Felix vs. Genesis

[Hades]

Round two did prove interesting, but this was the round that Hades was really waiting for. The arena had changed again. This time there were random walls about five feet across strewn about the field. The walls were about five feet high, as well. The crowds roared with excitement until Hades appeared to speak, once more. "How about that last round, huh? A little mayhem and excitement is always fun. Great matches, for the most part, and blood thrown in a few others! Let's continue the tournament now!" The crowd roared again as the gates rose to let the combatants enter the field. "Entering from the South Gate, Felix! And entering from the North Gate, Genesis!" The crowd continued to cheer and were loving every minute of the battles.

Hades raised a hand and everyone fell silent. He loved doing that. "You'll notice the arena's changed again. Well, these walls will have a greater purpose after explaining the stipulation." The Lord of the Dead threw a ball of energy into the center of the field and both fighters instantly couldn't see anything. In fact, the entire arena was covered in darkness. No one could see either fighter. "This will be your typical Dark Combat. None of your spells or abilities are limited, but spells will not light up the area. In fact, nothing will. You will have to feel around to find your opponent. The only thing you will see, though, is a small arrow that will direct you to your target. That ought to be fun, huh?" The crowd began to protest and complain. They wanted to see the battle. They didn't come all this way just to look at darkness. This angered Hades, and that was always a bad thing. He flashed red as he said, "Hey, you want to keep this up? I can throw you ALL into the UNDERWORLD. If you'd be PATIENT, I could finish WHAT. I. STARTED!!!!!" Fire erupted from all around the arena before Hades calmed down again. Silence fell across the crowd again. "Now, my lovely fighters... BEGIN!" Magic screens appeared around the arena for the crowd. They would be able to see the fight, but the fighters below could see nothing. The Lord of the Dead was ready to see what his puppets would do now.



-OOC: Okay, so your character can't see the other character or any of the walls in their way. I look forward to see how you come up with finding your opponent. Crashing into a wall or two gets you brownie points if it makes me laugh. 72 hour post limit, 2 week round limit. No other limitations other than sight. Have fun. First up is Felix.-

[Felix]

After successfully pummeling his last opponent, Felix’s final ploy of that match working like a charm, the red head would find himself proceeding to the next round. Yes, he would walk out of the arena cockily, cranking his neck and letting his lips into an shit eating arrogant smirk as if it he hadn’t even broke a sweat. Whatever the case, proceeding back into the waiting area the red-head would take a quick chug of the healing waters, sticking his tongue out immediately after it went down his throat. It was still just as bitter as last time, nearly making the freelancer heave at the taste but he managed to keep both the liquid and his lunch down with sheer force of willpower.

”Jeez, you’d think at the very least he would put out something to wash out the taste after,” he complained as he began to scratch the back of his head with a sheepish expression on his face, ”although on the other hand he could NOT provide the healing waters at all and force us to fight matches one after another, sounds like something that sadist would do,” he added, still irritated by how the preliminaries had proceeded. Several innocent civilians had gotten hurt during the match, no protection having been offered to them when the battle began by their “host” Hades. Considering said “host” was a god or whatever, it was safe to assume that if he had wanted to that he could have protected said civilians. Instead he simply watched and seemed to enjoy seeing not only the warriors fight desperately to survive against the atrocity but also the panic that ensued amongst the crowds. Clenching his right fist tightly and gritting his teeth, he punched his left hand and gripped his fist as his eyes took on a resolute gleam.

Probably didn’t even offer them the same healing waters… whatever once the tournament is over I can beat him up for it,[/i] he thought, grinning as he stretched his arms above his head, and maybe while I’m at it I can get those related to the injured to pay me for getting them some revenge,[/i] he mused as he sat down on a nearby bench taking a moment to rest.

Said moment later, he was informed that it was time to fight once more and with that he made his way to the arena. Hands in pockets, he had a look of indifference on his face as Hades announced his presence although he smiled a bit upon hearing who he was facing… Genesis. Flexing his right wrist as his left hand gripped it; the red-head let out a chuckle as he shook his head and began to loosen up the rest of his body. A bit of stretching was necessary after all, the man he was about to fight was one of the few to ever beat him and he needed to be ready to move his body however the situation called for. Furthermore, the fight with Akemi hadn’t even got him warmed up; battling greenhorns wasn’t much fun or enlightening.

”Heh so it seems we meet in the tournament now huh? I was hoping we would face off in the finals so we could give the audience a show stomper of a performance but it seems fate has decided otherwise. I hope you’re ready to lose Genesis cause I won’t allow this be third year winning this thing running,” the freelancer spieled cockily, a grin accompanying his words but if Genesis noticed it before everything went dark he couldn’t say. Slightly alarmed, Felix twitched at the sudden loss of sight as he looked around hoping to find anything. Alas there was nothing to find and even when putting his hand directly in his face he was unable to see it. Sighing heavily, the freelancer put his hands on his hips as he listened to the rest of the rules Hades gave out, running a hand through his hair in frustration.

It be one thing fighting blind but to make it so the rest of the crowd can’t see either is just beyond me,[/i] he thought and the crowd seemed to agree with him on that as they quickly began complaining. Their complaints were soon met with Hades’ fury, the deity exploding and threatening to take them to the fiery pits of hell if they didn’t recede into silence. This caused the freelancer to frown and looking in the direction of where the booming voice came from, the red-head shot a hard glare at the Lord of the Dead.

”Why don’t you keep your customers out of this big guy? If you want to throw someone into the underworld throw me into it after I win this tournament, I certainly wouldn’t mind getting the chance to beat you down,” the crimson haired combatant announced. While it was probably not the smartest idea to get on Hades’ bad side, the freelancer was getting a bit tired of his incessant threats and showmanship. Whatever the case, the freelancer returned to a neutral stance as Hades “rung the bell” as he pondered on what to do. While Felix had fought in darkness a few times prior to this particular battle, it was still not an easy task for him to accomplish. He wasn’t specifically trained to do it and while it was unlikely Genesis had been either, the crimson coated individual was battle-hardened much like him and could probably cope with this handicap just as well if not better.

Tch and using Wind or Lightning Manipulator will just make it easier for him if I decide to use those as they make some noise,[/i] he thought as he crouched down and looked to the ground. As was stated there was an arrow pointing toward his opponent’s general direction which would be helpful and… hmmm.

I wonder… he said it pointed in their general direction and while that might apply for an aerial attack by pointing upwards…[/i] he thought as a plan formulated in his head. Taking a deep breath, Felix would activate his Earth Manipulator[/b] causing loose rocks around the arena to cling to his body. When coated from head to toe the freelancer would take off in the direction the arrow was pointing to but in a very odd way. Indeed, his upper body was parallel with the floor as he ran in a very low stance whilst looking at the arrow beneath him.

I can’t see his arrow but if the arrow doesn’t tell him that I’ve taken a lowered stance I might be able to score an easy first strike against him without him retaliating,[/i] he mused as he continued toward his target. He wouldn’t stop either when he thought he was close, in fact he was planning to run straight into Genesis although not in the way most would expect. Instead when he felt he was near his employer he would get ready to wrap his arms around his legs as he rammed his right shoulder into them and swept his legs out from under him. If successful this attack would cause two things, one it would force Genesis to the ground where Felix was certain he was more proficient in fighting and two would cause part of the rocky armor surrounding his body to break off and weigh down Genesis. Assuming it landed as intended, Felix would quickly move to follow up the takedown and attempt to plant a shin on Genesis stomach for a “knee mount” (not sure why they call it that since you put the shin on the stomach). While a full mount would be better to rain down punches with, it wouldn’t allow him to hop off Genesis nearly as quickly as the knee mount. Regardless, if he managed to get the position as intended he would rain down punches on where he believed Genesis’ head to be.

