Tactics (Auric)

[Aqua]

I can hear you're heart beating, sinking, like a wave.

[/size]

"Sir... are you sure about this?" A young woman simply known as Aqua was looking over a clipboard which showed her information about they're "hired help"- you could tell by her stony expression that she didn't really seem to like this idea. Really a mercenary?! What was the Headmaster thinking?! She put clipboard down on the head of Balamb's desk quietly as the man looked at him fingers laced. "You may be in SeeD Aqua, however this is my decision do not overstep your boundaries." Aqua couldn't help but speak up- she didn't trust this hired staff at all...

Even if she hadn't met him yet! It just gave her a bad vibe... "But Sir! How do we know we can trust him? How do we know he won't attack one of our students?!" She protested her hands slamming on the table as her oceanic eyes narrowed swimming with worry and protectiveness. The Headmaster sighed before leaning back in his chair fingers still laced as he gave the Keyblade Master a firm look- one that took Aqua aback quickly- she was sure she saw that expression on someone in the past... But who? Mentally shaking her thoughts away her eyes lost their icy edge to them though she was still firm. "That's why I am having you elevate him- I trust you're skills as a warrior Aqua, I am confident that you will be able to give him a test that will show if he will remain loyal or not." Explained the man as Aqua once again was taken aback.

"M-Me? Sir I-I couldn't! I don't deserve such a task and-" The Headmaster cut her prattle off quickly seeing as this was getting nowhere. "It's alright Aqua, I put my greatest faith in you- he will arrive tomorrow, by then you should have you're test set up by then understood?" Aqua stayed quiet and only nodded numbly. "Very well Dismissed." Aqua pulled away from the desk as she walked silently out of the Headmaster's office- She would have allot of thinking to do...

The next day Aqua was in slightly better moods than she was last morning, she thought over most of the evening and night of what type of test she would be giving this man- Auric... Something told her that she should be careful around this man if anything. As for Aqua's test it was quiet simple- Auric would be tested on matters of the mind heart and body. The mind and heart part of the test were simply questions that Aqua would ask him, though heart would take things a little more differently than mind. As for body that was self explanatory a spar with Aqua herself to determine his combat skills, if he would show mercy or attack with fury that was to see.

Looking up at the high noon sun Aqua waited in the Balamb courtyard waiting for the new help that would arrive. Hearing the sound of feet crunching into the earth Aqua turned around all darkened thoughts erased from her mind as she tried her best to be kind and greet the newcomer. A smile was placed on her mature face, inviting and sweet. "Welcome to Balamb Garden Auric- I will be you're Examiner for today." Now that the ride was starting it was time to get it into full gear...

[Auric]

SeeD
Elite Mercenary Force

I'd been hanging around the Western continent, doing as I'd originally set out to do. That is to say, I've been trying to set up safe houses and expanding my client list. There's many mercenaries out in the world, but my status brought me up as one of the best there is even in this calamity-stricken world. Hell, I might even be the very best although you'll never catch me saying so... modestly and all, plus hey there's room for the unknown. Still, I'd been contacted with a job offer from an organization called Garden to help train SeeD. I don't know everything -- or even pretend to, so I naturally I had to do my research. I was impressed, actually... I was sent a digital manual with information that outlined everything that was Garden. And SeeD.

I don't need to mention that I took them up on the offer, do I?

---

Auric's prices weren't cheap. It wasn't "a little bit of money"... in fact, truthfully speaking Auric had more gil to his name than he honestly knew what to do with. It was why he was buying out land and properties for safe houses... having that peace of mind that you'll always have someplace in the world to hang your hat was something he could afford. And honestly, his good sense told him to avoid buying or setting up weapons projects until he'd seen what the world had to offer -- after all, there were a few legendary weapons out there and he wouldn't have minded being able to own one of his own. Still, he'd have to see them first... and the various technologies offered before funding a project to develop his next hurt-stick.

But Garden seemed rather eager to have him on board. When he received the job details and its initial offer, he was more interested in the job itself -- to be an instructor. He liked teaching, which always surprised him. Supposedly the idea of someone you've trained succeeding in what it is they set out to do is one of the more fulfilling achievements in life and he wouldn't have disagree with that. Still, he did enjoy the many benefits that came with working this job... after all, joining up with Garden and succeeding in their qualification exam would mean he'd be a special kind of SeeD... enjoying the benefits of having a room and access to their facilities he couldn't help but feel that this was more like joining a well-funded club.

