NationStates Jolt Archive

With the growing popularity of Lotta di Spada, or dueling, in Nueve Italia, the nation has decided to host a competition for the best duelists in the world. To all interested in participating, please report that you are competing within the week and come to the capital of Nueve Italia, Cítta diCielo. The rules of this competition are as follows:

1.) These will be one-on-one fights, with the loser being eliminated until the last two duelists will fight in the championship.

2.) A wooden blade, similar to that of the kendo shinai, will be issued to each fighter for the competition, provided if they don't have their own.

3.) A fight is to three points. A point is gained by making contact with your opponent with your weapon on any part of their body.

4.) Padded armor will be issued to protect a fighter's chest, hands, shins, and head.

5.) The final winner of the championship duel will recieve a reward of 1,000,000 contantis (the current exchange rate of a contanti to a standard USD is 1=2.25) and a hand-forged blade from here in Nueve Italia, Il Spada di Dio

For all willing to come and show off their fighting skills, this competition is now officially open. With your response to compete, please supply your name, age, and nationallity, as well as whatever else you'd like to add. Let the tournament begin. . .

Would the competitors be permitted to use thier own training blades, provided they are made so they are non-lethal/overly dangerous?

OOC: Hey! Long time no see, bud! :D lol

IC: The Plutonian President would like come over and observe the duels from the audience. Is this all right?

OOC: Damn man, I haven't heard from you in ages!

Yes Theao, competitors are allowed to use their own non-lethal weapons, provided that they are checked before hand.

~~~~~

The Plutonian President is more than welcome to come and watch the competition. Please alert us when he is on his way, and an Honor Guard will escort his transport into the capital.

Emperor Giovanni Dominicio Gori I

Name: Victor Gort
Age: 21
Nationality: Theao
Height: 5'7"
Any other information provided on request.
Sword: Curved Katana

Representing Nueve Italia will be the Emperor's son.

Name: Antonio Orsini Gori
Age: 20
Height: 5'5"
Nationality: Nueve Italian
Sword: Vestaglies Neres' Sabre, training model

The Empire of Asurian will send it's own Emperor to fight in the duels.

Name: Ugo Draconiano della Penombra
Age:24
Height: 191cm's
Nationality: Asurian
Style:Late 15th century german school of fencing and also includes Fior dei duelatori, with combination of the French and Spaniard styles
Weapon:1 and a half handed Flamberg style bladed sword wood replica of course.

The Imperial Republic offers to provide transportation for any fighters wishing to participate, however, this is up to the competitors themselves whether or not to accept it.

The Imperial Republic offers to provide transportation for any fighters wishing to participate, however, this is up to the competitors themselves whether or not to accept it.
The Empire of Asuryan kindly refuses the offer as it will arrive with it's own transports

Victor shall use your shuttle service.

ooc: are we allowed more than one competitor?

OOC: Damn man, I haven't heard from you in ages!

Yes Theao, competitors are allowed to use their own non-lethal weapons, provided that they are checked before hand.

~~~~~

The Plutonian President is more than welcome to come and watch the competition. Please alert us when he is on his way, and an Honor Guard will escort his transport into the capital.

Emperor Giovanni Dominicio Gori I
OOC: Yah, it's been a while. ;)

IC: Alrighty. Let us know when the competitions shall begin, and the President shall depart for Earth to observe the duels.

ooc: are we allowed more than one competitor?

Of course, the more fighters, the better.

Nicoli Denak
Age: 23
Nationality: Theao
Height: 5'4"
Any other information provided on request.
Sword: Sabre

Kera Cona
Age: 19
Nationality: Theao
Height: 5'6"
Any other information provided on request.
Sword: two Tessen (combat fans) if permitted, otherwise a Ninjato
Both will be using the shuttle service.

Name: Dakshesh Patel
Age: 40 years
Nationality: Roman Hindu
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 190lbs
Sword: Roman Gladius

All manners of bladed weapons are permitted (swords, spears, poleblades, axes, etc.) as long as they are non-lethal, so Kera's war fans will be fine in the arena.

Roman Republic, would you be interested in using our transport service to allow your fighter's travel here to go smoothly?

All manners of bladed weapons are permitted (swords, spears, poleblades, axes, etc.) as long as they are non-lethal, so Kera's war fans will be fine in the arena.

Roman Republic, would you be interested in using our transport service to allow your fighter's travel here to go smoothly?

Sure. I'll join your service. I'll have the Gladius be a wooden sword.

Name: His Royal Highness, Prince William of Winchester
Age: 23
Nationality: Newtdonian
Height: 6'2 Feet
Weight:184lbs
Weapon: 40in Katana (or Bokken if you prefer)

Rekkur Vash
23 Standard Years old
Nargopian
6'1"
180 lbs.
Dual Scimitars (http://www.swords-n-stuff.com/swords/la/b-015.jpg) (wood replicas)

bump for sign-ups

Question: is this going to be purely RP, or are you using a scorinator, or scorinating with an RP bonus?

this is all purely RP Nargopia, but we still need a few more competitors before we can start the actual tournament.

bump for the night

*bump*age

(come on people. . .)

I'll add another one.

