.
You attack Warven with your Short Broadsword...
Warven dodges your attack.
[Warven(#26511)]
Jumping back just in time to see Ranol's blade just miss him and saying "Close..." Taking a step forward and swinging his War Hammer overhead at Ranol's right shoulder while he dose so.
Warven attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he hits! Ouch!
[Frarin(#31050)] The two clan-karls may drift away, but there is another dwarf who comes to the training area just as they are leaving it. Frarin is clad in a knee-length blue surcoat and his war hammer rests at his side. The smell of pipesmoke lingers on his person as if he is at his leisure for the time. For awhile he pauses at the edge of the training area, arms crossed over his chest, quite obvious in his watching of Ranol and Warven as they launch into a spar. Another spar, rather.
The silversmith says nothing for the time, though. Instead he moves further into the area, taking a seat on one of the benches and sitting with arms crossed as he watches the two.
Maybe it's that quick rush to try and get the jump on the Barazin that leaves the huskarl open to the counter-attack. Maybe Ranol is just packing away too many pastries these days. The Bundazanul takes the powerful hit to his shoulder, too slow at pulling up the shield in time to block. Not to be discouraged, Ranol brings his arm around overhead with a downstroke at Warven's arm.
You attack Warven with your Short Broadsword...
Your attack against Warven mildly wounds him!
[Warven(#26511)]
Attempting to bring up his shield to block the attack Warven feels the sting of Ranols blade upon his arm "Gah.." Jumping back he then side steps and lunges forward once more War hammer forward thrusting it at the Huskarl's middle.
Warven attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and you parry his attack with your Short Broadsword!
Ranol dodges aside quickly, his blue eyes focused as he concentrates entirely on the spar, determined to make a better showing today. He hasn't noticed Frarin's arrival, which is probably for the best because then he would feel more pressure. The huskarl moves in with a low swing at Warven's leg.
You attack Warven with your Short Broadsword...
Your attack against Warven mildly wounds him!
[Warven(#26511)]
Once again the Stonewright feels the sting of Ranol's blade, this time upon his leg, Stepping back Warven shakes his head and jumps forward once more, swinging his War Hammer sideways aimed at Ranol's right side, shouting as he dose so.
Warven attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he hits! Ouch!
ARB: You've been injured for 1 hp's by Warven's attack...
...you have 92 left. Please RP this injury accordingly.
Ranol doesn't recover fast enough and the hammer smacks into his side, the chain links ringing from the blow. He grins, enjoying this spar more than the last, obviously. The huskarl makes another overhead chop at the stonewright.
You attack Warven with your Short Broadsword...
Warven dodges your attack.
[Warven(#26511)]
Dodging to the side Warven sees the blade just miss his arm and then quickly steps forward and swings his War Hammer once more, downward in motion aimed at the Huskarl's sword arm and keeping his shield up as he dose so.
Warven attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he misses!
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin frowns, expression hard as he continues starring at the spar. He crosses his feet under the bench to match his crossed arms, looking very judgmental as he sits and watches. His eyes are narrowed, expression critical, though occasionally some move or another brings the slightest quirk of a smile to one corner of his mouth. But he does not interrupt.
Ranol has a better rhythym today, warmed up from practicing all morning. He sees the warhammer coming down towards his arm and instead of stepping back, he moves in closer, making a quick jab with the broadsword in under Warven's attack.
You attack Warven with your Short Broadsword...
Your attack against Warven mildly wounds him!
[Warven(#26511)]
Once again Warven feels the Sting of Ranol's blade, for though his shield was up, he had it raised too much leaving his middle exposed. Immediately after feeling the sting of the blade upon him the Stonewright twists and swings his War Hammer in a back handed motion aimed high at Ranol's shoulder.
Warven attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he misses!
Ranol is remembering the advice given to him by Frarin and Gimli, and watches how Warven draws the hammer back again to build momentum for his next attack. The huskarl sidesteps out of the way, trying to duck around behind the stone worker this time for a slash at his back.
You attack Warven with your Short Broadsword...
Warven dodges your attack.
[Warven(#26511)]
Lunging forward just in time to avoid the attack by Ranol Warven spins about and lunges forward, and uses his momentum from the spin to swing his War Hammer once more aiming lower this time, aiming at the Huskarl's hip
Warven attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he misses!
Ranol backsteps away from the swinging hammer, feeling the small breeze as it passes so close. Then he springs forward in the wake of the hammer's path with another low cut aimed for Warven's legs.
You attack Warven with your Short Broadsword...
Warven parries your attack with his shield!
[Warven(#26511)]
Seeing the attack aimed low, Warven goes to a knee and uses his shield to block the blow, feeling Ranol's sword strike his shield and begin to pull away the Stonewright swings his War Hammer upwards, in an uppercut motion aimed high on his opponent.
Warven attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he hits! Ouch!
Ranol wasn't expected such a fast upward swing with the hammer, but the stonewright has ever proved the strength and agility of his arm. The blunt weapon slams into his chest and the huskarl is pushed off balance for a moment, laughing in surprise. "Nice!"
[Warven(#26511)]
Quickly coming to his feet Warven steps back a few feet and says "this is a far better match Master Ranol" smacking his War Hammer against his Shield once and then letting the head of his War hammer rest upon the ground "We will have to do this again, you are a very skilled opponent."
[Frarin(#31050)] "Yes, you are," comes Frarin's bark suddenly from the side, at last drawing attention to him. He stands, arms still crossed. "But the both of you haven't yet mastered the weight of the hammer. Nor your own balance." There is criticism in his words, but his tone is actually quite harmless, as if he is nonetheless impressed with the two, even if he will not admit it. "All awkward jumping about and random jabs, that's a bunch of rot in a real battle."