OOC: Earth Manipulator[/b] - By using the same principle behind Mass Manipulator, Felix is able to manipulate the element of earth to his will. When activated, Felix’s body will be covered in an armor made of rock, reducing any incoming damage by 25% whether it is magical or physical (the ability does not provide him any extra resistance to Earth elemental attacks). As for his attacks, they will all be given Earth elemental damage on top the physical damage Felix deals normally. If attacked directly, part of Felix’s rocky armor will break off and attach itself to his opponent’s feet, weighing them down and slowing their movement speed (Slow) for two turns. The status effect will not be applied if the opponent is attacked with his katana. The manipulator has a duration of two posts and cannot be used with any other manipulator simultaneously and has a three post cool down. Furthermore, after it falls off, Felix will not be able to use any other elemental manipulator for one post.
(Added as raid #105 reward 2nd of May, 2011.)

[Inflicts Elemental Exhaustion[/b] on Felix]

Duration - 1/2 posts

[Genesis Rhapsodos]

Compared to how long the preliminaries lasted and the type of enemy faced within, the second round for the Crimson Champion turned out to be much shorter and much easier then he had initially expected. The man known as Cid Raines felt and appeared to be a strong opponent, but not shortly after the match had started did the brightly coloured man concede defeat. Whether it was the multiple platforms dotted about the arena, introduced by the Lord of the Dead himself, or the fact that specific rules had been added to the round, again courtesy of Hades, who knew? Either way, Genesis Rhapsodos found himself without an opponent and thus found himself heading into the next round without doing anything more then taking a punch and leaping up onto one of the many platforms. Just as quickly as it had started, so did it end. Just like that, Genesis found himself standing back in the lobby where the other successful combatants waited to heal and rest their bodies before all heading back out to do the same again.

Genesis was disappointed.

He was hoping to find himself facing up to new, strong warriors from across the stars, but instead he was left with an empty feeling within his stomach. A lack of satisfaction. It was slightly infuriating, but the SOLDIER 1st Class just smiled to himself and clenched his hands to and from tight fists a couple of times. There was nothing that could be done, other then hope he was going to be put up against someone who was going to give him more of a run for his money this time around. As that thought danced about his mind, the auburn-haired SOLDIER made his way back to the healing fountains provided by the Lord of the Dead. While he hadn't exactly taken any damage from Cid Raines, it wasn't going to hurt to be back to 100% strength. As such, the SOLDIER cupped a single hand of water and brought it swiftly to his lips, drinking the sparkling liquid and instantly pulling a sour face at the taste.

It was enough though to be sure he was fighting fit and after waiting a few more moments for the remaining matches to finish, Genesis turned about when an official approached, informing him that his next round was about to start. As if on cue, the booming voice of the Lord of the Dead begun to echo about the arena. As Hades spoke his piece, Genesis made his way off towards the North Gate, following the official as he lead the way. Upon reaching it, Genesis closed his eyes and took a long, slow inhale of air through his nose before releasing it out through his mouth. The cheering from the crowd made the hairs on his arms stand on end every time. There was just an incredible, unexplainable feeling one got from hearing hundreds of people cheering your name, urging you to do you best, wanting to see you succeed and progress further through the rounds of the tournament. Though while Genesis had hoped his next opponent was going to provide some challenge, he wasn't expecting the name of his current employee to be called out to soon.

~Felix already?~
Pondered the Crimson SOLDIER as he opened his eyes which begun to glow brightly, possibly with excitement, as the gate before him clanked before slowly raising up, the rattling of chains being the method to raise the gate. Stepping forth, the audience roared with approval as the Crimson Champion made himself known. He raised a hand and did his usual wave to the ones who had come to watch him fight, lowering it down to his side as he walked up the steps to the arena where Felix stood, ready and waiting. There was a new change to the arena this time. The many floating platforms had been replaced with walls, at least 5 foot high, all about the place. That would make running and attacking in a straight line difficult. It was also mean Genesis' Flash

[/b] spell was not going to be so effective unless he threw the fireballs up into the air and allowed them to rain down upon the red-head. But then again, a new stipulation was bound to be introduced like when he fought against Cid Raines. Knowing his luck, magic spells themselves were going to be removed from the round.

Hades spoke up and as he explained what was going on, Genesis simply stared at Felix, his face stern, eyes narrowed. His expression, while Felix could still see it, was one of seriousness. He remembered the last time they fought and the red-head was not going to get so many strikes against him this time. No chance. This was Genesis' tournament. He was going to fight his way to the top once more, and Felix of all people, was not going to stop him. As such, he simply continued to stare at Felix, watching him with a dangerous glare within his eye. Perhaps he was trying to psyche him out? Maybe he wanted Felix to know that he wasn't going to hold back this time? All of a sudden, everything went pitch black. He could still hear everything about him, such as the audience starting to moan and complain about not being able to see anything either, followed by a rant from the Lord of the Dead himself, an explosion silencing the crowd. No one was hurt though, for the crowd were still muttering and mumbling to themselves. No screams, no pleas for help.

The Crimson SOLDIER tilted his head and pondered for a second. Lifting up his left arm and holding his hand before his face, waving his hand about while he was at it, he let a small 'heh' escape his lips. He couldn't see anything at all. Even when he flexed his fingers and caused a Flash[/b] fireball to spawn within his palm, was he still utterly blind. No light, from anything, was going to remove this darkness that now surrounded both himself and his opponent. Dispelling the ball of flame from his hand, Genesis grinned and lowered his head. He was about to close his eyes and rely on his hearing alone, until he noticed an arrow near his feet, pointing directly to where he last saw Felix. He hadn't heard his friend move, so the arrow remained pointing in the same direction.
~He must have one too... So he can find me even if I stay still and silent.~
The SOLDIER thought to himself as he suddenly heard Hades give the all clear for the match to begin. Genesis closed his eyes and tilted his head to one side, aiming an ear in Felix's direction and sure enough, could hear his footsteps getting closer and closer. It seemed the lack of sight wasn't going to stop the Freelancer from launching a direct assault.

Genesis smirked and he took a few steps backwards. He remembered that there was a brick wall not too far away from him as he entered the arena, so after raising a hand to his right, he stopping moving backwards and started to head to his right-hand side, positioning a wall between himself and the Freelancer. Here he waited, knowing Felix was bound to change direction to follow the arrow he could undoubtedly see. Giving it just a second or two, Genesis suddenly spawned his Angel's Wing[/b] and took off up into the skies of the arena. Even up here it was still pitch black. No matter. The arrow had changed direction for the auburn-haired man, so it was still pointing towards the red-head.
~I'll hear him coming if he decides to jump or use one of his Manipulators.~
Genesis thought to himself as he maintained a hover within the air. He had no idea how high up he was, so just to play it safe, he flew higher still, guessing he was at least 40 feet within the air by now. Up here, the SOLDIER 1st Class brought his hands up before his chest and concentrated his energy until he summoned forth a Genesis Clone Level 3[/b] who appeared out of a cluster of black feathers as if Sephiroth or Kadaj had just used their teleportation technique.

Whether the Clone had his own arrow or if Felix now found himself with two arrows at his feet, one will never know, but either way, both Genesis and his Clone started to fly after one another in large circles about the arena, taking care not to fly into the barrier that protected the audience from harm. Hoping to confuse the Freelancer down on the floor below with this, especially if he had acquired a second arrow due to the Clone, the swiftly moving and rotating arrows encircling about the red-head was bound to confused him as to which one was pointing at the real SOLDIER. Both Genesis and the Clone suddenly stopped, turned about, and raised their left arms up and out before themselves. A brightly glowing ball of flame, not that that mattered, formed within each of their hands before they both unleashed a Flash[/b] spell down upon Felix. They both swung their arm a second time to double up the attack, releasing at least 40 Flashes[/b] that all shot downwards, tracking and following Felix until they either hit the floor, one of the walls, the barrier around the arena, or Felix himself. An aerial assault was going to work best in this situation.

