#Bellicon

[teamweddingphotoplanet]

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[fitness-trending-content]

Bollywood Dance Fitness Workout at Home | Latest Trending Songs 2023 | Fat Burning Cardio : Part 28 👨‍👩‍👧 🎶 https://newsinfitness.com/bollywood-dance-fitness-workout-at-home-latest-trending-songs-2023-fat-burning-cardio-part-28/

[safetyall]

BCAN 40/48" Foldable Mini Trampoline Max Load 330lbs/440lbs, Fitness Rebounder with Adjustable Foam Handle, Exercise Trampoline for Adults Indoor/Garden Workout.

[elevatefitness]

Mini Trampoline Workouts: Can Rebounding Outperform Treadmills for Weight Loss? (An Honest Review)

👉Upgrade Your Fitness Routine — Get Your Mini Trampoline Now!

Introduction: My Love-Hate Relationship with Fitness Gear

Let’s be real: I’ve spent years bouncing between treadmills, ellipticals, and yoga mats, searching for a workout that doesn’t feel like a chore. Then, during the pandemic, I bought a $90 mini trampoline (AKA rebounder) out of sheer boredom. Fast-forward to today — it’s the only fitness tool I’ve used daily for three years. But does rebounding actually work for weight loss, toning, and overall health? And how does it stack up against trusty treadmills? Let’s dive into the science, sweat, and occasional faceplants.

Is a Mini Trampoline Workout Effective for Weight Loss Compared to a Treadmill?

The Calorie Burn Showdown

A 2016 study in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that rebounding burns ~250–300 calories in 30 minutes for a 150-pound person — comparable to moderate treadmill jogging (5 mph). But here’s the kicker: trampolining engages more muscles (core, legs, arms) due to instability, boosting afterburn (EPOC) by up to 20%.

My Take: Treadmills win for sheer calorie torching at higher speeds, but rebounders are gentler on joints and sneakily effective.

Real-Life Results

Jen, 34 (Ohio): “I lost 15 lbs in 3 months rebounding daily. It’s way more fun than treadmill slogs.”

Mike, 45 (Texas): “My treadmill collects dust. Rebounding helped me shed belly fat without knee pain.”

How Many Calories Can You Burn in 30 Minutes on a Mini Trampoline?

Low intensity (bouncing gently): 120–150 calories

Moderate (jumping jacks, twists): 200–250 calories

High intensity (sprints, plyo jumps): 300–350 calories

Pro Tip: Add ankle weights or resistance bands to crank up the burn.

Does Rebounding Help Tighten Loose Skin After Weight Loss?

Rebounding’s “G-force” effect (acceleration/deceleration) stimulates collagen production and lymphatic flow, which may improve skin elasticity. While it’s no substitute for surgery, many users report firmer skin over time.

Testimonial: “After losing 50 lbs, my arms were saggy. Six months of rebounding + hydration made a visible difference.” — Linda, Florida

What’s the Average Cost of a High-Quality Rebounder in the U.S.?

Budget: 50–50–100 (e.g., Stamina 36-inch)

Mid-range: 100–100–200 (e.g., JumpSport 350)

Premium: 200–200–400 (e.g., Bellicon with silent bungees)

My Pick: The LeapFit Rebounder ($129) balances durability and affordability, with a weight limit of 300 lbs.

Can Daily Rebounding Reduce Belly Fat?

Yes — but with caveats. Rebounding engages the core 80% more than steady-state cardio (per a 2020 ACE Fitness study). Combine it with a calorie deficit, and you’ll see results.

My Routine: 10 minutes of “twist jumps” + 10 minutes of high knees = goodbye muffin top.

Sneakers vs. Barefoot: What’s Better on a Mini Trampoline?

Barefoot: Enhances balance and strengthens foot muscles. Ideal for low-impact moves.

Sneakers: Recommended for high-intensity jumps (extra ankle support).

Podiatrist Tip: If you have plantar fasciitis, wear minimalist shoes with arch support.

How Long Should You Rebound Daily for Lymphatic Drainage?

Just 10–15 minutes of gentle bouncing stimulates the lymphatic system, reducing bloating and boosting immunity. Think of it as a massage for your cells!

Does Rebounding Tone Thighs and Glutes?

Absolutely! Moves like squat jumps and pendulum kicks target:

Glutes: Activation similar to hip thrusts.