"As are you, Master Warven." Ranol says, grinning and lowering the sword to his side. "Thank you for the match. Next time I will try the hammer against you again." He notices Frarin then and grins, "Good day, cousin!" He walks over to sit down on the bench, weary from the hard work out after a full day of such activity. "You should try your skill against each other.. Show us what you know." He says, chuckling.
[Warven(#26511)]
Looking to Frarin and hearing his words Warven bows his head and says "Master Frarin, it is good to see you." Hearing the words of Ranol he smiles and says "Perhaps you could teach me a thing or two, maybe even three. "
[Frarin(#31050)] "Good day, good day," Frarin says absently, still frowning at the two, especially when Ranol takes a seat, as if the unexpected challenge to try his own is hardly the criticism he was hoping to deal out. He uncrosses his arms. "You think so, hm?" He grunts and pulls his blue-tinged war hammer from the iron loop at his belt. "Neither of you are taking full advantage of the weight of the war hammer. It's its greatest strength. And," he holds up a finger, "it's greatest weakness."
He backs up a step or two, taking his weapon in two hands and spreading his feet, one foot slightly behind the other. "Go on then," he says gruffly, nodding sharply at Warven. "Set yourself up, lad."
[Warven(#26511)]
Hearing the words of Frarin Warven once more gets into a fighting stance and raises his War Hammer and Shield. Bowing his head Warven says "I am ready Master Frarin." Coming in quickly Warven side steps and swings his War Hammer right at his opponents right hand side.
Warven attacks Frarin with his War Hammer, but he misses by a mile.
[Frarin(#31050)] With a grunt Frarin skips back and to his left, bringing himself clear of Warven's swinging hammer by a few inches. He makes no critical comment right away however, instead shifting his grip on his hammer and carrying it around to come in at the stonewright's right side.
Frarin attacks Warven with his War Hammer, but he misses by a mile.
[Warven(#26511)]
Stepping back just in time to see Frarin's War Hammer just miss his right side, Warven waits until it passes then quickly lunges forward and thrust his own War Hammer infront of him aimed directly at Frarin's middle
Warven attacks Frarin with his War Hammer, but Frarin parries the attack with his War Hammer!
[Frarin(#31050)] A clang and the two war hammers meet with a reverberating jolt. Having swung past Warven, Frarin quickly stays the motion of his hammer enough to bring the bottom of the haft down to block the stonewright's attack. "The sides, aim for the sides!" he grunts, critical even in mock battle as he pushes Warven's hammer back. "Hammer's too heavy to reach the centre before your opponent reacts." All this is said in a rush of speech, for then the silversmith is bringing the head of the hammer down at Warven's left shoulder.
Frarin attacks Warven with his War Hammer and mildly wounds him!
[Warven(#26511)]
Feeling the sting of the War Hammer upon his shoulder Warven grunts, the blow from Frarin's War hammer carries much more force than Ranol's sword blows, Stepping back Warven side steps and swings his War Hammer once more, aimed at Frarin's side as he swings he says in hurried words "Duly Noted".
Warven attacks Frarin with his War Hammer, but he misses by an arm's length.
[Frarin(#31050)] "Downward blows, use gravity," Frarin grunts again as he skips quickly back a step to avoid Warven's swing and reins in his own weapon after its successful hit. Warven misses him by barely an inch. Frarin's hammer is then thrust forward as he himself rushes the stonewright to throw him off balance. Thus lunging forward, he swings in a low downward arch at Warven's left knee.
Frarin attacks Warven with his War Hammer, but Warven parries the attack with his War Hammer!
Eirdis trundles in, having heard the voice of her kin nearby. She is wearing simple travelling clothes her favourite colour, emerald green in a shirt and light cloak, and a leather-brown in her boots, belt and vest. The Khazad peeks into the training area and notices Frarin and Warven sparring. Not wanting to interrupt, she sidles into a position in Warven's line of sight, behind Frarin. "Come, now, Warven! I've seen you with that hammer, clobber him!" She grins and waves, ducking her head sheepishly, then taking a seat on a small empty firkin.
[Warven(#26511)]
Seeing Frarin's attack Warven thrust s the handle of his own War Hammer down just in time to black the blow, and taking a step forward getting close to his opponent, spotting Eirdis over Frarin's shoulder Warven grins and then shoves the head of his War hammer upwards aiming high.
Warven attacks Frarin with his War Hammer, but he misses by a handspan.
[Frarin(#31050)] "Good!" Frarin says with a grunt as Warven brings down the handle of his weapon to block the silversmith's attack. When Warven comes forward and crowds him, Frarin backpeddles and leans back a bit to avoid the thrust hammerhead. His balance thus thrown off, he presses his lips together as if unhappy with himself and ducks low. His hammer swings in a low arch at Warven's hip.
Frarin attacks Warven with his War Hammer, but Warven parries the attack with his shield!
[Warven(#26511)]
Watching Frarin's attack go low Warven crouches down a bit and blocks the attack with his shield, feeling the blow Warven swings his War Hammer upwards, once again in an uppercut motion just like with Ranol grunting as he dose so.
Warven attacks Frarin with his War Hammer, but Frarin parries the attack with his War Hammer!
Eirdis laughs softly and grits her teeth, cheering Warven on, "Sorry to play favourites, Frarin, but I'm hoping that by cheering Warven on now, he'll complain less of my cooking later on tonight." She gives Warven a grin and a subtle wink, settling back on her seat. "Crowd him! Don't let him take any openings! Keep your hammer and shield closer, Warven!"
[Frarin(#31050)] "C'mon lad!" Frarin grunts with impatience as he reels back his hammer and uses it to shove away Warven's own. "You keep swinging that bloody hammer upward and you'll wear yourself out and hit nothing all in one go!" He pushes Warven's weapon to the side and down, then quickly steps in closer to the stonewright and aims to slam the bottom of his hammer's haft at Warven's left shoulder.
Frarin attacks Warven with his War Hammer and mildly wounds him!
