Realistic or Modern New Oasis: Academy

[Anaee]

Lucia Belle Castillo

CS Link

SCENE:

Welcome to Rosengarten Conservatory

LOCATION:

The Docks -> Entrance Hall

PARTICIPANTS:

Kina azenva & Anyone else around

Welcome Home

Before Lucia could continue the conversation with the girl that approached her, the boat began to sway and coast towards the docks of what appeared to be the academy. It was a sight to see. Lucia could hardly hide her bewildered expression.

She hadn't known much about the school when she agreed to attend, however, it is more than what she expected or could imagine, just getting to glance around at the area in front of her was still a beautiful sight to allow your eyes to hold onto and take a mental picture.

She should come out and explore the area more... maybe even sketch it out in one of her journals later.

Her wondering thoughts were interrupted by being suddenly handed a hand book, inside was a description of the school grounds as well a map. Perfect. This would come in handy for later when she wanted to explore and could escape the crowds.

The blond quietly followed the mass of people before they were given their first instructions as new students to explore the crowds, as well as find their dorms to be able to drop off their belongings.

Deciding that this would be the best time to escape before she was approached by anymore... green haired people, Lucia began to squeeze by the crowd.

THUD.

Lucia was on the ground in a matter of moments, chin smacked on the ground leaving an ugly cut, as well as another cuts on her hands and knees from trying to catch herself from the sudden fall. She wanted nothing more than to lay their and contemplate her life choices with her hurt pride.

She slowly pushed herself up and sat on the ground, turning her head to see she had caught her foot on- a tail? Her eyes squinted at the strange limb, before glancing up to make eye contact with a blue haired girl. "...." She sat stunned and a lost for words. She had never seen someone with a tail before.

 

[WhiskeyMarten]

PERCIVAL 'PERCY' REMINGTON-BAINES

CS Link

SCENE:

Welcome to Rosengarten Conservatory

LOCATION:

Percy and Jaquino's Room, Rosengarten

PARTICIPANTS:

Jaquino

WELCOME HOME

“Yo!”

A figure appeared upside-down in Percy’s view as he lay back on his bed, his head hanging off the edge. He quickly reoriented himself, rolling off the bed and getting back to his feet, brushing off some dust.

“Jaquino, Qui, Jaquino, Qui” Percy ran through the options in his head, “How’s about I call you Jaq? Actually, whatever, don’t care, doesn’t matter.” He shrugged, before answering Qui’s offer.

“I’m coming with ya, I’m bored.” He turned back to his bed, quickly pulling a worn plushie out from its hiding spot in his cardigan, using his body to try and block Qui’s view, he shoved the little cat under the already messed up bedsheets, turning back around the face him.

Before he could speak, Gonzalo's voice rang through the school.

“Oh, that ain’t for me, I’m not a crazy. Anyway, you plannin’ on leavin’ this place?” Percy played with the end of his cardigan sleeve while he spoke, already picking a hole in the fabric.

 

[azenva]

Kina Roswyn Abrams

CS Link

SCENE:

go house to

LOCATION:

lucia’s manslaughter scene

PARTICIPANTS:

Kina, Lucia

Welcome Home

Sounds and noises and children, oh no.

Buoyancy was a problem for Kina, what with all the gems growing off her body, but a little elbow grease could get her back across the lake. Or she could sink to the bottom and walk. If one student could do it, why not two?

Besides those two methods, there was no readily apparent way off the ship. The alternative was to interact with the other students.

Going for a dip grew more tempting by the moment.

Kina looked back down at Ivay as his speech ramped up, her eyes back open but unfocused. His speech registered as sound, not language to hold on to or comprehend.

What Kina did comprehend was the castle looming over the ferry. It cut a menacing figure up close, a dark construction flanked by two pillars. The ship cruised to an eventual standstill. docking to deposit a final payload. Kina didn’t even spare a goodbye like Kasha had before taking off—it would have been drowned anyways.

After escaping Ivay’s verbal torrent, Kina made her way to the growing cluster of other students. (Children are not going to form an orderly line unless actively threatened to do so.) Obtaining another collection of rules, she decided that she may as well take a look at the map and see where to go. Following the group with her peripheral vision, Kina trailed slightly behind as she juggled walking and figuring out the map.

The students once again stopped as the counselor once again talked at them. Explore, don’t break any rules, do what you want, but go to your dorms. Kina bothered to look up and pay attention this time, but immediately went back to studying the layout.

A mistake.

As she looked down and started walking again, she walked directly into a smaller student. Looking up again like a bobblehead after hearing the sound of a flopped landing, Kina saw Lucia sprawled out on the ground.

What was that about first impressions, again?

The taller student glanced around for a bit as the latter took her time getting up. She really should have helped her up but…eh…no. Once Lucia had gotten to a sitting position and seemed too shocked to get up, Kina waited a tick too long before reaching down to lend a hand.

“Nurse’s office?”

 

[Coyote Hart]

SANTIAGO DE LEÓN

CS Link

SCENE:

Welcome Home

LOCATION:

Rosengarten

PARTICIPANTS:

Jason, Kiyumi, Leon, Yuuko, Ema

WELCOME HOME

The boat ride was short. Too short to cause chaos. Instead, all León could do was scour the cabinets that were near him and find a bag of expired trail mix, which he munched on as he watched the boat near the docks on the other side of the lake. The nuts in the mix tasted stale, and the raisins were a bit rubbery, but the M&Ms were perfectly chocolatey. León had known from the year of train jumping that when food said "best by" it never meant that it was inedible past that date.

León looked over at the two short gals who approached them, eager and pleased surprise shown in his bright eyes and the way his lips curled up in a smile. He let Jason handle the speaking, but when Jason began to speak in a hushed voice, León immediately acted as a wingman and walked to cover Jason's body from any school staff's sight. León's eyes wandered lazily around like a watchman, making sure that Jason's confessed crimes stayed with the group.

León had several reasons for doing that. For one, León didn't know why they had to limit their usage of their Potentials. For those who had violent tendencies, sure, it was understandable, but for others, their Potentials had more potential to do good than harm. But he also helped hide Jason because when a bro needed another bro to help them cover something up, helping was simply the right thing to do.

When Jason regained his calm, normal speaking tone, Leon suddenly felt the boy's arm hanging once again over León's shoulders, causing León to jolt in surprise. He visibly shrunk under Jason's grip, uncomfortable by the close skinship that they shared. But he still made an effort to introduce himself to the two women.

"Howdy ladies," León said with a wave of his thumb and pinkie finger in an attempt to look cool. Whether it was successful or not, with the vaguely masked look of discomfort on his face, was up to the girls to decide. "Seems I can't outdo Jason's introduction of me. It's good ta' meet you."

