thelegion | ➷ Rise to the Challenge [Video]

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➷ Rise to the Challenge [Video]

Have any of you ever fought a dragon before?

[Rebecca’s face graces the network for the first time, eyes bright even if she looks a little uncertain. Starting off like that...it’s bound to get SOMEONE’s attention, isn’t it?]

Ah—I’m Rebecca, by the way. I’ve never...what’s the word...video'd myself for anyone before. But I’ve been thinking about it, and I was wondering if anyone here had. You see, before I came here, my company and I were headed to a place called Dragon’s Gate. A wicked man is attempting to summon dragons to our world, and I really don't feel like I need to get started on why that would be horrible.

[She closes her eyes for a second—takes a deep breath, calms down before smiling again.]

So I was thinking...if I returned home...maybe there’d be some knowledge from here I can bring back to them, right? I can’t say we’ll face a dragon for certain, and we have the legendary weapons...but any knowledge would be helpful, I think! Just please keep in mind that where I come from...Elibe...the world isn’t anything like this one at all. We don't have 'electricity' and we bathe with water warmed with fire. Most of us live in villages or hamlets, and our biggest buildings are castles, not skyscrapers.

[Did she accidentally describe that she’s obviously from a JRPG? No, of course not.]

So...does anyone have any advice? It’d mean a lot to me, really! And I'd like to speak to more of you as well, I really shouldn't have put this off.

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I hear that breaking the sword of the guy trying to control the dragon works pretty well.

[Just. Y'know. Something he heard around the block.]

I saw a cartoon once where it said that all dragons have an unarmored spot on their chest?

[There's radio silence as Rebecca tries to remember how to switch to audio herself. She's successful.]

If only it were that easy! If it were, I wouldn't even have to ask.

[He can probably teleport like his Morphs, she figures. And even then, such an operation wouldn't be left to her.]

Is that true? When I saw Nin...when I saw a dragon for the first time, it looked there was scales everywhere. It was a frightening sight.

[He would've been fine doing one while she did the other!]

Sorry about that, then.

[Anyway!]

Yeah. It was like, one scale missing, so this guy shot a black arrow straight through it to the dragon's heart. It was pretty cool. I remember reading another one when I was a kid that had this guy set up spears in a lake, so when the dragon slid down for a bath, it impaled itself.

[Dragons never get happy endings.]

If push comes to shove, try taking a blaster cannon or something from here with you when you eventually go home. If your plans don't work, there's nothing like a big laser to solve your problems.

[That was an awfully quick apology, but it's fine. She doesn't need to dwell on that. Ninian had been such a nice girl, too...Rebecca'd hoped they could have been friends someday.]

Ah, is that...if that were true, I might be of use after all! When it comes to archery, I've really improved, I could certainly strike a target of that size.

[She's come a long way since she's used her bow for hunting. Now she hunts the greatest game, ~~enemy soldiers~~ dragons.]

But...ah...I wouldn't be against the idea of taking something home if it meant helping everyone. I'm not even sure how I'd begin to explain it, however. I don't think anyone would believe what I'm experiencing.

That's a good way to think about things! [Sure beats the alternative. Especially since he's working off of half-remembered plot points from a Hobbit cartoon he saw as a kid.] Even if it doesn't end up working, you've still got targets like the eyes, nose, and mouth. Probably all bigger targets, too.

[In Jason's experience, a girl with a bow and arrow is a total game changer for some fights.]

Could you just call it magic and get away with it?

I can't say I've ever hard of someone slaying a beast by aiming for the nose, but that only means I could be the first. Wouldn't that be something?

[He's not wrong, archer girls are the best! She'd know.]

Hmm...I...I don't know that I could, sir. If it's a tool of some kind, someone could easily disassemble or break it, right? I suppose I could say it was a legendary weapon that had chosen me, but then I'd have to explain when I'd got it...

What would you do in a situation like that?

You might be putting down a new method by going for that. Just. Don't let them nickname you after a nose.

[That'd be lame.]

What, if I had weapon that shouldn't exist in my world? I guess it depends. If I wasn't allowed to talk about this place, I'd hide it until I absolutely had to use it, then explain everything later. If I was, I'd tell my closest friends. I mean, I'd have a flight ring, a shiny superweapon, and possibly an omnicomm, right? That'd be enough evidence to prove that something happened. And, if the thing did work and bring down the dragon for you, then they should just be happy it worked.

