Auron draws julius dagger from his belt "shit why did I waste time to get some mana, I can't even cast a spell that would help. but the others might think I can..." he thought. knowing that spells wouldn't help him, he prepares to attempt a counter attack against the first goblin that strikes towards him.
Auron charge towards the first goblin with the dagger as his lance trying to ram in the dagger in the goblins chest hopefully hitting the heart and kill it. As for the other he try´s to evade its incoming attack with a side step trying to regain some space in between them so he can prepare his next move.
C) Counter on the first goblin B) Evade on the second one
Julius lowered his sword to parry the incoming attacks. Using the blade he struck the rock out of the goblins hand and kicked him out of the way before he kept pushing forward. Spinning around Julius dodged the next goblin who clumsily ran past him in surprise. The third one tried to lunge his stick at Julius' legs. However the Nord was ready and deflected the blow, breaking the stick on impact. But when it came to the last attack Julius were too slow. His string of actions had been a bit sluggish and it had caught up to him at this point. As Julius raised his blade to strike the last attacker the goblin lunged his sharp stick into Julius stomach. Grunting the Nord took a few steps and pulled the stick out of his abdomen. Julius put a hand over his wound to try to keep the bleeding under control. The Nord glared at the smirking leader in the back who was walking toward him. This is bad... I should be more careful.
In the back the other two boys had their own problems. James and Auron had two attackers each to take care of while Julius was holding off the others. Screeching one of the goblins ran toward Auron with his sharp rock held high. Mildly intimidated Auron hold out his dagger straight and ran against the goblin. Not ready on Auron's approach, the dagger slipped past the goblin's guard and pierced his eye. The monster fell to the ground screaming even louder still with the dagger lodged into his eye socket. The second attack was not far away. Throwing himself to the side Auron manages to avoid the thrown stick flying past his head. Feeling that he has the time Auron looks at his other friends. James seems to have his attackers under control, dodging their blows one by one. Julius however seem to be in a lot of trouble as the rest of the group have him surrounded. He looks wounded, someone has to help him!
Auron
A) Strike B) Cast spell C) Coordinate D) Channel E) Prepare F) Analyze G) Retreat
Body: 95% Mind: 95% Mana: 7 charges
Name: Auron Zecane Age: 13 Gender: Man Race: Swedian
Julius looked at his bloodied hand. His breathing had become heavy and the snarls and snickers of the goblins agitated him. He knew he was in deep trouble by now. "Guys... I think I need some help over here!" he shouted at the others as he slowly backed away from the advancing Goblins that surrounded him. He had to act quickly. Was he to brace himself for their attack, or does he risk being vulnerable by channeling mana to use with the stardust? Damn this whole situation! Julius didn't like speaking ill of the dead but if Desmond hadn't burned that house down this wouldn't have happened. Julius staggered and blinked. He was losing blood. Time to act.
Narrowing his lips in a snarl of his own, he decided to take the big risk, to channel his mana. The goblins would no doubt attack him any second, and then maybe he could use his stardust to blind them and retreat. It was the only plan he had, he couldn't fight this many at once. James and Auron seemed to hold their own pretty well, so maybe if he managed to retreat they would come to his rescue soon.
"Julius need my help, but first I must get the dagger back" Auron grabs the dagger turning it around in the goblins eye socket before pulling it out. Now with the dagger in his hand he shouts from the bottom of his lungs "FIGHT ME COWARD!!!" while launching himself on to the other goblin filled with adrenaline he try's to stab it hoping to kill it quick so he can help his ally Julius.
-"Guys... I think I need some help over here!" Julius shouted as he tried to back away. The wound in his stomach was hurting him badly to the point he fell on his knee. The stick wasn't envenomed was it? -"Close your eyes!" James shouted as he raised his hands toward the sky. Auron and Julius found no reason to argue and shut their eyes fast. From James' hands a tiny ball of light began to form. A split second later the light exploded in a blinding blast, incapacitating all the goblins making them run around screaming as they cover their eyes, except for the leader. The sly goblin had covered his eyes with the silver cloth he had. -"Old trick mage boy!" the goblin said in a snide tone as he ran toward Julius to strike him down.