Felix was going home today.
[/blockquote]

-=Cooldowns=-

Genesis Clone Level 3[/b] - 3 Post Duration -- Genesis can spawn an identical Clone of himself. The clone can use all of Genesis' abilities other then summoning another Clone. Clone is just as strong, tough and fast as Genesis is. Cooldown starts when duration ends.

Flash[/b] - 1 Post -- Forming a ball of flame within his hand, Genesis can unleash between 5 and 10 Flashes with a single swing of his arm. Swinging twice releases double the number of Flashes. The fireballs explode violently upon contact and have excellent tracking capabilities.

Clone Flash[/b] - 1 Post -- Forming a ball of flame within its hand, the Clone can unleash between 5 and 10 Flashes with a single swing of its arm. Swinging twice releases double the number of Flashes. The fireballs explode violently upon contact and have excellent tracking capabilities.

[Felix]

Running forward as fast as he could in his semi-awkward running stance, the freelancer began to slow down as he watched the arrow pointing to Genesis start moving. It wasn’t moving very quickly but none the less it was something that caused him to be a bit alarmed especially since he couldn’t remember exactly where all the walls around here were. While he had taken note of them it wasn’t as if he got more than about a minute to really look at them before everything went dark. Thus he had to proceed with caution and slowed his pace down a bit thus allowing him to not look like a complete fool when he was stopped by the wall Genesis had put between him and the freelancer. Indeed, instead of crashing into it headfirst he simply rammed his right shoulder into it, getting a grunt out of him but not much more. It stung but thanks to Earth Manipulator[/b] and slowing down just a tad, the damage was minimal at best. Whatever the case, he would then close his eyes as he took a deep breath, trying to envision where all the walls were again to the best of his ability. It was a rough sketch in his mind and while he was sure it was off a bit, it would serve to have somewhat of an image of where everything was. Especially since Genesis soon decided to take to the air although that didn’t surprise the freelancer much, the LOVELESS quoter did that all the time it was a habit.
 
Needless to say though it put Felix at quite the disadvantage right now since he was a close-range fighter through and through with absolutely no ranged attacks. Without the ability of flight, he couldn’t catch him easily and even if he had flight and could throw combos in the air, he imagined they wouldn’t be very effective without his feet on ground so he could pivot. Whatever the case, the freelancer was in a bit of a bind now and the odds become further stacked in Genesis favor as another sound popped around the arena. Instinctively the red-head got in a defensive stance but much to his surprise he wasn’t attacked and in fact all he heard instead was the sound of Genesis taking flight… again? That was odd, the flapping of his wing hadn’t ceased yet so how could he have taken off to the skies again? Furthermore the flapping of the wing was off-sync, it seemed like it was two rapid flaps as opposed to one flap every second or so.
 
If that’s the case… the only logical explanation is that he has a cloning technique,[/i] he deduced as he looked down to the arrow once more as the Genesis and his clone begun to circle him. The arrow spun rapidly but much to his relief only one arrow was present thus allowing him to still know exactly where Genesis was regardless of his clone technique. This would bode well for the red-head especially since it was likely Genesis was hoping that he would be confused and perhaps receive two arrows. Regardless, when the beating of wings finally stopped he could assume what was coming next, a ranged attack of some sort although which one out of Genesis’ near limitless arsenal was the question. Were he able to see what was going on he could tell much easier but as he took a moment to let this all sink in his head his question was soon answered by the sound of a small explosion against the wall he was behind.
 
Flash if I recall correctly?[/i] he thought and immediately began moving as the balls went to chasing. He had faced this technique before and knew that they had an annoying homing ability, perfect for this type of battle where one was unable to really aim. While it was fortunate that the freelancer had some walls and Earth Manipulator[/b] covering his body to protect from damage, eating them would not be very prudent. No, the intent was probably to whittle him down before coming in for the kill, a sound strategy but one that Felix wouldn’t allow. If Genesis wanted to score some real damage he would have to come back to the ground and the red-head would facilitate in helping him do just that. Covering the top of his head with his forearms, Felix would hastily make his way toward the direction the arrow was pointing while keeping low to the ground. By doing so, he lessened the area on his body that could be hit and any flashes that went toward his head would not only be weakened by Earth Manipulator[/b] but by the forearm guards, the Corundum Armor[/b] he was currently wearing. A few hit the walls, a few hit the forearm guards, and a few hit the freelancer in relatively unguarded spots but he gritted his teeth and pressed on. Now was the greatest chance for him to attack as Genesis’s wouldn’t be able to hear him coming with the multitude of explosions going off courtesy of his own attack. Yet that wasn’t the only way Felix planned to use Genesis’ own attack against him, he still had one more trick up his sleeve. After weaving past what few walls remained (thanks to Genesis blowing up the majority of them), when Felix had finally gotten under the LOVELESS quoter as confirmed by his arrow pointing directly upward, his Earth Manipulator[/b] would just run out as another explosion rang through the arena via one the few remaining Flashes headed toward Felix crashing into a wall. As that sound blanketed the arena, he would activate Mass Manipulator, reducing his mass twenty times over and jumping up high, his arms extended above his head.
 
Once he felt the touch of Genesis boots, the freelancer would quickly snake his hands upward, grip the man’s ankles and pull down, attempting to whip him toward the ground. Although that wouldn’t be enough to ground Genesis and Felix knew that all too well for as he did so he would also increase the mass of everything below his waist to twenty times heavier, making his mass equivalent to roughly 1,500 to 2,000lbs (he didn’t care to do the math at that moment). If caught within the freelancer’s grasp, they were certainly going to go down and fast but this is where the second way the red-head was going to use Genesis’ attack against him would come about. Indeed, for as he whipped him toward the ground during their descent, any stray Flashes still headed toward Felix would inevitably be shielded by Genesis’ own body. The balls of light weren’t smart enough to make hard turns to curve around to get to their target and thus if all went well, on top of being about eat a face full of the stone arena now littered with rocks thanks to Genesis’ previous attack, he would be getting a few Flashes to the chest.
 
Assuming all went well and Felix did indeed ground Genesis, whipping his body into the ground as they landed the freelancer wouldn’t stop there. No, with the knowledge that there was still another clone around he needed to make sure to eliminate the likelihood of another ranged attack. Thus with the Ex-SOLIDER’s ankles still gripped tightly, Felix would pull him underneath his legs and mount his backside. Crushing him with the mass switch that was still in effect, Felix would then grab the man’s wing and violently tug at it in an attempt to rip it off. While there was a chance his boss could simply grow it back, he was certain it would hurt like all hell and, presumably, limit his ability to fly. Furthermore, so long as he remained on Genesis’ back and unless his employer was crazy, his ranged attacks would be locked down. Indeed, from what Felix knew of his employer, all the other ranged attacks he saw in his arsenal were ones that had a large area of effect and to attack the red-head on his back, Genesis would also have to hurt himself in the process. While Felix questioned whether his boss would truly do something so reckless, he was ready for whatever Genesis decided to throw at him. There was no way Felix was losing this fight and he would be as brutal, underhanded, and dirty as he had to be if it meant victory. He was but a mere human and these kinds of tactics were his bread and butter. Fighting honorably wasn’t worth jack, what mattered was the result and if the result of his dirty fighting was victory, he could certainly live with that.
 
I’m a human through and through and by whatever means necessary I will win this fight and the others that proceed it,[/i] he would muse as he tugged and tugged at the base of Genesis’ wing to rip it off.
 
OOC: Corundum Armor - Not satisfied with just clashing blades with his opponents, Felix has now acquired a pair of arm guards and shin guards for himself. The equipment is made of Corundum much like his katana and thus is damn near unbreakable. Not only can said guards be used to block blades and allow Felix to slip into the opponent's range, they can also be used to block spells more efficiently than he used to. Indeed, all spells will have their damage reduced by 1/3 if blocked properly. The amount of weight they add is negligible thus allowing him still relatively unabated movement (although on the same token does not allow Mass Manipulator to be used on said equipment).

