Fantasy The Four Courts RP [closed]

Kagura Sumeragi - Somnum - with Nero

The Water Dancer made a few extremely happy sounds as Nero executed a Hair Ruffle. Looking positively happy, legs kicking a bit, Kaga snuggled a bit against Nero. One way to Kaga's heart was hair playing, and Nero had made the nervous mage extremely happy. "I had a good rest." Nodding, Kaga didn't notice the dog, but did nod and say hello to all newcomers to the table, polite but shy as always. The leg kicks were in beat, though, and some water was dancing around Kaga, light and flitting, like watery fireflies. Kaga did glance at Arun again, not sure who this was.

Elrandir Stardustblade358


Zion - Vivifica - Tower

She shifted and looked over. "Oi. Remmy. Wake up, need to know if you feel better." She said, annoyed. She wanted to go to the damn meeting she was sent here for.

Mystics Apprentice

Eclaire de Wynter - Umbra - Eleanor's Door

The catgirl shifted. Gulping, she rapped on Elle's door. "E-Elle? Hey uhm...you there...? I...can I come in?" Her heart was pounding. After bonding and seeing Elle go berserk...well...
She decided to get her something. And so she waited.

Nero Kunivas


Makoto Suzaku - Ignis - INCOMING

The sound of concentrated explosions was heard. A bit above the walls rocketed a girl, skirt flapping in the wind, panties protected by the power of spats. She glowed briefly as she lost altitude, and landed and rolled on a rooftop. Sprinting, she began to leap and parkour her way across Sanctus Heights, somersaulting down to a lower roof and continuing. She knew exactly where Ignis would be staying, and as she sprinted up the side of a wall diagonally, she kicked off and over a short warehouse, landing in the residental district. She continued her sprint, grinning.

In the Ignis abode, Henry Heid would feel IT.

Scrapmaster

Isabelle- Umbra- Daydreams.
Isabelle stared at the old man for some time. “One who council’s the priestess...” she muttered to herself, almost autonomously. Her mind going elsewhere. To a memory of her Father. Such memories made her shudder as they pulled up more memories. But before Isabelle knew it she began to doze off, not from lack of sleep just from being too deep in thought.

———

A loud crack hit the table she was at and Isabelle sat up in attention. The young pale haired girl looked up at the person who struck the table. It was her father. Wrinkled with age his pale hair slicked back. His eyes glazed over but still faintly pink. His uniform, Militaristic in nature, was perfect down to the button. “You are to pay attention to the council, take notes, and not speak, do you understand Daughter?”

“Y-Yes Father.” She replied nervously. Her fingers gripping a quill tightly.

He then turned and moved towards his seat, stopping momentarily. “I will test you on our way back to Umbra... you know the cost of failure.” He told her without turning his head

Isabelle stared at him for a moment before the scenery changed. She was in a carriage, her father shaking his head with disappointment. “You have failed me again Daughter... your mother will choose what to do with you when we get back home... without any doubt she will push for your studies. Ive heard she plans to improve your magic studies. Be prepared for the worst.”

“Y-Yes Father...” she looks down at her lap. A small picture she drew was in her lap rather than notes.

The scene changes again. As Isabelle is thrown into a cold room, misting from ice magic. One of her cheeks distinctly red. Within the room was a bed, a book shelf full of books, a desk with several ink vials and a quill, and hanging from two butcher hooks were two dead bodies. Behind her the door was shut and three locks could be heard clicking together. A small slot opened on the door. A pair of piercing blue eyes looks through the slot at the young isabelle

“You will be here to you learn to do it right. Im tired of your failures. One after another. Enough with the kindness. You will learn the right way.”

“Mother please! Dont lock me in here! Please!” The slot closes with a loud clack. “MOTHER!” She cries out holding onto the door.

- Henry Heid - Grand Cathedral - Cafeteria -

Grabbing his food, a mixture of meat and veggies for good health, some chicken and some juice as well. Henry paid little atention to what was going on exactly with the others in the cafeteria, not much was going on after all, and that was nice. Henry was subsequently distracted as Arkane and him bumped into each other, thankfuly no juice or food got thrown out of the plates because he too held it rather tightly.

"Sorry?" Henry replied to Arkane's first comment, he would have said more but he noticed Arkane looking at him and blinking a few times, leaving Henry very awkward. "Um, hi?" Henry spoke to him. As he took a few glances at his clothes and appearance, clothing somewhat fitting of an umbra mage, but usualy mages were free to wear whatever they wanted, his aura was just as weird as one though. But Henry's aura reading wasn't exactly top notch.

"Can I help you?" He asked Arkane, trying to snap him out of his trance. As a shiver would run down his spine, he wouldn't show it, But something was coming...or rather someone, and this worried him. But He'd keep a straight face as he awaited for Arkane's reply.

Stardustblade358 Xion136



- Vlad - The Shadow Man - Last night - Somnus Ships -

Vlad had woken up, stretching himself from the bed he found, as he would walk out of the room, more like a small storage room, for a ship of sorts. He had helped kill one or two baleaenas during the attack, but he figured that the others had it covered and promptly went to sleep again.

"Hey where're the others?" Vlad asked a crew member, who looked surprised at still seing a mage. "Uh, they left. We're at a port now." The sailor explained to him.

"Oh?" Vlad replied as he walked out of the ship he was in and indeed found himself in a port dock. "Well, shit." He said.

And that was what Vlad was doing the night before.


////

Jari and Mako's reunion was all well and good, but they would probably notice a nice little patch of black shadows appearing on the wall of Jari's room. Much to the boy's dismay and scare.

"Top of the mornin!" Vlad excitedly announced himself as only his head and his upper torso emerged from the shadows on the wall as he looked at Jari, then at Mako. "Hey Mako, sup Jari." Vlad greeted them.

"Gotta say It wasn't that hard to get to Sanctus than I thought, some bribery here, some charming there." Vlad mused over what he had to do to get to Sanctus. "So how about a drink? on me!" Vlad excitedly announced, while hanging sideways from the shadow portal he had created.


Thanny RikuXIII

- Arkane - Umbra Court - Sanctus Heights: Grand Cathedral -
Arkane would snap out of it, shaking his head before he would return to his usual scowl. He would glare a bit. "I am fine. You simply need to watch where you are going, is all." He scoffed, taking another bit of his breakfast. He would eye the man, only to swallow his food and point the fork at him. "You are part of the court of Ignis, correct?" He asked, glaring a bit. "Mind answering me a few questions, beginning with what the hell happened that it took you all so long to take down a machine?" He asked, trying to make conversation, although he was usually terribly at it. Hector would wag his curled up tail, walking towards Henry and pawing at his legs. He would whimper and smile, begging for food. Arkane would look down to Hector, frowning. "Hector you cannot digest food. I can already see the chocolate pancake about to fall from your stomach." He reminded the dog. He would glance back up at Henry, his expression softening. "I am curious, in all honesty. I heard that all of you were there when it began to attack. Was there nothing odd about it before it went awry?" He asked, furrowing his brows. The dog did not stop bothering Henry, however. Instead the dog would roll over onto its stomach to possibly receive pets from him. Arkane took another bite out of his food, deciding to keep the conversation going while he filled his stomach.

Scrapmaster

{Anya Alighieri - Ignis Court: Sanctus Heights; Cathedral Cafeteria}
"Thank you." Anya said, accepting Nero's invitation to breakfast. "And you don't have to call me lady, Incarose. Anya is easier and faster."
Taking a seat and waving Arun to another, The Phoenix Bearer gave the Little Phoenix her full attention.
"How long have you been having flair ups?" Anya asked. "And were your flames in control before?"
She gave Incarose a reassuring smile.
"Don't worry, I know what I'm talking about."
Extending her hand, Anya summoned a flame. As it twisted, it flickered between a regular flame and the form of a flaming feather.
"I've been touched by the Phoenix too."

