(A man clad in animal furs and wearing a helm with antlers swings a sword made from sharpened bones and teeth at the screen.)
Forsworn: The rebels who seek to restore the ancient rule of the Reachmen through violent means...
(A Forsworn warrior tackles an Imperial soldier backwards before bringing his axe down on the man's head.)
Vs.
(An elf with his face covered in tattoos and wearing drakeskin armor swings a curved sword at the camera, followed by a swing of his dagger.)
Dalish Elf: Thedas' greatest hunters and masters of the wilds who defend their lands with lethal force.
(A Dalish archer shoots a human soldier in the chest with his bow before dropping the bear behind him.)
WHO IS DEADLIEST?!
To find out, we've assembled a team of world class fighters to test history's most lethal weapons. Using 21st century science, we'll see what happens when two warriors go toe to toe.
No rules. No safety. No mercy. It's a duel to the death to decide who is...THE FICTIONAL DEADLIEST WARRIOR!
Here in our elite fight club, we have gathered doctors, scientists and weapons experts to test out the lethal arsenals wielded by each of our combatants to determine who would win a fight between two warriors who never met in a face to face duel:
Forsworn
Appearing from: Elder Scrolls: Skyrim
Height: 5' 11"
Weight: 180 lbs.
Armor: Leather, Bone
Dalish Elf
Appearing from: Dragon Age
Height: 5' 7"
Weight: 130 lbs.
Armor: Drakeskin
"Today we have a battle between two warriors who are considered outsiders in their respective lands. They seek to hold on to their ancient ways and will do so by any means. On one side we have the Forsworn, the native Reachmen who seek to reclaim their lost lands and rule they believe was stolen from them. On the other side we have the Dalish Elf, who seek to recover, inherit, and preserve the knowledge and sacred treasures of the two fallen elven kingdoms," biomedical scientist Bradley Foster started.
"With the elves, you have warriors who are known for their speed and agility. They are also famed archers known for their lethal accuracy. With the Forsworn, you have big, powerful fighters who love to get up close and personal, two very different approaches to combat," trauma doctor Joseph Kaiser seconded.
"These are also warriors who bring very different weapons to the battle. The Forsworn are outlaws who are forced to get creative and hand craft their weapons from whatever they can find, be it stone, wood, or the bones of the animals they hunt. The Elves on the other hand, while also coming from the woods, still have access to stronger materials and superior craftsmanship," computer expert Eddie Cortez added.
"We also have to remember that both these combatants have trained magic users among their numbers, so it's going to be interesting to see the aftermath of said abilities put to use," Dr. Kaiser continued.
"Indeed it will be, but we've sat here shooting the shit too long. It's time to see what these guys can do," Bradley concluded.
The camera focuses on a dark-haired orc clad in animal furs with matching boots and gauntlets, in addition to several bones and skulls used as decorations. He holds a crudely crafted war axe with sharpened stone blade that he uses to chop a large slab of beef in half.
Up first to represent the Forsworn will be Borkul the Beast.
An Orsimer who serves as Madanach's loyal bodyguard, Borkul is an expert on the Forsworn's weapons and combat tactics.
"These elves look puny. The Forsworn would skin them alive and make decorations out of their bones," Borkul grunted.
The camera then focuses on a woman with her hair shaved into a Mohawk and wearing an animal skin outfit that leaves little to the imagination. She conjures up a stream of fire that immolates a foam target.
Also representing the Forsworn will be Kaie.
A Reachwoman who is skilled with magic, she brings a different approach that shows off the Forsworn's multi-faceted approach to combat.
"The Dalish will see what the Forsworn are all about and why we were so feared by even the mighty Imperial Legion," Kaie spoke.
Natives to a Hold known as The Reach, a group of rebels known as the "Forsworn" captured the capital city of Markarth during the Great War when its Imperial garrison had been drained. Believing themselves to be the rightful rulers, they sought to remove Nordic influence and restore the "Old Ways" of their people and established their own independent kingdom with Madanach as its ruler.
"Some called it a chaotic rebellion, but Madanach was returning us to what we were meant to be," Borkul spoke.
Following a brief rule, the Jarl Hrolfdir and his son Igmund organized a militia led by Ulfric Stormcloak in an attempt to reclaim the Reach from their usurpers, promising the freedom to worship Talos within the city. The militia successfully reclaimed the Reach from the natives during an event known as the Markarth Incident, killing off a large number of those they considered to be associated with the rebellion or in any way responsible for the city's fall. It was to become a key catalyst for the Skyrim Civil War. A large number of Reachmen fled the city, continuing their rebellion from the surrounding hills, becoming the contemporary Forsworn.
"We became criminals in our own lands, all because we wouldn't abandon the Old Ways. That won't stop us. We will cut a bloody hole into the Reach if it means our freedom," Kaie concluded.
The rebellious warriors bring into battle their own deadly hand-crafted arsenal to cut down all who oppose them:
Short Range: Forsworn Sword
Mid-Range: Forsworn Axe
Long Range: Forsworn Bow
Special Weapon: Destruction Magic
But how will the fearsome rebels stand against a new enemy equally determined to preserve the ways of their people?
The camera cuts to a blond-haired elven man with intricate vine-like tattoos on his face. He raises a longbow and draws the string back.
Up first to represent the Dalish Elf will be Fenarel.
A full-blooded Dalish hunter and warrior, Fenarel brings his knowledge of Dalish weapons and tactics to the battlefield.
"The Forsworn think brute force alone can bring them victory?" Fenarel scoffed, "The Dalish have the speed, the agility, and the intellect to outwit them any time."
The camera then pans to a blonde-haired elven woman who also has her face covered in intricate tattoos. She picks up a staff and looks down its length as she points at an unseen target.
Also on hand to represent the Dalish Elf will be Velanna.
A mage and former apprentice to a Dalish Keeper and Grey Warden, Velanna specializes in the magic utilized by her people.