It had been quite the walk. Garden had offered to have him transported by vehicle but he preferred hoofing most of the way. Plus, he needed the chance to survey the outlying land to verify his compiled map. Olive-drab tank top covering his torso and dark brown pants, his hair groomed by the blowing wind. He was carrying a small travel pack that he slung over his shoulder, bandages covered his upper right arm with [Reverse Charity] secured in a leg holster of his right thigh. As he approached the Garden's front gates, he was greeted by a blue haired woman who looked capable enough herself. He'd received her picture and name... after all, she was set as his point of contact.

"Glad to be here. It's Aqua, right?" he confirmed as he offered her a warm smile, being sure to take a quick look at their surroundings. "I'm sure it'd be best if we got underway... so, what do you need me to do?" he asked, shifting his pack to his other shoulder.

Aqua. First impression? Nice enough girl.

[Aqua]

"Oh, you're mad our you wouldn't of come here."- Cheshire Cat

Aqua nodded, "Right straight to the point I see." She smiled seemingly satisfied for the moment. "You don't have to worry about using you're muscles for this part of the test, this part of the test is one of the mind, so no weapons or such are needed for this exercise." Aqua seemed to lax into a teacher role without even realizing it her voice was calm and firm yet still held that gentleness in it, something few were capable of doing without trying. "Don't worry there's no paper or pen for this, just me asking you questions- alright?" Giving the outsider merc some space she turned serious, recalling something that she felt she felt before but could not for the life of her remember the source let alone the voice.

"First question- There are two warriors, one of vast wealth the other of a poorer background. They both are vying for the same woman in which both had grown up around for years. The wealthy warrior has class, edict, and presents at his finger tips- she showers the girl with gifts of perfumes, jewelry and silks. The Poorer Warrior, had little to give her, he could only promise her his love, dedication and faithfulness. The woman however is a person who believes in "Divine Love" above all- now, who get's the Girl? The Wealthy Warrior or the Poor Warrior?" Aqua paused to breath as she kept a small smile.

"Don't worry there's no time limit and remember there is more than one solution, also here's a hint- "Beliefs"." Aqua stood back arms crossed lightly as she waited, curious of his decision- this was a simple test of Morales, less of that of wit and logic but more of a personal one, if he would know the answer he would know that the woman would choose neither for a fact was that she was a servant of her God, she could not give up her faith. Tricky yet effective.

[Auric]

He wasn't one to like rushing things. Still, they wanted to test his qualifications first, to know that he was the kind of guy they wanted training their prospective SeeDs and someone who could even keep their current SeeDs in place. After all, he could just be some overpriced scoundrel who wasn't worth even half his own weight. But Auric? He was worth twice his weight in gil and clients were more than happy enough to pay. Still, he was a professional on the job.. despite his relaxed personality, Auric was someone you should never underestimate... his prowess on the field of battle was more than formidable.

It's funny, you know. These sorts of questions usually don't have a "wrong" or a "right"... they're just questions to gauge a person's intent. To test their character. What are they like? You can always ask someone to describe themselves but it's never enough... you needed to see how someone was, how they acted, and in what way. And if you wanted to make a good question that did exactly that, you had to be open to different personalities... to know which themes to dangle in someone's face, to see how they'd react. What Aqua didn't know, however, was Auric's gifts... as much as she was to observe his conduct and await his answer, she couldn't have known that simply asking the question was like telling him all about her.

Her disposition. Her feelings, the way she looked to him and how her face changed with each passing thought... they'd just met, but he could already tell you what type of answer she might have wanted to hear. But. This wasn't about deception... it was about giving an answer to help Aqua... and Garden for that matter, decide on what to think of him. Still, he knew there was a lot of information he would have like, but she didn't give it. It meant to have something simple and succinct. It also relied on preconceptions... like monogamy. It was no wonder Auric could have Aqua down to a T. "It's not my place to make that judgement." he began casually, knowing how that might have sounded apathetic. But that wasn't it -- and his answer wasn't finished. "It's not my choice, either. It's the girls'. Of course, whatever she chooses won't necessarily determine her fate, either." he went with being liberal. He didn't make assumptions. That was him... and that was what Aqua and Garden wanted to know about him. After all, he could have easily said that she would better pick her deity... but not knowing who the deity was or even the nature of the girl... it was too little to make a "right choice"... even from a moral perspective. Someone who made snap decisions based off momentary deep thought...