Inner/outer thighs: Lateral jumps work often-neglected muscles.

Before/After: “My ‘saddlebags’ vanished after 8 weeks of 20-minute sessions.” — Sarah, California

Rebounder vs. Regular Mini Trampoline: What’s the Difference?

Rebounders: Smaller (36–44 inches), sturdier springs/bungees, weight limits up to 400 lbs.

Cheap trampolines: Larger, wobbly, riskier for adults.

Rule of Thumb: If it’s labeled “for kids,” skip it.

Is Rebounding Safe for People with Knee Pain?

Yes! NASA research shows rebounding is 68% gentler on joints than treadmill running. Stick to low-impact bounces and avoid deep squats if you have arthritis.

Testimonial: “I have torn meniscus. Rebounding lets me exercise pain-free.” — Dave, Colorado

10 Minutes of Rebounding vs. Running: Which Wins?

Calories: 10 mins of vigorous rebounding ≈ 1 mile run (100–120 calories).

Joint Impact: Rebounding wins for low stress.

Mood Boost: Both release endorphins, but bouncing feels like recess!

Can Rebounding Strengthen Pelvic Floor Muscles?

Yes! The rhythmic bouncing improves pelvic floor engagement, making it ideal for postpartum recovery.

OB-GYN Insight: “Rebounding is safer than running for women with mild prolapse.” — Dr. Lisa Reynolds

Best Mini Trampoline Workouts for Seniors

1_ Seated Bounces: Boost circulation without standing.

2_ Heel Raises: Improve balance.

3_ Arm Swings: Enhance coordination.

Senior Testimonial: “At 70, I rebound daily. My grandkids call me ‘Trampoline Grandma’!” — Margaret, Arizona

Do You Need a Handlebar Attachment?

Beginners: Yes — it prevents falls during learning phases. Pros: Ditch it for better core engagement.

How Long to See Results from Rebounding?

Weight loss: 4–8 weeks (with diet changes).

Toning: 2–4 weeks (legs/glutes show fastest).

Energy/Mood: Immediate!

Is Rebounding Low-Impact Enough for Beginners?

100%! Even my 60-year-old neighbor started with 5-minute daily sessions.

Why Rebounding Causes Foot Pain (And How to Fix It)

Cause: Overuse, poor form, or cheap mats.

Fix: Stretch calves, wear supportive footwear, and upgrade to a cushioned rebounder like the LeapFit.

Does Rebounding Improve Heart Health?

A 2021 study in Frontiers in Physiology found 12 weeks of rebounding:

↓ Blood pressure

↑ VO2 max (cardio endurance)

↓ LDL cholesterol

How Many Minutes of Rebounding = 1 Mile Running?

~10–12 minutes of vigorous jumps ≈ 1 mile run (calorically).

Final Verdict: Should You Buy a Mini Trampoline?

If you want a fun, joint-friendly workout that melts fat, tones muscles, and boosts mood — yes. It’s not perfect (storage can be tricky), but it’s the only fitness gear I’ve stuck with long-term.

My #1 Pick: The LeapFit Rebounder offers premium bounce, a foldable design, and a 1-year warranty — all for under $130.

🔥 Special Offer! Get Yours Before the Price Goes Up!

[ronnansink-blog]

Fedor Emelianenko is no stranger to breaking new ground. The legendary Russian MMA icon—nicknamed “The Last Emperor”—built his reputation on relentless training camps and a highlight reel of devastating finishes. So, it should come as no surprise that when an innovative piece of workout equipment crossed his path, he was ready to put it through its paces.

During a high-profile press conference in Moscow, ahead of his clash with American heavyweight Jeff Monson, Emelianenko was presented with two bellicon mini trampolines courtesy of trainer Remy Draaijer. Though they may seem an unlikely addition to a fighter’s arsenal, the bellicon “Just Bounce” training regimen promises to bolster balance, coordination, and cardiovascular stamina—key components in any elite athlete’s toolkit.

These eye-catching trampolines weren’t just for show. Emelianenko took them back to his home training camp in Stary Oskol, the rough-and-tumble Russian town that forged his fearsome style. There, the multiple-time MMA champion would weave bouncing drills into his usual gauntlet of wrestling, striking, and conditioning workouts. The idea? To add an extra layer of explosiveness and agility—two factors that define a cage warrior at the highest level.