I don't really want to be nicknamed after a nose shot...how disgusting. But it'd be a small price to pay, I suppose.

[Her mind comes up with a few possibilities. "Rebooger" is the worst one she can think of, but surely no one in the army could be that childish?]

I hadn't even thought of bringing the omnicom or the flight ring home. At this point, I'd have to at least explain the change in fashion. The clothes here are created so differently from the ones back home. I bet Lord Pent would have a million questions for me as is, let alone the others. Maybe I should start thinking of answers before I go home.

I guess if everyone knew how I got the nickname, the rest wouldn't matter.

[Seriously, who'd care about you being named Snotlord or something if everyone knew you got the name by killing a dragon?]

Well, I guess you could leave the stuff here? But being able to fly's just so useful. And not even just for fighting. I don't think I'd give it up.

I...I suppose. The important thing is that everyone's lives are saved, of course.

["Snotlord" is the worst thing to have a boyfriend call you!]

I haven't had much practice with it. I've spent a lot of time trying to get used to the technology. I'm having fun with it, I've never had the chance to study or learn so much before.

Yeah, but having a cool nickname would be a plus.

[Nah. "The ex" is worse.]

Man, I'm kinda stuck. Like, I wanna learn stuff here and all, and I'm going to school, but I'm also gonna have to go right back to school when I get home. Pretty much everything I'm learning here would be science fiction.

I think I'd prefer a more ladylike nickname myself. Hm...like maybe Lady Archer, or Green Arrow. Those both sound nicer, don't they?

[That's deep, though, but if she had an ex she'd be able to handle him. She's 16, though, she'd rather get a nice boyfriend than worry about losing one.]

I've never thought about it like that. There has to be some sort of skill you can learn here that you can take back with you, right? Maybe...vegetarian cooking? Or writing?

Yeah, those would work pretty great. Why not just bring in your codename from here, though?

[If she was already used to being called it... Wait, she did have one, didn't she?]

I don't even know. I know two of my friends who'd be better at figuring that sort of stuff out than me, I just hit stuff really hard. Which, y'know. Useful here, not so useful elsewhere.

Well, if making peace with the dragons somehow isn't an option, and I'd suggest finding out if it is first, it depends on what kind of dragons you're dealing with. Anything you can tell me about them?

Making peace with them isn't something our group has discussed in detail.

[She takes a few seconds to mull it over.]

There's one girl...her name was Ninian, she and her brother are dragons who can take human form. Yet other dragons...I'm not sure how'd they'd react if they were suddenly pulled to our world. It's not even a conversation I'd usually be a part of.

Well, if their first reaction ends up being an attempt to set you on fire, I can't exactly argue against needing to defend yourself.

That's sort of why I need to know what you're dealing with. How big they are, if they breathe fire, ice, lightning, boiling hot water, magma, acid...strategies for fighting dragons depends on the dragon.

That's...that's where it gets complicated, isn't it? I have no idea what kind of dragons he could summon. I only meant...to come up with anything that could help. His morphs are so powerful, and we might not be able to stop him in time.

I know we'll succeed, of course, but...as for what kind of dragons we might face, I haven't a clue.

Does summoning them let this guy control them? Because I've got advice that'll keep the dragons alive, and advice that will end with them desd, and I'd rather it be the first option.

Edited 2016-12-18 22:44 (UTC)

His only goal is to be powerful. I can't say for sure which it is, either. I'd never realized dragons so be complicated.

[She's a bit deflated—she thought this was a good idea, but she can't even guess at some of the questions being asked.]

Well, first of all: don't get set on fire.

[ Don't worry guys, the most helpful Legionnaire has arrived. ]

That hadn't crossed my mind, sir. I'll be sure to add it right at the top of the list.

[She's being sarcastic, but, hey. It did get her to smile.]

Sorry, the only dragon I've encountered was mechanical and after Leo fixed him up he wasn't attacking the camp any more.

[Pause]

Oh, and then he was our ship for awhile, but Leo was repairing him so that only lasted so long.

[Jason sighs.]

Sorry, this isn't helping much, is it?

Well, I've never heard of a mechanical dragon, so you've at least taught me something new.

[She smiles. There, there. That was an attempt that was made.]

I'm afraid the dragons we might face will be much more flesh, blood, and scale than machine, however.

He's pretty unique, so it would honestly surprise me more if you had encountered a mechanical dragon.