Auron wasted no time and seized the opportunity given by James. He pushed in the dagger a but further down the goblin's eye and turned it, effectively killing him with some crunching noises. Pulling out the dagger Auron charged toward the now blind goblin that had thrown his stick. -"Fight me coward!" Auron roared in an almost primal tone as he forced the dagger through the screaming goblin's throat, resulting in a cascade of blood. Power was surging though Auron's body as he laughed. From his eyes trickled black vapors as more power was raging inside Auron like a vortex. I͏̩̹̖͔̟̳'͔̟̳͢l͍̫̘l̫̫̣ ̴̫̼͓k̠͍̫̞̺͍͇i͏͇͎̘̠̠̰̮l̖͕̥̜͖͝l̲̮͔̰͇̩̲ ̯t̸͈̟̻h͔̬͖̤͖̳̤́e̩͚̤̻̗m̭͟,̪ ̞͕̰̬͔͢I̭͙'͉̱̺͙ll̘͚̰͎̘̹͔ k̺̘͍̜̠̦̘i̥̪̱͇l̸̦͎̙l͕͕̼̫̠̬̲ ̺̩͕t͢h̝̪̗̳͖e̷̦̦̣̩m͉ ̠aͅl̢͇͇̥̠̣̞l͏!͘ Wait what is this? Auron felt his mind getting out of hand. It was filled with rage and the rush of battle. Is this me?
Julius was fed up with this bastard. While the other goblins wobbled around in blindness, their leader lunged at Julius to try to kill him. Julius had a split second to act. His body was strong, young. He was a Nord, fighting was in his blood. He wouldn't try some trick by blinding the bastard with the stardust, he would disarm and dismember this bastard and retreat before the other goblins regained sight!
Using the small amount of mana he had managed to gather, Julius uses it to empower himself, like he had done in Raw Magic class. He would move faster and become stronger for a short period, so he would gain a tremendous advantage over the little goblin. He would slice his neck open and then retreat back to the others before the rest of the goblins recovered from the blind. That is what he hoped at least, he could feel himself slipping from the bleeding. So concentrated was he that he didn't notice Auron's strange behaviour behind him.
"what is happening?!" Auron falls down on his knees, touching his own face seeing the black liquid on his hands. "What is this, this is not blood?" Auron starts shaking forgets about the blood on his hands he now start fighting his rage and urge to kill what ever is over him he puts his hands on his face trying to fight back harder. falling down to a fetal position on the ground rocking his head back and forward "this is not me" he whisper in to his palms doing his best to stop it.
What is happening? What is this, this is not blood? Auron falls down on his knees shaking. The black vapours from his eyes begin to fade as a jolt of pain make Auron convulse, forcing him into fetal position. -"This isn't me, this isn't me, this isn't me..." Auron whisper to himself while tears streams down his face, until conciousness fails him. -"What the hell? Auron!?" Julius can hear James shouting somewhere behind him. However the Nord can not afford to lose his focus, his life depended on this very next move. Standing up Julius readied his weapon. The Goblin was charging at full speed while pointing the dagger viciously at Julius. Showing no fear Julius walk forward and swings his sword horizontally against the leader's large head. Julius can feel his magic surging through his whole body, focusing all the power to his arms. Quick to react the goblin try to duck below the swing, but is simply too slow compared to the speed and force the strike has behind it. The blade sinks into the goblin's face and slices through the mouth, tearing the spinal atlas asunder before cracking trough the other side of the jaw, completely severing the top of the leader's head. The leader's headless body flails around aimlessly while his tongue flaps, gurgling noises and blood splurting from his neck. When the leader finally hits the ground his comrades recover from James' spell. Upon seeing their mutilated leader they flee in horror, throwing away their weapons while screaming. With blood splayed all over his face Julius fell down on the ground exhausted.
Victory!
Spoils Silver Dagger (?) 58 Copper coins
Auron never had it easy growing up. It was a lone and painful time. Auron had been a sickly child, often stuck in bed for several weeks straight. High fevers, agues and blood vomiting were common. It got better with the years however. Auron had lived with his his father, Gregory Zecane, and the family butler, Mahrti, in a manor on the countryside since he was born. It was common among noble people to live in an estate or a manor with their appurtenant fields and other farm life. The Zecane family is a very young, and small at this time, noble house. The Zecane ancestry can be traced way back, but it hasn't been a noble one until recent history, thirty years to be precise. Anything else is unknown to Auron, kept secret by his cruel father. Gregory Zecane look a lot like his son, or rather the other way around. They both share similar features, long black hair, pale skin and ice blue eyes. However Gergory is well built and tall while Auron is very slender. Gregory was a harsh father with high expectations. Auron, upon failing with his studies or in other manners failing to achieve his father's high standards, were often punished with cold violence. Gregory never showed any affection towards his son, as if Auron was lesser or unwanted. His family's whereabouts is a mystery much like everything else to Auron. Upon asking his father Auron was told that his mother had died giving birth to him and that any other family had been killed, reasons not mentioned. Gregory occasionally left the manor for long periods of time, sometimes several months, leaving Auron alone with the butler. Mahrti, the butler, was friendly towards Auron, though not very sociable. He was often busy taking care of the manor. Many of Auron's few fond memories are Mahrti reading old folk tales to him when he lay in his bed sick. There was not much room for fun or development at the manor. No friends around or anything fun to do. Reading literature and playing with toys was only fun for so long. However Auron's life would turn upside down one morning when Gregory woke him up...
