The RP Cliche

[Fehrant]

Cain ran his hand up and down his long white beard, as he carefully glanced at a basic map he had been provided. The central kingdom was too far away, but the arena had to be held where their influence was weaker.

At the very edge of the map, the secret committee and all its triumphant arena members were located near the great sea, on the Ice Kingdom. The cold was hard on the old man's bones, so he sat next to big fire inside a medium sized castle. It appeared like a modest castle on the outside, but it went deep into the earth. The arena had taken place here, on one of the lowest levels. The warriors that had failed had either become rotten bodies in the cold, or were offered medical assistance. For security measures, however, the qualified ones were to depart before the ones that had lost, in case information leaked out.

It was surprising how fast the influence of the new Central Kingdom had spread across the land. Now every kingdom had a new representative placed there solely to oversee the interests of the new self-imposed kings. Few people dared oppose the new regime, since it had been the kings from various kingdoms in the first place to change how things had been up to this point. Yet, with no one to control everything in an objective manner, battles for control of the land were a rare sight no more. No intervention from the Central Kingdom took place anymore, and every kingdom was left to its own devices.

This was possible one of the most risky missions Cain had undertaken, because with only a few men and women, they were to oppose the an entire kingdom and its allies. If somehow the purpose of this group was discovered, the success rate of this mission would notably diminish.

Of course, even without the Central Kingdom finding out, complications would present on their own. Every kingdom was in turmoil at this point, and it would be easy to get caught in the middle. Matters were still trying to settle down. Nevertheless, it was evident that the new Central Kingdom had achieved what it wanted.

Cain's finger traced across the map. "Ice Kingdom... Water Kingdom... then the route would be optional. We'll have to see when he get there," he said to himself. "But these two kingdoms we'll have no choice but to go through."

A knock came on the door. "Cain," a voice came behind the door of his room. "The committee requires your presence."

The old man stood up, grabbed his staff, wrapped his cloak tightly, and opened the door. A guard greeted him, and showed him the way. A dimly light place with a round table, and shady faces presented itself. The members of the committee exchanged words in low voices with one another. When the guard announced Cain, they all hushed, and waited for the guard to close the door behind.

"Cain," started one with a deep voice. "We know of your background, and your deeds. It does not surprises us that you could arise victorious in the arena, and despite the dire circumstances in which we have summoned you, we are honor to have you take part in this mission."

"We have no reward to offer you upon the success of this mission, because you have not shown interest in the gold we offered. However, know that your name shall not be forgotten and your deeds shall not go untold."

Cain smiled gently. "Your words are too kind. However, I understand time is pressing, and we must move. What is the specific purpose for summoning my presence here today, members of the committee? Are the preparations ready?"

"Indeed," the same voice replied. "We have horses prepared, maps, weapons... anything you need will be at your disposal. Know however that once you step outside of this castle your are on your own. If asked, we will deny knowledge of ever having this conversation, or of hiring you to achieve any purpose at all. Moreover, we might even deny knowledge of ever meeting you, so please be careful. You will truly be on your own.

"As you well know, other members succeeded our arena trial. They are not, however, forced to work in groups, although this is recommended. Any way to make the mission succeed is perfectly valid, no matter what the cost is. This is exactly why we don't enforce teamplay, nor do we condone it."

"I'd recommend that you depart as soon as possible. As you properly said, there's no time to waste."

"Very well," Cain replied, and left the room.

A guard outside offered him assistance in getting anything he wanted. Cain only asked for a horse, and some supplies. He decided it might be wise also to talk to some of the other members. He went outside the castle with his horse, and waited to see if anyone was going to come out. The child wind blew, and a vast, snow covered land stretched as far as the eye could see.

"A long journey indeed," Cain said.