[Equipment Added On - May 22, 2012]

Earth Manipulator[/b] - Duration over, 3 Post CD START

Elemental Exhaustion – Whenever the duration of a Elemental Manipulator expires, Felix will be unable to use another Elemental Manipulator for one turn.

Mass Manipulator - With this ability, Felix is able to manipulate his mass at will as well as any objects he is currently holding. The max amount of mass he can increase in regards to his body is times twenty and vice-versa in reducing his mass. In regards to objects he is holding/touching, Felix can increase their mass by 1000 times and reduce them down to the mass of a simple feather. Due to the immense strain this ability causes on him mentally, he is only able to use it for three minutes (three posts) before having to deactivate the ability. Not only that but after deactivating it, recovery time takes at least 2-4 minutes (2-4 posts) depending on how many times his mass is manipulated during the minute it's active, 5 switches being the max (1-2 switches, 2 post CD, 3-4 switches 3 post CD, and 5 switches 4 post CD).

(This ability has been upgraded from it's 'switch' limit, the duration and it's cooldown (Only able to use it for one minute, recovery time takes at least 3-5 minutes (3-5 posts) depending on how many times his mass is manipulated during the minute it's active, 3 switches being the max (1 time, 3 posts, 2 times, 4 posts, 3 times, 5 posts) from raid #71 reward, 6th of December 2010.)

2 Switches used / 1 out of 3 post duration / Current Mass x 20 on lower body

[Genesis Rhapsodos]

Explosions begun to shake the arena slightly as the several Flashes sent from both the SOLDIER 1st Class and his Clone begun to meet with objects down upon the arena floor, be that the walls, which was true thanks to the rumbling and crumbling of brick and mortar, the arena floor, also true due to the same sounds as well as Felix himself. Since both Genesis and his Clone had their backs to the magical barrier, none of the fiery balls of flame had hit them. Though as expected, once the spell was launched, the arrow pointing towards the red-head had started to move. Obviously he had heard the Flashes approaching or one of them had either crashed nearby or hit him directly to alert him of what was happening. Or possibly he simply felt the heat coming from that and then reacted accordingly. Felix's arrow moved steadily, not really slowing or stopping due to receiving a hit either from a fiery attack or by hitting a wall, and between the sounds of explosions, the continued crumbling of bricks lead the Crimson SOLDIER to believe there were few walls remaining.

~He has no where to hide down there now.~
The auburn-haired man thought to himself. He felt sorry for the audience however, for they too were unable to see anything happening. However, a cheer did erupt from half of the arena as the fans of the SOLDIER 1st Class had recognized the sound of the Flash spell. The cheers and chants as well as the explosions themselves were loud enough to mask out any sounds that Felix was possibly making, but due to the arrow providing from Hades, now pointing directly down, Genesis just smirked to himself as everything started to fall into place. Even with the endless darkness blinding his sight, it was as clear as reading an open book what Felix was planning. The best way for the red-headed Freelancer to get the upper hand, was by catching the Crimson SOLDIER and finding a way to pin him down. That Mass Manipulator he had, was going to be such a way. However, this was exactly what Genesis was expecting.

Raising up his right arm, Genesis summoned his Rapier to his hand, taking a firm grip of the blades handle as not to drop it in the darkness. It wasn't going to hurt to have a means to attack if the red-head got too close. Though, instead of trying to deal damage to the red-head by pointing the blade down beneath him, having a long sharp shard of metal between himself and the boy, Genesis instead simply beat his wing and flew off around the other side of the arena instead, watching as the arrow pointing at Felix very quickly changed direction up to the same level as himself. The red-head wasn't far off catching him.
"Try harder!"
Genesis taunted as he met up beside his Clone who stood it's ground and maintained it's hover. The arrow helped direct each fighter towards their opponent, but how could Felix catch what he could not actually see? Watching as the arrow pointing at Felix changed to indicating he had returned back down to the arena floor, the 'twins' extended their left arms out in front of them and both begun to charge up a large, fiery ball of light blue flame in the form of Holy

[/b]. It took little charge time to cast, but as soon as they were ready, both Holy[/b] spells were cast down upon the arena floor, spread out slightly to ensure the following eruptions would absorb all hiding places on the arena floor. Two thunderous explosions erupted against what remained of the walls erected by Hades, any left standing no longer were. The magical barrier that protected the audience could just be heard groaning as piece of rubble as well as the spells themselves struck against it. Two large, 20-foot wide arcs of Holy energy made their presences known in audio only, but anything down upon the arena floor would find out in a different way that they had introduced themselves.

Whether anything came of that at all, Genesis didn't know. He couldn't see anything. The best he could have hoped for that if both spells missed their target, the display... or sound, of such an attack would shake Felix up a little. There was plenty more where that came from. Waiting a second or two for everything to settle down, both Clone and it's Master returned to the arena floor, tucking their wings behind their backs to at least stop telling Felix where they were with sound. They were stuck with the arrow, no matter what, but to counter that, the two SOLDIER 1st Classes altered their formation. Standing at the front was the Clone, Rapier raised and pointing in the direction the arrow was pointing. Behind, standing a few feet back, was Genesis, Rapier lowered but keeping his ears open for any sounds other then that of the cheering crowd.
~Come at me 'bro', is what you'd say, isn't it? Make a move Felix. I'm going to crush you.~
Thought the SOLDIER 1st Class. Mass Manipulator was going to still be in effect, but with two Crimson SOLDIER's in the arena, it would take an instant for one to aid the other.
[/blockquote]

Genesis Clone has 100% health remaining.

-=Cooldowns=-

Genesis Clone Level 3[/b] - 2 Post Duration Remaining. -- Genesis can spawn an identical Clone of himself. The clone can use all of Genesis' abilities other then summoning another Clone. Clone is just as strong, tough and fast as Genesis is. Cooldown starts when duration ends.

Flash[/b] - Ready to be Used.

Holy[/b] - 5 Posts. -- Forming a ball of light blue flame within his hand, Genesis can unleash an unguided but very fast traveling ball of Holy energy that explodes in a violent, 20-foot wide blast of Holy power upon contact with enemy or scenery.

Clone Flash[/b] - Ready to be Used.

Clone Holy[/b] - 5 Posts. -- Forming a ball of light blue flame within it's hand, the Clone can unleash an unguided but very fast traveling ball of Holy energy that explodes in a violent, 20-foot wide blast of Holy power upon contact with enemy or scenery.

[Felix]

Well that didn’t go as planned, I swear for a champion two years running you would think he wouldn’t run away from his opponent at every turn,[/i] thought the freelancer as his body touched the ground with a thunderous boom, Then again I suppose it speaks volumes of how scared he is to even take one blow for me,[/i] he mused as he released the mass switch on himself, bringing his mass to normal. Whatever the case, with Genesis still in the air and soon flying away with his tail between his legs again, the freelancer had to think of another method of attack. He had an ace up his sleeve and while he would have liked to save it for the finals, considering his opponent was Genesis he didn’t have much in the way of a choice but to use it. Problem was, it would require some time to set up and considering Genesis’ near limitless arsenal surviving until he could use said ace would prove difficult. On the other hand, if he pulled it off he was certain that not even his employer could stand up to an attack of that degree and thus it was really the only option he had left. Yes, this would be the start of his all or nothing plan to beat the Ex-SOLIDER and despite how low the chances were of staying alive long enough to pull it off, he couldn’t help but grin.
 
