Fantasy Lucid

[zCrookedz]

Al

♩♫♪

• Rank: Master
• Armor: Leather Attire
• Weapon: guitar
• Mood: Ready to go home

With a satisfied, still sharp toothed grin, Al watched as the tree crashed through the forest atop his target with a convincing THUD! Al strode the length of the tree, his B.A.S.S. guitar slung over one shoulder as he made his way over to where Hap was eyeing her new weapon. Though he hated to not bask in the awesomeness that was his victory, when Hap mentioned getting back he leapt from his fallen tree and gave the beastie under the tree a rude gesture with his middle finger, before running off behind the hobbled Anima to catch up with the others.

As Hap and Al entered the clearing the others where fighting in, Al could see the beast had fixed several of his heads on the the melee fighters of the group, while several others were working on bolstering or just not attacking at all. Al looked a bit cross at those who remained motionless, but the glance was stolen away movement in the trees behind them. Al brandished the guitar once more, and made for the back of the group where Sam and Karliah stood. The head came out of the darkness quickly and had Al not seen it before, it was likely the two would have been in some real trouble. Luckily Al's guitar met the head a few feet from the two and knocked it away.
"OY! Your fights with me beastie!"
Al reared back his guitar once more as the head recoiled from the hit and turned to make another attack.

It seemed to happened out of no where, but as Al made to hit the head again, the head and everything around them exploded into light, sending Al backwards ass over elbow until he came to a stop some feet away. Al could only assume that the dreamer had managed to pull him self together and get a good hit in on the shadow. When he lifted himself from the dirt and leaves, he looked to the dreamer who had already risen and was looking to the hospital. Al stood to his full height and grabbed his guitar a few feet away before examining himself. His leather coat had been ripped down the right side, probably from a rock.
"Bloody brilliant."
He began knocking leaves out of the clothing as the leather began stitching itself back together. Suddenly the forest began to shift and Al watched as they seemingly jumped forward into the hospital with Al's back to the scene before the group. He turned around to see the hospital room, and the dreamer standing beside the bed. Al just caught Hap's attempt to hold herself back as he slung his guitar across his back. He didn't rightly care either way, he was just glad the hard part was over now.

 

[Tedronai]

When Eirene grabbed at his arm it was the first Teoh was he was aware of her presence.

"Master Teoh, what do you think of this situation? This Dream . . or rather what's going on . . it's different than usual. Why?"

He covered his surprise at the interruption with a cool look, holding her attention silently until she regained her sense of propriety and released her grip. The young Journeyman—journeywoman more properly—was one of the good ones. He should know. He had a hand in training her.

He realised he was being too hard on her, and attempted to thaw his frostiness with a smile but on his face, with those bared sharp teeth, it looked anything but friendly and so he gave up on it.

"The Dreamer was able to find his strength with their help. They must survive and they will survive. Won't they?"

Teoh returned his attention to the window. He had no answer to her questions and it would do no good to admit that. Not for either of them. No, better to remain silent until he had something constructive to offer. Together they watched as the Animi led the Dreamer to confront and dispel his Shadow.

“You’re talented, you’ve watched their progress. What do you think of this situation? What conclusions have you reached? What lessons have you learned?”

The questions were as much for himself as the young Journeyman. His eyes watched the touching scene that unfolded and watched the Animi revel in it but he could not share in it. For a Dream so completely filled with darkness it had been vanquished with remarkable ease. Perhaps it was his suspicious mind, but to him it had seemed a little…too easy.

 

[deer]

.

.

rank: journeyman | scenario: "tearful reunions & unanswered questions" | mood: tearful yet curious | tags: Tedronai​

Eirene felt as if years or even decades passed as she waited for an answer or even some sort of reassurance from Master Teoh, but none came. A part of her deflated, wishing he would allow himself to show some sort of emotion. Eirene always felt that showing emotions was one of the best ways to feel somewhat . . alive, especially since the first signs of being alive was . . crying. But, before Eirene allowed herself to feel somewhat in despair, her eyes widened, not in shock, but in relief and joy at seeing Master Teoh showing his teeth, attempting to form a smile. A slight chuckle escaped her lips as she smiled softly back at him, despite his sharp fangs and somewhat intimidating disposition.

Nevertheless, Eirene's attention went back towards the glassed orb before her, watching the scene. Her eyes widened at the bright light that emitted as she felt enveloped in some sort of warmth from the bright light. She knew that light. . it felt almost. . ethereal like. . like . . if she were to . . "pass". . again, the light would guide her "home". Eirene remembered hearing stories or even reading about it before, something called a "Heaven's light". But, with the combination of the sword Raphael managed to dream, the Dreamer's actual name, and the young rookie's song that echoed inside the dream like a choir of angels, Eirene couldn't help but marvel at the scene at hand.Was it all such a coincidence or was there something more? Regardless, the Dreamer, along with the team's help managed to dispel the fear fiends.

Soon enough, Eirene's eyes started to water as she allowed the stream of tears to drop down her face. Her nose began to stuff up as she sniffled, listening and watching the Dreamer before her in the glassed orb. She noticed the Journeymen, rookie, and Masters, either watching or avoiding the scene. Eirene knew if she was there, she would have blew it. She would have broken down and just cried because of how overly emotional she was. Nevertheless, it didn't help that she was at the Bastion and her comrades were inside the Dream.

Deciding to clear her mind, Eirene looked away from the scene, her attention drawn right back at Master Teoh who seemed to be asking her similar questions she was asking herself. "Those fiends . . .they're becoming bolder, more prevalent. Any chance they got, they took it, like a leech to a prey. It wasn't that they seemed strong, but their numbers grew, as if it manifested deeper within the soul of the Dreamer. Somehow, someway, I think with any opening of a single questionable act of negativity, those fiends begin to develop more within the adolescents. The fiends are known to attach themselves onto those who are most vulnerable. But, is there a way to stop it before it manifest further? I fear that situation wouldn't be the last and it's only beginning. Something is brewing within our grasp and under our toes. And we need to nip it in the bud before it becomes. . more out of place and out of whack. But, something about that boy, that name, that sword, and that song before the bright light only makes me only the more curious. Is it just random Dreamers or are the fiends striking specific ones? I do not want a second situation but. . it's the only way to understand more of what's to come."

 

[Bolts]

Name: Atlan	Rank: Journeyman
Mood: Melancoly	Weapon: Rapier

Atlan kept his right side forward as he stared down the head of the beast. Its swaying face, similar to a snakes, threatened a lightning fast attack. Though he was pained with a bleeding leg, he kept a confident grin. He had to believe he could take on a singular head else he wouldn't be anywhere near Journeyman status. He didn't work this hard just to get beat so easily. He steadied his breath with a soft exhale as he prepared for a strike. As the eyes of the beast widened, he felt himself shrinking in size. It was much too quick for him to react to. His saving grace was a single stone that struck the side of the head. Both the beast and him looked to the side to see Hap trying to distract but it only did so much. If on queue, the creature began its strike again but Atlan was ready now. Knowing someone had his back more or less, he allowed the gnashing teeth to come to him. With a simple shuffle of his feet, he guided the jaw off to the side using the rapier as the line. Though it did no damage, he created an opening for himself. Without hesitation he went to jab at the body but before he could connect a bright light appeared around the monster. He curled his eyebrows in confusion and fear as the light blew up in his face, sending him a few feet back.