[GrimmJaw]

A day or so after his ruthless victory within the arena, Reishou was lounging in the room he was provided, his long white covering his pale face and sea green eyes. Though it was quite cold inside his room, the fire was not lit, nor was he wearing anything different from his tunic and cloth pants. In fact, Rei enjoyed the change of climate. He was used to the warm days in the Wood Kingdom. Rei began to day-dream, recalling the fight in the arena, and his swift victory. A loud rapping on his door awoke him from his dreams. Quickly, Rei's hand fell to the dagger at his side.

"Reishou Araisu, We must....talk."

Reishou stood up, his hand still on the hilt of his dagger. The pause in the man's voice made him hesitant to open the door. Not that he couldn't handle a sneak attack, he was just...lazy. Rei stopped about a meter away from the door. "It's open." Came Rei's stern voice. The door creaked open, on the other side, a guard. The lightly armored guard motioned to Rei, signalling that he should follow. Rei did as he was asked and he and the guard quietly walked to the inner chamber of the castle.

The two men arrived in front of a large wooden door. The guard opened the door and without hesitation Rei entered. The guard closed the door, leaving Rei in a dimly lit room. A group of people, all of them cloaked hid behind the shadow of the candles.

"Rei, your feats in the Arena have led us to believe that you could become a valuable member of this mission."

Rei, keeping his thoughts to himself simply, nodded.

"But, you have not yet requested a reward of sorts. Is there anything in particular you want?"

"At the Moment, that information is none of your concern."

Rei cast a glare of steel towards the member who'd been speaking to him.

"Leave quickly, time is of the essence. A horse is prepared for you outside, go now, make haste."

Rei nodded and left the room. He quickly found the foyer of the castle, where a guard was waiting, holding a horse by it reigns. Rei nodded and grapped the reigns and headed out side. In his periphrial vision, Rei saw an old man tending to a horse. He had no intnet to speak with him unless he was spoken to first.

[Lord Storm Bryce]

Kane sat cross legged on the hight of the ramparts of the keep. He had left all of his weapons in his room and was just relaxing and meditating. He liked the feel of the wind on his face. He had let his hair down and it blew lightly in the breeze. He was preparing for another rough day in the arena.

Just as he was drifting out of his trance to leave someone approached. He turned his head and nodded to them, not speaking just yet. He stretched and easily hopped down, bowing.

"What can I do for you?" , he asked.

The man returned the bow and spoke very frmly and to the point.

"Follow me."

Kane didnt ask any questions, he nodded again and followed. He was lead to a stone chamber with many cloaked men seated arond him. Someone spoke but it was very hard to tell exactly who it was.

"Sir Kane Bryce. We have been observing you as of late and we have come to the belief they you would be a valuble member of a special mission we are putting together. We would like you to join this misson. What do you say?"

Kane looked around and thought for a moment.

"What do I get out of this?"

"You will gain honor, respect, and allies if you should choose to accept them."

Kane thought again for a moment and nodded.

"Why not."

"Good. You begin immidiatly. We have supplies and horses waiting for you outside."

Kane bowed and left. He followed a man back to his room. He grabbed everything he htought was needed, mostly jsut his weapons and ammunition. He then followed the man out to the stables. He took a horse and left.

As he got outside the gates he saw a young warrior and an old man. Kane stopped and nodded to them, stopping and looking around. He got off his horse and acted like he was just resting a bit, analyzing everything he could about the two men.

[Stevie_boy]

Jak wrapped his furs around him more tightly. It was far too cold for his liking here. He was sitting next to the fire, yet he was still feeling chilly. He stared into the fire, watching the flames leap up and down. He could stare into the flame for hours. Fire obsessed him, in a world full of coldness, it was his only source of warmth.

He heard someone approach behind him. His hand tightened around the hilt of his sword. The person stopped behind him.

"Jak Feugo?"

Jak turned around and stared at the guard standing next to him. His cold gaze penetrated the man and he soon became quite uncomfortable.

"The.. the committee.. want to s-see you.. F-follow me please"

Jak stood and followed the man out of the room. His hand did not leave the tilt of the sword. He didn't trust this guard, or the committee to that matter. But they had seen him fight in the arena, they had seen how he had deftly dealt with his opponents.

