Sunday, November 1, 2009

Exustio - Conflagration

The Lion's Den was an extremely run-down place. Its exterior appearance had gotten me thinking just how old the structure was. Getting inside and seeing its interior further reinforced my assumptions. The cracked floorboards... The chipped paint on the walls... The broken glass windows... The blinking light bulbs that dimly lit up the whole place... Everything was in poor condition. I could not imagine how this place could earn any regulars.

But apparently, quite contrary to my views, there were a lot of people present. No seat by the counter was left unoccupied and in addition, three tables were filled by men in eager conversation. Everyone inside the tavern had large muscular bodies. Majority of them wore sleeveless clothing, exposing their burly arms that were filled with a variety of tattoos. Some even went without shirts and quick glances allowed me to see their torsos, which were marked by scars and wounds.

Scars and wounds mark the bodies of a warrior... At least, this was what I thought. I felt as if I was getting closer and closer to accomplishing my mission. Surely, he must be here... He whose courage burns as that of a lion's spirit. My eyes wandered, scouting the entire scene. I was not sure how I would be able to tell who it exactly it was I was looking for but I was hoping for some sort of sign. There must be something that marks him different from all the rest.

"Hey!" I had gone too lost in my thoughts to even watch where I was going. By the time I realized my lack of alertness, it was too late. I had bumped into an incredibly intimidating man.

His bloodshot eyes met mine as he turned to face me. His large body came into full view as he glared at me, clearly angry at the disturbance I had caused him. I tried hard to remain calm but his overwhelming features had already succeeded in making my legs shake and shiver.

"I'm sorry..." The man seemed oblivious to my apologizes. He went on staring at me with his frightening gaze. I kept my ground, standing still as he lowered his face closer to mine. I held my breath against the foul stench of his. He reeked of alcohol and from that close range, it was clear to see that he was already intoxicated.

"A girl?" The drunk man gave out a horrid snort, followed by a series of boisterous laughter. "And a foreigner at that? Bah! Some place you picked to tour, girl! Bad move!" Then, he made a grab for my arm. I was too overwhelmed to move, let alone use any of my powers to defend myself. I managed to let out a scream but this seemed to have further amused the man who held me.

"
No use yelling, girl... No one would dare stand against me. I am the strongest guy in this here turf!" With his massive strength and size, he was easily able to push me to the ground. Luckily, in the process, he released his hold on my arm, giving me enough momentum to cast a spell.

Moving as swiftly as I could, I placed my hands directly on top of his face and yelled at the top of my lungs, "Inflammatio!" Raging flames came bursting from my palms, hitting the intoxicated man's face and causing him to stagger down. His fall caused The Lion's Den to shake. His continuous cries of pain caused the people by the counter and the tables to quickly abandon their drinks and flee for the exit.

I was able to sit up. I was panting, a bit stunned after my first attempt at offensive magic. I stared at the man who now lay quivering on the floor, screaming in pain. I had caused this...

I had caused this...


Exustio - Conflagration
-end-


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