[Warven(#26511)]
Once again Warven feels the sting of Frarin's War Hammer upon his shoulder, grunting in pain he rolls to his left and says "It tends to work well with most" as he steps in once more and swings his War Hammer at Frarin's side in an upward angled attack.
Warven attacks Frarin with his War Hammer and mildly wounds him!
[Frarin(#31050)] And it hits, despite all the silversmith's reservations about upward attacks. It strikes Frarin just under his hip, jingling the chain mail under his tunic. He clenches his teeth and grunts. "And leaves you open if you aren't wary," he says in some sort of pride-covering rebuttal. The head of his hammer swings downwards at that, aimed at Warven's right knee.
Frarin attacks Warven with his War Hammer and mildly wounds him!
[Warven(#26511)]
Not expecting Frarin to stand his ground from the blow Warven feels the pain in his right knee as Frarin's attack makes contact buckling his knee. Grunting, the Stonewright pushes himself backwards with his left leg the uninjured one and once again is upon his feet. Getting back into a fighting stance he says "I -Feel- your point". Moving a bit slower and favoring his left leg a bit Warven presses the attack once more moving in and swinging his War Hammer in a downward motion aimed at Frarins's War Hammer wielding arm.
Warven attacks Frarin with his War Hammer, but he misses by an arm's length.
Eirdis winces inwardly as the two duke it out, noticing the limp in Warven's right leg. She frowns, watching how the stonewright moves, and clucks her tongue. "Frarin, if I may be so bold as to call a halt!" The Mazarbul healer frowns and grabs her satchel, heading into the arena with a determined and concerned expression on her face. "Warven, get your hide onto one of those stones." Somehow, the healer simply -knows- Warven's leg has been injured, and possibly more severely than he thinks.
********************
SOME POSES MISSING FROM DISCONNECT
********************
Eirdis mutters something unseemly under her breath. "I know when something's not right, Warven. When you sparred with Huskarl Ranol, did he manage a hit to your leg?" She stands with her hands on her hips, glaring at the stonewright. "I realize you've recieved worse injuries but I refuse to just stand here and watch while you get an already hurt leg battered to a pulp."
[Frarin(#31050)] "Yourself as well," Frarin says gruffly, despite all criticism to the contrary. He shifts now to rest the head of his weapon on the ground beside him. "I've more years behind me to have learned the hammer than I care to remember, but you will be just as good. You've a good balance," he continues in a scholarly manner. "But against a lighter weapon like Ranol's sword and those upward attacks will fail. When your hammer is raised, it should be ideal for crushing the low attacks from your opponent because gravity and weight are on your side, but not if the momentum of your hammer is headed the opposite direction."
Nevertheless, despite the mini-lecture, the curmugeony silversmith does not seem above praise. "Still, you've a talent for keeping your momentum up for the most part. You were raised on the hammer, I wonder? It shows." Eirdis, on the otherhand, receives only a dry, sarcastic roll of Frarin's eyes. "Oh stop babying him, cousin. He's hardly a beardling, bruises will heal. I wouldn't have kept up if I thought he was going to collapse."
Ranol stands finally and moves to join them, a wide grin on his face. "Let us see then, Frarin.. Sword against hammer, aye?" He asks. The huskarl isn't nearly so concerned about Warven's bruises. He trains with dwarves hours a day and doesn't worry unless someone is bleeding or their eyes are crossed from a blow.
[Warven(#26511)]
Hearing Eirdis word Warven smiles at her and says "Yes Master Ranol also scored a hit on this same leg, but I assure you my knee is perfectly fine, past perhaps the possible bruising." Looking to Frarin the Stonewright says "Aye, that I was. I use this same Hammer for much of my stone work when I am working in the mines, at least on the bigger sections and the pieces that don't do not need to be finely cut" Looking back to Eirdis he smiles once more and gives her a quick wink and says "I do not doubt your skills as a healer, but I promise you I am fine."
Seeing Ranol approach and hearing his words he says with a reluctant look upon his face "Perhaps I should listen to Eirdis, she is the healer, You wouldn't mind showing Master Ranol a thing or two would you Master Frarin."
Eirdis gives Frarin a glare and crosses her arms in front of her chest, glowering at Warven for a moment before she finally relents with a small smile to Warven. "Well... If you insist, I suppose I can't in all honesty drag you back to camp and heal you, can I?" She shrugs and murmurs softly, "Have you supped yet, Stonewright?"
[Warven(#26511)]
Looking back to Eirdis the Stonewright smiles and says "That I have not, and I do owe you a dinner now don't I" Looking to Ranol and Frarin he says "I thank the both of you for the sparring matches, you are both great fighters" Bowing his head and then looking back up "Perhaps I should rest my leg, I still have much work to do here before we leave."
[Frarin(#31050)] "Healer, healer, aye healer," Frarin grumbles, shaking his head and frowning to himself. He looks quite put out with the spar so stalled, but he almost smiles once Ranol joins them again and asks for a spar of his own. "I believe you've stabbed me in a spar before, cousin," he says, an odd smirk on his face. "Aye, aye, let's then. If you're so keen to learn the hammer, you would do well to know how to take advantage of it as much when you wield it as when you do not." He moves away from Warven and Eirdis, nodding only briefly when the stonewright gives his thanks for the two spars. But then Frarin is settling into his usual fighting stance.
Ranol grins widely as Frarin accepts the challenge. "It's not that I'm suddenly keen on the hammer, Frarin. It's that I recognize that -all- weapons have strengths and weaknesses. Even my pointy stick, as Lord Gimli so calls it." That said, he wastes no time in rushing in to make a fast swing at Frarin's side, trying to catch him unaware.
You drop your War Hammer.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
Your attack against Frarin mildly wounds him!
[Warven(#26511)]
As Frarin and Ranol begin their spar Warven looks to Eirdis and the two begin to make their way out of the Training grounds, Warven still limping a bit as he follows the Healer.