Is it any different from nearly all the fights I’ve had now? I’ve had to put my life on the line each time so this one should be no different. If I want to beat this guy I have to do nothing LESS than something this insane and prolong the fight until I can get this move ready,[/i] he mused as he would begin to hear something not so pleasant… he was charging Holy wasn’t he? He had heard it once in their fight in the last tournament and during the fight with Lava Titan so there was no mistaking it. It was distinct and considering he had a clone out it was highly likely that said clone was charging it up as well to make it even harder to escape unscathed. In fact, unless he used Mass Manipulator[/b] to reduce his mass twenty times over again, there was no chance of avoiding this attack… so be it. Reaching his arm around, he soon felt the barrier that was currently protecting the audience, smirking lightly as he decided how to deal with this doozy of an attack. Turning his back to the wall and stepping only a foot away from it, Felix would jump up in the air and press his back against the wall as the explosion washed over the entire arena. Lifting his arms and legs, Felix would shell up and make use of his Corundum Armor[/b] again, taking a brunt of the explosion with his armor. While it reduced the damage an ample amount, Felix couldn’t hold back giving some audible cue to its effectiveness, a fairly audible sound erupting from his lungs (although if it could be heard over the explosion was a different story). Whatever the case, as the energy faded away from the arena and Felix fell back to the ground, he would grimace painfully as he gritted his teeth and attempted to stand back up. It was difficult but he managed none the less, grateful that the armor he was using was proving its worth many times over. Such a combo may have left him unconscious if it weren’t for his armor but thanks to it he had managed to stay in this fight and could still fight. The adrenaline was really pumping now too, helping him ignore the pain as he got back up and let out a silent long breath and focused so that whatever happened next wouldn’t miss him. And that it didn’t for Genesis soon landed afterwards along with his clone, the two then remaining silent probably to avoid giving the red-head any hints as to their position. Indeed, all he had to go on now was the arrow and deductive reasoning, two very helpful tools no doubt but certainly much better when coupled with his sense of hearing.
 
Regardless, the freelancer still had Mass Manipulator active for the time being and he had to think of an attack that would hit the LOVELESS quoter this time. While his master plan of unleashing an all or nothing attack would prove incredibly painful later on, any additional damage he could inflict upon Genesis would help him. Furthermore, simply running until he could pull off that plan wouldn’t be prudent as he was certain Genesis would piece together something was odd. Indeed, the freelancer was never one to run from a challenge so if he began to bide his time then surely it would raise some red flags. No, he had to continue fighting and get in close quarters despite how suicidal that might be, he had to keep up the act that he DIDN’T have an ace up his sleeve.
 
And luckily enough I never showed Genesis that move so he isn’t aware of what I’m capable of,[/i] he assured himself mentally as he unsheathed his blade and decided to mask the sound of unsheathing with his mouth.
 
”So I see my arrow is pointing directly in front of me now… you finally decide to face me instead of flying up in the air like a pansy? I must say I’m touched although that may not have been the most prudent action to take,” he would finish, his words masking the sound of unsheathing the blade on his back, ”At any rate whether we’re in the dark or not I’ll take both you and your damn clone on, all you’ve accomplished is giving me more faces to smash,” he added once again to mask the sound of his next move. Indeed, for as he spoke Felix would throw up his katana in the air a few times getting a feel for how long it took to descend into the palm of his hand. Once he had a rough estimate of how long it took, on the next toss he would pivot his body nailing the end of the katana with a powerful right hook. This in turn would send the katana flying toward the clone that was in front and while it would probably do little damage (assuming it was accurate if at all) it was more of a distraction than anything else.
 
Yes, distracting them is what he wanted to do for as the katana cut through the air and the sound of him hitting the butt of his sword rang in the arena, Felix would switch his mass back to twenty times less once again and take off. Thanks to Genesis clearing the arena of any walls, the freelancer didn’t have to worry about running into things anymore and assuming the clone didn’t have an arrow of its own to point at Felix (which was a sound assumption considering he didn’t have an arrow pointing to it), its reaction to Felix’s sudden movement would be a tad bit slower considering it had a katana coming at its general direction. Regardless, with his new found speed Felix had to also make sure of something before he attacked and thus would actually run past both Genesis and his clone on the right side. Testing the arrow’s accuracy out, he could see it rapidly turn as he went past the real Genesis and confirmed beyond a shadow of a doubt whom the real Genesis was. Indeed, for while Genesis’ plan to put the clone in front was smart, Felix wasn’t fool enough to think that Genesis WOULDN’T use his clone in every way he could. While he hadn’t known their exact positioning prior, he knew how to confirm it just as well and it cost him quite literally nothing to do. In fact, it put him in advantageous position for now he would circle around Genesis rapidly, getting to his left side where it would be harder for him to strike him with the rapier with anything but a stabbing attack.
 
Yet that was not all though for as Felix pivoted on his right foot that had stepped behind Genesis to get around to his left side, Mass Manipulator[/b] would deactivate and he would use his normal mass to carry out the combo he wished to lay upon Genesis, one that he couldn’t miss being this close. Indeed, he would use the momentum from pivoting on his right foot to carry him to Genesis’ left side while simultaneously curving his left arm upward to nail Genesis across the face with his elbow. This blow would be aimed for the nose approximately and whether it landed or not Felix would continue the combo, attempting to send a right knee into the lower part of Genesis’ spine. This one would have a x20 mass switch applied to it, intending to inflict major damage and help him catch up considering the damage he had taken himself thus far. Whether that blow landed or not as well, Felix would end both the combo and Mass Manipulator[/b] there, jumping off his planted left foot a few feet behind Genesis and falling into an orthodox Thai Stance. Staying any longer then he did could prove troublesome and even with the darkness Felix felt far more comfortable being defensive against two blades as opposed to going on the full on offensive. Plus it gave him a chance to catch his breath as he let his left arm fall limp although kept his right hand up to guard his face.
 
”Come at me bro or are you too scared to initiate an attack yourself? You’ve been running from me this whole time even though I’m unarmed and I think the audience would like to see their two time champion actually go on the offensive isn’t that right folks?!” he shouted, getting a roar of “yes” from those in the stands. As it would seem, the audience could see and hear what was going on despite the darkness and thus the freelancer felt compelled to give them a good show.
 
”So stand your ground and face me already! I want you to give me your best shot and I think the audience is getting tired of this game of cat and mouse!” he shouted once more, another roar erupting from the audience in response. While it was partially part of his plan to see if his taunt combined with the audience’s reaction would get the Ex-SOLIDER to face the freelancer properly, it was also his desire as a fighter (although mostly cause he was better suited for it).
 
”Plus, if you don’t beat me at my own game I don’t know what value victory will have to you if you win otherwise ne? It’d be like beating a baseball player at basketball, it would be nothing but a hollow victory. So do a favor for the audience and yourself and fight me right here, right now,” he added, a smirk curving against his lips as he readied himself for whatever Genesis did next, whether he took his challenge or continued running from him.
 
OOC: Earth Manipulator[/b] – 2 Post Cool Down
 
Mass Manipulator[/b] – 4 Switches used, 3 Post Cool Down START
 
Elemental Exhaustion[/b] – Felix can use Elemental Manipulators once again.

[Genesis Rhapsodos]

The dust was still settling from the effects of the double Holy spell crashing down into the arena floor. The rumbling of the attack, like a thunderstorm off in the distance, rung through Genesis' ears as he remained silent and motionless. The roaring of the crowd however overwrote the sound effects of the spell, but regardless, it seemed the dual attack had paid off, if only slightly. He didn't care what Felix thought of his fighting style for this round. He couldn't see anything. When ones sight was taken away, it felt... frightening. At least he could still hear things around him, still smell the battle taking place. If all three had been taken away, sight, smell and sound... this would have been a much, much different fight. The fact that not even the spells cast from both the SOLDIER 1st Class and his Clone could not break the Darkness... it was truly a hellish thing to experience. Even Felix had to admit that. No matter how much of a 'tough guy' act the red-head put on, not being able to see anything, at all, was terrifying. The Crimson SOLDIER was concerned however. If Hades were to bring back the Light as instantly as he introduced the Darkness, the sudden change could very easily blind both the SOLDIER and the Freelancer.