{Gerik Lockford - Umbra Court: Sanctus Heights; Central Square}
Gerik gave Vincent a friendly nod.
"Certainly." he replied. "Another set of eyes might prove useful."
As he investigated the automaton, he found the blood seal. So, soul magic. Interesting. That potentially narrowed suspects down. He considered wiping it away to keep the knowledge to himself, but Vincent's presence complicated matters. Oh well. The arrival of Mastiff sealed the deal. He tipped his hat to the guard, then stepped back to look at the downed mechanical beast.
"I have many ideas, Lieutenant." He answered, somewhat lost in thought. "But not nearly enough facts to back them up."
Vincent began talking, giving Gerik more of a cover to compose his thoughts. He was still aware enough to put on a surprised face when the Ignis mage pointed out the mark. He was about about to make a pithy remark when Diane whispered in his ear.
"Well spotted." He whispered back.
It was good to have corroboration and he trusted the Lich's knowledge and intuition.
"Tell me, Lieutenant, what do you know of runes?"

{Mako Koyl - Somnum Court: Sanctus Heights; Rooms}
Mako felt a little better about Jari being okay.
"Great, genius. Now what?" she thought.
She wasn't really sure how to take this from here. She wasn't really sure she was ready to admit out loud that her reason was to see if he was alright. Oh, wait wasn't there a meeting or something?
"The big meeting we came here for is happening in about an hour." Mako said, relieved to have found an excuse.
The sudden arrival of Vlad made Mako jump. The mage had an odd effect on the young teleporter. He both put her on edge and made her feel relaxed. Yes, it was an oxymoron. But that's how it was.
"Oh, hi, Vlad." She greeted, feeling a little self-conscious. "I could use a drink."

{Valery - Vivifica Court: Miko Village}
Valery's gaze fell on Tiru, her eyes narrowing. This was not the time for a divided front. Not with them already cutting ties with the other courts. Though she viewed Tiru as faint of heart, he was still needed.
<I am with you, Maestra.> She signed to Aislinn.
She paused a moment before continuing.
<But this secrecy breeds doubt and suspicion in a time we need unity. You have my blade, regardless, but i urge you to reveal more.>
"What she said." her parrot squawked, looking up from a piece of fruit it had been eating.

- Vincent - Ignis Court - Sanctus Heights: Grand Cathedral -
Vincent would look down at the marking. He would press his hand against it, feeling the surface against the metal. "It is scratched on the surface. Messily, too, and in a hurry." He would say, looking up at Gerik. "At least we know that this was not part of the original creation nor installation." He turned his attention back to the marking. He would rip out a piece of paper from his journal, pressing it against the marking with his fingers on either end. He picked up his charcoal and would begin to rub it all across the page, allowing the scratches to show up on the negative of the page as a more accurate way to get the marking. Another method would be to make a mold of it, but he did not have that kind of materials on him at the moment. He got the paper back into the journal for safe keeping, glancing back at Gerik as he asked the one in charge about to runes. "You have an idea of what it could be already?" He asked, pushing himself onto his feet as he approached the Maester, unaware of the third presence among them. "If it is magic related at least it narrows down the fact that it was a mage's work...but that does not exactly help the search, now does it?" He sighed, rubbing the back of his head.

Elrandir RikuXIII

- Henry Heid - Sanctus Heights Grand Cathedral -

"Well taking down a giant, mechanical machine that can spit fire, while in the middle of an urban area with civilians everywhere is harder than it looks." Henry dryly commented on Arkane's remark, a slight frown in his expression which subsided pretty quickly, he didn't really mind, they could have done better, that was for sure.

Henry's attention would be taken by the undead dog, Hector. A rather grotesque sight for the common man, but this was hardly the weirdest thing he's ever seen. He smiled as he gave the dog what it wanted, petting it for a bit, before eventualy returning to eating his food, and hearing Arkane's next question.

"Well I don't have all the details, but from the angle I was standing when it came to life, it seemed to have some markings on it's exterior, now my guess is magic runes, but Im not sure. The dragon was merely an automaton, not capable of self thought, or even movement for that matter." Henry gave his view of the whole dragon situation.

"For all intents and purposes it acted like a normal automaton usualy did when we arrived..." Henry finished before stopping to think about things a bit. "Whoever gave it those markings need to answer for the thousands of civilian lives that were taken in the incident." Henry commented, now letting his voice and tone get quite a bit of passion in them. "We will make them pay for this." Henry spoke, with conviction and seriousness.


Stardustblade358

- Arkane - Umbra Court - Sanctus Heights: Grand Cathedral -
Arkane looked at Hector, who happily nommed on the food and then returned to Arkane's side. "I hope you realize that the food will fall out of your stomach soon." He mused. He would eat up and settle his plate aside to pick his dog in his arms, petting him as Hector called down for the moment, leaning into it's master's touch. Arkane listened to Henry as he gave his accounts to what happened. So if would seem that everything was normal, nothing out of the ordinary before it went loose upon their arrival. Whether that is what triggered it or not was yet to be seen, however. He could not help but to chuckle when he spoke that whoever did this would pay the consequences, for the lives that were taken though the event. "You surely speak highly and noble of a possibility without even knowing the whole story. Do you not fear that the people will be hesitant of aid from magic once they find out that it was magic itself that brought down the city?" He asked, looking down at Hector. He would rub under his chin, the dog closing it's eyes contently. "After all, are magic wielders not monsters until they ally themselves under a banner? A mob mentality of acceptance that decides what is good and bad. Unless you serve a purpose or use to any gain, no one desires you." For a moment the mother of the child that approached him came to mind again. Should things have been much different, how much would he bet that the mother would whisk her child away from him the moment he stopped into sight? The desire of one's existence depends on how beneficial one can be, after all. All part of selfish desires. He sighed, looking up at Henry. "Regardless I would watch my back if I were you. The whole thing is still under investigation but your court being related to fire on an event that burned the city down certainly will not fair you, nor your fellow mages, well. If anything I would think you have just given Vivifica a break on their own given accusations." He teased, playing with Hector's curved tail in between his fingers.

Scrapmaster

Makoto Suzaku - Ignis - IN.COM.ING.

Jump, somersault, wall run, spin. Parkour, slid under, kick off - win! Makoto was at the spot, but a crowd blocked her way. Rolling her shoulders and glowing once more, she did a single step, channeling her Chakra once more. She kicked off and twisted, and ran atop the roof, leaving those below to either look annoyed at her impatience or shake their fists at her abilities. She blew a few kisses, teasing, before she reached the food area. She dropped and grabbed the top of the door, swinging in, keeping her body tight and close to not bash heads, before letting go and using low-powered explosions to send her flying, laser-guided.

"HENRRRRRRY!"

Makoto Suzaku flipped, spun, and landed in a roll before once more taking to the air to land right on Henry's lap. "You're here!" She cried out, giving him a back-cracking hug. "How's my bestie?" She asked with a bright smile, legs kicking, a string of annoyed people, but no destruction, in her wake. "And who's your new friend?" She asked, looking at Arkane. "I'm Makoto! Henry's best friend!"

Scrapmaster Stardustblade358

- Eleanor Le Doux, Fierce Shadow, Umbra - Eleanor's Room For the Time -

After the ambush upon the bridge and Eleanor's loss of control, she had barred herself in her room for the time being after arriving at the Cathedral, as to meditate on what had just happened. But every time she tried to concentrate, a dark presence would disrupt her, only causing her frustration to mount and a dark aura to fester around her body. She had felt this before, when she meditated prior to the departure for the Cathedral and the subsequent meeting that would follow, it shook her out of her meditation then and did so now, but more aggressively. Eleanor feared this is what she had read about in her spare time, she feared that the symptoms were matching up, she feared it could only be--

A knock on the door snapped her out of her stupor and the sound of Eclaire's voice calmed her enough to dispel the latent dark aura around her. Standing up and dusting off her legs and bottom of dust, she straightened herself up and cleared her throat. "You can come in, Eclaire!" She spoke with a clear voice, though she did exhale with some relief that she was able to do so, as her emotions were roaring and swirling in her heart, both from Eclaire and her worries about what her affliction truly is.


