The Baron spoke loudly, carrying his voice all over the assembled crowd all huddled together in one of the AGL Coliseums back offices.

To the Baron’s left stood Aearin. The broad man stood upright, outfitted in his normal, polished plate mail, scribed into it various holy symbols, he looks to Randorf, then down to the holy symbol clenched in his hand before he offers a nod and smile to those gathered.

To the Baron's right stood Mantaroth, the hulking form of the minotaur towering over the dwarf. The AGL World Championship belt glinted in the candlelight, strapped tightly around his waist. His arms were crossed and his face remained blank as the dwarf began to speak.

Waiting for the murmuring crowd to die down, Randorf thrust out his stubby hand so that the crowd could see a signed AGL contract.

"Tha rumors and reports are true. Ah hold here in ma hand the fight of the century, lads n lasses. Monday night, here in Althainia, ah will be hosting a world title championship match between two of the meanest, strongest, and crowd pleasin' gladiators the world as ever known. Aearin, a paladin of deep faith and even deeper arse kickin' ability has issued challenge upon the most winningest, undefeated champion in tha Leagues history, Mantaroth Malhavoc!"

Randorf waited for the whispers and comments to subside before continuing.

"Ah will also be holding ah Pit Dragon match and hopefully ah Blade Champion versus thae Crown Champion match. Now if the lot of ye have any questions, bea quick about it."

An elven reporter for the Daily Wood raised his hand first, anxiously waving it through the air.

"You wit tha pointy ears an buck teeth, ye got a question?"

The elf muttered indignantly before asking his question.

"Yes, as we all know, the minotaur has yet to be defeated. Most of his challengers end up dead or wishing they were. What makes Aearin any different and why should anyone pay to see just another slaughter."

Randorf grinned as Aearin stepped forward. "Good sir, whilst the minotaur is certainly of formidable strength, I think we can all agree there isn't much mental prowess between his oversized horns. In the face of unwavering faith and conviction, he will surely falter. As a chosen of Nadrik, I will humble this creature before the Lord and pray for his forgiveness. Make no mistake however, he will be made to pay for his transgressions."

Mantaroth remained silent, staring blankly into the crowd as if bored.

A short, green-skinned goblin in the crowd started laughing and pointing at Mantaroth.

"Har har har har! Humanz call cow dumb as rock! Har har har! Humanz goinz to milk himz!!"

A few of the people surrounding the goblin in the crowd took a few steps away from the creature, wincing as they glanced at Mantaroth’s reaction.

But to their surprise, he did nothing but stare straight ahead, ignoring the goblins comments.

A human in the back of the room shouted "Come on Mantaroth, don't take that! Say something!"

For a moment more he remained silent, but finally he focused his attention on the assembled group of people.

"There is no hope left for any of you, least of all the Paladin. A statement will be made on the eve of battle, such that has not been witnessed before. Come if you wish, stay in your home if you are wise. It matters little. But this paladin will be made an example, and his screams will be heard whether you are here or not."

The crowd stood with gaping mouths and turned quickly to Aearin. The paladin smiled slightly and hefted his crackling mace.

"It is perhaps my greatest disappointment when I come to find some are beyond saving. But I will take solace in the fact that when your body is consumed by the Holy Light, a great evil will finally be removed from this world. Do not weep at the pain, Minotaur, for it is only the demons leaving your soul. Though I fear you have many demons."

Mantaroth's hands began to crackle as small lightning bolts swirled angrily at his side.

Sensing the tension about to break, Randorf put up a hand and motioned quickly.

"This press conference is over. See you all on Monday! Bring your coins."