Darrick Gran
27 Standard Years old
Nargopian
6'7"
230 lbs
Great Sword (http://www.swords-n-stuff.com/swords/br/cs-88wgs.jpg) (wood replica)

Name: Derek Holstaff
Age: 23
Height: 6.2ft
Weight: 196 lbs
Swords: Wields Twin Wooden Rapiers

alright, Nueve Italia will have one more duelist, and then I believe we should be ready to go, does anyone disagree?

Name: Micci Gratziano
Age: 17
Nationality: Nueve Italian
Height: 5'4"
Weapon: Quaterstaff

The True Way of Alan, will your competitor be using our transport service? Or will any of the other duelists of Nargopia?

We thank you for your offer of transportation, and choose to accept it.

~ At The Arena in the middle of Cítta diCielo, Emperor Gori oversaw the final preparations for the games to be held here shortly. As since everything was going smoothly, he had dispatched several business jets into the world to bring the various competitors to here, the Capital of Nueve Italia, for a chance at fame, honor, and glory.

Retiring to his office, he sent a message to his long-time ally, the Plutonian Empire, inviting the President to come and enjoy the games. He had expressed the desire to watch the competition as well, and it would be good to notify him in advance. The communication was rather short, but it got the point across. Sending it away, Emperor Giovanni Gori turned towards the window behind him and gazed down at the city below. In several days' time, this would be the busiest center in the country. . .~

In the Name of the Emperor of Xeraph, his Champion Swordsman, Kran'ak, wishes to join this illustrious band of Warriors in this competition.
Age: 28
Height: 5'10
Nationality: Black Katana
Weapons: 38" Katana

If it is alright, we will TransBeam Kran'ak to the arena.

respectfully,

Vlad, Prince of the Empire, Regent of The Grey Phoenix, in the Name of the Emperor.

Fruit and Flower Mountain humbly requests the opportunity to send a contestant, a native of our country.

Name: Capt. Min Xiao
Gender: Male
Age: 38
Build: 5'6" 180 lbs
Style: Hung Gar Kung Fu, Bagau, Quigong
Weapon: two wooden butterfly swords (18")

OOC: I'm obviously a new member and I wish to tread carefully. This sounds really fun, but I am a little worried about how this is going work - isn't there danger of it descending into a near endless series of counters, the common fault of so many martial arts (including fencing) discussions?
Ah, I'm sure you are all good enough roleplayers to avoid that sort of thing.
Could my representative go in one of the last sets so that I can get a feel for it?

bump

OOC: Sure thing FruitAndFlowerMountain, we'll hold a few challenges before hand, just telegram me when you want a match.

IC: Two more messages had come concerning the Arena today, and as Emperor Gori checked them, he saw that one was from Empire of Xeraph, who was currently in battle alongside Nueve Italian forces against Terronian.

" Well," he thought aloud, " It should be interesting to see what a Xeraph makes of a Nueve Italian in combat. . ."

~~~~~

To: The Nation of Xeraph
From: The Office of Emperor Giovanni Dominicio Gori I
Re: Tournament

The Arena gladly welcomes the swordsman, Kran'ak, to the competition. We understand that he will be arriving at Cítta diCielo by his own methods, and are looking forward to seeing his fighting skills.

~~~~~

To: The Nation of FruitAndFlowerMountain
From: The Office of Emperor Giovanni Dominicio Gori I
Re: Tournament

Captain Min Xiao is most welcome to the Arena, but we are curious as to how he is arriving. The Imperial Republic offers its own transportation service to bring the Captain and any who might want to spectate to our fair Capital, if you so choose.

The captain would be delighted to accept your offer of transportation as would a number of FFM spectators.

The HETWA would be honored to participate in the tourny and will accept the offer of transportation.

bump

Retiring to his office, he sent a message to his long-time ally, the Plutonian Empire, inviting the President to come and enjoy the games. He had expressed the desire to watch the competition as well, and it would be good to notify him in advance. The communication was rather short, but it got the point across. Sending it away, Emperor Giovanni Gori turned towards the window behind him and gazed down at the city below. In several days' time, this would be the busiest center in the country. . .~
**Gene got the message and left immedieately for Earth, which he hasn't personally went to since that fateful war with the Yuri, on his Presidential PlutoCon, which was recently upgraded with enhancements to the empire's chronoscepter technology.**

**8 hours later, he arrived at the destination, and booked a hotel suite for the stay**

OOC: Any more room?

Name: Satoru Kitazawa
Age: 32
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 177 lbs
Disciplines: Battojutsu, Kenjutsu, Shotokan

Will use his own Bokkan and Bogu.

Looking forward to this RP!

OOC: Always more room
_____

To: Japanese Antartica
From: The Office of Emperor Giovanni Dominicio Gori I
Re: Tournament

Satoru Kitazawa is most welcome to participate in this competition of skill and honor. If he would like, a transport can be arranged to pick him up so as to make his flight to Nueve Italia an easier task.

Name: Ianus
Age: 48
Nationality: Modikambian

I myself will join this competition as I am the strongest fighter in Modikambia, maybe not in the entire galaxy, but that has yet to be decided.