[Frarin(#31050)] A fast swing indeed and it catches Frarin just above the hip, bringing a grunt from the merchant. Reactively he steps away from the blow, then drops his hammer in a low arch aimed under Ranol's shield, at his knee.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he misses!
Ranol backsteps quickly away from the hammer, relying on his speed to get him out of harms way, but sacrificing some balance as Frarin criticized earlier. He swing's the sword down in response to the arcing hammer, aiming to hit Frarin's arm with the flat of the blade.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
Frarin parries your attack with his War Hammer!
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin pulls back his hands just enough so that Ranol's sword lands with a clang on the haft of his hammer instead of the silversmith's arm. Perhaps seeking to take advantage of Ranol's off-balance, Frarin then steps forward to crowd the huskarl, thrusting his left shoulder towards Ranol's chest while he swings down again at his left leg.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he hits! Ouch!
Given how Warven always keeps a distance to build up powerful swings, Ranol doesn't anticipate Frarin moving in close so quickly. He brings his shield up in anticipation of the silversmith ramming him with his shoulder, and ends up wide open as the hammer slams into his leg. A loud crack splits the air right as Frarin's hammer strikes true, and the huskarl staggers back with shock on his face. Only, he seems to be moving just fine and it's some men in the background breaking down wooden rods for practice that made that horrible noise.
Ranol narrows his gaze in concentration and makes a quick jab with the blade to the left in a feint, then switches up by swinging the sword around in an arcing slash at Frarin's right side.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
Frarin parries your attack with his War Hammer!
Ranol narrows his gaze in concentration and makes a quick jab with the blade to the left in a feint, then switches up by swinging the sword around in an arcing slash at Frarin's right side.'.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin skips back after his attack strikes true and Ranol staggers back in shock. It gives the silversmith a moment to himself recover and distance himself from where the huskarl's quicker sword might more effective. Ranol moves in again though and feigns to the left and Frarin is already moving his hammer up to bring it to protect his left side. Under the hammer whips the short broadsword and Frarin only just manages to redirect his hammer downward so that the haft knocks Ranol's blade away.
Thus awkwardly positioned, Frarin steps to his right and slightly away to build up his momentum again. It's a hasty move, with the hammer head arching swiftly up and around to catch Ranol's left shoulder.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and you block his attack with your shield!
A red bearded dwarf appears at the edge of the yard carrying a warhammer and a helmet. Hildis recognizes the two sparring and nods to himself at they position themselves, an almost self satisfied smile when he looks over Ranol's stance. He stops and balances on the hammer and nearly falls off into a nose dive when the crack resounds across the yard. Shock leaves him open mouthed and a strangled yell leaves his throat. Strangled and cut off in embarrassment as it becomes quickly obvious that Ranol has not had a leg broken. He clears his throat nd edges closer with an unconcealed sigh and a shake of his head.
Seated at one of the benches is Thari, leaning back with arms folded over chest. She is grinning into her beard while watching the sparring pair. Well, really, grinning at Frarin.
Ranol is again watching Frarin for that move to build up speed with the weight of the hammer, and throws up his shield to knock the hammer away. As he's pushing against the heavy weapon he stays in close to his opponent. The huskarl makes a weak slap at the silversmith again with the flat of his blade. One difference between their weapons is that even weak hits can do damage when a sword has a sharp edge.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
Frarin parries your attack with his War Hammer!
The blood-red sun sinks below the dark, cinder-ridden, and cloud-filled horizon, leaving the night pitch black.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin lets his hammer slide down Ranol's shield when it strikes the barrier and thus he knocks away the huskarl's weak attack with relative ease. But the closeness of the two is doing nothing for Frarin's momentum and so the silversmith backs up again, but he simultaneous goes against his own advice to Warven and swings upward. Both hands on the end of the haft, he swings the hammerhead to come up just under Ranol's shield, hopefully to force it away and strike the huskarl's protected hip.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and you parry his attack with your Short Broadsword!
Thari stands and paces around the outside of the circle, still grinning like a fool with her hands tucked into her leather belt. The little dwarf gives a bit of a discreet hop as Frarin parries the strike, then calls out a less-discreet, "Frarin ai-menu, Ranol! Beware!" And then a laugh.
Perhaps if Warven hadn't used the same technique earlier Ranol might have been tricked by it. But after the clever attack to his leg the huskarl is watching for Frarin to come in with a low attack. He jabs the sword down to intercept and as soon as he's stalled the motion of the hammer he reverses the direction of the blade and whips it back up at Frarin's midsection. (Because crotch would just be cheap in a spar and they're faaamily now)
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
Frarin parries your attack with his War Hammer!
Hildis moves out of the arena area to join Thari on the benches. She places the warhammer against one then stands to watch. She narrows her eyes at Thari's call but gives her a grin and a shrug after the flurry of parried blows. "Good one Ranol!" she calls.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin makes no reaction at Thari's cry, though surely he must have heard it and now be aware of her presence. Instead, however, his mind is on the darting sword, light enough to be quick to handle and short enough to be superior in close quarters. But Frarin brings his arms up and thereby the whole of his weapon, instead of a swinging motion. Ranol's sword lands at the centre of the haft with a clang and Frarin forces it back. Moving quickly, he shifts his hammer around so that now the the weight of the head is in his left hand rather than his right. It swings in a short arch towards Ranol's right elbow.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he misses!
Someone calls Thari's name off in the direction of the hill and she turns, just missing seeing how her husband's latest swing doesn't connect. She moves away where she is called and is soon lost from sight.
Ranol quickly dodges away as the hard hammer head swings in at his sword.. arm. The huskarl presses the offensive, moving in close again to cripple Frarin's ability to build up power, trying to keep the spar on his terms. He swing the blade at Frarin again.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
[Combat(#13388)->Ranol]
Frarin parries your attack with his War Hammer!
