Summary: Vogga decides to host a new kind of gladiator match; underwater.
Aquatic Disposition
The cell block was grim, with walls of black stone and high barred windows that only let in the barest of light. Torches lined the soot encrusted walls metres apart, casting deep shadows across the stone floor and water dripped in the corner, the pipes overhead too old and rusted to hold much at once.
Inside a closed cell, a boy lay shivering on the floor, his body only covered by a blue loincloth. At the sound of scraping metal, his eyes flung open, meeting the dank wall he faced. The sounds of footsteps echoed but he remained still, unknowing if the presence was for him or someone else.
The cell door opened with a sharp hiss, startling him. The footsteps pounded against his ear-drum but quickly came to a stop. The familiar scent hit him hard and an inward sigh followed as he forced him to his feet and face the person standing there.
"Morning, Shu'Rahn," said a tall, green Twi'lek dressed in robes of dark grey. "You have a training session in the Umbra arena. It would look bad if you were late. Get changed and come out when ready. The guards will escort you there."
"Yes, sir," said Shu'Rahn with a polite bow of his head.
After the majordomo left, the boy muttered incoherently under his breath as he removed the blue loincloth and replaced it with a black one that sat in the unlocked trunk at one end of the room. Instantly, Shu'Rahn searched the box at noticing something was missing; his sword. As he walked towards the door, he wondered if anyone else would notice. He stepped from the cell it closed on its own accord and he found two guards, both heavily shielded, waiting for him.
Without a word, they left the cell block and walked up a flight of stairs, down a long hallway and out into a hazy day. Clouds hovered overhead and fog stretched far out into the distance, following them to the northern side of the outer palace. The unwanted view soon came to an end as they entered into a circular building and coming through to the other side.
Within the arena, Shu'Rahn glanced around. The Umbra arena was where he trained when the training room was in use or being cleaned, the latter being what he thought more likely. It was identical to the Shadow arena but compact, with fewer seats. A hiss to the side, made his head turn and he watched as the door he walked through closed, the guards on the other side.
A feeling of discomfort passed through him as he was suddenly left alone and unarmed. Movement in the corner of his eye caught his attention and he glanced up. Tarquin Zain, Vogga's major-domo, stood in a viewing panel, his hands clasped lazily behind his back, his large eyes boring down on him.
A rumbling crackle sounded on the opposite side of the arena, snapping Shu'Rahn's head to the source. The other door had opened and out walked a towering figure with an object in each hand. It walked to the centre and turned before walking towards him. Shu'Rahn stilled, ignoring the pounding of his heart as he watched.
The slender figure stopped at fifty feet away, pausing to kick the lone silver sword on the ground towards him. Shu'Rahn's eyes didn't waver from the new person. It was a Jilruan. His blue skin was bright as were the glowing yellow eyes that stared at him menacingly. The indigo blue loincloth was the only thing he wore and he held two, thin silver blades in each hand, both of them still, hanging by his sides.
"Pick up your sword, boy," rasped the Jilruan, its startling white teeth on show. "You'll need it."
With his eyes still on the tall Jilruan, Shu'Rahn bent over and picked up the blunt blade, his fingers scraping in the soft sand it sat in. On standing tall again, the Jilruan launched forward, striking with one sword. Shu'Rahn jumped backwards, out of range, wanting a moment to compose himself and seize up his opponent.
He only had seconds before the Jilruan ran towards, both blades swinging, aurally cutting the air. Shu'Rahn gripped the hilt with both hands, pulling the blade in front of him, blocking the blow of his opponent's swords. He pushed backwards, putting spaces between them again. The Jilruan stretched to his full height, making Shu'Rahn feel incredibly small.
"Are you a coward, boy?" he taunted.
Shu'Rahn's eyes narrowed at the question and swung his sword by his side, looking over the blue figure a few times. The Jilruan attacked again, their sword clanging together loudly. Minutes passed and Shu'Rahn felt sweat seep through on his forehead, covering his brow as he fought with the assailing Jilruan. A yelp of pain echoed as a blade connected with Shu'Rahn's thigh, sending him to the ground.
He landed on his side and rolled away from his challenger. Getting back to his feet, he looked down. Despite the pain radiating through his body, the pain was minimal. A laugh at the other end, make Shu'Rahn look up. The Jilruan was already making his way forward, his strides long and his features set in a sneer.