-"James... James! There is blood everywhere!" With panic in his voice Julius stared at his bleeding gut with wide open eyes while laying down on his rice bed. -"You'll be okay Julius just calm down. If you start riling yourself up you'll only bleed faster, deep breaths is the key." sitting next to Julius, James grab Julius' head with his both hands and stare into his eyes. -"Oh sweet mother nature it hurts so bad! How do you know all this?" No matter how hard Julius try to apply pressure to his stomach blood keep streaming out between his fingers. -"I study healing spells you dumbnut. Now shut your trap and let me work my magic." James remove Julius' hands from the wound and cup his own hands over it. Julius feel a slight warmth inside as the pain fade away gently. Over the course of half an hour the bleeding stagnated to a stop. James laid down panting next to a languid Julius, spent after focusing on one spell for a great while. With half lidded eyes Julius look down on his blood caked stomach to find his wound now shut tight. Trembling slightly Julius relaxed, falling asleep almost immediately next to James who were already snoring.
zZzZz
Thursday, 06:27 Location: The shallow woods
Auron sits up screaming from his sleep, waking James up in the process. Where am I!? What happened!? Sweating and gritting Auron looks around himself. Julius and James is lying in a puddle of blood huddled together, covered in dried blood. Around the camp site lies the goblin corpses from last night's turmoil. Yesterday's action flashes through Auron's mind. I passed out... What was that feeling? Was it just the rush of battle? -"Auron? Are you alright?" James sits up rubbing his tired eyes. It was quite obvious Auron wasn't "alright," but the question was still valid. -"I'm not sure. I'm not wounded in any case." -"I see. Looks like we got some work to do, care to give me a hand?" -"Sure." Together the two of them carry away the nasty monster cadavers and pile them. By doing so now they could avoid the smell once the sun start to lay down its heat. -"So... What happened last night? You know, the screaming and all?" James asks timidly as they carry the kind of beheaded leader. Normally Auron would just brush it all off as his own business. But today was different and Auron decided on opening himself up a bit. -"Honestly? I don't know. But what I do know is that it wasn't me." -"Mhm... I think that was all of them. I'm off washing myself, can you wake Julius?" -"Yes." Auron walked back to camp and crouched next to the snoring Nord. Shaking him gently he wakes up. -"Good morning Auron, Nice to see you." Julius give him a weak smile while sitting up. "Where is James?" -"By the stream cleaning himself." -"I see..." Taking a good look at himself Julius decides that he should follow James example, being soaked in both his own and goblin blood. "I should go and join him." Julius stood up on weak legs and lumped away. When Julius arrive by the brook he spot James sitting on his knees bending over the glistering stream. James look up with water dripping from his blonde hair when Julius sits down next to him. -"Oh hello Julius! How are you feeling?" -"Weak and tired, but otherwise fine." Julius tossed his shirt into the stream as he began scooping water to clean himself. "It would've been much worse if you hadn't done what you did yesterday. It was impressive, being able to heal someone's wounds just like that!" -"Don't say too much. I wasn't able to completely heal you. The wound was deep, luckily it didn't puncture any organs but I couldn't heal it completely. Your body is still recovering from inner bleeding so make sure you don't push yourself over the limit or you risk the wound tearing itself open." -"I'll keep that in mind. And here I was looking forward to trying weapons practice today...