From the outside looking in, trampoline work might seem like child’s play. But beneath the surface, the bellicon’s low-impact rebound platform challenges stability while building muscle endurance. Under Draaijer’s watchful eye, Emelianenko could carve out a new dimension in his game—sharpening his reflexes as he transitions from bouncing drills to takedowns, ground-and-pound, and those trademark stand-up battles.

Will the bellicon trampolines tip the scales in Emelianenko’s favor? As any veteran fight fan knows, the world’s best never shy away from experimentation. For “The Last Emperor,” the road to triumph always involves pushing boundaries. If these mini trampolines can help him bounce higher—both literally and figuratively—don’t bet against him using them to once again prove he’s still among the best in the business. https://youtu.be/yyTr8bmk-8I

[jay2k-writing-stuff]

Warning Labels

Roughly every 100 years a necromancer tries to raise a berserker from the dead, and for the next 99 years every tome is updated to warn against this. But as the knowledge gets lost another necromancer tries yet again.

Here lay the sundered remains of the Bedamned Champion of Oletheron, Who-Revels-In-Blood, who struck down the Towers of the Faithful, slaughtered the Exalted Builders of Oikodion, and razed the lands to the horizon.

May it molder and wither in death. Incapable of peace, let it rest in silence and separation until all memory of it fades into eternity.

--from ancient runic carvings in the First Tomb of Ruin, believed to have been left by Episone, the last survivor of the fall of Prodomine

~*~*~*~

To: His Imperial Majesty, Keizen, Sovereign of the Regal House of D'Entaelin, King of Galathin, Protector of the Mid Reaches, Defender of the Faiths, Shield of the Arcanic Colleges, et al

Sire--

The job is done. The Bedamned Champion lies dead once more, at great cost, numerated below.

3 complete Imperial Legions, the 3rd, 7th, & 8th. (Their standards are in my keeping and will return to Galath with me.)

~80% of Logistica for the above. The Reveler did not discriminate in its victims.

A cohort of Bellicon League warriors. (The lone survivor, Tiran Soldat, returning with this missive.)

9 Archmagi of the Conclavum Arcanum.

A full accounting will follow of who and what was lost. The names of the Legion Commanders, Bellicon League warriors, and Archmagi are appended to this missive.

Diviner Teicari tells me that The-Reveler-In-Blood was raised from its eternal rest at the behest of Beryl-Eye. The only saving grace is that B-E was the Reveler's first victim after he raised it. Apparently this only required returning its head to its body, whereupon some devil-born magic began the restoration of the Reveler's body to life.

The head is inside the locked adamantine box, impaled on an orichalcum spike. Tei tells me this will inhibit whatever magic animated it, but as destroying its skeleton has proven impossible, the best choice for preventing the Reveler's resurrection is keeping its remains separate. Court Archmage Abedin should know what to do with the head.

It will be some weeks here putting out the fires, literal and figurative, before I can return to Galath. Honor demands I at least begin the restoration work here in Elandor.

Lastly, if I may, Your Majesty-- forgive my frank words, but I WARNED YOU. Beryl-Eye was too dangerous to be left alive, no matter if Abedin and the Conclavum had stripped him of all of his magical power. Tei believes that B-E forged a pact with some profane patron to regain some measure of power. Exactly which entity he contracted, Tei isn't sure yet but suspects it may have been Oletheron. This all could have been avoided if you'd had him executed to start with.

Your faithful servant I remain,

--Andro Victor Bravis, Lord General of All Imperial Legions, Militus Primaris

~*~*~*~

"Sorry, your study concerns what, again? 'The Ruiner?'"

"That's right. Or it might be under 'the Leveler?'"

"Follow me, I'll take you to the books we have about the subject."

"Oh, there's multiple works? That should help--"

(chuckles) "Something like that. Tell me about what you know about the Ruiner?"

"A demon, or as close as you can get to one without actually being from the Abyss. Some kind of beast sent by an Abyssal god or something like that. All the stories I've heard say that it's been the monster used by every necromancer that's gotten it in their head to try to conquer the continent."

"Yes, nearly right. The Ruiner, Who-Revels-in-Blood, was one of the worst, most vicious warriors the world has ever seen. Even before they were named Champion by the war-god Oletheron, the Ruiner was unbeaten on the field of battle. And then the Ruiner was made virtually unkillable through the god's blessing."