"The Dalish are a proud race and just as deadly in warfare. We deal with beasts of the forests, darkspawn, human mobs, and Chantry Templars. The Forsworn will be just another minor nuisance," Velanna spoke.
The Dalish are nomadic elves who had their beginnings after their ancient civilization of Elvhenan fell to the Tevinter Imperium, resulting in them losing most of their language, history and lore as they found themselves enslaved. It was only when the Alamarri army rose up against Tevinter in 1020 T.E., that elven slaves led by Shartan rose up to help fight against their masters and the elves were given the Dales as a reward for their part in the war.
"We were given a barely populated tract of land and had to set off towards are new home in a perilous journey we called 'The Long Walk.' Yet it proved fruitful as the gods rewarded us as we reached what would become Halamshiral. Elves from all across Thedas joined us and we finally thought we would be able to carry out the task of restoring everything we had lost," Velanna spoke.
For three centuries, the elves lived in relative harmony and isolation, managing to avoid the humans and their hatred. The establishment of the Orlesian Empire and the Chantry of Andraste would bring them back into contact with outside forces, who sought ways to further subjugate them. The elves resisted fiercely and the Chantry called for a holy war that became known as the Exalted March of the Dales. While the elves fought valiantly and scored considerable victories, they would fall as Halamshiral was conquered. Those who survived were either forced to assimilate into Orlesian cities, or adopt a nomadic lifestyle so they could continue carrying on their worship and their dream of their own homeland. They became known as the 'Dalish.'
"There are plenty of us who refused to submit. Those who didn't walk a lonely path. We have endured for centuries because of our determination to see that our culture and our lore live on for future generations. We know what is at stake and that's why we are the deadliest," Fenarel concluded.
The nomadic elves keep their ancient ways alive thanks to a deadly arsenal that serves them well:
Short Range: Dar'Misaan Sword and Dar'Misu Dagger
Mid-Range: Dal'Thanaan Axe
Long Range: Dalish Longbow
Special Weapon: Dalish Magic
When both warriors needed to cut down their enemies up close, they relied upon trusted blades in battle.
For the Forsworn, they relied upon a barbed flesh ripper of their own design, the Forsworn Sword.
(A Forsworn ravager is shown slicing into a Markarth guard with the barbed sword, tearing a portion of his intestines out.)
Forsworn Sword
Length: 4 ft.
Weight: 3 lbs.
Material: Bone, leather, wood
"Damn, that looks nasty!" Eddie commented as he stared at the barbed sword held by Borkul.
"It looks primitive from a distance, but once you get up close to it..." Dr. Kaiser trailed off as he looked at the unusual hand-crafted blade, which had a sharp tip on its end and beneath that was lined with sharpened teeth and bound together with leather and reeds.
"Many have fallen by such a 'primitive' weapon," Borkul replied, "Test my patience and perhaps you shall do the same."
"Fortunately, we some stand-ins for you to test your sword out on, Borkul," Bradley stepped in and motioned towards two ballistic gel torsos, one of which was armored, "We have two Dalish charging after you and we want to see what kind of damage that sword can do to enemies who are both armored and without."
"Fine," Borkul grunted and took his position with his sword drawn.
"Alright Borkul, on 3...2...1, tear 'em up!"
"Forsworn forever!" Borkul roared as he launched himself at the unarmored target first, delivering a slash that tore into the target's stomach and pulling out a strand of entrails. He followed up with another strike that drove the blade's teeth into the target's collarbone and with a mighty tug, tore a deep rend into the target's flesh that sent a torrent of blood gushing out. He then finished off with another strike that cut deep into the target's throat and with another mighty tear, its head was separated from its shoulders.
Turning his attention to the armored target, the orc charged and swung his blade hard enough brake off a few scales of the armor before he had to swing again to finally gain some penetration, swinging away until he had a torrent of blood gushing out from underneath, albeit at the cost of a few of his blade's teeth being broken off. He punctuated his rampage with one final roar before stepping back and letting the doctor step in.
"My god, that entire time it was like watching a shark biting into someone with the way those barbs tore through this poor guy's flesh," Dr. Kaiser spoke as he examined the deep tears in the target's stomach and collarbone, "That sword's design just lets it tear into someone and adds all that extra trauma. You tore a guy's intestines out and ripped through all sorts of veins and muscle when you tore into his collarbone. Then of course, there's the icing on the cake," he said motioning to the target's severed head.
He then made his way over to assess the damage done to the armored target.
"You had an initial struggle with this guy's armor, but eventually you managed to saw your way through and cut through his collarbone and then, that's all she wrote," Dr. Kaiser concluded.
"Yes, but that weapon is very flimsy. I saw how several of your barbs broke off as you attacked your second target. Doesn't seem like it would be very reliable when you are up against a Dalish," Fenarel commented.
"To me, this looks like one of those weapons that is designed to keep cutting even as some of its barbs break off inside of its target," Bradley replied.
"Not only that, the broken off barbs would gradually work their way into the muscle and make the pain so unbearable you wouldn't be able to keep using that limb," Dr. Kaiser added.
"A Forsworn would never get that close to a skilled Dalish Warrior. We come some sturdier, more dependable weapons that would cut him down where he stood," Fenarel spoke up.
To answer the challenge, the Elf responds with a deadly blade combo, the Dar'Misaan Sword and the Dar'Misu Dagger.
(A Dalish Elf is shown dodging a sword swing from a Chantry Templar before cutting him down with a slice to the back of his legs from his sword before finishing him off by slicing his throat with the dagger.)
Dar'Misaan Sword
Length: 3 ft.
Weight: 3.5 lbs.
Material: Silverite
Dar'Misu Dagger
Length: 2 ft.
Weight: 2lbs.
Material: Silverite
Fenarel showed off both blades before swinging the Dar'Misaan and then stabbing with the Dar'Misu in a graceful display before taking the dagger and tossing it into a nearby wooden target.
"Lots of versatility we saw there, coupled with speed," Bradley commented.
