Preparation

[DoF Archive]

Date: 10/29/1997 2:40 AM Central Standard Time
From: J Oaknshld


It was a late Tuesday night, most of Rhydin had gone to bed. The streets were quiet and the Red Dragon Inn was calm. Unable to sleep and determined to make good use of his time Jeff headed over to the Outback. As the pushed through the doors and stepped into the room his gaze scanned it quickly and determined he was indeed alone. Stepping into a ring he stood silent and motionless for a moment, closing his eyes and letting the atomsphere of the
Outback take form in his mind. Coming to, the dwarf readied himself to duel the shadows that faced him. Snaping out sharp quick jabs into the darkness he punched through the air with precision. His steps dancing about the ring as he spun his body about, dodging the attacks that came. His focus intent on improving, he had passed the test of his rank, and yet a far greater test still remained. He was expected to be the representation of the
sport, both in skill an character, failure was not an option. Always with good intentions, his critics still lurked, hoping to catch glimpse of a flaw or mistake. Still moving in the ring he lashed out again at the shadows, kicking with unbridled aggression, flowing from move to move. His attacks fluid and his defenses sound, and yet he continued as practice and repetition would be his only weapon. Undaunted and determined to make a good
impression on this community the dwarf pushed on. His duel in the ring much like his duel in life. Fighting the unseen enemy, no move seeming to work, his advances seemingly getting him nowhere fast. But shining in the darkness was the diamond, a symbol of tradition and honor in the Outback, guiding him through the rings.
Practicing long into the night he fought the shadows, his fist piercing, his kick slashing at yet he gained no ground. Tiring and longing to get home to his wife he bowed out to the shadows and stood down, hoping through the ropes and heading back through the double oaken doors. As he headed out of the Inn for the night he thought of the week ahead and it brought a smile to his face. Preparation was the key, would he be ready to face his
opposition? The dwarf had no answer for his questions except that only time would tell and that the journey to the end would be an enjoyable one, whether he succeed or failed in his endeavors. He strolled home that night with an optomistic anticipation of the week ahead. The rings, the duels, his responsibilities, the fun...it all would all be there waiting for him, he need only take it all in and make the best of it.