The attack came quickly overhead and Shu'Rahn raised his sword and side-stepped quickly to avoid taking the full blow, slicing his sword across the alien's wrists. The thin cuts bled but were enough for the Jilruan to drop both swords, the metal clanging on the ground in a heap. Shu'Rahn raised his sword again but no attack came.
"Enough," called out Tarquin from high above him. "Bring on the next one."
The Jilruan bowed slightly, meeting his eye before turning away, back towards the door he had entered through. Immediately, it closed, leaving Shu'Rahn alone. He looked up to where Tarquin stood but he was no longer looking down into the arena. His attention was on the tall guard beside him. Shu'Rahn frowned faintly but had no idea as to what they were talking about.
After a few minutes, the door at the other end opened again, this time bearing a different sound. Booming footsteps echoed the entryway, turning Shu'Rahn's head to face the sound. A large animal stepped through the door which closed behind it. Shu'Rahn felt his blood run cold. The lifted its head, sniffing at the air with his large nostrils. It stilled, catching the scent of something and rotated its body to face him, its eyes glaring at him threateningly.
With the adrenaline left over from before still pumping through him, Shu'Rahn stepped forward, gripping his sword as tight as he could in his sweating hand and waited. The beast gave a sudden roar of fury before bolting down towards him. Shu'Rahn swallowed hard and jumped swiftly at the right time, whacking the creature on its back. But it did nothing. Shu'Rahn watched as it continued running and saw the armour plating on its back.
Shu'Rahn cursed under his breath, hating that he wasted an opportunity. Slowly, the arqet turned around and charged towards him again. It was repeated several times, as Shu'Rahn tried to find a weakness every time it passed but the only ones he found he was sure weren't going to work. As it charged for the seventh time, Shu'Rahn braced himself and jumped out of the way in time, rolling onto the ground and swiping at its back leg just above the split hoof.
The beast let out a cry of pain and wobbled but didn't fall over. Shu'Rahn felt his heart hammered against his ribcage and blood rush through his ears deafening him to everything but the arqets growls. He readied himself for another attack but a voice cut through the air distracting him.
"Enough," repeated Tarquin. "Vogga wants an audience."
Shu'Rahn took his cue and ran back towards the door in which he'd entered the arena, taking the sword with him. Once through it closed and he caught a glimpse of Geonosian guards trying to contain the beast still in there with their staffs. The two guards beside beckoned for him to follow and without a word, he did. They returned to the cells and Shu'Rahn knew why. It was so he could change and look presentable to his owner.
The cell door opened and he looked to the other side. Beside his trunk was a bucket with a cloth hanging over the side. Not wasting any time, he removed his loincloth, washed himself and placed the blue one back on, putting the black one back in the trunk along with the sword. With a knock at the door, it opened and he was escorted to the main room where his master already was.
Vogga sat on a raised platform, his major-domo by his side as well as two slave girls Shu'Rahn knew well, Rylla and Risa. The Twi'lek, Rylla, wore nothing but a yellow fishnet dress with matching string panties that complemented her green skin well. While Risa, a Zabrak, wore a traditional brass slave outfit fitted with red veils that flowed down the front and back.
"Come here boy," boomed Vogga.
Shu'Rahn approached and when he stopped, he bowed politely, making sure not to waver in his eye contact.
"All day I have been considering something new," revealed Vogga. "In a couple weeks' time, I will hold an event unlike any other before and you my boy will be a part of it."
"I would be honoured, sir," said Shu'Rahn when the Hutt paused. "What is this event?"
"You will do battle underwater," said Vogga, his voice lowering. "And I expect you to do well. The arrangements are made and we leave for Nar Shaddaa soon. Be ready, boy."
Vogga stopped and turned to whisper to his major-domo. The signal for him to be taken away was given but Shu'Rahn felt the need to speak.
"Master, if I may…"
"What is it, boy!" cried Vogga.
"I cannot swim, sir," said Shu'Rahn.
The enormous Hutt stilled briefly, his large round eyes resting on the boy, regarding him for a moment. "Then perhaps something should be done about that."
Again, he gave the order and this Shu'Rahn bowed and turned to leave with the guards.
The next day, Shu'Rahn found the gymnasium quiet and empty. He stood near the centre of the main room, waiting for the trainer to arrive. An expression of apprehension marked his young face as the seconds ticked by. A Weequay guard that stood beside him, his hands remaining steadily on his weapon did nothing to appease his uneasiness.
A few metres away there was a large, square pool that sat still and undisturbed. On the far side of the room was another but deeper pool with a diving board high above the water. To his side, three white doors led elsewhere but each one was closed. The high glass ceiling let in rays of sunlight that hit the clean, white walls, making the place shine. The grey stone floor was dry and cold under his feet.