"Exactly. These blades were designed to be quick and strong at the same time. The design allows for slashing power and the tips are pointed enough to allow for stabbing. They're lightweight and easy to use," the elven warrior replied.
"It's going to be the same test for you, Fenarel. We've got two attacking Forsworn, one of whom is bare and the other wearing the armor of the Forsworn. We want to see what both those blades can do," Bradley said motioning towards the gel targets.
"Very well," Fenarel said taking his position.
"Alright Fenarel, on 3...2...1, cut 'em down!"
Fenarel shot himself forth and drove his blade into the unarmored target's chest, his blade delivering a significant amount of penetration. He pulled the blade out and then drew back before delivering a slash that tore deep into the dummy's throat. He delivered another swing that took the dummy's head off before pulling out a dagger and chucking it into the face of the armored target.
He then turned his attention to the armored target and delivered a strike that tore into the armor's surface, yet didn't appear to penetrate. He tried again and managed to achieve some damage before he drew back and stabbed through the target's gut. He then drew another Dar'Misu and sliced the target's throat open to finish the test.
Dr. Kaiser made his way over to assess the damage, starting with the unarmored target.
"Your first strike was a picture perfect instant kill. You tore through this guy's lung, heart, and aorta all at once. Your second strike to the throat also would have been an instant kill, thus rendering your decapitative strike unnecessary, but still cool for brutality sake," the good doctor quipped as he made his way over to the armored target and removed the dagger.
"I believe this belongs to you, kind sir," he said handing the Dar'Misu back to Fenarel. "Your first strike from the dagger hit this guy just beneath his eye for an instant kill. You had a bit of struggle with the armor itself, yet you do manage to get through and sliced his stomach open for a mortal wound before you finally stabbed him in the gut for a quick bleed out. Your last strike sliced this man's throat open for another quick kill," Dr. Kaiser concluded.
"This is nothing to the Forsworn. We've fought enemies with similar weapons and they've still fallen before us," Kaie shrugged as Borkul nodded along.
Both weapons cut through their targets, but where do our panelists stand?
"While the Forsworn Sword looks absolutely wicked and will do a ton of damage if it hits, it does have its glaring downside with how brittle it is compared to the silverite of the Dalish blades, plus being the elf carries multiple at once. That being said, my edge goes to the Dalish and their sword and dagger combo," Bradley started.
"No doubt the Forsworn Sword can still be used even as some barbs break off, plus the added factor of the barbs being able to gradually work their way into an opponent's muscle and slowly weaken them, still the superior craftsmanship of the Dalish blade wins out in the end," Dr. Kaiser seconded.
"Plus the Dalish has two blades at once, meaning the user can attack and defend while their opponent is already somewhat on the back foot. Edge Dalish Elf," Eddie concluded.
In short range weapons, the Dalish Elf takes the edge with the Dar'Misaan Sword and Dar'Misu Dagger.
Coming up, two skull splitting battle axes are put to the test.
XXXXXX
The Forsworn and the Dalish Elf, two outsiders who seek to hold onto their ancient ways.
Both warriors also find themselves supremely confident in their own abilities.
"The Forsworn are nothing more than a bunch of savage brutes. They're no different from the darkspawn who have tried to destroy us before," Fenarel proclaimed.
"We've fought elves in the past. These Dalish can throw whatever hocus pocus at us they want, but it will be no different," Borkul growled.
When both warriors took the fight to mid-range, they relied upon fierce battle axes to cut their enemies down.
When they needed power, the Dalish turned to a massive murdering battle axe, the Dal'Thanaan Battle Axe.
(A Dalish Elf is shown bringing his Dal'Thanaan down onto the skull of a darkspawn ogre.)
Dal'Thanaan
Length: 4' 6"
Weight: 5 lbs.
Material: Wooden shaft, Silverite head
"This is the result of the finest Dalish craftsmanship," Fenarel said as he leaned on the axe's shaft, "These have been handed down throughout our clans for generations. We use these against larger or more armored enemies like great bears or the Templars."
"That definitely looks like it could cut through some serious heavy metal armor," Eddie commented.
"If for some reason it doesn't kill you, it would surely knock you on your ass," Bradley added, to which Fenarel smirked and the Forsworn experts just shook their heads.
"Well we're going to see what kind of damage that badass battle axe can do against an attacking Forsworn," Bradley said motioning towards a suspended pig carcass and a ballistic gel torso.
Fenarel nodded and stood ready with the battle axe in hand.
"Fenarel, are you ready?"
"Yes!" he called back.
"Then on 3...2...1, hack 'em up!"
Fenarel swung his axe into the pig carcass and cut it right in half. He then charged the gel target and lifted his axe overhead before bringing it down onto the target's collarbone, resulting in a deep tear that nearly went down to the target's abdominal area before he pulled out and swung horizontally into the torso's gut.
"Done!" the elven warrior called out.
Dr. Kaiser made his way over to inspect the trauma, starting with the pig.
"You split this guy in half in one swing. Normally you would only see something like this when someone is run over by a train," he said before inspecting the gel torso, "Your first strike alone shatters this guy's collarbone and the force and shape of the blade lets you cut significantly deep into this guy to where you are cutting down to the base of his lung for a quick kill. Your second strike wasn't necessary, but it would be a lot slower, more painful for him."
"Normally the Dalish go for speed, but we will mix it up if we have to every now and then," Fenarel commented.
"But then you step outside of your comfort zone and take away your own biggest advantage. Forsworn thrive on brute force. Once you step into our domain, you're finished," Kaie spoke.
"And we have just the weapon to cut you into pieces," Borkul growled.
To answer the Elf's challenge, the Forsworn swings back with a crude, but deadly war axe, the Forsworn Axe.
(A Forsworn brings his axe down to hack off the arm of a Nord soldier before swinging again to take his head off.)
Forsworn Axe
Length: 2.5 ft.
Weight: 2 lbs.