- Soren Monroe, Fractured Bulwark, Ignis - Grand Cathedral -

For a time, while the crisis that had taken place in Sanctus began to wind down, Soren sat quietly at the large banquet table, wondering to himself just what kind of person would bring life to a mechanical dragon only to have it attack a city full of innocent people. The very idea angered him, but he wouldn't truly know until the Maester came back and told the rest of Ignis what he and others had found by staying behind. While he pondered, Soren took a few sips of a drink he had, feeling fortunate that his respirator allowed him to drink and eat with more ease than he expected, via its induction port. After the Bulwark had decided he'd had enough pondering over such a terrible event, he rose from his seat and began to move along, only to be accosted by an Umbra mage, who clumsily spilled hot cocoa down his back, apologizing profusely, all while attempting to lessen Soren's pain.

After a colder drink had been tossed at Soren, who at first did not react, when it seemed just for a moment the behemoth of a man was going to let Everyth have it...began laughing, just a small chuckle, but laugh he did, waving his hand in an assuring manner. "It's no worry, it doesn't burn as bad as you fear. But my robes are now ruined." Soren added, with a clearly jesting tone, but it was true, Everyth had ruined his robes and they would need washing.

Taking a deep, respirator-assisted breath, Soren straightened himself, vainly brushing off the moisture from his cloak and armour, dramatically shrugging. "If I'd had this much liquid say, 10 years ago? I'd be more grateful." Soren jested darkly, though Everyth might not catch on at first, unless she noticed his skin tone, though Soren did catch hers: Fair and unburnt, as most people were, though he'd be lying if he said she wasn't attractive for an Umbra mage. Most he met had...dabbled, a little too much in Necromancy, or Darkness. Then again, he wasn't one to talk regarding the latter. Soren then dried his gloved hand and proffered a shake of it, clearing his throat all the while.

"Soren Monroe, of Ignis. And aside from the Spiller of Drinks, you are?" Soren introduced himself with a small chuckle.


- Elliot Luxmore, Merciless Protector, Vivifica - Miko Village -

Elliot was tempted to shake his head as he listened to their Maestra. He didn't, of course, but he couldn't believe what he was hearing. Here, Elliot was hoping that some sense had been knocked into their secretive, suspicious Maestra, who couldn't even withstand a simple imbalance of the humors and attacked a fellow Vivifica under the influence, before having to be unceremoniously knocked out to save the life of another and herself. Alas, he was mistaken. She was still omitting details and now she was emotionally manipulating her fellow Vivifica into continuing to follow her, Richter of all of them would be most susceptible, as well as those who openly spoke out against Elliot for striking Aislinn.

Really though, he could handle her other words, but when she questioned the others, himself included, if they would abandon Aislinn as she widened her eyes like a saddened puppy, that was the last straw and Elliot sharply rose from his seat and keen-eyed Vivifica would notice Elliot's chest crystal was glowing more brilliantly than usual.

"Enough! For the love of the Gods, Maestra, listen to yourself, listen to the words you speak and look in the mirror! The widened-eyes, the simpering tone, you're...you're manipulating us. Rather than tell us the truth, you prefer to tug at our heartstrings? This cannot stand!" Elliot spat his words angrily at the Maestra, gesturing toward the Valley of Magic in the distance. "Surely, we have enough Itika, no? Surely we, have put ourselves in enough danger, yourself especially, to break the law and to do so by your word alone, which so far, hasn't proven to be worth very much, as you won't even tell us why we are doing this! Because of how secretive and reckless you're seemingly being, Vallery almost died, to you! Maestra, please, for your own safety and ours, you must be truthful with us: Tell us what this is all for! And for the record, where in the Seven Hells are Jynn and Zion!?"

Elliot spoke passionately, a rare sight for Vivifica, as was his crystal, grates and chainmail glowing and flowing as much as they were right now. The glowing dimmed however, as he awaited an answer, but it was clear his emotions were running wild, even his hands were shaking as they clenched into fists to greatly reduce their tremors, suggesting something was wrong, but Elliot was hiding it.


- Ronin, One of Many Names, Unaffiliated - Sanctus Heights: Tower -

"Some days are more of a pain in the ass than others. Isn't that the truth?"

Ronin had silently climbed the tower to sit next to Zion, one leg raised as to rest his arm upon his knee, while the other dangled over the edge, with Ronin at first staring down at the city, but would look at Zion after he spoke in an inquisitive manner. "I'm surprised you healed the Thief. But then, you are your own woman, and I respect you enough not to question that you healed him, but I will ask, what do you want from him, if anything?"

Ronin then paid an aside glance to the skies, noting the weather being...okay, could be better really, then back to Zion, noting that she was a far better sight in all honesty. "Well, what matters to me is that you're free...and even then, this presents its own set of problems. But I could not bear to see mages of your kind wrongfully imprisoned...such Anti-Vivifica sentiment is brewing in recent months and until I see some evidence that you are what they say you are, I only seek to help you for the time being."

"And...what I really would like to know is: Are you okay?" Ronin concluded, though he expected a, less than calm answer, so he braced himself.

Jynn Venas, Vivifica - Sanctus Heights Grand Hall


It seems that all the servants were occupied. Jynn takes this opportunity to sneak past and head straight up the stairs and in the balcony above the room. The room was massive, almost like a large courtroom. There was on seat that was more elegant than most, presumably the High Priestess’ seat. “This room is a lot bigger than I imagined..........” He looks back to the door he came through, and notices that there is a window overlooking the staircase he came through and the balcony. It had a lead he big enough for Yael to sit. Jynn looks to his pocket. “Yael, can you make sure I’m not being shadowed?”

- Yael, The Trickster - Independent - Sanctus Heights: Grand Hall - w/ Jynn -
Yael would have eaten the entire loot worth of carrots, feeling stuffed as he would happily ride along the apron pocket. They would soon reach at the balcony, where Yael would take the chance to crawl out of the apron and jump onto the railing, looking down. "They always show off when it comes to the court mages, do they not?" He chuckled, enjoying the view. He would look up at Jynn, seeing the window by the staircase. "Sure thing. I can get a sunbath while I am at it!" Yael would jump off the railing, smoke surging as he transformed into a fox before he landed on the floor. Similar color scheme with black fur and purple ends along with purple eyes and the inside of his ears, a big fluffy tail. He walked up to the window and jumped onto the space, giving a few twirls before taking a seat and laying down. "Do not worry, Jynn. No one will get past me." He yawned, paws up as he lay on his back. "Wake me up when the meeting starts!"

Endless Thundaza

- Jari Coriander, Somnum Court, with Mako and the spooky shadow drinking buddy -

Jari blinked at first, flashes of talks about them going to the meeting popping back in mind, but all that changed when nightmarish shadows blossomed on the wall in an unearthly manner, and then a . . . oh golly, is that a . . . HALF OF A MAN?!

Jari's terror-ridden scream could probably be heard all the way to the nearby hospital where Aquilla was, thanks to that open window and the very effective scare. He covered his mouth, felt the flush of blood rushing to his cheeks, and glared at the shadowmancer. There Vlad goes again, embarrassing him, this time in front of Mako. Thank goodness Jari did not feel the urge to use the lavatories, elsewise he would have had a new sort of embarrassment.

"Vlad! Would you stop that?! You know how I feel about scary stuff, especially shadows!" His chest stopped puffing soon after, a more conscious thought invading his brain. "However . . . a drink does sound good. You're buying? I'll change behind that . . . thing over there," he continued, gathering up his fresh clothes from the foot of the bed (Jari had some eclectic habits) and pointing over to the privacy screen on the far end of the room from the others. "No peeking. But . . . what about the meeting?"

He rose and slowly made his way towards the privacy screen, wondering what the others were going to say, and hoping that they did not catch the fact that he was wearing Tesla-coil-themed pajama bottoms.

((Nothing for Daruk or Pali for now. I wanted to fit in something for my little fox boy.))

- Thea Nero, Incarose Vassar - Sanctus Heights - The Grand Cathedral - Dining Saloon -

Nero had a motherly smile while looking at Kagura being happy, Sometimes the simple things were the ones that people enjoyed the most. She gave Daruk a nod as she watched his delighted face while eating the food provided by the Cathedral.

"That is good to know Kagura. It is always important that your body is well rested if you want to be ready to start your day," Nero answered Kagura before looking at Arun, "I feel there is no need for thanks, but, nevertheless, it was no problem. That was a surprise that, I think, no one was ready for. Sadly, even our best efforts were not enough to save everyone. Nor should we delude ourselves into thinking that would have been possible."

The Professor looked at her empty cup for a moment, wondering what would have happened if they had been in the city before the automaton began its path of destruction. How many lives would have been saved then? There was no point in trying to think about that now.

"But we should be happy for those who we did managed to save, I think," she said calmly as she looked at Arun, "each life is precious, and as such, those lives must be protected."


Incarose's nervousness kept slowly raising, the reason being that, apparently, she had caught the attention of another mage, the first one being the Maestra of Somnum.

"A-Alright, Anya it is then," Incarose replied.

The redhead kept taking quick glances at Anya, wondering what about her she was finding interesting enough to get her full attention. Her sudden questions made her hold her breath. How did she. . .? How? She understood how the Maestra was able to know, but this stranger? Incarose took a deep breath to calm herself, there was no use in hiding it, not when she was surrounded by mages, three of them from Ignis

"I don't. . .I don't really remember. Around ten years, maybe? I remember things used to catch fire when I was young. Small things, nothing important," Incarose said while looking at her plate, "as for your other question. . .no, they were not. They never have been."

Incarose watched as Anya summoned a flame, this surprised and scared her at the same time, but she had control of that fire, it even was flickering between a normal flame and a flaming feather, it was amazing. The more she stared at the flame, scary memories threatened to surface. and so, Incarose shut her eyes tightly for a few seconds to calm herself. The moment Anya mentioned being touched by the Phoenix, Incarose opened her eyes.

"Y-You have seen it too?" she asked, a hint of confusion and fear in her voice, "How do you keep it at bay? How do you manage to stay so calm?

The young girl looked at her own shaking hands, remembering memories from the past, of fire and heat and ashes, just like last night.

"The more I try to control it, the more powerful the backlashes are. No matter what, no matter where or when, if I try to keep this power under control it always finds a way to come out," Incarose said quietly, "it's like a beast trying to escape its cage. And when it does, bad things happen to those around me."

Perhaps the Maestra didn't noticed, but Incarose looked at her for a split second before focusing on Anya.

"People said this power was a gift. . ." she said, sadness in her voice, "but to me? this power has been nothing but a curse."

{Anya Alighieri - Ignis Court: Sanctus Heights; Cathedral Cafeteria}
Anya listened to Incarose’s tail, studying the girl. This wasn’t quite like her early years after the Phoenix Flames had manifested in her. But then again, her family had it in their blood. Had generations of forebears to see it could be controlled. All alone, frightened, and without really knowing what was going on, Anya could hardly blame the girl for how she felt.
“I have help.” Anya admitted, closing her hand to dismiss the flame.
She tapped her face markings with a finger.
“About 20 years ago, had raw Itika tattooed into my skin. Got more under the armor. It was by no means a comfortable experience, but it gave me an edge in figuring this out and still helps me direct the Flames. Others like us have used totems like staves, rings, and what not to channel the power, giving it a more controlled outlet. As for the rest...”
The Phoenix Bearer shrugged.
“This is going to sound like mumbo jumbo, but it’s about first controlling your feelings. The Phoenix inside is something strange and alien, but it is also you. It knows you’re afraid. So, you have to make those emotions work for you, not it. You can’t shut the fear or other emotions out. You have to embrace them and, in some ways, make peace with them.”
Anya glanced at Nero for a moment. The Maestra was capable. She might not be a Phoenix Caster herself, but she was smart, wise, and a water mage. A good combo to help a young Phoenix. But...
“Look, I now this is a lot to take in.” She continued. “Ten years is a long time to deal with this on your own. But you aren’t alone any more. I can help you gain the control you want, then, we can explore the other side of the Flames. The healing and rebirth.”

~*~Sanctus Heights~*~

Grand Cathedral: Great Hall
HeartOfFerria , Endless Thundaza , Stardustblade358

"Isabelle?"

A hand rested upon the Umbra mage's shoulder as she seemed very much lost in thought. If she turned she would find Shiroo Chickori standing alongside her, a look of deep concern upon his face. His flaming red hair was tied back in its usual ponytail, bangs threatening to fall and brush into his emerald eyes.

"Are you okay?" he asked her, gently coaxing her toward one of the benches behind them. "You seemed as though you were in another world for a brief moment there."

While Isabelle was of Umbra and Shiroo was of Ignis, he had met Isabelle once during another council during a winter solstice. He recalled how cold he was, and how interesting Isabelle was. Granted they shared but a few words and perhaps nothing in common besides their gifts of mana, but he still was concerned for a fellow mage regardless of affiliation.

From the balcony above, Jynn and Yael would be able to witness everything within the Great Hall, including the sleeping man in one of the four ornate chairs (not including the throne-style chair in the center of them, where the High Priestess would presumably sit) as well as Isabelle and Shiroo.

Grand Cathedral: Dining Saloon
Elrandir , RikuXIII , Scrapmaster , Stardustblade358 , Thanny , Xion136 , Nero Kunivas , Endless Thundaza

The blue-haired Somnum mage, Mellark, said nothing more as Arun joined them at their table, though did shoot a glance toward his choice of breakfast. His attention was redirected when the Somnum maestra addressed him, to which he bowed his head graciously and responded with: "Thank you, Professor Nero. While I would indeed prefer to be in bed slumbering at this ungodly hour, I find that I am rather famished after last night's events, and I wished to get some food and caffeine in my system in hopes of being conscious for the council within the hour."

He murmured halfhearted hellos around the table as he was introduced by the maestra, though seemed particularly disinterested in all of them. Mellark did like to keep to himself, though he also secretly felt that Somnum mages outclassed any of their mage kin. His attention was brought back to the present, however, as the Ignis Maester sat alongside him, to which he did offer a fraction of respect toward.

"Maester Daruk," he said smoothly, bowing his head. "It is a pleasure. I do hope that your journey here went well?"

Meanwhile, in the center of the dining hall, Everyth's cheeks flushed at Soren's words, both mortified of her accident, and glad that he had a sense of humor about it. Had this been one of her fellow Umbra mages that she'd collided into, she did not think this situation would have boded quite so well.

"Well, I am glad that you are not hurt," she responded, considering his careful choice of words though not understand what he had meant by "ten years ago". Until it suddenly struck her: the magitek respirator, the skin, the story . . . . He must have been the mage, the one that was glorified and discussed for facing off against a traitor, and surviving a torrent of flames that no human soul should have been able. This caused her to freeze momentarily, not quite sure how to respond before finally snapping to her senses.

"The robes are unfortunate," Everyth agreed. "To which I am very sorry for. While I do not think it would be possible to wear that same suit again, I'm sure that other accommodations could be made for you by the staff. The servants have been immensely useful. Should you wish it, I'd be happy to fetch someone for you."

As the Ignis hero both introduced himself and insulted her, Everyth couldn't help but laugh, tucking a lock of hair behind her ear and extending a hand to shake his. "Perhaps we can doff the title of 'Spiller of Drinks' and go with Everyth. Everyth Castanova, of the court of Umbra." Normally she would be haughty around an Ignis mage, especially with the long-lived rivalry between their two courts, though something about Soren exuded warmth–and it was not just the fact that he was a fire mage.

The clock on the wall chimed; it was a quarter till the turn of the hour, fifteen minutes prior to the start of the council. The mages in the cafeteria would find that several mages retreated from the saloon to move toward the Great Hall, where the council would take place.

Infirmary
HeartOfFerria

Aquilla's room was well-kept, light infiltrating from the window and casting a cheery glow about the room, despite the Ignis mage's grievous wounds. After a bit of time from Daruk's departure, a knock could be heard from her door.

"Hello, Miss Anistar?" a female voice inquired, slowly peeking around the door to find the Ignis mage tucked in bed. "I have a your breakfast here, along with a serving of . . . cheesecake, I think it is?"

The Clock Tower
Xion136 , Nero Kunivas

The conversation occurring between Ronin and Zion seemed to rouse the thief from his comatose state. He slowly opened his eyes, eyes adjusting to the light that filled the top of the tower where they rested. The first sight he witnessed was Zion, alongside him, long golden locks reflecting the sunlight and making her appear even more breathtaking to him. She truly did appear as a guardian angel.

"Where are we?" Remy struggled to sit, a dull pain in his side causing him to grimace but felt otherwise okay. Surprisingly so. His tunic was stiff from dried blood and sliced from Ronin's blade. He reached over to feel his flesh, and was taken aback to find that the wound was gone. His hazel eyes flickered up to Zion. "You healed me?" he asked, stunned. "I am very grateful, don't get me wrong, but . . . why? After everything I've done to you and that guy, all the lies I've said . . . you don't think I deserve to die?"

It took Remy a moment to realize Ronin was still present, to whose presence he jumped at initially, but then relaxed. Apparently the Shade was aware that Zion had spared his life, and as such he must have known that he would awaken. Zion wouldn't allow the man to do him any further harm, or at least he hoped not.

For the first time in a while Remy felt stupid. How he'd managed to wind himself in all of this trouble, he had no idea. He shifted so that he was kneeling before Zion, head bowed. "Archmagus of Vivifica, I owe you my life, and for that reason I also owe you a favor. Whatever the task, whatever it is . . . . I will do it for you."

And also, because he was infatuated with her, but that was besides the point.

Central Square
Elrandir , RikuXIII , Stardustblade358

"Magic." It was a statement, not a question, as the lieutenant shook his head. "A fearsome force. It is a good thing that this occurred when all of you mages were due in town, though our investigators are also finding it strange at the same time. Why did this happen when the Ignis mages arrived? Was it an attack?" While Lieutenant Mastiff did not mention Vivifica, it wouldn't be hard to guess that it ran through his mind that the rogue court had been involved. His attention then shifted toward Gerik, surprised that the Maester would inquire about his knowledge.

"Runes, Sire?" He rubbed at his chin. "I have indeed heard of them, I know their general purpose, but nothing more. Why is it that you ask?" He took a step, noticing that there was something that Vincent was curious about. At this Mastiff gave a start. "Excellent find, my boy!" He gave Vincent a clap on the shoulder. "Say, would you be willing to give me a copy of that drawing, please? That would greatly be useful while we research the markings, unless"–he shot a glance toward Gerik–"would you happen to know what this marking means, Maester Gerik?"

He listened as Vincent deduced that a mage must've been responsible, to which the lieutenant gave pause. "Perhaps," he said slowly, "though, forgive me if I am mistaken, but couldn't any individual with a knowledge of runes trace this sigil here, mage or not?"

The clock tower chimed the arrival of a quarter till 10 o'clock, 10 being when the meeting was to begin. The lieutenant gave them a slight jerk of his head in respect. "But my apologies, mages; I am sure that you have the council to attend. I will not hold you up any longer, though if any of you would be willing: perhaps you could pay a visit to my office at the station this afternoon? I would like to discuss these details further over tea, if possible."

Viridian Villa
HeartOfFerria , Scrapmaster , Nero Kunivas

Behind Arno he would hear heavy footfalls, as Tibarn clambered down the stairs into the sitting area. A yawn escaped the man, his hair askew and clothes wrinkled. He noticed his friend nearby, to which he announced himself with "Good morning," even though it was made obvious that he were there with the racket that he made. He stole a seat behind Arno, snatching up a paper and pretending to read, though nothing could escape his thoughts other than the screams that he heard all within the night. Finally, Tibarn glanced up to Arno, who seemed rather interested in his view from the window.

"You look serene," he told him finally. "That, or you're plotting something. It's that, isn't it?"

Miko Village
Nero Kunivas , Scrapmaster , RikuXIII , HeartOfFerria

It relieved the maestra when three of her dear mages displayed such loyalty, regardless of their lack of information. They were truly dedicated followers and devoted friends, if they were willing to break timeless laws, sever ties with the other courts, and import Itika with her even though they did not know why. It particularly relieved her when Richter proclaimed this task as "ours". It seemed that Richter had not forgotten his promise to her, even then.

Several years ago, late one night in the Vivifica Temple (plot-relevant flashback written by me and Scrapmaster):



That night still remained fresh in the Maestra's mind. As Aislinn opened her mouth to respond, Elliot next spoke, his words critical and calculated. While she could not argue about the validity of a few points which he made, his words greatly stung her. Her lips grew thin as she pressed them together. While apart of her wanted to crumble from his accusations, she knew that she had to remain calm and composed. After all, it was what a maestra should do.

"I understand your doubts, and I respect them," Aislinn responded, nodding curtly toward Elliot. "However, 'manipulation' is a word that I would use with care, Elliot. I am requesting my court to aid me in a cause; I am not forcing or coercing any of you. Do you see the numbers that are present"–she gestured around to the seven within the room, herself included–"there are seven of us. Seven. You are all that were interested in coming with me, to which I am very grateful for. Any of you may leave at any time, and may even leave Vivifica if you so wish. As for Jynn and Zion–"

She drew in a breath. While she seemed composed, her hands were tightly clenched at her sides. "I do not know where they are presently. They were indeed invited upon this expedition but, for reasons or another, they did not wish to attend."

A moment lapsed of silence, the maestra looking thoughtful, before finally she voiced: "As I have mentioned previously, I cannot tell you that which I am proposing, not by choice but of mandate. I have been given this task, though what I intend to do with it is for the benefit of humanity. Please, please try to understand." She shook her head. "But perhaps we do have enough mana, at least for now. Let us return to the temple with what we have, and perhaps then we can reevaluate."

- Arkane - Umbra Court - Sanctus Heights: Dining Hall -
Arkane jumped a bit with Hector as he saw someone new jump in and greet them. So that one was named Henry. He would watch, seemingly unamused as his expression did not change at the very enthusiastic introduction. "Arkane of Umbra Court." He responded, petting Hector further. "It is nice to meet the two of you." Such excitement and surge of energy was sure exhausting; that much was sure. He would listen to the sound of the clock, glancing around as it seemed that they should be getting ready to head to the meeting hall by now. "Well, our time for eating is up. Would you two like to walk together to the meeting hall?" He asked. He would look down at Hector, petting him as he turned away from the two, beginning his walk. "Do any of you know if the court-that-shall-not-be-named will show up at all today?"

Scrapmaster Xion136

- Arun - Ignis Court - Sanctus Heights: Dining Hall -
Arun finished eating. "Gifted by the phoenix?" Is that what they called it when they were gifted with the touch of fire magic? He would look up at Incarose. "If you have trouble controlling flames, I do have an advice for beginner use." He suggested. "Pretend that the fire is water, that your center is the faucet, and that your limbs are the pipes. Do not fight against the fire; follow it and flow with it. Increase the pressure depending on how fire you want, and once you are done, think of the water being brought back to the faucet. Another way to think about it is that the fire is your dancing partner. If you fight against it, it will retaliate. Instead you have to follow its flow, and then take the lead of the dance." He spoke. The entire time he would have a tiny sphere of fire rolling up and down his arm before crushing it and extinguishing it. "It is not a lot. But it helps when you feel that you are being swallowed. Do not fear it. Guide it instead." He would hear the sound of the bells. He picked up his plate and stood up on his feet. "We should start heading to the meeting." He said, setting the plate and glasses aside to be picked up and washed later. He turned to maester Daruk. "Maester, how was Aquilla? Is she well?"

RikuXIII Elrandir

- Vincent - Ignis Court - Sanctus heights: Central Square -
Vincent jumped a bit as he was patted on the shoulder, gaze turning to face the detective and the others. "Sure thing." He spoke. He would do some more copies of the rune, both drawn and traced before handing copies to the detective. In his own notes, he would write down underneath the notebook his own thoughts for later. The fact that it was made and carved post installation, that it was magic, although what kind he could not tell. He had never heard of a magic that could manipulate automatons. Somnum sometimes could control the trees and the plant life around them if gifted enough, and Umbra was corpses. As for infusing an item with magic; this was more than just infusing it. To give it magic would not be enough; he knew that as a weaponsmith himself. It had to be something much more powerful than just lending aura...but what? What could be powerful enough to give life to something so large? Runes were made to wield magic into items; but that thing acted like a puppet...no, a puppet required strings. The dragon did not need them. It acted alive. The bells of the clock would ring out, echoing across the city. He would adjust his hat as he turned to the detective. "I would definitely like to come after the meeting. The rune could have merely served as a reservoir of whatever magic it contained. The touch of any magically gifted person with enough magic could have activated it by mistake. It would definitely explain why it only acted up until Ignis court arrived..." He muttered. He was given the same education as most of those raised within Ignis until a certain age. Then he was separated where he would receive education non-magic related. It was not until he became a young adult that he would begin his study of becoming a weapon maker, engineer, mechanic, and infusing weapons with magic with the help of others. There were countless of runes with countless of uses and countless of creators; but it seemed that Gerik had an idea of what it could be. Then again, Maester Gerik had one hell of a pokerface...it was hard to know what he was thinking. "We will be bringing these concerns in the council meeting should the chance arrive." He added, turning to get ready to leave. "Shall we, Maester?"

RikuXIII Elrandir

- Yael, The Trickster - Independent - Sanctus Heights: Grand Hall -
Yael would be enjoying his sunbath when he heard some noise. He would turn to look over the edge, watching the two mages and the sleeping one. "One of them is asleep..." He mused. "It seems we are going to be witnessing the meeting rather soon, Jynn."

Endless Thundaza

Isabelle-Umbra-Transitional

The Blood Mage watched as another scene went by. she was still in the cold room however it was clear a large amount of time had passed she was taller, more developed, across the floor were scattered papers and stacks of books. Magical circles were drawn upon many of the floors and walls, all of which were made from blood. there remained no ink bottles. and one of the bodies was missing. most of the notes were written in red. Isabelle herself wrote with the red liquid. She sat with her back straight and in attention at the desk. the quill scratching away at the paper. Hey own eyes drained of life. She simply shook every now and then. she finished writing on the paper and turned towards the book she had open on the desk. Isabelle's eyes skimmed it swiftly before she stood up and turned towards the remaining corpse. her fingers moved through the air, pushing mana into the pale body. The girl watched as the body began to pull itself off the hook, succeeding and slumping down onto the floor. she stared at it for some time before finally parting her lips

"Look at you Charlie.... able to escape that which held you... even though you're dead. more than i can say for myself." she smiled as the body slowly stood up and held out its hand. a small flame dancing across it. the light flickered and danced across Isabelle's field of vision. the first bit of warmth she had ever felt in five years. She looked at it with wonder. its light the only warmth she had seen in so long. she began to wonder if this is what hope looked like. "Charlie, as much as i want to stay here with you, this was my final task... Ive got a list. I have people i want to meet. People I want to see. Ive heard their names. Ive heard of their feats. I need to know who they are." she looks down at her own feet. "This is the end." she says before moving her fingers again, her arms making a small arc. The corpse turned towards the door that locked her in the room. "Set me free." She commanded as her eyes darkened.

With a force of uncontrolled magic flowing through the old veins of the body. the corpse loosed a large fireball at the door, blowing it off its hinges. the blowback set the corpse itself on fire as the memories that existed in the flesh of the body were that of an untrained mage. Isabelle took a few steps towards the door. turning back to look at her prison before looking forward and leaving. Her eyes stopping on those of her mother. Piercing blue. Isabelle turned away from those eyes looking at her mothers feet. There were no words between the two. Just a cold stare and a clear sense of fear. Isabelle moved away from the cause of her suffering and headed towards her room. all sound that she felt was drowned out by a quick clank of metal, like a sword against another sword, then everything went black.

---------

Isabelle's eyes shot open and she sat up looking around, seeing Shiroo, the old man, the squabbling girls, and the council room. She looked down at her hands. They were white. It appeared that she was gripping them too tightly. There was a small glint of pride in Isabelle's eyes as she realized she wasn't in the past. She made it here... She deserved to be here. It didn't matter what her family wanted. The light was on her now. "You look familiar" she said, watching Shiroo. her eyes were swiftly analyzing the boy. any small movement he made she would notice. "Have we met?"



----
Quinn- Vivifica- Miko Villiage

The maid simply nodded "As you command." she moved to pack up and head out. she didnt have many of her own things to pack so it was more... her helping the others pack and move items.


---
Aquilla- Ignis

The mage simply made a small noise of excitement as her treat arrived. She hadn't had something sweet in a month or so now. she couldn't help but be excited. That very excitement overshadowed the pain she felt from her injuries.


---
Luka-Somnum- Bed

The storm mage muttered something about crystals, magic circles, glass, vast amounts of mana, metal, and proper resizing. she seemed to be planning something in her sleep. an idea of sorts.




----
Saffron- Unaffiliated

The Bounty Hunter smiled as she saw Tibarn. "Where did you go last night to look like that this morning?" she asked him. She looked happier, More wanting to be here. Like everything was starting to feel better in life.

- Henry Heid - Grand Cathedral - Makoto's explosive entrance -

Arkane's words stung, as he spoke, criticizing the current culture of fearing magic and everything that non affiliated mages went through, and he had to admit, Arkane had some good points. "No one should be treated as a monster for something that wasn't their fault to begin with, none of us chose to be born with magic." Henry added his own thoughts, "I'd be lying if I said the current culture regarding mages was justified."

"But that's how human nature has always been, history repeats itself." He added, with a sigh, it was clear that Henry did not approve of current customs regarding mages, and the power that came with them. It was wrong for a court mage to be treated as royalty and a non court mage to be a pariah and vilified.

Arkane's teasing didn't help much but Henry faked a chuckle at the thought. "We might get blamed, but we'l move on, and we will work on helping the recovery of the city. Im sure its just a matter of time before we get to the bottom of this though." Henry commented, after all there was no doubt many magicaly adept mages investigation the incident already, information was sure to come to light somehow.

"So, what's your n-" Henry stopped in his tracks as he felt something, a tingle in the back of his head, something was coming...something all too familiar was coming, oh god.

"Oh no-" Henry was cut off again as Makoto made her entrance and subsequently landed on top of his lap, and giving him a back breaking hug, a exhasperated sigh escaped from him as he was hugged, nearly leaving him out of breath. Still. It was good to see Makoto, an old friend of his, she was one of the first mages whom he became friends and bonded with when he joined the court all those years back, they were nearly inseparable when together, while Henry kept his cool Makoto was the more explosive one, no pun intended.

"Hey Makoto! I am fine" Henry answered her with a small smile as he placed a hand on his back to lessen some of the pain for a few seconds. Still having Makoto on his lap as he looked at her, "So how was your time in Sanctus? I heard you had been sent here a few days back." He asked her curiously.

The clock soon rang, and his plate was not yet finished, but had to be left as he got Makoto off his lap as he began to stand up, "Sure" he said while giving Arkane a slight nod when the umbra mage asked if they wished to walk together.

"You mean VIvifica, I am hoping they will, though I don't expect all of their mages to show up." Henry spoke, with a neutral tone. "Though I do hope they actualy offer an explanation in this meeting." He finished.

Stardustblade358 Xion136

- Arno Cross - Bounty Hunter - Viridian Vale -

"You look like shit". Arno spoke, his way of greeting Tibarn after waking up in an obvious hangover from all that drinking, though Arno couldn't blame him, everyone had their ways of coping with tragedies, each with varying degrees of effectivenes. Alcohol was one of the most effective of all from experience.

Tibarn noticed Arno looking out the window, Arno was calm as always, although a serious expression never quite left his face, without breaking his vision to look at Tibarn, considering he had taken a seat behind Arno, he wasn't about to turn around.
"Just planning a bank robbery". Arno answered the question in a dry tone, clearly it was sarcasm...or was it? Regardless his tone would probably be understood as a joke as Arno simply smoked a bit more of his cigarette.

"So, how much did you drink last night?" Arno asked Tibarn.

Mystics Apprentice HeartOfFerria Nero Kunivas

//////


//////


- Vlad - The Shadow dude - Grand Cathedral, Jari's room -

Vlad reacted rather well to Jari's screams, with a fit of laughter at Jari's expense, he had to admit scaring Jari was one of the best possible pass times possible back at Somnus, that wasn't endlessly reading books or novels...or sleeping for three fourths of the day like a good ammount of them did. Vlad was always more energetic and outgoing though, never one to just constantly sleep all day unless he was truly bored.

Vlad quickly rolled out of his shadow portal, emerging in full clothes and splendor as he landed deftly on his feet, the shadow portal closing itself without leaving any traces of its existence in the wall in which it appeared.

Doing a light and courteous bow towards Mako as she greeted him, "i'l surely take you up on that drink madam." He jokingly told her before looking back at Jari who was now changing himself.

He raised an eyebrow about the meeting. "Don't worry, im sure they won't notice a bit of alcoh-" He could not finish his sentence as the bell rung, signalling that they should gather for the meeting. "Oh, nevermind then. Guess we should attend it first or Nero will try to drown me." Vlad commented as he snickered as he noticed something about Jari's pijamas.

"Hey jari, im sure those tesla-coil buttons will be all the rage in a few years from now."

Thanny RikuXIII


- Richter Vanis - Thaumaturge - Miko Village -

RIchter's situation was rather tough, he knew that what they were doing was extremely shady and wrong, but he also trusted the Maestra and swore loyalty to her long ago, his conviction was already set in stone, he would not leave her side even if they were revealed to be in the wrong. Which hurt him as he understood Elliot and Tiru's enragement at the situation. This was expressed in his face, easily readable by those who knew him.

"The ships should still be docked where we came from." Ricther commented as Aislinn proposed for them to return. Looking out a nearby window.

"Shall we depart now?" Richter asked.

Mystics Apprentice Nero Kunivas RikuXIII HeartOfFerria

- Thea Nero, Incarose Vassar - Sanctus Heights - The Grand Cathedral - Dining Saloon -

Incarose remained silent while Anya explaned her story, her eyes going wide once she mentioned that she had raw itika tattooed into her skin. What she said made Incarose think about how she had approached her gift. She said that being able to control the fire of the phoenix meant controlling your emotions first, something that, no matter how hard she tried, was something she always failed once the power of the Phoenix began to get out of control. It always made her go back to that fateful night, with the fire, the heat and the screams. Anya, just like the Maestra, wanted to help her, this made Incarose further consider joining a court, even when memories of the Shepherds was fresh in her mind, even when she would be unable to truly forget about them.

The other mage, Arun, also offered advice on how to be able to control the power of the flame. Ironically, to imagine that fire was like water, the center was the faucet, and the limbs were the pipes.

"That is an. . . interesting way to imagine it," Incarose said while smiling a little, "maybe it would be better if. . ."

The redhead turned to look at the Maestra, and was surprised when she found her looking directly at her. It was as if she knew what she was going to ask.

"Both of our courts can help you, Incarose, you can be sure of that. BUT Ignis's speciality is fire, and while my court has teachers that could teach you the way around such abilities, I feel that being part of Ignis, and having Anya as an advisor, would be better in the long term," Nero said to Incarose, "Do not feel pressured to take on my offer to join Somnum. Do what you feel is right. We only want to help you reach your true potential."

The Maestra's words made Incarose think about making such an important choice. Both the Maestra and Anya were nice people, she could see that, but maybe the Maestra was right. Maybe it would be better if she had help from one who had the same abilities as her. Some days she wished that she could get rid of her magic forever, to be a normal girl once more. Other times she knew that she could make a difference, if only she could control the Flame of the Phoenix.

"I do not want to hurt any more people. I do not want to live my life afraid of when the next backlash will occur, and if others will be near me at that time," Incarose said to Anya, "I would be grateful if you could help me control this power, Anya."

Both Nero and Incarose heard the sound of the clock, it was almost time for the meeting. Nero double checked with her pocket watch. Her attention quickly moved to Arun as he mentioned Aquilla.

"Aquilla? You mean Aquilla Anistar? Is she with you?"

The mention of Aquilla Anistar, a former candidate for the Court of Somnum, caught the Maestra by surprise. She was one of the few cases that, sadly, she felt she had failed to help in their education as mages. Aquilla had just banished one day, and her parents never really told her the whereabouts of the poor girl.

"By the gods, it is good to hear that she is with the Ignis Court. But what do you mean if she is well?" Nero looked between Arun and Daruk, "was she hurt last night? Maybe I could offer some assistance before the meeting. Or even after the meeting."


- Diane Corbeau - Court of Umbra - Sanctus Heights: Central Square -

Diane remained silent as she watched the officer talk with the Maester and the other mage. She was wondering who could be capable of making and using a rune while using blood as a catalyst. A rogue mage, perhaps? Someone had used the seal to bound a soul into the machine by performing a ritual. Some of Umbra's best mages knew how to do that, some had done it in the past before, not that the general public knew about it, of course. Diane and the rest of the Fixers had to make sure of that.

The sound of the bells made Diane look in the direction of the Cathedral. Bells, what a nostalgic sound. . .

"It seems that the time for the meeting draws near, Maester Gerik," Diane said in a calm tone, "should we make our way back to the cathedral? Further investigation can be done after the meeting is over."

Zion - Vivifica - Clock Tower

"I am fine, Ronin." She said softly. As Remy awoke, she turned to look over at him. Her eyes, golden as the sunrise itself, bathed Remy in a warmth. "Why, after you have wronged me so? Because, Thief. I value life, even if in your misuse of itika robbed others of theirs. But it is not my job to take life in such a way, nor this man's. It is for the courts, the judges and justice system, to decide your fate. You will never escape the death you caused, not until you die. And I believe in bearing the burdens of your sins for much longer than a day." She kicked her legs as she looked across Sanctus. "I believe in redemption, too. But yours will be far longer than most."

Nero Kunivas Mystics Apprentice


Kagura Sumeragi - Somnum - Dining Hall, with Nero and Co

Kagura shifted and then rested against the Maestra. Quiet, the Water Dancer just waited for them to go, staying close to Professor Nero. Kaga was never very good in new places, and quite honestly Nero was the only one who made the poor dancer feel...safe.

Elrandir

Eclaire de Wynter - Umbra - Elle's door

Eclaire slid in. Carrying bags, she set them down before taking a small, tablet sized case from her bag. She walked over to Elle, and then offered it to her. "...I got this for you, Elle. A...a way. For you to remember me...to remember me when you are losing your calm. When you feel the armor start coming." She paused. "You came back at my voice. Maybe...this could help you keep control?" She said softly, her cat ears laid flat. From the looks of the bags, she had bought Feynne some clothes. She probably was heading to the infirmary after this.

Nero Kunivas


Makoto Suzaku - Ignis - with Henry!

Makoto pouted as she was slid off Henry's lap. Waiting until he got up, she grinned and hopped onto his back. "Piggyback!" She grinned, hugging his neck. "Anyways. Yeah, been monster hunting for training and such. I get better, and the area safer!" She beamed. "Can I sit on your lap during the council thingy? I haven't spent time with you in SOOOOO long. I just wanna hug you and see your face flush with annoyance every time I pop your back!" She laughed, hugging him a bit tighter teasingly. "So how was the trip over? Did you blow some stuff up yet?" She asked. "Ooooooh! And Vivifica is coming? Do you think the one with the tits will be here? The flying one." She laughed again. "I missed you so much Henry! We need to spar! I thought of a few cool things we could do while fighting!" She....pretty much ignored Arkane.

Scrapmaster

–Shiroo Chickori –Ignis– Great Hall–
HeartOfFerria

A smile played on Shiroo's lips as he poured the Umbra mage a glass of water from one of the pitchers, handing it to her. "We have met, yes, though it was a long time ago. I remember you here with, ah, your father, I think? And then I'd seen you here other times, too, but I understand if you don't remember me. I'm sure it's hard to remember all of the faces of your court, let alone that of Ignis, too." He chuckled softly, glancing toward the sleeping elder before lifting his gaze toward her again. "My name's Shiroo, Shiroo Chickori of Ignis. I forget, but which court are you from again?"

–Fyenne–Unaffiliated–Infirmary–
HeartOfFerria , Xion136

Shortly after the maid left Aquilla with her delicious treat, the Ignis mage would find another walking through the infirmary. It seemed that she left her bed and was going for a walk, her left arm bandaged and her hair pulled back in a loose braid. Her cheeks and eyes were sunken, and her lips cracked. She did not seem particularly well, though she was, at the very least, getting around.

The dark-haired young girl, Fyenne, poured herself a glass of water from the pitcher that was near the door, turned around, and noticed Aquilla in bed and smiled sheepishly. "Hello," she said politely. "Are you the Ignis hero that stopped the civilians from getting squashed by that robot?"