[Frarin(#31050)] The war hammer may be best suited to building momentum, but it is not restricted to it. Frarin swings the head of his hammer down to knock away Ranol's sword, but uses the then elevated bottom end of the haft to press his attack. Face grim with concentration, he returns Ranol's crowding tactic and aims the end of his war hammer at the huskarl's chin.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he hits! Ouch!
The warhammer smacks into his chin and Ranol grunts in pain. He still stays close to Frarin, blindly slapping down at the back of Frarin's knee, trying to trip the dwarf off balance.
You blindly attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
[Combat(#13388)->Ranol]
Frarin dodges your attack.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin steps forward when Ranol fails to back away and instead swings at the back of his leg. The short broadsword meets air as Frarin steps past Ranol and twists quickly to avoid leaving his back to the huskarl. He releases his left hand from his hammer as he turns, swinging it as he comes around towards the centre of Ranol's upper back.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he hits! Ouch!
Ranol takes a solid blow to the back, the metal slapping against chain and he moves away from Frarin to get a more solid, defensive stance. Again he tries for a feign, watching the hammer and jabbing with the blade down low in attempt to coax Frarin to swing towards it, but pulls the attack and switches up to a slash at the silversmith's torso at the last moment.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
[Combat(#13388)->Ranol]
Frarin dodges your attack.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin pulls his hammer back once it connects and swiftly catches it in both hands again. He begins to bring the bottom of the haft down to block Ranol's feign, but lifts both hands and skips back a step when the huskarl slashes at his middle instead. The point of the sword catches a wrinkle of his jerkin, but padded it leaves no tear. Hands thus above his head, Frarin brings the head of his hammer down with a grunt, aimed at Ranol's right shoulder.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he misses!
Ranol skips to the side quickly, his boots crunching on the dirt beneath them as he dodges out of the way of the sweeping hammer. As Frarin follow's through with the downstroke, Ranol hacks at his cousin's husband again, swinging the broadsword hard at his side.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
[Combat(#13388)->Ranol]
Your attack against Frarin mildly wounds him!
[Frarin(#31050)] The padded blade solidly connects with Frarin's upper arm, enough to be quite a painful slash had the edge not been blunted. As it is, it will likely leave a good bruise. The silversmith gives a muffled grunt as his hammer falls harmlessly towards the earth, but instead of attempting to back away again and possibly leaving his back to the huskarl, Frarin brings the head of his hammer back up. He does not swing it though, instead using it in a punching motion towards Ranol's abdomen.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he hits! Ouch!
ARB: You've been injured for 1 hp's by Frarin's attack...
...you have 92 left. Please RP this injury accordingly.
[Hildis(#23062)]
Hildis stands on the edge of the practice circle mesmerized by the two dwarves. She winces involuntarily as the warhammer clangs on Ranol's armor and shifts with each of his movements as though she were swinging the sword.
Ranol will have more than a few bruises come morning, but he's rather competative at times and isn't ready to give up the spar. After he scores the hit he pulls the blade back to prepare for another swing, but the head of the hammer is jammed into his abdomen and he staggers back with a gasp as air is pushed from his lungs. He takes a moment to recover, slowly pacing around Frarin, brows drawn in concentration as sweat trickles down his face, breathing hard. He steps in with a sidesweep of the flat of the blade.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
Frarin dodges your attack.
[Frarin(#31050)] Beads of sweat gather on Frarin's brow too and his breathing is grown laboured. He is favouring his old limp too, keeping more of his weight on his right leg. But Ranol's moment to recover allows the silversmith to straight and back away from him, taking no advantage of the pause. Frarin switches his grip on his hammer again, so that the weight rests in his right hand. And when Ranol presses the offensive again, he is ready for him. Skipping back slightly awkwardly with his pained leg, Frarin avoids the huskarl's swing and quickly brings the head of his hammer down, aiming to catch it across the knuckles of Ranol's sword hand.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and you parry his attack with your Short Broadsword!
Ranol catches the hammer against the crossguard of the sword and harmlessly guides it away, then takes a step back and swings the blade around again for a smack down at Frarin's shoulder. He's noticed the limp, but isn't going to use his friend's old injury to his advantage. He has more respect for Frarin than that.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
Your attack against Frarin mildly wounds him!
The red bearded dwarf is probably unaware of the gasp that mirrors Ranol she clenches her hands into fists as though she is pained by the hammer then covers her midriff as if to ward off more blows."
[Frarin(#31050)] Another grunt from Frarin as the short broadsword catches him across the shoulder. He gives a huff of breath, but does not pause as he twists back around to bring himself out of the awkward position, aiming the bottom of the hammer's haft for a glancing strike at Ranol's elbow.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and he misses!
Ranol jerks his arm back out of the way as he sees the haft jabbing towards his elbow and steps away, circling the older dwarf again. He tries to dart around behind Frarin, swinging the flat of the blade at his upper torso again.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
[Combat(#13388)->Ranol]
Your attack against Frarin mildly wounds him!
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin overestimates the aim of Ranol's sword as it licks in again for his torso. The silversmith brings the head of his hammer up to block the blow, but too far, and he does not attempt to back up at the same time. The blade catches him just up and inside of his hip. This brings a more forceful grunt from him, but perhaps Frarin is as competitive as Ranol, for he does not back away. Instead he again releases his left hand from the upper end of his hammer's haft and swings the head with his right hand alone to again follow Ranol and land a blow on the huskarl's back.
Frarin attacks you with his War Hammer!...
...and you parry his attack with your Short Broadsword!
[Hildis(#23062)]
Hildis sways with their movements, unable to hold in her gasps. Her green eyes follow Ranol anxiously as Frarin moves into him again.