He was even scarier in battle.

[Aqua]

The wind blew silently as Aqua's hair was tossed in the breeze. Eyes slightly widened she never expected him to answer so thoughtfully and so deep! Reigning her composure she couldn't help but stutter on her first word. "T-That's very good Auric, I never seen such insight on that question before! Yes, I believe you're on the "mind" is pretty much over." She smiled as she walked over towards Auric as she summoned her keyblade.

"Now, don't worry I'm not attacking you- I'm simply using my Keyblade to peer into you're heart. You're own heart will be the test. I know it may seem confusing now, but you'll understand once I start." Pressing the key against his chest a white light enveloped them both as Aqua found herself within Auric's heart, not one to dawdle she quickly assessed his heart feeling out for the Light and Darkness that dwelt in all beings. She wasn't sure how she could do this till this day but her unique talent helped her gain trust with others better.

Besides what better way then getting the truth from the heart it's self? Blinking she noticed his Darkness was more spread out but not constricting or taking root within his heart as she would of though. Oddly his Light seemed just the same- making Aqua believe that he was a neutral soul, neither Dark or Light controlled him. She smiled- that was good. Hopefully he stayed that way... Breathing in she focused and before she knew it she was back into the world of the living. Pulling the Keyblade from his chest she smiled satisfied.

"I'm happy to tell you that I can trust you know Auric." Aqua said with warm smile. "You're heart told me everything I needed to know about you're alignment. I can't explain how it works but it seems so far only I'm able to do this..." Her voice trailed off as she slowly got lost in her thoughts before snapping back into reality. "Anyway, you passed the tests of Mind and Heart so know I think it's time for the final test." She grinned slightly before getting some space between them, Keyblade already out she took a more serious stance.

"The last test is the one of body. We will be sparring to test your strength. And just to be truthful, don't hold back just because I'm female." She winked at the merc before returning serious once more. "The rules are simple we continue the spar until one of us can no longer fight or one of yields to the other." Aqua's body became tense as she stood ready. "Ready than? Start!"

[Auric]

A keyblade. A key... that was a blade. But if it was a blade, shouldn't it have been pointy? And if it were pointy, did he really need that thing to prod at his heart? He amused himself with his own thoughts, playing with the idea that this girl had the key to his heart -- and that it was huge. Still, as much as was initially confused he let her have her way, a comedy gala occurring within the depths of his mind. But as soon as the tip of her keyblade touched his chest, images poured into his head. Like his life on fast forward, his feelings of guilt and happiness, sadness, anger and join coalescing as one. But his mind shielded it all... placed it out of context and made it difficult for her to altogether read... he hadn't been keen on exposing himself to anyone quite yet and his abilities enabled him to remain neutral under her appraisal.

"If you really wanted to look into my heart, I could have just bought you dinner." he joked , having listened to her approve of what she might have seen in his heart. The mental comedy continued as he wondered how it must have worked... whether she might have caught images of his experiences and whether or not said experiences were of him in more compromising positions. Like those of great intimacy and lack of clothing, he couldn't quite get a fix on how she might have responded had she seen that. Oddly, he got the impression that despite her looks she might have had a real fire in her. But leisurely thoughts would have to wait... being that now he had to impress her with a good old fashion fight.

Already in his mind he knew what to do... he didn't have to win or even fight in full-force but merely show that he was as capable as they at least needed him to be. After all, the smart man doesn't show his cards until he needs them... and he wasn't so loaded with testosterone so as to demand that all fall before his skills. Arrogance didn't give a person much credit and pride would never be his downfall. Still, as she explained what they were going to do he put his pack down and paced away, smiling softly as he returned her expression.

And so he began... his hand glowing white as he cast a healing spell upon himself, before his right hand dropped to his side and pulled [Reverse Charity] from its holster and pointing it at her, firing two successive shots.