Moments of blank light covered his eyes before the began adjusting to the dark night that surrounded them. Fluttering his eyes, he gradually began to move his body. Coughing as he rose from the ground, he looked around only to see they were in the hospital now. Every time he came into this setting, he felt familiar with it. Like he had lived in one for some amount of years. As he began walking, he soon realized his leg was fairly tattered from the vicious bite that send shocked pains as he put pressure on it. With a sharp hiss, he slumped back down on the ground to give it some ease. Looking up at the others, he was about to say something before feeling the aura of the room. Focusing on the dreamer he felt the somber pouring into the scene. His gaze lulled to the floor as he had no words to say at this time.

 

[DawnAntalios]

Karliah	Rookie
Mood: Solemn	Weapon: -

Karliah's focus was unwavering - even though her tiny frame trembled. Though the others were the ones who were doing the dirty work and the fighting she did not hold back either. Her song was being heard by everyone, but whether it aided them or not she could not possibly know. With purpose she closed her eyes, averting them from the field of battle to better focus on her somber task. It was then when the flash of light penetrated her closed eyelids and almost made her falter. The sounds of battle seemed to slowly die down and thus so did her voice fall more quiet before waning into the dark abyss that was the forest around them.

She panted, regaining her breath and opened her eyes... only to find themselves in a place which was eerily familiar. She knew not how and when was she in a hospital, maybe it was a dream maybe it was but a fragment of the past life... but she had a strange, chilly feeling running down her spine. She saw everyone quieting and looking around with a solemn look on their faces. She was puzzled at first for but a moment... but then she noticed the dreamer... and the still figure on the bed she was talking to.
Karliah nodded to herself as she felt the tension and heavy emotions permeate the air. Her first instinct was to walk up to Raphael and comfort him... to sing a melody which would help soothe his soul and those around them. But then she rethought her intent and stood firm, sheepishly walking closer to the group, almost as if a little girl was trying to find shelter next to grown ups. She wished the dreamer to find peace... even if it was very difficult in this very moment.

 

[SilverFlight]

Raphael continued speaking, now seeming not to notice any of them. Hap watched, trying to will her chest to stop aching. She wiped her eye angrily. Nyx stood there as if he'd seen this all before, which, knowing the old bastard he probably had.
"Thanks." The voice caught them both off guard, because it didn't come from Raphael, still bent, whispering over the body in the bed. This voice belonged to a figure in the corner of the room, glowing faintly but somehow more solid than the dream itself.
"I don't think he could have done that without you."
Hap strained her eyes, trying to put a solid form to the figure, but its true shape hovered just out of visibility, drifting through its own light.
"What the..." she looked to Nyx for a cue but Nyx only looked shocked...Nyx never looked shocked.
The figure didn't have discernible eyes, but Hap could feel when it looked at her, the others could probably feel it too as the gaze passed to all of them.
"Its good, what you do...maybe, one day I can do it too."
Nyx stood there in silence for a very long while before nodding slowly. "...Maybe you can."
There was then one moment where the figure took shape, just a brief moment but what Hap saw made her squeak. The figure that was glowing and speaking...it looked exactly like the boy, lying asleep under Raphael's eyes.
"It...can't be..."
But she didn't have anymore time to dwell on it, because as soon as the thought came the dreamscape began to dissolve. Hap's hand instantly went to the headphones around her neck. "The dreamer's waking up!"
Suddenly Nyx was in the center of them, a hand on his chain. "Back to the Bastion everyone. Now."
Hap closed her fingers about her key and focused. She felt a sensation like being pulled in all directions, before her vision narrowed and broadened again and she was standing exactly where she had been, next to the calm, translucent orb in the Window room.
She took a moment to register the surprised and happy faces of the other Animi, who had been watching the entire event. She caught sight of a stern Teoh and a bright Eirene. Her hair floated down about her shoulders, trickling with colour again.
The steady clop of hooves told her Nyx had taken back his comfortable form too.

Nyx	Rank: Master

"Good work." He praised his team. "I saw some tight team work, and very good thinking. A few personal notes: Karliah, very innovative way of defeating the fiends, but don't hold back, we need every animi present, especially when we're facing the Shadow. Hap, you were reckless, Al, you disobeyed a direct order." Nyx didn't sound overly upset, more stating an observable fact.
"Atlan, Collin, good work all around. Sam, don't be afraid to shift more often. I know you've got more in you." He said this all without looking around to them. "If anyone needs me I will be in the library, the next two classes are cancelled, use the time wisely."
He made to go but Hap stopped him with a short tug on his tail. "Whoa there, you're not going to explain what the heck that was?"
Nyx flicked his tail out of her grasp and turned. "What what was?"
"That...glowing...boy, or whatever. The dreamer didn't make that. It was too...solid."
Nyx regarded her thoughtfully for a moment, then turned and left. If they wanted answers, they were going to have to hound him for them.

Happenstance	Rank: Rookie

Hap made a rude gesture at his back. "Cryptic ass." She turned her attention back to the others. "Yeah, you know, I think I'm up for that party now. Meet me in my room if you like, in a little bit."
They had a lot to think about, every time Hap's mind drifted back to the dream to recount what happened it raised more questions: Why were there so many fear fiends? How had they tapped into the dreamer, to make themselves unstoppable unless the dreamer himself turned all his focus on them...and what was that glowing figure?
"Nyx knows something, I'd bet my rank on it," She thought out loud, hoping some of the others were as curious as she was about the matter.
"We should find out what it is."

zCrookedz DawnAntalios Lioness075 Collinbu98 Bolts Tedronai deer

 

[Tedronai]

Teoh watched the scene unfold beyond the window, and hope that he kept more of what he felt from his face than Nyx did. He did not have to hide it long for with the next breath the dream came to an end and the Animi fled lest they be lost to the void that would replace it.

The air ruffled as they returned to Bastion. Their scents were the first things to return; the nose of this form was a particularly sensitive one. Between the earthy scents from their scuffle in the park and the antiseptic smell of the hospital—both of which would linger for a few moments, until the Animi who carried them forgot or otherwise changed their essence to reflect that of Bastion.

"Good work." Nyx said. "I saw some tight team work, and very good thinking”.

It was a lie, but he would not call him on it in so public a forum. It would not be proper. With his rank of Master, Al was beyond his reproach, or at least that would be how he would see it. The others were a different matter, but the Head Master’s praise would make him rectification more difficult. He would need to speak to Nyx, and at the mention of the library he saw his opportunity.

“Cryptic ass!”

The outburst alone was bad enough, the gesture however was inexcusable. Nyx would have to wait. With a practiced composure he glided across the hall to stand behind her. Those who saw him do so held their breath or muttered fearfully under them, depending on whether they believed he could see them.