León was all for checking out the school as well. As a botanist, he was particularly interested in seeing what sorts of outdoor flora the school had, although going to the gym also was a sound idea.

Curious, León asked the two gals, "What year are you two in? Any chances that we might have classes together?"

León thought that it would be important to have friends in the same year as him, even if he was a year or so older than them. Friends like that would provide ample opportunities to copy their homework. And exploring the campus seemed like a great idea in order to get to know these people better.

Lucem BriiAngelic miki Beann

 

[The Regal Rper]

Qui | Castle Grounds Of Doom

"We're leaving right now in fact." Qui replied to Percy's request. And without furtherado- he walked out the door, sure Percy was in tow- specifically because he could hear his footsteps behind him.

It was not long they made it to the Entrance Hall that, Qui paused- seeing something quite peculiar. It was redhead- the one who scowled constantly and looked like he'd be ready to toss hands at anyone who looked at him in his perspective of funny. What was his name? He thought- trying to recall.

It started with an E, but there were so many options to go from there.

"Yo, what you doing over there fella?" Qui asked casually. "Looks like you're having a bit of trouble from the look on your face, need some help. The dude here" his thumb jabbing in Percy's direction, "and I were about to head out but we can detour. Qui" he said tapping his chest with a few fingers, "Percy" he jabbed back to the other guy behind him. From the looks of it he assumed E-man was having trouble figuring out his dorm- "what's your name by the way?"

Mentions: N/A

Interactions: WhiskeyMarten Doctor Llamabean

 

[miki]

EMA SUENAGA

CS Link

SCENE:

Welcome to Rosengarten Conservatory

LOCATION:

Rosengarten

PARTICIPANTS:

Yuuko, Jason, Leon, Kiyumi

WELCOME HOME

OH, SWEET SWEET LAND. Ema would have dropped to her knees and started bowing to the earth if it wouldn’t have made her look weird. The second the boat hit the dock, Ema nearly clawed her hand into Yuuko’s as she helped her up.

Now on land, Ema had let Yuuko drag her over to a mysterious boy she had wanted to talk to. They had been stopped in their tracks by Dr. Gonzalo and given their handbooks, but Yuuko was still just as intent on talking to the dark-haired wonder. The handbook Ema was given revealed that her roommate was Jasmine, the serene and serious girl with a braid. It was sad that her roommate wasn’t so sociable, but Ema made her peace with it. She didn’t need to be best friends with her roommate.

Finally, nothing stood in the way of Yuuko approaching the strange boy who had tapped her on the shoulder. Apparently, whatever had made Yuuko so interested in him was his potential—which probably was against the rules, but it didn’t seem so harmful to Ema.

Ema looked at him—more specifically, at his eyes. The irises were a bright gold. Shiny like little stars, trillions of kilometers away from the earth. His eyes were the type of golden Ema wanted for herself.

"Oh yeah, I didn't catch your name. Don't think I gave you mine either." The boy put his arms around his friend’s shoulders. "Name's Jason. That's Léon, and that's Kiyumi." He nodded at the boy and girl beside him respectively.

"Howdy ladies," The tan-skinned boy with amber eyes just darker than Jason’s threw up a shaka hand. "Seems I can't outdo Jason's introduction of me. It's good ta' meet you."

After all three were done introducing themselves, Ema nodded her head with a smile. “It’s nice to meet you all! I’m Ema, and this is Yuuko!” Ema gestured to the girl beside her, confident that introducing Yuuko herself would help ease whatever nervous breakdown she had been having earlier.

When that was done, Jason addressed the both of them with a question. "You two up for explorin' the school with us? Kinda wanted to check out the gym. Cafeteria doesn't sound bad either."

“That’s a really good idea! This place is really big, and I don’t wanna get lost later. Plus, I bet there’s tons of really cool secrets around campus…” Ema stopped herself before she rambled on. “—I’d love to!”

When Leon asked about their grades, Ema responded with a nod to acknowledge his question. “We’re both in year eleven. What about you?”

Spoiler

Mentions:
BriiAngelic The Regal Rper

 

[Doctor Llamabean]

EUSTASS FINNEGAN

CS Link

SCENE:

Welcome to Rosengarten Conservatory

LOCATION:

Entrance Hall

PARTICIPANTS:

11th and 12th Year Students

WELCOME HOME

Crouched, letting the floor serve as his desk, Eustass flipped through the handbook with two fingers—index and thumb—pinching the papers’ edges as if he thought them dirty.

At the words on glossy, compiled sheets, he glared irate. A restless grunt.

How’m I supposed to figure my way out! …when he could hardly read, much less comprehend the information that the words he could understand tried to convey.

The facility was meant to teach him, but funding was tight, and there was only so much a single instructor could cover in just six months with a classroom of delinquent teenagers who were still struggling with the bare basics of academics. Much less did they have time to catch Eustass up from a third-grade reading level.

All of the sudden, reverberating whispers fell from intercom speakers and swept the entire school, causing Eustass to flinch. He stood up, searching for the source of the voice for only a brief stretch of frightened wonderment, then he scowled at the mention of his own name.

What now!? I DON’T KNOW WHERE YOU FUCKING ARE!

The speakers went quiet. And from that silence, another voice was found.

“Yo, what you doing over there fella?”

Red-faced and features shaped by hatred, Eustass turned to the bowl-cut blond, recalling him from the boat, and regarded him with disgust, as though the other calling out to him had been the utmost offense one could have committed.

“Huuh?” he growled, upper lip curling. However, as the blond went on, Eustass adopted a more neutral demeanor. As neutral as was neutral for someone like him, glare still prominent, body language still defensive.

He could use them.

Without responding to anything the blond had said—Qui, apparently, was his name—Eustass bent forward to pick up his handbook with four fingers, all but his pinkie, and he tossed it at their feet. The papers fluttered frantically.

“F-.. Find me the bitch-” Eustass’ eyes pinched, head twisting as he coiled slightly and fought to get the words out. “The bitch from- from.. from the speakers!”

(Interacting w/ Qui, Percy)
(Mentioned Gonzalo)
AriAriAbabwa Elenion Aura Nobody Special The Regal Rper Roda the Red @simj26 @Anne Boolean BriiAngelic angel doe @Misuteeku BluEndings gxxberkit @The One Eyed Bandit Anaee Beann Coyote Hart WhiskeyMarten Kyuubey Lucem @YumenoTsukishiro ATurei azenva miki @mi casa @The Prophet​

 

[WhiskeyMarten]

PERCIVAL 'PERCY' REMINGTON-BAINES

CS Link

SCENE:

Welcome to Rosengarten Conservatory

LOCATION:

Entrance Hall, Rosengarten

PARTICIPANTS:

Eustass, Jaquino

WELCOME HOME

Percy whistled a nonsensical tune as he walked after Jaquino, scuffing the floorboards with his new shoes as they headed to the Entrance Hall. Percy didn’t know the way they were going, nor did he particularly care. He was more than ready to venture wherever his heart would take him.