---

Health/Damage
[hp=100/100]

Actions

Regen[Self] - Double Cut[Aqua]

• Regen - A weak spell that heals a single target for a small amount over time. This ability lasts 5 posts.
  
• Double Cut - The user is allowed an additional regular attack. (Weak [5] x 2 damage)
  
• Momentum - Every time an attack lands successfully the attacker is granted an attack power boost of 10%.
  

Status Ailments (Buffs/Debuffs)

• None
  

Cooldowns

• None
  

[Aqua]

Aqua faltered in her step as she heard his words. It didn't help the proactive images that she had seen withing his heart made her a little hot and bothered, though she tried to keep such feelings to herself. Decided to give a little barb to him. "Oh? You didn't tell that- I would of gotten reservations!" Smiling coyly she gripped her Keyblade to her side as she prepared for battle only for her to gasp as he attacked her dealing some damage to her. However she backed up and started casting her first spell "Lightning" quickly followed by a "Blizzard" spell. She wouldn't give him a chance to attack... "Take this! "Lightning!" A bolt of Lightning crashed down from the sky intended to hit Auric, whilst a frozen wind of ice shards followed when she called out her next attack "Blizzard!" hopefully at least one would hit it's mark. "Don't hold back!" She yelled before waited for any new attack...

[HP=90/100]

Thunder- [8/100] Damage

Blizzard- [8/100] Damage

Total Damage- 14

[Auric]

She was game to play, then, was she? That was a change. His memory had been locked so she couldn't have seen the specifics but perhaps her ability didn't need to see everything.... perhaps what she'd felt was the essence of the experience; the enjoyment -- the thrill. It was true he'd experienced such encounters many times, and there was a reason he had. It was a good feeling, undoubtedly, but he got so much more from such interaction than other people would... the things he saw when his partner was at the peak of the moment, the life that flooded them both near the end. But in Aqua, he could only observe the faintest evidence of what she'd seen... and wondered on what she must have thought.

His shots hit their mark, Auric prepared for reprisal only for her to call them out. He couldn't really understand why she really needed to -- and even as she summoned lightning to her aid to strike at him, he raised his hand lazily and slapped it in her direction, making her magic her own enemy while the ice shards caught him off-guard. It didn't hit anything vital, minor scraped being healed by the restorative energies that coursed within him. So he raised his weapon once more and took a shot at her, knowing she'd have to clear the distance between them before being able to strike at him with her keyblade.

"Why don't we have ourselves a side wager," he suggested, knowing full well the outcome of this battle long before it would play out. He figured he may as well milk what he could from it, as well.. "If I win, you let me treat you out tonight."

---

Health/Damage
[hp=97/100]

• Weak damage sustained (-8)
  
• Weak damage restored (+5)
  

Actions

Ruby Effect (Lightning)[Aqua] - Attack[Aqua]

• Ruby Effect [Magical Item Ability] - redirects magic targeting Auric to whoever he chooses. (8 damage)
  
• Attack - deals weak damage (5+1=6 damage)
  
• Momentum - Every time an attack lands successfully the attacker is granted an attack power boost of 10%. (2 hit successful= +20%)
  

Status Ailments (Buffs/Debuffs)

• Regen - heals weak damage every turn (5 posts)
  

Cooldowns

• Regen (3 posts)
  
• Double Cut (2 posts)
  

[Aqua]

Aqua was surprised to see that her attack was rebounded, sending the lightning back at her with a simple slap of his hand. Dodging the attack with a roll to the side, she smirked when she realized her Blizzard spell hit her target though wondered why he didn't show anything let alone discomfort? Deciding to keep her mouth shut she, went on the offensive only to nearly fall flat on her face at Auric's bold bet. A-A date?! Well he did say 'out to dinner' so it wasn't a date was it?

Seriously though she was a full time warrior (or so she told herself) she had no time for things such as- dating or anything pleasurable... The thought of pleasure brought back the memories she saw from his heart and she blushed again, the rosy color staining her cheeks. 'Focus Aqua! You can answer later- when the time is right...'