“And what rank would that be, Miss Happenstance?” he asked as he came to a stop behind her. “A word, if you please.”

 

[zCrookedz]

Al

♩♫♪

• Rank: Master
• Armor: Leather Attire
• Weapon: Guitar
• Mood: Smugly Satisfied

Al continued to watch the scene before them with the rest more towards the back. His silver tipped guitar pick was tipping end over end like a coin on his fingers knuckles as he waited for the cue to return home. Before the cue however, something strange caught Al's eye and he watched as a figure spoke to Nyx and the group from the corner. Al squinted a trying to make out the shape, but was only able to make out the shape of the figure on the bed before the dreamer began to awaken. With no more time to question, Al gripped the guitar pick and was pulled out of the dream.

His white talons made contact with the hard surface of the windows room with a soft click as he returned to the bastion. Al was a mixture of confusion and annoyance as he eyed the room and tried to piece together what they had seen. He was only brought out of his thoughts when Nyx called out to his insubordination. Al had his reasons for his call to go after Hap, but since any wasn't pressing the matter he shrugged it off as he stuck his smoke in between his scaly lips as he watched Nyx head off for the Library. Al had questions of his own for the center, but they could wait for now.

It was then that Al noticed Master Teoh and Eirene. The reptilian master looked like someone had shoved a badger in his britches. But then again, he normally looked like that. Al had no interest in hearing how Teoh would have done the mission "better", or give him the opportunity to once again show his disdain for Al's rank. It was better to just ignore the old lizard, so Al smirked and turned his attention to Eirene instead.
"Ah, Cora. A sight for sore eyes. Loveliest "tail" in all the bastion, and your scales are shimmering beautiful today as well. Did you catch my show love?"
Al gave Eirene a wink at the mention of her tail, eyeing the mermaid over with a bit of a crooked smile.

 

[SilverFlight]

Happenstance	Rank: Rookie

Teoh's voice was like a cold knife pressed on her skin and despite her growing wish to run she turned to face him. Damn. She hoped he hadn't heard.
Keep your mouth shut Hap, don't make it worse...
"Just one rank above yours." She said coolly, before her better judgement could convince her not to. Stupid. Nyx and Teoh were both masters, but the power balance was evident. It was no secret that the other master had little love for Hap, or, rather, little love for what she did and did not do, and Hap did little to hide her reciprocated dislike.
As of yet no one had ever actually been exiled from the bastion, Hap began to wonder how close she'd just gotten to being the first. She kept her arms folded, a neutral mask balancing carefully on her beautiful features. Her eyes darted towards Al but he was busy flattering Eirene, there was little promise of a rescue.
She met Teoh's harsh gaze finally and took a slow breath. "Yeah, all right." Her tone was akin to a lowered sword arm.
Hap knew better than to refuse the teacher's request so she walked slowly to the side and waited for the tongue-lashing he was more than likely to give her.

Tedronai

 

[Lioness075]

Name: Sam	Rank: Journeyman
Mood: Defensive	Weapon: Floof

While the others focused on fighting the Shadow and Karliah even went so far as to sing a ballad for encouragement, Sam remained where she was. She heard Karliah ask for her to join, but Sam was no singer. Karliah didn't seem too keen to wait for her, which Sam didn't mind and so she listened as Karliah sang and watched the others defeat the Shadow. Sam had always been more of the talker and excelled at mental games, but knew better than to try and fight when she may just get in the others' way.

Nodding at Nyx's suggestion, Sam bounded after Raphael and the others. Almost immediately, they were in the hospital and Sam's heart skipped a beat before it began racing. She always hated hospital scenes.
Hearing Happenstance's comment, Sam furrowed her brows and then whispered, "Yeah...neither do I."

Sam's eyes widened when she heard an unfamiliar voice. It led her eyes to a mysterious, glowing figure in a corner of the room. Who was he? Where had he come from?
Loooking to Nyx for direction, Sam realized he was as clueless as the rest of them were. Sam listened to Nyx's response and continued to stare at the figure in awe. Now that she thought about it, a quick glance at the figure lying in the bed led to her tentative conclusion: This was Raphael's brother! But how in the world was he here in the dream world with them? And why was he so calm about it? Maybe he was in a coma, maybe it was a side effect of such a thing! Nobody really knows what anyone dreams about in a coma. This could be truly amazing research and so Sam concluded that she would read up on comas once they returned to the Bastion.

Before her thoughts could swarm her mind any further, Nyx announced the dreamer was awaking and Sam quickly grabbed her key and focused appropriately. As she opened her eyes, she found herself back in the Bastion with the rest of her Animus family. Even the cranky, old Teoh and delightful Eirene were nearby.

Creasing her eyebrows at Nyx's ever-so-cryptic comments and then watching him leave for the Library, Sam wondered if he'd reached a similar conclusion as hers. At the very least, he seemed keen to do some research of his own.
Hearing Nyx's criticism of her efforts in the Dream, Sam mutely nodded, as she knew better than to argue. She really only would've gotten in the way of the others in a fight and she'd been way too distracted in the hospital scene to be of any use. She needed to get over the personal hospital stuff so she could be of more use next time.

Sam frowned at Happenstance's reaction and rude gesture when Nyx left. While she was one of Sam's closest friends, Sam never approved of such behavior and always chastised Happenstance for it. Alas, it seemed Teoh had caught notice of it and was delivering his own lecture, which would no doubt be worse than a Nyx lecture for Happenstance. Sighing, Sam still could not resist standing up for Happenstance, especially against Teoh. While Sam respected all of those above her own rank, she had always found Teoh's lectures to be more biased and his rough attitude often left her frustrated. His lack of praise in nearly every situation made him all the more difficult to like.

Bounding forward to join Happenstance's side, meanwhile shifting back to her usual kitten form. Skidding to a halt somewhere between Teoh and Happenstance, Sam's heart raced while she quickly spoke up, "Sir, I'm fairly confident that Happenstance meant no ill foul with her behavior. She has a tendency to act first and think later, but she'd never intentionally disrespect someone, especially not Nyx. We both share strong respect for the Master."