The main door soon opened, gaining the attention of both people. They watched as a tall and muscular female Aquar stepped inside and instantly made her way over. Shu'Rahn quickly found himself staring. In the bright light, she stood out remarkably. Her turquoise skin and thick flowing green hair went well with the one-piece crossover swimsuit she wore. It tied around her neck and bust, her sides and stomach left exposed. The matching flat white boots she wore echoed around the room.
"I take it you are Shu'Rahn," she said with a light accent, stopping directly beside the pool.
The boy nodded. He felt his mouth turn dry. The nerves he felt before doubled at seeing her. This was real. It was going to happen. At a silent gesture from her, he walked over, the guard staying where he was. Standing closer, Shu'Rahn could see her features clearer like the fine scales across her skin, her big, round teal eyes and the horizontal slits where a nose should be.
"Let's begin," she purred. "Swim."
A loud splash sounded as she pushed Shu'Rahn into the pool. It caught the boy off guard, who immediately began to panic. He thrashed and wailed around in the pool, raising his arms up as he began to sink as though trying to pull himself out but it only made it worse. Before too long, he sunk to the bottom.
The Aquar's shoulders slumped and she gave an irritated sigh before diving in and retrieving him. She placed him on the side and hopped out easily. Standing over him she watched as he coughed and gasped for oxygen, his hands clenched against his chest.
"Up," she ordered.
Shu'Rahn followed through and got to his feet, albeit slower than he'd intended. When he was upright again, he met her eye. She looked unimpressed. Her arms were folded over her chest and her pale lips were pursed.
"Follow me."
Shu'Rahn nodded but said nothing. He followed when she turned and walked towards one of the three doors he'd noticed earlier. They made their way to the one on the left and she opened the door. A hiss sounded and one after the other, they walked through. With one look around, Shu'Rahn could already tell it was a changing room.
There were wooden benches in the centre with metal lockers all of different sizes lining the walls. The tiled floor was clean but looked to have what seemed like sand sprinkled over it. The Aquar approached one locked and opened it with a small key. She took out a pair of purple swim briefs that had two white stripes down each side and she offered them to him.
"These are for you to wear," she said casually. "Change into them and meet me back at the pool."
"Yes, ma'am," said Shu'Rahn instantly, taking the item of clothing.
The Aquar left the room and Shu'Rahn instantly took off his blue loincloth, and hung it up inside the locker, hoping for it to dry. He put on the briefs and with not wanting to keep her waiting he left and joined her poolside again. With a quick glance around, Shu'Rahn noticed they were alone. The Weequay guard was gone.
"I am Kindra Ebba," she said clearly. "And from your display earlier I take it you don't know how to swim at all?"
"No, ma'am, I've never had a reason to know how," he replied.
Instantly, Kindra held up her hand. "First, don't call me ma'am," she instructed. "I'm not that old and second we'll have to start from scratch. Perhaps a workout first, to warm up. Let's go."
Shu'Rahn nodded and followed her to the white door in the middle. It was definitely used to work out in. Equipment lined two walls while the other contained boxing apparatus and the middle was left mostly empty, save for the two swords and towels. The dark grey carpet beneath his feet was firm but not uncomfortable.
Kindra didn't speak until they reached the middle. "I want four rounds of sit ups and push ups, twenty-five in each round. Go!"
Instant shuffling was heard as Shu'Rahn moved into position. He lay on his back and started with the sit ups first. After the first round, he switched to the push ups. The second round went through at a similar pace as did the third but half-way through the last round of sit-ups Kindra held him by the ankles, making it harder and during the push-ups, she sat down lightly on Shu'Rahn's back, being careful not to use her full weight.
"Stand up," ordered Kindra when the rounds were over.
With Shu'Rahn back on his feet, Kindra took the two swords off the floor and handed one to him. She swung it skilfully in her hand and motion for him to step forward, which he did. The boy look between both blades and back at the trainer who chuckled at his expression of concern.
"Do not worry," she said. "The blades are blunt. No harm shall come to either of us. Now, show me your fighting skills." The hesitation promptly set in making Shu'Rahn's first few attacks weak and anaemic. Kindra faintly shook her head. "Do not hesitate with me as I will not with you."
The practice fight began as Shu'Rahn, with the knowledge given, attacked without any hesitation. It lasted for just under an hour before it came to an abrupt stop with Shu'Rahn lying flat on his back, disarmed, with the tip of Kindra's blunt sword poking him in the middle of his chest.