Material: Stone blade, wood and sinew shaft
"We don't have the best materials at our disposal, but we make use of what we have," Borkul said showing off his war axe to the panelists, "We mostly use stone blades, but sometimes we will find a Nord who 'donates' their skull."
"'Bout the only use they're good for," Kaie added.
"Our enemies think their steel and iron guarantees their victory, but in the end we still cut them down," Borkul concluded.
"It reminds me a lot of the Native American tomahawk, but it's much smaller than that Dal'Thanaan. Are you sure that's not going to be a hindrance for you in the end?" Eddie asked noting the size difference between both axes.
"You sure like to ask a lot of questions, softling," Borkul grunted, yet Bradley again stepped in to save his friend from being massacred.
"Please do continue," Bradley shouted.
"As I was saying, we would not be deterred. Even if our axe may not be as large, it is still faster and more maneuverable. Plus, a well-trained Forsworn can wield two axes at once," the orc said pulling out a second battle axe.
"It's going to be the same test for you, Borkul. We've got 2 attacking Dalish Elves here and we want to see how well your axe can hack them up," Bradley said motioning towards a new pig and gel target.
Borkul snorted and readied his battle axe.
"Borkul, are you ready?"
The orc roared back.
"Then on 3...2...1, butcher them!"
Borkul launched himself with a mighty roar and swung his axe into the pig's gut, tearing it open in a gory display. He then brought his axe down onto the pig's neck and managed to decapitate the target in one mighty swing. He then turned his sights over to the gel target and brought the blade down onto the dummy's collarbone and leaving a deep tear before he suddenly pulled out his second axe and brought it down onto the crown of the dummy's head, splitting it open in another gory mess.
"Fatality," Eddie commented.
Dr. Kaiser made his way over to examine the damage, again starting with the pig.
"Even though it took a greater effort on your part, it's still a testament to the lethal ingenuity of the Forsworn and their usage of what natural materials they have around them," he said before inspecting the deep tear, "You disemboweled this poor sap and then cut his head off in one mighty swing. Either blow is a kill," he said before moving over to the gel torso, "I'm surprised that you managed to actually go deeper with your swing compared to the Dalish's battle axe, despite them having a stronger material and a greater reach. You tore through until you split this guy's lung in half. Then you had your coup de grace with splitting his head open for another instant kill."
"It was nothing. Let the Dalish have their silverite. We can be just as lethal with what we have," Borkul grunted to Fenarel, who again shook his head.
Both war axes cut through their targets, but where do our panelists stand?
"While the Dal'Thanaan does have the superior material, the better reach, and has a two-sided head that can cause damage from either end, it involves the Dalish stepping outside of their comfort zone, forcing them to use brute force over the speed and accuracy they are known for. The Forsworn was in his element here, so edge Forsworn," Bradley started.
"This just goes to show that having the superior metals doesn't always decide the victor in the end. It's about the warrior behind the weapon. These kind of weapons are meant for brute force, something the Forsworn specialize in. Edge Forsworn," Dr. Kaiser seconded.
"I was surprised too at how much more damaging the Forsworn's axe proved to be over the Dal'Thanaan. I think it was more a case of a warrior being in their comfort zone versus someone who was only acting out of necessity. Edge Forsworn," Eddie concluded.
In mid-ranged weapons, the Forsworn takes the edge with the Forsworn Axe.
Coming up, two bows are put to the test and then later, both warriors unleash their magical attacks as the battle of supremacy takes on a whole new level.
XXXXXX
The Forsworn and the Dalish Elf, two fierce warriors who fight for survival in a world where they are persecuted by others.
How will both warriors fair as the battle goes to long range.
When the Forsworn needed to take down an enemy from afar, they relied upon their trusted bow to take a target down.
(A Forsworn is shown launching an arrow from his bow into the throat of an attacking Nord.)
Forsworn Bow
Length: 4 ft.
Weight: 2.5 lbs.
Material: Wood, bones, leather
"The Forsworn usual prefer close quarters combat, but when we needed to take an enemy down from afar, we relied upon this," Kaie said showing off the bow for the panelists, "We had plenty of materials at our disposal and could just as easily craft one of these bows when needed."
"It does look pretty dangerous for being hand-crafted from raw materials. We have the perfect test for that," Bradley said motioning towards the firing range behind him, "We have 6 targets here, 3 static and 3 moving. You have 10 arrows to prove your point, pun intended."
Kaie nodded and took her position on the firing line, nocking a fresh arrow and taking aim.
"On 3...2...1, open fire!"
Kaie launched her arrow into the side of a static target's throat, sending a torrent of stage blood gushing out and covering its left side. She then took aim and fired upon one of the moving targets, but her shot went wide and missed. With a grunt, she quickly drew another arrow from her quiver and that shot would also sail past a moving target and land in the ground behind them.
"She's going to waste all her shots on one target. Typical brute move," Velanna scoffed.
Kaie ignored the comment and fired another arrow that finally struck a moving target in its left side. She then launched another arrow into the shoulder of another moving target before following up with a launching an arrow into the center of a second static target's chest. Repeating the same motions, she fired another arrow that caught the third static target in its lower abdomen.
Refocusing on the moving targets, she fired another arrow that missed its mark before taking her time and firing another that struck the last untouched moving target in its left pectoral. Down to her final arrow, she took careful aim and sent it flying into the face of the moving target she had earlier struck in the shoulder.
"That's it!" Kaie called out.
"Out of 10 shots, you scored 7 hits," Bradley called back.
Dr. Kaiser made his way over to assess the damage done, staring with the static targets.
"Your first shot hit this guy picture perfect in his jugular. He is rapidly bleeding out with seconds. For your second guy, you got him dead center in the aorta and bottom of his heart, another quick kill. For your third guy though, it gets more interesting," he said removing the arrow and examining the hole, "For this guy, you are puncturing a curve in the upper intestine that is going to cause waste matter to spill into the interior of his abdomen, thus causing septic death. It would be a very slow, painful, and shitty way to go for the lack of a better term."