He entered a dimly lit room, with a table surronded by people half-hidden in the shadow. One man leaned into the light.

"Jak Feugo, you performance in the arena was quite spectacular. You are a powerful fighter and a formidable opponent for anyone who opposes you"

Jak decided to ignore the man's attempt to flatter him. After Jak was silent for a while, the man decided that he was not going to answer. He coughed.

"Well.. I'd like to say.. that is.. we, the committee have decided that you would be useful on this mission. There would of course, be some reward, if you accept of your own choice. What is there that you are interested in?"

Jak directed his gaze straight into the man's eyes. The man quickly looked away, then looked back when Jak spoke.

"Revenge"

The men all shifted uncomfortably around the room.

"Well that can.. er.. be arranged. We shall discuss if the mission is a success. So.. er.. I am assuming that you have accepted our mission? If so there is a horse waiting for you outside, along with the others we have chosen for this mission."

Jak nodded and strode quickly from the room.

[Auron's Blade]

Louis strode quickly towards the castle foyer. His armor clanked and echoed loudly as he rushed towards the interior of the castle. He had been summoned to a "secret" meeting, a messenger finding him in the locale tavern. Louis had rushed back here, his mind throbbing after a late night of drinking. What he called his only vice, alcohol had a grip on him that he didn't care to break. But know he was going to be late, something that he hated deeply. He should always be on time, always look his best when summoned, they were rules that he made himself.

He was know within the castle itself and asked a nearby guard for directions. The guard pointed down a stone corridor and Louis walked quickly towards the large wooden door at the end. He ran his fingers through his hair and made sure it was decent. Louis pushed open the door and faced the men inside.

"Mr. Louis I presume?" A deep voiced man asked. Louis thought that this one must be the leader as he sat at the head of the table and was the only one talking. "I do not know your last name, nor does anybody else really."

"Well, good sir, I find it better that way. See I do not know your last name either, nor your first name. So already you have the upper hand." Louis could not make out the faces of the men, they were too far and the room was too dark.

"Upper hand you say? Is everything a competition with you? We are merely here to give you a great opportunity and all you are giving us is hostility." The deep voice said.

"Only the weak speak of giving opportunities, the strong take them. Are you weak, good sir?" Louis began to walk closer to the men, trying to get a better look at them. He made it to the table and picked up one of the men's goblets. "May I?" Louis drank the contents without a reply. He looked over towards the head man and noticed he was older, silver hair flowing from his head.

"That is not of your concerns, what concerns you is this: We have a mission for you. A mission that, if finished, will result in a great reward." Louis listened intently as the man explained the mission. After the man finished Louis waited for a moment.

"Will this be dangerous? Will it test my limits?" Louis asked as he stared at the man.

"Of course it will." This was all the man said.

"Okay, you have me. This mission will be done, for I will give it my all." Louis turned and began to walk out.

"Wait! Mr. Louis, we will provide a horse for you. Talk to the guard outside, he will get it for you."

"Fine. You men have a nice day." Louis said sarcastically as he opened the wooden door. "Oh and light some candles, it's too dark in here."

Louis found the guard and asked for his horse. The guard showed Louis to the stables and began to saddle up a horse.

"Actually, I'd like a black one. Goes with the armor." Louis smiled at the man as he walked out of the stable, the guard quietly cursing him.

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Louis mounted his black horse and rode out. He stopped outside of the castle and stared up at the high towers. He had his gear with him, his bow and arrows on his back. He looked to his right and saw several others standing outside of the castle walls. The nearest one seemed to be a feeble old man. Louis rode over to him and looked him over.

"What are you doing here Grandfather? Are you here begging for coins?" Louis laughed as he noticed the man's simple clothes. "Here let me give you some clothes, old man, they'll save your bones from the cold." Louis laughed again loudly and turned towards the wild. He looked out over the cold, icy wasteland.

"Damn I wish I was home..."

