The HDC Fight of the Realms

[neverending]

Little Teaside? That's such a wimpy British name. No city in the USA would name itself that. We name our towns things like City of Industry, Cedar Mills or Deadwood. If we were going to name a town Little something it would be something like Little Rock. Little Teaside... I hate to say it, but that's just... gay.

[ferretchucker]

As sad as it is, that is the name of a british town. A lot of that stuff stems from things in my life. Dates are peoples birthdays, James Daniels comes from my brother's name and Teaside is where my sister's boyfriend goes to university. I added the Little on just to differentiate it.

[Papillon Noir]

@Neverending

Yes, the killer has other people "at home", but not in the woods shooting at me! :p

[neverending]

@Neverending

Yes, the killer has other people "at home", but not in the woods shooting at me! :p

Why do you think it was mentioned?

[scouse mac]

Whilst on the bungee ride job, there was an accident which resulted in the death of a teenage boy. The coroner had ruled it an accident but James knew he had not fitted the restraining strap correctly, and rather than take the blame, he lied during the inquest.

Daniel was at college during this time but was still in regular contact with James then, and on a visit to his friend, after a couple of drinks, James had confessed his crime.

This had put a strain on their friendship, hence the distance which grew between them although they did attempt to maintain normality through the exchange of cards and e-mails.

When life seemed to be getting along nicely for James and Judy, Daniel reappeared and approached his friend with how his job was poorly paid, crap house and rubbish life had driven him back home. He was so poor he didnt know what to do.

After Daniel had moved in with James and Judy, he waited for things to settle down before putting a plan into action. Waiting for Judy to be out of town for the weekend visiting relatives, he and James relived old times and got drunk together. During this time, Daniel got James onto the subject of the death on the ride. James obliged with a warts 'n all account, listing his culpability and subsequent lies at the inquest. Daniel, using his computer skills, had set up a hidden webcam and recorded the whole conversation.

With this a leverage, he began to blackmail James, small amounts first. As the months past and Daniel got with Caron, they began talking of setting up on their own, James began to hope this leech on his life may finally leave him alone.

They managed to buy the apartment across town with a large down payment thanks to the savings James and Judy were going to use for a college fund for their children further down the line. James kept all this secret form Judy. As it happened, Judy really got along with Caron (who knew about the blackmail) so the 'friendship' between James and Daniel was seen to be a strong one.

Several years pass and life had returned to normal for James, the college fund had been replenished, thanks over working himself at The Red Lobster, and Judy had never found out.

November 2nd, Daniel informs James that he and Caron need several thousands of dollars as they are skint. James refuses but the blackmail threat emerges again, threats of telling Judy everything, including all the lies he's told her, and destroying his family life. They agree to meet two days later at 15:00 in a car park adjacent to the gas station.

James, out of fear and desparation, has snapped. He refuses to allow Daniel and Caron to ruin his life. He arrives at the meet early and sees the two arrive and go into the gas station. Seizing his chance he casually strolls in and kills them both, along with the attendent for good measure.

[bwind22]

James was born on the 3rd of August 1970, making him currently 38. He was born in the small American town of Little Teaside to Anne and John Daniels. They lived in a three bedroom house. They gave birth to another child, Miles, on the 14th December 1976. The two brothers got on well. At school, James was an average student, but was well known for his sense of humor. Most of the teachers liked him and he finished school with Cs and Bs. He had many friends, but his best friend was a boy who happened to be named Daniel James. They got on very well and regularly went around each others houses and played practical jokes. Their favorite film genre was Comedy, although Daniel was also into Horror.

There wasn't anything out of the ordinary in the childhood of James Daniels. What is written above basically sums it up. He was a well adjusted kid from a loving home with a normal family life and normal friends. He got decent grades in school and had no behavioral problems.

James decided not to go to college, but Daniel did. James got a safe little job at a local tourist ride, a large bungee thrill ride. He made enough money that he bought a regular sized apartment in town. It was the 24th August 1991 that he met Judy. She had a go on the bungee seat and he was so attracted to her that they went out to dinner.

At this point in his life, everything is still predominantly normal and as described above, but as you will soon find out, the moment he met Judy was the beginning of his downfall.

It turned out she was already seeing somebody, but she broke it off to be with James. Within a year she had moved in and they were in a very comfortable relationship. They decided not to have children until they were a bit older.

What we are not told here is that the person Judy broke it off with, unbeknownst to James, was his childhood friend Daniel. Judy happened to be from the the town neighboring the one where Daniel went to college. Judy & Daniel had been dating for less than a year when she met James and broke it off and decided to move in with him.

Now, back to Daniel. While he was at college, he made new friends, as did James. Eventually, the two stopped really contacting each other, apart from the odd funny email or Christmas cards. Daniel got a job as a computer technician in a city about two hours away from James. While he was there, he was miserable. He had a bad house, very few friends he got on with really well and he was just all around lonely. So, in February 1994 he came back to Little Teaside and approached James.

As I mentioned, one of the friends he made in college was his girlfriend Judy. Because James and Daniel had lost touch, James was never aware that Daniel had a girlfriend at all. Once Judy left Daniel and moved in with James, Daniel's life took a turn for the lonely. He took an out of town job, moved to a shitty house and became quite depressed.

James and Judy had recently started renting a two bedroom house in a nice location. When Daniel came back, James couldn't say no. Daniel started living at the house where he remained until 1996. All three of them got on well and it was a fun time, but Daniel eventually got back on his feet and bought an apartment across town with his new girlfriend Caron. James and he remained friends.

When Daniel moved in, he and Judy decided to keep their previous relationship concealed from James. After a few weeks, their passion was reignited and a steamy affair took place right under James' unknowing nose. One night, James came home early and very nearly caught Daniel in Judy in the act. At that point, Daniel decided it'd be best to call off their steamy romance. He moved across town and got himself a new girlfriend, Caron. He and Caron were happy for a short time but eventually his lust for Judy overtook his will to be committed only to Caron and the affair resumed. Neither Caron, nor James had any idea.

James and Judy went on to have a daughter who they named Lucy on the 5th September 1999. They stayed in the town and lived in the same house. James' parents were still both alive and got on well with James and his new family. James was in a good job, now manager of the Red Lobster. Judy was working as a waitress at the same Red Lobster. Lucy went to the same school that James did and was getting good grades. James wasn't in any debt. None of his family had any illness.

Years passed and Daniel and Judy's nefarious deeds continued. James was completely in the dark and never had any clue. As far as he was aware, they were a happy family unit.

That is why the 2:46pm on the 4th of November 2005 was a strange day. James walked into the gas station where he had once worked and shot two customers and a cashier. He they casually walked out and drove away. He went to his daughters school at 3:00pm to pick her up as usual but the police arrived and arrested him.

On November 2nd, James received a call from Daniel's grilfriend, Caron. She said she had found a pair of panties under the bed and they didn't belong to her. Her suspicions prompted her to search through Daniel's personal items where she found a collection of homemade pornography consisting of Judy & Daniel. She called James to inform him because she thought it was only fair that he knew.

On November 3rd, James confronted Judy about it. Judy denied any wrongdoing at first, but eventually came clean and confessed that she had been having an affair with Daniel since 1994. Heartbroken and depressed, James continued asking questions to which he'd rather not know the answer. Then she dropped the bombshell. Lucy wasn't his daughter. James left the house in a fury.