Slightly scattered from yesterday the boys arrive at school. Julius head to basic magic and James to religious. -"You coming Auron?" Julius asks as they walk up the stairs to the entrance. -"Actually, my class is behind the school." -"Oh, alright! See you at lunch!" Parting their ways Auron head for the training fields. It lies next to weapons class a bit secluded at the edge of the shallow woods. The area features an obstacle course and a running track that goes through the woods. Throughout the area are also several weights scattered and other objects of physical training such as ropes, beams and even pommel horses. A few older students are there warming up together with who Auron assume is the teacher. He's tall and fit with frizzly, brown hair. He's wearing tight leather pants and a simple, white shirt. Auron try to meet his glance as he approaches the group. -"I haven't seen you before! Could you be another early bird here to get some exercise?" The man asks cheerfully mid stretching. -"I guess so, this is physical education right?" -"You guessed it! My name is Tony, Tony Frisk" The teacher reaches out his hand to shake Auron's. -"Auron... Zecane." Reluctantly Auron mentions his last name as he shakes his teacher's hand. He has a painful strong grip. -"Nice to meet you Zecane! Why don't you and I go for a little run? It's always fun to meet a new freshman!" Auron was surprised that there was no negative reaction from the teacher upon mentioning his full name, positively surprised that is. Tony's strong attitude and cheerful way was a nice change of tone. Auron took place next to Tony in a jogging pace as they made their way along the running track. {Strength check: Very low}
Now Auron was not the most athletic child, quite the opposite really. He had never been exposed to hard work and never really played any games when he was younger because of his lack of friends. The closest he came to any practice was dance lessons with his father, which he was bad at as well. So it was no wonder that it only took Auron a few minutes before he was wheezing and struggling to keep up the pace. -"So where do you come from Auron? Swedium I presume?" -"...Western..." -"Western? I always loved the scenery there! The rolling hills, the salty sea breeze, the busy village life, it all appealed to me. Nothing wrong with the forest of course, but running in the woods get tedious after a few years. So what'cha studying?" -"...Demonology...Magic..." -"Black magic eh? Good to see you cellar dwellers leave your rituals some times. Just because you meddle with powers beyond human understanding it doesn't mean that you don't need a healthy body! Speaking of healthy, are you managing your meals well? It's usually one of the biggest obstacles to climb as a freshman." -"...I...We..." Jogging was hard enough, but trying to have a conversation at the same time was simply too much. Auron stop and falls to his knees trying to catch his breath. -"Oh? Perhaps a change of pace is in order. Why didn't you tell me?" Tony helped Auron up on his feet and lifted his arms straight up. "Keep your arms up, it makes it easier to breathe. Take big a rhythmic breaths, in through the nose and out through the mouth." After Auron regained his respiration the two continued along the track, now at a fast, much more comfortable, walking pace. The track was quite lengthy, probably several kilometres, and varied in altitude. "You are free to practice any kind of physical activity here in class. But I do recommend a balanced training, especially for someone out of shape, no offence." -"None taken." -"It might not seem that important, but a strong and healthy body can save your life. One day your life might depend on you outrunning a stronger foe, or having the strength to carry on through physical hardships. I've heard so many stories of students falling down clefts, getting chased down by orches, drowning, succumbing to malnutrition. It's a horrible place Lauzurus, so learn to prepare, persist, and overcome."
Julius made his way out of the lunch hall with a smile on his face. Today's basic magic lesson had been about magical energies and ways to acquire mana. However the reason Julius was so happy was that Agiatha had said that they'll start spell practice next week. Julius had also gotten the chance to brag some more for Marcus and the gang. Apparently someone had found a pile of goblin bodies and word had began going around. -"That silver dagger was probably Klara's, a freshman like you. She went missing last year and was presumed dead when no one could find her. Looks like they were right." Marcus sure seemed to know the most insignificant facts. Despite James' warning Julius decided to check out weapons practice. How bad could it be? Once there Julius met a very unsettling sight. Students, both younger and older, are lying on the ground crying and squirming. Some are bruised, others are bleeding. in the middle of the bunch is a young man, squatting while smoking a cigar. He wears nothing but a pair of simple pants and on his shoulder rests a wooden staff. -"Man... I've never seen such a pathetic bunch of sissies. You better get to nurse'y now, I got next class coming up. Oh and Ronja..." He stands up and walk over to one of the girls. "This is for trying to cheat!" He kicks her right in the gutter, making her puke real bad. "Don't you ever try to use magic in my class again or I will bash your head off with my staff, okay?" Whimpering the class help each other to get away from the disgraceful teacher. He squats again and keeps on smoking the cigar.
"Ey! I can see you over there freshman, get over here." The teacher glares at Julius intensely. Obediently Julius walk over to him. "Are you here for weapons class?" the man must be quite tall since he meets Julius eyes even though he is squatting. -"Yes!" Julius try to muster as much strength as possible to his voice. -"Well shit, so much for hoping I could have the rest of the day off. Okay sissy, fight me." He puffs a big cloud of smoke in Julius face and stands up. -"What!?" -"You heard me! Fight me sissy! You are here to learn how to fight aren't you?" Oh god, am I even a match to this guy? what should I do!?