[Musicmuse]

She was dreading the mission, actually. It wasn't that she was scared of failure, nor was she apprehensive of going toe-to-toe with the entire empire. She simply hated knowing that right now she was parading about pretending to be someone she wasn't. A mission like this required relying on those you worked with, reguardless of whether you like them or not... at least if you wished to succeed. How would anyone be able to trsut her after they found out that she had been lying about her true heritage? What if they thought she was a spy? Would they think she had somehow bought her way into this commitee through her royal connections? Could she possibly be turned on and seen as the very evil she was trying so desperately to fight?

All of these thoughts were swirling around in Kyra's mind, and as she sheathed her sword, Icebrand, she couldn't help but let them form a whirlpool of doubt. It seemed to her that the only real thing she was hiding was her title: Princess Shakyria Frezori, daughter and heir to the Ice Kingdom throne. Everything she had fought for and accomplished so far had been under her alias of Kyra, some nobody from nowhere who happened to hear about the secret commitee -- it honestly didn't make sense when you stopped to think about it, but thankfully everything had been moving so quickly that there had been little time for questions or logic. She had been searching for some way to change the course of history, and the tournament for a position in the commitee had presented itself as the perfect opportunity. The battles had been against worthy opponents, but Kyra's drive to be an integral part of this movement had helped her prevail over all others. She had earned her spot on her own behind her entire kingdom's back, and felt that finally things were coming together.

Kyra's thoughts were interrupted by a stable boy handing her the reins to a snow-white horse and asking if there was anything else she needed. Kyra smiled politely and thanked the boy, telling him that she was all set. The stable boy smiled back and nodded contently at her, then turned to start his other duties. Kyra looked at her horse. It was a magnificent creature, very strong and spirited with a flowing mane and shiny coat. The horse's eyes were both kind and fiery, and Kyra stroked his strong back affectionately. He gave a short snort and tossed his mane, indicating that he was quite content with all of this attention. Kyra mounted him and with a graceful motion and nudged him with the side of her foot to propel him forward.

Outside the castle, the billowing snow was whistling on the stiff breeze and as Kyra breathed a wisp of smoke joined the flurries. The crew which was assembled before her was something to behold. She told herself to forget about her worries and just focus on the task at hand. Flecks of snow settled into her raven hair and her porcelin cheecks started to turn pink in the brisk air.

The man closest to her now began to speak, and as she surveyed him she decided he seemed very self-important and overly confident. There was a certain style to his swagger, however, that at least told her he might be able to back up his appearance. He was currently heckling the wise-looking older man due to a shabby appearance, but Kyra was less concerned with how someone looked and more concerned with how they performed. After a few cheap shots the self-important gentleman laughed heartily and peered out over the frozen block of ice Kyra had lived her entire life.

"Damn I wish I was home," the man commented.

Funny, Kyra thought to herself, I actually wish I were anywhere BUT home right now.

[Fehrant]

"Ah, finally some of the triumphant arena members show up!" Cain thought, pleased, as one of them came out. A tall, young man with white hair came out. His skin was almost as pale as the snow, almost eerily camouflaging himself in the surrounding whiteness. His black clothes, however, contrasted too much, and made him stand out. His weapons included a thin sword, and a long knife.

Cain was already getting covered by the snow crops that fell slowly yet steadily. Even so, he caught the glance of the pale man. From his years dealing with people, he determined he could not be easily approached, nor had he any interest in doing so. Cain acknowledged this, and refrained from becoming a bother. He did not however jumped to hasty conclusions, so he remained open to talk if necessary.

Next came another man cloaked in brown. He looked around the same age as the one pale one. He noticed both Cain and the man clad in black, and nodded. Cain kindly returned the greeting, and appreciated the show of respect. He decided he was going to approach him, but that's when he noticed the man kept a careful eye on them. "Even though friends we may be, enemies are fine with me," Cain recited in his mind an old adage trying to translate this man's position into words.