Reassuring herself she regained her battle position and began a graceful sprung leap forward Keyblade in hand as she attempted a close quarters assault despite he keyblade's shorter reach, but from where she was and the distance she cleared she should be at least be able to make a few swipes- unless he dodged of course. Landing down from her attack not sure if it it was successful or not she turned and replied. "I guess it would be okay- but- what would I get if I win?"

[/justify][/size]

Health

[HP=85/100]


Attack

[Basic Strike;; 5 {Damage}]


Magic

Waiting for Cooldown [one post]

[Auric]

You might be wondering why he wasn't hesitant on firing his weapon on his examiner. True, it's not as if people here practiced with dummy weapons but when it came to firearms it was a bit of a different story -- there was no holding back, after all; fire a shot and the bullet's set on its course. He was using training rounds. They would act very differently from that of a regular bullet and it would no doubt hurt but she'd be fine. As long as he didn't get her in the eyes there was no real risk of doing any lasting damage... not that he ever would, mind you, she was a good looking enough girl that he wouldn't spoil her features in such a friendly form of combat.

Oh, but their wager... he never quite said he'd take her out to dinner... although yes, that's what he did imply, specifically he said he would "treat her out tonight". That was a date. But as she motioned toward him he knew she was going to close the distance to attack; there was no reason for her to do otherwise unless she'd intended to precisely that with her keyblade. Fortunately, that was why he'd kept distance between them -- her approach would be glaringly obvious especially to one such as him. So even now, as she approached him, he watched her legs that told him of how she would get to him; her shoulders told him of how she'd strike. He dove to the side, rolling on his shoulder and bringing himself back to his feet as he swiftly strafed away -- firing a single shot at her back; a warning not to approach him without some tact. "Than I let you treat me out." he grinned, knowing what he'd just posed. This date was happening either way -- he wasn't going to lose so her winning was unlikely. But it all determined who would get the bill... and if she was tight on gil, he was giving her incentive to lose. He probably should have mentioned her odds at victory, though. "Not that you're going to win." he finished.

He wasn't hired because he was a slouch.

---

Health/Damage
[hp=100/100]

• Weak damage restored (+5)
  

Actions

Attack[Aqua] - Impenetrable

• Attack - deals weak damage (5+1.5=7[rounded] damage)
  
• Impenetrable - The user becomes invulnerable to damage, however they are incapable of dealing damage. The duration can be up to four posts.
  
• Momentum - Every time an attack lands successfully the attacker is granted an attack power boost of 10%. (3 hit successful= +30%)
  

Status Ailments (Buffs/Debuffs)

• Regen - heals weak damage every turn (4 posts)
  

Cooldowns

• Regen (2 posts)
  
• Double Cut (1 posts)
  
• Ruby Effect (2 posts)
  

[Aqua]

He dodged. Of course it was common sense, if you are being attacked on a full frontal than you dodge- yet still her mind had yet to comprehend it as she landed in a crouch looking back as he let loose a shoot from his weapon at her which she managed to barely move out of the way of, it grazed her but nothing more. Aqua understood what that shot meant however, it was a warning shot basically telling her not to be so reckless... Yes, she was not a reckless person- she always should remain calm and firm in battle not rush in like a blind fool.

She mentally reminded herslef to thank the man for that reminder. As a Instructor she must of become the tiniest bit of arrogant while teaching her students being undefeated.. Though they were only kids and that's why they lost. Shaking her head mentally she stood up as she silently called upon her Lightning spell as it once more crashed from the sky intent on hitting it's target.

She would wait and see what he did before she would attack, especially with a physical move which she wasn't the best at anyways. Before she could think however his next words caught her off guard again! "W-What?" She blinked and than narrowed her eyes slightly annoyed. "So you tricked me? You're an evil man Auric tricking an innocent young woman like me" She teased with a playful tone before smirking getting on the defensive once more. Oh- he would pay. One way or another.