Sincerely,
Ianus
Holy Leader of Modikambia
Minister of Immigration, British Overseas Territory

(I will use my own transportation)

To: Modikambia
From: The Office of Emperor Giovanni Dominicio Gori I
Re: Tournament

Ianus, if you truly are the strongest fighter in your lands, then your fame in the Arena will truly be legendary if you succeed. You are welcome to arrive as you please, but first, will you be bringing a weapon of your own, or will the Arena provide one for you?
_____

~ Upon hearing that the Plutonian President had arrived in Cítta diCielo, Emperor Giovanni Gori decided that a Hotel in the capital city of his fair country was no place for a trusted friend, especially the head of another nation, to stay. Within a few minutes time, a sleek, black Nueve Italian automobile, similar to some of the classier Mercedes models, was on its way to pick up President Eugene Stauffer. At the same moment, several twin-engined leisure aircraft touched down across the world to pick up the many competitors that would entertain the masses of the world, and in doing so, become a legend that would stand the test of time. . .~

The Theocracy of Tichang would like to send a competitor to this noble competition.
Name: Creolis Xastra
Height: 5' 11"
Weight: 169 lbs
Weapon: Rapier

The Prime Minister of Mondoth James Stanwin regrets that this tournament falls during the MAP barbeque/member party festival thing and that he will not be able to join, In stead he wishes to know wheter the event will be televised or whether a Mondothian Television crew will be allowed to film the tournament.

Also Mondoth proudly sends the fighters to the tournament, they will be transported in style on a Mondoth Air VC-225 aircraft in Digintary class (Higher even than First class)

The Fighters are:

Name: John Drake
Age: 45
Height: 5'11
Weight: 95.25 kilos
Weapon: Quarter Staff

Name: Sarah Juules
Age: 26
Height: 5'6
Weight: 68.03 kilos
Weapon: Katana (Will provide her own non lethal weapon)

Both are the best Mondoth has to offer and the country will watch their performance with great hope for their victory.

Is this a full contact match or weapons only?
Full contact: can use any part of the body including weapon
Weapons only: can only use weapons for combat

To: The Office of Emperor Giovanni Dominicio Gori I
From: Seiran Setsu-ryu Koryu Budo School

Thank you for accepting our teacher to this competition. Kitazawa-sensei will provide his own transportation.

~ Upon hearing that the Plutonian President had arrived in Cítta diCielo, Emperor Giovanni Gori decided that a Hotel in the capital city of his fair country was no place for a trusted friend, especially the head of another nation, to stay. Within a few minutes time, a sleek, black Nueve Italian automobile, similar to some of the classier Mercedes models, was on its way to pick up President Eugene Stauffer.
*The Plutonian President graciously accepted the ride to a better stay, and checked out of the hotel*

OOC: This is a full-contact sport, however, points are only given for contact made with a weapon. A well timed kick to the stomach might make getting that point an easier task though. . .
_____

To: The Theocracy of Tichang
From: The Office of Emperor Giovanni Dominicio Gori I
Re: Tournament

The noble Creolis Xastra is more than welcome to share in the honor of competing in the Arena. We of Nueve Italia are more than happy to send a plane to bring Creolis to Cítta diCielo.
_____

To: The Nation of Mondoth
From: The Office of Emperor Giovanni Dominicio Gori I
Re: Tournament

Not since the Nueve Italian Civil War have we had contact with the noble nation of Mondoth, and we truly do regret that. However, your offer to send two more fighters to the Arena is most welcome. We recognize that they have their own transportation into the area, and if they'd like, an Honor Guard can be sent to escort the plane into Cítta diCielo, in recognition of those that fought for freedom, justice, and equality. Also, this Tournament will be broadcasted on the Nueve Italian International Broadcast (NIIB) Channel for all to view, however, if you'd like, it can be arranged for a special film crew from Mondoth to be able to make their own live recording of the events.

We also regret our lack of contact and maybe when the current slate is cleared of political appointments a Meeting can be arranged to discuss the possibilty of future alliance, Since the war we have discovered and developed more of our nations natural resources including a sizeable oil deposit.


Our fighter graciously accept the offer of an honor guard, to further memorialize those who gave their lives in that war Mondoth Air has reported that it will repaint the aircraft in a suitable blend of the colors of those involved and the Veterans of Mondothian wars has decided to enclose the names of those lost in that war.

A special television crew will not be necesary, I'm sure that NIIB can be picked up in Mondoth and the events taped for the return of James Stanwin from his current engagement, if it is acceptable the footage from NIIB will be used with both on site and local comentary by the Mondoth News Network (MNN)

{Secret Location: EHAV International Inc. Mercenary Barracks, Dorm Room 13}

In her shared dorm with fellow EHAV mercenary Kami, Laura shouts out from her computer. "Ur ur! Muug, Nueve Italia ec ryjehk cusa cund uv cfuntcsyh creb duinho!"

Kami was currently in the midst of a nice warm bubble bath. "Ugyo, kuut vun dras." She called back, a little more then disinterested.

"E's kuhhy ahdan. Oui fyhd du dyk ymuhk?" Laura asked, hopefully.

"... E cahca E fueh'd pa kaddehk byet vun drec..." Came Kami's less then thrilled reply.

"Ur, bmayca bnaddo bmayca! Khivycin ec cu timm frah E's hud uid aqbmunehk dra funmt!" Laura near pleaded with her roomie...

After a long moment of silence, Kami finally spoke in a resigned tone.".. VEHA! E'mm ku."