"And the other gods weren't able to provide a counter to such a blessing?"

"No other god could empower one of Their chosen to the same degree. And Oletheron couldn't undo His blessing without reducing His own power. Look, it's a thorny issue, even the priests won't push the issue when beseeching for answers. Anyway, here we are."

"...That's a big bookcase. Er, which one should I start wi--"

"That one. Top shelf all the way on the left. Read through it, then go through the next, and keep going like that until you get to that one, bottom shelf all the way on the right."

"And this will tell me everything you have on the Ruiner?"

"This will tell you everything about why you don't resurrect it! You read through the entire bookcase, you come back to me. There will be a quiz about this, by the way."

"I'm just doing resear--"

"Research. Yes, you said. That's always how it starts. You're not the first Conclave mage to come just looking to 'do research' about one of the worst continual calamities the world's ever seen. As you can see, we've had to take great pains to impress on you lot why the Ruiner needs to just stay dead."

"Isn't that overkill?"

"Once you finish reading through those tomes, you'll understand a little better. Best get started, boy."

--from an exchange in the Prime Library of the Conclave Arcanum, between Keeper Belibol and an arcanist

[bestreboundertrampoline]

👉 fit bounce pro vs bellicon: User Feedback

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[firoz857]

Escape the 9-5 Grind: How to Make Money From Home

Hi! I’m Jennie! Welcome to my channel. I’m here to help you make money from home. In this video, we're going to teach you how to make money from home. We'll show you the secrets to unlocking the secrets to making money from home. Whether you're looking for ways to make extra money or you just want to get out of the house, this video is for you! We'll show you how to make money from home the right way! If you're ready to start making money from home, then this is the video for you. Watch More of My Videos And Don't forget to "Like & Subscribe" & Also please click on the 🔔 BellIcon, so you never miss any updates! 💟 ⬇️ 🔹🔹🔹Please Subscribe to My Channel: ✅ https://www.youtube.com/@Heshtheaffiliate Watch My popular Videos : How To Make Money From Home | Unlock the secrets to making money from home 👉 https://youtube.com/shorts/GxZxVeZFSQw - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - #To learn more about me, check out my Profile & CONNECT WITH ME 💟 ⬇️ #💠 Instagram : 👉 https://www.instagram.com/financiallyfreewithjennie/ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Hashtag: #HowToMakeMoneyFromHome #UnlockthesecretstomakingmoneyfromhomeHi! I’m Jennie! Welcome to my channel. I’m here to help you make money from home. In this video, we're going to teach you how to make money from home. We'll show you the secrets to unlocking the secrets to making money from home. Whether you're looking for ways to make extra money or you just want to get out of the house, this video is for you! We'll show you how to make money from home the right way! If you're ready to start making money from home, then this is the video for you. Watch More of My Videos And Don't forget to "Like & Subscribe" & Also please click on the 🔔 BellIcon, so you never miss any updates! 💟 ⬇️ 🔹🔹🔹Please Subscribe to My Channel: ✅ https://www.youtube.com/@Heshtheaffiliate Watch My popular Videos : How To Make Money From Home | Unlock the secrets to making money from home 👉 https://youtube.com/shorts/GxZxVeZFSQw - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - #To learn more about me, check out my Profile & CONNECT WITH ME 💟 ⬇️ #💠 Instagram : 👉 https://www.instagram.com/financiallyfreewithjennie/ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

[zfitwellness]

Bellicon Training Academy California

Bellicon Training Academy in California is a premier institution that offers high-quality training in the art of rebounding. With expert instructors and state-of-the-art equipment, students can learn the principles and techniques of rebounding in a safe and effective manner. Whether you are a fitness enthusiast or a professional trainer, bellicon Training Academy has something to offer for everyone.

[musicwitharijit]

A glimpse from Yesternights YouTube live ... 1st time live, took a couple of minutes to figure out some things but after that things went pretty well ... had a great conversation with the audience and some QnA session as well and we ended making something like this... Join me on the channel and hit the #bellicon , #subscribe ... and be a part of next session to get your #musicmaking answers . . . #music #musicproductionlife #musicproducer #musicproduction #musicians #musiclover #logicprox #studiolife #studiohacks #freebeats #beatmakers #learnmusicproduction #youtube #youtubemusic #youtubelive #livestream #qna #askmeanything #askquestions #answers #livesession #studiolive (at Dehradun, Uttrakhand) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bvy3fnngPvk/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=dxqu7nw9z6t3

[teamweddingphotoplanet]

Hey there! Ready to dive into an incredible journey? Click on the link below to experience the full video and join our vibrant community. Please hit the subscribe and press the bellIcon and like this video. Your support means the world to us, so give that like button some love and let's embark on this adventure together!