He then made his way over to examine the moving targets.
"With your first moving target, you are hitting him in the left side and went deep enough to collapse his lung. It's a mortal wound that could lead to a kill," he said before examining the others, "With your second guy you hit him twice. Your first strike would only succeed in crippling his arm, but it's the second shot to the face that will do the trick. For the last guy, you managed to strike him right in his thoracoacromial artery, for another quick bleed out. You are 6 for 6, with one delayed kill."
"Fenarel, your thoughts?" Bradley asked the elf.
"If you think this is going to intimidate me, you are sorely mistaken. The Dalish are master archers and we have a longbow that is more accurate and has enabled us to take down anything that threatens us, be it animal, darkspawn, or even human," Fenarel replied.
To counter the Forsworn's attack, the Dalish Elf counters with their signature weapon, the Dalish Longbow.
(A Dalish Elf is shown firing an arrow into the eye of a Chantry Templar's helm, dropping him dead.)
Dalish Longbow
Length: 4' 6"
Weight: 3.5 lbs.
Material: Ironbark
"This is our trademark," Fenarel said showing his longbow to the panelists, "This is why we are known throughout the land and why those who enter our forests must tread with extreme caution."
"It's the same test for you, Fenarel. You've got 6 targets and 10 arrows. Make them count," Bradley spoke.
Fenarel nodded and nocked an arrow.
"Alright Fenarel, on 3...2...1, open fire!"
Fenarel set his sights on one of the moving targets and the middle target square in the chest, but he barely registered as he was already taking aim with his second arrow and launching it into the neck of a second moving target.
"Wow, that was like lightning," Eddie commented.
Fenarel remained focused and fired an arrow into the last moving target's chest before shifting his sights to the static targets, firing an arrow into the face of the center target before nocking another arrow like clockwork and launching it into the heart of the second static target and following up on his third target with an arrow to its stomach before he went a little higher up with an arrow to its face.
"What's he doing now?" Bradley suddenly asked.
"You'll see," Velanna nodded.
With only 3 arrows left, Fenarel took them all out at once and loaded them, taking aim and firing them into the assembled targets, managing to strike two of them while his third arrow missed.
"That was incredible!" Eddie cried out in excitement.
"Some of the most impressive accuracy we have ever seen on here. Altogether, you had 9 out of 10 shots," Bradley added.
"And deadliest," Dr. Kaiser piped in, "All of these shots you've scored are instant kills."
Both bows have proven their deadly worth, but where do our panelists stand?
"For me, it's the Dalish Longbow across the board," Bradley started.
"Better accuracy and with a famed archer behind it, I'm with the Dalish all the way on this one," Eddie seconded.
"The Forsworn's arrows might hurt more, but in the end their arrow's head is only sacrificing accuracy in exchange for pain. The Dalish wouldn't make that mistake, edge Dalish," Dr. Kaiser concluded.
In long range weapons, the Dalish Elf takes the edge with the Dalish Longbow.
Coming up, both sides put their magical abilities to the test and then later, find out what happens as two fierce warriors fight to keep their ancient ways alive.
XXXXXX
The Forsworn and the Dalish Elf, two fierce warriors fighting to keep their ways alive.
When their weapons weren't enough, the gloves would come off and they would summon powerful magic to eliminate their foes.
The Dalish employed a style so feared it makes even the hardiest of Chantry soldiers tremble, Dalish Magic.
(A Dalish Keeper is shown conjuring a spell, which then causes a gigantic root to emerge from the earth and snare up an attacking Templar.)
Dalish Magic
Size: Variable
Weight: None
Substance: Magic/Mana
"Our magic uses the forest itself against our enemies and can also slowly drain our foes of their energy and life force," Velanna explained as she stood with a staff in hand.
"Very well then. We have set up four ballistic gel torsos for you to show off your magic on, one of which is outfitted with a vest rigged with specially triggered sensors to test the energy draining effects of your magic. You are free to move around as you please for this test," Bradley spoke.
"As you wish," Velanna said taking her position with her staff at the ready.
"Velanna, are you ready?"
"Yes," she called back.
"Take 'em down!"
Velanna summoned some massive roots from the earth, which wrapped the first torso up and she made a motion for them to continue closing in until she heard some bones cracking. For the second target, she summoned another gigantic root which shot out and impaled the second target through its chest. For the third target she did something different and instead summoned a large stone, which she then launched into the face of her target resulting in another crack.
She then shifted her attention to the final target and performed a spell which appeared to do nothing at first, until a large red rune was inscribed beneath it.
"All done," Velanna called out.
"That was definitely far out," Eddie commented.
Dr. Kaiser made his way over to assess the damage done to the targets.
"This first guy you just entrapped him in all these roots and you killed him in a very agonizing way where you just crushed his ribs until you were clamping down on his internal organs. Barbaric," he said before making his way over to the second target, having to look up at this one from below.
"For this guy it was instant lights out with a root that pierced his heart and exits out his back. I can see that even from down here," he commented before examining the third target, "This guy is done for thanks to a smashed skull and a face that is left barely held together on the outside."
He then made his way over to the final target and removed his vest, "With this guy, we are seeing no visible damage, yet the meters here indicate that his life force has been completely drained. Altogether, yo u are 4 for 4."
"Yet it appears that you need to have nature around in order for your magic to work. We don't need that with ours," Kaie spoke up.
When the Forsworn had nothing else at their disposal, they relied upon a magic which brought some of the deadliest elements to their disposal, Destruction Magic.
(A Forsworn Briarheart is shown using his magic to encase a Stormcloak in ice before using his other hand to shock him.)
Destruction Magic
Size: Variable
Weight: None
Substance: Magicka
"Destruction magic is designed for the sole purpose of battle and as its name implies, destruction," Kaie explained, "It involves harnessing the energies of fire, frost and shock."
