The Church of Hyperion Pt.1 (EOD2 RP for Hyperion & Bodhi)
Oct 4, 2017 16:42:40 GMT -5
Mongo the Destroyer, Dave D-Flipz, and 2 more like this
Post by Hyperion on Oct 4, 2017 16:42:40 GMT -5
(OOC: sorry for the huge RP, this counts as both Hyperion & Bodhi’s RP for EOD2. It’s a bit longer to help shed a little light on the characters to the new arrivals. Enjoy!)
*Days have passed since the opening night of the End of Days tournament began. In under one week, peoples hearts have grown full of love, respect and joy for their favourite athletes across the XHF Network. From the legends, retaining their legacy and loyal fan base through sheer and utter grace in the ring, to newcomers impressing and wowing the audience, one thing is for certain: the XHF Network is making huge waves across the globe. What crossed every participant's mind before was ‘how will I win my match’, ‘how will I secure my victory’. Now, aspirations and sights have been raised to a higher level- ‘How will I secure my name in the history books!’*
“You need to work more on your upper aggression, you cannot focus your entire attack into just lower strikes.”
“...yeah but….*huff*....I only need to land... *wheeze*.....one good kick and then it’s…..*puff*....lights out…..”
“Lights out? Interesting phrase, I shall use that one myself.”
“Go ahead…..bud……*huff*......”
*We find our unlikely pairing standing in the center of their homemade ring. What was once a fully-operational gas station/ garage has now become something more...special. From ‘Hoskins Stop-Over’, a family-run business selling groceries, snacks, car supplies and travel essentials, has now become the roots of something great. Bodhi has relinquished her future in the family trade for something greater; the ever growing hunger for success. Reclaiming her Pop’s old stop ‘n’ shop and converting it into studio for their art, Hyperion and Bodhi have been feeding their hunger, and growing a name for themselves quickly. *
“Focus on my eyes; if your opponent is looking elsewhere, then take advantage. If I am looking straight at you, you have nowhere to go. Illusion and distraction will be your key strength, allowing you to achieve close contact for the killing blow.”
*Hyperion stands tall in the center of the ring, brandishing two padded bags. Bodhi, across from him, is keeled over, struggling to breath, sweat pouring from her body. Her usual, eccentric appearance has been temporarily replaced with a more demure, athletic style- sports bra, boxing shorts and sneakers. Without her accessories and flair, she almost looks naked.*
“I can’t…..*wheeze*.....I can’t...breathe….”
“Nonsense. We are only just warming up!”
“It’s been...hours!”
“Yes, but you must build stamina if you wish to win your battle. We cannot hope that this will be a simple walk through the vines.”
“The….what….? No, dude….I am….pooped….”
*Bodhi walks to the corner of the ring, and scoops up a water bottle. She pops the lid and guzzles a mouthful or two. The former storefront has become their Dojo, from homemade ring, to multiple exercise machines strewn around them, to a mini locker area. What had evolved into a storage warehouse for their connecting garage has now become the birthplace of legends. Only they do not know it yet.*
“Can we take a break? Just for a while?”
“Bodhi, my adviser, my muse, my consort. I would wish nothing for you other than great success in the face of adversity, however this is not going to be a simple street duel. You will not be able to simply brandish a weapon against your foe to secure your success. This will require you to be more skilled in the art-form of aggression and brutality, to dominate your opponent with cunning and bravado. And to secure your success and conquer your foe underfoot.”
“You….what?......Huh?”
“You need to kick that woman into her face. Very hard.”
“That’s what I'VE been saying!”
“Then, we shall practice some more.”
“No. No! I need a break, this is too much too fast.”
“I see….perhaps then we should contact the Emperor of Japan and alert them to your skin suddenly turning yellow in the face of a challenger. Perhaps it is not too late for them to find a suitable contender to replace you….”
*Bodhi tosses her water bottle at Hyperion, who nonchalantly lets it bounce against his chest and fall to the floor. A slight smirk crosses his face.*
“You giant ass-hat. Guess I know how it feels now…”
“Motivation is not a punishment, Bodhi. I simply wish to encourage you to drive yourself forward, and to be prepared to win any war which looms on your horizon.”
“Motivation. War. Got it.”
“Look…you are not an athlete, nor have you trained for combat like this before. I have viewed your battle memories, watched you decimate foes and opponents like childsplay. But what differs from then to now is ‘rules’....”
“Oh here we go….”
“You see, these ‘rules’ are what force us to train in the confines of a ring. These ‘rules’ are what allows us to achieve great success against our foes. These ‘rules’ grant us some limitations to victory, but allow us to discover the grey areas and revel in them.”
“The rules talk. Got it. I didn’t know they had sarcasm in Ancient Greece.”
*Hyperion grunts at Bodhi.*
“Don’t get sassy with me over the ‘rules’ there fella.”
“These foolish ‘rules’ have hindered my true self. But I have found success within them. And so shall you.”
“Rules, rules, rules. Any other man would just accept you cannot beat a person to death in the ring but OH NO, Mr. I-Wanna-Brutally-Kill-Everyone-With-My-Bare-Hands is unhappy.”
“Well they are foolish. No man should have to beat his opponent by holding him on a mat, or grabbing a case full of air….I should be taking their life with my bare hands!!”
“Least you got the briefcase. Quit your whining.”
“....and now they have me battling against some man-rooster.”
“I think he's a chicken.”
“Whatever he is, I will use that fowl’s bones to pick his meat from my teeth once I am done!”
“You pluck him and I’ll roast him. I know a good recipe from Mama. Years old, real tasty stuff.”
“Perhaps I’ll just pop his neck from his shoulders. It should be a hasty victory for me, and a delicious post-battle meal for both.”