–Remy–Unaffiliated–Tower–
Xion136 , Nero Kunivas

The redheaded thief kept his head bowed as Zion spoke, her words seeming majestic to his ears, though the final piece caused him to jerk his head up in alarm. "So, wait, you're going to hand me over to Vivifica?" His gaze shifted from Ronin, to the tower's edge, and back again, fear clear in his green eyes. "And they'll take my life, you say? That . . . seems harsh. I said I was sorry, and I'll do anything you want. Just please, please don't get me killed, Archmagus."

Apparently he misheard her, thinking that the courts would indeed execute him rather than make the decision on whether such an action would be necessary. Regardless, Remy was in a tizzy now, managing to scramble to his feet and pace the length of the tower where they stood.

–Tibarn Llang–Unaffiliated–Viridian Villa–
Scrapmaster , HeartOfFerria

"Thank you," Tibarn replied sarcastically to Arno, as though his comrade dissing his appearance were a compliment. "A bank robbery, huh? What, you want to inflict more suffering on these poor people?" He was joking around to play along with his comrade, though there was a bitterness to his tone that was not normally present. Apparently, being left in a hangover was not lifting him in the greatest of spirits.

The rogue glanced over at Saff, surprised to see the woman so cheerful. While it was unsettling that she could be so happy while the rest of the city suffered such a great loss, he wasn't going to judge. Perhaps something had occurred that he wasn't aware of, and he was glad to at least be seeing her smile.

"Went to the local tavern," he muttered, shifting his gaze from Saffron out of shame. He didn't particularly take pride in being found in such a manner, especially in front of her. It was one thing if Arno had to witness this, but not the ladies. Especially not her.

"I don't rightly know how much," he managed. "I sort of lost track after my second pint–"

He shook his head, straightening in the chair before asking the room at large: "So, we're here. Sanctus Heights. Sadly it's not what it used to be, might not ever be again." He threw a glance over at Arno and his cigarettes, contemplating asking for a smoke but thought better of it. The nicotine may calm his nerves, though that was probably the last thing he needed to complement his hangover.

- Daruk Mordem, Ignis Court, interacting with Ignis and Somnum -

Daruk looked up from his mountain of food which was already quite diminished, swallowing a mouthful of food as Mellark spoke to him. Loud Makoto was for the most part ignored, the explosions not striking him as anything out of the ordinary, nor her vocal inflections of joy. Bowing tightly as well, he flashed a great grin in the nearby blue-haired man's direction.

"The trip went rather well, as far as trips go! A quiet and peaceful train ride with a lot of snacks and drinks, though getting here was another story. I couldn't have expected that fire would be employed by a machine! 'Twas a challenge, but nothing too challenging for all the courts present, eh? Gwa ha!" he laughed, giving Mellark a rib poke.

Daruk next listened in to the conversation about fire magic and how to utilise it. It was a clever manner of being taught, and while he thought of it as a little flawed he bit his tongue. Daruk was a firm believer in the balance of reining and letting loose the great power of flames. There was a time for control and a time for letting it be unbridled, though all of it greatly depended on the situation. Regardless of how he felt, it was probably best to let the younger generation use their powers the cautious ways they were tutored, and not throw a older perspective as a wrench into their handling the hazardous element of fire. Once they were older, they were welcome to experiment with their fire's strength.

"Well spoken, Arun, well spoken. This lady here will profit much from everyone's advice," he boisterously spoke, smiling as he dug back into some hash browns. When Arun and the Maestra of Somnum asked about the condition of Aquilla, he choked upon the fine mashup of potatoes and grease and cleared his throat of food and coughs. "Aquilla is doing as well as she could be. Anya helped heal her up after the dragon almost crushed her, and the doctor's say the damage is more -- what's the word? -- psychosomatic than physical. I don't know the extent of her injuries, but she is achy enough to want pain medicine. If you or your staff can assist with her affliction with your magic, Miss Nero, I'd thank you much. Water magic's useful, as well as a Somnum mind."

Mystics Apprentice Stardustblade358 Elrandir Xion136


- Jari Coriander, Somnum Court, in his procured room with Mako and Vlad -

In a flash of panic and embarrassment, Jari picked up the pace and zoomed out of sight with lightning speed -- what he recalled from the adventurer Ychera as Blitzschnell -- behind the privacy screen.

"I'm sure too! In a few years, they'll be collector's items!" he spat back, whimpering soon afterwards and changing.

A short while later he stepped out into the room, sporting a loose white shirt, a black undershirt, trim tan gloves, and his typical pants and fox-ear earpieces. His tail was nowhere to be seen, unfortunately for him, a burned victim from the fire and set aside in a wrapped clean cloth as if it were a precious thing waiting for mummification.

"I'm all set!" he said in a falsely chipper overtone, looking over to the cloth containing his tail as if for support. It's been a while since he left his tail defenseless (not counting the time he forgot it before the trip), but now was the time for bravery. Bravery! Holding back a need to wave at the inanimate part of himself, he slipped in with his fellows. "So . . . where to? I don't know where we're going."

Scrapmaster RikuXIII

- Thea Nero, Incarose Vassar - Sanctus Heights - The Grand Cathedral - Dining Saloon -

Incarose looked at Daruk timidly, something about the Maester made her feel a little overwhelmed. Maybe it was the cheerfulness that the Maester of the Court of Ignis had. Nero was surprised that Aquilla had been in Sanctus Heights, that was for sure, and more importantly, that she was hurt in the process.

"Excuse me, Maestra? Who is this Aquilla you speak of?" Incarose asked.

Nero thought about it for a moment, Aquilla had been someone important, or important to her, at least. She had been a candidate for Somnum, only for her to disappear one day without any clue left behind. Arun had made her think about the poor girl once more.

"Miss Anistar is, was a candidate that was meant to join the Court of Somnum. I said was because, well, she is with Ignis now," Nero said, "I'm afraid I do not possess all the details of the circumstances of her leaving a potential apprenticeship in the court behind. Nevertheless, I am relieved to hear that she is with Ignis and that she is fine. I will dare to take a guess and say she is at the Infirmary at the moment, yes?

The Maestra looked at her pocket watch and at one of the clocks in the walls. There was still time for a quick trip to the Infirmary.

"I will pay her a quick visit before the meeting starts. I've noticed that we are missing a few members of the court," Nero said as she looked at Kagura and Mellark, "Would you be so kind to go and tell them that the meeting is about to start? We are missing Mako, Jari, Luka and Laguna. If they feel that a longer time of rest is necessary after the events of last night, then, by all means, they can be excused of attending the meeting. We shall inform them of what was said later. Now, if you excuse me, I will be making a quick visit to Miss Anistar. Incarose, you can head to the meeting room with Maester Daruk, Anya and the rest of the mages."

Nero waved her hand and her cup of tea was taken into the kitchen by a surface of floating ice, then she stood up, gave everyone present a small bow and left the Dining Saloon and went to the Infirmary, asking for directions to the servants. Incarose was left on her own, her nerves making her stomach hurt a little.

"S-So, um. . . shall we. . . shall we go to the meeting room?" Incarose said quietly.

The Maestra looked for the infirmary, and she found it a couple of minutes later. Her hand stopped near the door after she heard a female voice asking for an Ignis hero that stopped the civilians from getting squashed by the automaton. She took a deep breath and knocked on the door.

"Miss Anistar? This is Thea Nero, the Maestra of the Court of Somnum. May I be allowed to come inside for a moment?"


Mystics Apprentice Thanny Stardustblade358 Xion136 HeartOfFerria

Aquilla-Ignis-Infirmary
The pink haired mage smiled nervously. “I wouldnt say I was a hero. But I did try to help some people during the fires. I got crushed by that dragon and to be honest its a miracle Im still alive.” She laughed, still nervously. The nervousness didnt get any better when she heard the Maestra of the Somnum Court was on the other side of the door. Her eyes turned from the girl to the door before nervously responding “c-Come in.”


Isabelle- Umbra
“If it was with my father....that was a long time ago... that was about five years to a decade ago.” She replied. There was tension in the word father. “Like him Im with Umbra.”