Health

[HP=78/100]


Attacks/Actions

Dodge

Magic


Thunder- [8/100] Damage [Cooldown;; One post]

[Auric]

The only time being direct ever works is if you can overwhelm your opponent -- to take their defenses and make it so that it doesn't matter or what you have to lose is worth whatever payout your assault provides. With Auric -- deciding how much whatever action was worth was always a difficulty... sometimes, fighting like a moron was more effective than a master strategist. But if there was one absolute in battle when it came to Auric -- it was that, the longer you spent with him, your ability to defeat him drastically decreases. But this spar was to test for his qualification and as it came to be, he was keeping his opponent on edge. Her weapon, strange as it seemed was indicative of her power. Her ability to peer into his heart told him she wasn't as simple as she seemed and with each passing moment he learned more and more about her abilities... and intentions. With her intentions came her actions.

"I'm a Hero for Hire, Aqua." he grinned, reminding her that Garden was hiring him to be a valued SeeD instructor. As a combatant, if he proved superior it would speak volumes of his worth as a teacher... then again, the elite of Garden didn't make it a habit to hire people who were incompetent. Which was the purpose of this qualification exam. Although he knew this was routine, Auric never made it a point to sell himself short -- an opportunist, he didn't mind spending more time with the woman who was his examiner. No doubt she'd give him an orientation of the facilities around campus once he'd passed their test and completed registration and other formalities. They did get time off, that much he knew... students and instructors alike had schedules and curfew but he was a special case. Naturally, his status would allow him to take her out under the premise of business.

It was always likely she'd be his liaison. So it was all the more important that they got to know each other better. "I just know my odds." he stated, putting up his hand as he absorbed the lightning strike, his hand completely fine as the barrier dissipated; no damage being undone as he released his status of impenetrability and immediately went on the offensive, aiming his weapon once more at her chest and firing a single shot, smiling as he baited her to go after him. "Don't you like me, Aqua?" he taunted, immediately double tapping her chest the moment she made a move. Already he could tell what her next action would be. Like an old pattern. "Why don't we up the ante? On top of dinner, I get a kiss." he grinned, throwing more at her... oh, maybe she was distracted by the talk. But that wasn't his original intention.

---

Health/Damage
[hp=100/100]

• Weak damage nullified by Impenetrable
  

Actions

Attack[Aqua] - Double Cut[Aqua]

• Attack - deals weak damage (5+2=7 damage)
  
• Double Cut - The user is allowed an additional regular attack. (Weak [5+2.5=8(rounded)] x 2 damage)
  
• Momentum - Every time an attack lands successfully the attacker is granted an attack power boost of 10%. (4 hit successful= +40%)([if Attack hits]5 hit successful= +50%) [Passive]
  
• Intuition - Auric is Immune to Aqua's regular [Attack]. [Passive]
  

Status Ailments (Buffs/Debuffs)

• Regen - heals weak damage every turn (3 posts)
  

Cooldowns

• Regen (1 posts)
  
• Ruby Effect (1 posts)
  
• Impenetrable (5 posts)
  

[Aqua]

Aqua gave a mock glare at Auric's words. Showing she had some sense of humor in the light of battle, since this wasn't exactly life threateningly serious Aqua could find herself a little less tense in the situation. Just a little though. "I see that, and I am a warrior of Light and seeing as you are not a Dark warrior I can take it easy on you." Came her retort added with a cute playful grin. However Aqua was thrown off by his next set of words absently noticing her that her attack did nothing to him. "W-Wait a minute!" She paused her eyes wide comically as she tried to calm her mind.

"I-I didn't agree to that you pervert!" She was more shocked than serious but it still bothered her as she blushed crimson. She never had a date before and now add a kiss to it?! Ugh.. why did men have to be complicated why couldn't be like Terra? Wait- Terra? She blinked where did that thought come from? She barely knew Terra either.. But still... "Fine- you'll get a kiss as well but no more."

Her voice was firm at the end as she pointed her keyblade at him feeling normal attacks wouldn't do much against him anymore. "Time to get serious." Casting Blizzard at Auric's feet she attempted to freeze his feet and immobilize him.

Blizzard[8/100] Damage [One post cooldown]

[HP=53/100]

[Auric]

It was a fun thing to do with her... already he liked how she'd taken everything he had to suggest and say "yes" in her own cute way. She'd crumbled to his charm whether she really knew it or not... how could he tell? Well he wasn't forcing her. He was merely putting forth a bet and naturally she would check... even when, despite it all she was under no obligation to do so. But when the chips were down, her willingness to take him up on those bets essentially meant that she didn't mind doing those things with him. Being taken out on a date... or even kissing. But you can bet he was going to make full use of the opportunity... although he was a gentlemen he'd always have done it to make sure she would be happy to be on the receiving end.