“Sure. Just go in there and choke the chicken!”
“Indeed. I shall choke that chicken until he turns red.”
“Sure. You good at choking the chicken? You do it often?”
“Of course. As a young boy, I tended the land with my family. I would often choke the chicken. Sometimes several times per day.”
“Oh really! How many times per day do you choke the chicken?”
“Hmm, that is hard to recall. Depends on the family that needs feeding. Perhaps I would choke several chickens in a day.”
“Wow, several. Are they always yours or other people's?”
“Mostly ours. We owned the land, and ruled the people. We were their Gods. I would choke anyone's chicken without regard. Should a man defy me, I would look him in the eyes while I strangled his chicken. His cries would never cease my grip.”
*At this point, Bodhi cannot hold in her laughter. She loses her shit., laughing hysterically.*
“What is so amusing?”
“Hahahaaaa!!”
“Bodhi? What is the meaning of this!”
“Sorry man, I just can't stop picturing you...'choking' all those dudes 'chickens'. Hahaha!”
“Hmm, what a privileged time you were born in. Not knowing the feeling of a chicken's neck between your palms.”
“Palms? You used two hands? Wow, impressive.”
“Of course. I would be sure to maintain a tight yet gently grip.”
*Bodhi is grinning from ear to ear, foolishly.*
“You’re a real cutie pie, Hype. Real silly.”
“Hrmph, I do not understand these ‘modern’ females. But alas, we should continue.”
“Yeah, I guess. But can’t I just go in there guns blazing and take this bitch out? Why all the dramatics and theater of it?”
“Yes you can. And that is the very tactic I wish for you to use. However, I could not face to see you receive injury or defeat due to inferior preparation. Should you receive fatal wounding, I would not know what to do.”
“Aww, Hypy! That’s so sweet of you!”
“Sweet? Perhaps. It would be less 'sweet' in your absence. I do not know how to handle booking matches, organizing my schedule, handling my income….”
“You. Absolute. Dick. You mean you need me to continue working for you as manager….”
“Of course. Did I use my words incorrectly?”
*Bodhi snaps the top rope, making a loud cracking sound.*
“I think I am ready to hit you again now.”
“Excellent! Focus on my eyes, and your peripheral vision will guide your defenses. Use your attributes, concentrate on your breathing, and look for the opening.”
*Bodhi jumps into fighting stance, ready to strike. Hyperion stands over her by a good foot plus change, so he bends forward to provide proper bag heights.*
“Attack and retreat, attack and retreat. Spear and shield, strike then defend.”
“Got it. Like the movie ‘300’, spear and shield. In and out, just how the Spartans did it.”
“You are familiar with the battle techniques of Sparta?”
“I am familiar with King Leonidas and his massive bulge, if that's what you mean.”
“No...that is not what I meant.”
“We got this though, no doubt.”
*Bodhi strikes the pad with a left, then crosses with a right, and finally a high shin kick. She stances up again, and attacks with another combo. She works her arms a bit, then performs a spinning heel kick.*
“Excellent Bodhi, excellent. Your legs will be your spears, and your fists your hammers. Wear your opponent down with a rain of blows, then strike them into the heart with a devastating thrust of your boot!”
“Yeah! Kuroi won't know what hit her.”
“‘Kuroi’...what an unusual name.”
“Yeah, its Japanese for ‘dick breath’.”
“Is that so?”
“I dunno, maybe? It's stupid anyway. ‘Kuroi’. Screw that.”
“Yes, screw that. ‘Kuroi’. What a foul sounding name.”
“And if you saw her, you might say something worse.”
*As the duo continues to train (OOC: and absolutely roast the GM too; two birds with one stone, #LOLsapalooza), Bodhi becomes more confident with her strikes, her form straightens up, and her attacks land with more impact.*
“Yes Bodhi, feel the fire growing inside of you. Let it burn, and set the world alight!”
*Bodhi continues to attack harder, getting into a momentum. She attacks smoothly, landing nice combos on the bags. Hyperion pushes forward against her, pressing her back.*
“Fight back your aggressor. If they approach you, adjust and attack. Burn and spread, burn and spread.”
*Bodhi is breathing hard now, attacking the bags. Her face is reddening, and she is showing frustration.*
“Do not falter. To cease is for the weak! Do not retire!”
*Still pressing forward, Hyperion slowly progresses Bodhi towards a corner. Her attacks are slowing in her arms, and Hyperion's shouts of encouragement are simply infuriating her more. In a final act of exhausting/ anger, she steps back a foot, then leaps forward with a shockingly quick super-kick. She connects with the bags, but shoots between his hands and lands her kick on Hyperion's chin. The rapid twist of his neck and impact of the power-kick sends Hyperion tumbling backwards, falling onto the mat. Bodhi jumps for joy with her execution.*
“BANZAI! Wow, that was awesome! Hey, maybe that can be my super move! Whaddya think!....Hypy?....”
*Hyperion is unconscious on the mat.*
“Uh-oh….that's not good. I knocked him ‘da fuhh kowt’! Wait...I KO’d Hyperion. I knocked out Hyperion! Woo, go me! Undefeated no more, chump!”
*Bodhi does another little excited jump and mini-dance, while we fade to black.*
*We cut to another room, this one being Hyperion’s throne room in the read of the station. He has converted the back office area into a larger open space room, complete with sofa, matching chairs, a sink/ cooking area and fridge. But most essential to this room, he has incorporated a throne, made from brass, gold and steel plating. A crude but apt addition to the God’s basking area, where he contemplates the reprieve of justice, or condemns his opponents to a painful ending. He is sat upon his throne chair, raised slightly upon a platform. No King should look up to his subjects, but down on them from above. He sits there, topless and glistening from his training. Bodhi stands beside him, pleading for forgiveness.*
“Sorry sorry sorry!! I’m so sorry!”