We have stories about dragons though...they aren't supposed to be easy to take down. I'd maybe recommend going for the usual weak spots: the eyes, joints, and maybe wings?

Well, I suppose if we wanted to, there's bound to be a mechanical dragon somewhere around this place, isn't there? They have machines for everything else, so why not?

[She's not actually proposing a real mechanical dragon hunt, but now she's wondering if one truly exists. Would it look silly or terrifying?]

I have to admit, I've never fired an arrow into someone's eye before...it never really occurred to me until you mentioned it.

[It might be a usual weak spot, but look at her. She's pure, she's never considered such a brutal thing before.]

Maybe. Somehow it's hard to imagine their being a dragon exactly like Festus.

[After all, Festus was more magic-machine and less...alien-space-tech machine.]

Neither have I. I'm more of a sword person. I've been in combat against other monsters and creatures before though so that's just what I was going off of...some were probably as big as a dragon might be.

[To be fair, there are plenty of pure souls -- Frank and Hazel -- he could think of that didn't look like they could be brutal, but could kick some serious butt when the need arose]

[Those are just minor details! This is the most animated she's felt while talking about dragons, since those are terrifying. It's nice to think about them in a more teasing way.]

Festus? So this mechanical dragon had a name? What does a mechanical dragon do, then?

[Is it as terrifying as a real one? Her eyes light up at the mention of swords, something...something she knows she shouldn't be so happy to talk about, but.]

Ah, so we're alike in that manner, at least. To be honest, I'm relieved to hear someone talk about swords in a way that doesn't sound like they went out of style thousands of years ago. What kind of beasts were you fighting, then, if you don't mind me asking? I've...ah, I'm only a soldier, I'm afraid.

[Meaning she only shoots humans. And Morphs, but...that's a longer story.]

[He feels like Leo would be offended by that.] Of course he does. I'm not sure what he does aside from help heroes with their quest. He's a...friend of a friend I guess.

[That was the easiest way to put it. But talk of weapons is a little more Jason's speed.]

People just don't appreciate the classics any more I guess. But, we had a good reason to stay with Imperial Gold. It can be forged into anything, but arrows, swords and daggers can actually be reused and the material is a precious resource. We used them to fight different monsters, giants, titans, and things like hat. I'm not sure if I have enough time to explain all the different types, though some monsters are more common than others.

[He tilts his head.]

Funny enough I was something of a soldier too---part of a different legion than this one anyway.

A friend of a friend...I think I understand, then. The dragon I knew—her name was Ninian—was very friendly as well. Dragons...

[Her expression falters a little. Ah...]

It's all very complicated.

[If a friend turns out to be a dragon, goes crazy, gets killed, and more dragons might be on the way, are dragons good or bad? Does it matter when it comes to protecting the things you care about?

But she attempts to put her best smile back!]

Giants, titans, and monsters...oh, my, that's more than I've ever fought! See, we've had to deal with Morphs...they're very humanlike, but they're made of, um, what was it...quintessence? They have soulless golden eyes, and violet hair. They're strong.

[But she's stronger. That's implied.]

Oh? Were you? I've only been serving Lord Eliwood for less than a year. [But this is exciting.] What kind of soldier are you?

Sounds like it. I'm used to complicated though...maybe more than the average person even.

[He nods as if that's completely understandable.]

I was Praetor of the Twelfth Legion Fulminata back home and had served for several years, but I stepped down recently to pursue other interests.

[He felt better now that he wasn't a soldier, but there was no denying his past. She may notice that he's barely 16 and serving for 'several' years probably implies he's been doing it even as a child.]

I feel like I can relate a little. I don't mean to put myself in your shoes, of course, I hardly know you! I've wondered if my being a soldier has anything to do with why I'm here. It might be a bit silly, but there has to be a reason, right?

[She can tell he's around her age. She also fights alongside a girl even younger than her, however, so she can't say it's too unusual. Lots of kids in the armies these days.]

A praetor...that's an impressive rank, isn't it? I'm only a sniper, a common foot soldier, but that's fine with me as long as I can serve my country. My father is the village magistrate, but when you're out in the country, it's not a title that means much.

I've wondered the same considering the last group I was in was called a Legion and now here I am again, part of another one. Full circle I guess.

[He figured his reason was just because he was a demigod and that was sort of part of his whole 'destiny' was being a hero. Normally he'd have a prophecy first, but it seemed that wasn't necessarily the case here.]