It seemed their adventure had come to a halt as they approached Eustass, Percy greeting him with a grin. He liked this one already, he had decided, not that there was any rhyme or reason to that decision. He was silent until he was introduced.

"Percy"
“It’s Percy.” The boy interjected. What difference it made was unknown, but Percy seemed proud to make the correction. He leaned over briefly to look at the paper that had been tossed his way, before looking back up at Eustass with his head cocked to the side.

“I don’t need one o’ them, I got one. But I think I know your bitch.”

That wasn’t helpful, nor did it answer Eustass’s demands, but he was proud of that response as well. He kicked the handbook lightly, crumpling a few of the pages. That wasn’t helpful either, but he didn’t sign up to be a navigator.

“You one of them people needing a mental health thing? What’s wrong with you?” It was well-meaning, maybe, but again. Not. Helpful.

Percy continued to grin.

 

[Nobody Special]

TIAGO DE CAVALCANTE

CS Link

SCENE:

Welcome to Rosengarten Conservatory

LOCATION:

School Courtyard

PARTICIPANTS:

Angela Gonzalo

WELCOME HOME

Tiago’s grip on the doorknob loosened once his ears picked up the feedback that came with the activation of the school’s intercom system. Perhaps this place isn’t as dated as it seems.

He listened intently to the words that came out of the school counselor’s mouth. Somehow, despite only hearing her speak a few times before their arrival, he was able to discern her voice and realize who she was. Maybe it was her eccentric tone of voice, or perhaps it was something else…

His eyes closed when he heard his name being called throughout the entire building, and his hand released the doorknob completely. A… mental health check? He scoffed to himself, gazing up at the nearest speaker with an insulted expression. As if royalty such as himself would need something as trivial as that! He was perfectly fine. A golden child, borne to the Cavalcante family, who was here merely because of a lapse of judgment when it came to a certain someone.

But then, before he could internally refuse and ignore the announcement outright, his mind began to constantly be pounded by that one damned word– mandatory. He couldn’t allow himself to forget that his royal status meant little to the authorities of this institution. He would have to submit to them– for now– while still standing tall and appearing as royalty worthy of respect amongst his peers.

And so, using the map he had planned on studying in the comfort of his dorm, he reluctantly made his way towards the courtyard, appearing to be the first one to arrive.

There she was. The counselor, whose name he had already forgotten, was standing before him– carrying that same unsettling glint in her eyes that she had when he had examined her for the first time. With crossed arms, he cleared his throat before addressing her.

“Well? Are you going to get this over with now, or must I wait for the other two to bump into as many walls as they can before they make it here?” He asked, speaking loudly and clearly while keeping a safe distance from the staff member. “I would like you to know that I find this to be ridiculous, by the way– I can assure you that my ‘mental health’ is up to whatever standard you may have. Though, I must say that I appreciate you for wasting my time early into this free time session rather than later. I have plans.”

gxxberkit

 

[Beann]

TATSUDA KIYUMI

CS Link

SCENE:

Welcome to Rosengarten Conservatory

LOCATION:

Rosengarten

PARTICIPANTS:

Jason, Kiyumi, Leon, Yuuko, Ema

WELCOME HOME

Despite all of the shenanigans that occurred before and after boarding the boat, Kiyumi simply observed with a lazy smile. The guitar performance from another student was pretty sick as she bobbed her head along, up until Gonzalo asked him to stop playing. She internally sighed, leaning further back against the railing as Jason pulled himself away from the Ponytail Pack. Her eyes followed her new friend, watching him approach a female student who appeared to be distressed. “Hmm,” she hummed lightly as she watched their small exchange, noting how real Jason was for sticking his neck out for a homie in need. The rest of the boat ride was pretty chill and just as she was about to zone out in a daydream, their arrival was announced. “End of the line, Ponytail Peeps.”

The group of students were escorted off the boat and towards the academy grounds. Kiyumi followed beside Jason, with Leon on his other side. They were all given a handbook, one that she’d probably read. Maybe. Eventually. The map would be useful to her and Leon though if they wanted to sneak around and see what cool shit would be found here.

Once they neared the entrance of the definitely not ominous castle, Gonzalo instructed the group to enjoy their free time and explore. Shit, it was that easy? For a second, Kiyumi thought they’d have a strict schedule to follow but she wasn’t gonna echo those thoughts out loud. She considered what the trio could do, opening the handbook to the map to see if anything interested her at all. Before she could decide, however, two female students approached them, their attention mostly on Jason.

“‘Sup,” she gave them a brief chin tilt as she was introduced, leaning into Jason slightly as he returned his arms around her and Leon. “I’m down for whatever. Can never go wrong with food though — most of the realest conversations I had was while eating,” at two in the morning but the details weren’t that important.

“Year eleven, huh? Sick, we’ll probably be in the same classes then.”

Lucem Coyote Hart miki BriiAngelic

 

[AriAriAbabwa]

DEXY THORNTON #609D95

CS Link

SCENE:

WELCOME TO DEXY'S FUTURE LAIR

LOCATION:

DEXY'S FUTURE DOCKS

PARTICIPANTS:

DEXY AND UNOFFICIAL UNDERLINGS

WELCOME HOME, DEXY!!

"Good idea, Mrs. Ramen Hair! My authority shall be heard better when the waves and boat engine are not muffling my showcase!"

And so Dexy piped down for the remainder of the boat ride. She eagerly scurried off the ship, though apparently forgetting the promise she made to laugh again when they reached dry land. The handout was more amusing to her. "What an exquisite tissue this is!" she said, putting her head in the staff's face as she emphasized the word "tissue."

"The two of us, sharing a room? You must feel honored! I wonder what kind of servants await us in—BWAH!" Something hit the top of her head with a solid 'thunk.' Dexy spun around to see... the cheeky prince-like man from earlier! "You dare strike me? The Unparalleled Darkness, Exalted Queen of Torment, Heiress of Villainy that Stalks the Mortal Realm, Heralding Death and Destruction to All that Humankind Holds Dear with No Remorse? I will have you know I—!" He was leaving? The audacity of this child!

Dexy nudged Shion. "Well, my Brigadier General, as you just saw, our loyal servants require a bit of discipline! This calls for a reprimanding action! As much as I would like to see what accommodations behold us within, my evil revenge is more important! Let's follow him! Onward!" She pointed after Tiago, running off in his direction.