“Bodhi, my paramount, I need not your words of apology. Your training was a success, and your abilities shined brightly. A simple error in motion is no fault of anyone's.”
“Yeah, but I kicked you square in the head, man! You went out cold!”
“Nonsense, I was simply...laying down, to catch my breath…”
“No dude, I KO’d you. Out cold.”
“Do not be so foolish, you cannot render a God unconscious.”
“Well, I just did, Bub. So like it or not, I knocked you out. And I’m sorry, but not sorry too.”
“Hrmph….”
*Bodhi walks to the fridge, opens the door and pulls out a bottle of Jack Daniels. She walks back to Hyperion, and hands him the cold bottle.*
“Here, this will help.”
“...thank you…”
*Hyperion pops the cap, chugs a good two or three swigs from the bottle, and holds the cold glass against his jaw, now slightly redder since it was home to a well placed super-kick.*
“What did you think of that move though? Like, was it good? Should I use that again?”
“Bodhi, whomever is on the receiving end of that kick will be seeing the stars and angels above.”
“So…..that's a yes……?”
“Yes.”
“Awesome! That can be my super move then! I’ll finish off the SSS roster one by one, and kick back to relax mode when I am done.”
“With a little more training, and some more focus, you will make a fine adversary. Why not try your hand at war here in the town of Bethesda?”
“Nah, AWF can be your game. I’ll build you up here as best I can, but I have my sights set on the Sakura-Shoujo Stampede now. They are given me the royal treatment there, my own suite and everything! You’ll have to visit with me next time.”
“You wish to escort me onto one of your monstrous flying caravans? You have lost your mind.”
“Come on, airplanes ain’t so scary. You’ll be fineeeee.”
“Do not goad me. I have built my legs to be as strong as logs, and hold me firm on the ground. What good will they serve me high in the air?”
“Dude, its not a place to fight. It’s a place to relax, sit back, watch a movie or put a hot towel across your face. Plus, Japan is nuts. You would be shocked to see it!”
“I shall await your paintings as inspiration to what lies beyond.”
“Dude, they are called photographs. And fine. Suit yourself.”
“But do bring me back one gift from there.”
“OK, you got it. What would you like?”
“The only thing a King would desire- gold.”
“Ah! Gotcha, I’ll bring it home with me soon enough. They got me fighting some crazy tournament at the end of the month. I play my cards right, I might walk out of there with a shiny new belt!”
“That would be most enjoyable. You have done well by me, and I will repay by passing my gift to you- the gift of knowledge. My prowess as a warrior has won me countless battles in Heaven and Hell-”
“Stop right there, I don’t need to hear the spiel again. ‘You fought in the sky and under the world, fought demons and Gods alike.’ I get it dude, you are a God. No need to drill it home.”
“Yes, well….just remember it.”
“We kinda can't forget, it's ALL you talk about.”
“Hrmph!”
"You grunt a lot."
*Bodhi takes the bottle from him, takes a swig and passes it back.*
“So, you’ve barely mentioned anything about Sunday...how are you feeling after the match?”
“Sunday….the unlucky for some cage battle. To be open with my words, I feel....good.”
“Good? Not nervous or anxious or uneasy? After Mr. Ziko announcing that there is another briefcase match, I was sure you might be...”
“Worried? Ha, amusing. But no. Yet again I walked away the victor, and yet again I lay waste to opponents in my wake. Lancer. Moxley. That strange smelling fellow Harry. None stood up to my might.”
“Yuki did. She was crazy brave.”
“Indeed. Of all my competition, she proved to be the bravest. The most fearless. And I commend her for her attempt.”
“What about Justice?”
“Oh yes. The young warrior. He showed the world yet again that he is a formidable foe, even for one so under aged and under-experienced in battle. But alas, I cannot say a wrong word, he fought valiantly, and showed heart. I hope to cross paths with him again in battle, he has proven to be a good test of my fortitude, and easy prey too.”
“Not too easy, he got a case too. So, y’know, watch out this weekend. With yours possibly up for grabs….you never know what’s gonna happen….”
“Hrmph. I fear not the consequences. These ‘cases’ may be filled with air, for what matters most is success in the arena against my opponents.”
“Well we are doing good Hypy, we are climbing up the ranks slowly but surely. How about that wacko Minos. I saw you and him talking trash, what was that about?”
“Unfortunately, that man is an imposter. The real Minos was a cruel, yet powerful King. He earned his rightful place in the Underworld, banished for his cruelty. However the man I opposed was….disappointing. Nothing more than a fraud, plagiarizing the name of a powerful legend. Rhadamantus. Aeacus. A trio of misfits and fools, taking the guise of Hades’ servants. The true Judges of the Underworld would destroy these mortals in a click of their fingers.”
“So no love lost there then.”
*The duo are interrupted by Billy, a late-teens local who has taken up a part-time job learning the ropes of mechanics, with some vehicle repair and maintenance. As apprentice to Hyperion, he has learned a number of valuable things, the most important being to never burst into his throne room unannounced.*
“Ms. Bodhi, Mr. Hyperion. My apologies to intrude-”
“Billy! What have we spoken about!”
“M-my apologies, Ms. Bodhi, b-but it is important-”
“If Hypy gets a hold of you now….”
“Please, forgive me. But, you need to see this. Please come!”
*Billy runs back out of the room, leaving a very confused Bodhi trailing behind him. Hyperion takes another few swigs from the bottle, relishing his painkiller. Bodhi steps outside the room, but returns quickly.*
“Uh, Hype...you’d better come see this.”