On November 4th, James did not show up for work at Red Lobster. Instead, he parked and waited outside Daniel's apartment. Around 2:30 in the afternoon, Daniel and Judy left the apartment together and got in Daniel's car. James followed them. When they stopped at the only gas station in their small town, James was right behind them. Rage, anger and betrayal were written all over James' face as he reached under the front seat, produced a pistol and followed them in to the store.

James entered the store, pointed the pistol at Daniel and said "How could you?" before pulling the trigger and putting a hole in his forehead. He then turned the gun on Judy and said "I loved you!" before firing again and dropping her to the floor. The stunned cashier instinctively reached under the counter and produced a shotgun typically used to ward off robbers. Before the cashier could get the shotgun pointed towards James, James had put two slugs in to his chest. James then left the crimescene and headed to Lucy's school with the intention of picking her up and fleeing town.

[scouse mac]

Its funny how we came to almost the same conclusion but completely different approaches leading up to it.

[Papillon Noir]

[My additions are in italics]

James was born on the 3rd of August 1970, making him currently 38. He was born in the small American town of Little Teaside to Anne and John Daniels. They lived in a three bedroom house. They gave birth to another child, Miles, on the 14th December 1976. The two brothers got on well.

At school, James was an average student, but was well known for his sense of humor. Most of the teachers liked him and he finished school with Cs and Bs. He had many friends, but his best friend was a boy who happened to be named Daniel James. They got on very well and regularly went around each others houses and played practical jokes. Their favorite film genre was Comedy, although Daniel was also into Horror.

James decided not to go to college, but Daniel did. James got a safe little job at a local tourist ride, a large bungee thrill ride. He made enough money that he bought a regular sized apartment in town. It was the 24th August 1991 that he met Judy. She had a go on the bungee seat and he was so attracted to her that they went out to dinner.

It turned out she was already seeing somebody, unbeknown to James, it was Daniel. Judy and Daniel had been dating casually for the past few months, and he really liked her. He didn't want to introduce her to James right away since he knew she was totally James, who was the better looking one's type. Daniel thought if he could keep her a secret, he could build more of a relationship with her before she met James, but she broke it off to be with James. Within a year she had moved in and they were in a very comfortable relationship. They decided not to have children until they were a bit older.

Now, back to Daniel. While he was at college, he made new friends, as did James. Eventually, the two stopped really contacting each other, apart from the odd funny email or Christmas cards. Daniel never really got over the loss of Judy. She found out that Daniel and James were best friends, and because she thought it would be awkward, she agreed with Daniel to keep their past relationship a secret. Daniel got a job as a computer technician in a city about two hours away from James. While he was there, he was miserable. He had a bad house, very few friends he got on with really well and he was just all around lonely. He started obsessing about Judy. So, in February 1994 he came back to Little Teaside and approached James. Daniel knew that James and Judy were still together and he concocted a plan to be with her, deciding her love was worth risking his friendship with James.

James and Judy had recently started renting a two bedroom house in a nice location. When Daniel came back, James couldn't say no. Daniel started living at the house where he remained until 1996. All three of them got on well and it was a fun time, even though Judy was hesitant at first, Daniel insisted that they could just be friends. As the three of them got closer, this brought up old romantic feelings for Daniel and they started having an affair. As Judy began to rely on Daniel more and more, his obsession of her began to dwindle. It was at this time he met Caron. Caron dazzled Daniel the way Judy did when they first met. Caron was younger, prettier, and very successful. Judy tried to keep Daniel at home, even secretly enlisting the help of James's brother Miles (part-time drug dealer) by trying to get him hooked on drugs,but Daniel eventually got back on his feet and bought an apartment across town with his new girlfriend Caron. James and he remained friends.

James and Judy went on to have a daughter who they named Lucy on the 5th September 1999. They stayed in the town and lived in the same house. James' parents were still both alive and got on well with James and his new family. James was in a good job, now manager of the Red Lobster. Judy was working as a waitress at the same Red Lobster. Lucy went to the same school that James did and was getting good grades. James wasn't in any debt.
None of his family had any illness.

That is why the 2:46pm on the 4th of November 2005 was a strange day. Miles had had a particularly bad year and had been screwed over by his business partner in the drug business and was at the end of his rope. He couldn't ask his brother for more money so he decided to try blackmailing Daniel and Judy for their affair and demanding $50,000 or that he would tell James. Daniel and Judy both met at the gas station where Miles worked to discuss the situation.

Earlier that morning, James stumbled upon Judy's secret diary, as he went to put it back the page fell open mentioning the affair with Daniel. Enraged, James left and went to see his brother for advice. James, unfortunately didn't read the whole diary as he missed that his own brother was involved in the scandal.James walked into the gas station where he had once worked and upon finding Daniel and Judy there, accused them of the affair. They tried to deny it and as James tried to attack Daniel, Miles stepped in to stop him and let slip that he was involved too, even though it had been over for awhile. James demanded to know if Lucy was his and when they didn't respond immediately, he went berserk and grabbed the pistol that was kept under the cashier counter for break-ins and shot two customers, Daniel and Judy and a cashier, his brother Miles. It all happened so fast and James, aghast at his own actions, just went numb. He then casually walked out and drove away.

He went to his daughters school at 3:00pm to pick her up as usual but then sat in the car, unsure what to do about the daughter he had raised, but then the police arrived and arrested him.

[Papillon Noir]

Its funny how we came to almost the same conclusion but completely different approaches leading up to it.

I think it's funny that bwind and I both did the affair scenario. I like yours Scouse, I would have never thought about adding a death of kid in there and keeping it a secret. :)

[scouse mac]

I think it's funny that bwind and I both did the affair scenario. I like yours Scouse, I would have never thought about adding a death of kid in there and keeping it a secret. :)


I was going to go the affair route too but changed my mind last minute. Wasnt sure how plausible it would be but thought fuck it, why not?


The inclusion of Miles into the scene was a quality move. I didnt see a way of including any of the family members so kudos to you, pap ;)

[The Gate Master]

Whilst on the bungee ride job, there was an accident which resulted in the death of a teenage boy. The coroner had ruled it an accident but James knew he had not fitted the restraining strap correctly, and rather than take the blame, he lied during the inquest.

A very clever addition to this part of his life. You thought about certain risks and put guilt over his head. You picked up Perception and creativity points here.

Daniel was at college during this time but was still in regular contact with James then, and on a visit to his friend, after a couple of drinks, James had confessed his crime.

Once again, you picked up on a relatively small thing and decided to expand on it. You used the fact that they had been in contact to your advantage, giving you more freedom here. Perception points definitely gained.

This had put a strain on their friendship, hence the distance which grew between them although they did attempt to maintain normality through the exchange of cards and e-mails.

You created reason as to why the two of them grew distant other than just the college work getting in the way. The way Daniel reacted was logical. Perception and logic points gained.

When life seemed to be getting along nicely for James and Judy, Daniel reappeared and approached his friend with how his job was poorly paid, crap house and rubbish life had driven him back home. He was so poor he didnt know what to do.

This was a granted. No points gained here, but it did set up points for the future.

After Daniel had moved in with James and Judy, he waited for things to settle down before putting a plan into action. Waiting for Judy to be out of town for the weekend visiting relatives, he and James relived old times and got drunk together. During this time, Daniel got James onto the subject of the death on the ride. James obliged with a warts 'n all account, listing his culpability and subsequent lies at the inquest. Daniel, using his computer skills, had set up a hidden webcam and recorded the whole conversation.