[heathandfitnesssolve]

BCAN 40/48" Foldable Mini Trampoline, Fitness Rebounder with Adjustable Foam Handle.

Color 40-Black Brand BCAN Material Steel Shape Round Frame Material Alloy Steel Maximum Weight Recommendation 150 Kilograms

About this item:

【2021 Material Upgraded】The second-generation upgraded version, thickened steel 3 mm, high-strength stainless steel preservative spring. 3000 continuous jump experiments. Make sure you can jump with confidence! 【Safe Adjustable Bar】Heavy-duty handle bar provides FOUR levels adjustable ranged from 2'6" to 3'5" (on the mat) designed for kids & adults. ​Just jump! 【Portable Trampoline】With unique frame construct, folded size less to 1/4! Easy to storage your trampoline anywhere, bed, sofa, car trunk, closet, etc.

【Jumping System】The unique 32 CLOSED SPRINGS connect easy-to-clean waterproof pp mat provides a powerful elastic recovery system to make suitable for over 6-year-old jumping efficient and safe . 【Folding Oxford Pad】Four holes construct allows you to fold trampoline without taking off the pad. Waterproof, Anti-scratch, Easy-to-clean.

【Magic Indoor Exercise】10 Minutes bounce exercise equals 1-hour jogging, 30 minutes cycling or 20 minutes swimming. Let trampoline become a habit, as a part of your life.

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[lipedemadiary]

El día 25 publiqué en mi blog un artículo sobre la @bellicon_de donde os cuento un poco más sobre ella, ya que muchas os habéis interesado! Los de #mybellicon me han dado de nuevo un descuento del 10% por si le habíais echado el ojo echado a alguna 🤗 estará disponible hasta este domingo! Tenéis más info en: 🔗 https://lipedemadiary.com/2021/bellicon/ Espero que os resulte útil y/o curioso! 🥰 #bellicon #bellicontraining #bellicondiscount #belliconjumping #belliconhome #camaelastica #trampoling #jumping #trampoline https://www.instagram.com/p/CTEnz04jhNp/?utm_medium=tumblr

[lipoedemmode]

Fazit nach 5 Jahren: Hat sich die Anschaffung vom bellicon gelohnt?

Fazit nach 5 Jahren: Hat sich die Anschaffung vom bellicon gelohnt?

– Werbung – Heute fühle ich mich ein wenig wie ein Dinosaurier, der von Früher erzählt. Wenn ich daraus einen Trampolin-Dino, … einen Trampo-Dino, mache, ist es doch gleich wieder irgendwie knuffig. Na toll, das nächste Mal, wenn ich auf das Spanntuch steige, werde ich wahrscheinlich bei der Vorstellung leise vor mich hin Kichern. Gibt schlimmeres. Ach komm, es gibt wirklich eine Zeichnung…

[jay2k-writing-stuff]

Crowned by War II

"Come then, boy, and test your mettle against the Lord of Battles, and see if you can take my crown from me! You face the King of War, and you had best not disappoint!"

We stood in the sand-covered floor of the arena, the stands around us empty and barren. Above and across from me stood the Shrine of the War Crown, hanging with the banners accumulated over the ages by the one who wore it. It had showed the long-practiced care and maintenance, its earthen tones re-painted when needed, the scarlet adornments and accents also, the gold and silver and platinum filigree here and there polished. Only the Sign of War itself above the shrine needed nothing, a divine blessing keeping it cleaned and gleaming.

The sands in the arena had been smoothed and swept, raked into a mandala pattern with the same long care. Apart from around the pair of us. I was simply armored, light mail and plate with the sphinx-sigil and colors of the Bellicon League, a vambrace and gauntlet on my left arm, a bracer on the right, greaves and sabatons. I held my gladius at one side as I faced down my opponent.