“What distraction do we have to consider now….Bodhi?”
*Bodhi has already left the room again. Hyperion breathes out a sigh of unrest, and stands up. He swigs again from his bottle, and makes his way to the doorway. His long matted hair falls long against his chest, covering some of his face. He guzzles some more from his drink before exiting the room.*
“What is the meaning of this-...”
*Standing ahead of Hyperion is the ring from earlier, the room where him and Bodhi have been training. Only, in their short absence, some visitors have arrived. A group of people stand before him, all garbed in some kind of hooded dark cloaks.*
“What is this? Billy, explain.”
“I-im sorry Mr. Hyperion, they just arrived in a group and started making their way inside. I tried to stop ‘em, but there’s so many! They were looking for you!”
“It’s OK Billy, you just….run home now.”
“OK Ms. Bodhi. I fixed up the red bike, the chain was loose so I had to switch it up, and I think the ignition cable is loose-”
“Don’t worry about that now. You just...head home now, we’ll call you tomorrow. OK?”
“Y-es yes Ms. Bodhi. Are these folks...do you know these people?”
*Bodhi doesn't answer, as she is transfixed on the gathering group. Under their long black hooded robes, their faces are barely exposed, and their outfits, body shapes, distinguishable markings- all are concealed. All very intimidating. One of the bigger strangers spots the duo by the doorway, and takes a step towards them.*
“It is you! It really is….YOU! Our Lord, our Savior. We have come to seek your guidance, and bow down to your might, O’Great Lord Hyperion.”
“Er, what’s this now?”
*Another stranger speaks up.*
“Great Lord Hyperion, you have blessed us with your presence. Oh how grateful we are to be so fortunate!”
“What is the meaning of this, explain yourselves!”
*The first man turns to the rest, and motions for them to move to the ring. They walk slowly to the ring, and begin to toss in flowers, leaves, adornments to cover the ring. Some pull out candles from under their robe, and light them. After a few moments, the ring is covered and candles surround the outside of the mat.*
“O’ Great Lord Hyperion, we have been devout and loyal followers of your struggles in the Sky, we have worshiped and praised you since our early lives. The Prophecy spoke of a rebirth, but how blessed we are to have such a visage, a monument to the Great King Hyperion before us.”
“Prophecy? For once we might not be the craziest in the room…”
“You see, we have searched and yearned for your arrival, we have kept the faith alive and the belief has been strong. We have been patient, following the words of the Prophecy, awaiting the rise of our Lord and Savior. And you have been….reborn!”
“What Prophecy do you speak of?”
*In an unanimous chant, all the worshipers hum the following saying together;*
*Nothing is said from anybody, and a moment of awe surpasses the duo.*
“Whoa….”
“I….I do not understand….”
“You really ARE a God. There is a Prophecy and everything….”
“Well yes, but this Prophecy...is new to me….”
“How much acid did I make that Steam with! I brought a dude back to life from aeons ago. I am officially the best damn chemist ever!”
“Your ‘drugs’ are merely a temporary high. My presence is constant. But this prophecy….”
“We are your divine followers, your worshipers, your fore-bearers. We shall obey your word, and follow as instructed. Impart your wisdom and your power to us, so that we may one day stand at the front lines of Olympus.”
“These people want to follow you? To Olympus?”
“Olympus was the home to the Olympians, the would-be vanquishers of the Titans. Our children. Our flesh, blood and love. It is the gateway between Earth and the Sky, the gateway to Heaven.”
“Wait...Heaven is real??”
“Not like you imagine it. Our Heaven is….different. Those who defend it, live forever. Which is what I believe these people are seeking…”
*The lighting in the room is suddenly cut off, so that the only source of brightness is the ring in the center, laden with candles. The followers beckon Hyperion to enter the ring. Bodhi gives him a quick nudge.*
“Go ahead dude, acknowledge your people!”
*Hyperion looks uneasy at first, but soon gathers his confidence. As he walks to the ring, the gathering of folks separate, to allow him a walkway. He enters the ring, and looks around the room. He raises his hands to hush the crowd….*
“Friends, I know not of this Prophecy you speak from, but my return is true. I do not yet have the power or the might you expect of a Titan, but my Will is growing. I may not command an army as of yet, but alone I lead a path of destruction. To grace me with your presence and worship….it honors me. With time, we can unite as one, and recreate our own Elysium. Unexpected, your arrival has taken me by surprise. In this modern world of technology, advanced motives and skewed beliefs, it is easy to lose yourself in the stream of noise. However, should you follow my guidance and believe my words as truth, we may one day rebuild a great nation upon the slopes of Mount Othrys.”
*A general cheers emancipates from the crowd, with murmurs and babbling to follow. Bodhi slowly walks through the crowd, who separate to create a walkway for her too. In her arms she is brandishing a shiny, golden trident, much more exotic and expensive looking than the previous one Hyperion carried. She holds it up high for Hyperion to grab from her.*
“I was gonna gift this to you when you win the End of Days, but I guess now is probably a better time!”
*Hyperion reaches down and accepts the trident, a much more Godly looking variant than before. He admires his new gift momentarily, before raising it high above his head. A cheer bursts from the crowd. He looks around the room, for once seemingly struggling to find his words.*
“Denizens of faith...today will mark a new time in history...the beginning...of the End! I open my arms...and welcome you….to the Church, of Hyperion!!”