This was the key point of your version of his life. I was glad you went for a slightly more obscure route than the affair. The way Daniel acted was how a man in such a desperate way would act. And as you had previously shown that their relationship hadn't merely faded and was actually under strain meant that Daniel might not have so many hang ups about doing this. Definite creativity and logic points here.

With this a leverage, he began to blackmail James, small amounts first. As the months past and Daniel got with Caron, they began talking of setting up on their own, James began to hope this leech on his life may finally leave him alone.

This showed the stress and vulnerability that James would be feeling, which would eventually grow to his final deed. Logic points here.

They managed to buy the apartment across town with a large down payment thanks to the savings James and Judy were going to use for a college fund for their children further down the line. James kept all this secret form Judy. As it happened, Judy really got along with Caron (who knew about the blackmail) so the 'friendship' between James and Daniel was seen to be a strong one.

Having the two of them forced to stay in each others lives for their wives. This would continue the strain on James and mean that he was always there to be leeched off of. Perception, creativity and logic points.

Several years pass and life had returned to normal for James, the college fund had been replenished, thanks over working himself at The Red Lobster, and Judy had never found out.

Giving him an up before the down was very clever.

November 2nd, Daniel informs James that he and Caron need several thousands of dollars as they are skint. James refuses but the blackmail threat emerges again, threats of telling Judy everything, including all the lies he's told her, and destroying his family life. They agree to meet two days later at 15:00 in a car park adjacent to the gas station.

I very much liked this. I hoped that at least one of you would make the people he killed in the gas station relevant. If you hadn't, it would be awful but still, it helped you. Perception, logic and creativity points here.

James, out of fear and desparation, has snapped. He refuses to allow Daniel and Caron to ruin his life. He arrives at the meet early and sees the two arrive and go into the gas station. Seizing his chance he casually strolls in and kills them both, along with the attendent for good measure.


A very cleverly thought out piece. You set things up from the past to go through and ruin his life in the future. Your characters acted logically and it was very inventive. You also perceived certain events in very unexpected but intelligent ways. Your best piece yet.

Creativity: 8/10
Logic: 8/10
Perception: 9/10

Total: 25/30

[The Gate Master]

There wasn't anything out of the ordinary in the childhood of James Daniels. What is written above basically sums it up. He was a well adjusted kid from a loving home with a normal family life and normal friends. He got decent grades in school and had no behavioral problems.

At this point in his life, everything is still predominantly normal and as described above, but as you will soon find out, the moment he met Judy was the beginning of his downfall.

A good introduction. It didn't pick you up any points but it wasn't necessarily a mistake. It does rule out anything from his life before Judy but once again, that is by no means a mistake.

What we are not told here is that the person Judy broke it off with, unbeknownst to James, was his childhood friend Daniel. Judy happened to be from the the town neighboring the one where Daniel went to college. Judy & Daniel had been dating for less than a year when she met James and broke it off and decided to move in with him.

A very well thought out twist in the tale. There isn't much to say about it, but it was well thought out. Perception and creativity points gained here.

As I mentioned, one of the friends he made in college was his girlfriend Judy. Because James and Daniel had lost touch, James was never aware that Daniel had a girlfriend at all. Once Judy left Daniel and moved in with James, Daniel's life took a turn for the lonely. He took an out of town job, moved to a shitty house and became quite depressed.

By putting Daniel in a desperate situation you can then bring him into the loop to put stress on the rest, which works especially well when coupled with the affair. Logic and creativity points gained.

When Daniel moved in, he and Judy decided to keep their previous relationship concealed from James. After a few weeks, their passion was reignited and a steamy affair took place right under James' unknowing nose. One night, James came home early and very nearly caught Daniel in Judy in the act. At that point, Daniel decided it'd be best to call off their steamy romance. He moved across town and got himself a new girlfriend, Caron. He and Caron were happy for a short time but eventually his lust for Judy overtook his will to be committed only to Caron and the affair resumed. Neither Caron, nor James had any idea.

It would be likely that they would keep their relationship hidden given the circumstances. The affair was an obvious move, but not a bad one. Also, continuing the relationship even after Caron meant that she could be involved too. Creativity and perception points gained.

Years passed and Daniel and Judy's nefarious deeds continued. James was completely in the dark and never had any clue. As far as he was aware, they were a happy family unit.

On November 2nd, James received a call from Daniel's grilfriend, Caron. She said she had found a pair of panties under the bed and they didn't belong to her. Her suspicions prompted her to search through Daniel's personal items where she found a collection of homemade pornography consisting of Judy & Daniel. She called James to inform him because she thought it was only fair that he knew.[I]

I would have thought that Daniel and Judy would be more careful than to keep home made pornography in their house but it could happen. This would be the ultimate insult to James, putting the stress on him.

On November 3rd, James confronted Judy about it. Judy denied any wrongdoing at first, but eventually came clean and confessed that she had been having an affair with Daniel since 1994. Heartbroken and depressed, James continued asking questions to which he'd rather not know the answer. Then she dropped the bombshell. Lucy wasn't his daughter. James left the house in a fury.

The fact that Lucy wasn't his daughter was a good addition as well, throwing him over the edge. Logic, creativity and perception points gained.

On November 4th, James did not show up for work at Red Lobster. Instead, he parked and waited outside Daniel's apartment. Around 2:30 in the afternoon, Daniel and Judy left the apartment together and got in Daniel's car. James followed them. When they stopped at the only gas station in their small town, James was right behind them. Rage, anger and betrayal were written all over James' face as he reached under the front seat, produced a pistol and followed them in to the store.

I'm not sure why Judy went straight to Daniel's house and went for a drive to the gas station after it had all come out, but it could happen I suppose. Creativity points gained.

James entered the store, pointed the pistol at Daniel and said "How could you?" before pulling the trigger and putting a hole in his forehead. He then turned the gun on Judy and said "I loved you!" before firing again and dropping her to the floor. The stunned cashier instinctively reached under the counter and produced a shotgun typically used to ward off robbers. Before the cashier could get the shotgun pointed towards James, James had put two slugs in to his chest. James then left the crimescene and headed to Lucy's school with the intention of picking her up and fleeing town.

A good ending to the lives of two deceitful people.


A well thought out piece, however there were times were certain actions didn't seem to make sense. However, you still took certain events and twisted them to your advantage as well as being quite creative at times, especially the previous relationships.

Creativity: 7
Logic: 7
Perception: 8

Total: 22/30

[The Gate Master]

Before I begin, I would like to state that even thought this is similar to Bwind22's entry, they were submitted within a short space of time of each other so I do not believe this to be plagiarized. Therefore, no creativity points will be lost for that. Had a larger gap been present, I may have had to deduct points.

[My additions are in italics]

James was born on the 3rd of August 1970, making him currently 38. He was born in the small American town of Little Teaside to Anne and John Daniels. They lived in a three bedroom house. They gave birth to another child, Miles, on the 14th December 1976. The two brothers got on well.

At school, James was an average student, but was well known for his sense of humor. Most of the teachers liked him and he finished school with Cs and Bs. He had many friends, but his best friend was a boy who happened to be named Daniel James. They got on very well and regularly went around each others houses and played practical jokes. Their favorite film genre was Comedy, although Daniel was also into Horror.