Bellerex, by contrast, wore no armor whatsoever. He was bare to the waist, his body hale and well-built despite his age, and showed the multitudes of scars that he'd taken over the millennia of his existence. Tattoos banded his arms and his neck, though the ones on his forearms were hidden by the leather wraps he'd tied around them. He wore loose, pristine white trousers, with black footwraps and legwraps below the knee. His clean white teeth showing in the midst of his short-cropped gray beard beneath a shaved bald head. He bore a blade in each hand, a falchion on the right, and a short xiphos on the left, both held in an almost lazy, loose grip. Around his brow sat his crown, an iron circle wrought to resemble interlocked blades, woven with chain-like designs.

The echoes of his last boast faded in the grounds of the shrine, and I set my jaw. "Have at you!" I declared, and then I moved.

Only one such as he could have seen me move. I felt the parry of my slash, my vambrace already up to intercept the retaliatory swing of the falchion. Bellerex smiled as he regarded me, the xiphos locked with my gladius. "Oho! Such speed! But I could hardly expect otherwise of any challenger for my crown."

Sand fountained upward from the tamp of my foot, breaking the blade-lock. My armored arm knocked his falchion away before I lunged inward to slam into his broad chest. It was like striking a wall, but there was a micron of a step backward as he strengthened his stance. His arms scissored inward, to aim for a grapple or grip, but caught only air. He turned his head to look up, watching as I somersaulted over him, but then was already moving out of the way as, mid-turn, I suddenly catapulted back down, the slash parting the air with a sound like tearing silk.

"Ah-h-h," his satisfied sigh reached me as the sand fell back to the floor, xiphos held reversed as he scratched at his beard. The old man chuckled. "That lunging strike actually made me give ground, however small. And the air-step as well! Such techniques I've not seen in so long--"

He had to interrupt himself to sidestep my next attack, but his reverse-swing of the xiphos-- intended to strike my head from my shoulders-- went over me as I instead spun low, my legs scything at his. His stance was too strong to topple him, but I had not expected it to. I used that iron strength in his thigh to step up his flank, rising up at head height. I could see the delighted surprise in his expression as my other foot came around and cracked off the side of his skull.

The blow did knock him off balance, but he was still upright as I landed and moved in. The flat of my sword caught his wrist, knocking the xiphos to the sands, before the vambrace caught him in the jaw, I flipped the gladius around and caught him in the temple with the knot. He staggered again, still off balance, before grunting as I brought the gladius across his collarbone and upper chest. I felt the edge bite at his flesh and smelt the spill of fresh blood before I leapt away again, re-adjusting my grip as I watched him.

Bellerex had regained his footing, and was looking at the blood trickling down from the injury. He touched it and licked it off his thumb. "The fabled technique of the Bellocin masters. The strength of the ox, ferocity of the lion, the speed of the hawk," he recited the tenets of the league's style. "Of course, boy, you know this as well--"

I turned, parrying his own blinding speed, bending backward to avoid the cross-swing that came in response to the parry, and was already blocking the knee that came up with my greave. He was laughing as I used his raised leg for my own to step off of, thrusting myself backward, handspringing to come upright, then air-stepping upward to avoid the fresh blitz rush.

But then he leapt after me, air-stepping himself to match me. "--I was the one who taught the technique to the League to begin with!" He air-stepped again to lunge for me, only to get knocked back to the arena floor with my left hook. He landed nimbly, rotating his arm as he watched my own descent. "Hell of a punch, boy."

I nodded at the compliment. "I am not hailed as Marshal Strongarm without reason."

The old man chuckled. "I would be a fool to assume you didn't have other tricks up your sleeve, then. Not merely mastery of the Bellocin technique." This time his parry was faster, and so was his retaliation, leaving a scratch across my plate before I leapt clear of his immediate reach. He was already upon me less than a blink later, and I trapping his punching arm underneath mine. "Aha, you think at this close range I can't use the falchion effectively and can use your free hand for a solid punch or two before I'll get free--"

He had been expecting me to go for the face and head, perhaps under the impression that I could silence his declamations. And it was true that I value less verbal sparring in a melee, but instead of going for his face, I got one punch in on his liver before he tucked his right arm in and trapped my armored fist. He did not crow about the trap, merely grinned again, before his head snapped forward. I'm no stranger to the Weagian Kiss, I've utilized it myself, and endured them more sturdily than others.

Others weren't wearing an iron crown when they did it, though.