*Another wild cheer, but longer and more ecstatic. We fade out on the scene of these worshipers reveling in the presence of their King, the Godly warrior of Light- HYPERION!!*
*Days have passed since the opening night of the End of Days tournament began. In under one week, peoples hearts have grown full of love, respect and joy for their favourite athletes across the XHF Network. From the legends, retaining their legacy and loyal fan base through sheer and utter grace in the ring, to newcomers impressing and wowing the audience, one thing is for certain: the XHF Network is making huge waves across the globe. What crossed every participant's mind before was ‘how will I win my match’, ‘how will I secure my victory’. Now, aspirations and sights have been raised to a higher level- ‘How will I secure my name in the history books!’*
“You need to work more on your upper aggression, you cannot focus your entire attack into just lower strikes.”
“...yeah but….*huff*....I only need to land... *wheeze*.....one good kick and then it’s…..*puff*....lights out…..”
“Lights out? Interesting phrase, I shall use that one myself.”
“Go ahead…..bud……*huff*......”
*We find our unlikely pairing standing in the center of their homemade ring. What was once a fully-operational gas station/ garage has now become something more...special. From ‘Hoskins Stop-Over’, a family-run business selling groceries, snacks, car supplies and travel essentials, has now become the roots of something great. Bodhi has relinquished her future in the family trade for something greater; the ever growing hunger for success. Reclaiming her Pop’s old stop ‘n’ shop and converting it into studio for their art, Hyperion and Bodhi have been feeding their hunger, and growing a name for themselves quickly. *
“Focus on my eyes; if your opponent is looking elsewhere, then take advantage. If I am looking straight at you, you have nowhere to go. Illusion and distraction will be your key strength, allowing you to achieve close contact for the killing blow.”
*Hyperion stands tall in the center of the ring, brandishing two padded bags. Bodhi, across from him, is keeled over, struggling to breath, sweat pouring from her body. Her usual, eccentric appearance has been temporarily replaced with a more demure, athletic style- sports bra, boxing shorts and sneakers. Without her accessories and flair, she almost looks naked.*
“I can’t…..*wheeze*.....I can’t...breathe….”
“Nonsense. We are only just warming up!”
“It’s been...hours!”
“Yes, but you must build stamina if you wish to win your battle. We cannot hope that this will be a simple walk through the vines.”
“The….what….? No, dude….I am….pooped….”
*Bodhi walks to the corner of the ring, and scoops up a water bottle. She pops the lid and guzzles a mouthful or two. The former storefront has become their Dojo, from homemade ring, to multiple exercise machines strewn around them, to a mini locker area. What had evolved into a storage warehouse for their connecting garage has now become the birthplace of legends. Only they do not know it yet.*
“Can we take a break? Just for a while?”
“Bodhi, my adviser, my muse, my consort. I would wish nothing for you other than great success in the face of adversity, however this is not going to be a simple street duel. You will not be able to simply brandish a weapon against your foe to secure your success. This will require you to be more skilled in the art-form of aggression and brutality, to dominate your opponent with cunning and bravado. And to secure your success and conquer your foe underfoot.”
“You….what?......Huh?”
“You need to kick that woman into her face. Very hard.”
“That’s what I'VE been saying!”
“Then, we shall practice some more.”
“No. No! I need a break, this is too much too fast.”
“I see….perhaps then we should contact the Emperor of Japan and alert them to your skin suddenly turning yellow in the face of a challenger. Perhaps it is not too late for them to find a suitable contender to replace you….”
*Bodhi tosses her water bottle at Hyperion, who nonchalantly lets it bounce against his chest and fall to the floor. A slight smirk crosses his face.*
“You giant ass-hat. Guess I know how it feels now…”
“Motivation is not a punishment, Bodhi. I simply wish to encourage you to drive yourself forward, and to be prepared to win any war which looms on your horizon.”
“Motivation. War. Got it.”
“Look…you are not an athlete, nor have you trained for combat like this before. I have viewed your battle memories, watched you decimate foes and opponents like childsplay. But what differs from then to now is ‘rules’....”
“Oh here we go….”
“You see, these ‘rules’ are what force us to train in the confines of a ring. These ‘rules’ are what allows us to achieve great success against our foes. These ‘rules’ grant us some limitations to victory, but allow us to discover the grey areas and revel in them.”
“The rules talk. Got it. I didn’t know they had sarcasm in Ancient Greece.”
*Hyperion grunts at Bodhi.*
“Don’t get sassy with me over the ‘rules’ there fella.”
“These foolish ‘rules’ have hindered my true self. But I have found success within them. And so shall you.”
“Rules, rules, rules. Any other man would just accept you cannot beat a person to death in the ring but OH NO, Mr. I-Wanna-Brutally-Kill-Everyone-With-My-Bare-Hands is unhappy.”
“Well they are foolish. No man should have to beat his opponent by holding him on a mat, or grabbing a case full of air….I should be taking their life with my bare hands!!”
“Least you got the briefcase. Quit your whining.”
“....and now they have me battling against some man-rooster.”
“I think he's a chicken.”
“Whatever he is, I will use that fowl’s bones to pick his meat from my teeth once I am done!”
“You pluck him and I’ll roast him. I know a good recipe from Mama. Years old, real tasty stuff.”
“Perhaps I’ll just pop his neck from his shoulders. It should be a hasty victory for me, and a delicious post-battle meal for both.”
“Sure. Just go in there and choke the chicken!”
“Indeed. I shall choke that chicken until he turns red.”
“Sure. You good at choking the chicken? You do it often?”
“Of course. As a young boy, I tended the land with my family. I would often choke the chicken. Sometimes several times per day.”
“Oh really! How many times per day do you choke the chicken?”
“Hmm, that is hard to recall. Depends on the family that needs feeding. Perhaps I would choke several chickens in a day.”