Ranol is is twisting back to face Frarin again, and sees the wide, powerful swing of the hammer cutting the air towards him. He barely pulls his sword up again to block in time, the metal ringing through the padding and vibrating through to his hand from the force of the blow. He only tightens his grip on the the haft and pushes the hammer away, feet planted. Again, after deflecting Frarin's attack wide, he tries to get in a quick counter-strike in by reversing the strike and slapping the sword up at the silversmith again.
You attack Frarin with your Short Broadsword...
[Combat(#13388)->Ranol]
Frarin parries your attack with his War Hammer!
Braldor has disconnected.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin forces his hammer down, using gravity to his advantage, and it clatters against Ranol's sword and knocks it away. He quickly brings the heavy weapon up into both hands again and holds it diagonally across his chest, but he backs away, holding up a few fingers to indicate an end to the spar. "Stay, stay," he says gruffly, a bead of sweat rolling from his brow down the side of his nose. "That was well fought indeed, cousin, but we could both use a rest, I think."
Ranol backs off when Frarin signals to stop, nodding in acknowledgement. He's breathing hard, and tucks the sword under his arm so that he can pull his hemlet from his head. His short black hair is matted wetly against his brow. "Good fight, cousin.. " He agrees, grinning as he catches his breath. "Very good. I need a drink." He glances around, then notices the other dwarf that's watching. "Hello, Hildis." He manages an awkward bow towards her.
[Frarin(#31050)] Likewise breathing hard and the hair about his brow sticking to his face, Frarin nods sharply and lowers the head of his hammer to the ground. "Aye, well fought. You may need learning to wield a war hammer, but you are masterful with that sword when opposed to it." Wiping his brow with the back of his hand, he turns when Ranol greets Hildis and offers a bow to the merchant as well. "Good afternoon, Hildis," he says, giving smile as his breathing begins to calm.
[Hildis(#23062)]
The Barazin bows to them both managing a solemn nod to her clansman Frarin and a smile for Ranol. "Good afternoon to you both. That was quite a spar! Hammer and sword seem so mismatched but when you both are wielding them they look very dangerous. What would you like to drink?"
Ranol smiles at the praise from Frarin. "Thank you.. perhaps someday I can be as skilled as you in the hammer, cousin. I will be feeling a great many bruises come morning." He shifts his attention back towards Hildis. "You can't plan on knowing what weapon an opponent might wield against you. Almost anything can be dangerous when used against someone.." He speaks in a casual tone, running his hand through his hair a few times, "Perhaps we could all get a drink at the tavern?"
A thin bit of light filters down through the mass of smoke and haze issuing from Mt. Doom. The sun has risen, but the day remains dark.
[Frarin(#31050)] "Aye, they would seem," Frarin nods. He gestures towards Hildis' own war hammer. "But if you wield it properly, a hammer can be superior to a short broadsword, and vis versa. It is a short broadsword against another that would be a fast-paced battle indeed." He nods at Ranol. "Aye, well said. And aye, the tavern sounds a welcome relief."
From Husker's Rise comes Braldor, the Thane sporting a mail of dwarven mail openly, instead of his favored blue cloak. He comes with quick step, and approaches the gathered dwarves, curious to see what is going on.
[Hildis(#23062)] Braldor coming on the scene makes Hildis hesitate. She looks at the two thirsty fighters in turn and the fresh Thane. "I would like to practise, I don't want to be a liability if there is a fight."
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin wipes his sleeve across his brow and hefts up his hammer to loop it back into his belt. But as he looks up again he catches sight of Braldor entering the practicing grounds. A frown near instantly descends and the silversmith's grim visage returns as he looks to Ranol. "Right, tavern then?" he says without greeting the Thane Bundazanul.
Ranol doesn't notice the approach of Braldor, his back to that direction. At Hildis's request he lets out an exhausted breath. "Perhaps later? After I've had a chance to rest?" He's already unwrapping the padding from the sword to slide it into it's sheath. He notices the look that Frarin levels on something past him, and turns to see. "Lord Braldor! Good day!" He bows to the thane.
[Braldor(#30149)] "And a good day to ye, Huskarl", comes Braldor's reply, as he smiles to Ranol. "I see ye're still practicing... good! I feel in need of some practice meself also... care to stay for a bit longer, master Frarin", he adds, with a sly look at the Barazin silversmith. "I've heard ye're mighty with that hammer of yers". To Hildis a nod and a smile are given in greeting.
[Frarin(#31050)] The frown deepens on Frarin's face and his eyes narrow at the Thane. He glances at Hildis, then back to Braldor. "I've already been sparring for a time, my lord," he says after a moment. Indeed, though his breathing is returned to normal, sweat still glistens on his brow and under his eyes, and he favours his right leg. But the barest hint of a smug smile pulls at one corner of his mouth, almost nonexistant. "But if you are happy with a weary opponent, then I will remain."
Ranol looks between the thane and the silversmith, but doesn't pay them much mind as they fall into their usual goading routine. He slides his broadsword into it's sheath, then begins winding the cloth around the scabbard where he always keeps it tied.
[Braldor(#30149)] "Oh, in that case, please, go and rest", Braldor says to Frarin. "I wouldn't want to deliver to Thari a tired and beat up husband... I wouldn't hear the end of it for years!", he adds.
[Hildis(#23062)]
"Thane Braldor if neither of these two are up for continuing would you consider training with a debutante like myself?" The Barazin stands straight and proud but she flushes a bright red when she addresses him undermining her pretended confidence.
[Frarin(#31050)] "A few rounds, my lord," Frarin says in a tight tone, lips pressing together. He glances at Hildis, but is already pulling forth his hammer again. "Just a few rounds, cousin, then he is yours." He rubs a sleeve across both eyes to clear the remaining sweat, but then takes his hammer in both hands and settles into a balanced stance. He nods to Braldor, frown remaining. "After you, my lord."