An impeccable knight with bright golden hair left the castle. He was wearing black armor, and mounting a black horse. He looked and the group that had gather so far, and rode towards Cain. Surprised, Cain decided silence was the wisest option to see what this would turn out to be.

"What are you doing here Grandfather? Are you here begging for coins?" The blond man laughed. "Here let me give you some clothes, old man, they'll save your bones from the cold."

Cain smiled, his wrinkles appearing on his face. "Ah, it seems my haggard appearance has me at a loss," he explained with a soft laugh. "I am just like you, my friend, a gracious partaker of the deadly games the group inside will have us play. Nice to meet your acquaintance."

The knight made a comment about his home, seemingly oblivious of Cain's response. Just in time a young woman came out. Despite her womanly charms, and her elegant clothing, Cain realized grimly she was unmistakably another member of the gruesome arena contest, and one of the winners at that.

The old man moved his horse further away to the castle, standing in a position between the building, and the people coming out. "Fellow warriors, hear me out," he beckoned. "My name is Cain, and despite my haggard appearance," he shot a glance at Louis, and smiled, "I am also part of this... event. I shall not speak, nor will I expect anyone to, the details of what purpose unites us, but I henceforth suggest for those interested that we join forces to better ensure the success upon this uneventful quest."

Cain's voice sounded deep and consistent. It had a ring of truth that could only be gained through experience. It sounded noble, yet humble; strong, yet gentle. "Strength," he said, "lies in numbers."

He pointed further to the north, into the white horizon, where no signs of civilization showed. "I am not familiar with this unwelcoming, cold kingdom and its hostile weather, but anyone who knows better is more than welcome to lead the way out of this kingdom, and closer to our destination."

"Without doubt, nevertheless, we shall go across the Water Kingdom. Let us make haste."

With those words, Cain galloped further away from the castle.

(OOC: I know, not much to do for now. Bear with it until we get closer to the Central Kingdom, and farther away from this safe haven. Then I assure you we will have plenty on our hands)

[E L L Y]

Lusia's horse run swift in the snow as fast as lightning,trying to catch up with the others.She could see a few people riding horses in the white snow."We must hurry up,"She pat the horse's back.
"I'm sorry,I'm late",The girl with the golden hair and a bright cyan eyes approached the group.Her beige skin now looked pale white with her cheeks turning red."It sure is pretty cold out here"She then decided that she'll just keep quiet.She looked at a girl,who looks younger than her.Then she could see a few others on the front line. "Well,can't turn back! " She then galloped to the front but still behind the old man.She doesn't really know the way.She could see the blond guy at the right side,trying to gallop faster than her.She just grinned at him."Nice to meet you..yeah,"Lusia then turned her face to the front again."His eyes somehow looks unique,"thought Lusia.She then breathes in the cold air.She could feel her body shivering.At the back of her is her bow and her sword is attached to her belt."I shouldn't have worn a dress",she sighed.

[Auron's Blade]

"Damn I wish I was home...."

The cold wind bit into Louis face as he stared out over the frozen land. The Ice Kingdom it was called, a fitting name for this land that was constantly under the spell of Winter. The whole time Louis had been it this dreadful place it had snowed. Oh, how he missed the summers of his homeland. He missed the swimming holes and the cool forests of his childhood. But that was all gone. Now he was a killer, a failure, a fool. He wished the sand in the hourglass could be reversed so he could be a child again. Damn, he missed home.

Another person emerged from the castle and Louis turned to notice her. She was atop a snow-white horse and she had a air of importance around her. Almost like she was special or something. Louis couldn't put his finger on it at the moment, he was too entranced by her beauty. She was a looker this one, a girl that was beautiful, yet she knew how to handle herself. Louis could tell that by the way she held her self, strong, straight, she was a girl to reckon with.

But this wasn't the place to be checking out a fellow teammate. Louis looked back over he land, his breath clouding in front of his face.

Then the old man started to talk.