Stinky, sweaty and beat Auron makes his way to the dark magic classroom. Auron open the door to the classroom only to find stairs leading down into a cellar. Down the stairs are torches burning with an eerie blue blaze. Spooky... As Auron walk down the stairs he hear the sound of a low key choir and bongos performing some kind of savage music. Downstairs it's even more ghastly. The classroom is very dim with dark mist along the floor and blue light coming from the torches. The other attendants to the class is standing in a ring, chanting and playing their music. Everyone seems to be a part of some kind of sect since they are all wearing black cloaks. -"Everybody stop!" An old woman shrieks. The classroom goes quiet. "I sense a new presence. Step inside the ring and join the ritual apprentice of the dark arts." Auron press himself through the ring only to be met with a very unpleasant sight. The teacher is an old hag, standing naked only wearing red body paint. Her skin tone is very dark, revealing she is not from these parts, and too much more. "Auron Zecane, Your troubled spirit finally found it's way down here." She slaps a handful of cold, moist mud in Auron's face. He can't help but cringe. "Do you seek to master the glooming spectrum Zecane?" She slaps more mud onto his other cheek. "Will you seek my guidance to master the power of darkness?" The other students start the music again, but slowly and softly. She slaps both her hand Auron's your cheeks and smears the mud all over his face. She moves in face to face with the boy, so close Auron could lick her nose. "Will you learn the ancient ways of power?" She whispers with a sly smile on her face. "Will you follow your fate and study the dark arts, or do you refuse the flow of the world!?"
Auron
(Open Choice)
*Alignment increased!* *Strong increased!* *Well being decreased.*
Name: Auron Zecane Age: 13 Gender: Man Race: Swedian
Before parting with Auron, Julius realizes something. "Oh by the way, you can keep my dagger. I'll keep the one I found on the Goblin leader. The silver dagger."
-
Cut to later, Julius was excited for the promise of learning spells next class. It was crazy. Learning spells! Finally! Julius had learned Empower and Stardust, of course, but... It wasn't really conjuring up infernos with spells or summoning demons. Hell, even healing or blinding light like James had done! Julius was excited for this one... But then he remembered it was time for weapon class. Bah, lunch first!
Talking to Marcus and the gang during lunch, Julius decided to admit it was him, James and Auron who had beaten the goblins. Although he also spread the rumour that Auron didn't do anything and had basicly just fallen to the ground. Dropping his voice low, Julius theorized that it might have been some sort of demon thing, since he had heard Auron attended demonic classes and that his dad was Gregory Zecane himself. He said James had saved his life twice, first by blinding the goblins so Julius could take out their leader, and again when he healed his wound. Although Julius realized this made him sound less of a badass, having been saved and not killed those goblins himself, he did feel like credit was due where it was due. "Though Auron -did- kill one goblin I think. I couldn't quite see that well, I was fighitng off five of them while the others took on only two each."
Later, travelling to weapon class... Well, it was an unnverving sight. Students lie on the ground moaning and ... Well one of them was puking now. Great, Julius thought. The teacher was more nuts than the raw magic teacher. "Okay sissy, fight me." says the teacher. Julius started sweating. The nord culture was a lot about first impressions, so if he seemed weak now by saying he was wounded he would be taken as a "sissy" forever. No! He wouldn't let his proud Nord heritage be stained. "Pfeh." Julius attempts to appear confident. "First a horde of goblins and now this. Fine, I'll fight you!" he stretches his arms to see how far he can push himself without ripping his wound open... Not very far, he realized. No matter. He raise his arms in a garde, and eyed his opponent. Yikes... This was probably gonna hurt.
"Thanks ." said zecane while he picks up the coins that lay on the ground
Zecane really liked the teacher Tony, first person here not to judge him for his father actions. whilst running Zecane grumbled in his mind about last night "Why did they have to see this, it can't end well" Zecane started to feel a little panic and stressed about it the more he dug in to the subject. thankfully Tony saved him from his on corrupted mind by beginning to talk with Zecane, but it was not easy to talk and run at the same time. zecane run out of breath really quick but the change of pace was nice "I see you next time Tony" Zecane said exhausted and leaves for lunch.
Zecanes walks in to the lunchhall "wonder where james and julius is maybe i can sit with them" he says while he looks around the hall for them without successes.
After lunch "A classroom in the cellar spooky wonder why its here?" Zecane thought as he walks down the stairs when in the classroom he began to feel that this was not a good Idea he answer the lady "I will follow the fate and study the dark arts"
A slightly intimidated Julius raised his arms ready to repel any incoming blows from the delinquent teacher. {Strong check partially successful!}{Well being check failed, too low.} The teacher however was simply too fast. With a spinning motion swings his staff right through Julius' guard and over his temple. The Nord fall to the ground covering his bleeding forehead. He can't help but to let out a few tears from the dizzying blow. It hurts so much... -"Now I don't envy your bravery. You throw yourself at me, the school's strongest Veappiljeur, without any weapon?" Julius try to get up but is quickly stopped by a swing from his teacher's staff over the chin. He follows up with jabbing the staff straight in Julius' stomach, ripping the wound wide open. "I am sure the Lynnian army could've had a great use of you during the battle of Ravenheart river, but I have no need for meat shields." The teacher press the staff's end against Julius' throat. "Let me teach you a life lesson. Don't bite off more than you can chew." With a swift strike over against the head Julius get knocked unconscious.