James decided not to go to college, but Daniel did. James got a safe little job at a local tourist ride, a large bungee thrill ride. He made enough money that he bought a regular sized apartment in town. It was the 24th August 1991 that he met Judy. She had a go on the bungee seat and he was so attracted to her that they went out to dinner.

It turned out she was already seeing somebody, unbeknown to James, it was Daniel. Judy and Daniel had been dating casually for the past few months, and he really liked her. He didn't want to introduce her to James right away since he knew she was totally James, who was the better looking one's type. Daniel thought if he could keep her a secret, he could build more of a relationship with her before she met James, but she broke it off to be with James. Within a year she had moved in and they were in a very comfortable relationship. They decided not to have children until they were a bit older.

As with Bwind, this was a good move. It put Daniel and James in an odd position, but one that James didn't know of. I liked the fact that Daniel was aware of James' charm, causing some resentment and jealousy. Perception, creativity and logic scored.

Now, back to Daniel. While he was at college, he made new friends, as did James. Eventually, the two stopped really contacting each other, apart from the odd funny email or Christmas cards. Daniel never really got over the loss of Judy. She found out that Daniel and James were best friends, and because she thought it would be awkward, she agreed with Daniel to keep their past relationship a secret. Daniel got a job as a computer technician in a city about two hours away from James. While he was there, he was miserable. He had a bad house, very few friends he got on with really well and he was just all around lonely. He started obsessing about Judy. So, in February 1994 he came back to Little Teaside and approached James. Daniel knew that James and Judy were still together and he concocted a plan to be with her, deciding her love was worth risking his friendship with James.


I like the idea of obsession coming into play here. It also makes it all the more sad that James went mad because it was mainly due to the actions of others and not him. Perception and creativity gained here.

James and Judy had recently started renting a two bedroom house in a nice location. When Daniel came back, James couldn't say no. Daniel started living at the house where he remained until 1996. All three of them got on well and it was a fun time, even though Judy was hesitant at first, Daniel insisted that they could just be friends. As the three of them got closer, this brought up old romantic feelings for Daniel and they started having an affair. As Judy began to rely on Daniel more and more, his obsession of her began to dwindle. It was at this time he met Caron. Caron dazzled Daniel the way Judy did when they first met. Caron was younger, prettier, and very successful. Judy tried to keep Daniel at home, even secretly enlisting the help of James's brother Miles (part-time drug dealer) by trying to get him hooked on drugs,but Daniel eventually got back on his feet and bought an apartment across town with his new girlfriend Caron. James and he remained friends.

This was also a very good addition, and one based on what often happens in reality. People's obsessions do fade. And the fact that Daniel had drawn Judy closer to him at this point, it made things very difficult between them. It think the fact that Judy became the slightly unhinged one also would make it more painful for James when the truth came out. Also, the inclusion of Miles was well done. Points gained in all three areas.

James and Judy went on to have a daughter who they named Lucy on the 5th September 1999. They stayed in the town and lived in the same house. James' parents were still both alive and got on well with James and his new family. James was in a good job, now manager of the Red Lobster. Judy was working as a waitress at the same Red Lobster. Lucy went to the same school that James did and was getting good grades. James wasn't in any debt.
None of his family had any illness.

That is why the 2:46pm on the 4th of November 2005 was a strange day. Miles had had a particularly bad year and had been screwed over by his business partner in the drug business and was at the end of his rope. He couldn't ask his brother for more money so he decided to try blackmailing Daniel and Judy for their affair and demanding $50,000 or that he would tell James. Daniel and Judy both met at the gas station where Miles worked to discuss the situation.

Having Miles in a bad situation was good, as he then had to put the screws on Daniel and Judy. Creativity points here, although I'm not so sure about the fact that Judy would tell her drug dealing brother in law about her affair, even if the idea was to keep Daniel around.

Earlier that morning, James stumbled upon Judy's secret diary, as he went to put it back the page fell open mentioning the affair with Daniel. Enraged, James left and went to see his brother for advice. James, unfortunately didn't read the whole diary as he missed that his own brother was involved in the scandal.James walked into the gas station where he had once worked and upon finding Daniel and Judy there, accused them of the affair. They tried to deny it and as James tried to attack Daniel, Miles stepped in to stop him and let slip that he was involved too, even though it had been over for awhile. James demanded to know if Lucy was his and when they didn't respond immediately, he went berserk and grabbed the pistol that was kept under the cashier counter for break-ins and shot two customers, Daniel and Judy and a cashier, his brother Miles. It all happened so fast and James, aghast at his own actions, just went numb. He then casually walked out and drove away.

It wouldn't have been particularly clever for her to leave a diary confessing her deeds in her house, but apparently she did. I like the fact that you state how he got the gun and also that he didn't go out with the intent to kill. As with Bwind, you added to the stress he was under by creating the fact that Lucy wasn't his daughter. Also, unlike the other two, you gave a clearer reason as to why he killed the cashier.

He went to his daughters school at 3:00pm to pick her up as usual but then sat in the car, unsure what to do about the daughter he had raised, but then the police arrived and arrested him.

This was a very good entry. You did go for some of the more prediactable routes and certain actions by the people I found unlikely but overall you should be very proud of it.

Creativity: 7.5
Logic: 7.5
Perception: 8

Total: 23/30

It was a difficult one to judge, as you did a lot that the others did but somehow it still felt unique, like you took certain things just that little bit further.

[The Gate Master]

Back in the Gate Master's realm, the three contestants look nervously at each other. The Gate Master's voice sounds.

"Here are the results...

Papillon Noir scored an exact 40 out of 54. She scored 6/9, then 11/15, then 23/30.

Bwind 22 Scored 42/54. He scored 7/9, then 13/15, then 22/30

Scouse Mac scored 42.5/54. He scored 6.5/9, then 11/15, then 25/30.

It is a shame to see you go, Papillon Noir. The last to make past the first round and the first to fall."

She looks around frantically, looking for a way to escape, but there is nothing but blackness and the occasional color flying by. She looks across to the others for help. Scouse Mac can't keep eye contact, and Bwind smiles sadistically. A slight tear runs down her cheek and she blinks. Suddenly, everything is white. She is in an abyss of white.

"Hello?" She tries to say, but no sound comes out. There is a loud white noise in her ear, growing louder. She covers her ears but it just carries on. There's a faint dripping sound but she can't see any water. She sees a door in the distance and runs towards it, but every time she blinks it moves further away. She keeps running but holds her eyes open. She reaches the door, opens it and dives through. She is still in the same abyss. The white noise and dripping remains. She looks behind her and sees no door.

Meanwhile...

In the Gate Keeper's realm, Bwind22 and Scouse Mac are looking at each other nervously. Nothing has happened for some time now. There are no colours shooting past and the Gate Keeper has not spoken. They cannot hear each other try to speak. Suddenly, without warning, they are back at the very beginning, in the White Realm, just two of them. It is somehow rebuilt after being destroyed previously, though they didn't know this. The Gate Keeper speaks again...



To the two finalists, tonight your next and final challenge will be revealed. You are back in the realms, but this time only one can leave.

[Papillon Noir]

Thank you for this Gate Master, I thoroughly enjoyed this competition and I hope you make it an annual event (or come up with something else equally entertaining ;) ). I really enjoyed the last three challenges as I felt I got a chance to be really creative (even to my own demise :p )

And to Scouse and bwind, I enjoyed reading your entries as well (and entry to come), they were creative and entertaining. Good luck in the next round. :)


Cries in her white abyss.