[Braldor(#30149)] "Certainly, Hildis", Braldor replie,s nodding to her. But then Frarin speaks, and a tight smile forms in the Thane's lips. "After I finish off with master frarin, we can surely have a few rounds of practice, indeed!". His hand is going to his axe, and soon the massive blade is at the ready. "Oh no, cousin... after you", the thane says to frarin, as he watches him intently.
Ranol watches the exchanges quietly, saying nothing as Braldor and Frarin exchange barbs. Hildis is given a surprised glance when she requests time with the thane, but the huskarl only moves to sit on one of the benches, still looking exhausted from his long day of training.
[Hildis(#23062)]
Ranol's surprise does not go unremarked. Hildis purses her lips, raises an eyebrow and shrugs as if to say, 'If not you someone has to train me.' She goes to the benches not far from Ranol and settles herself to watch the sparring.
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin's expression is a mixture of sarcasm and dislike when Braldor speaks to Hildis, especially at the mention of 'finish off'. But he waits until the thane is at the ready, then gives a sharp nod in acknowledge. Still favouring his left leg, he approaches Braldor at first slowly, treading a half-circle before abruptly rushing forward. His hammer swings out, curving a low upward loop for the thane's left knee.
Frarin attacks Braldor with his War Hammer, but he misses by a long shot.
[Braldor(#30149)] And Braldor is not there, and Frarin's hammer swooshes without striking! Indeed, the Thane moves to his right, avoiding the Barazin's hammer by a couple of inches. His axe is now at work, and even if padded heavily so as to avoid making massive damage, its weight and the strnght with which it's wielded may amount to a bruise or two, if it strikes. And in it comes, angling from top right to lower left, aimed at the Silversmith's midst.
Braldor attacks Frarin with his Battle Axe and mildly wounds him!
[Frarin(#31050)] The impact of Braldor's axe catches Frarin square in the chest, driving him back a staggered step and forcing the air from his lungs. Padding or not, the heavy weapon seems to have hurt the silversmith quite a bit, for he does not straighten fully, instead aiming a weaker swing of his hammer at Braldor's left hip.
Frarin is Barazin. Hildis looks startled when she claps her hands at his miss on Braldor. She glances sideways at Ranol, her chin high and clears her throat. "How long did you train today Ranol? You are so good with the sword, nearly unbeatable and when you train with the hammer more you will be a frightening dwarf to have as an adversary on the field."
Frarin attacks Braldor with his War Hammer, but he misses by a mile.
[Braldor(#30149)] And Frarin's stroke again does not find its mark, as Braldor moves with speed and agility out of harm's way, twisting to a side. using the momentum of his action, the Thane brings his axe to bear on the silversmith once more, aiming at Frarin's chest.
Braldor attacks Frarin with his Battle Axe and mildly wounds him!
Ranol is watching the spar, his brows drawn together tightly as the two battle. Hildis is given a glance to acknowledge that he heard her, but his eyes go back to the combatants immediately. "I have been here since sunrise this morning.. " He smiles faintly at her compliment, "Thank you. But I wouldn't go so far as to say unbeatable. I have been bested too many times."
[Frarin(#31050)] The strike is almost the same as the last, with Frarin unable to bring his weapon to bear before the thane's axe lands solidly on his chest. Again it forces the air from his lungs, accompanied this time by a harsh cough and grunt. But the silversmith does not back away this time, standing his ground and rushing Braldor as soon as the axe is clear of his chest. He aims his shoulder at the thane's chest while swinging his hammer in a low arch at his lower left leg.
Frarin attacks Braldor with his War Hammer and mildly wounds him!
[Braldor(#30149)] And this time Frarin's hammer finds its mark, as Braldor is this time too slow to react. Even if the hammer does not impact him on his lower stomach fully, it does strike to a side, and a slight grimace on the Thane's face... cearly, that one hurt. Still, this is a dwarf of Erebor, and hurting or not, he fights on, his axe raised again and coming down on Frarin.
Braldor attacks Frarin with his Battle Axe and mildly wounds him!
[Hildis(#23062)] Hildis follows the combat closely, she restrains a clap for Frarin when he strikes Braldor. Glancing at Ranol she murmurs, "They are good, so good. I want to be able to hold my own if there is a fight." More quietly she asks leaning toward Ranol, "Is it true that they don't get on? I mean," her eyes swivel back to the fighters, "they certainly seemed cool when they decided to spar."
[Frarin(#31050)] This time the axe lands on the soft flesh between shoulder and neck and, though the chain mail beneath lessen the impact, it causes Frarin to jerk his head slightly as if the thane has struck a nerve. But the silversmith seeks to take advantage of the high position of Braldor's axe and, though bowed, he swings out at Braldor's middle, grunting with the effort.
Frarin attacks Braldor with his War Hammer, but he misses by a handspan.
[Braldor(#30149)] And Braldor hops back, and Frarin's thrust doesn't reach its intended target. But the thane does not press on the attack, but lowers his weapon. "Yer tired, alright, and it seems ye need to get that leg looked after", he says, signalling woth his axe frarin's left leg. "I think I have sparred enough with ye, Silversmith", he adds, as he turns. "Perhaps, Hildis, this would be a good time to spar, ye and me?"
Ranol smirks at Hildis's question. "Oh, quite true. I think Frarin was rather foolish to rise to this challenge." The huskarl responds softly, his tone hinting at irritation. "They have been at each other for years." When the spar seems to be completed, Ranol stands. "Good match!" He calls, grinning now. "Perhaps we can get that drink now? I'm thirsty, cousin."
[Frarin(#31050)] Frarin backs away from Braldor once the thane leaves off the spar and the look of his face is one of weariness and frustration, perhaps irritated at Braldor calling the spar. Or more likely, irritated at Braldor in general. That sounds about right. "I am fine, my lord," he grumbles gruffly, making an effort to stand straight despite the clear bow in his posture, evidence of the two blow to his chest. "Thank you for the spar, lord," he adds at the last, inclining his head a bit before turning.