“Wow, several. Are they always yours or other people's?”
“Mostly ours. We owned the land, and ruled the people. We were their Gods. I would choke anyone's chicken without regard. Should a man defy me, I would look him in the eyes while I strangled his chicken. His cries would never cease my grip.”
*At this point, Bodhi cannot hold in her laughter. She loses her shit., laughing hysterically.*
“What is so amusing?”
“Hahahaaaa!!”
“Bodhi? What is the meaning of this!”
“Sorry man, I just can't stop picturing you...'choking' all those dudes 'chickens'. Hahaha!”
“Hmm, what a privileged time you were born in. Not knowing the feeling of a chicken's neck between your palms.”
“Palms? You used two hands? Wow, impressive.”
“Of course. I would be sure to maintain a tight yet gently grip.”
*Bodhi is grinning from ear to ear, foolishly.*
“You’re a real cutie pie, Hype. Real silly.”
“Hrmph, I do not understand these ‘modern’ females. But alas, we should continue.”
“Yeah, I guess. But can’t I just go in there guns blazing and take this bitch out? Why all the dramatics and theater of it?”
“Yes you can. And that is the very tactic I wish for you to use. However, I could not face to see you receive injury or defeat due to inferior preparation. Should you receive fatal wounding, I would not know what to do.”
“Aww, Hypy! That’s so sweet of you!”
“Sweet? Perhaps. It would be less 'sweet' in your absence. I do not know how to handle booking matches, organizing my schedule, handling my income….”
“You. Absolute. Dick. You mean you need me to continue working for you as manager….”
“Of course. Did I use my words incorrectly?”
*Bodhi snaps the top rope, making a loud cracking sound.*
“I think I am ready to hit you again now.”
“Excellent! Focus on my eyes, and your peripheral vision will guide your defenses. Use your attributes, concentrate on your breathing, and look for the opening.”
*Bodhi jumps into fighting stance, ready to strike. Hyperion stands over her by a good foot plus change, so he bends forward to provide proper bag heights.*
“Attack and retreat, attack and retreat. Spear and shield, strike then defend.”
“Got it. Like the movie ‘300’, spear and shield. In and out, just how the Spartans did it.”
“You are familiar with the battle techniques of Sparta?”
“I am familiar with King Leonidas and his massive bulge, if that's what you mean.”
“No...that is not what I meant.”
“We got this though, no doubt.”
*Bodhi strikes the pad with a left, then crosses with a right, and finally a high shin kick. She stances up again, and attacks with another combo. She works her arms a bit, then performs a spinning heel kick.*
“Excellent Bodhi, excellent. Your legs will be your spears, and your fists your hammers. Wear your opponent down with a rain of blows, then strike them into the heart with a devastating thrust of your boot!”
“Yeah! Kuroi won't know what hit her.”
“‘Kuroi’...what an unusual name.”
“Yeah, its Japanese for ‘dick breath’.”
“Is that so?”
“I dunno, maybe? It's stupid anyway. ‘Kuroi’. Screw that.”
“Yes, screw that. ‘Kuroi’. What a foul sounding name.”
“And if you saw her, you might say something worse.”
*As the duo continues to train (OOC: and absolutely roast the GM too; two birds with one stone, #LOLsapalooza), Bodhi becomes more confident with her strikes, her form straightens up, and her attacks land with more impact.*
“Yes Bodhi, feel the fire growing inside of you. Let it burn, and set the world alight!”
*Bodhi continues to attack harder, getting into a momentum. She attacks smoothly, landing nice combos on the bags. Hyperion pushes forward against her, pressing her back.*
“Fight back your aggressor. If they approach you, adjust and attack. Burn and spread, burn and spread.”
*Bodhi is breathing hard now, attacking the bags. Her face is reddening, and she is showing frustration.*
“Do not falter. To cease is for the weak! Do not retire!”
*Still pressing forward, Hyperion slowly progresses Bodhi towards a corner. Her attacks are slowing in her arms, and Hyperion's shouts of encouragement are simply infuriating her more. In a final act of exhausting/ anger, she steps back a foot, then leaps forward with a shockingly quick super-kick. She connects with the bags, but shoots between his hands and lands her kick on Hyperion's chin. The rapid twist of his neck and impact of the power-kick sends Hyperion tumbling backwards, falling onto the mat. Bodhi jumps for joy with her execution.*
“BANZAI! Wow, that was awesome! Hey, maybe that can be my super move! Whaddya think!....Hypy?....”
*Hyperion is unconscious on the mat.*
“Uh-oh….that's not good. I knocked him ‘da fuhh kowt’! Wait...I KO’d Hyperion. I knocked out Hyperion! Woo, go me! Undefeated no more, chump!”
*Bodhi does another little excited jump and mini-dance, while we fade to black.*
------------------------------------------------------
TWO HOURS LATER
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*We cut to another room, this one being Hyperion’s throne room in the read of the station. He has converted the back office area into a larger open space room, complete with sofa, matching chairs, a sink/ cooking area and fridge. But most essential to this room, he has incorporated a throne, made from brass, gold and steel plating. A crude but apt addition to the God’s basking area, where he contemplates the reprieve of justice, or condemns his opponents to a painful ending. He is sat upon his throne chair, raised slightly upon a platform. No King should look up to his subjects, but down on them from above. He sits there, topless and glistening from his training. Bodhi stands beside him, pleading for forgiveness.*
“Sorry sorry sorry!! I’m so sorry!”
“Bodhi, my paramount, I need not your words of apology. Your training was a success, and your abilities shined brightly. A simple error in motion is no fault of anyone's.”
“Yeah, but I kicked you square in the head, man! You went out cold!”