And follow him they did, with Dexy tip-toeing around every corner to stick her head out sideways. She, unusually silent, kept this up until they followed Tiago There were so many possibilities! She could draw a dog mocking him on a paper and slip it under the door! Or maybe a classic Whoopee Cushion! Or something even more vile, such as ding-dong ditching him!

But interrupting her thoughts was the school intercom, summoning three people (her cheeks puffed with silenced laughter at "Used-Ass") to the courtyard. Were they being executed? She read something about this back home! In the very olden days, public executions were all the rage! Maybe "mandatory mental health checkup" was a code to get them going there!

And as fate would have it, Tiago began lamenting about the need to go. Dexy realized he was obviously one of the three people called up; probably "Used-Ass."

Dexy turned to Shion with a glimmer in her eyes. "You hear that, Commander-in-Chief? That's our opportunity! We will follow the brat and prank him!" She walked in a tiny circle as Tiago left, coming up with an idea a second later. "I will find a white sheet and scare him by making him think there's a ghost! Your duty will be to make the scariest noises possible and add to the ambiance! What say you, Grand Admiral?"

ATurei Nobody Special gxxberkit

 

[BluEndings]

'GIP' CLEMMONS

CS Link

SCENE:

Welcome to Rosengarten Conservatory

LOCATION:

The Docks -> Entrance Hall

PARTICIPANTS:

Leslie

WELCOME HOME

“Huh?”

Gip’s dismay was splayed like elastic pulled to the brink.

All of the pessimism that had overshadowed their expression just earlier had been washed away with something more expected of a typical student. The tension and uncertainty was recklessly painted over with a much more cheery awkwardness, and amplified by their tardy attempts to remain easygoing. A brainless kneading of their oat hair, and a plaintive tittering that concluded briskly were but the tip of the iceberg for their fiddly display.

“...Huh?” They repeated, failing to recognize how much time their confusion had cost.

It was only then that their usual incredulous thoughts caught up, and they began to wonder about the specifics of the request. It was true that the girl’s bangs did somewhat obscure her eyes, but it didn’t seem very necessary to require a guide. Unless her comment was more in relation to a clumsy nature, there was most certainly something else at play here. Gip’s ‘brief’ perplexity had caused a cease in realistic assessment of human nature, and that fact may have nearly cost them.

Until this moment, they had forgotten entirely of their early offense, but that didn’t mean Leslie had. In fact, everything would make a lot more sense if this was just some ploy to humiliate them. Was she going to push him into the water and frame it as a product of ‘not finding her steps?’ If you really thought about it, if someone like her did misstep there would be absolutely nothing Gip themselves could do. They would just fall with her—

Having spent so long tangled in worries, Gip had failed to realize that the pair had already made it safely ashore. Though thoughts had continued to spiral into a consistent melancholy, their hand had taken her own to provide the necessary assistance. How and when that happened was unclear, but the fact was that the two crossing was a thing of the past.

“...Huh?”

It was like Gip had come into contact with searing metal. The sheer speed at which they released their tottering grip, was second only to them bolting to a distanced adjacence.

“Oh wow! Haha!” They capered. “Silly me! Look at the time!”

“I guess I was a little too careful with the steps, that everyone’s gotten ahead of us!”

“We’d best not dilly dally and hurry scurry!”

The precise moment Gip had made it past—and thoroughly behind—the entrance doors, was the exact moment the abrupt goofy facade shattered into solitary carmine embarrassment.

Spoiler: Mentions

@simj26

 

[The Regal Rper]

Qui | Castle Grounds Of Doom | Infirmary

He should've said it. The word 'phrasing' was on the tip of his tongue- but he wisely chose not to. And with how Percy jumped in with his usual blissfully unaware sense of lost tact, it was a miracle that fists were not already flying.

Or they could be, and if that were the case, he'd easily step out of the line of fire.

Percy seemed like he could take a punch- thought Qui, as he side-eyed his companion before his gaze shifted back to Eustass.

They certainly would have to at his old school, especially with just how Percy had so bluntly asked that question.

"OH!" He interjected and smacked his forehead loudly, "that- ahem- bitch! Of course, of course. We can take you to her immediately!" He had already memorized the map of course so it wouldn't be hard for him to lead the frazzled redhead towards the designation of his choice. "Look at that, from student to free guide! I'm already making leaps and its only the start of the day! Well, c'mon now let's get moving!" And without haste he brushed past the perpetually glaring redhead- prepared to gander towards the designated spot of the good and kind counselor.

The trek in question was an arduous task, filled with many steps that were dominated by environment of Qui's occasional questioning. Such as: "So, what exactly are you in here for?"

As if they had just been tossed in a cell together- it seemed only nice to ask his cellmate-- classmate-- what exactly had drawn him too this Neverland-esque school. Not that he expected a response, not from him or Percy to be honest on those private details. He however, "Believe it or not I actually was stumbled upon by an agent propositioning the name of the school in an open street one day when I came upon the awareness of this school's opening." Qui went on. "I so look forward to seeing what's in store for us here." He beamed over his shoulder, behind his shades at his two travelling companions.

Because honestly, he wondered how well the rest of the people in this place would measure up to the revelation that things were going to be worse than the happy atmosphere projected on day one. He hoped the rest were just as suspicious as he- in fact, from Eustass alone, he suspected the guy certainly was with his attitude.

Or maybe he was just peckish and felt shy about asking for some grub. He seemed like the hangry sort, so he wouldn't put it past him. Percy on the other hand- he wasn't entirely certain, but he'd known a guy once who acted carefree and negligent- only to reveal they were surprising observant in the same breathe too. People were full of surprises.

He'd learned that over years of working Father's business, and being backstabbed more than once.

He couldn't help but wonder what sort of surprises a bunch of NP- powerless people, were going to have in store for a group of potentially unruly, rule-breaking, misdemeanor acting teens.

These thoughts got pushed to the back of his mind however as they reached their destination- and Qui with open arms greeted the approaching path like a long lost friend. "Ah ha ha ha! Here we are!"

Mentions: N/A

Interactions: WhiskeyMarten Doctor Llamabean

 

[Doctor Llamabean]

EUSTASS FINNEGAN

CS Link

SCENE:

Welcome to Rosengarten Conservatory

LOCATION:

Courtyard

PARTICIPANTS:

11th and 12th Year Students

WELCOME HOME

Eustass eyed the one called Percy with caution, shifting his stance to one more suited for a quick retreat in case he, Percy, got too close.

Lucky for him, he didn’t.

Lucky for who? Lucky for Percy, Eustass thought.

“You one of them people needing a mental health thing? What’s wrong with you?”

Sprawled fingers twitched at that, Eustass’ brows deepening in their furrow, his head jerking to the side per his uncontrollable tics. As if this guy was one to talk.

“The only thing wrong with me-... wrong with me is-.. th-.. this-.. this fucking p-..” Eyes shut tight, lips pressed in their continued effort to get the word out. “Place!” He stomped on that, then he flinched when Qui spoke up.

“OH!” The blond smacked himself on the forehead—Eustass’ expression jerked into one of annoyed puzzlement, eyes flitting between the two before him—then the blond went on, “Of course, of course. We can take you to her immediately!”

Eustass waited, glaring.

Qui moved, still speaking, and inched too close for comfort. In response, Eustass was forced to shuffle aside so as not to be touched, and he quickly positioned himself at the back of the three-man group, insistent on it. That’s where he found most comfort. The back. No one behind him; no looking over his shoulder.

He left his handbook behind—couldn’t read the damned thing anyway.

Shoulders swaying on a smug gait, he stared at the backs of their heads and listened to Qui’s incessant rambling, letting the words turn to mush in his ears, lost of form or meaning. Just a waste of breath.

A waste of breath.

Just a... fucking waste of breath.

Qui’s brains squelched like wet noodles between his fingers before crumbling away to copper-red bits of hard ash.

Eustass blinked, stopping when the sound of footsteps ceased.

“Ah ha ha ha! Here we are!” They had arrived at their destination, the courtyard, welcomed by the sweet aroma of roses and sharp scent of healthy greenery. But Eustass wasn’t one to appreciate. Golden hues scanned the courtyard with swift, penetrating observation, noting the Counselor, the tall blond in addition to his bowl-cut guide, a patchwork leg on the ground halfway hidden behind a bush, and the one called Percy.

Those were the bodies present. Those were the threats.

Carefully stepping around Qui and Percy, facing them throughout the duration of his maneuver from the back of their trio to the front, Eustass shuffled a retreat, feeling the grass of the courtyard underfoot. He put some distance between himself and them before deciding it was safe to turn.

Then he halted ten feet from Gonzalo, angled at a distance from the blond but watching him.

(Interacting w/ Qui, Percy, Tiago, Gonzalo)
(Mentioned Kasha)
AriAriAbabwa Elenion Aura Nobody Special The Regal Rper Roda the Red @simj26 @Anne Boolean BriiAngelic angel doe @Misuteeku BluEndings gxxberkit @The One Eyed Bandit Anaee Beann Coyote Hart WhiskeyMarten Kyuubey Lucem @YumenoTsukishiro ATurei azenva miki @mi casa @The Prophet​

 

[Kyuubey]

EVERLY CLARISSA HARTINGALE

CS Link

SCENE:

Welcome to Rosengarten Conservatory

LOCATION:

The Ferry

PARTICIPANTS:

Ivaylo

WELCOME HOME

Eyes that resembled the night sky peeking over the setting sun slowly lifted to peer at the unfamiliar voice that had yanked her out of her anxiety ridden state. They widened just the slightest, enough to express the surprise there, before they settled back into a more normal gaze.

I didn't meet my demise after-all... I was sure with all that rocking that we were for sure doomed.

That death grip she’d once used on her violin case like it was the only thing anchoring her in the present also began to lessen. Whomever this stranger was, their voice and demeanor was strikingly pleasant. It made a nervous smile slowly spread in response. To be caught in such disarray was rather humiliating but the boy seemed friendly and just wanted to lend a helping hand. Or perhaps he too was looking for a companion and Everly was more than delighted to oblige.

That stranger soon had a name. Ivaylo. How unique. Definitely not a name she’d ever come across before. “ Being on a boat is a little perturbing. “ She admitted in a meek voice as she attempted to pry herself away from the wall. It took a few good tries, visible strains of effort, before her nerves allowed her more control over her potential and she was released from the magnetic grip that had once cemented her in place to the wall.

Another sheepish look was shot his way as one by one she willed the fingers of one of her hands off the handle of the case and held it out towards the other student. The thought of hugging him had also been an option but she feared she’d be unable to release him if she went that route. The fear of their journey over the water had yet to dissipate but Ivay was slowly chasing it off just with his presence.

“ So lovely to make your acquaintance, Ivaylo. I’m Everly! I’d love it if I could accompany you. It appears we're in the same year too so we I hope we can stick together. “ If he grabbed her hand, she’d hastily slide her fingers between his to entwine them in a locked handhold. Truthfully she didn’t mind the physical notion and having the extra support to not fall off the boat on the way off was an added bonus. It was better than almost snapping her violin case in half from the panic still crawling along her skin and weighing down her limbs.

She peered at his snowy white locks that framed his face and found herself tracing the outlines of his ears. Her head tilted off to the side as she continued to examine him and with each passing second her smile seemed to grow into a much more genuine one that was brimming with warmth.

“ I absolutely love your ears! “ Eve exclaimed, the focus on them starting to melt away the previous dread to replace it with higher spirits. The temptation to touch them was dangerously rising. That would be incredibly rude though given the only thing she knew about him was his name. A request for later, perhaps. Still holding her violin case in her other hand, she began to sway it back and forth gleefully to signify the start of their journey towards the academy. “ Shall we? “

Roda the Red

 

[BriiAngelic]

Yuuko Shibuya

CS Link

SCENE:

Welcome to Rosengarten Conservatory

LOCATION:

Off the Boat->Courtyard

PARTICIPANTS:

Ema, Jason, Leon, Kiyumi

Welcome Home

"Hmm? Oh, that? That was just-That was just my Potential. Deals with pain, stress, and other stuff like that. Pretty sure I'm not supposed to use it here though, so it cool if we keep that between us?"

Immediately Yuuko understood the gravity of what he meant by that even if she was unsure if he did. One of the first thing she’d been warned about was her potential. She didn’t have a way of controlling or turning her off so she’d been exempt from that specific rule for obvious reasons. She found herself quickly nodding her head more aggressively than necessary.

“Of course! Thank you so much for that by the way. Its…. hard at best reining it in to control and at worst…. Well that’s why I’m here anyways.”

She listened intently as she heard each of them introduced doing her best to memorize each name mouthing them silently as they were introduced. She even missed out on introducing herself as she did this hearing Ema introduce the two of them for her. Thank goodness for her, she was already doing a crap job at it so far.

“Year eleven, huh? Sick, we’ll probably be in the same classes then.”

“You’re year eleven too then huh? I’m glad we’re getting to meet some more people in our grade. That probably means you’re on the same floor as us too then huh?”

She looked back down at her handbook glancing at the names on the map of their floor. She also glanced around the map looking for the cafeteria and gym at the same time. She kinda wanted to put her bag away before going anywhere, especially since it felt kind of odd carrying a bag full of just art supplies, underwear, and accessories, but she didn’t want to miss the vital first impressions.

“I still haven’t managed to meet my roommate yet though. Hoping that she’s nice considering it’ll be the whole year… Looks like both the gym and the cafeteria are in the northern tower past the courtyard so if we follow this path down we should reach both pretty quickly.”

miki Lucem Coyote Hart Beann

 

[Elenion Aura]

The Twins

SCENE:

Welcome to Rosengarten Conservatory

LOCATION:

Castle Grounds

PARTICIPANTS:

Ema, Jason, Leon, Kiyumi, Yuuko

WELCOME HOME

"Huh... Yer right, that's the best way to go."​

Izumi loomed over the top of Yuuko's head, peering down over her shoulder at the map and handbook, his brows furrowing together as his fingers stroked his chin.

Mizuto emerged on the other side of the tiny brigade, his hands clasped imperiously by the small of his back. The twins, and their intimate knowledge of the castle and surrounding grounds, made them quite adept at popping up out of nowhere, so it would seem.

"Don't mind my brother."​

Mizuto purred, smiling softly at the fresh students. To this, Izumi made a sour face but made no other argument. Ignoring it, Mizuto went on.

"I trust you all are getting on well, so far... Ah! Where are my manners? My name is Mizuto. And this, as you may have guessed, is I—"​

"—zumi!"​

Izumi cut in.

"We're prefects! Twelfth year. If ya got questions, come ta' us."​

"... Indeed."​

miki Lucem Coyote Hart Beann BriiAngelic

 

[Lucem]

JASON PALMER

CS Link

SCENE:

Welcome to Rosengarten Conservatory

LOCATION:

The Docks

PARTICIPANTS:

Jason, Ema, Izumi, Kiyumi, León, Mizuto, Yuuko

WELCOME HOME

Unlike before, Jason took notice of how León reacted to his touch. It was a lot more obvious now, enough for even someone like him to notice. When the boy tried to shrink away, Jason removed his hand and took a step back, now leaning further into Kiyumi.

"Not a fan? Sorry 'bout that. My bad." It was a genuine apology, but his calm, casual tone and demeanor remained. He never even considered that such close contact wasn't normal for a lot of people, especially after spending so little time together. For him, that was just standard. It had been that way with his family, friends, and pretty much anyone he took even a little liking to. Because of that, he was a bit confused by León's reaction.

Slipping his recently freed hand into his pocket, he turned his attention back to the girls in front of him. The taller of the two picked up from where their conversation left off, nodding a bunch before expressing her gratitude and giving some insight into her situation. Jason just tilted his head to the side a bit, listening to it all.

"Well, if you're really havin' trouble, you could always come to me if ya want. Don't mind helpin' a buddy out." Jason didn't fully get what she meant when she talked about her reason for coming to Rosengarten, but he more or less understood that anxiety stuff was getting to her. It sounded like things could get pretty rough, so he was down to help out. The rule he had just been worrying about a second ago was completely forgotten when he made the offer.

If he had an extra moment to process things, he might have spoken up again, but the latest topic around him completely stole his attention. He learned the names of his newest friends, and they were talking about student years. That was another thing he'd completely forgotten about.

"Oh yeah, I never asked you guys that either. I'm in year eleven too. Looks like we'll be spendin' a lot of time together." He shot León a quick look, realizing his pal hadn't given his own answer yet. "What about you? Eleven like the rest of us?"

While he waited on León to respond, Ema and Yuuko both agreed to join the little party they had going. Jason was prepared to set off and start making his way down the path Yuuko mentioned, but two slightly familiar faces popped up out of nowhere and made him put a pause on that plan. Actually, it was just one familiar face.

After the twins introduced themselves, Jason finally remembered where he saw them. They were the prefects for the academy. Positions like that didn't exist at Jason's old schools, but he did vaguely recall seeing them in a movie a long time ago. They were like some kind of discipline people. He could appreciate that.

"Yo, name's Jason. You guys make sure people follow the rules and stuff, right? Right on." He gave the twins a thumbs-up as he looked them over. He may not have been a prefect, but he kinda filled a similar role back at home. Gramps also made sure people stayed in line while he was on duty, so Jason respected what his seniors were doing.

"Questions, huh? Hmm..." He went silent for a moment, waiting for something to come to him. "You guys wanna come with?" All that came to him was the idea to extend an invite. More people meant more fun.

"Oh." Before he got an answer to his initial question, another one popped into his brain. A real question. "Info said Potentials aren't allowed here, but what about in emergencies and stuff? There some form we can fill out to get permission or somethin'?"

Being able to use his Potential would make things a lot easier when it came to everyday stuff like sleep and minor aches, but it also came in handy during a pinch. There was also Yuuko's situation to consider. Would the school make an exception for that?

Beann BriiAngelic Coyote Hart Elenion Aura miki

 

[Roda the Red]

IVAYLO VODENICHAROV

CS Link

SCENE:

Welcome to Rosengarten Conservatory

LOCATION:

The Docks

PARTICIPANTS:

Everly

Welcome Home

The darkness and negativity overwhelming Ivaylo's mind disappeared as quickly as it previously arrived due to the previous misfortune. His eyes going wide and his expression filled with joy as the girl in front of him extended her hand towards him, a surprisingly heartwarming gesture when compared to the apathy of those harpies from earlier.

"Everly, huh? Cute name!"

The white-haired boy took her hand. He admitedly did not expect her to interlock her fingers with him like that, getting caught completely off-guard by it, Everly might have noticed that the moment she did so, his body went stiff for a fraction of a section. However, he managed to downplay it by simply avoiding to aknowledge it, giving her hand a tender squeeze in return. His ears perked up by hearing her comment on his...well, ears.

"Why thank you! I'm kind of proud of them, actually, your horns though, they're super cute as well!" He now felt no real worry in throwing a compliment back at her, and it really wasn't a lie in the slightest. The girl itself was in fact quite cute as a whole, the blue hair, the glasses, her short stature, in truth he would've given her a big hug of he could, but even for the extroverted Ivaylo, that would've been too much in too little time. Should they become friends in the near future, he would then not hold back in his displays of affection.

He nodded at her question, pulling her hand as the two walked out of the boat, stopping briefly for a moment so that Everly could get a hold of her own guide, then their walking resumed.

"So! It sounds like we're free for now, so we can just look around" With his one free hand, Ivay managed rummage through the pages of his guidebook, taking, checking the areas that would be worth checking out right away. Then, a voice that came from the nearby speakers echoed throughout the vicinity, letting the students know that a mental health checkup was due to take place today. "Huh, well It's not our turn yet so we can take it easy for now, so...Wanna head over to your dorm first? So you can leave your violin at your room and then we'll look around the rest of the place, also, you HAVE to let me hear you play sometime, 'kay?" He gave her a friendly wink on his last comment.

Spoiler: Outfit combination

-Short sleeved shirt

-Shorts

-No cardigan

Kyuubey

 

[Coyote Hart]

SANTIAGO DE LEÓN

CS Link

SCENE:

Welcome Home

LOCATION:

Castle Grounds

PARTICIPANTS:

Jason, Kiyumi, León, Yuuko, Ema, the Twins

WELCOME HOME

A full group of eleven years, coincidentally all bound together. All of the Ponytail Gang, and both of the two newcomers. It seemed hilariously unlikely if Leon didn't see proof right in front of him. Before he answered Jason's question though, he pulled Jason's arm so that it once again draped over León's shoulder despite his discomfort, "Nah. No reason to say sorry. It's a me issue."

León knew that his discomfort with physical contact needed to be mended at some point. It got in the way of his interactions, although he just couldn't help but feel like hugs and skinship were not the right things to indulge in. But since he was the one initiating it... it felt less uncomfortable. Maybe it was because he was in control.

"Sorry, I'm a thirteenth year," León said in response to Jason's assumption and addressing the entire group, a twitch of a smile on his lips. He let the moment last for a moment before bursting out with laughter and corrected himself with a hasty wave of his hand, "Nah, I'm just pulling your leg. 'Course I'm an eleventh year. No way am I gonna letcha guys down by breaking the trend. Emma, Yuuko, very very nice to meet you."

León was already beginning to move the group down the path that Yuuko mentioned. The Ponytail Gang's idea of food was not half bad. The expired trail mix that he ate wasn't doing anything to satiate his hunger, and León was feeling the need for warm food to combat the cold weather at the lake. Besides, there was no better way to get to know new people than with a nice hearty meal, especially since they were likely gonna be León's friends. Marion, his sibling, had always told him that those who you live with and those who you take classes with were going to become your friends.

"I'm sure that you'll have a great roommate, but if not," León shot some finger guns at Yuuko, "Y'know where ta' find me."

But as León moved towards the cafeteria, he suddenly heard the two twins almost apparate behind him. Despite his bold demeanor, a momentary chill came over him. They hadn't heard the stuff about potentials, did they? Mizuto seemed prim and proper, so he'd likely be the most angry about rule-breaking while Izumi... Izumi gave off the impression that León had a chance to corrupt him, although the accuracy of León's impression was yet to be seen.

"Well, guys and gals, it seems that the prefects decided ta pay a visit to the Ponytail Gang and Co," León recovered quickly from his surprise to spring a question of his own, "What do you guys recommend from the mess hall? What's good?"

It would be interesting if the Twins joined them, but it would also be difficult to get the tomfoolery that León wanted to do get done under their watchful eyes. Regardless, León's feet already began to trail towards the dining hall and gym, the slow glide of his feet acting as an attempt of pulling the others with him.

Lucem BriiAngelic Beann miki Elenion Aura

 

[gxxberkit]

Cree H. B. Stave

CS Link

SCENE:

Welcome to Rosengarten Conservatory

LOCATION:

The Dorms

PARTICIPANTS:

Jay

WELCOME HOME

An excited nod was given to her friend at the suggestion of going to the dorms first. Jay seemed to have a million things in her hand— it’d be for the best. Cree, in contrast, only had the clothes on her back.

Suddenly, the tables turned, and now Cree was the one being dragged along. Cree managed to not stumble and fall herself by walking with huge steps until she stabilized. Now firmly on both feet, onwards, they went!


It was Jay’s dorm. A little boring, huh? Did every dorm look like this? Cree hoped hers looked a little… cooler. She noticed the bookshelf lined with textbooks— ooh, is that an Amestrian textbook? Skipping over, Cree grabbed the book and opened it, flipping to a random page. She skimmed it as she waited for Jay to be done putting her stuff away.

Looking through the book, it seemed like Cree and Jay were in the same grade! Well, that was her second clue— they were on the same floor, too, so… but, this just confirmed it! She bounced on her tippy-toes. “Hey, did you know we’re in the same grade?”

Behind her, footsteps made their way back to the door, prompting Cree to put the book away. She also placed Jay’s handbook into the bookshelf beside the textbook— for safe keeping. Then, she followed Jay out.

She blinked at her, humming. “Oh! Um, I don’t have anything on me,” she said, holding her notably almost-empty hands up— the only exception being the handbook she planned on using as a map. All the best pirates used maps, you know. “See? So we can just go exploring now!”

Cree took the first steps out to lead the way, taking Jay through the school with her own map’s handbook.

angel doe

 

[gxxberkit]

Angela Gonzalo

SCENE:

Welcome to Rosengarten Conservatory

LOCATION:

Courtyard > Gonzalo's Office.

PARTICIPANTS:

Eustass, Tiago, Kasha, Qui

WELCOME HOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The doors pushed open to the courtyard, Gonzalo surveying the area. No one was there except for Kasha, hidden behind some bushes. She hummed, closing her eyes to take in the smell of the roses.

The courtyard was beautifully maintained— perhaps the most well-maintained part of the castle in her opinion. She was proud of it, though it wasn’t her doing.

Eventually, one of the other two students she called showed up, prompting her to open her eyes. How long had she been standing there? Not too long, she hoped. She smiled at his arrival, though immediately taken aback by his attitude.

…No matter!

“Actually, one of them is already here,” she gestured to the rose bushes, “so hopefully you won’t have to wait much longer! And, mental health issues can be hard to spot on your own for some people; and we only want you to be the best you can be.”

Just then, five more children would show up— one of them being the one they were waiting for. Oh, goodie! She waved at all of them, a gentle smile turned to the two accompanying Eustass. “Thank you boys for helping him here. I appreciate it!”

Eustass made his way up to Tiago and Gonzalo, earning a soft nod from the counselor.

“Now that we’re all here— Kasha, please stand up— would the three of you follow me, please?”

She turned around and went back through the doors she had entered through just earlier.

Deep into the Northern Wing, she led them. They passed the cafeteria and gym, along with the pool. Through a set of double doors, they stepped into another hallway.

Marble was now white linoleum, and rooms without windows lined the hall. White LEDs shone from overhead. Unfamiliar staff roamed, and stares were directed at the three teenagers that followed Gonzalo.