He grinned and cocked a brow when she claimed to be taking him seriously. He honestly wondered what more she could bring to bare -- some sort of secret move she'd yet to use or some such. Well if she wanted to really test him she'd of course give it her all and he didn't at all mind -- after all, so far he'd been maintaining the advantage. Or perhaps she was just trying to save face in front of the bad ass mercenary who was charming the heck out of her? She was being cute either way. And as she went ahead and directed another magick at him he was well prepared to receive it. Or, you know... so he thought. As the bolt of ice coming at him dropped low and anchored his feet to the floor, he could only grin. "Trying to keep me down for yourself, huh?" he teased, amusing himself with the thought of Aqua wanting him all for herself. My, wasn't she greedy.

He brought his hand up, open-palm as a colorless orb manifested before him, pitching it right at her like backhanded slap and then bringing his hand forward as he threw another -- larger, this time as he wriggled his foot free from the ice. "Are you sure?" he challenged, smiling at the thought of the kiss being the end of it. "Because if you're going to take me seriously, that means you're going to try to win, right? Well if you're feeling confident why don't we up the prize? Let's say... if I win, you trust me to make sure you have a good time... and if you win, well..." he led on, as he walked rather casually to the side, thinking to himself another thing he could wager to make the offer irresistible for her. She'd already seen and experienced his heart... so she no doubt knew that whatever would transpire tonight, she'd be able to take him at his word. Ah, but he thought of it... crossing his arms and offering his raised bet, he put forth a proposition that had quite a lot of power to it. "... I do whatever you want for the night."

---

Health/Damage
[hp=97/100]

• Weak damage sustained (-8 hp)
  
• Weak damage restored (+5 hp)
  

Actions

Ruin[Aqua] - Ruinga[Aqua]

• Ruin - An attack that does moderate non elemental Magickal damage to a single opponent. (15 damage)
  
• Ruinga - An attack that does significant nonelemental Magickal damage to a single target. (25 damage)
  
  
• Momentum - Every time an attack lands successfully the attacker is granted an attack power boost of 10%. (7 hit successful= +70%) [Passive]
  
• Intuition - Auric is Immune to Aqua's regular [Attack]. [Passive]
  

Status Ailments (Buffs/Debuffs)

• Regen - heals weak damage every turn (2 posts)
  

Cooldowns

• Impenetrable (4 posts)
  
• Double Cut (2 posts)
  

[Aqua]

'His quips are starting to get annoying...' She thought sourly before pushing her thoughts back. Pressing her hand against the steel portion on the side of her breast her body was enveloped in a quick flash of white light, in the place of the Keyblade Master was Aqua decked out in deep blue and silver armor complete with a odd helmet with a visor to see through- obviously she must be desperate if she pulled out her armor. "I won't back down here." She spoke calmly as she summoned forth another volley of Lightning.

However unlike her original Thunder attack this Thunder attack formed from the expanse of her keyblade and arched out in a blast towards Auric twisting and churning through the air towards it's intended target as though fueled by extra power by the armor she was now encased in... Silently she watched as the Lightning drove at the "charming" mercenary as she steadily took the blows of his attacks, wincing in pain but not showing any outside feeling. It was hard to show when covered head to foot in magical steel after all... Eyes widening behind her covered face a blush rose once more as she tried keeping her voice level- did he ever quit?

"Alright, I'll play you're game but- when I win I would like you to know I enjoy fresh fruit and warm bathes servant~" She joked smoothly and took a more 'alluring' pose before settling back into a more combat ready formation. "Alright enough games- I say we end this quickly- what do you say Sir Auric?" Came her teasing tone once more from her covered lips.

HEALTH

[HP=13/100]

ABILITIES

Enchanted Armor;;

Magic defense and Attack is doubled for four turns.

[1/4 posts]

MAGIC

Thunder- [22; Damage] [Doubled Damage]

[1/4]

COOLDOWNS

Enchanted Armor [Four Post Cooldown] [1/4]

Thunder [one post cooldown]

Blizzard [One post cooldown]