Grinning widely, Laura flashes Kami a thumbs up, even though the other catgirl couldn't see it. "Dryhgc! E's cek-" Her cheerful reply is cut short, as Kami enters the main bedroom of their dorm, covered only in a white towel wrapped around her body. another in her hair.

"Pid, uh uha luhteldeuh. Leo lyh dyk ymuhk duu..." She delivered her ultimateum, and the fact she did so while only wearing a towel did much to show how serious she was about it.

Larua sneered. "Blah! E tuh'd lyna vun Leo silr..." She paused for a second, "Pid, E kiacc. Cina. So dnayd."

Smirking, Kami returned to the bathroom to finish dressing, whilst Laura went about applying both herself and Leo JanaKin for the tournament.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~
((OOC: Secret IC, above this ^^ Line.))

From: Laura Sinclair (LaSinner@EHAV.Mercs.Gnu)
To: Emperor Giovanni Dominicio Gori I
Subject: Sword Fighting Tourny

Hello. I am Laura Sinclair, an EHAV Mercenary. Not too sure if you're aware, but the EHAV Group is how Gnufasurians such as myself get to explore the world. Normally, an EHAV Contract Seeker would contact you first, if you needed a Mercenary or two for some assignment or what have you. But, this is different.
You see, at the moment, I've been in the midst of a hiring slump. No one seems to be hiring, or if they are, the Contract Seekers can't find them. But, that does give me plenty of free time on my hands.
Er... I'm rambling. =^_^;= I guess this is why Contract Seekers do the primary contact work. Hee hee hee.
Anyways... At my own expense, I am willing to enter your tournament for sword fighting, as I do happen to be quite the swordsman... Er, or would it be swordswoman? At any rate, I've trained with and regularly use a Bronze shortsword, but it's rare that I actually get to test my mettle. This'll be the best way too.
Also, I got another Mercenary friend, by the name of Leo JanaKin, who happens to be a master of the Claw of the Goddess fighting style. I'm more then sure his wristblades can be swapped out with training models. He said he'd be interested in going too.
And, lastly, a second friend of mine, Kami Lynx, is interested in going as a spectator and supportor for me. Er... Before you ask, I know a few months ago, if you paid attention to international news much, someone accused Kami Lynx of using too much plastic explosives, thusly causing a lot of needless collateral damage, for the job she was supplied with, but the EHAV lawyers managed to prove it was just the client trying to get out of his end of the contract. Seemed he didn't want to pay Kami the rest of the agreed upon sum. But no need to worry, I'll personally make sure Kami doesn't have a single block of C4 on her when we leave for your nation, okay?
Er... I've gone and rambled again. Sorry. Hee hee. Umh, yeah. I guess that's all. Oh, wait! Is there a fee to enter? Knowing that before hand is a lot easier. Thanks!
May you walk on warm sands!

~Laura Sinclair
EHAV International! Enriching Your Life!

((OOC@: Please refer to posts number 3 and 4 of my Factbook (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=405876) for Laura, Kami, and Leo's bio. It has their age, and other information as well. Thanks. :D))

To: LaSinner@EHAV.Mercs.Gnu
From: Cpt. Antonio Orsini Gori
Re: Tournament

As you may have already figured out, this is not the Emperor replying to your message. Unfortunately, at the moment he is overwhelmed with work and is unable to respond. I am his son, Antonio Gori, and a fellow competitor in the Arena. About your entering into the Tournament, you and your companions are most welcome to our nation to participate or spectate, which ever they prefer. To answer your question, there is no fee to enter, however, you will have to get to our nation, Nueve Italia. A transport can be arranged to bring you to the capital city, Cítta diCielo, where the duels will be held.

. . .A merc, eh? Should be interesting to see what you and this Leo can do. Looking forward to sparring with you when you arrive.

SEND
_____

Looking up from the computer screen, Antonio made his way down to the grand hall, where the Plutonian president had arrived. At least it had to be him: No other VIPs were schedueled to arrive today. Making his way over, he introduced himself.

" Welcome to our fair nation, Mr. President. My name is Antonio Gori, Captain in the NIRAG and son of the Emperor, whom you already know."

Tony held out his hand to the leader of an ally that he respected and revered greatly, ever since his service in the war awhile back.~
_____

OOC: As of now, there is a deadlock on the competition. No more fighters can enter, although spectators are more than welcome to the event.

Looking up from the computer screen, Antonio made his way down to the grand hall, where the Plutonian president had arrived. At least it had to be him: No other VIPs were schedueled to arrive today. Making his way over, he introduced himself.

" Welcome to our fair nation, Mr. President. My name is Antonio Gori, Captain in the NIRAG and son of the Emperor, whom you already know."

Tony held out his hand to the leader of an ally that he respected and revered greatly, ever since his service in the war awhile back.~
Of course. Greetings, Mr. Gori. We are grateful for your invitation.

*Gene also extends his hand, and they shake hands*

It's been a long time since our Empires crossed paths, Sir Gori. How have things been?

OOC: Everyone knows that those nations that requested transports, well, they arrived, right? We're awaiting for the contestants to take them back to Nueve Italia.
_____

~Leading the President from the doorway of the palace further inside, the young Gori answered Euguene's question while sliding back to walk beside him.