“Nonsense, I was simply...laying down, to catch my breath…”
“No dude, I KO’d you. Out cold.”
“Do not be so foolish, you cannot render a God unconscious.”
“Well, I just did, Bub. So like it or not, I knocked you out. And I’m sorry, but not sorry too.”
“Hrmph….”
*Bodhi walks to the fridge, opens the door and pulls out a bottle of Jack Daniels. She walks back to Hyperion, and hands him the cold bottle.*
“Here, this will help.”
“...thank you…”
*Hyperion pops the cap, chugs a good two or three swigs from the bottle, and holds the cold glass against his jaw, now slightly redder since it was home to a well placed super-kick.*
“What did you think of that move though? Like, was it good? Should I use that again?”
“Bodhi, whomever is on the receiving end of that kick will be seeing the stars and angels above.”
“So…..that's a yes……?”
“Yes.”
“Awesome! That can be my super move then! I’ll finish off the SSS roster one by one, and kick back to relax mode when I am done.”
“With a little more training, and some more focus, you will make a fine adversary. Why not try your hand at war here in the town of Bethesda?”
“Nah, AWF can be your game. I’ll build you up here as best I can, but I have my sights set on the Sakura-Shoujo Stampede now. They are given me the royal treatment there, my own suite and everything! You’ll have to visit with me next time.”
“You wish to escort me onto one of your monstrous flying caravans? You have lost your mind.”
“Come on, airplanes ain’t so scary. You’ll be fineeeee.”
“Do not goad me. I have built my legs to be as strong as logs, and hold me firm on the ground. What good will they serve me high in the air?”
“Dude, its not a place to fight. It’s a place to relax, sit back, watch a movie or put a hot towel across your face. Plus, Japan is nuts. You would be shocked to see it!”
“I shall await your paintings as inspiration to what lies beyond.”
“Dude, they are called photographs. And fine. Suit yourself.”
“But do bring me back one gift from there.”
“OK, you got it. What would you like?”
“The only thing a King would desire- gold.”
“Ah! Gotcha, I’ll bring it home with me soon enough. They got me fighting some crazy tournament at the end of the month. I play my cards right, I might walk out of there with a shiny new belt!”
“That would be most enjoyable. You have done well by me, and I will repay by passing my gift to you- the gift of knowledge. My prowess as a warrior has won me countless battles in Heaven and Hell-”
“Stop right there, I don’t need to hear the spiel again. ‘You fought in the sky and under the world, fought demons and Gods alike.’ I get it dude, you are a God. No need to drill it home.”
“Yes, well….just remember it.”
“We kinda can't forget, it's ALL you talk about.”
“Hrmph!”
"You grunt a lot."
*Bodhi takes the bottle from him, takes a swig and passes it back.*
“So, you’ve barely mentioned anything about Sunday...how are you feeling after the match?”
“Sunday….the unlucky for some cage battle. To be open with my words, I feel....good.”
“Good? Not nervous or anxious or uneasy? After Mr. Ziko announcing that there is another briefcase match, I was sure you might be...”
“Worried? Ha, amusing. But no. Yet again I walked away the victor, and yet again I lay waste to opponents in my wake. Lancer. Moxley. That strange smelling fellow Harry. None stood up to my might.”
“Yuki did. She was crazy brave.”
“Indeed. Of all my competition, she proved to be the bravest. The most fearless. And I commend her for her attempt.”
“What about Justice?”
“Oh yes. The young warrior. He showed the world yet again that he is a formidable foe, even for one so under aged and under-experienced in battle. But alas, I cannot say a wrong word, he fought valiantly, and showed heart. I hope to cross paths with him again in battle, he has proven to be a good test of my fortitude, and easy prey too.”
“Not too easy, he got a case too. So, y’know, watch out this weekend. With yours possibly up for grabs….you never know what’s gonna happen….”
“Hrmph. I fear not the consequences. These ‘cases’ may be filled with air, for what matters most is success in the arena against my opponents.”
“Well we are doing good Hypy, we are climbing up the ranks slowly but surely. How about that wacko Minos. I saw you and him talking trash, what was that about?”
“Unfortunately, that man is an imposter. The real Minos was a cruel, yet powerful King. He earned his rightful place in the Underworld, banished for his cruelty. However the man I opposed was….disappointing. Nothing more than a fraud, plagiarizing the name of a powerful legend. Rhadamantus. Aeacus. A trio of misfits and fools, taking the guise of Hades’ servants. The true Judges of the Underworld would destroy these mortals in a click of their fingers.”
“So no love lost there then.”
*The duo are interrupted by Billy, a late-teens local who has taken up a part-time job learning the ropes of mechanics, with some vehicle repair and maintenance. As apprentice to Hyperion, he has learned a number of valuable things, the most important being to never burst into his throne room unannounced.*
“Ms. Bodhi, Mr. Hyperion. My apologies to intrude-”
“Billy! What have we spoken about!”
“M-my apologies, Ms. Bodhi, b-but it is important-”
“If Hypy gets a hold of you now….”
“Please, forgive me. But, you need to see this. Please come!”
*Billy runs back out of the room, leaving a very confused Bodhi trailing behind him. Hyperion takes another few swigs from the bottle, relishing his painkiller. Bodhi steps outside the room, but returns quickly.*
“Uh, Hype...you’d better come see this.”
“What distraction do we have to consider now….Bodhi?”
*Bodhi has already left the room again. Hyperion breathes out a sigh of unrest, and stands up. He swigs again from his bottle, and makes his way to the doorway. His long matted hair falls long against his chest, covering some of his face. He guzzles some more from his drink before exiting the room.*
“What is the meaning of this-...”