"I can't wait to see this in action. It's going to be 4 targets for you also and freedom to move about as you please," Bradley spoke.
Kaie nodded and took her position 20 feet away from the targets.
"Alright Kaie, are you ready?"
"Yeah!" she roared back.
"Then take 'em down!"
Kaie moved closer to the first target and engulfed her first target in a stream of fire. For the second target she shot frost out of her hand, freezing it still. With her third target she fired a bolt of lightning that shocked the dummy violently. For her final target, she shot frost from her left hand and shocked it with her right.
Kaie simply whooped in victory.
"Even more far out," Bradley said to Eddie.
Dr. Kaiser went over to inspect the damage done, "You appeared to get closer than what Velanna had to with her magic, yet your impact was greater. You totally burned the first guy to a crisp. With your second target you froze him solid with no means to escape, a very slow and agonizing death as he succumbs to his rapid drop in body temperature. Your third guy was simply electrocuted to death and for your final target, you froze and shocked him at the same time. With how water conducts electricity, he might as well have been swimming. Altogether, you are 4 for 4."
Bradley then turned his attention to both Velanna and Kaie, "You both managed to eliminate all of your targets, but I must say that you both look pretty drained right now."
"It definitely will take some time to replenish my magicka following attacks like this, especially in such rapid succession," Kaie replied.
"I also feel drained, but all Keepers come with our staffs that enable us to continue with other attacks while replenishing our mana," Velanna spoke.
Both magical abilities showed what they could do, but where do our panelists stand?
"Dalish magic can be a versatile tool no doubt, but I'm going to go with the magic that can kill a hell of a lot easier and faster, Destruction Magic. Edge Forsworn," Bradley started.
"The Dalish seem to need nature around to carry out their magical attacks, whereas the Forsworn just need the right tome and they are ready to rock and roll. Edge Forsworn," Eddie seconded.
"More variety and with faster ways to kill, edge Forsworn," Dr. Kaiser concluded.
In special weapons, the Forsworn takes the edge with Destruction Magic.
As it is with all warriors, there is a critical X-factor that makes them who they are. For the Forsworn, it is their blessing from the Hagravens.
"The Hagravens and other spirits lend their support to the Forsworn cause thanks to the trinkets we leave for them at small altars along with soul gems. It is a part of our faith that has been considered old and heretical by Imperial and Nord standards, but it is what has kept us around for as long as we have, as long as they watch over us," Kaie explained.
For the Dalish Elf, they bring both a fighting style passed down throughout the generations and a lifetime of combat.
"From an early age, Dalish are learning to fight, hunt, and kill using the weapons and techniques of our ancestors. Our weapons and our magic require intelligence and versatility, whereas we see an enemy that relies soley upon brute force to win," Fenarel explained.
Coming up, two warriors clash to keep their ways alive on "Fictional Deadliest Warrior!"
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With our testing completed and our X-factors evaluated, we are now one step closer to determining who will be "The Fictional Deadliest Warrior."
Our teams tested 4 weapons used by the Forsworn: the Forsworn Sword, Forsworn Axe, Forsworn Bow, and Destruction Magic.
On the opposite side, 5 weapons used by the Dalish Elf were tested: the Dar'Misaan sword and Dar'Misu dagger combination, the Dal'Thanaan battle axe, Dalish Longbow, and Dalish Magic.
In short range weapons, the Dar'Misaan/Dar'Misu combo sliced through the Forsworn Sword.
EDGE: Dalish Elf
In mid-ranged weapons, the Forsworn Axe chopped down the Dal'Thanaan.
EDGE: Forsworn
In long range weapons, the Dalish's mastery of archery let them cut down all challengers with their Longbow.
EDGE: Dalish Elf
And in special weapons, the killing power of Destruction Magic destroyed the Dalish Magic.
EDGE: Forsworn
Our scientists and weapons experts are done with their testing. The results are in and the time has come to decide who will be the victor. The battle will be fought in a 5-on-5 squad battle between 4 Forsworn warriors being accompanied into battle by a Briarheart and 4 Dalish Elf warriors being accompanied by a Keeper. To ensure the battle won't be decided by a single, lucky blow, the battle will be simulated one thousand times in a duel to the death.
Who will win in a battle between two fierce warriors fighting to keep their ancient ways alive?
Brute Force
(A Forsworn is shown chopping down an Imperial soldier with a strike from his war axe.)
vs. Speed and Agility
(A Dalish Elf back flips to avoid a strike from a darkspawn before pulling his longbow out and firing an arrow into the monster's face, all before he knew what hit him.)
Strategy
(A Dalish Elf is shown lying in wait for an approaching Chantry Templar before firing an arrow into an opened portion of his helm and dropping him.)
vs. Determination
(A Forsworn dodges his way around a Nord's attacks before finding an opening and slicing into the man with his sword.)
"We've got everything lined up. Now, it's time for the battle!" Eddie said before starting the simulation.
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We are taken to the remnants of an ancient temple in the middle of a forest where a small group of Forsworn have congregated, 3 men and a woman. Seated before them on a worn throne is the corpse of a man in a fur helm with antlers attached. One of the warriors is holding a briar heart, which he then places in the dead man's chest and they carry out the briar heart ritual. Within seconds, the now Briarheart returns to life.
Forsworn: 5
Nearby, 5 Dalish elves are making their way through the forest on a mission to uncover any artifacts they believe could be related to their heritage. Among their numbers are three archers who are also carrying the Dar'Misaan sword and Dar'Misu dagger utilized by their warriors, in addition to an elf carrying the Dal'Thanaan battle axe and a dagger as a sidearm, and lastly a Keeper trained in their magical arts.
Dalish Elf: 5
The elves continue down the trail until they spot the temple ruins and are halted by the group's leader raising his hand. They all look on quietly for any signs of life before they notice five other people clad in animal furs emerging, including a gray-skinned man wearing a helm with antlers and his heart exposed.