" Well, the situation in our country has greatly improved since the Civil War, the last time we had any major contact with your Empire. In fact, our nation is actually no longer an empire. We are now the Holy Imperial Republic of Nueve Italia. We have a popular elected Senate that is headed by my father, the Emperor. Our economy has been skyrocketing, and our rebuilding plan is nearing completion. We also have plans for a multi-national cemetary that is nearing its final stages in memory of those that fought and died here, including the men and woman of your own Empire, whom we still cannot thank enough. As for life around here, it's been kind of slow lately. All work, no excitement. . .I'm guessing that's why the Tournament is being held; we all need a little entertainment and relaxation, which the games will provide."

Entering a massive room dominated by a grand staircase that encompassed the center of the area, Tony stopped for a moment and let the President have a look around.

" So, did you come alone, or are there other Plutonians that have arrived to watch the games?"

The three Theao competitors boarded the transport and settled in for the flight.

ooc: I'd assumed that the transport was considered already done, and that everybody was there already.

OOC: Oh. .. well, then for RP sakes and purposes, all competitors have arrived then, just to make things go a little easier

{Secret Location: EHAV Private Use Airstrip}

"Oooookay!" Laura spun on her heels, facig her intrepid group of fellow Mercenaries, speaking in English to get used to the feel of the language again. She wore her usually outfit, a pair of cut demin jean shorts missing the front button so the top was perpetually flayed open, a tattered light blue tank top, and her black leather cat collar. Her short blue hair was messy as it's always been, a sign of her carefree personality. Attached to her wait via an otherwise useless black leather belt was her Bronze shortsword, the handle wrapped with cloth, forming a sort of makeshift grip.

"Since this ISN'T an offically backed mission, we can't use the Cargo Carrier like I had hoped. BUT! After doing some quick asking around, I managed to find someone who'll fly us to Nueve Italia for next to nothing..."

"And... That price is?" Leo asked. Since this isn't an official mission, Leo JanaKin didn't choose to wear his body armor, instead opting for a casual blue demin jeans with white t-shirt, covered by a rugged brown leather jacket. His brown hair was slicked back, glossy from the affects of gel. Completeing the whole 'street bad boy' look was a pair of sleek black wrap-around shades.

Laura flashed him a sheepish grin. "Only 35 thousand Lnated."

Leo snorted. "Kami, how much did you get paid for your last mission?"

Kami shook her head. "A total of 18 thousand Lnateds, and all that's going into my saving account."

Leo frowns, heaving a heavy sign. "Guess that means I gotta foot the bill?"

Laura saunters up to Leo, folding her hands in front of her and putting on her cutest begging face, "Please oh please pay our way! If I win, I'll give you all the winnings!"

Leo chuckled. "Well, chances are I'm going to be the winner." He said, not boasting. "But, yeah. I'll pay our way."