*Standing ahead of Hyperion is the ring from earlier, the room where him and Bodhi have been training. Only, in their short absence, some visitors have arrived. A group of people stand before him, all garbed in some kind of hooded dark cloaks.*
“What is this? Billy, explain.”
“I-im sorry Mr. Hyperion, they just arrived in a group and started making their way inside. I tried to stop ‘em, but there’s so many! They were looking for you!”
“It’s OK Billy, you just….run home now.”
“OK Ms. Bodhi. I fixed up the red bike, the chain was loose so I had to switch it up, and I think the ignition cable is loose-”
“Don’t worry about that now. You just...head home now, we’ll call you tomorrow. OK?”
“Y-es yes Ms. Bodhi. Are these folks...do you know these people?”
*Bodhi doesn't answer, as she is transfixed on the gathering group. Under their long black hooded robes, their faces are barely exposed, and their outfits, body shapes, distinguishable markings- all are concealed. All very intimidating. One of the bigger strangers spots the duo by the doorway, and takes a step towards them.*
“It is you! It really is….YOU! Our Lord, our Savior. We have come to seek your guidance, and bow down to your might, O’Great Lord Hyperion.”
“Er, what’s this now?”
*Another stranger speaks up.*
“Great Lord Hyperion, you have blessed us with your presence. Oh how grateful we are to be so fortunate!”
“What is the meaning of this, explain yourselves!”
*The first man turns to the rest, and motions for them to move to the ring. They walk slowly to the ring, and begin to toss in flowers, leaves, adornments to cover the ring. Some pull out candles from under their robe, and light them. After a few moments, the ring is covered and candles surround the outside of the mat.*
“O’ Great Lord Hyperion, we have been devout and loyal followers of your struggles in the Sky, we have worshiped and praised you since our early lives. The Prophecy spoke of a rebirth, but how blessed we are to have such a visage, a monument to the Great King Hyperion before us.”
“Prophecy? For once we might not be the craziest in the room…”
“You see, we have searched and yearned for your arrival, we have kept the faith alive and the belief has been strong. We have been patient, following the words of the Prophecy, awaiting the rise of our Lord and Savior. And you have been….reborn!”
“What Prophecy do you speak of?”
*In an unanimous chant, all the worshipers hum the following saying together;*
“Thy who wander or stray from harm,
May find a home within the farm,
To till the soil and prune the Earth,
So that we may rejoice in our Rebirth.
We shall rise and raise our fist,
Demons shall tremble and flee and desist,
For HE returns to lead us with might,
The God from Below, the Hero of Light.
Bow to your King, and honor his words,
Who has soared through the ages; a golden-flecked bird,
Banish the darkness and your lives shall brighten,
For he is your God; The Heavenly Titan.”
*Nothing is said from anybody, and a moment of awe surpasses the duo.*
“Whoa….”
“I….I do not understand….”
“You really ARE a God. There is a Prophecy and everything….”
“Well yes, but this Prophecy...is new to me….”
“How much acid did I make that Steam with! I brought a dude back to life from aeons ago. I am officially the best damn chemist ever!”
“Your ‘drugs’ are merely a temporary high. My presence is constant. But this prophecy….”
“We are your divine followers, your worshipers, your fore-bearers. We shall obey your word, and follow as instructed. Impart your wisdom and your power to us, so that we may one day stand at the front lines of Olympus.”
“These people want to follow you? To Olympus?”
“Olympus was the home to the Olympians, the would-be vanquishers of the Titans. Our children. Our flesh, blood and love. It is the gateway between Earth and the Sky, the gateway to Heaven.”
“Wait...Heaven is real??”
“Not like you imagine it. Our Heaven is….different. Those who defend it, live forever. Which is what I believe these people are seeking…”
*The lighting in the room is suddenly cut off, so that the only source of brightness is the ring in the center, laden with candles. The followers beckon Hyperion to enter the ring. Bodhi gives him a quick nudge.*
“Go ahead dude, acknowledge your people!”
*Hyperion looks uneasy at first, but soon gathers his confidence. As he walks to the ring, the gathering of folks separate, to allow him a walkway. He enters the ring, and looks around the room. He raises his hands to hush the crowd….*
“Friends, I know not of this Prophecy you speak from, but my return is true. I do not yet have the power or the might you expect of a Titan, but my Will is growing. I may not command an army as of yet, but alone I lead a path of destruction. To grace me with your presence and worship….it honors me. With time, we can unite as one, and recreate our own Elysium. Unexpected, your arrival has taken me by surprise. In this modern world of technology, advanced motives and skewed beliefs, it is easy to lose yourself in the stream of noise. However, should you follow my guidance and believe my words as truth, we may one day rebuild a great nation upon the slopes of Mount Othrys.”
*A general cheers emancipates from the crowd, with murmurs and babbling to follow. Bodhi slowly walks through the crowd, who separate to create a walkway for her too. In her arms she is brandishing a shiny, golden trident, much more exotic and expensive looking than the previous one Hyperion carried. She holds it up high for Hyperion to grab from her.*
“I was gonna gift this to you when you win the End of Days, but I guess now is probably a better time!”
*Hyperion reaches down and accepts the trident, a much more Godly looking variant than before. He admires his new gift momentarily, before raising it high above his head. A cheer bursts from the crowd. He looks around the room, for once seemingly struggling to find his words.*
“Denizens of faith...today will mark a new time in history...the beginning...of the End! I open my arms...and welcome you….to the Church, of Hyperion!!”
*Another wild cheer, but longer and more ecstatic. We fade out on the scene of these worshipers reveling in the presence of their King, the Godly warrior of Light- HYPERION!!*