My vision went blurry as I staggered back from the clutch, feeling my skin split and bleed where the crown had struck. As fast I could be to recover from such a blow and get my vision back, I knew I didn't have that kind of time. I shut my eyes and let other senses prevail, managing to block the falchion again with my armored arm on an instinctive reaction. I heard the movement of air and turned, barely parrying a swing, then grunting as his fist caught me in the jaw. I managed to turn with the blow to avoid getting it dislocated, and kept turning as I dropped, again sweeping low with my foot.

Once more, his stance was too sturdy to be felled by the kick, so I tried the step-climb off his knee again. This time he was turning in response to it and his fist once more got me, striking me in the chest and sending me flying backward. I only just managed to turn and use the air-step to slow my momentum before landing in an awkward stumble. My vision was clear enough to see him already closing again.

Another tamp of my foot sent a fountain of sand up, obscuring my presence long enough to get out of the line of his charge, but I heard him laughing again as I blinked my eyes to finish clearing my vision. The lingering ache throbbed in my head from the headbutt, I could feel the blood trickling down my face, and managed to see him slowly advancing. "You've been the best fight I've had in at least five centuries, Marten!" he declared. "Not many people can remain standing after taking two of my blows!"

"I wouldn't expect so," I admitted. "Not many could even stand a chance against you."

The old man tilted his head. "I've proven I can keep up with and counter your Bellocin techniques. You've felt my physical might. And still there's no fear in you."

I scoffed. "To live without fear is to be a fool. Accepting one's fear and mastering it is key to reaching your best self."

Bellerex chuckled, but shook his head. "No, even the best of challengers that have faced me have had fear inside them. These were men and women I know had mastered their fears--"

"--and you beat them all because in spite of that, they still had fear of you," I wiped blood from my face with a cloth. "If not when they stepped onto the sands with you, then certainly not long after, when they realized exactly what they were facing."

"And you aren't afraid of me, boy?"

He was upon me again, hoping to instill that missing fear into me with another blitz rush. But his step faltered when I threw bloody cloth in his face, once more somersaulting over him with a slash of my own, then air-stepping back out of his furious whirling swing's range. More blood splattered onto the sands from the fresh wound across his shoulder blades, but he laughed again as he popped his neck.

I faced him. "I knew what I was walking into. I knew who I was facing. Amras the Last."

His smile at last faded. I nodded. "That was your name, long ago, before you came out of the Far Reaches, wasn't it? With your company of heroes? Sezuai, Rhaene, Nehtana--"

"Do not speak their names!" His voice roared now as he came for me again, with speed that eclipsed the blitz rushes earlier. I had already moved to avoid his furious pursuit, once again tamping down my foot to send a fountain of sand in front of me to obscure my escape. When he turned again to find me, he had to jerk his head out of the way of the xiphos, which I had scooped up and thrown at him. As it was, it tore his cheek open.

"You miss them, don't you?" I asked him, as he felt the fresh well of blood on his face. "You've wanted a worthy challenger not so much for the fight, but because you want someone who can beat you, so you can move on to wherever they're waiting for you."

My escaping dodge wasn't fast enough either, as it caught my arm. If it hadn't been my armored one, I would have lost the limb. I could feel blood slicking the interior of the vambrace and gauntlet as I air-stepped away once more, but he was doing the same in the chase. Once again, I tamped my foot, but he was too close this time and the falchion slashed through it. I leant back from it, grunting as it caught the bridge of my nose and edge of my cheekbone.

"I won't keep falling for the same tricks!" Bellerex snarled as I parried his next swing, ducking close and bulling into him with the blood-soaked vambrace. "Did you want another butt in the head, boy-- yeeaarrrgh!!"

The scream came as I sank my teeth into his gashed cheek and tore a strip from his face. I spat his flesh into the sands and then blood into his eyes before reversing my gladius and bashing the knot into the wound. He stumbled back with a wild swing of his falchion, but I had already ducked and air-stepped backward.

"You want to die!" I shouted at him. "But your pride won't let you lay down and accept defeat!"

His eyes were blazing as he looked up at me. His smile was more fierce, with less delight in it now. "Oh-h-h, I'll make sure your armor has pride of place in the trophy case, Marten of the Bellicon League--"

He stopped to catch my flying knee in his free hand. I was able to see the astonishment at how fast the attack had come before the other came up and into his chin. He staggered back, tanking the downward hammer-fist of my gauntlet across the back of his neck. He still managed to step back and avoid most of the upward reverse-slash of my gladius, leaving another bloody carve in his chest. He blocked the follow-up slash, then grunted as my armored hand slammed into his liver again.