"Time to move on," said Kindra as she helped Shu'Rahn to his feet. "Follow me."
Kindra threw her sword down and they left the room and approached the pool again. Shu'Rahn felt his insides clenched at the sight of the water. After the experience before, he wasn't sure he was ready to go back under.
"Stay here," ordered Kindra.
She walked away, towards the changing room and disappeared inside. When she returned she carried one thing in each hand. Shu'Rahn could already see one was a pair of boots while the other was something he'd never seen before. The boots were thrusted into his arms while she held onto the other device.
"Those are AP Thruster Boots," said Kindra clearly. "And this," she added, holding it up. "Is a breathing device. The boots will help you to move quicker underwater and this will help you breathe."
Shu'Rahn nodded and placed the boots on slowly, making sure it was in place before taking the breathing device from Kindra. He gave her a questioning look. "How does it work?"
"Just pop it in your mouth. It will do its work," said Kindra. "Breathe through your mouth while underwater as these attached plugs go into your nose. Water will enter your mouth when you take a breath but the sponge will prevent it from going down your throat. If you panic it could shift it out of place and you'll drown. Understand?"
"Yes," said Shu'Rahn quietly.
Shu'Rahn put the breathing device into his mouth and set it into place. It felt odd. His mouth felt full as though stuff with food he had to swallow. After a few minutes, it became almost comfortable and he relax with the knowledge that he could swallow without eating the device in his mouth.
"Oh, don't talk with that in your mouth either," said Kindra. "It would be uncomfortable and mostly incoherent. Do just as I say and you'll be fine." Shu'Rahn nodded and Kindra dived into the pool, gently breaking the surface. She swam out to the middle and turned to face him. "Now, jump in."
Shu'Rahn stepped to the edge and looked into the clear blue water. To most people he was sure it looked inviting but to him it looked more like a cold and wet death. With a deep breath he did as instructed and jumped in. He sunk to the bottom, the boots did their work and he hit the wet surface gently. The Aquar joined him and swam closer.
"Can you hear me?"
Shu'Rahn's eyes widened a little but he nodded.
"Good," continued Kindra. "Let's begin."
When the first session ended, Shu'Rahn sat on the edge of the pool with his feet dangling in the water while he watched the Aquar swim. She was fluent and graceful in her strokes. It made him hope that one day he'd be able to do the same thing.
After an hour she hopped out of the water and wrapped a white towel around her waist before sitting down beside him. "Do you have any questions?"
"Did I do alright out there?" he asked quietly, looking down at his feet in the water.
"For a first time, yes," said Kindra honestly.
"You're not a slave, are you?"
Kindra chuckled at the question. "No, I most certainly am not," she denied vehemently.
"Then what do you do?"
"I'm a fighter, much like you," she replied with a kind smile. "I'm a gladiator and I'm rather good at it to."
"You usually fight underwater?"
"Yes," said Kindra, nodding. After a look at the time, her eyes broadened a little. "Use the refresher, last door on the right and get changed. I'll escort you back to Vogga."
Shu'Rahn nodded and did exactly what she said. He had a quick shower and changed back into his blue loincloth which was now dry. Back in the main room, he joined Kindra again and together they left the gymnasium and back into the main audience chamber.
Over a period of a few days Shu'Rahn's training schedule continued and got harder and more intense as the sessions went on. The workouts extended to include weights and boxing and the combat and swimming lessons were combined into one exercise as the swimming skills improved.
On the last day of his training, Kindra watched with interest as Shu'Rahn moved fluently and unhindered through the water, brandishing his sword at the same time, re-enacting the same moves he learnt from her. They were coming along nicely.
When the session ended, Kindra left the room, leaving Shu'Rahn to change again and a guard to watch him. She went to Vogga's private chambers and knocked on the door firmly, waiting for a response. Before long, the door hissed open, revealing a tall, green Twi'lek who seemed unimpressed by the interruption.
"Who is there?" demanded Vogga.
"Kindra, sir," said Tarquin, stepping aside to let her in.
"Ah," the Hutt breathed, his thick arms raised. "Kindra… so good of you to make time to see me."
"Of course," said Kindra with a bow of her head. "I would never just leave without giving you a report."
"Good," the Hutt murmured.