-"He said yes!" The naked teacher roared out in euphoria. -"Huzzah! Huzzah!" The rest of the class chants as the music picks up in both speed and volume. -"Let us dance children of the dark! Let us dance to praise the spirits of those gone by!" And so they did. This however was no pair nor ring dance. Not even something remotely close to what Auron had been taught. The rhythm was heavy and erratic. The steps, decisive and inelegant, borderline brutish. Jumping, shaking, sweating, trance-like, exotic. The teacher's bare, saggy breasts took more attention than Auron wanted to admit. They were ugly and wrinkly, but the bouncing pair was overly mesmerizing. Despite the intense tempo and Auron's current exhaustion he felt a moment of peace. Everyone's having fun, laughing and dancing together. No one is judging the other, just pure fun and spirit. Could this be where I belong? The dancing continued until class was over, so nothing was really taught today. But it sure was fun!
When everyone was packing up and ready to leave Auron felt a hand touching his shoulder. Behind him was one of the many students dressed in black cloak. -"I was hoping to see you here Zecane, I think we all did." The voice was that of an older boy, kind in tone. -"But why?" -"Because you're one of us, a child who embraced the shadows." The boy pulled down his hood to reveal his face. He had short, light brown hair that was neatly combed in a side parting. He had a fair skin tone and unwholesome dark bags under his chestnut eyes. "Your father is an inspiration, a beacon of light, ironically." He chuckled lightly. "Anyway, the name's Mildred, junior student." He reached out his hand which Auron shook. -"Auron, freshman." Auron responded out of courtesy since Mildred already knew his name well. -"Are you doing something important this weekend?" -"I've not yet decided. Do you have something in mind?" -"There are people like me who also want to meet you. Why don't you drop by the glooming magic club house this Saturday? It's in number three green at the back end of campus." -"I'll consider it. thank you for the invitation." Auron didn't show it but he felt overjoyed. -"The pleasure is mine! Oh, I almost forgot, I got something for you." Mildred turned around and walked over to one of the dark corners in the room. When he came back he carried something black in his hands. "Welcome to the class Zecane." He reached over a black cloak that looked just like what everyone had been wearing. "A small protection against negative energies. Almost everyone wears it in class, but it's not mandatory if you happen to swing the other way." -"Okay, thanks..." Auron didn't really know what Mildred was talking about, but the cloaks looked pretty slick so there were no reason to refuse the gift. -"I hope we'll meet again, Zecane." Mildred put his hand on Auron's shoulder again and gave him a genuine smile before leaving. When Mildred left Auron was alone in the classroom with his new teacher. This day have been strange... In the best way possible. Smiling Auron said good bye to his teacher before leaving. She only responded in a concerned stare.
-"Ooh wee, he sure is heavy!" Julius heard a young boy's voice through his barely awake state. -"It doesn't help that he's carrying around these weapons, *huff*" That's James' voice... -"I've wondered, do all the older boys carry weapons?" And that's Ted... -"Definitely not. Though I guess Julius is kind of special, being a Nord and all." Julius can feel himself being carried by the two boys. -"So how's he like?" -"Julius? Hmm, reliable I would say, strong too. He's great having around, a good pal." -"I guess my impressions were right then! I got a feeling for people, a people knower, yeah!" -"You're not so bad either Ted, it's nice of you to help us with the fire every night, not to mention this." -"Aww... shucks, that's what friends are for James!" -"I guess you're right, let's put him down here next to Auron." Gently Julius was laid down on one of the rice beds. -"Hey, what happened to... to to... What's his name again?" -"Auron." -"Ye! What happened to Auroron?" -"No idea. His face was completely covered in mud when he got here. Then he just collapsed on his bed and fell asleep. Must've had a tough day I guess." -"Aww, poor Auroron... Well, I'll light you're fire and leave you be, looks like you could use some rest as well Jamie." -"I think so too. Thank you again Ted, I'll make it up to you somehow." -"Don't worry about it! See ya!"
-"Hey, wake up you two! Wake up!" James aggressive whispering woke both Auron and Julius from their deep sleep. -"Muhh... What is is James?" Julius asked as he rubbed his eyes. -"There is something moving in the shadows, look!" The two tensed up as the looked where James was pointing. Indeed there were something moving in the shadows somewhere further into the woods. -"Shit, more goblins?" Auron whispered as he drew the dagger Julius had given him. -"I don't know, the silhouette looks taller, orchs maybe?" -"Well what should we do? I don't know if I can endure another battle?" Julius touched his stomach where the wound had been healed, again.
Auron
(Open Choice)
*Strong increased!* *Popularity increased!*
Name: Auron Zecane Age: 13 Gender: Man Race: Swedian
Julius gets up and draws his sword, clutching his side with his left, free, hand. "I can't bear another fight, I'm still wounded and beat up after today." He looks at the others, battle-stance ready, but reluctant to fight. He waited for the figure to reveal itself in the glow of the campfire...