Once the dust had settled and the rumbling ceased, Genesis peered down and glances at the arrow at his feet. He didn't know if his Clone had it's own arrow, but up until now, the fake-SOLDIER was doing an admirable job of finding the red-head with it's spells. Only time would tell as to what would happen when melee combat was introduced. Felix's voice reached the Crimson SOLDIER's ears, confirming that the arrow before him was pointing at the red-head accurately. However, even with the taunts and insults sent his way, Genesis didn't move. He didn't speak. He was barely breathing. He was staying as silent as he possibly could, anything to help mask his position, though that arrow certainly wasn't helping. Having tucked his wing in tight behind his back, there was no worry of having the feathers rustle in the passing breeze either. All he had to do was sit tight and wait for Felix to make a move. He had the advantage of reach and range as well as another body altogether, yet the Clone's time was running out. He'd soon vanish and the fight would return to a one on one bout. That wasn't anything to be worried about though.

Something happened. A sound... it was masked within the cheering of the crowds though. Genesis was forced to turn his head a fraction, aiming a ear in Felix's direction to kiss what had happened. Though he had nothing to worry about, for the Clone, hearing the sound more clearly being closer, had side stepped to avoid the thrown blade. The singing of the weapon cutting through the air soon reached Genesis' ears, but the blade itself had not. Instead, the sound of metal slicing through leather did instead. Unfortunately for the Clone, it had side stepped into the path of Felix's sword, believing it had moved out of it's path. It wasn't a serious cut though, the katana cutting into the Clone's right shoulder before tumbling to the floor, metal blade clattering against the hard floor. Well, that was advantageous. Unless someone kicked it, the red-head wasn't going to find his weapon anytime soon. No wince nor cry of pain came from the Clone as he turned about, Rapier raised, wondering where Felix had moved too.

Genesis on the other hand, could see exactly where the red-head was moving for the arrow provided from the Lord of the Dead had quickly started to spin around him in circles, exactly the same as what Genesis himself did earlier to try and confuse his employee. Due to has fast the arrow was moving, it was clear Felix has used his Mass Manipulator once more. Oddly though, by time the arrow stopped moving and the sound of footsteps drew much closer, it sounded as it the Freelancer had dropped back out of his light-weight state. Never mind, that worked for the SOLDIER, for the sound of Felix's rippling shirt alerted him to the incoming elbow strike... or fist, or whatever was heading for his face. Instinctively, the SOLDIER leaned backwards, completely oblivious to the knee that was also heading his way. A loud crack echoed about the arena and the SOLDIER found himself staggering forwards before his feet gripped the arena floor, boots skidding the SOLDIER 1st Class to a halt as his heels dug down. Closing his eyes for a second, Genesis didn't move, nor alert the red-head to how much that knee had hurt. How foolish... the only reason Felix would reduce his speed would be to increase his mass, exactly what he had done to his legs.

Not bad...

[/i]
Mused the Crimson Champion as he stood up straight, turning about to face the sound of Felix's voice as he once again started to taunt him. His words were like the wind, and no matter what he said, Genesis was not going to let this punk get under his skin. Sure, he had strange abilities and was much too over-confident for his own good, but he was beneath the LOVELESS Quoter. As Felix shouted and the audience roared, the Clone took the chance to move, masking his approach towards the red-head due to having no arrow and using the cheers of the crowd to silence his movement. Darting in behind the Freelancer, the Clone ducked down once more as the audience roared before unleashing a powerful Twister Strike[/b], creating a vortex of air as the Clone span on the spot that would suck the red-head into the following, single Rapier strike. The blow was aimed at Felix's spine and would have such force behind it, that even if it were blocked, Felix would be blown towards Genesis himself.

If this went successfully, Genesis himself would then launch forth towards the approaching red-head, where he'd answer with a sword attack of his own. Dancing Sword[/b], a fast paced six sword strike combo. First came two furious diagonal slashes, hoping to smash Felix into the ground if he were still airborne from Twister Strike. Next came the three forward thrusts. If Felix was standing, then all three would be aimed at his chest and stomach, the biggest area of impact. If he were knocked down, then all three thrusts would be turned into stabs, all aimed for his back/chest. Finally, the leap and downward stab into the ground, creating a shock wave to erupt from the point of impact to once more knock the red-head away if struck. It wasn't ending their though. Flexing his knees, Genesis jumped backwards as far as he could, his Clone standing as far opposite him as it could. There, both the SOLDIER's thrust their Rapier's up into the air, creating two large runes to cover the air over the arena. Of course, none of this could be seen, but the sounds were as clear as any torch in the darkness. The gathering of energy took only a second before two Apocalypses[/b] engulfed the arena in two large explosions. The magical barriers shook and shuddered on all sides as both Apocalypses shook the Coliseum.

As before, while the dust was settling and the rumbling was fading, the Clone jumped and flew across the arena, landing down beside Genesis where they both brought up their Rapiers to chest height, pointing the blades out before themselves in case Felix decided to run at them and get himself impaled. His back still stung, a might blow indeed from the red-head, but he was going to have to do much more if he wanted to win this match.
Did that satisfy you, Felix?
The quoter of LOVELESS thought to himself as a smirk spread across his lips. Once more, he fell silent, not speaking, not moving. He waited and listened for the Freelancer to approach. He didn't care what Felix said. At the moment, he didn't care about the audience either. They couldn't see what he was doing, so all that mattered was the priority of taking down Felix as fast as possible.
[/blockquote]

Genesis Clone has 95% health remaining.


-=Cooldowns=-

Genesis Clone Level 3[/b] - 1 Post Duration Remaining. -- Genesis can spawn an identical Clone of himself. The clone can use all of Genesis' abilities other then summoning another Clone. Clone is just as strong, tough and fast as Genesis is. Cooldown starts when duration ends.

Holy[/b] - 4 Posts. -- Forming a ball of light blue flame within his hand, Genesis can unleash an unguided but very fast traveling ball of Holy energy that explodes in a violent, 20-foot wide blast of Holy power upon contact with enemy or scenery.

Dancing Sword[/b] - 2 Posts. -- A Rapier technique consisting of 6 sword strikes. Two diagonal slashes, three forward thrusts followed by a leap and ground stab. The final strike releases a shock wave to knock away nearby opponents.

Apocalypse[/b] - 3 Posts. -- Pointing his Rapier into the air, Genesis causes a massive red/crimson rune to appear within the air before it glows brightly. The rune explodes in a wave of energy, blasting anything within the radius of at least 20 feet.

Clone Holy[/b] - 4 Posts. -- Forming a ball of light blue flame within it's hand, the Clone can unleash an unguided but very fast traveling ball of Holy energy that explodes in a violent, 20-foot wide blast of Holy power upon contact with enemy or scenery.

Clone Twister Strike[/b] - 2 Posts. -- Crouching low to the ground, the Clone will suddenly jump upwards in a fast 360 degree spin, creating a vortex of air as it does so that will suck in nearby enemies. Following the leap is a powerful single sword strike, carrying enough force to knock away an enemy, even if blocked.

Clone Apocalypse[/b] - 3 Posts. -- Pointing its Rapier into the air, the Clone causes a massive red/crimson rune to appear within the air before it glows brightly. The rune explodes in a wave of energy, blasting anything within the radius of at least 20 feet.

[Felix]

Sadly, despite all the choice words the freelancer had used to taunt and egg on his opponent, Genesis didn’t take the bait although it was to be expected. Indeed, despite all the shit smack that he talked, even Felix himself knew that everything he had said was pretty much a load of crap. The much smarter choice here would be to stay silent as Genesis was doing and continue the strategy of hit and run, using ranged attacks with big area of effects to do damage. It was the safest way to achieve victory and while he had said it would be an empty victory to win in such a way, Felix knew all that mattered to him and Genesis was the result. However it was achieved didn’t matter so long as the job got done.