At the Hutt's request, Tarquin approached and amongst themselves, they whispered, leaving Kindra standing in front, waiting. While she did, her eye caught the four female Twi'lek's surrounding the gigantic Hutt. All four were different colours; yellow, green, blue and a pretty pale purple. And they wore the exact same outfit; fishnet dresses, albeit different colours, with matching panties and no shoes.
"Kindra, meet Meedee Mothocc and Baro Kappinus, my two lieutenants. They shall be working closely on this matter."
Kindra looked towards them and nodded her head in greeting. Meedee, the Gran returned it, his loose black shirt swaying with his movements. The Bith, Baro, seemed uninterested and looked away unhurriedly. They both wore matching black shirts, gloves, belts and boots, the pants being the only difference in uniform; the Bith's being grey.
"Sir, the boy's training is coming along well," said Kindra, getting to the point. "I believe another few days is necessary for him to become even better."
"Are his skills adequate enough to compete?" asked Vogga impatiently.
"Yes, but giving him more time will allow-"
"No more time is needed," snapped Vogga, dismissing her words.
Kindra bit her tongue. It was clear Vogga wanted him only as ready as necessary. It didn't fill her with confidence sending the young boy out underwater against something that could only be guessed at. With a shake of her head, she let it go. It was how fighters were made after all. She knew that very well.
"I hope you'll stay for the fight," said Vogga, his voice settling.
"Of course," said Kindra politely. "I wouldn't miss it."
"Good," Vogga murmured. "Your payment will be settled on the way out. I look forward to seeing you again."
With a final bow, Kindra walked from the room and went towards the main entrance of the palace. Halfway there, she stopped. Shu'Rahn was being followed by a guard, mostly likely on the way back to his cell and he looked in her direction. She offered a small wave which was returned and in seconds, he disappeared from sight.
The holding cell was nothing special; just three walls and an iron gate locking him inside. There was an upside in the fact that it was bigger than his cell and contained more. In the hallway outside he could see other cells, some empty, some occupied. The guard he knew was close by stood at the entrance, armed and ready for anything.
Mounted high on the wall of his cell, out of reach, was a flat monitor. The sharp screen showed a deep tank filled to the brim with water. It sat in the dead centre of the stadium they were in, parts of the crowd around it visible. In the tank, he watched as a muscular Draedan fought against a gigantic Dragonsnake.
The boy inhaled abruptly as the gladiator had a near miss. Seeing it made Shu'Rahn's heart race. He just hoped he didn't have to face anything like that. Looking away, he went to the wooden bench in the cell and sat down, clasping his hands together in his lap. He let his mind wander back to his training session and how he felt more confident after each one.
But that was now fading. The training had only lasted a few days and two days later, they were here for the competition. Shu'Rahn hadn't seen Kindra since the last day of training and he didn't know if he would see her again. If he knew Vogga, he guessed that the answer was probably not in his favour.
When an eruption of cheers thundered in from outside, Shu'Rahn rushed to his feet and looked up at the monitor again. The Draedan was out of the tank, bowing to the crowd with his silver sword gleaming in the sun, the blade smothered in a thick red substance. The large green Dragonsnake remained in the tank, its head drooping and its body limp.
An approaching guard made him jump back from the bars in fright. They opened with a screeching noise, Shu'Rahn giving an effort not to cringe as it did so. He knew why the guard was here. It was his turn next. Between fights there was always a break. To clean the tank and get whatever dead animal lay inside. It also gave the fighter an extra bit of time to prepare.
He was led to room adjacent to the entrance of the holding cells and pushed inside. The gladiator who had just won was the only person inside. He was changing out of his damp, silver wetsuit that stuck to him like a second skin. It revealed clear, green skin that glistened with the water that still dripped off him. He didn't even glance up when Shu'Rahn passed him, his eyes moving to his locker before going back to the other fighter.
"Congratulations on winning," said Shu'Rahn, stopping to commend him.
The Draedan's hands froze at the boy's words. He straightened, standing quite tall and turned so slowly to look at him. Their eyes met and suddenly, Shu'Rahn was worried that he'd said the wrong thing as the red eyes seemed to stare straight through him. Perhaps he should have said nothing at all.
"Thank you," said the Draedan with a slight bow. "I hope you do well."
Shu'Rahn showed his appreciation with a nod and walked towards the metal locker that was his and he took out a pair of red swim briefs, the AP Thruster Boots and the breathing device placing on the first two easily despite his nerves and shaking hands. He pulled the sword out next and kept it by his side as he left the room, the device in the other hand. He followed the guard towards the arena entrance. They stood in the hallway just beyond, waiting for the all clear signal.