[ferretchucker]

[In the voice of the Gate Master]

All your entries were very good Papillon, and it was very close at the end, with only 2 and a half points between you and the winner of that section. You should be very proud, and it is good to see you enjoyed the competition. And thankyou for being the first to agree to take part. Thankyou loads.

[scouse mac]

Thank you for this Gate Master, I thoroughly enjoyed this competition and I hope you make it an annual event (or come up with something else equally entertaining ;) ). I really enjoyed the last three challenges as I felt I got a chance to be really creative (even to my own demise :p )

And to Scouse and bwind, I enjoyed reading your entries as well (and entry to come), they were creative and entertaining. Good luck in the next round. :)


Cries in her white abyss.


Well done on all your entrys Pap, as worthy adversaries go, you're right up the top.

;)

[The Gate Master]

Here we are. It has been a long journey with very worthy contestants, but in the end there are only two left. The two who succeeded where others did not. Now, so far, this game has been all about ones self. Other than possibly helping them develop their answers or find a route, there has been very little affecting each other. That is to change right now.

You are back in the realms where it all started. They have been reconstructed and are now kitted with a very useful feature...For you see, each realm now has an endless supply of a particular weapon, stashed in a well in the middle. I will not reveal too much, though I suppose you can guess, for if you didn't have initiative you would not have arrived in the final.

All I want from you now is a PM of five numbers. Those numbers will relate to the gates in the different realms. For instance, if I wanted to go through white 5, then the 3rd gate of the realm white 5 leads to, I would begin my sequence of numbers; 5, 3 etc.

Once that is done, I will explain the next task. You have until Sunday Midnight EST. Don't be late...

[scouse mac]

Message sent

[The Gate Master]

It is way past the deadline and I am afraid Bwind22 has yet to submit his 5 numbers. Due to the late stage in the game and the fact that it wasn't a very long deadline, I will give him until 12:00pm tomorrow to turn in his answers. Failure to do so will mean that his numbers will be randomly chosen by me and there will be only four of them.

Don't be late...

[scouse mac]

The two greatest words in the English language....................



DE...............................FAULT!

[bwind22]

Geez, I'm sorry. I completely missed that we had moved in to the next stage. My bad. I'll send in my 5 numbers right now, but if Scouse objects or if GateMaster deems a penalty is in order and I need to be stuck with 4 random numbers, that's fine.

Sorry again.

[scouse mac]

Geez, I'm sorry. I completely missed that we had moved in to the next stage. My bad. I'll send in my 5 numbers right now, but if Scouse objects or if GateMaster deems a penalty is in order and I need to be stuck with 4 random numbers, that's fine.

Sorry again.


Im not bothered, but should you win I will use this as an excuse

[The Gate Master]

It appears you are lucky this time Bwind22.

This is what has happened. As each of you has journeyed into the five realms you chose, you picked up the weapon from those realms. Here are the nine weapons you could have chosen, in no particular order. With them is first their attack power, then their speed. Speed will determine who takes the first shot.

War Hammer - 3/5 1/5
Battle Axe - 4/5 2/5
Halberd - 3/5 2/5
Longsword - 4/5 3/5
Dagger - 2/5 4/5
Mace - 4/5 2/5
Crossbow - 3/5 3/5
Longbow - 2/5 5/5
Scepter - 5/5 4/5

There was also a realm containing Plate Armor. It has no attack power but instead automatically removes 2 of the attack power of the enemy weapon. It can be used twice.

There will be several rounds, each battled in different realms, which will be chosen by both contestants alternately.

Here are the rules of play.

You will send me a PM of your chosen weapon to use (which you will be told through PM). You can both withstand 25 hits, and the game will end when one of you is dead. Speed will not really come into play until the last round or so.

Things might get confusing here.

For the first five turns you must use different weapons each time. If you are both still alive after that, you may then use each weapon once every two turns.

Also, for two turns only, including during the first five turns, you may use two weapons together. However, if this is done in the first five turns, at least one weapon must have not been used before.

Speed will make a difference towards the end when you both have the power to kill each other, the faster weapon will prevail. If you are both using weapons with equal speed, the first entry in will be the winner.

You may wonder what the relevance of the realms is in this. If you are in the realm that the weapon you are using was chosen in, it adds +1 hit power to that weapon. The way the realms will be chosen is the same as the first rounds. You will start from the white realm, although will not fight there. As he won the last round, Scouse Mac will choose the first realm.

I will leave the next twenty four hours open for any questions you may have about the final fights.

[bwind22]

Sounds cool. Good luck Scouse!

[scouse mac]

Sounds cool. Good luck Scouse!


Ditto.


Sounds like a bludgeon fest, bring it on!

[The Gate Master]

Scouse Mac, if you would, please select the gate you wish to travel through. Then...we will begin.

[scouse mac]

Very well



White 4

[bwind22]

So now we just send in our weapon choice for this round, right?

[The Gate Master]

That is correct. Send your chosen weapon(s) in the form of a PM to me. You have until tomorrow, 12:00pm EST to submit your weapon. If you fail to, I will randomly choose one from your list.

[The Gate Master]

The two remaining challengers look at each other for a moment. Their eyes, which had begun the ordeal of the realms sure and hopeful were now grim and hardened. They nod at each other, but there is no compassion in the greeting. Scouse Mac looks to the top of the room and shouts out;

"White four!"

The stone gate shudders slightly, possibly from the damage done to it in the destruction of the realms, but then the familiar swirling vortex appears, sending a slight jolt of nostalgia through the two contestants. They step in together and come out in...the purple realm. They each think for a moment, then walk up to a hole in the wall each and speak their choice of weapon. The Gate Master's voice rumbles through the purple realm.

"FIGHT!"

From the ceiling, both are struck by a bolt of purple lighting. When the light disappears they are both holding their chosen weapon. Scouse Mac is holding the Warhammer. He holds it out in front of him and stares dead into the eyes of Bwind22, suddenly feeling some fear as Bwind22 is also holding the Warhammer. However...he is wearing the Plate Armor. Bwind winks at Scouse, who in a sudden move of urgency and worry darts forward and swings the heavy hammer. It connects precisely with Bwind's chest, throwing him backwards against the wall. As it does so, the hammer also disintegrates in a few sparks of purple.

Bwind pulls himself up and looks around. He spots Scouse Mac, now even more worried. Scouse puts his hands out in a plee for mercy.

"I didn't want to hurt you...it's just the rules of the game!" He cried.

"I know...so is this!"

He runs at Scouse Mac, who sensing the hopelessness of the situation merely closes his eyes and sits down. Bwind raises the hammer high and slams it down onto Scouse Mac's head, which instantly crushes and spreads along the floor. The Hammer and Armor disappear in the purple sparks. He looks at his feet and the blood splattered up them.

"I...I won!" He yells.

"Not yet..." replies the deep voice of the Gate Master.

The Purple sparks reappear, this time all over the remains of Scouse's head. Within seconds they have darted back together and he is good as new, albeit with a few bruises still remaining.

"What the hell?" Scouse says, as he looks around.

"That's not fair. You made him invincible! YOU CHEATED!" Screams Bwind22.

The voice of the Gate Master sounds once more.

"The wounds will heal but his life will not...you have weakened him. As has he, you. Now...let the next round commence!

Bwind22 used the warhammer to inflict 3 damage on Scouse Mac.

Scouse Mac: 22/25 Health.