Plenty of warriors, scholars, wizards, and people from various walks of life often did things the right and honorable way and the majority of them died for it. Only a few were lucky enough to be written down in history books and it was often the ones who employed underhanded tactics and did everything necessary to achieve victory that lived and prospered. Furthermore, those very people that did live and prosper were the ones writing the history books so they could just as easily lie about their exploits. Felix lived his life much the same way, doing whatever was necessary to get the job done regardless of how others may look upon him so he certainly couldn’t be surprised Genesis would do the same. While the two weren’t very similar this was one thing Felix certainly believed they both shared the same viewpoint on. But now wasn’t the time for such things, no a more pressing matter was the sudden feeling of being pulled backwards.

Eyes widening despite the lack of sight, Felix’s body was pulled in toward the clone that had snuck behind him during his speech and a slash was sent toward his spine. Due to the nature of the ability though and the fact that his left arm was limp, his arm had been pulled back along with his body intercepting the blow and lessening the impact. Seeing as he didn’t mean to block it, there was still a bit of impact damage as the sword slammed his forearm against his back but it was a saving grace regardless. That amount of pain was minor compared to eating the double Holy earlier and while the sound of his Corundum Armor banging off Genesis’ clone’s rapier would reveal that he had some armor on now it was a small price to pay. Yet that wasn’t all, the technique actually blew him forward to with an immense force, the arrow at his feet getting bigger as he approached Genesis. That certainly did not bode well for the freelancer and it was most certainly meaning that Genesis was going to attack him with something intense. Yes, it was highly likely Genesis would use the technique he had used on him in the previous tournament and it was precisely one of the things Felix WANTED to happen.

Yes, despite all rationality Felix wanted to get hit by this powerful technique and he could confirm it was coming as the first diagonal strike hit his left shoulder. It hurt like all hell to get his flesh shredded like that but gritting his teeth and sucking it up, he managed to slip back just a tad to avoid getting his right shoulder cut into. Instead, a small cut was placed across his chest but it was nothing too serious in comparison to the other sword slash. Next would come the stabs and where Felix would begin to mount his counterattack against this otherwise powerful technique. Yes, the first stab would go to his chest, his earlier slip back making it just a bit out of range and poking at his chest lightly. It drew blood to be sure but more importantly it (and the previous strikes before) gave the blind Felix a frame to work for his opponent’s range. The next one would head toward the stomach and as the tip touched his stomach Felix’ counter would begin as he activated Wind Manipulator[/b], throwing the attack awry and to Felix’s right side. As that occurred he would also turn his own body to the left as he stepped into his opponent’s range and snapped his right hand down to grab Genesis’ wrist or hand. It didn’t matter which really, either grip would prevent the Ex-SOLIDER from pulling back his sword immediately or even leaving. No, what was more important was to finish this technique and the next step of it was a head-butt to the face. Once again, the accuracy wasn’t a pressing issue so long as the blow landed. For if it did, Genesis would suddenly feel his body be in a similar position to the one Felix had been put into but with a much stronger effect.

Yes, Wind Manipulator[/b] would immobilize Genesis for a moment and that moment was all that Felix needed to finish his combo. Thus the final step would come as Felix let go of Genesis’ right wrist/hand and took a step to the LOVELESS quoter’s left side. He would then pivot like he had done earlier with his previous attack but this time he would spin around behind Genesis before snaking his left arm around his neck and gripping his own right bicep for a rear naked choke. His grip would be tight and as an added benefit with this combo putting him behind Genesis the clone’s actions were limited. Indeed, if the clone came forward to attack Felix he could simply whip Genesis body around to face the clone using his sense of hearing to get its relative location. Then on the other hand, if it attempted any ranged AoE attacks it would have to hit Genesis as well which would be a plus. While Felix was damaged so was Genesis and such a gamble could be risky to take given the current situation. Whatever the case, Felix would lock the rear naked choke tightly and attempt to choke all the air out of Genesis’ lungs.

I might just not have to use my ace after all,[/i]… well that was assuming his combo worked as planned after all.

OOC: Wind Manipulator[/b] - By using the same principle behind Mass Manipulator, Felix can manipulate the element of wind to his will. When activated, his body will be covered in an armor of wind, causing physical attacks to be redirected, making them glance or miss completely. This wind armor will not provide any innate resistance to Wind Elemental attacks. As for his attacks, they will all be given Wind elemental damage on top of the physical damage Felix deals normally. If attacked directly, an air vacuum will be created afterwards that sucks them in, immobilizing the opponent for one turn (Immoblize). The status effect will not be applied if the opponent is attacked with his katana. This ability has a two post duration, a three post cool down, and CAN NOT be used for one turn after a previous elemental manipulator (this applies to all elemental manipulators). (Added as Unity reward, 8th of August 2011.)

[Inflicts Elemental Exhaustion[/b] on Felix]

Earth Manipulator[/b] – 1 Post Cool Down left

Mass Manipulator[/b] – 2 Post Cool Down Left

[Genesis Rhapsodos]

Genesis smirked as he felt his Rapier slice into the shoulder of his red-headed opponent. The slicing of steel cutting through flesh was not one of the most enjoyably experiences for the Crimson SOLDIER, the sound of blood dripping upon the hard packed arena floor. It was the sound of his opponent slowly loosing this battle and when put into that context, it was going to be in the auburn-haired man's advantage to cut and damage the red-head as much as possible. As it currently stood, Genesis was in a far better position, only having taken one attack from the Freelancer. Both Flash and Holy had managed to strike Felix and now combined with the first strike of Dancing Sword, it would only be a matter of time before he slowly started to get tired. Perhaps it would be smart to return to the skies and continue the aerial bombardment. The SOLDIER 1st Class had already felt his Flash materia regenerate itself. Both himself and the Clone were ready and capable of sending out several more fireballs to track and potentially damage the red-head. With the addition of the now wall-less arena, it wasn't sounding too bad an idea.

it would appear however that the employee of the SOLDIER 1st Class had ideas of his own. It was strange why Felix had decided to take the first blow of the Dancing Sword technique, but it was obvious now that he only done so to close the gap between boss and employee.
Smart thinking, but now you're hurt.
Genesis thought to himself, watching as the arrow pointing at Felix remained in front of him. As he continued to combo up the Dancing Sword attack, Genesis began to feel that something fishy was going on here. He realized that Felix had took the first strike so he could get closer, but WHY did he want to get closer? Of course, there was the fact that the Crimson SOLDIER's advantage of reach would be cut off, but what else? Felix did enjoy the martial art side of combat over using his weapon. Perhaps he was thinking of putting Genesis into a hold or a choke? Not surprising. One could call Genesis' tactic of taking to the skies and staying at range as being 'cheap' or 'dirty', but Felix was going to go down that same route with a choke or a hold. It was only because of this darkness blinding both the warriors as well as the audience, that no one could actually see what was happening.

The first of the three forwards stabs of Dancing Sword only just found it's target, as did the second, but soon, almost instantly after, did Genesis feel a hand land upon his outstretched right sword-arm. In reaction to this, the LOVELESS quoter threw up his left arm before his face, tucking his elbow into his chest and pressing his clenched fist upon his forehead, using his forearm as a 'shield' to block the choke that was inevitably coming. Strangely, a heavy impact instead struck his forearm, knocking the Crimson SOLDIER backwards a step. Sticking out a foot behind him and planting his foot firmly upon the floor, Genesis stopped himself from traveling any further backwards. Casting his brightly glowing gaze down to the floor, the Crimson SOLDIER noticed that Felix was on the move again. His grip upon the SOLDIER's wrist was released, but weirdly, Genesis found it rather difficult to move all of a sudden. As expected, the Freelancer went in for a choke, but due to Genesis' raised left arm, the technique was blocked and the SOLDIER chuckled to himself at the 'hug' his employee was giving him.