"Hello, Shu'Rahn."
The boy turned at the voice that called his name. It was Kindra. She was making her way towards him. She looked happy although a little tired. She was still wearing the one-piece swimming costume that was torn across the middle that she'd fought in. Bruises were still coming through on her skin to go with the scratches she'd sustained.
"I hope you do well," she said, bending down to his eye level. "I know it seems scary now but you know how to do this. Just remember what you learnt and you'll be fine."
"Thanks," muttered Shu'Rahn, unable to say much more.
"Take these," said Kindra, handing him a pair of clear special lenses. "They'll help."
Shu'Rahn took them, placed them around his head and set them into place. Kindra fixed them gently and gave him a good luck pat on the shoulder. Drums boomed in the stadium, echoing into the entrance hall, making Shu'Rahn's head snap forwards. They were for him, signalling that things were ready for the next fighter. He heard his name called and the door in front of them opened. Water sloshed around in the tank and the cheers of the crowd became deafening.
With a final look at Kindra, Shu'Rahn shrugged and put the breathing device in his mouth before walking towards the tank, passing through the shield barrier that kept the water at bay. Shu'Rahn breathed slowly while glancing to the outside. From the inside, the tank looked smaller.
Before he could get himself together, a hole in the bottom of the tank opened up, letting out a sizeable figure that went straight for him. Kicking the boots together he flew upwards and out of the way. The creature flung itself to the side, its tentacles latching onto the side of the glass tank. The eyestalk swivelled and the red eye opened, narrowing on him.
The creature was at least six metres in length and had seven long tentacles that moved freely in the water. Shu'Rahn felt his heart leap into his throat. It was a Dianoga. He'd seen one before but never in person. They were more unpleasant than he thought. Three tentacles lifted, showing the fanged mouth underneath. It was a threat.
The Dianoga attacked, flinging itself off the glass and towards him, its tentacles outstretched. Shu'Rahn kicked his boots together again and took off to the side, avoiding it, but slashing his sword at it, hoping to hit some part of it. But he'd missed entirely and the creature stuck itself back onto the glass.
The second strike was quick. The beast moved swiftly barely a sound and two tentacles wrapped around his legs and turned him upside down in the water. Shu'Rahn gasped bubbles of surprise before swinging his sword, the blade connecting with the fleshy appendages, cutting them deep enough for it to let go.
Giving the blood a second to rush down back, Shu'Rahn devised a plan. He swam down until his feet hit the bottom and he looked up at the creature, waiting for it to charge again. The Dianoga made an indistinct sound before eventually lifting itself off the glass and soaring down to where he stood.
With a kick, Shu'Rahn flew through the water, pivoting around, swinging his blade. A scream of pain sounded through the water and Shu'Rahn did his best to cover his ears while moving away from it. With a passing glance upwards, he saw the crowd cheering, their arms waving in the air but there was no sound.
When he looked down, he'd realised what had happened. He'd cut off the creature's eye. Small drops of blood lingered in the water as the eye fell to the bottom. But it wasn't over. Blinded, the creature moved towards him. Taking a chance, Shu'Rahn grabbed the hilt of his sword firmly and hauled it at the beast. It hit it square in the middle, the blade sinking all the way through.
Another scream sounded and Shu'Rahn continued to swim up, this time as far as he could get and he looked down at the struggling organism below. The attempt towards him was still going but ended as more blood spilled through and the creature stopped, soon floating in the water, dead.
Shu'Rahn took slow, deep breaths as he watched it sink further. The side door at the bottom opened and observed four swimmers entering and removing the dead creature along with its severed eye. Once they were gone with the carcass, a gleam of silver caught his attention. His sword had been removed and let go of, landing on the bottom.
A rumbling sound grabbed his attention to the centre as the middle opened up again. Another creature climbed through, this one moving into the tank much slower than the last one had. It checked it surroundings and caught the boy's eye. The yellow orb narrowed considerably and Shu'Rahn gulped.
The bottom of the tank closed and the creature still moved slowly, crawling up the side of the tank towards him, its eyes never wavering. Shu'Rahn pushed off the top of the tank and kicked the boots together for a boosts towards the base. He retrieved his sword and looked up in time to see the creature, which he knew to be a Blixus, lash out and wrapped a tentacle around his arm.
With great power, it thrashed him about in the water like a rag doll, his vision swimming as his dizziness increased. The sword remained in his grip and blindly, he swung it around, hoping to hit something. And eventually, it did. He hit the tentacle holding him, the blade slicing right through, cutting off the end of the beast's appendage.