Scouse Mac used the warhammer to inflict 3 damage on Bwind22. But as Bwind22 was wearing his armor, it only did 1 damage to him.

Bwind22: 24/25 Health.


Now, Bwind, select the gate you wish to travel through, and both of you send me your weapon choices for the next round. You have until 12:00pm EST Sunday. Remember, you need to post the gate, and both of you must send me your weapons of choice.

[Papillon Noir]

Very cool. I'm interested to see how this turns out. :)

[bwind22]

Gate 4.....

[The Gate Master]

I have just noticed a significant hole in one of the rules.


The rule stating that you may use two weapons together twice, had a flaw. Bwind22 chose to use two together in the first round. The rule stated that in the first five turns, if this is done, at least one weapon must have not been used before. This means, that by his forth turn, Bwind22 will have used up all of his weapons making the fifth turn impossible, as there would be no new weapons for him to use. Anyway, there are several solutions to this, but I will need approval from both contestants.

The five turn rule could be changed to four turns for both of you.

Bwind22 could be allowed to use one weapon twice in the first five turns, with some kind of compensation made to Scouse Mac.

Or, any other solution that either of you decide on. When a decision has been made, we will continue the fights.

[bwind22]

The five turn rule could be changed to four turns for both of you.


This seems like the most logical solution with the least effect on anything.

[The Gate Master]

Scouse Mac, do you agree?

[scouse mac]

Scouse Mac, do you agree?


Thats fine by me

[bwind22]

So just to clarify... I can't use my other double weapon turn until after the first 4 turns? Because if I did, that would move me down to only 3 turns of unique weapons? Is that right? I'm just a tad confused.

[scouse mac]

Thats the way Im reading it.

You will have to wait until round five for another weapon double

[The Gate Master]

I will now give you both the option to change your choice of weapons this round. Bwind, I'm afraid you will have to as your choice didn't comply with the rules.

[bwind22]

You gave me the same weapon twice. If I'm not allowed to use it twice, then I'll only have 3 unique weapons.

[The Gate Master]

Humblest apologies Bwind22, I made a mistake.

[bwind22]

No problemo. I'll leave mine as is.

[The Gate Master]

Both contenders glare at each other, the true nature of the round sinking in. There could be no remorse. Bwind22 looks up and shouts out

"GATE 4!"

The stone archway shudders, then the familiar swirling begins once again.

"After you..." Says Bwind22, calmly. Scouse Mac glares at him, then walks through the gate, followed closely by Bwind22. They are in another hall. The Grey Realm. Both of them repeat the same process as before and speak their chosen weapon into the hole in the wall. They step away from the wall and stare at each other.

"FIGHT!"

The bolts of lightning, now Grey, shoot down from the ceiling and, when cleared, the two have their weapons in their hands. Scouse Mac is brandishing the Mace, holding it behind him, ready to swing over his shoulder. Bwind22 is once again holding The War Hammer. He winks at Scouse Mac and steps slowly towards him, ready to swing the hammer down on his head once again.

Scouse Mac slowly walks backwards, as though in fear. Bwind22 smiles, swings the Hammer high and is bringing it down when the mace slams into his ribcage, slamming him backwards and cracking a few of his ribs. The Mace disappears in sparks and there is the sickening sound of ribs refusing. Bwind22 stands up, full of anger, and runs as Scouse Mac. He swings the Warhammer and it misses. He swings it again, sideways this time. Scouse Mac tries to run but the Hammer follows through and collides with his back, launching him into the wall. His spine crunches back into place as the hammer disappears.

Scouse Mac used the Mace to inflict 4 damage on Bwind22.

Bwind22: 20/25 Health

Bwind22 used the warhammer to inflict 3 damage on Scouse Mac.

Scouse Mac: 19/25 Health


Scouse Mac, if you would, please post your gate of choice, and both of you send me your weapons as usual. You have until Friday at 12:00pm EST. Don't be late...

[scouse mac]

Gate Grey 4

[The Gate Master]

The two contestants waste no time.

"GREY FOUR!" Shouts Scouse Mac, and the gate swirls open. The two of them walk through, Scouse Mac limping slightly. They arrive in a large hall made of red stone. They are in the Red Realm.

Scouse Mac and Bwind22 walk over to the small holes in the wall and speak their choices very quickly. As they step back to their places in the room, Scouse Mac smiles malevolently and Bwind22 suddenly feels a shiver down his spine.

The bolts of lightning come down and strike both of them, and when they clear, Bwind22's mouth drops open in shock and fear. Scouse Mac is holding the Crossbow and has three bolts in a small pack on his back. However, not only is he holding that but he is also holding the Scepter. The small ruby on the end of it is glowing slightly.

Bwind22 is holding the Halberd, it's silver blade glinting slightly in the lights thrown from the torches along the walls.

"FIGHT!"

Bwind22 runs at Scouse Mac, but he isn't fast enough and Scouse Mac holds the Scepter forward. A red trail of energy shoots up the scepter's engraved shapes and flies from the end of the jewel, traveling at immense speed. It smashes into Bwind22's chest, and when the energy has disappeared, A large hole the size of a dinner plate is left in his chest, smoldering. The edges of the hole glow red and it repairs itself. He groans painfully, then makes another run for Scouse Mac, who's scepter disappears in red sparks.

Scouse Mac reacts too fast for him though and quickly loads the crossbow, firing it into Bwind22's leg. He stumbles and falls to the ground. As he gets up, another bolt smashes through Bwind22's collar bone. He yells out in pain but uses the halberd to help himself up. As he does so, he's thrown backwards by yet a third bolt into his ribs. The bolts, like the scepter, disintegrate into red sparks, and the wounds heal.

Bwind22 gets to his feat, furious and in pain. Ignoring his still hurting leg, he rushes at Scouse Mac who, is far at the other end of the hall. Bwind22 keeps running at Scouse Mac who at the last second tries to run to one side. Bwind22 swings the Halberd which promptly decapitates Scouse Mac. Bwind22 spits angrily at Scouse Mac's twitching body. The neck and head both let out sparks and rush towards each other, joining.

"I would say don't lose your head so much, but it would be a bit hypocritical of me." Says Scouse Mac, smirking. Bwind22 holds up his middle finger.

"I'm cooking something up, be sure of that..." he replies.



Scouse Mac used the Scepter and Crossbow to inflict 8 points of damage on Bwind22.

Bwind22: 12/25 Health

Bwind22 used the Halberd to inflict 3 points of damage on Scouse Mac.

Scouse Mac: 16/25 Health


This has certainly changed the bookie's estimates. However, things have a way of changing at the last minute. Bwind22, please choose a gate, and both of you please send me a private message with your weapon of choice. Remember, this is the last of the starting period. After this, you can use each weapon once every two turns.

You have until Sunday at 12:00pm EST. Don't be late...

[bwind22]

gate 3....

[The Gate Master]

The two contestants don't even acknowledge each other as they step through the third gate, walking one after the other. They arrive in a bright room where the torches on the walls are barely needed. The are in the White Realm.

They both walk straight to the holes and speak their weapon of choice, which is the last of their five. They step back to their positions with scowls on their faces. The familiar lightning bolts strike them both and as they fade they both hold their weapons.

Bwind22 is holding the Longsword. He holds it in both hands and smiles as he looks across at Scouse Mac who is brandishing, like Bwind22 did last round, the Halberd. Neither of them even jump when the voice booms down on them.

"FIGHT!"

