Chapter 324: Request and Duel
The Elder's expression wavered, "Great Hero. . . I'm afraid that many of our warriors have gone off to battle! Additionally I cannot lend you one."
The Hero shook his head, "I am not asking you to lend me a warrior, I am asking if any warriors wish to come along with me."
Someone's voice from the crowd questioned, "Is that not the same thing?"
The Hero replied with a simplistic answer, "I'm sure those who I am looking for understand."
Wrock felt like an opportunity had just presented itself. An opportunity to branch off from his Clan and explore. A chance to fight new opponents and grow. As he was about to step forward to offer, his friend grabbed him by the shoulder. Looking back for answers Wrock only saw his friend gesture towards the Elder.
The Elder's face had unwillingness written all over it. This was obvious to those of the Clan, and silenced the ones who were about to step forward.
The Hero seemed to notice this as well, "Is the idea of letting one of your people go so unappealing?"
"You must understand my position."
"That was not my question."
The Clan winced at the Elder's expression. No one would dare speak up like that to an Elder.
Wrock grit his teeth, at this rate his opportunity would slip from his grasp. He needed to take some, drastic measures to assure his chance.
He pushed forward through the crowd, "I have a question!"
The Elder's gaze snapped to Wrock, but Wrock only winked before turning to the Hero, "You come requesting aid, but are you sure you hold the qualifications to make such a request?"
With an interested gaze the Hero responded, "So what is your suggestion?"
"Duel me, I am among the few Elite that remain at our Clan. If you can prove to me that you hold the strength required, then I'm sure Elder wouldn't mind letting a volunteer go."
The Elder caught onto Wrock's intentions, "I agree, although I had not wanted to speak out my thoughts like so. Forgive us, but we hear only stories of your adventures and achievements."
A gust of wind passed through the area, ruffling the leaves of the nearby trees. The Hero nodded slightly, "Very well, I accept your duel. Is there someplace you would like to do this?"
Wrock looked back to the Elder. They shook their head and raised their arms, "What better place than here?! Many of our Clan stand witness. I do ask you don't destroy any of our buildings however."
The Hero drew their sword, it was a basic weapon. A standard steel hand-and-a-half one, which surprised many of the Clan. They had expected to see a legendary sword, one fit for a hero.
They carefully dragged their hand across the blade, murmuring some words underneath their breath. They then lifted it into a basic stance, "I have dulled the edges of my sword, but the injuries it can cause will not be light."
Wrock rolled his shoulders, "I can appreciate that much. Then we shall fight at Elder's signal!"
Silence spread at the Clan began to distance themselves, giving room for the duel. The Elder waited for only a moment before shouting, "Begin!"
Wrock charged forward, throwing a punch at incredible speeds towards the Hero's face. His confidence dimmed a little when his fist made contact only with the flat side of the sword.
The Hero complimented, "You pack a punch."
Returning the compliment Wrock pushed himself back, "You can take one!"
The two began to exchange blows neither side having an obvious advantage.
After a little longer than a minute, Wrock began to see the flaws in the Hero's combat. Soon enough he began to take advantage of these flaws, gaining an upper hand. However, contrary to his expectations, the Hero rapidly adapted to his exploits. Suddenly changing his style of fighting, throwing Wrock off.
After a few more exchanges Wrock saw the flaws again, and the process repeated. It dumbfounded him, some of the Elite had adjusted to his ability to find their flaws, but not to this degree!
Soon enough the Hero returned to his ordinary fighting style, and Wrock felt like this was his chance. Yet he was once again stunned to see that the flaws he had spotted before were no where to be found.
'This guy, he adapted whilst changing fighting styles?!'
The tip of the sword clipped Wrock's jaw and he was knocked unconscious. Due to his training he regained his consciousness within a second, but he knew he lost the battle.
The Hero stood for a moment, catching their breath. Sheathing their sword they held out a hand, "That was incredible, I must ask you, will you join my party?"
Wrock was also catching his breath, "You're crazy! What kind of monster- No, I was outmatched."
Standing to his feet he dusted off his clothes, "I certainly don't wish to pass up this option, if you will have me I am more than willing to come along."
The Hero smiled and grasped his hand, "Then good to have you aboard. The name's Akiol."
"Wrock."
The Elder had fury boil beneath their skin, but maintained their composure, "I see that Wrock had made his decision. I have no qualms, do take care of him."
The Clan began to rush towards Wrock, congratulating him and more. That night the Clan had a feast, celebrating Wrock's decision and recruitment.
-><-
The two clashed, Spirit and Aura rampaging throughout the place. The ground became torn, the surroundings turning into pieces. Wrock jumped up and spun, embers of a light blue flame trailed behind his foot. Kicking with his heel towards Akiol's face.
For a split moment Akiol could see a light blue Phoenix aiming its talons. Whenever Wrock used Spirit anyone who saw him would occasionally catch this sight. Akiol leaned back and the kick passed by harmlessly. With a quick retaliation he swung diagonally, a wave of Aura crashing forth.
Wrock crossed his arms and Spirit reacted accordingly. A pair of wings appeared in front of him made of the same blue flame.
{Spirit of the Phoenix: Wings' Embrace}!
Blocking the blow knocked Wrock higher into the sky. He then spread out his arms and swung them forward, his hands letting out a powerful clap.
{Spirit of the Phoenix: Feather Volley}!
Feathers made of Spirit shot forward, barraging the area Akiol was in. Defending himself with dodges and deflects, Akiol pushed forward.
Wrock landed and gathered Spirit around his fist. It then ignited into a light blue flame. Akiol responded in kind, the silver Aura gathering around Stars.
The two charged straight at each other. Wrock threw his fist forward and Akiol swung vertically-!
BOOM-!!
Spirit and Aura ignited and exploded, creating a wonderful blossom of blue and silver.
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone