Mystics Apprentice
Colorfully Ecstatic Time Mage
–Vita River–
Elrandir , Scrapmaster , Stardustblade358 , Endless Thundaza , Thanny , RikuXIII , Nero Kunivas , Xion136
(Characters: Nero, Henry, Arkane, Yael, Jynn, Daruk, Gerik, Laguna, Eleanor, Eclaire, Makoto - NPCs Mabel, Mia, Mellark, Micah, Vaan)
[Vaan, with Gerik and others]
Vaan smiled brightly at the talk of his reward, and he bowed lowly to Gerik. "It is a pleasure doing business with you, Maester Lockford," he said. "Might there be anything else that you wish for me to do before I return back to the Master's side? Anything that you need for Vita City, mayhaps? We have a stronghold there, so if you require anything it shouldn't be too difficult for me to acquire it for you. For the right price, of course."
Obediently Micah appeared by Gerik's side, understanding the code in which the maester spoke. He waited, notebook in hand, ready to make the proper arrangements with their treasurer back in the court who could further help Vaan acquire the appropriate payment, but he was not rude enough to interrupt. This exchange could perhaps lead to an important trade between Gerik and Vaan, and he knew better than to open his mouth when it wasn't appropriate to do so. He watched the flaming bird quizzically, but said nothing nor chose to question it when Gerik pocketed the note.
[In the tent, between Mabel and Nero]
The priestess' expression shifted from surprise, to horror, and, finally, shame. She hung her head as Nero explained her take on the situation between her and Jynn, lending both her opinion along with support. "Maestra Nero." It was more of a statement, one that she didn't know how to continue. She brought her gaze up to Nero's, locking eyes with her senior, expression holding both anguish and gratitude. Grateful for the Maestra's support, distraught over the choices that she were presented with. Finally Mabel shook her head. "My life has been a straightforward path until now. From the age of four years old I've known what was expected of me, and I have fulfilled it dutifully to the best of my ability. Now I have been presented with a fork in the road, one where I must make choices that I don't want to."
She bit her lip, a tear rolling down her cheek. "I know what I must do; it will just take me some time to do it. Maestra, if I might be bold enough to ask, have you . . . ever loved before?"
Already there was more to Professor Thea Nero Leviathan than Mabel had ever known, perhaps far more than even most of the Somnum mages knew. Never did she realize that Thea had been a freespirited individual, now bound to a duty that even she would rather shirk. Perhaps, more than anyone, she would understand the position that the young priestess was in. For the first time in days, Mabel found solace in that.
That solace was soon diminished when word spread of a party out to take her life. Threats on her life were nothing new, and yet this didn't seem to be very good timing, not after Jynn was already attacked and a sea serpent had tried to eat them for lunch. The prospect of splitting up frightened Mabel, and yet she couldn't help but agree with the logic behind the idea.
"I will defer to your judgment, Professor Nero," Mabel said. "If you feel that splitting our party would be the best course of action, I will support you."
Going through the professor's warddrobe greatly excited Mabel. A shift in clothing, from the stifling dutiful robes and gowns that she normally adorned herself in? She ran her hands over smooth silk, sequins, and another fabric of great sheer splendor that she couldn't quite put a name to. "If it is alright, I would like to try a few on," Mabel said to Nero. "Thank you greatly for this offer, Maestra."
After disappearing and trying several, she finally emerged from the confines of the tent in this (4th outfit that Elrandir posted):
[EVERYONE ALONG VITA RIVER]
She awkwardly gripped the top of the bodice, trying to tug up the fabric. "I think it might be a little big," she murmured shyly, allowing the fabric back into place. The top was held up by the shoulder adornment, the rest being allowed to hang gracefully below her shoulders. She turned to the rest of the party.
"Everyone, due to the current circumstances, Professor Nero and I feel that it is in our best interests to split the caravan," Mabel announced, tone authoritative. "We shall still meet within the Vivifica Forest, but some of us will traverse through Aeternalis, while others will slip through Vita City. I will travel with Professor Nero, Jynn, and Arkane to Vita City, while Lady Mia and another party will form and travel through Aeternalis. While I do not wish to endanger anyone, I feel that it would throw our assailant off even further if someone in our party were to dress in my priestess garb who travels with Lady Mia. Naturally, they will think it is me, and word will spread that I am located in Aeternalis."
It is time to choose your carriage, Daruk, Gerik, Henry, Makoto, Eclaire, Eleanor, Yael, and Laguna:
Carriage 1 - Vita City : Mabel, Jynn, Professor Nero, Arkane
Carriage 2 - Aeternalis : Lady Mia
–Vita City: TEAM ZION–
Xion136 , Nero Kunivas , HeartOfFerria
[Eden, Ronin, Isabelle, Remy]
The redhead arrived in the kitchen before any could answer his grandmother. He was red-faced and breathless, obviously working in a hurry to get their horses underway.
"Alright, we're all set," he told them. "Are you guys ready to go?"
"Hold it, where are you going in such a rush?" his grandmother interjected. "You only just arrived!"
He shot a cautious look toward his friends, before turning back toward her. "Sorry, Gram. I'll explain more in detail later, but right now this is a time-sensitive matter."
Ronin, Isabelle, and Eden, you can choose to pack supplies, decide to eat before you leave, chat with Remy's grandmother, or leave now without a moment wasted. The choice is yours. A set of four horses await for you alongside the farmhouse, saddled and ready to go. They are in good health and care, and with proper care they should be able to get you to your destination soundly.
–Sanctus Heights: Train Station–
Nero Kunivas , Scrapmaster , HeartOfFerria
[Gabriel, Arno, Saffron, Tibarn, Vaike]
Gabriel's words soothed Tibarn slightly; it made sense that the one being charmed wouldn't likely have the ability to even question whether they were under a trance or not. Soon Tibarn stood up and stretched, turning toward his fellow companions and saying, "I'm going to get up and take a walk around. I'll be back in a few." With that, the brunet left their car, leaving only the four to stare in his wake.
"The Tenebris Court wasn't always this way," Vaike responded, distractedly tearing his gaze from Tibarn and settling onto Gabriel. "For a time they were just like the current courts: desiring to rule with justice, and retain peace and prosperity throughout the land. It is remarkable what a taste of power and Itika can do to the human mind. Sometimes I wonder what even I would do with Itika. Would it drive me mad? Would I, too, lose my sense of justice and righteousness for power and cruelty? Would it do that to any of you? It's a terrifying prospect, and I never want to know."
The talk of Kiev and the bar piqued the Seer's interest. "Who is Kiev?" he asked nonchalantly, oblivious to the "adventure" that the bounty hunters had encountered earlier.
–Vivifica Forest–
HeartOfFerria
Quinn would find the forest peaceful, with no trace of an imminent threat or the encroaching arrival of the Sanctus Heights council. The birds chirp in the trees, the scent of wood and pine permeating the air. Quinn could choose to travel through to Vita City and catch a train, or move further north to Aeternalis, though no trains run through Aeternalis, and she would have to find some other means to the capital of Regalia.
–Vivifica Temple–
Nero Kunivas , Xion136 , Scrapmaster , RikuXIII
(Elliot, Zion, Richter, Valery, Tiru, Aislinn)
The court was in a flurry of panic. Ballistas were being rolled out into strategic points on the rooftop of the ancient temple, the wheels groaning under the stress of the weathered joints. They clearly hadn't been used in a very long time, if not ever. Another flock of mages were sharpening arrows with their knives, while another mage was stringing a bow.
With Valery's aid, those not participating in the battle were weeded out from those staying to defend their court, readying all of their horses and carriages to make way for Aeternalis. One of the children, a young girl no older than eight, tugged on Valery's clothing, before offering her a white tiger lily. "It is for good luck," the young girl told Valery. "Stay safe, Valery. Are you sure that you can't come with us?"
----
Meanwhile, neither Elliot or Richter would be interrupted in the gardens, where Elliot approached Richter to talk. While the chaos could be heard from all around them, the garden was seemingly a sacred place, free from the anxiety plaguing the walls. Zion would find that her sleep was undisturbed. The occasional running footfalls would resound outside of her bedroom, but otherwise none would disturb her.
–Sanctus Heights: Lt. Mastiff's Office–
Stardustblade358 , Elrandir , Scrapmaster , RikuXIII
[Vincent, Diane, Vlad, Mako, Elia]
Elia's gaze shifted between the envelope and Diane. Out of all the mages, Elia had taken a liking toward Diane most, and genuinely wanted to help her rather than just annoy the others. Especially Vincent. "I . . . I really don't know," Elia admitted. "Dad never brought me here to his office, and he hardly ever mentioned work to me or Ari. If you feel that going through the envelope will help, I am sure that he'll understand."
From Elia's perch she hadn't noticed the contents of the safe, nor had she been paying attention when the safe was open. She eyed Vincent curiously, tilting her head. "A brother? Me? I didn't have a brother," she said, tone clearly confused. "Why would you say that?"
Within the personal safe, Vincent would only find personal belongings. Jewelry, photographs, letters, a napkin to a favorite restaurant that was crumbled–and even stained–along with baby items belonging to this Liam. Elia listened to Vincent suggesting the number 25, but said in response: "But the combination is six digits. What could the others be?"
She watched Mako interestedly, curious to see what technique she intended to use on the safe, and if she would be successful.
–Sanctus Heights: Grand Cathedral Breakfast room–
RikuXIII , Elrandir , Stardustblade358 , Xion136
Kolm had been listening intently as Incarose explained how one worked their way into a court, though a sinking feeling of dread filled his chest when Arun walked over and explained that there was a test. "What kind of a test?" Kolm asked. He wondered if Arun would be allowed to share the court's secrets on what the test entailed, and whether each court had the same kind of test. Perhaps Ignis would enforce something different than Somnum, and perhaps they didn't always test all individuals. Perhaps each case was different. Did he have potential, enough to be recognized? He certainly wasn't born with any court affiliation, so he'd hoped that the would recognize him. Otherwise, he would have to continue living as he was: not allowing himself to feel anything. A miserable existence, but he would do what he had to.
He was grateful when Anya seemed genuine in wanting to help him out, even offering for him to tag along and try to get him into the court of Ignis. He gave a moment's pause. Which court would be best? He favored the mages of Ignis, but Somnum would be home to his element. He desperately needed to hone in his skills. Would Daruk or the other fire mages be able to tame him? He didn't know, and thus he decided to speak the truth. "I am very grateful for your assistance, Miss Anya," he said to her. "And it would be my pleasure to accompany you, at least until Professor Nero returns from her assignment. While I have a personal fondness for Ignis and all of its mages, my magic is wild, and perhaps only a mage specialized in the element can help me wield it. I think I won't know until I speak with Maester Daruk and Maestra Nero. Maybe they will know how to best place me. But in the meantime, I don't see what harm would befall me to hang out with you guys. Might as well make myself useful."
Arun was looking for mages to accompany him, and it seems that the others were considering it. Kolm shrugged. "It sounds interesting enough. I'll join you guys, if that's what you all decide to do." He lifted his gaze to meet Arun's. "Arun, isn't it? I remember seeing you yesterday with the others during the assault on the cathedral. If I recall, one of them called you Arun. Is that what you want me to call you, or is Mister Roshan more appropriate?"
Meanwhile, Kagura had retired to his room to rest after the day's events. If he so desired, he too could join the set of mages in their search.
Elrandir , Scrapmaster , Stardustblade358 , Endless Thundaza , Thanny , RikuXIII , Nero Kunivas , Xion136
(Characters: Nero, Henry, Arkane, Yael, Jynn, Daruk, Gerik, Laguna, Eleanor, Eclaire, Makoto - NPCs Mabel, Mia, Mellark, Micah, Vaan)
[Vaan, with Gerik and others]
Vaan smiled brightly at the talk of his reward, and he bowed lowly to Gerik. "It is a pleasure doing business with you, Maester Lockford," he said. "Might there be anything else that you wish for me to do before I return back to the Master's side? Anything that you need for Vita City, mayhaps? We have a stronghold there, so if you require anything it shouldn't be too difficult for me to acquire it for you. For the right price, of course."
Obediently Micah appeared by Gerik's side, understanding the code in which the maester spoke. He waited, notebook in hand, ready to make the proper arrangements with their treasurer back in the court who could further help Vaan acquire the appropriate payment, but he was not rude enough to interrupt. This exchange could perhaps lead to an important trade between Gerik and Vaan, and he knew better than to open his mouth when it wasn't appropriate to do so. He watched the flaming bird quizzically, but said nothing nor chose to question it when Gerik pocketed the note.
[In the tent, between Mabel and Nero]
The priestess' expression shifted from surprise, to horror, and, finally, shame. She hung her head as Nero explained her take on the situation between her and Jynn, lending both her opinion along with support. "Maestra Nero." It was more of a statement, one that she didn't know how to continue. She brought her gaze up to Nero's, locking eyes with her senior, expression holding both anguish and gratitude. Grateful for the Maestra's support, distraught over the choices that she were presented with. Finally Mabel shook her head. "My life has been a straightforward path until now. From the age of four years old I've known what was expected of me, and I have fulfilled it dutifully to the best of my ability. Now I have been presented with a fork in the road, one where I must make choices that I don't want to."
She bit her lip, a tear rolling down her cheek. "I know what I must do; it will just take me some time to do it. Maestra, if I might be bold enough to ask, have you . . . ever loved before?"
Already there was more to Professor Thea Nero Leviathan than Mabel had ever known, perhaps far more than even most of the Somnum mages knew. Never did she realize that Thea had been a freespirited individual, now bound to a duty that even she would rather shirk. Perhaps, more than anyone, she would understand the position that the young priestess was in. For the first time in days, Mabel found solace in that.
That solace was soon diminished when word spread of a party out to take her life. Threats on her life were nothing new, and yet this didn't seem to be very good timing, not after Jynn was already attacked and a sea serpent had tried to eat them for lunch. The prospect of splitting up frightened Mabel, and yet she couldn't help but agree with the logic behind the idea.
"I will defer to your judgment, Professor Nero," Mabel said. "If you feel that splitting our party would be the best course of action, I will support you."
Going through the professor's warddrobe greatly excited Mabel. A shift in clothing, from the stifling dutiful robes and gowns that she normally adorned herself in? She ran her hands over smooth silk, sequins, and another fabric of great sheer splendor that she couldn't quite put a name to. "If it is alright, I would like to try a few on," Mabel said to Nero. "Thank you greatly for this offer, Maestra."
After disappearing and trying several, she finally emerged from the confines of the tent in this (4th outfit that Elrandir posted):
She awkwardly gripped the top of the bodice, trying to tug up the fabric. "I think it might be a little big," she murmured shyly, allowing the fabric back into place. The top was held up by the shoulder adornment, the rest being allowed to hang gracefully below her shoulders. She turned to the rest of the party.
"Everyone, due to the current circumstances, Professor Nero and I feel that it is in our best interests to split the caravan," Mabel announced, tone authoritative. "We shall still meet within the Vivifica Forest, but some of us will traverse through Aeternalis, while others will slip through Vita City. I will travel with Professor Nero, Jynn, and Arkane to Vita City, while Lady Mia and another party will form and travel through Aeternalis. While I do not wish to endanger anyone, I feel that it would throw our assailant off even further if someone in our party were to dress in my priestess garb who travels with Lady Mia. Naturally, they will think it is me, and word will spread that I am located in Aeternalis."
It is time to choose your carriage, Daruk, Gerik, Henry, Makoto, Eclaire, Eleanor, Yael, and Laguna:
Carriage 1 - Vita City : Mabel, Jynn, Professor Nero, Arkane
Carriage 2 - Aeternalis : Lady Mia
–Vita City: TEAM ZION–
Xion136 , Nero Kunivas , HeartOfFerria
[Eden, Ronin, Isabelle, Remy]
The redhead arrived in the kitchen before any could answer his grandmother. He was red-faced and breathless, obviously working in a hurry to get their horses underway.
"Alright, we're all set," he told them. "Are you guys ready to go?"
"Hold it, where are you going in such a rush?" his grandmother interjected. "You only just arrived!"
He shot a cautious look toward his friends, before turning back toward her. "Sorry, Gram. I'll explain more in detail later, but right now this is a time-sensitive matter."
Ronin, Isabelle, and Eden, you can choose to pack supplies, decide to eat before you leave, chat with Remy's grandmother, or leave now without a moment wasted. The choice is yours. A set of four horses await for you alongside the farmhouse, saddled and ready to go. They are in good health and care, and with proper care they should be able to get you to your destination soundly.
–Sanctus Heights: Train Station–
Nero Kunivas , Scrapmaster , HeartOfFerria
[Gabriel, Arno, Saffron, Tibarn, Vaike]
Gabriel's words soothed Tibarn slightly; it made sense that the one being charmed wouldn't likely have the ability to even question whether they were under a trance or not. Soon Tibarn stood up and stretched, turning toward his fellow companions and saying, "I'm going to get up and take a walk around. I'll be back in a few." With that, the brunet left their car, leaving only the four to stare in his wake.
"The Tenebris Court wasn't always this way," Vaike responded, distractedly tearing his gaze from Tibarn and settling onto Gabriel. "For a time they were just like the current courts: desiring to rule with justice, and retain peace and prosperity throughout the land. It is remarkable what a taste of power and Itika can do to the human mind. Sometimes I wonder what even I would do with Itika. Would it drive me mad? Would I, too, lose my sense of justice and righteousness for power and cruelty? Would it do that to any of you? It's a terrifying prospect, and I never want to know."
The talk of Kiev and the bar piqued the Seer's interest. "Who is Kiev?" he asked nonchalantly, oblivious to the "adventure" that the bounty hunters had encountered earlier.
–Vivifica Forest–
HeartOfFerria
Quinn would find the forest peaceful, with no trace of an imminent threat or the encroaching arrival of the Sanctus Heights council. The birds chirp in the trees, the scent of wood and pine permeating the air. Quinn could choose to travel through to Vita City and catch a train, or move further north to Aeternalis, though no trains run through Aeternalis, and she would have to find some other means to the capital of Regalia.
–Vivifica Temple–
Nero Kunivas , Xion136 , Scrapmaster , RikuXIII
(Elliot, Zion, Richter, Valery, Tiru, Aislinn)
The court was in a flurry of panic. Ballistas were being rolled out into strategic points on the rooftop of the ancient temple, the wheels groaning under the stress of the weathered joints. They clearly hadn't been used in a very long time, if not ever. Another flock of mages were sharpening arrows with their knives, while another mage was stringing a bow.
With Valery's aid, those not participating in the battle were weeded out from those staying to defend their court, readying all of their horses and carriages to make way for Aeternalis. One of the children, a young girl no older than eight, tugged on Valery's clothing, before offering her a white tiger lily. "It is for good luck," the young girl told Valery. "Stay safe, Valery. Are you sure that you can't come with us?"
----
Meanwhile, neither Elliot or Richter would be interrupted in the gardens, where Elliot approached Richter to talk. While the chaos could be heard from all around them, the garden was seemingly a sacred place, free from the anxiety plaguing the walls. Zion would find that her sleep was undisturbed. The occasional running footfalls would resound outside of her bedroom, but otherwise none would disturb her.
–Sanctus Heights: Lt. Mastiff's Office–
Stardustblade358 , Elrandir , Scrapmaster , RikuXIII
[Vincent, Diane, Vlad, Mako, Elia]
Elia's gaze shifted between the envelope and Diane. Out of all the mages, Elia had taken a liking toward Diane most, and genuinely wanted to help her rather than just annoy the others. Especially Vincent. "I . . . I really don't know," Elia admitted. "Dad never brought me here to his office, and he hardly ever mentioned work to me or Ari. If you feel that going through the envelope will help, I am sure that he'll understand."
From Elia's perch she hadn't noticed the contents of the safe, nor had she been paying attention when the safe was open. She eyed Vincent curiously, tilting her head. "A brother? Me? I didn't have a brother," she said, tone clearly confused. "Why would you say that?"
Within the personal safe, Vincent would only find personal belongings. Jewelry, photographs, letters, a napkin to a favorite restaurant that was crumbled–and even stained–along with baby items belonging to this Liam. Elia listened to Vincent suggesting the number 25, but said in response: "But the combination is six digits. What could the others be?"
She watched Mako interestedly, curious to see what technique she intended to use on the safe, and if she would be successful.
–Sanctus Heights: Grand Cathedral Breakfast room–
RikuXIII , Elrandir , Stardustblade358 , Xion136
Kolm had been listening intently as Incarose explained how one worked their way into a court, though a sinking feeling of dread filled his chest when Arun walked over and explained that there was a test. "What kind of a test?" Kolm asked. He wondered if Arun would be allowed to share the court's secrets on what the test entailed, and whether each court had the same kind of test. Perhaps Ignis would enforce something different than Somnum, and perhaps they didn't always test all individuals. Perhaps each case was different. Did he have potential, enough to be recognized? He certainly wasn't born with any court affiliation, so he'd hoped that the would recognize him. Otherwise, he would have to continue living as he was: not allowing himself to feel anything. A miserable existence, but he would do what he had to.
He was grateful when Anya seemed genuine in wanting to help him out, even offering for him to tag along and try to get him into the court of Ignis. He gave a moment's pause. Which court would be best? He favored the mages of Ignis, but Somnum would be home to his element. He desperately needed to hone in his skills. Would Daruk or the other fire mages be able to tame him? He didn't know, and thus he decided to speak the truth. "I am very grateful for your assistance, Miss Anya," he said to her. "And it would be my pleasure to accompany you, at least until Professor Nero returns from her assignment. While I have a personal fondness for Ignis and all of its mages, my magic is wild, and perhaps only a mage specialized in the element can help me wield it. I think I won't know until I speak with Maester Daruk and Maestra Nero. Maybe they will know how to best place me. But in the meantime, I don't see what harm would befall me to hang out with you guys. Might as well make myself useful."
Arun was looking for mages to accompany him, and it seems that the others were considering it. Kolm shrugged. "It sounds interesting enough. I'll join you guys, if that's what you all decide to do." He lifted his gaze to meet Arun's. "Arun, isn't it? I remember seeing you yesterday with the others during the assault on the cathedral. If I recall, one of them called you Arun. Is that what you want me to call you, or is Mister Roshan more appropriate?"
Meanwhile, Kagura had retired to his room to rest after the day's events. If he so desired, he too could join the set of mages in their search.