The Forsworn stopped as they spotted the Dalish elves standing outside and readied their own weapons, two of the men drawing their swords, while third man and the woman drew their bows and the Briarheart's hands started glowing.
A tense stand off follows, but is broken when the woman archer takes aim and fires an arrow that catches an elf in his armored torso, knocking the wind out of him, but not killing him.
Acting on reflex, another elven archer fires an arrow that catches the woman in her throat.
Forsworn: 4 – Dalish Elf: 5
The Forsworn Briarheart launched a fiery blast from his hand that incinerated the elven archer, prompting the Dalish Keeper to summon her own magical abilities and launch a large rock at the gathered Forsworn before she and her colleagues were sent scrambling into the surrounding trees.
Forsworn: 4 – Dalish Elf: 4
The axe carrying elf ran further into the forest while being pursued by two of the Forsworn. Sensing the numbers were against him, he took cover behind a large rock with the Dal'Thanaan in hand and listened for any signs of movement. He peeked out to see one of the Forsworn warriors swinging his barbed sword around wildly for any signs his prey could be hiding in the bushes. He waited until the raider drew close before he hefted the heavy axe and took a swing.
Unfortunately for the elf, his struggle gave away his position and the rival fighter was able to leap backwards to avoid the swing before he charged with a swing of his sword. The elf brought his axe's shaft up to parry his enemy's blow before kicking him backwards and going for another swing, yet the Forsworn again dodged and went for another swing of his barbed sword that knocked the elf off balance.
The elf caught himself before he could go tumbling to the ground and tried leaping backwards to avoid another swing from the Forsworn's sword, managing to avoid the full brunt of the attack, yet grimacing in pain as three barbs were broken off, one in his exposed side.
The Forsworn warrior could tell he had drawn blood and attacked with a greater frenzy than before that left the Dalish elf barely able to avoid his following attacks. The pain grew as the broken off barb worked its way further into the elf's side and he could feel his grip loosening as he missed another swing with his cumbersome battle axe. It was with this miss he was left open for another slash that caught him in his thigh and left more barbs breaking off into his skin and working their way into the muscle beneath.
With his weapon damaged, the Forsworn tackled him to the ground and punched the elf hard in his face before wrapping his hands around his throat and trying to choke the life out of him.
Things were getting desperate, yet still the Dalish elf fought bravely as he shot his thumb up in an effort to gouge the Forsworn's eye out of its socket, yet even then his rival only tightened his grip. It was then he remembered his Dar'Misu and reached fo it, stabbing it into the man's side.
The Forsworn howled in pain and clutched at his side, enabling the elf to mount him and slash into his throat.
Forsworn: 3 – Dalish Elf: 4
The elf grunted in pain, but knew the fight couldn't be over with and after a great struggle, pulled himself back to his feet and hobbled over to reclaim his battle axe.
With every movement he made, the elf could feel the barbs working further into him and at this point the Dal'Thanaan was acting more as a crutch as he found a dirt trail and hobbled along until he was confronted by another of those strange warriors, who roared menacingly at him as he drew two of the Forsworn battle axes.
Even through all the pain, the elf tried to raise his battle axe and went for a swing, yet he collapsed to a knee and howled in pain before the Forsworn brought his axe down onto the elf's skull.
Forsworn: 3 – Dalish Elf: 3
The Forsworn grunted as he looked down to the blood and brain matter coating his axe's blade, finding himself slightly unsatisfied that it wasn't the kind of fearsome battle that would have made his kill all the more glorious.
Yet he would find himself distracted from his thoughts as he heard a loud crackling coming from nearby and turned to find the Dalish Keeper standing before him with her staff raised.
The Forsworn raised his dual axes ready for another fight, only to be halted by the tree root piercing his back from behind, punching through his spine and tearing his heart out with it.
Forsworn: 2 – Dalish Elf: 3
The other Forsworn archer isn't too far away and is searching for any signs of the other elves, looking high and low for his prey.
He moves into another thicket, unknowing of the elf lurking behind him. The elf takes aim with his longbow and purposely fires an arrow that whiffs the raider's long hair and embeds itself into the nearby tree. Startled, the Forsworn archer fires his bow wildly and his arrow harmlessly strikes another nearby tree. This gives the elf time to fire another arrow at the Forsworn's feet, causing him to drop his bow and with that, the elf leaped out with his blades drawn and managed to slash into the raider's side.
The Forsworn gasped in a mixture of surprise and pain as he caught himself and struggled to grab his barbed sword, yet the elf's speed caught him off guard and he felt backward. Out of desperation, he grabbed a handful of dirt and tossed it into his enemy's face, buying him enough time to finally draw his sword and go for a slash directed at the elf's throat.
The elf wasn't as blinded as his enemy thought he was and was able to barely sidestep the attempted strike before bringing both his blades up to catch his enemy's weapon in a follow up before using his force to drag him to the ground. Disarmed, the Forsworn went for his axe and went for an overhead swing, yet the elf ducked low and stabbed into his stomach before following up with a swing of his sword that slashed the Forsworn's throat open.
Forsworn: 1 – Dalish Elf: 3
Elsewhere another Dalish Elf searches frantically for his cohorts before the rustling of bushes catches his attention and he screeches to a halt with his longbow drawn. Much to his relief, it is only their Keeper. Together, they set off in search of any other surviving allies.
The reunited duo made their way down another dirt trail, running about until they spotted a pillar of smoke rising in the distance.
Less than a second later, the Dalish archer was collapsing to his knees with a four foot long shard of ice having been fired through his chest.
Forsworn: 1 – Dalish Elf: 2
The Dalish Keeper could only look on in horror as the archer looked towards her in silence, wide-mouthed horror before falling face first to the ground.
She then turned to face the culprit, who happened to be the Forsworn Briarheart, now in the process of channeling a shocking attack.
Summoning her Dalish magic, she launched a large rock at the Briarheart, who in turn shot a bolt of lightning that split the rock into a cluster of little pieces. The Briarheart isn't finished and conjures up a wall of flames, forcing the Keeper to summon a defensive shield to surround herself with as the flames close in.