No sound was heard but Shu'Rahn could almost feel the anger radiating off the creature and it was directed at him. Swimming upwards quickly, he kept slicing his sword through the water, daring another tentacle to grab him. But each one was unable and when he came eye to eye with it, he smirked slightly.
Reaching back, he took aim and wrenched the blade into the creature's eye, ignoring the blood that poured from the fresh wound. The water moved side to side violently as the Blixus shuffled around in agony. Shu'Rahn reached the side of the tank furthest away from the beasts and held on to the slippery glass as best he could.
He watched as the Blixus struggled to hold on but as the minutes slowly passed, it faded away, floating to the bottom of the tank, just as the Dianoga had done. A small trace of guilt passed through him. He couldn't understand how painful it must be to be stabbed in the eye but he could imagine and he didn't like it.
More swimmers came through the tank and removed the animal. Shu'Rahn took the small break to look out of the tank. In the stands high above he could see Vogga and his entourage along with Kindra, whose face showed great concern. He pushed his emotions down, deciding to suppress them until this was over.
Without warning, the hole opened up again and this time, the thundering footsteps came from the creature itself. Shu'Rahn immediate thought was a Dragonsnake and his heart sank. He didn't know of another creature that made a similar sound. It took a minute, but soon, an enormous green monster emerged from the den.
Shu'Rahn swallowed hard, retreating to the top of the tank, fearing that the beast would take up the entire space of the container. The large, round eyes darted around but never stayed on him for very long but it was quickly understood that he was the target. The Queel water dragon roared through the water, making Shu'Rahn's heart race in his chest.
The boy shook with slight fear and his breathing increased. In his ears he could hear himself panting for air as he watched the monster straighten to his full height. The dragon's large mouth opened, showing its razor sharp teeth and long pointed tongue. It came towards him, ready to swallow him in one go but Shu'Rahn, with a kick of his boots, hurtled out of harm's way. It moved forwards and Shu'Rahn watched as its long arms extended towards him, the claws out, ready to maul him.
Gripping his sword tightly, he swung defensively, hitting one of its hands. It roared in pain but continued without pause. Shu'Rahn felt panic swell in his chest but not wanting to get mangled into little pieces, he moved out of the way again. The question of he was going to beat it instantly sprang to mind.
Only one answer came to mind. He'd have to stab it multiple times. Something this big couldn't be chopping into bits with his sword like the other two nor could it be stabbed once and be expected to go down. He knew something this size would take much more than that.
Knowing it moved slowly, Shu'Rahn carefully adjusted the buttons between his boots, hung onto his sword even tighter and kicked his feet together. The boy rocketed through the water with gliding ease and stabbed at whatever he could reach. Whenever contact was made bouts of fury howled from the dragon's mouth.
Blood seeped into the water, mixing with the blood of both of the Blixus and Dianoga, making the water misty. But Shu'Rahn eyes didn't leave the dragon as it was difficult to miss even with the blood mucking the water. It swiped and snapped at him when he came close, the last one making contact.
Shu'Rahn cried out from the pain and withdrew back to the top of the tank where he felt somewhat safe. Pain emitted in his back and he tried to look over his shoulder but he couldn't see how bad it was. Even with the amount of stab wounds it had incurred, the beast still lived. Shu'Rahn held his sword firmly downward, knowing he needed a clean shot.
When the dragon came closer still, he took his chance. He threw the blade down and cried out in triumph as it sunk into the dragon's head. The monster gave one last cry of pain before its life left it and the body descended to the bottom. Shu'Rahn remained where he was, feeling his guilt return.
Looking outside, he saw the crowd cheering. In his master's box, it was different. There was no cheering but he was relieved in seeing that there was no visible anger. One by one though the box began to empty and Shu'Rahn knew his fight was over. After more swimmers emptied the tank of the deceased dragon, he was called from the tank and put back into the changing room.
The party was in full swing. A band played in the corner, singers stood in front and dancers moved fluently up on the stage as entertainment. A rather full crowd had already gathered in Vogga's hall and decorations lined each wall. It was a celebration after all. It had to be grand, something that would be spoken of to others.
In the doorway, a female Aquar stood, scanning the room for the one person she needed to see. She found him quite fast as he was hard to miss. Vogga sat on a raised platform, a drink nearby and three girls standing around him, stroking his thick hide. His major-domo stood beside him, his eyes practically boring into hers.