With a grin, Laura leads them to the the hangar where the pilot's waiting, and they make way to Nueve Italia for the contest...


~~~~~~~~~~~
The tiny personal jet (Think Leer) lands on the Neuve Italia airstrip, having already given it's information to the air traffic controller and recieving permission to land.

The small group disembarks, while the pilot remains with his jet. Laura goes up to the nearest official looking person within the airport. "Hi. We're competitors from Gnufasur for the Swordsmanship contest." She double tapped her sword. "Know where we're supposed to go to sign up?"

OOC: Still time to join?

Name: Cinto Ruma
Age:25
Wieght:117 lbs.
Hieght: 5 foot 10 inches
Weapon: blunted 4 ft. glunda(sword)

Name:Gias Sulla
Age:32
Wiegth:121 lbs. 4 oz.
Hieght:
Weapon:blunted 8 ft. ward( Spear)
Both these competitors would like the provided transportation.

Name: Ian Jenson
Age: 24
Weight: 156 lbs.
Height: 6' 2"
Weapon: A wooden saber, blunted

Is it also alright if Dictator Scharfetter,Secretary of Foreign Affairs Rangel, and, also best friend of the competetor, Secretary of Crime and Punishment Santoro also come to enjoy the event?

the 2 competitors practiced against several machanical dummies at once then fought each other.They wait for the compitition to begin.If they win they will bring honor to themselves, thier trainers, Colonoria,They're weapons, & the tournament.

OOC: to those who just joined:

OOC: As of now, there is a deadlock on the competition. No more fighters can enter, although spectators are more than welcome to the event.

The VC-225 was a graceful aircraft, it had been designed for it, the engines were molded to the fuselage giving the Transport a sleek almost fighter like appearence, this Particular VC-225 was painted with all the flags of the Nations that had Participated on the Nueve Italian Governments side of the long past Nueve Italian civil war. The aircraft did not carry many passengers, most of the cabin space taken up by the opulent Digintary section which included a pair of Jacuzi's, a pair of executive style restrooms and reclining seats with foot rests and enough room that they could be comfortably used without the person behind becoming cramped or at all uncomfortable. Sarah was seated upright and was wearing traditional Robes signifying her sword fighting rank as the highest in Mondoth. John sat fully reclined wearing a bathrobe and swiming trunks after having just gotten out of one of the Jacuzi's. Just before landing he made use of the spacius restroom facilities and changed into his customary Business suit, in addition to being one of the foremost Staff fighters in The Nine he was also one of the regions richest owning the Drake Conglomerate, a multi national corporation with almost as many branches as countries it had offices in and also controlling considerable interest in all three of Mondoths Military contractors as well as the East Mondoth Trust which mined Mondoth's natural resources. After the tournament he thought that maybe establishing business interests in Nueve Italia could be profitable, he would think about it anyway. As soon as the plane was at the terminal the few regular passengers exited followed by one or two First class and Digintary class passengers. John was next off but he waited at the door for Sarah, letting her pass him he followed respectfully behind, Although one of the worlds richest men, John Drake always showed proper chivalric respect to women.

Satoru Kitazawa's plane was making the final approach to the Nueve Italian airport. He moved his head to the left a little and caught a glimpse of the Nueve Italian coastline. He began thinking to himself. It's wonderful to see something other than snow and ice for a change. I wonder what this place will be like... The trip had been extremely long, no doubt, considering the huge distance seperating the two countries. Two stopovers and connections had to be made. All in all, it was three days worth of flying. But finally, the destination was a mere two minutes away.

The LR-1 Propellor driven plane banked right and decreased altitude minutes before the final landing stages. The pilots fought off the sunlight as they eyed the landing strip. Other than the two pilots and his manager, who sat in the compartment ahead of him, the plane was dedicated to the master swordsman. Even the particular model plane was designed to carry five passengers, the back row was ripped out in order to provide a larger space for the two passengers. The last few moments were an eerie quiet. The plane touched down, a perfect landing, which broke the silence. The pilot applied the brakes and the plane eventually stopped. Kitazawa unbuckled his belt and thanked the two pilots for their service. He grabbed his bags and walked down the steep steps towards the airport shuttle, which would bring them to the airport.

The lines inside were quite long; many of the other competitors must have already arrived. Their fans from around the world were flocking to the country to see their idols compete. Kitazawa noticed there were no spectators from Japanese Antarctica, but he was sure there would be some in the coming days. Although, he did order his students not to leave the dojo to watch their sensei compete, which might have dampened the publicity surrounding his entry into the competition. It wouldn't matter anyway, he actually preferred it this way, although knowing that his countrymen were behind him would be nice as well.

After the team's passports and other documents were checked, they looked outside for their van, which would bring them to their hotel. They spotted a man with their dojo's name written, and followed him to the van. Nueve Italia was indeed very different from Antarctica. Much more natural warmth, no domes, fewer trains and different people. The van pulled into the hotel's parking lot, and Kitazawa and his manager checked in for the night. Finally he could enjoy a good night's rest, although the fact that the contest would begin in a few days weighed heavily on his mind.

Aero Fazziccio, Cítta diCielo

The guard was at first puzzled by the question posed by the girl from Gnufasur, and didn't know what she was entirely asking.

" Sword competi-. . .Oh! You mean the Arena? Well, as far as I know, all competitors are asked to report to the Palace of the Emperor, it's in the heart of the city, you can't miss it. Actually, if I remember correctly, there are cars outside waiting for each competitor to take you there, if you head down this hall, take a left, and then down the stairs, you'll reach the main gate, someone should be waiting for you. Good luck in the matches."
_____

Aero Real, Cítta diCielo

Upon seeing the Mondothian plane land and its escort of two NA-74 Spadas fly off and away to a nearby Airbase, the representative from the Emperor himself apporached the man and woman that had last left the aircraft and entered the airport. His hair was neatly cut, and was dark enough that his blue eyes stood out quite well due to the contrast. He called from slightly afar to get their attention.