Both of them run at each other, letting out war cries as they do, the ferocity they had been keeping down for fear of losing their concentration set free. They both swing their weapons. The long sword slashes across, cutting off millimeters of Scouse Mac's hair. The Halberd blade then comes in, but Bwind22 ducks and it soars over his head.

Bwind22 pulls the Longsword back, then drives it directly into Scouse Mac's heart. He yells out in pain and drops the Halberd. Bwind22 pulls back the sword just as it dissolves into sparks of white. He leans down to Scouse Mac's body and wipes his hand across the wound. He smiles as he wipes the blood over his forehead and licks his fingers.

As the wound in Scouse Mac heals, Bwind22 quickly reaches for the Halberd, but as he touches it, a flash of white sends him one hundred feet into the air, straight to the ceiling. He grabs onto an ornate carving of a demon's face set into the ceiling by one his fingers and dangles there, barely holding himself up. Scouse Mac gets to his feet and looks around him. He looks up at the sound of Bwind22's struggles and smiles. He picks up the Halberd and holds it at the ready.

His fingers weaken and Bwind22 falls from the ceiling, flailing around as he does. Just as he nears the stone floor, Scouse Mac swings the Halberd up vertically and it cuts Bwind22's torso and head in half from groin to head. The two pieces slam down to the floor in a bloody mess of bones and guts. They glow white and all fit back together. Bwind22 winces in pain as he moves and Scouse Mac winks at him.

"NEXT GATE, SCOUSE MAC!"


Bwind22 used the longsword to inflict 4 damage to Scouse Mac

Scouse Mac: 12/25 health

Scouse Mac used the Halberd to inflict 3 damage to Bwind22.

Bwind22: 9/25 health

Same as before, can I please have the gate and your weapon choices. Remember, you may now use each weapon once every two turns. You have until 12:00pm EST on Tuesday. Don't be late...

[scouse mac]

White 1......

[The Gate Master]

Once again, no pleasantries or even jibes are exchanged as the two contestants limp through the first gate. They appear in the room of blood red walls. They are in the Red Realm.

The two of them are reminded by the booming voice of the rules and walk over to the holes in the walls where they speak their choice of weapons. They each laugh to themselves slightly as they walk back to their spots, proud of their decisions. Confident. The bolts of lightning strike them both.

Bwind22 is holding the longsword, his hands clutching the handle so tightly with anger that they have a slight purple tinge to them. But not only is he holding the Longsword, but he is wearing the solid silver Plate Armor.

Scouse Mac looks back at him holding similar looking objects in both hands. In his right he holds the Scepter, it's golden handle and ruby red stone glinting in the light of the torches. In the other, he holds onto the Mace, it's dull grey color not matching the other weapon.

"FIGHT!"

Before Bwind22 can even run two steps, he is launched backwards by the red energy expelling from the ruby tip of the scepter. He smashes hard into the wall behind him. There is a hole in his chest one more, but it appears the metal armor took a lot of the impact, it's dented front painfully digging into Bwind22's chest. The hole heals and Bwind22's eyes open.

Scouse Mac laughs and runs to Bwind22's body as he is still getting up. He flails the mace up high to swing it down but as he stands over Bwind22, who is still hunched down, the longsword drives up into the bottom of his jaw. Taken aback, he drops the mace.

"Not...that...EASY!"

He puts a bit more force behind the longsword and it painfully jabs at Scouse Mac's brain. A slight tear drops down Scouse Mac's cheek, then Bwind22 thrusts the sword up through his skull, and no sooner has it broke through the bone than it fizzles out into red sparks. Bwind22 gets to his feet and spits on Scouse Mac's body. The wound glows red, then heals.

Bwind22 calmly sits down, knowing that there is no other alternative than to accept the pain that is about to consume him. He closes his eyes as the sound of the mace being picked up echoes through the halls. "Scum." Says Scouse Mac bluntly, then the sound of whooshing slightly, and Bwind22's brains are scattered all over the floor. They glow red and piece back together,

"NEXT ROUND!" Says the voice of The Gate Master.


Scouse Mac used the Scepter and the Mace to inflict 5 and 4 damage to Bwind22, however the plate armor reduced these amount to 3 and 2.

Bwind22: 4/25 health

Bwind22 used the Longsword to inflict 4 damage to Scouse Mac

Scouse Mac: 8/25 health


The next round could be the last...make it memorable. You both know the drill by now. Bwind22, it is your turn to choose the gate. Remember...your choice may benefit you in this last round. And both weapons to me. The deadline is Sunday at 12:00pm EST. Don't be late...

[The Gate Master]

The deadline has long since passed and I have yet to hear from Bwind22. I will warn you now, you have until 12:00pm EST tomorrow or I will be forced to choose a random gate a weapon for you. This will be the last warning I give on lateness.

[bwind22]

I was out of town all weekend (I mentioned it in the Franchise GPA thread.)
Thanks for waiting. I'll send it right now.

[The Gate Master]

A random gate is chosen...RED 2

The two contestants limp painfully through the gate. Bwind22 is clutching at the side of his head whilst Scouse Mac is coughing up small amounts of blood. They appear in the Blue Realm. The dark walls are cracking slightly, and don't look nearly as strong as they had before. The sounds of the creatures outside, scratching, are also audible.

They walk over to the holes in the walls and speak their weapon choices. Then, as usual, they step back to their positions and the blue lightning strikes them both. As it clears, they are each holding their chosen weapons. Bwind22 is holding the War Hammer. It is obviously heavier to him now than when he started.

Scouse Mac is holding the Crossbow. Before Bwind22 can react, Scouse Mac fires a bolt straight through his groin. He staggers backwards and yells in pain, then another bolt shoots through his neck. He moves his arms to try and clutch the wounds but then the third bolt pierces through his skull, just above his eyebrows. His body falls limp to the floor, and the bolts spark, and disappear.

The wounds heal and he stands up, holding the warhammer.

"You know what's coming..." Says Bwind22, walking toward the stationary Scouse Mac.

"Go fu-" The hammer smashes straight into Scouse Mac's crotch. Scouse Mac's eyes widen and he lets out a blood curdling cry of pain.

"Yeh...and that didn't kill you did it. You're gonna have to take that pain. And then.."

The damage obviously begins to heal, and Scouse Mac screams in even more pain as his body painfully corrects itself. He stands up painfully and both men glare at each other.

"NEXT ROUND..."


Scouse Mac used the crossbow to inflict three points of damage on Bwind22

Bwind22: 1/25 Health

Bwind22 used the War hammer to inflict three points of damage on Scouse Mac.

Scouse Mac: 5/25 Health
You both know what to do. It is Scouse Mac's turn to choose the gate, and of course, both send your weapon choices in. Remember, speed is going to play an important part in this...

You have until SUNDAY at 12:00pm EST. Don't be late...

[scouse mac]

gate 3........

[The Gate Master]

The contestants are about to walk through the gate chosen by Scouse Mac, when suddenly.

"Wait." Says Bwind22

"What?" Replies Scouse Mac, looking puzzled.

"We both know what's going to happen when we go through there. I have no defense. You have superior weapons. I'm going to die, and you're going to kill me."

"You knew from the beginning that you might die. Why suddenly now are you worrying?"

"I'm not. I just don't want to be saying all of this whilst I'm dying. I've always wanted to die fighting."

"And what makes you think I'll help you with that?"