I jumped back as he aimed another punch, then watched as he felt the fresh slash on his chest, the bloody mess of his cheek. "You've been holding back?" His voice was bewildered.

I said nothing, knowing that he would work it out quickly enough. I was proven right when he chuckled again, nodding. "Of course. I wanted a worthy challenge," he spoke out the thought process. "If you'd come out with everything from the start, and it failed at the outset, you'd feel the fear you won't let yourself have. Because if I went down from your best shot, you had nothing left to fall back on, and-- you knew I would be disappointed in that." He looked up at me with a new respect in his eyes.

I nodded. "Ramp up my techniques as you adapt. So in the end, I know I've either died giving you a worthy challenge, or I have elevated myself to the point that I can surpass you."

He gave another, somewhat rueful, smile and chuckle, before his lip curled, distorting the ruined side of his face. "And invoking their names?"

I shrugged. "Bringing up your former comrades let me know that my theory was right. Your pride won't let you go without falling to a worthy foe. I suspected when I studied the teachings of my antecedent, Tiran Soldat."

"Ah, word of his prowess reached me, of course," the old man admitted. "I regret that he never sought me out."

"By the time he learned of your shrine, he was unable to make the journey." I shrugged again. "Lungrot had taken root by then. He could never have allowed himself to face you at anything less than his best."

The old man laughed, sadly this time. "Perhaps I shall meet him, whenever I move on to what comes next." He gripped his falchion sturdily. "Our next exchange is going to be our last, you know this, yes?"

I nodded, squeezing the grip of my gladius tightly. "I won't hold back this time, and I know you'll be coming at me with everything. Perhaps I'll fail to stop the wars eternal, but it won't be because of weakness."

He nodded again, and there was a silence that fell as we each took the moment to center ourselves. I saw the instant before he was going to move, and I once more tamped down my foot. But this time, every bit of sand in the arena leapt into the air, obscuring everything, and causing his blitz rush-- faster than the fastest blink-- to falter as he lost sight of me.

I had already moved aside from the path of his rush, then air-stepped back in behind him, my sword cutting across the backs of his legs. I heard the stumble, then the crash as he went tumbling to the arena floor as the sand fell back down around us. As I slid to a halt, I could feel my muscles screaming at me; forcing myself past my usual limits with the speed of my technique was not without consequence.

So I was limping with stiff, sore legs as I approached the old man, who had turned onto his back, blood pooling around his maimed legs. He propped himself up onto his elbows, falchion having fallen and spun away in his collapse. He had a smile on his face as I shambled up to him. "Ah-h-h," he sighed. "You didn't hold back. Thank you."

He regarded me from where he lay. "You know what awaits now, yes?" He reached up and took the crown from his brow, holding it up toward me.

I stood back from it. "I do not want your crown--"

"Want has nothing to do with it, boy," he snapped. "I was not the first to bear it. Nor will you be the last. But the crown will always be borne by the one who bested their predecessor. Take it."

His tone brooked no argument. I grasped it, and he pointed a finger in command. Reluctantly, I planted the gladius in the sands as I took it with both hands, settling it on my brow. There was a Power in it, one which was waiting for me to complete one final task, before it would reveal itself to me. I looked back at the old man.

"Peace, the world will get for a while," he said, as he lay back. "It won't last. It never will. But for a while, the wars eternal will stop." He settled himself. "But now... the time has come for me to move along to what comes next." A sigh. "Finally."

I took up my sword and held it ready. He watched it rise, and nodded. I plunged it down into his heart, and he let his eyes close with a content smile at last. So passed the One Born of the Far Reaches, the Eternal Champion, Lord of Battles, King of War. Called Karlvon, Yudaragi, Vasto Polmarc, Bellerex, Amras.

The Crown's Power whispered, but I let it know that I did not wish to know its secrets yet. I needed rest, myself, and then to see that the old man received a proper send-off.

In time, others would come to the shrine. Others would add their armors and weapons to the trophies. More banners would line the path through the valley.

They would come to face the Last of the Bellicon League, Scion of Tiran Soldat, Marshal Strongarm...

Marten, Crowned by War.