026 VIDEO LIST TEN

[deadliestviper]

[Forget Tony Stark's recent re-introduction: what this broadcast lacks in an impeccable soundtrack, it more than provides for in terms of cool confidence. Beatrix's face is visible from a 3/4 angle, and she looks up to the communicator in her left hand. In her right is a long dark oblong, easily recognized by those who know weaponry as the grip of a Hattori Hanzo katana. Her face is cool, eyes emotionless, expression blank. She looks toward the camera and says clearly:]

Arthur King of Camelot, thanks your slur upon my honor and the honor of my esteemed Master Pai Mei, I challenge you to an amicable duel to first blood, your swordsmanship against mine. Let the ancient honor of my traditions stand against yours in a friendly match.

[Filtered to Ronald Sandoval, Narvin, Bruce Banner, and Riddick:]

Say one word about anything that happened this breach, and I will destroy you.

[Private to Bruce Wayne, Selina, Slade:]

I've got my sword back. Care to train?

Comments

[payshisdebts]

[ He's a lot more progressive than anybody gives him credit for. ]

Shall I not? Will it be an insult to you, my lady?

[deadliestviper]

[Oh, is that so? Let's see then]

An expected position, not an insult.

[payshisdebts]

I do not wish to cause an affront; in Westeros we bet on duels and wager on tourneys-- though some would frown upon wagering on a matter of honor. But as you do not intend to kill Arthur, I hope your grievance is slight and thus, easily mended by the blade.

[deadliestviper]

You've given me no offense so none taken. Were my argument with Arthur grievous, I'd not have announced my intent.

[payshisdebts]

Good. I prefer to give offense intentionally, rather than not. [ He smiles, slight and sly. ] Good. I should like to see this duel happen, then, and compare both your swordplay to my own world's.

[deadliestviper]

And how gentlemanly of you to do so. [She appears genuinely amused, maybe even a bit charmed, despite her sarcasm.] What styles does your world favor?

[payshisdebts]

There is the water-dancer style of Braavos, there is of course, Westerosi style favoring long swords... and I am sure there are many others, but I am not skilled in any of them.

[deadliestviper]

Tell me about the water-dancer and Westerosi styles.

[payshisdebts]

The Braavosi favor thin, narrow blades, a quick dancing style, light of step and agile. However, the Wersterosi favor the longsword, to be used on the field of war in heavy armor, most days.

[deadliestviper]

Do you have a favorite in between the two, or do you specialize in another technique?

[payshisdebts]

I favor neither, because I practice neither. If I must pick up a weapon, it is under duress.

My mind is my blade, and I hone it regularly.