" Mr Drake? Ms. Jules? Here for the Competition?"

He offered his hand out to them when he was close enough.

" The name's Juan Puerraño, I'm here to escort you to the Palace."
_____

Riviera Hotel, Cítta diCielo

Upon hearing that the competitor from Japanese Antartica had arrived, yet another messenger had been dispatched to bring him to the Palace. However, when Cristio Doronicci arrived to bring Kitazawa-san to the Emperor to sign in, he found that it was rather late, and jet-lag had caused the sensei to retire to his room. Instead, he left a message at the front desk to direct the Japanese Antartican to the Palace in the morning. . .
_____

"Ah yes, thank you, I assume our baggage will be taken care of?" Said John following Juan (lol, john and juan, same name, different languages)
OOC: Sorry, not much to say right now, just confirming that they're following him and going whwerever it is that they're going

Rekkur Vash and Darrick Gran boarded the transport. During their long journey, they slept, ate, played Nargopia Hold 'Em, and meditated. Well, Rekkur meditated anyway. Rekkur was a Modern Spiritualist, believing in the ethereal existence of Fate, which held all power in the universe. Like all Modern Spiritualists, he meditated to become closer to Fate and to gain the mysterious being's favor. Rekkur also believed that for Fate to be pleased with him, he had to work to maintain order and balance in his surroundings. This belief is perhaps what caused him to utilize the fighting style that made him so successful in Nargopia. Using dual scimitars of equal weight and length, Rekkur refused to adopt the tactic of using one weapon for defense and the other for attack. Rather, he used both weapons in a perfect harmony of cooperative defensive and offensive maneuvers.

Darrick prayed as well, but to a more familiar being. A Neo-Catholic, Darrick prayed to his Lord for strength, to his Christ for guidance, and to his Holy Spirit for courage. Darrick, at 6'7" and 230 pounds, was a large man who obviously valued brute force rather than finesse. His weapon of choice, the Great Sword, had served him well during the several tournaments he had championed in his lifetime. In accordance with his rather brash personality, Darrick often utilized an all-out offensive fighting style, charging in and working to end the fight as quickly as possible.

.....

The two men exited the transport and looked around the airport. Gathering their luggage, they headed outside, and saw a man in a shirt and tie holding a sign reading

Vash, Gran

Walking over to the man, they shook hands with him and entered the limousine, then proceeded to the Palace of the Emperor.

"Ah yes, thank you, I assume our baggage will be taken care of?" Said John following Juan.

~ Mr. Puerraño nodded.

"Of course, your luggage will be brought to where you shall be staying during your time here. Right this way now."

Leading the two down towards the main lobby, Juan saw a black vehicle with two flags on front, one bearing the Green, White, and Red of Nueve Italia, and the other proudly flying the colors of Mondoth, had just pulled up to recieve its precious cargo. Exiting the airport by means of a rather large rotating glass door, the trio headed straight for the midnight black luxury car. Juan Puerraño opened the right door to the back seat, letting the two Mondothians enter first, and then proceeded to slide into the front passenger's seat.

" Well, we're off."~

Walking over to the man, they shook hands with him and entered the limousine, then proceeded to the Palace of the Emperor.

~ Chinese (pronounced Chin-eh-say [yes, it's an Italian name]) Gallo had enjoyed the smooth ride to the Palace. Usually, the weekends made the streets of Cítta diCielo so crowded that it seemed almost impossible to even walk from one place to the other. The fact that the limousine was flying the colors of the Royal Family may have had something to do with the decreased amount of traffic, but it didn't matter. Pulling up in front of the grand building, Mr. Gallo quickly hopped out of the front seat and pulled open the back door for the two competitors from Nargopia. As they stepped out, yet another attendant made sure to get the fighters' luggage in the trunk.

" Mr. Vash, Mr. Gran; Welcome to the Palace. I will guide you to the Grand Hall, although I'm afraid our Emperor is somewhat busy, and may not be able to attend to you at the moment. Please though, make yourselves at home. Nuestra Casa es Tu Casa."

Heading up the marble staircase, the heavy oak doors that stood under the symbol of the Gori Dynasty swung open, allowing the two foreigners a first look at the granduer and beauty of Nueve Italian Architecture. Smooth white Ionic marble columns adorned the sides of the room, creating an open hallway down the green and white tiled floor. The walls were painted with colorful frescos depicting history, nature, and beauty from across the country. If one would look at the ceiling, a sprawling image of the Nueve Italian flag completed the paintings around it, and in the center of the painted banner stood a golden cross. Passing through another set of double doors, these ebony, the Grand Hall of the Palace was finally revealed. Here, Chinese had to apologize for leaving the two competitors, motioned for a room off to the side that served as a meeting hall where food was already awaiting the competitors, and left to find the Emperor to inform him that the Arena would finally be put into action.~

Victor Gort, Nicoli Denak and Kera Cona arrived at the airport in Neuva Italia, each carrying a backpack as well as both the bladed and safed version. From there they caught a taxi and directed the driver to the tournament grounds.

Aero Fazziccio, Cítta diCielo

The guard was at first puzzled by the question posed by the girl from Gnufasur, and didn't know what she was entirely asking.

" Sword competi-. . .Oh! You mean the Arena? Well, as far as I know, all competitors are asked to report to the Palace of the Emperor, it's in the heart of the city, you can't miss it. Actually, if I remember correctly, there are cars outside waiting for each competitor to take you there, if you head down this hall, take a left, and then down the stairs, you'll reach the main gate, someone should be waiting for you. Good luck in the matches."

Laura nods quickly, flashing the man a thumbs up. "Thanks, for the luck and directions and all. May you walk on warm sands!" She waved, then proceed along as directed. Outside the main gate, sure enough, was a man with a sign that read "Laura Sinclair and Leo Janakin."

Smiling, Laura leads the two othger Nekos up to the man. "Hello there! I'm Laura Sinclair, and he's Leo JanaKin." She jerks a thumb to the casual dressed burnette male Neko. "We're here for the Arena, sword fighting thingie-ma-bob..."

Smiling, Laura leads the two othger Nekos up to the man. "Hello there! I'm Laura Sinclair, and he's Leo JanaKin." She jerks a thumb to the casual dressed burnette male Neko. "We're here for the Arena, sword fighting thingie-ma-bob..."