"Bye Mildred" said Auron with a happy tone to his voice. "finely some people that seem to like me" he thought as he made his way back to the camp to sleep Auron was exhausted from the days activities.
Sleeping zzz
When woken up Auron looks up at james "Shit, more goblins?" Auron whispered as he drew the dagger Julius had given him. still waiting to see what was lurking in the shadows.
Drawing their respective weapons the group readied themselves for the worst. The shadow closed in to the camp, moving slowly in a straight direction to the fire. But as it got closer the group could relax as the light revealed it to be an older girl. She looks like a junior student with long black hair like Auron, perhaps a bit fairer (and cuter for that matter). She wore a gray robe with several large white dots embroidered on it and around her shoulder hanged a big leather satchel. -"Ehh, hello! I didn't scare you did I?" She asked a bit timid as the three boys mumbled excuses and hid away their weapons. "I'm sorry to be here this late but you're a little hard to find. You are cottage eighty one blue right?" She asked that as she began searching through her satchel. -"We were at least. Why do you ask?" James asked standing up. -"I got a letter for you. From Jan to cottage eighty one blue. I'm the post girl." She gave off a sweet smile. -"Oh, I see. Sorry for the trouble then and thank you for the letter." James said as he took the small letter. -"Just doing my job. Have a nice night." The girl curtsied briefly and hurried away in the direction she came from. -"A letter from Jan huh? What could it say?" Julius sat himself next to James who began opening the letter and so did Auron.
Dear former residents of cottage 81 blue...
I can happily inform you that reconstruction of your home begin tomorrow evening and is expected to be finished Sunday afternoon. If you want to assist in the construction you are free to do so, but our master artisans usually prefer to work alone. I can also happily inform you that in addition to your new cottage you're also receiving a new room mate. He is expected to arrive early Sunday. I expect you to treat him well.
Jan Blummerdam
-"A new room mate? Let's hope he's less of a weakling than Desmond were." Auron said yawning as he laid down on his rice bed again. -"Only two days to build us a new home? Lauzurus sure is something." James put away the letter and followed Auron's initiative. -"Just one more school day before the weekend, I sure could use some rest." Julius laid down as well and quickly drifted back to sleep again together with his other room mates.
Friday 14:02 Location: Trance magic classroom
"Alright class settle down, be quiet both orally and mentally please." Julius sat down in one of the many empty school benches in the classroom. The one who just spoke was the trance magic teacher, a short and young woman with curly light brown hair. She wears thick, protective leather gear over her whole body, forcing her to wag very stiffly. "In the coming week and also today we're going to keep practicing meditation, one of the most valuable skills used to strengthen your mental resistance." Julius had both seen and heard of meditation before back in Northwrack. Some of the men in the village who prayed to Leila, the goddess on nature, used to meditate to come in closer contact with her. They took place together in one of the many tents where they would smoke some kind of herbal mixture. They could sit still for many hours straight, only staring blankly into nothingness. However Julius had a feeling this would be different in a more magical way. "Rest your heads on your desks and close your eyes. Keep them closed during the whole exercise. Try to relax and discard any thoughts that comes to mind. It does not matter if they are good or bad or neither, discard them. Once you feel relaxed and your mind is blank focus your magic at the back of your skull slowly. Remember the golden rule in trance magic. Do not read anyone's mind without their permission. If I catch any of you breaking this rule I will personally punish you."
Julius rest his upper body on the hard school bench and closes his eyes. He could feel the stress he had built up during the week and his still pulsating wound. The week had been very busy for everyone, for some even too busy... Will my injury ever fully heal? How can I show Jenny my feelings for her? Will I be let back in to weapons class? What if the house construction won't finish in time? Can we last any longer in the wild? What really happened to Desmond? Can I trust Auron? Can I trust James? The worries filled Julius' mind one after another. His stomach twisted with burden. Am I strong enough? That one thought resonated strongly within Julius mind. But something else also stirred within, a young boy's determination and will to survive. I am strong I am confident I am convincing We will overcome He was weaker than me Together we are strong I will pull through!
And like that, all the doubts and ill thoughts within Julius head was gone. All the remain was a clear and empty mind. Letting his magic slowly creep along the neck and into the back of his head, Julius focused his magical energies. The icy winds of Northwrack bit Julius' cheeks. It feels good being home. Was he outside? No, actually he is in one of the common tents, the kind that's made out of bear pelts. I like it here. The crackling fire place filled with birch wood warmed kept him warm from the storms outside. Was he alone? No, beside him sat the girl of his dreams, Jenny Redoak. She's freezing, she can't be used to the extreme temperatures here. Julius swept her inside a snowfox pelt, pulling her close to him so they could share body heat, an old, Nordern trick. Julius could feel her rosy, cold, soft cheek pushing against his own, her clear blue eyes, reflecting the dancing fires. Closely huddled together they sat there together in each others' embrace. I could stay here forever...