Praetors are one of the highest ranks you could receive in the Legion back home. But we've all got to start somewhere. Even those of us who are made praetor started out as Probatio like everyone else. You had to prove yourself and earn the title.

Anyway, like I said, I was a praetor. I don't have that title any more. I'm not sure if any of our titles really mean much here if it's any consolation.

Part of my group contains a small legion of sorts, too...it wasn't one I was a part of, but I've heard it mentioned around camp a few times.

[She still sometimes wonders why they picked her and not someone much more skilled or strong...but it's best that they pick her, too, so the others can fight on without her if something happens. It's a horrible thought, but her situation is serious enough that it's a little comforting.]

I can't say if I agree with that. Even if it holds no political meaning here, it says a lot about your character, doesn't it? I feel like, in that way, titles might be a little important. I feel like I know you a bit better hearing you were one, I mean. That must've taken so much training...you must be very dedicated.

You're the first who's really said anything about it. But I guess I haven't exactly gone around broadcasting it either. I don't want people to think I'm boasting or trying to put myself in charge.

[While it was true people had naturally done that back home and Jason HAD the qualities of a leader -- it wasn't something he actively sought. And here, well, there was already an established organization that had existed for a long time before he'd gotten here and had a lot more going on than he probably even really understood. For all his experiences he was still technically new to the superhero game.]

It's more or less what I was born in to if you want to really get down to it. But I guess that would have only gotten me so far, so I see your point. I still don't think you should sell yourself short or anything. It sounds like you have a lot to do back home as well.

I haven't gotten that impression of you! I really appreciate knowing, it makes me feel more comfortable in a way. I apologize if that's too forward, but it's true.

[The other children here have led such different lives than her. It's just nice to know that she's not the only one their age who's fought in a different kind of battlefield before. It might have been hard for him, but it's a comfort nonetheless to meet someone who might understand.]

It's...you're right, I really shouldn't. I know I'm a good shot and people can depend on me, but our group is comprised of assassins, lords and ladies, knights, wanderers, dark mages, pirates. After a while, I think I've started to feel like the 'normal one.'

[He chuckles] Didn't this start because we were discussing how to fight dragons? I'm not sure you can really qualify as normal, but I get what you're saying in a sense. It sounds like you have a lot of people to work with that might have amazing skills or abilities that set them apart. I can't speak for them, of course, but I know coming from my own camp sometimes people like that want to just be considered normal too.

Ah...you're right, you know. It's not very nice of me to call them abnormal behind their backs. I hope you won't tell them if you see them.

[She's teasing! She's teasing, because he has a point, and she's been busted.]

Hm...I'd really like to tell you why I'm fighting dragons, but it's a long story. Do you think we could speak again sometime?

Sure! I wouldn't mind that at all.

[He's enjoyed the conversation.]

And if you want and more tips for other beasts or practice with older weapons let me know. I'm in the gym sometimes with my sword.

I'll be looking forward to it, then.

[She's already looking forward to it. He sounds like the most normal person here given her standards.]

But if I'm going to be looking for you, it might help if I had your name. As I mentioned before, I'm Rebecca. It's nice to meet you.

[He laughs, embarrassed a little and flushing because how did he forget to mention his name.]

Sorry. I guess I should have led with that. I'm Jason. It's good to meet you too.

Um, no. Definitely no on the dragons. But, uh...

How hard could it be?

Oh...that's a good question. Dragons and humans have warred in our world before, back during the Scouring, but I think that might have been man's fault...still, they were driven away, but it also changed the world forever. They must be ferocious!

When you say changed the world forever...

Without the dragons, man's rule spread...that's how we came to have the eight countries we have today. I'm from the Lycian League myself. It's a little sad, maybe, but it happened so long ago I don't oft think about it.

Yeah, uh, our history back home is pretty dragon-free, let me tell you. But I mean, you guys must be pretty tough to have come out swinging like that against actual dragons.

Like, damn.

I believe that's because the eight heroes of the Scouring had the Legendary Weapons. They're weapons that are sealed away because of their tremendous power, and they choose their own wielder.

But I think humans are strong! I wouldn't ever want to face a dragon on my own, but working together...there's no way we can't win, that's what I want to believe.

[Is Gwen really the sort of person to ruin that kind of innocence?

She can't.]

People... yeah. We're really something, aren't we.

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➷ Rise to the Challenge [Video]

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