Instantly afterward, Genesis' Clone had already stepped into the picture, appearing within the blackness by it's Master's right hand side. With Rapier raised up parallel to the ground, held at chest height, the Clone span in a fast circle, flicking the long crimson blade out to it's left hand side before the sharp shard of steel cut through the air in a hard horizontal strike, aimed at Felix's back. If Felix didn't move away, this attack was bound to find it's mark. If he did though, the Clone would be sure it was going to stop before it struck it's Master, who still appeared Immobilized for the time being. Taking a jump backwards, the Clone lowered it's Rapier and instead raised it's single black wing. After covering itself with said wing for a moment, the Angel's Wing was swung out as if it were used as a weapon. Though instead of acting as a physical weapon, several, perhaps hundreds, of black feathers shot out from the wing and darted towards Felix, the feathers having possibly better tracking then the Flash spell did. Due to the feathers size and lack of weight, they made little to no sound and traveled swiftly towards their target.

Attacking in the form of Black Flurry, the Clone's feathers that homed in on the Freelancer would cause no physical harm, but it would only take one of the feathers to touch the Mercenary to sap a portion of his magical power out of him as well as inflicting the boy with Curse, disabling his Limit Breaks if he had any. Whatever happened next, the Clone cared not. It's only priority now was to get it's Master out of harms way before Felix had a chance to counter. It did this by jumping up to Genesis and taking hold of him. With a beat of it's wing, the Clone then vanished in a blink of an eye, not that you could see it, carrying it's Master up into the sky, heading higher and higher and flying as quickly as it could until the Clone suddenly vanished in a flash of light, it's time upon the battlefield expiring. Genesis himself smirked as he began to fall, feeling the wind blowing through his hair, rustling his leather attire and cutting through the feathers of his own wing. Flying was a gift, one he was granted due to the experiments performed upon him. On the other hand however, it made it less painful when thinking the wing was a gift from the Goddess herself, Minerva.

-=Cooldowns=-

Genesis Clone Level 3[/b] - Duration Expired. 6 Post cooldown.

Holy[/b] - 3 Posts. -- Forming a ball of light blue flame within his hand, Genesis can unleash an unguided but very fast traveling ball of Holy energy that explodes in a violent, 20-foot wide blast of Holy power upon contact with enemy or scenery.

Dancing Sword[/b] - 1 Posts. -- A Rapier technique consisting of 6 sword strikes. Two diagonal slashes, three forward thrusts followed by a leap and ground stab. The final strike releases a shock wave to knock away nearby opponents.

Apocalypse[/b] - 2 Posts. -- Pointing his Rapier into the air, Genesis causes a massive red/crimson rune to appear within the air before it glows brightly. The rune explodes in a wave of energy, blasting anything within the radius of at least 20 feet.

Clone Holy[/b] - 3 Posts. -- Forming a ball of light blue flame within it's hand, the Clone can unleash an unguided but very fast traveling ball of Holy energy that explodes in a violent, 20-foot wide blast of Holy power upon contact with enemy or scenery.

Clone Twister Strike[/b] - 1 Posts. -- Crouching low to the ground, the Clone will suddenly jump upwards in a fast 360 degree spin, creating a vortex of air as it does so that will suck in nearby enemies. Following the leap is a powerful single sword strike, carrying enough force to knock away an enemy, even if blocked.

Clone Apocalypse[/b] - 2 Posts. -- Pointing its Rapier into the air, the Clone causes a massive red/crimson rune to appear within the air before it glows brightly. The rune explodes in a wave of energy, blasting anything within the radius of at least 20 feet.

Clone Black Flurry[/b] - 4 Posts -- The Clone releases a flurry of feathers from it's wing that dart towards the opponent and sap them of their MP or magical strength, causing their spells to be less effective. No physical damage is inflicted but any enemy to be struck by the feathers will become Cursed, which disables the enemies ability to use their own Limit Breaks while the status affect is present. Curse lasts for 2 Posts.

[Felix]

OOC: Since your block would be completely ineffective against a choke I’m going to say it landed especially since the “hug” I gave you wouldn’t have happened as I said in my earlier post I “snaked” my arm around Genesis’ neck not “whipped it around like I was giving him a big ol’ hug”.
 
IC: While Genesis’ using his arm to shield his face from the head-butt was an effective way to deal with the start of Felix’s combo, it would be completely ineffective against his choke. Indeed what Genesis failed to realize was that between the arm he was “shielding” himself with and his neck, a large gap would remain for Felix to slip his hand in. Furthermore, Felix wasn’t an amateur when it came to fighting, if Genesis thought that he was going to whip his arm wide around to get to his neck he was sadly mistaken. No, the red-head had slid his hand across Genesis’ neck like a snake might slither around an attacker’s neck before constricting to increase the difficulty in guarding it especially since his body was incapable of movement at the time being. Thus, his choke would land with little to no difficulty, the freelancer locking it in tight and clinging to Genesis like white on rice. He wasn’t going to let go easily either, he needed to deal some major damage to Genesis to play catch up. Thus when his wing attempted to move itself it would prove rather stifled considering Felix pressing it to Genesis back as well as the Immobilize effect inflicted by Wind Manipulator[/b].
 
What was more important though was the final attack of Genesis’ clone, the annoying bugger attempting to shoot one last ranged attack. Yet again though this was a mistake on Genesis’ part for Felix still had Wind Manipulator[/b] active and even though the attack was silent, when the wind around him blew fiercely to prevent him from taking damage it was obvious what was going on. That being noted, Felix would attempt to whip Genesis around to face where the attack was coming from, allowing the LOVELESS quoter to eat his own attack. How effective that would be was up to debate but regardless Felix wouldn’t end this assault there not by long shot. No, his grip would tighten even more as he attempted to strangle the Ex-SOLIDER, not allowing any remorse to make him hesitate. He didn’t have time to hesitate, if he balked for even a second it could easily mean his loss and that was something he wouldn’t allow. He would never lose again due to his own mistakes, he would never lose again due to his own flaws, and he would never lose again due to his shortcomings. He would only accept defeat in the form of an opponent who truly was stronger than him and completely overpowered him, nothing more nothing less. This would not be a repeat of their last fight where the red-head had lacked the resolve to be as brutal as he had to be to win.

And so I’m not letting you being my boss get in the way of me winning this fight![/i] he thought as he would then shift his lower body back to truly drive home his desire to win. Upon shifting his lower body, Felix would raise his right knee and attempt to strike Genesis in the spine where he had hit him earlier once again. With Wind Manipulator[/b] still active this would prove incredibly painful and would refresh the Immobilize effect if it landed successfully. To increase the chances of that, Felix wouldn’t send just one knee but three knees altogether, alternating between his legs as one would normally do. Needless to say, Felix wouldn’t be loosening his grip either whilst doing this as performing a choke and knee strikes to the back were a rather easy task. It was something he trained and any real martial artist would train to do efficiently and properly when the situation called for it. If Genesis would be able to defend against this vicious onslaught though utilizing his own training was another thing entirely but either way Felix was feeling a lot more assured of victory with each second.
 
Although I won’t get cocky and lose my focus, I’m not giving you a moment’s reprieve Genesis,[/i] he would muse as Wind Manipulator’s[/b] effect expired.
 
OOC: Wind Manipulator[/b] – Duration over as of this post, 3 post CD START.
 
Earth Manipulator[/b] – Cool Down over! Useable next post!
 
Mass Manipulator[/b] – 1 Post Cool Down left.

[Hades]

-Round three is now over! Stay tuned for the results show!-