"Ah, Kindra," murmured Vogga, sounding pleased. "Congratulations in your match today and with your work on the boy. It seems my faith in your abilities was well founded. You shall be well compensated for your work."
"Thank you," said Kindra politely with a small bow. "Is he unharmed?"
The Hutt waved the comment off and Tarquin answered for him. "The boy is a little scratched but it's nothing that won't heal in time for the next match he faces."
"Not too soon though, I hope," said Kindra, the polite tone receding but the smile remaining.
"Of course not," replied Tarquin with a forced smile of his own. "The boy will be allowed him to heal properly.
"Bring in the boy," called Vogga.
The order went to someone she could see. Doors were heard opened and closing and soon enough, Shu'Rahn emerged through the crowd, his blue loincloth back on. The scratches from the match were coming across clearly and the bruises were still rising to the surface. But other than that, the boy appeared fine.
"Master," said Shu'Rahn, acknowledging Vogga. "Miss Ebba. Has something happened?"
"No," said Vogga, his voice booming. "Your trainer wanted to see for herself that you were well and now that she has you are to go back to your cell. Guards!"
One Weequay and one human guard approached and removed the boy from the room. Kindra watched him until he was out of sight. A small feeling of contrition filled her with the knowledge that she got to leave while he had to rot in this place. She turned back to look at the Hutt and she found him, along with those around him staring at her.
"Your payment will be settled with Tarquin," said Vogga, pointing at the green Twi'lek. "By all means, stay and enjoy the evening with us."
"Thank you," said Kindra with another bow. "I shall."
After settling her fee, Kindra walked around the room, saying hello to several people she met along the way, some of which she knew. But she didn't stop to speak with any of them. Instead, she subtly left the room without being seen and walked towards the cell block. When she entered the right hallway she stopped abruptly.
A Weequay guard stood outside the door, firmly holding his weapon in position. Kindra looked him over and decided to take her chances. She strolled over, noticing how his eyes watched her every movement and upon reaching him, how his hand went for his comlink.
"I don't think you'll want to do that," said Kindra in a sweet voice.
"Oh yeah?" challenged the guard with a smirk. "And why is that?"
Kindra withdrew a small pouch from her pocket and jangled it in front of his face. "I'll give you a hundred credits if you let me see the boy for five minutes."
The Weequay stroked his chin with his fingers as he thought about it. Kindra gave him a big beaming grin while she leaned against the doorframe. She fingered her long green hair while keeping eye contact, mentally urging him to take the bribe.
"Five minutes," the guard finally agreed. "Any longer and I'll call the boss."
Kindra nodded her understanding and the door was opened. She walked inside and found Shu'Rahn's cell door open as well. The boy was standing in the corner, clearly jumpy as he didn't know what was going on.
"It's alright," said Kindra, holding up her hands. "I just wanted to speak with you as I didn't get a chance upstairs."
Shu'Rahn nodded and approached her. "Are you leaving?"
"I have to," said Kindra with an apologetic shrug. "Perhaps one day Vogga will need my assistance again but until that day, yes, I must go. I have other people to train and others to beat up."
Shu'Rahn chuckled. "I'd hate to be opposing you."
"Me too," agreed Kindra. "I just wanted to congratulate you on your victories today. Vogga may never say it but you did very well. If you keep this up, you'll do very well one day, I know it."
"Thanks," said Shu'Rahn quietly.
The guard at the main door cleared his throat and Kindra sighed. "I have to go," she said softly.
Stepping forwards, she placed her arms around Shu'Rahn and gave him a small hug which he instantly returned. With a ruffling of his hair, Kindra stepped out of the cell and left the cell block, returning to the main room. Vogga was still in the same place and deciding there was nothing else here, she went back over to him.
Tarquin held up a hand to stop her saying anything while Vogga spoke with a human guard who was whispering in the Hutt's ear. Kindra could just make out the last part of the sentence.
"Sir, we have found Mira."
"Ah, the beautiful redhead," said Vogga, pleased. "Send out my lieutenants and bring her to me."
"Yes, sir," said the guard before promptly leaving the Hutt's side.
Kindra watched the exchange with a frown on her face. She didn't know who this Mira was but for some reason she seemed important enough for capturing. Once the guard was gone, Vogga looked down at her and made a silent gesture.
"You may speak," said Tarquin.
"I'm sorry to say that I must depart," she said clearly. "Thank you for your hospitality and I hope we can do business again soon."
"Likewise," said Vogga, his green eyes narrowing.
With a final bow, Kindra turned and left.