They went through the first door to the right. Much cozier than the hallway it stemmed from, the floor was a warm wood and fun chairs were placed around the room accompanied by colorful desks. She seemed to have decorated the room herself, with how much pride showed in her face as they entered.

She slid into her own chair— a basic black office chair, a stark contrast from the homey room— holding up her clipboard. The golden frames on her face were adjusted.

“Ready? Let’s talk.”

Doctor Llamabean Nobody Special The Regal Rper

 

[Elenion Aura]

Rosengarten Conservatory

SCENE:

The First Night

LOCATION:

The Commons, Rosengarten Castle

PARTICIPANTS:

11th and 12th years

THE FIRST NIGHT

As the students moved through the grounds, the day wore on, with the sun gradually sinking towards the horizon, casting a golden glow across the lake. The ferry chugged away, the rhythmic throb of its engine vibrating as it slipped softly across the waters and away, back to the other side of the lake. Though it would return to Rosengarten's shores once more that very same day...

All around them, Rosengarten Castle stood majestic, ever looming overhead, its grand arches and soaring turrets casting long shadows that stretched like fingers over the rolling hills of green. Ivy clung to its walls, while stained-glass windows glinted in the fading light, reflecting the shifting colors of the sky.

Willing students were given a brief tour of the castle grounds, courtesy of their prefects, which included lush gardens filled with vibrant blooms and the gentle hum of bees; an expansive courtyard of grey stone; and a series of long, winding corridors.

As the students drank their fill of the scenery, they were eventually herded up the winding path to the castle entrance. The massive oak doors, wrought with iron, creaked open, revealing a grand old foyer. Vaulted ceilings loomed overhead, and the air was heavy with the scent of old stone and history. Though the interior of the castle appeared to have been updated to accommodate the modern amenities, the essence of its former grandeur remained.

As twilight descended, the students were shown to their new accommodations. The dormitories, as promised, were divided by year and gender, with the West Wings housing the boys and the East Wings, the girls. Each room was spacious and well-appointed, with high ceilings and wide windows that offered views of the surrounding forest and lake. The ancient stone walls were warmed by rich tapestries, and each bed was outfitted with plush, luxurious linens.

With curfew set in, the castle grew quiet, the hush of the night outside was broken only by the soft rustle of leaves and the distant hoot of an owl. But within the walls of Rosengarten, something stirred, awakened by the soft light of the nightly moon...

The students, now left to their own devices, were welcome to dally long in the Commons... So long as they were abed before long.

The Commons was nestled between the East and West towers. It boasted high, arched ceilings adorned with intricately carved wooden beams, and its old stone walls were softened by vibrant tapestries. Comfortable, plush seating areas were scattered throughout the space, inviting students to relax, unwind, or get to know their new peers.

A large, crackling fireplace dominated one wall, casting flickering shadows and bathing the room in a warm, golden glow. Alongside the fireplace, a collection of well-stocked bookshelves offered a vast array of reading material, from classic literature to the latest volumes of several academic texts. Tall, leaded glass windows framed picturesque views of the surrounding landscape, allowing cool the light of the star-filled sky to stream gently in.

In the Commons was, in many ways, the very heart of Rosengarten itself... And it was where the students now found themselves as outside the moon rose high, bathing the castle in a halo of light as the students settled in to the first night of their new lives.

 

[Elenion Aura]

The Twins

SCENE:

The First Night

LOCATION:

The Commons, Rosengarten Castle

PARTICIPANTS:

11th and 12th years

THE FIRST NIGHT

"'n then Calanthe said, 'Hrm, I ass-ure you, good sir, that my mush-uh-rooms, are of the very high-est qual-uh-ty'—heh,"​

Izumi snorted a laugh, breaking character briefly as the facade of Calanthe, the austere headmistress of Rosengarten Academy and secret mycology aficionado, melted from his face. He'd at the least managed to crack himself up, yet his impression was met with mostly-blank, slightly-confused stares from the handful of tenth years who'd been roped into listening to his tale. At the sight of their non-reaction, his mirth instantly vanished, his expression dropping to one of utter disinterest, tinged with disappointment that his joke had fallen flat on its face.

"''S funnier if y' know 'er."​

He muttered to no one in particular, already having dismissed the presence of the tenth-year students. As they scurried away, he scarcely noticed, his gaze having landed on a tousled mop of sandy blond hair a few meters away. With his lengthy stride, he sauntered clear over the sloped backside of a plush-looking sofa and approached the shorter individual, unceremoniously displacing a couple of students who had previously occupied the couch.

"'Yo! Yer, uh... Gup, right?"​

He asked Gip.

"Gup's kinda like 'guppy'. Y' like a fish, or somethin'?"​

He went on, his head tilted quizzically on its axis. The irony of the question had somehow gone right over his skyscraper-tall head.

Meanwhile Mizuto, observing from a spot along the far wall, leaning against a mantle overlooking the crackling edifice of a fireplace, merely shook his head.

Around them both, the Commons bustled with new students.

Fresh meat.

 

[ATurei]

Chiba, Shion

CS Link

SCENE:

The First Night

LOCATION:

The Commons, Rosengarten Castle

PARTICIPANTS:

11th and 12th years

THE FIRST NIGHT

What she had said then in answer to Dexy’s beckon she could not quite recall, only that the afternoon at her new home passed slowly, with little of the excitement expected in an estate so exotic. Come nighttime and the idle hours, she found herself robed and freshened after a prolonged bath, nary a trace of the half-hearted frolic and manic laps from earlier. New schoolmates awaited her in the Commons.

It was almost a half hour since her entrance into the room and colonization of the heart of the plump couches by the fire. Mingled in the cracking of fire, the hushed chatters, Shion sent her voice low so as to bring a long horrific tale to an end, “…and so, on the following day, she was brought to a mental asylum, where they fit her in such strait-jacket and padded walls. While the poor girl’s story they dismissed, for she could but relate it in intelligible mumbles and fragmented details: of strange visions, of thunder in a cloudless night, of men none had seen or heard in that village before or after. Never did she recover from that fright. Only—” Shion cast wildly opened eyes round the tapestried walls, the stone arches, and the windows to the gloomy night, and hushed her voice to a hoarse tone of fear and caution,“—Only some years later when they demolished that ancient tomb to build a highway between these southernmost provinces, the workers did find a casket within, empty and unused, whose silver plate still writ in faded ancient hand that poor girl’s full name.”

The tale ended, Shion sat back, drawing her legs on the chair and letting the ending sink in what eager ears had gathered round her little stage. Her little theatric display while did not fit her general image was nevertheless one honed in many a summer camp, the abundant practice of her personable skills to entertain club mates.

“Well, who else has something to tell? Doesn’t have to be something fictional you know, just whatever you want to share.”