SilverFlight zCrookedz DawnAntalios deer Bolts Tedronai

 

[Collinbu98]

Name: Collin	Rank: Journeyman
Mood: Pleased	Weapon: Sword

Collin didn't have the best vantage point from where he wrangled with the hideous monstrosity that was the Shadow, but out of the corner of his eye he noticed Atlan join the fight, and it seemed for whatever reason Sam and the rookie girl had chosen to stay at the sidelines. Collin wasn't one to judge for not joining a fight, but he definitely wasn't having an easy time wrestling the Shadow as he was. His disapproval dissipated, though, when their singing saved the Dreamer from a crucial misstep. And just like that, the Shadow was vanquished.
The scene quickly transformed itself around them after that. Collin knew what to expect after that and allowed himself to take pride in his latest victory as Raph met his dream's resolution... Then something new happened. "Who are you!?" Collin demanded of the unexpected newcomer, but before there was any hope of an answer the dream started to collapse. Frustrated, Collin clenched his gloved fist and allowed it to carry him back to the Bastion.
The moment Collin reformed back at the Bastion his frustrations disintegrated, instead replaced with the pride that had swelled as he took down a hundred Fiends and wrangled with the Shadow. "That's right, people. You're staring at pure awesomeness," he informed the whole of the crowd as he flamboyantly swished his attention-craving jacket and began casually strolling through the ranks of people. This bold overconfidence was not helped by the confirmatory approval from the great Master Nyx.
His attention was turned back to Hap and his other companions, however, when the strange figure was mentioned once again. Collin could always wave it off for later as he basked in his newest glory, but it's not like Collin would be the center of attention regarding the talk that would inevitably surround this mission. Deciding- after a few minutes of internal debate- to join Hap in theorizing regarding this development, Collin moved back over towards her and the others again, only to find Master Teoh trying to pull her aside. Sam already seemed to be attempting a rescue, but Collin tagged his own thoughts on as well. "Ya, Master Teoh, Hap just wants to know more about that strange guy we met at the end of the dream. Could you perhaps tell us what exactly that was? Surely a Master like yourself should be able to inform us."

 

[Tedronai]

“Just one rank above yours.”

Thin trails of smoke escaped Teoh’s nostrils before he willed them away. He covered his irritation by plucking the spectacles that was also his Portal Key from his long, scaly nose and began to clean them; transfiguring his claws into soft cloths so as not to scratch the magical lenses. All the while he held Happenstance’s gaze, watching her wilt under his glare.

“Yeah, all right.” She said, caving.

Teoh did not speak at first. In part it was to show he would speak when ready, not when she deigned to listen. Also, he had not yet calmed himself. It would do no good to lose the high ground by showing the same lack of composure. Yet the pause cost him. Before he could speak others jumped to Happenstance’s defence. Sam, quickly followed by Collin: Both Journeymen, and experienced enough that they should have known better. Soon almost every eye in the hall was watching them. What he’d intended to be a quiet reprimand would become a spectacle regardless of what he did.

“Strong respect?” he said, addressing Sam first. “Well, if you believe shouting obscenities and gesticulating crudely to be a demonstration of strong respect I shiver to imagine how you would otherwise behave.”

He placed his glasses back on the bridge of his snout, watching his words sink in before continuing. “Look around, Journeyman.” He emphasised the title. “How many Rookies do you count in this room? Do you think Happenstance’s to be a suitable role model for them? That is what your defence of her implies.”

Teoh almost relented. Sam had promise and given the choice he would not have dressed her down so publicly, but she had brought it on herself. “She acts without thinking and one day that will get her, or worse, someone else killed. She almost died today and instead of reprimanding her, instead of helping her improve you would protect and mollycoddle her. What happens if when next she falls you are not there?”

At last he turned to address Collin. Another promising, if misguided Journeyman. His potential being hampered by the company he kept, and the role models he followed. Teoh hesitated. "That is the business of Masters, Journeyman. The Head Master will inform you when he considers it appropriate. It is not for I to second guess him."

He silently cursed Nyx. If only he'd had enough presence of mind to hide his surprise Teoh could have bluffed. The man truly was undeserving of the office he held, and now he had now made a liar of him. At least that was what he wanted to believe, for how could he tell them the truth when he could not even admit to himself that he did not know what had happened.

 

[Bolts]

Name: Atlan	Rank: Journeyman
Mood: Relieved and social	Add ons: Peg leg

As Atlan looked upon the scene at hand, he felt a few strings in his heart getting pulled. He was always a big sap for moments like this but he remained on the ground while lightly clenching his leg. It was strange though. Raph seemed to be in his own world once again. He didn't even seem to notice the group anymore. It was at the moment that some strange voice echoed out when he rose his head higher. The faintly glowing figure seemed very interested in the animus' as he thanked them for their work. While he was surprised like the rest, he found the ability to smile all the way through. He still wasn't sure how they were born into the Bastion, but they may have been looking at the newest rookie to come. Moments later, he was shook from his own thoughts by the yelling of Hap and Nyx. All around them, the dream was dissolving as the dreamer was awaking. Like the others, he placed a hand on his compass, ready to leave. He stood up before leaving and waved to Raph and the strange figure in the corner. Good work out there Raph! I hope we see each other again on better terms. And you! He said pointing to the figure. See you back at home when the time is right. He said as he gave them a thumbs up. With a hearty laugh, he finally traveled back to the Bastion.

He was a few inches off the ground when he was back in the familiar room full of people. As he dropped down lightly, he still had a sharp pain in his leg from where it was torn up. A visible shiver ran up his spine as he landed, only to drop quickly to tend to it. He began whispering pirate like insults into the air before his concentration was broke by Nyx. Hearing a congratulatory from the Master was one of the only things he really wished to hear in his time of training. Knowing the hard work he put in to get to this point filled him with glee as a big dumb smile came to his face. Rubbing the wound one last time, he decided to transform it into a peg leg for the time being. Stop the pain just a little so they could tend to it at a later time. Rising from the ground, he gave the wooden appendage a few taps on the ground. Yup, that'll do for n.. He said before getting cut off by the lecture coming from Teoh. Atlan winced as he saw Hap getting the brunt of it. Had he been paying attention to the problem, he may have been able to get a few words in but now he would just sound like a fool. He looked around a the group that had come out as they all started to return to the bastion lifestyle. The job was done and it was time to mingle about. He spotted a smaller rookie clad in white who was on the job with them so he decided to walk over. Hey! Nice work out here.. uhh.. Karliah was it? Yeah! I would have never thought to sing to inspire. Pretty creative if you as me. He said giving a thumbs up and the famous grin he held most of the time.
DawnAntalios

 

[SilverFlight]

Happenstance	Rank: Rookie

Hap's eyes softened visibly when Sam and Collin came to her aid. She said nothing, but her expression was clear: 'I don't deserve friends like you'.
The fact that they were willing to risk Teoh's dagger-like criticisms for her sake made her love them all the more.

"...She acts without thinking and one day that will get her, or worse, someone else killed..."