He leaves the training circle with a clear limp, a stiff neck and a hunched back, but most especially none of his previous elation at the sparring. When Ranol jumps up to renew the offer of the tavern, Frarin turns a stony face on him and shrugs with his unharmed shoulder. "Don't patronise me," he mutters without looking at Ranol. Overall, he looks as irritated with himself as the huskarl is. "Best check your thane doesn't need you before you leave." Certainly it seems an invitation to indeed continue onto the tavern, but Frarin doesn't wait for Ranol, instead limping heavily from the grounds as soon as he is done speaking.
The smile fades quickly when Frarin barks at him in anger, and now the huskarl is left with a choice. He's weary of sparring and has already put in an overly full day. One hand rubs through his hair while he looks between the departing Barazin and Braldor. "Aye.. I'll catch up.." Ranol says. Frarin can stomp some of that anger off first.
[Hildis(#23062)]
Frarin's irritation, Ranol's distance all contribute to the deep frown on the Barazin maiden's face. She watches Frarin stomp off. She needs a moment to compose herself and trains her eyes to the ground until she can lift them with at least a semblance of tranquility. Clearing her throat she stands and goes to pick up her war hammer.
"Thane Braldor would you be willing to go a few rounds with me. I am still very much a novice," she says while fitting herself with her helmet.
[Braldor(#30149)] "Surely, Hildis", Braldor replies, nodding to her, as he takes a few steps back, and readies his battle axe. "Ready when ye are".
[Hildis(#23062)]
Hildis gives Ranol a look from under eyelashes an unspoken question in her eyes. He is confusing her with his distance and when she looks at him again there is decision on her face, a new determination straightening her shoulders.
Slipping a finger under her helmet strap she walks into the arena and lifts her hammer two-handed, spreads her feet into a classic stance and nods at the Thane.
Ranol lingers, slowly collecting his gear while he watches his thane and the barazin, a faint frown on his face. The glance from Hildis isn't missed and his gaze wanders away quickly, but soon he's watching again.
[Braldor(#30149)] Braldor starts to circle around Hildis, noting the barazin's stance, the way she grips her hammer... and then, with a suddenness that might surprise some, he comes forth, his axe coming on a sideways chop aimed at Hildis's thigh.
Braldor attacks Hildis with his Battle Axe and mildly wounds it!
[Hildis(#23062)]
The Barazin's eyes widen as she sees the hammer coming and freezes to the spot. Her eyes are round saucers and then she wakes up, enough to begin to step back from the hammer and avoid having her femur broken but not by much. The hammer lands hard. "Oouf," she gasps as though it knocked the wind from her and she staggers under the blow. Still, she lifts her hammer and instead of moving completely out of range moves into Braldor swinging at hip level.
Hildis attacks Braldor with its War Hammer, but it misses by a long shot.
[Hildis(#23062)]
The Barazin's eyes widen as she sees the axe coming and freezes to the spot. Her eyes are round saucers and then she wakes up, enough to begin to step back from the axe and avoid having her femur broken but not by much. The hammer lands hard. "Oouf," she gasps as though it knocked the wind from her and she staggers under the blow. Still, she lifts her hammer and instead of moving completely out of range moves into Braldor swinging at hip level.
[Braldor(#30149)] And the Thane twists, his legs carrying him away from harm speedily. And then Braldor, flexing his muscled arms, brings his axe to bear on Hildis in a roundhouse chop. Luckily, Braldor's axe is heavily padded, for such a powerful attack may cause severe damage if it hits.
Braldor attacks Hildis with his Battle Axe and mildly wounds it!
[Hildis(#23062)] Hildis literally chews her moustache to keep from crying aloud when the axe hits her shoulder. She staggers to the right trying to lift her hammer. Against all reasonable rules for combat she turns her head to glance at Ranol's reaction. Gritting her teeth she lifts her hammer and moves out of range, she moves to the left and then to the right and swings with all her weight behind it overhanded towards Braldor's shoulder.
Hildis attacks Braldor with its War Hammer, but it misses by an arm's length.
Ranol winces as Hildis freezes and takes the hard hit. He says nothing though, and stays out of the way, watching. When she looks his way he quickly shakes his head, "Focus on the fight!" He says sharply, pointing towards the thane.
[Braldor(#30149)] A twist and a hop save Braldor from falling under such a mighty blow, and soon he is position tostrike... yet he does not. Breathing heavily, Braldor lowers his axe, and nods to Hildis. "Aye, as Ranol says, when ye're in a fight, be it a spar or not, yer head must BE in the fight... and not somewhere else", hea dminishes. "A distraction in a fight might prove fatal, even if it's a glance to the side", he adds. "Yet, I deem that with more work, ye'll improve in the use of yer hammer".
[Hildis(#23062)]
Hildis on the other hand is breathing heavily and making an effort to not show how much pain she is in. A bead of perspiration makes her squint as she bows her head acknowledging his admonishment. She shoots a quick glance at Ranol, too, nodding to him to show she heard his words. "Thank you thane Braldor. I must keep my mind on the business at hand and thank you for saying I will improve. She lowers her hammer and bows more formally.
[Braldor(#30149)] "Well, ye're a dwarf of Erebor, and the proud blood of Durin's Folk runs on yer veins! of course ye'll get better at handling that hammer", Braldor replies, smiling now to Hildis. "Now... go and see to Ranol. I'm sure he needs yer help, after sparring with that B...., errr, with Frarin", he adds, correcting himself quickly. "I shall go back to our Guild Hall. I bid ye a good day, Hildis".
"Me? Oh.. I was just collecting my things and was going to join Frarin for that drink." Ranol says when Braldor addresses him. He bows to the thane, "I'll check in with you later, my lord." And the huskarl is beating a swift retreat, for whatever reason.
Players: Ranol, Warven, Frarin, Hildis, Thari, Braldor
Located in: Erebor