"Because you know what it took to get this far, and you know that you'd want your death to be worthwhile."

"Is there a point to all of this?"

"I just want to take this opportunity to say...good work."

Scouse Mac hesitates for a moment, then replies.

"You too, man."

"Thanks...let's go through. But the second we do...things are back to normal. This is just...another round."

"I wouldn't expect it any other way."

They walk through the gate and arrive in a large hall of dark stone. They are in the Black Realm. They walk over to the holes in the wall and speak their weapon choices, then walk slowly back to their places. For a moment, their bloodshot eyes meet, and both simultaneously wonder; was it all worth it? But then, the lighting strikes them both.

When it clears, Scouse Mac is holding the Scepter, the jewel tipping it now a deep black colour to match the walls around it. The jewel reflects the light of the flames and momentarily shimmers on Scouse Mac's face, highlighting the bruises covering it.

Opposite, Bwind22 is holding the Longsword, it's blade glinting menacingly in the light of all of the torches. He clutches the handle so tightly that veins rise to the surface of his skin and his hands turn a deep red colour, like the blood stained clothing he and Scouse Mac wear.

"FIGHT!"

Instantly, Scouse Mac Points the Scepter forward and the energy, a black swirl traveling up the handle rushes from the jewel at the end, much larger this time, coming out as a wave of what looks like both liquid and gas. At the same time, Bwind22 swings the sword and throws it, directly at Scouse Mac.

The energy reaches Bwind22 and suspends him in mid air. The mist pounds into him, stripping the skin from his body, working like a massive sand storm. His eyes are ripped to pieces and his throat tears apart. His fingernails are torn off and his muscles shred. As that happens, the sword spins through the air and the blade moves in such a way that it smashes into the gap between Scouse Mac's neck and his collar bone, then continues moving, tearing at Scouse Mac's neck which spurts blood. He yells in pain as the sword leaves his body and fizzles into black sparks.

As his wounds heal and he painfully pulls himself to his feet, he looks up to see Bwind22, still hovering in the air, the energy is gone, and he appears to be healed. But then, his body repeats the process of being ripped apart. His face is contorted in anguish. Scouse Mac is puzzled, then, steps backwards as a familiar sight appears in front of him.

The swirling ball of energy which took him to The Gate Master's realm is there. Somebody steps out of it. Scouse Mac gasps. It's him! He frowns in disbelief. It is definitely him. The only change is that he is wearing a strange red robe.

"I am The Gate Master..."

"I gathered that!" Replies Scouse Mac. "What's the matter? Will your true form kill me if I see it, or are you just not very inventive?"

"True form? I have no true form. I take the shape of the most powerful creature in my surroundings, and currently, that is you. You've won, my friend."

"I'm no friend of yours..." Scouse Mac glares at The Gate Master who merely smiles back.

"Well, you certainly did pull a number on him!"

He turns to look at Bwind22, still being ripped apart by the invisible energy.

"You certainly chose the right realm! Boosted the power of that scepter!" He chuckles.

"What's happening to him?" Questions Scouse Mac.

"Oh, he didn't win, so I'm afraid he is forced to relive his death. I will move him to the same dimension as our friend Papillon Noir. Of course, their paths will never meet! But there, he will live for eternity." The Gate Master shows no emotion for Bwind22.

"Now..." The Gate Master steps to the side, to show that he was standing on a trap door. It opens, and a bright light shines through. There are stone steps leading down into it. "You are free to go."

"What?"

"You may leave, if you so wish. I recommend you do. I will let the creatures in to clear up the blood from the realms soon. And they don't tend to leave any scraps uneaten."

"No...that's it? I just leave?!"

"Yes." The Gate Master nods.

"All those people have died, I nearly died, I endured all of that CRAP and I just leave? Nothing for me at all?!"

"Well of course there is. I didn't tell you? As soon as you leave, you have the power to move freely from dimension to dimension. I'd be careful of some of them though. The green ones usually have some nasty creepy crawlies!"

Scouse Mac turns to look at Bwind22, nods and repeats their earlier words.

"Good work."

He then takes a last look at the halls where so much has happened, then, walks down the stairs into the light, which engulfs him as he is sent back home.

The Gate Master walks over to Bwind22 and looks straight into his eyes.

"You've got an appointment in limbo. Don't be late..."



Scouse Mac used the Scepter to inflict 6 points on damage on Bwind22, killing him.

Bwind22 used the Longsword to inflict 4 points of damage on Scouse Mac

Scouse Mac: 1/25 Health


Ceremony to follow...

[The Gate Master]

I hereby declare that SCOUSE MAC is the winner of the 2009 HDC Fight of the Realms. He is the CHAMPION OF THE REALMS and will remain so forever more. His face has been carved into the top of the archway leading into the maze of death and pain.

Congratulations Scouse Mac, I see that this is not the only challenge you have won. It is a good year for you my friend. You definitely deserved it, after putting in so much effort to each challenge put in front of you. Not all of them were easy, and there were times where it looked grim for you, but you pulled through. CONGRATULATIONS!

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p255/ferretchucker/Scousewins.jpg

And congratulations to Bwind22, who came so close to victory and in the end left Scouse Mac as close to death as possible. You did very well, and I enjoyed reading all of your answers in the challenges. Thankyou both for all of your effort. And of course, Papillon Noir, who battled her hardest through the first two rounds.

And then there were the others. Many of you tried very hard and put in a lot of effort, like Nightmare of Death and Neverending. But all of you, I thankyou deeply for letting this happen. There isn't much else to say, other than...

See you next year, HDC. Don't be late...

[ferretchucker]

As my Alter Ego said, Thankyou all those who participated. I had fun, I hope you did too.

[ChronoGrl]

Wow. Champion of the Realms AND Battle Royale Champion? Hail to the Blue Wolf!

And good show, Ferret. Sorry I couldn't stick around longer in it.

[bwind22]

Good job Scouse!


Thanks FC! Cool Game!

[neverending]

Congrats to Scouse Mac.

Well done Ferret!

[scouse mac]

Thanks for everything you've done in creating this tourney, FC! I appreciate the time and effort you put in in creating and marking the challenges.

Special nod to Bwind & Papillon Noir who got through to the final stages, I really enjoyed reading your challenge entrys and you both ensured the competition was especially tough!

Thanks again Ferret.

[Papillon Noir]

The energy reaches Bwind22 and suspends him in mid air. The mist pounds into him, stripping the skin from his body, working like a massive sand storm. His eyes are ripped to pieces and his throat tears apart. His fingernails are torn off and his muscles shred. As that happens, the sword spins through the air and the blade moves in such a way that it smashes into the gap between Scouse Mac's neck and his collar bone, then continues moving, tearing at Scouse Mac's neck which spurts blood. He yells in pain as the sword leaves his body and fizzles into black sparks.

As his wounds heal and he painfully pulls himself to his feet, he looks up to see Bwind22, still hovering in the air, the energy is gone, and he appears to be healed. But then, his body repeats the process of being ripped apart. His face is contorted in anguish.




Whew! I'm sure glad I didn't get second place! ;)

Congrats Scouse! This sure is your year. :) Congrats to Bwind as well since this was a very close competition between the two of you towards the end.

Thank you Ferret for a very enjoyable and interesting competition! Can't wait to see what you do with it next year! :)

[ferretchucker]

Your all very welcome, but as I said, it wouldn't have been possible without you all taking part as well. Thankyou. And The Gate Master will return next year!