At first it seemed like the two were evenly matched as the Keeper held her ground, yet the Briarheart wasn't giving up and it wasn't long before the Keeper had used up most of her mana and before long, her shield had faded and she was swallowed up by the flames.
From the distance, the remaining Dalish archer could hear the Keeper's screams and he saw the Briarheart was the cause. Raising his longbow, he fired an arrow that caught the half-dead warrior in his shoulder and halting his attack, but it was too late as the Keeper had succumbed to the Forsworn's flames.
Forsworn: 1 – Dalish Elf: 1
The Briarheart glared towards the elven archer and fired a bolt of lightning in his direction, but he had already sought cover and with the undead warrior now aware of him, he was forced to seek higher ground.
The archer ran until he found a tree with branches that looked stable enough to support his weight and he climbed up as a plan formulated in his mind while seeking a way to deal with another attacker that reminded him much of the darkspawn who had hunted his people.
Using his agility, the Dalish archer leaped among the branches he believed sturdy enough and searched for any signs he could of the Briarheart before the undead warrior walked into view and fired an icy blast that froze the branch beneath his feet, forcing him to jump again before he could be sucked up and he barely clung to another branch nearby. With his upper body strength, he was able to swing until he could safely land on a lower branch and when steadied, was able to draw his longbow and fire another arrow that caught the Briarheart in its stomach.
It would have been a debilitating wound for any other foe, yet the Briarheart kept on the attack and launched a fireball that ignited the tree the elf had been perched on.
The elf was eventually forced back to the ground and fired another arrow that caught the Briarheart in its left knee cap, yet the half-dead warrior continued after him. The archer had to think fast and it was then he recalled the briar heart implanted in the Forsworn warrior's chest.
Drawing an arrow from his quiver, the Dalish took aim just as the Briarheart's hands started glowing again and with careful precision, fired and sent the arrow flying into the exposed briar heart.
His plan worked as the Briarheart began thrashing violently before he collapsed to the ground and his defeated body regressed into a withered husk.
Shaken and exhausted, the Dalish elf raised his longbow into the air and cried out "For Arlathan!"
XXXXXX
Winner: Dalish Elf
Dalish Elf:
Dar'Misaan Sword and Dar'Misu Dagger: 173
Dal'Thanaan Axe: 98
Dalish Longbow: 230
Dalish Magic: 93
Total: 594
Forsworn:
Forsworn Sword: 73
Forsworn Axe: 129
Forsworn Bow: 104
Destruction Magic: 100
Total: 406
"It was a fierce battle, but in the end the Dalish Elf emerged victorious thanks in part to their superior marksmanship with their longbow, as well as having the superior materials for the vast majority of their weapons and also wearing the better body armor.
"The Forsworn didn't make the battle easy though as they had a more effective mid-ranged weapon and surprisingly better magic at their disposal, but while the Forsworn may have been bigger, stronger and more fearsome, the Dalish Elf was smarter, quicker and more effective at all ranges, whereas the Forsworn were in their comfort zone at close quarters combat. Once they were drawn further into the open, the Dalish were able to snipe them down thanks to their renowned marksmanship," Bradley concluded.
"I say we have a rematch, right here, right now, then maybe these elves will know what real danger is!" Borkul snarled.
"As I said before, brute force alone can only take you so far. The Dalish know how to think outside the box and would turn as many of those Forsworn they send our way into pin cushions," Fenarel remarked.
(The surviving Dalish elf returns to his camp to warn his fellow elves of the oncoming threat, carrying the Briarheart's helm as proof.)
XXXXXX
Next time on "Fictional Deadliest Warrior," two sneaky, agile warriors from very different backgrounds clash:
(A blond-haired man in a hooded robe stands with a cutlass in one hand and a flintlock pistol in the other.)
Edward Kenway: The pirate of the Caribbean turned Assassin who fought and plundered his way into legend...
vs.
(A silver-haired man in a dark ninja outfit with a matching mask covering the lower portion of his face and a distinctive scar over his right eye swings a ninjato at the screen.)
Rikimaru: The master ninja who embarked upon the most dangerous missions and rose to lead the Azuma Ninja Clan.
Who will be...THE FICTIONAL DEADLIEST WARRIOR?!
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Author's Note: Here's hoping you are all still among the living and that my American readers had yourselves a Happy 4th of July (or as I call it "Legally Blow Shit Up Day").
Also, here's wishing a belated Happy Canada Day to any Canadian readers I have on here!
This battle got a bit frustrating to write at times as I ended up making a few last minute changes, even when I had gotten to the point of working on the battle itself.
This was originally going to be a one-on-one battle, but then when I learned of the magic users being specialized classes (The Dalish Keeper and the Forsworn Briarheart respectively) for both sides, I instead opted to make it a squad battle. First it was going to be a 4-on-4 match up, but then when I realized I wouldn't get to be showing off as much of the Elf's blade combo in the actual battle, I opted to follow my usual safer 5-on-5 format.
I got the same vibe from the Forsworn Sword as I did with the Shark Tooth Club (Leiomano) used by the Maori Warrior on the show, that you could break off barbs and still keep fighting with it as you could with the shark teeth being broken off on a Leiomano, which I chose to incorporate into this battle as which I don't think would have been seen in the actual "Skyrim" game itself.
I also believed the Forsworn Axe would be much larger as there are never any specifics given on the length of said weapon and I was forced to improvise, until I saw in-game captures of it being used and it reminded me much of the Apache tomahawk with its length and that it could be dual used by the Briarhearts, thus warranting another last minute change.
Well I think that's all I have to say on that front.
The Forsworn and all Skyrim references are the property of Bethesda Softworks and the Dalish Elf and all Dragon Age references are the property of Electronic Arts.
With apologies to Elder Scrolls fans.
Until then, read and review and make sure to keep it FUCKING METAL!