"Fellow warriors, hear me out," He began, voice deep and commanding. "My name is Cain, and despite my haggard appearance," he shot a glance at Louis, and smiled, "I am also part of this... event. I shall not speak, nor will I expect anyone to, the details of what purpose unites us, but I henceforth suggest for those interested that we join forces to better ensure the success upon this uneventful quest."

"Touché, old man." Louis smirked a little and turned back to the land. What this man said was like every other leader Louis had ever had. 'Stay together, fight hard' All that stuff. Louis had heard it before.

But suddenly everyone was leaving. Louis snapped back and saw the old man leading the rest of the group. Louis kicked his horse's flanks and took off after the group.

He quickly caught up and pulled along side the old man, not leading, but not exactly following either.

[GrimmJaw]

Rei stood outside, observing the cold wasteland. His emerald orbs took in everything.
An arrogant looking warrior clad in all black strode of out the castle. He spoke a few words to the old man, but before Rei heard the remainder of the conversation, another came out of the castle. This one, a female with dark hair and pale skin. She seemed confident, but not cocky like the knight. Rei glanced at the group of "People" that had exit the castle. He could tell from their appearances that they could hold their own in battle. The old man got their attention and began to speak.

"Fellow warriors, hear me out," He began, voice deep and commanding. "My name is Cain, and despite my haggard appearance," he shot a glance at Louis, and smiled, "I am also part of this... event. I shall not speak, nor will I expect anyone to, the details of what purpose unites us, but I henceforth suggest for those interested that we join forces to better ensure the success upon this uneventful quest."

Rei nodded in agreement and mounted his horse swiftly. His blonde steed trode stongly through the wasteland. It seemed to be a tame steed, albeit a bit stubborn. Rei's hand swiftly fell to his rapier, less than an instant later, it was out, pointing at the female who'd just strode up. Rei had heard the clicking of horse a few moment before he had drawn his blade, but paid no mind until he heard its pace quicken. She had pulled up next to the arrogant warrior and began to speak.

"Nice to meet you..yeah,"

Rei quickly interrupted her, his blade still drawn.

"You. State your name, and reason for being here. Do it...Now.

Rei spoke in a fierce tone, pushing the neccesity to speak, or heed the consequences.

[Fehrant]

The party galloped in silence under the never ending snow. The snow crunched beneath the hooves of horses, but no other noise was present, not even that of the wind. Everything around them was of the purest white color, with few speckles of other colors when pine trees or rocks were revealed from underneath the white mantle.

"Nice to meet you.. yeah," came a casual voice from the newcomer. A voice quickly cut her off. "You. State your name, and reason for being here. Do it... Now." Cain turned to see the pale looking man pointing a sword at the girl who had just spoken. The old man turned around and slowly approached them. Everyone else had also stopped. Some shook their heads is annoyance, while others simply ignored the situation. When close enough, he placed his staff between the sword and the girl.

"Please, there's no need to be rude to the girl," Cain explained gently. "I am sure we are all suspicious and perhaps a bit on the edge because of how dangerous this task is, but let us avoid unnecessary fighting, specially when our numbers are so small. Every bit of strength is welcome." He smiled at both of them.

"Besides," he continued. "There's nothing wrong with breaking the ice with a warm greeting." He made a pause, as if becoming aware of his own words. "'Breaking the ice'," he repeated, realizing the pun. "Hohoho," the old man laughed deeply. He slowly tapped the girl's horse and it continued moving forward.

"Let us make continue our voyage, my friend;" said the old man, as he kept repeating 'breaking the ice' and laughing to himself, and if enthralled with his own joke.

After a while, a small village became visible. Cain pointed with his staff at it. "We should stop there for a while," he suggested. "I would like to ask some directions, and other tidbits of information, like for instance if the blasted weather will cease soon. Let us break the ice! Hohoho," he laughed in his contagious, earnest laughter.

Once in the village, everyone got off their horses. They walked through the main road, with houses at either side, but no villager showed up. Cain, who was in fro