~The man in the dark suit in front of the foreign trio nodded and opened the car door behind him.

" My name's Miguel Blanco, welcome to Nueve Italia. If you'll just get inside, we can be on our way."

After everyone was inside the royal escort, it sped off towards the Palace as the sun began to set over the city, creating an orange glow across the landscape as the falling sunbeams caught the glass windows of the many skyscrapers that seemed to be everywhere. Eventually, the three from Gnufasur were lead down the same path as the two Mondothian contestants, as yet another messenger went off to find the Emperor.
Really, he thought, even Antonio should be able to deal with this. . .Where could they have gone?~
_____

Victor Gort, Nicoli Denak and Kera Cona arrived at the airport in Neuva Italia, each carrying a backpack as well as both the bladed and safed version. From there they caught a taxi and directed the driver to the tournament grounds.

~ The taxi-driver, a Slavic man by the name of Vasily Petroskov, decided to correct the directions that the competitors had given.

" No, no, my comrades," he began, " You want to go to the Palace. All duelists were asked to go there. I'll take you now, free of charge, as my gift."

Puzzled by the driver's accent, one of the passengers questioned him on how he had come to be here.

" Well, in the last few years, a large Russian population had been growing here. Mainly, this country was full of Spaniards and Italians, and those were the official languages: Italian, Spanish, and, of course, English. However, two years ago, the government, seeing that my people had gained more power and we're becoming a larger part of the nation, recognized Russian as yet another national language. Still, I like it here. It may not be home, but it's much more open. Freedom of Speech, of Religion, of Press, all of that-"

Vasily cut himself short as the taxi lurched to the right on a hard turn into the Palace gates, and pulled up behind the car that had picked up the contestants from Gnufasur.

" Well, we're here," he popped the trunk so the passengers could get their equipment, "Just follow those other fighters there, and you should be fine. Good Luck."~

Kitazawa woke up the following morning, refreshed and rejuvinated. It was nice to sleep in a futon again, even if the floor was carpeted rather tatami matted. He certainly didn't miss sleeping on the plane. Even though it was modified for luxury, the drone of the engines and periodic turning made it difficult to sleep well. The accomodations made by the hotel made it like paradise compared to the plane ride. Once Kitazawa shook off his sleepiness, he let his futon air and walked to the adjacent room, where his manager was staying.

Mr. Kawano was already seated at the table. "Ohayo gozaimasu."

"Ohayo," responded Kitazawa. He took a site beside Kawano-san. Before him was a bowl of miso. Kitazawa began eating his breakfast.

"By the way, we got a call from the front desk this morning," notified the manager. Kitazawa raised an eyebrow, but continued eating his soup. "Our presence is requested at the palace this morning, to finish registration for the..."

His sentence was interrupted by a loud thump on the table. Kitazawa managed to get dressed and grab his bags. "Let's go!"

Victor, Nicoli and Kera thanked the driver. Nicoli leaned in and handed the man sufficiant money to cover the bill, even thought it was officially free. The three then headed into the palace.

~Though most of the competitors had already arrived at the Palace, the question still remained for most people: Where was the Emperor, or his son, Antonio? The duelists had made themselves comfortable in the meeting room, eating, drinking, socializing, but still, each wondered to themselves just when would they meet the elusive ruler. It didn't help that a very annoying noise kept occuring somewhere else within the palace. It sounded as if metal striking metal, over and over and over. Every now and then there was a screech, a bang, or some other resounding thud, but mostly, just the tink tink of steel being banged together. The sound came closer and closer with each passing moment. Finally, it was right outside the doorway into the meeting room where the contestants were staying. Several got up to inspect it, but suddenly, it stopped.

The doors soon swung open with a loud BANG and following them was a man dressed in entirely black, a saber clutched in his hand. He landed on his back and skidded for a few feet on the tiled floor. Following him through the door was a man in all white. His flowing dark hair and neatly trimmed beard gave him away as some type of royalty. He carried a cutlass himself, and kept a steady pace as he made his way towards his opponent. Black-garbbed quickly shifted his weight backwards, onto his palms, and then pushed forward, launching himself up and onto his feet. The two starred eachother down, oblivious to those around them as they circled. What happened next was so fast that it would be impossible to describe, but the combatants lunged at one another, and the ensuing battle was, both to the delight and horror of the other guests, spectacular, to say the least. They used everything and anything to gain the advantage; furniture, height, throwable objects, window curtains, anything. Finally, the fight brought both swordsman on top of the oak table in the center of the room.

Bringing his blade to bear in a downward chopping motion, Black-clothed hoped to knock the other off balance. Reading the move early, the white swordsman side stepped to the right and turned his body so that his front was on the inside of the table. Turning swiftly on one foot, he rocketed his boot towards his opponents chin. Black-Garbbed went flying back, and upon landing, he dropped his blade. Scrambling to his feet, he saw that it was no use, as the white-robbed swordsman had brought his weapon down towards the man's skull.

" Ok. . .Ok, I yield."

Brushing himself off, the man in black stoof and hopped off the table, followed the the other.

" You're emotions get the better of you. Stay calm in battle my son, and you will find victory."

" Great, first you beat me, then you lecture me."

Letting out a hearty laugh, the long-haired man finally realized the others in the room, and slowly, it dawned on them who these two were.

" My honored guests, let me introduce myself. My name is Giovanni Dominicio Gori, Emperor of Nueve Italia, and this is my son, Antonio Orsini Gori. Welcome to the Palace."~

The three competitors from Theao, let out a short round of applause at the impromptu display of swordsmanship depicted by the royal family. The three gave a half-bowed, then Victor stepped forward, "It is a pleasure to be here."

John Drake smiled at the display and clapped politely while sarah clapped enthusiastically. John was experienced enough to have recognized the swordplay while it was still in the hallway but most of Sarah's experience came from the muted chambers of traditional Mondothian Dojos adn had not recognized it until the fight came through the doors.