Battle for the Frozen Throne(s)

The Frozen Thrones have always been an enigma. What fascinating power lies in them, that makes their users go weak in the knees? Once someone has used them, he/she is changed forever, and will tell no one of the throne's powers. As such, many fear to even go near them, but there are always brave heroes and reckless fools who attempt to solve this mystery for themselves.

Unknown to ordinary citizens who go about their usual routine, the battles for the Frozen Thrones take place daily, almost at a continual basis. Humans, Orcs, Night Elves and even the Undead engage in deadly combat to reach the limited thrones. Although I have been privileged enough to witness previous battles, they have been rather tame affairs, each side holding back. Perhaps it was the Friday the 13th air that made today's battle total carnage and no holds barred action.

While ducking screaming arrows and wailing swords, I did manage to take in a few defining moments:

A peon who by some fluke that managed to seat himself onto the throne is instantly set upon by five other characters. He recognises the threat and tries to flee. But there is nowhere to run. The five others position themselves so as to be the first to reach the throne after he vacates it, leaving him no room to manouvere. Another reason why many shy away from this battle. For those who fail, their bodies are often never found.

A dazed Archmage who had lost his steed finds himself next to a throne. Leaning heavily on his staff, he cuts a sorry sight, and see a Dreadlord already on the throne. Already on the brink of death, he knows he cant win, but the DL cant harm him too, unless he leaves the throne. Using an unconventional tactic, the AM pleads with the DL, on the basis of his seniority and limited time left in this realm. The DL snorts, but soon is unable to take the incessant whining. Eventually, he casts a sleep spell on himself.

For those not in the know, the battle field lies in another dimension. Every few minutes, multiple portals open, allowing quitters to flee, and more importantly, new contenders to enter. Perhaps people become more reckless on this cursed day, there were more fighters than ever before.

Before long, those with leadership recognise the potential of forming teams, and alliances were formed, battle lines were drawn. To keep out more unwanted fighters, the weaker units sealed off the portal using their own bodies to form a meat shield, leaving the stronger heroes to battle in peace. Many couldnt get out. More couldnt get in. It was total chaos and mayhem, with much shouting and screaming and plenty of shoving.

I just love taking the train.