Hap's eyes flashed dangerously. The words struck and though she would never admit it, they hurt. Teoh was openly admitting that he valued her life less than the others, and though she never expected any form of approval from him, his confession of the fact felt like a betrayal. She felt her anger flare and this time she did nothing to curb it.
"You missed two important things Teoh." He voice was frigid but calm. "One: The fact that I would have gotten myself out of trouble. You can try and lord it over us if you want, but we have a lot more potential than you're ever willing to give us credit for. That goes for all of us." She would leave him to interpret that as he saw fit, "but what you're really missing is the fact that we never have to go it alone. We go in groups because we're stronger together, and that won't change. You should learn a thing or two about teamwork Teoh, might help." She let the taunt hang in the air, any residual obedience out of rank respect burned away by her anger.
She acknowledged Collin's question next, turning it into a new weapon and turning to go. "Guys, he's not telling us anything about the gold figure because he doesn't know." She locked eyes with the master as she said this, daring him to prove her wrong.
Lioness075 Collinbu98 Tedronai

Nyx	Rank: Master

Nyx meanwhile had made it to the library. He could already feel the communal knowledge of the earth pressing in on his consciousness. He filtered through it in his mind and when something of interest floated by he manifested it into a neat little book. The pages he scanned quickly and if it proved useful he would set it open, floating in the air to trail him as he walked idly about the space. His hooves thudded rhythmically on the grey carpet. If it contained nothing helpful he would send it back into nothingness. This process continued for a little while until Nyx had collected a happy flock of fluttering covers following eagerly in his wake.
"I've never seen that sheer volume of fiends before..." He muttered to himself thoughtfully, turning another page.
"The other boy...the one bathed in golden light...hmm..."
He was so lost in thought that he didn't notice the library beginning to change around him. The faint sound of waves lapped timidly at the silence, the carpet turned to sand underfoot and the ceiling changed to the blue of a sky, with small clouds peppering its growing expanse. The bookshelves became rock formations and overhead seagulls began wheeling lazily, and Nyx continued to pace, his little flock of books following him in the shifting breeze, and the sun painting a shimmering light on his black pelt.

 

[DawnAntalios]

Karliah	Rookie
Mood: Relief/Curiosity	Weapon: -

It was as if from a weird daydream... Karliah wasn't even sure whether the voice she heard belonged to the glimpse she got at the strange figure in the hospital. In honesty she could not answer that even if she wanted to... soon enough as the others looked around she could feel the still a bit unfamiliar pull from the other side. The dream was done, the dreamer was waking up... but she somehow was not satisfied. Everyone else joined the fray, fending off the demons except for her. All she did was sing and...
A warm feeling still filled her. She smiled as the world around her shifted. Someway, somehow she felt that at least she managed to help people out, even if just by a small bit. She was still learning, she believed. Next time it would surely be different... and perhaps less nightmarish than this one. Perhaps next time they will venture into a more pleasant dream...

These were the thoughts and feelings Karliah had as they returned to the starting point of their journey. The room around her looked just as it was before they left and plunged themselves into the abyss. She looked around with relief, seeing that everyone had made it out and she wanted to congratulate the others on the mission... but then she turned her attention to Nyx. His words, though were mostly analytic and not judgmental, struck her home. She blushed as the master commended her ways of usefulness and she felt a bit proud about it too. Not holding back though... that was something she needed to learn to do. She knew not the extent of her powers, nor could she summon items like the others did. Still, these words encouraged her to do more next time.
"Y-yes, Mater Nyx. I... I will try..." she managed before the master darted away.

Heeding Hap's words the girl blinked and was not entirely certain that she should follow their 'leader' as the rebellious girl intended to. The moment she wished to reply she finally noticed the rather scary looking master who now began reprimanding Hap. Al was someone Karliah respected but was afraid of - Teoh caused her outright to tremble for a moment before she regained her composure. She bowed her head and silently cursed as the others came to Hap's rescue, talking to the master to ease his judgment on her. Before she could look up and talk to them she heard a familiar voice behind her.
"Y-yes, My Lord!" she said, whirling around, blushing and panicking. Realizing how she had called Atlan she turned pale then managed to talk again "I mean... yeah... that is my name... Atlan. N-nice work on... your part too! You were... simply amazing!"
She was fuming with embarrassment as she had to look away when he mentioned her songs.
"B-but they are just that... songs... magical or not they... just there to help you do your job better. I... I am not a good fighter on my own..."
She looked at the others.
"Aside from Hap I am the only one who is but a rookie... I... I never been to a dangerous mission like this and... well..."
She was babbling around and she knew she had to somehow snap out of it, trying to find a better topic.
"I...I wonder... who...who do you think Master Nyx... is worried about? Have you... seen something similar before?"
Bolts

 

[deer]

.

.

rank: journeyman | scenario: "teamwork" | mood: relieved yet concerned | tags: zCrookedz​

Eirene's attention was back to the glass orb as her eyes widened with many mixed emotions. Her eyes scanned the scene before her, trying to make out exactly what in glowing lights was going on. How can the boy be in such a almost solid form and to put matters in perspective, glow so brightly? What was he? A spirit? A ghost? He wasn't part of the dream but how could he appear as they have done? He wasn't an Animi from what he had said to Master Nyx. But, before anything else was said, the dream was ending.

Once everyone was safely back at the Bastion, any thought of the glowing boy seemed to have disappeared from Eirene's mind as she gasped loudly, her face trinkling down with tears as she was happy her fellow Animus were back safe and sound. But, before Eirene could envelop anyone into a hug or whip her tail playfully at perhaps Happenstance or Atlan, she heard Nyx's words echo across the room. She nodded slightly, agreeing to Nyx's testaments, but at some points, she also disagreed with some observations. If she was in Al's position, she would have gone after Happenstance as well, no questions asked. Eirene knew she wouldn't have regretted it either, especially since the others seemed to have had a handle on the situation with or without Al's help. But, her curious mind went back to the glowing boy once more when Happenstance mentioned about what that boy was.

However, before she could actually follow Nyx, wanting to get some answers as well to head to the Archives, she was stopped by none other than Al. A wide smile appeared on her face when she was greeted by the spiked, purple-haired dinosaur. A small giggle escaped her lips as she heard Al's compliment. Her facial expression was followed by a red tint on her cheeks and a playful jab at Al's arm, "I make sure to clean them with kelp and seaweed daily. It makes the the tail extra glimmery and shiny. Thank you for noticing, Al!" Eirene exclaimed joyfully, relieved she was in the company of Al. She always found his presence enjoyable, especially since the dinosaur was beyond unpredictable as well as somewhat crass. He was unbelievably fun, plus, she liked his loudness, it filled the silence.

With a nod and a grin, Eirene gave him a thumbs up, "Of course I caught your show. Honestly, I would have done the same as you have. Though, I'm sure Master Teoh wouldn't have approved of my actions either. But, welcome back and make sure next time to be careful, regardless! I'm happy you made it safe and sound. It has been quite lonely and quiet around here without your presence you know." She remarked before looking at his guitar. "Will you play for me sometime?"

However, before Eirene could continue her rambles with Al, she heard Happenstance, Sam, and Collin's voice over her shoulders. Turning around to see what the commotion was all about, Eirene narrowed her eyes, slightly puffing her cheeks as she heard Master Teoh's words towards her fellow Animis. But, before she could interject herself into the scolding that Master Teoh was giving them, Eirene noticed that those three had got a handle on the situation already. Feeling quite proud of her fellow Animis, Eirene couldn't help but let out a wide smile, seeing that all of them had each other's back, sticking up for one another. Wasn't that what team work was all about? Helping each other from any angle and sides? Filling in the cracks and making sure the formation was tight with no openings?

But, once Master Teoh spoke against the words of her fellow brethrens, Eirene's eyebrows furrowed, listening to his claims and words. Her gaze went towards Al, wondering what he was thinking. "Al, everyone has different perspectives and even ideas, but the one thing we all have in common is the duty that we have and the strength to endure, right? So, must we argue and point fingers?" But, once Happenstance retorted back, Eirene couldn't help but felt that slap in the face of Master Teoh's harsh words. Eirene wanted so much to go over and hug her, but knew it wasn't the time to do so.

Nevertheless, Eirene's attention went towards where Atlan and Karliah were. Her smile returning on her face as was glad the Captain was speaking to her. Eirene loved her song and especially her singing. It honestly amped her spirits as well. Finally, turning her attention back to Al, Eirene smiled, "Are you tired? Hungry? Should we go and find Nyx?"

 

[zCrookedz]

Al

♩♫♪

• Rank: Master
• Armor: Leather Attire
• Weapon: Guitar
• Mood: Smugly Satisfied

Al's toothy grin broadened as Eirene began talking about her cleaning regiment. He could never tell if the mermaid actually got his jokes or if she was just playing along in her own way. Then her comments about his performance in the dream only swelled his ego until he whipped his guitar around , which shimmered into an acoustic guitar, and strummed as he winked at her.
"Craving some private time with Al love? I think that can be arranged."
With his mind tightly lodged in the gutter, Al nearly missed the scene going on not to far away from him and Eirene. The sound of Happenstances backlash at Teoh though, drew his attention back to the small crowd that had formed around Teoh and Hap.

Al could only roll his eyes at the situation until Eirene spoke up once more. Al let his guitar stay in its acoustic form, but slid it around his torso to his back before answering Eirene with a annoyed sigh.
"Because Cora, some Anima get a kick out of making others squirm."
Al's words were not loud enough for Teoh to hear. Again, the last thing he wanted to do was get into it with the old lizard. Again. But he did have more to say about the subject matter for Cora to hear.
"Ah, Teoh is being Teoh. Just like Hap is being Hap. Everyone's got their differences love, its what makes us unique. Don't mean that its gonna be easy for everyone to get along with each other."

Still Al watched as the group rallied around Hap and tried to talk things out with Teoh until Al's interest in the subject had diminished. He had already turned towards the exit of the window room when he heard Eirene mentioning food and Nyx. While the others were tied up with Teoh, Al had already made plans to see what the centar was up to after the glowing boy had showed up. He assumed Eirene was behind him as he exited the room as he spoke and gestured back at the room.
"Yea, why don't we go pay the boss a visit? Sounds like a lot more fun than whats happening in there."
The walk between rooms was not long, and Al made short work of the path with his longer stride. As he reached the door to the library, he looked at the door in slight confusion. It sounded like the ocean inside. As he pushed the door open, the path of the door was swept away in the sand that was once the dark grey carpet of the library. Al stepped inside, leaving claw impressions in the sand as he began wandering around noticing the changes to the room, passing by rocks that he assumed were bookshelves at one time. As he passed by a rock, his appearance shifted. His leather attire changed to loose fitting material with a floral pattern and a pair of pants with many pockets. A large sun hat, and white patch on his nose with large shades; Al looked like he was ready for a day of fun in the sun.
As he rounded the corner he found who,he was looking for with a flock of books hovering around him. Al cracked a grin as he leaned against a palm tree that seemed to grow out of no where.
"Ya know, I was thinking your tan lines were looking a little dull. Day at the beach should have you ready for bikini season."

deer SilverFlight

((Had to finish the post on my phone. Sorry for typos and cs will come later. Just imagine Al in the cheesiest Hawaiian shirt you can think of.))

 

[Lioness075]

Name: Sam	Rank: Journeyman
Mood: Defensive	Weapon: Floof

Sam struggled a moment, as she refrained from smirking at Collin's sarcastic undertone. It would be nice for Teoh to provide them with some information, but Sam doubted even he understood what had transpired in the Dream. Alas, their taunting did not bode well for the team, as Teoh just continued to get more and more frustrated with everyone. Why did Nyx abandon them to have to deal with Teoh on their own? Even dealing with Al would be preferable than being stuck with the old Master grump.

Listening to Teoh's retort to what she had originally believed to be a well-thought out defense, Sam's expression fell with her mood. Dropping her gaze to the ground, Sam slumped onto her rump and began aimlessly pawing at the tiled floor beneath her. Not only did he shoot down her ideas, he also made a mockery of her. The only time she ever hated being in the spotlight was when she got wrongfully called out or mocked. Sam's shoulders slumped and she folded her ears partway, both to exhibit her shame, but not completely folded so as to allow her to keep listening to what was said.

Teoh didn't even stop there, he went on to call the entire group out by saying that they were collectively a piss poor example for those beneath them. Sam whimpered at this, as she'd only ever strived to be the best example for those under her rank. She had only wanted to defend her friend, was that such a bad example to set?

The worst part about what Teoh said was that Sam agreed with his last few statements. Happenstance almost always acted without thought and it did nearly get her killed today. It was even possible that Al could've been further injured or killed with her depending on how everything had panned out. After all, he had been the only one willing to go after Happenstance. Still, Sam feared that Happenstance's reckless behavior would one day be her downfall...or the downfall of another friend.

The reprimanding now concluded for Sam, she wished she were anywhere but here. She feared that leaving now would only make things look worse for her. After all, they were already in everyone's sight in this room. There was no way that this whole scene had been overlooked.

Sam got a fraction of pleasure upon hearing that Teoh was as clueless as Nyx. It wasn't hard to notice his displeasure with the Head Master, so he likely had no idea what was going on if he were deferring to Nyx's proper title and the such. Sam couldn't even begin to comprehend Teoh's dislike and discontent with Nyx.

Things had clearly been too calm for too long, as Happenstance began her retort. Sam rolled her eyes at this, but kept her mouth shut and listened. Happenstance did make some good points, albeit in an overly rebellious overtone that likely would not help quell the anger and frustration between her and Teoh. The group that had entered the Dream had proved multiple times that they each had strong potential to solve problems in their own unique ways. There was no doubt about that, even if Teoh spoke as if they lacked such potential.

Hearing Happenstance's teamwork taunt, Sam couldn't help but quietly snort at it. Typical Happenstance, yet another good point. Teoh seemed to not even grasp the concept of teamwork these days. Sam had to wonder if he ever had.

Happenstance topped off her brave speech with declaring Teoh's lack of knowledge, which Sam had silently deciphered already. Deciding to not poke the already raging fire, Sam merely looked up between Happenstance and Teoh. Would Teoh keep retorting or walk away before this became an equally poor example of a Master?

Coughing faintly, Sam then tried to put on her brave face, as she spoke up, "Not to be a buzzkill or anything, but perhaps this conversation should be continued somewhere more privately? I'm sure the rookies here could use some valuable studying time and perhaps analyze what they have learned from today's Dream challenge."

 

[Tedronai]

Ah, the indignation of youth. Happenstance’s defiance did not surprise Teoh but the barb about his ignorance did; mainly for how perceptive it was. He sometimes forgot just how long he and the Rookie had known one another. His eyes flashed to Sam as the chastened cat spoke, but he did not answer her. It was precisely because they had challenged him so publicly that he couldn't stop now. To allow their behaviour to pass would set too dangerous a precedent.

“Child, I know your potential better than you know your own face,” he said evenly. “I was a Master long before you arrived in Bastion. I have taught hundreds of Rookies, some with more potential than you, some with less. Do you know what I have learned in that time? Potential is meaningless.

"Potential is a promise unfulfilled and until I see Fiends show deference for potential then I too will continue to ignore it.” Teoh circled Happenstance as he talked. “As for the other matter: I know the value of teamwork, but it should not be a crutch for one’s own weaknesses. Maybe you would have gotten yourself out of trouble, maybe not. I do not share your confidence, and if Master Al did he would not have risked the Dreamer to come to your aid.”

Teoh Continued more softly. His words would hurt but his ultimate intent was to make the girl see sense and he could not do that if it became a fight. Teoh did not enjoy being the bad guy, but to do his job being popular could not be his priority. “We Animi work in teams for many reasons, but the one most applicable here is to teach Rookies so that they may one day be something more. You however stubbornly refuse to progress, regardless of whatever potential you might have. You wish to prove me wrong? To get credit where it is due? Then grow up and earn it.”

Lioness075 SilverFlight

 

[TheGrandPygmy]

There was a noise. Someone yelling his name, pleading him to get up, but he couldn't move. The room was warm, for a fire was flickering in the fireplace. He felt a hand clasp his. He smiled, and his eyes began to close forever. As his eyelids fell, a thought came to his mind. A figure from the stories someone told him. A mighty hawk, that was more human in nature. A hero. The thought of it made him smile even wider, and he finally let himself go....

Maddox gasped and sat up quickly, only to be met with a throbbing headache. Bad idea. He slowly opened his eyes, trying to get them adjusted to the bright lights around him. When his eyes and brain could finally process the situation, he looked around quickly. "Where...am I?" He thought. He seemed to be inside a large building. Behind him were the front doors and in front, a sprawling area. It all seemed very grand, yet welcoming.

Maddox raised an eyebrow and tried to stand. When he did, he noticed he didn't have normal feet. He had talons, like that of a bird! He gasped and looked at his hands, which were covered in small feathers. He felt his face. Instead of a mouth and lips being there, it was a bird's beak! "Wh-What the...what's going on?? Where am I? Why am I a BIRD???" He practically yelled. He slowly stood to his feet and wobbled around with weak limbs. A bit in front of him, Maddox noticed a golden pocket watch. When he picked it up, he felt a bit of comfort and bravery. With this bravery, he began to look around his new environment.
SilverFlight zCrookedz DawnAntalios Lioness075 Bolts deer Tedronai Collinbu98

 

[Bolts]

Name: Atlan	Rank: Journeyman
Mood: Cheeky	Weapon: His smile

Atlan watched with charm as Karliah began fuming. It was fairly obvious she wasn't used to complements. Ahh come now, Lass. Inspiration is a feat in itself. Heck, if I could do something like that, dreams would be much easier to navigate. Fighting isn't always blowing a man down. Words carry some weight. Besides, sometimes you come out bruised going toe to toe. He chuckled as he displayed his peg leg. After resting his leg, he brought some fingers to his chin as he thought of her question. What was Nyx worried about? He asked himself. Well, it could have been the whole load. I've never seen a dream with so many fiends before. Nearly looked like the depths of the ocean. It could have also been the strange looking person before the dream went down. He was glowing after all. Never seen something like that. Probably wasn't too good that it acknowledged us on a sentient level either. He honestly couldn't pinpoint any moment that stood out the most so he shrugged and shook his head.

He started looking around at the room once more. It was starting to die down in Animus as they went on with their day. It was then when he saw Master Teoh, Hap, and Sam still having an argument. After a hunched over sigh, he righted himself. So much for a warm welcome. I feel we should help break it up... He slid his eyes to rest on Karliah. Hey! Follow my lead! He quickly hung an arm over Karliah and began putting so weight on her. As he drug her closer to the group, he shifted his peg leg back into the battered up one from before. Saaaay... Can anyone else help Karliah and I to the med wing? My leg is still pretty messed up. Heh... He said with his best painful impression. In fact, it was already healed thanks to being out of the dream. He simply made it to look worse than it actually was. I mean, it was a pretty crazy dream with out of the norm stuff. Guess it just didn't heal right away. We should probably get it looked at, right? With any hope, he would get Teoh and Hap away from each other.
zCrookedz DawnAntalios Lioness075 Bolts deer Tedronai Collinbu98 TheGrandPygmy

 

[DawnAntalios]

Karliah	Rookie
Mood: Mortified	Weapon: Blush

Karliah felt her cheeks turning ever so similar to the crimson hue that of a shiny red apple as Atlan continued his speech, giving her some not-so-subtle praise as he did so. The girl was not only unprepared for something like that but had no idea how to handle it either. She was a bit relieved when he began talking about the dream itself instead of her but that feeling was rather short lived: when the captain began to analyze the odds - the number of fiends and the strange glowing person himself Karliah was getting the feeling of being more lost as the conversation went on. Not because she could not reply but more because of how troublesome all this sounded - most of the people around here were veterans of different degrees and the fact that none of them had even seen such a thing made her feel very uneasy.
"Perhaps... time will tell about everything. It will... be unveiled eventually..." she said perhaps the most generic pepping speech, more to herself than to Atlan who - despite being confronted by these news - seemed stalwart still.

She fell silent as she followed the gaze of Atlan shifting towards another group in the room. Most of the people dispersed from this place save for the little band who seemed to be in some sort of a disciplining session more than anything. Karliah blinked cautiously as she shuddered at the thought of being disciplined by Teoh himself. Granted, she had only heard about the master's resolute iron will but she hoped she would never get into a trouble big enough to be confronted by the powerful Anima.
It appeared, though, that fate had other plans for her. Well, Atlan had, to be more precise.
"W-wait! What do you...?" was all she could manage as she registered the words of the pirate and noticed his hand being put on her as if he was not fine. Horror filled the girl as she felt being slowly dragged to the little group.
"H-hold on! Wait! No! P-please! I..."

It was way too late to protest as she felt her entire face turning completely red from embarrassment upon reaching the little group. Her eyes frantically raced between the people around her as she tried to regain her clam state as best as she could - needlessly to say, without great success. Hearing the words of Atlan made her wonder why the captain had not shown her these signs of weakness before but she had no time to process the possible hoax he was trying to pull off. All she could focus on was to try and not to act as a little scared bunny.
"M-master Teoh... with all due respect..." she began, bowing as she could to express her respect "I-if his injuries are as serious as the Captain claims them to be... then... we should... check it out for sure!"
She looked around at the others but they did not seem to be hurt, merely their pride if anything. Only now did she realize what Atlan's ploy actually was.
"A-afterwards... I believe we have some... researching to do as well. M-master Nyx was not particularly happy with the outcome even though we succeeded... there... has to be something more to this..."
zCrookedz Lioness075 Bolts deer Tedronai Collinbu98 TheGrandPygmy

 

[SilverFlight]

Happenstance	Rank: Rookie

Hap couldn't help but give a snort of disbelief at Teoh's statement about knowing her potential. She refused to only see herself in the confined space with which the master seemed to regard her. She was silent as he circled, though her eyes were locked to his. She couldn't shake the vision of a shark circling its next meal, the thought was unsettling. His words did hurt, mostly because there was truth in them, that jabbed like a well-placed needle under her skin. She would never let him see it though. When he was done she replied in a quiet voice:
"You want me to grow? Then start acting like more of a mentor and less of a dick."
Just at that moment Atlan limped over, requesting a trip to the infirmary. She doubted he needed it but jumped all too eagerly at the chance to get away from the master.
"Gladly!" She exclaimed, "come on Sam."
She put Atlan's other arm about her shoulders and helped lift him.
"Ciao Teoh, never a pleasure." She gave a little salute with her free hand and started off down the corridor.
"Hobble faster." She hissed to Atlan under her breath as she tried to put as much distance between herself and the master before he said something else. She was about to try and pick up the pace again when distant yelling filled the hallway. The odd thing was, she didn't recognize the voice as anyone she knew, and she knew most people in the bastion. Happenstance exchanged a confused glance with the others before slipping out from under Atlan's arm and jogging off to uncover the source.
She didn't have to go far, the stranger was in the main lobby, standing on his feet as if they didn't belong to him, a small watch clutched in one feathery hand. He seemed more than a little upset.
"Hey! Hey, its okay." She moved to him slowly, hands out in front of her to try and catch him if he toppled. "You've gotta be new. Don't worry, you're in a safe place." Her tone was soothing, compassionate and gentle, the complete opposite of the one she had used with Teoh.
"I'm Happenstance." She flashed him a wide smile. "Maybe you should sit down for a bit?" A couch appeared, white and plush, rising up from the floor to stand against one wall. Hap offered the bird boy a hand to lead him over.
Tedronai Bolts DawnAntalios Collinbu98 Lioness075 TheGrandPygmy

Nyx	Rank: Master

Nyx looked up, the books about his head dropping an inch as his focus shifted and he looked around. He seemed to notice his surroundings for the first time. When he attended to Al's comment he raised an eye brow.
"Bikini season." He said flatly, giving his horse flanks a critical glance.
Nyx closed the book he was reading and set it to float in the air with the rest. The flock stayed where it was while Nyx made his way over to the other master.
"I was looking into the golden figure we saw in the dream. That...doesn't often happen, and all those fiends? Something's not right in the dreamscape Al...I can almost feel it."
Overhead the clouds began to thicken and on the horizon a fork of lightning flashed.
"A storm is coming."
zCrookedz deer

 

[TheGrandPygmy]

At this point, Maddox felt like he was about to start hyperventilating. He took a wider step and nearly tripped over, "Damn these bird limbs," he hissed. Suddenly he heard the sound of footsteps and his head perked up. Some people were walking, to where he had no idea. Were they friend, or were they foe? He almost didn't want to find out. What lived in a place like this? Monsters? Humans? More bird people? His wings pressed against himself in fear.
Then he noticed a figure. It was a girl, moving closer. She seemed friendly at first glance, but he wasn't completely sure. Her tone seemed to give him a bit of comfort. It made the place all the more consoling. At first when she reached her hands out, Maddox stepped back a bit. "...Calm down...if she wanted to hurt you she would've tried it by now..." he thought. He tried to right himself, but soon fell forwards. The bird man gripped her arms trying to steady himself.
"Happenstance...that's...a nice name. My name is Maddox..." he said, practically mumbling. His voice was quiet, weak sounding, and carried a British accent. "Do you...?" he cut himself off when he saw the couch materialize out of thin air. His eyes widened in complete shock. How was that possible!? With a gulp, he nodded at her suggestion and let himself be led over to the inviting couch. Maddox landed hard, like he had been running a marathon and just finished it. A million questions ran through his mind at once, but only a few managed to come out, "Where am I...? What is this place? Why am I here? Why do I...look like this?"
He quickly stopped himself from asking any more. He didn't want to overwhelm the first person he met here with questions, but he was so confused. Were there others like him? How many lived here? Was it just her here? Where did this watch come from? He put a hand on his head. Maddox was giving himself a headache with all these thoughts. "Uggh...."
SilverFlight Tedronai Bolts DawnAntalios Collinbu98 Lioness075

 

[Collinbu98]

Name: Collin	Rank: Journeyman
Mood: Amused	Weapon: Charming Personality

Collin listened to the bickering of Hap and Teoh with an amused grin. Of course, Sam seemed less than satisfied with the dangerous situation and she quickly made an attempt to defuse the situation, though it was rather crude and obvious. Obviously Hap had no problems with leaving in a less than polite fashion, though, and she spat out her final words to the master. Collin was happy with being blatantly impolite, but he had just a touch more awareness for the long-term problems of offending a master, and especially a master like Teoh.
"My apologies for the rather awful behavior, Master Teoh, but I'm sure it was nobody's intention to make a big spectacle out of this in front of all these impressionable young students." Collin made a waving gesture that encompassed the large room still stuffed near-full with prying eyes. But then Collin noted the tremendous number of Animus and Anima in the nearby vicinity and decided to add just a little more to his comment. "But a more observant pupil than I might say you seem to have a few flaws of your own that you seem to be ignoring in favor of hypocrisy. Team work tends to work better when you're willing to admit an approach you didn't come up with can still be correct." Collin figured that was probably a good stopping point, and he swiftly back flipped a literally impossible ten feet back before quickly side-stepping to make his way after Hap and Sam. Most would say stunt tricks were childish in a place were you could do anything, but then by the time they said that Collin would have already escaped the wrath of Teoh.
By the time Collin caught up, it seemed Hap had taken the gang on a detour to calm a very dazed and probably new Animus. Collin's quick steps slowed down just in time to hear a name. "Well hello, Maddox. You're in the Bastion, it's a part of the dream plane, you probably just died or something, and I was wandering the last thing as well. You can look like anything, so why go with a bird? I can get Al being a dinosaur, mermaids and centaurs are at least mostly human, and Sam's got her weird thing or whatever that's about. But honestly other than that I have no idea why you'd feel most comfortable as some weird bird-person thing when you can look like anything. If you concentrate you can probably change it, but you do you. Actually, around here you can do most things if you concentrate." To demonstrate, Collin leaped into the air and landed on the ceiling, where he then put his hands behind his head and laid down on his back as he stared down at the tops of the heads of the rest of those in the hall. "Though on second thought, you might want to keep the bird thing. It'll make you unique, and it probably suits you if you came out like that. And you're probably going to need something to get you used to the whole 'sky's-the-limit' thing with the Bastion."