When Julius woke up he noticed the classroom was almost empty. Only the teacher remained behind her rostrum. -"You did pretty good for your first time Nord." She said with a smile on her lips. "Any details you'd like to share from your experience?" -"Erhm, not really..." Julius answered shyly, blushing lightly. -"I see, well it's not unusual for one's unconscious to drift that way. When you get better at it you can control what's happening a lot better, forging your own dreams." -"Re-really!?" Julius burst out. If I can dream of whatever I want, how I want, well that means... all the possibilities! -"It's true. But it requires extensive practice, so if that is what you crave consider coming to my class frequently, the world could use a few more dreamologists." -"I'll definitely consider it, thanks!" Relaxed, satisfied and with new gained confidence Julius was ready to face the weekend.
Auron was positively brimming with power when he got back to the camp site. This morning he discovered that dark magic was his forte. Although he was happy that he was very good at it he couldn't help but feel somewhat bitter sweet. Am I really that destined to become like my father? Auron had created perfect darkness to the point that the only one finding their way in the classroom was the teacher. All the other students had applauded him and cheered. -"You're really good Zecane!" -"Way to go Auron!" -"I knew he was the best!" Those words of encouragement meant the whole world to him right now. As if that wasn't enough Demonology had been going great today as well. Auron had managed to re-establish the connection with the demon he had talked to earlier this week, or at least he think he did. -"You are Zecane? Me don't believe! You much very known in demon land! Even trash know Zecane is good filthy being!" Today was a good day. When Auron got to the camp site all his roommates were already there, Ted as well. It seemed like everyone had a good day as Auron was not alone to smile like a fool.
-"Oh, hey Auron! Welcome back!" Julius greeted with a cheery tone. -"Thanks." Auron sat down next to the fire place. Ted had kindled the fire place already. -"So guys, what are you doing this weekend?" Ted asked, happy as ever. "I'm going to explore the school a little bit, there must be so much more to it! You're free to join me if you'd like!" -"Sounds exciting, but I'm going to the city. Just because it's weekend doesn't mean I can skip out of church." -"Oh, I see. What about you two? What are you doing Julius and Auroron?"
Auron
(Open Choice)
*Well being increased!* *Popularity increased!* *New element acquired!* *Learned a new spell!* *Spell level incrased!*
Name: Auron Zecane Age: 13 Gender: Man Race: Swedian
Throughout the day, Julius was mostly excited to meet the new roommate of theirs and to finally have a cottage again. Nevermind that it would take a few days, he was excited. He even planned to help the carpenters, as he had found 'detention' to be quite fun. Perhaps the crafts teacher would be one of the carpenters? Maybe they are senior students? Julius was starting to learn how things worked around Lauzurus. The students' well-being wasn't exactly the top priority, and instead learning was number one. No matter the cost. Weaklings were expelled (or died in incidents/accidents) regularly, and now and then Julius could see the occasionally injured junior. The senior wore scars, too, he had noted. This truly is a scary school. So how did Lauzurus work? Well, Julius thought to himself, the students are expected to take care of themselves, much like in Northwrack. I suppose this is a step further towards the extreme, however.
Then came Trance Magic class. An interesting concept that Julius had heard some older students talking about, but in reality he had no clue whatsoever it was about. He simply had an open spot in his schedule for today and thought he would try out some different classes if he didn't find something fun. Much to his astonishment however, Julius found that trance magic was so much more than fun. It was exciting. Who would have thought that dreaming and meditating would be exciting? Losing himself to his dream, he drifted off into the north again. To his homeland. He wrapped a white cloak around Jenny Redoak, and the two shared a wonderous moment... Of course, when it was over Julius realized it had been a dream, but he felt strong. Confident. He had cleared his mind of most troubles and convinced himself he would pull through. Lauzurus wouldn't break him, like it had broken so many others. He accepted the fact that he will never know how and why his former room-mate Desmond, bless his soul, had died in such a way, and what really happened to him.
That post-girl sure had been mysterious, skulking around in the dark around their camp... Though she was kinda cute?
In the dark class classroom zecane really shined, Auron felt extremely excited as he was the center of attention of the class. He stood there in the middle of the class making a cloud of darkness that made whole him disappear and he could hear the other student was stunned seeing his performance. After everyone left he began to think "Maybe I'm really my fathers son that this is my legacy" he shock his head not wanting to think about it and remembering seeing that one girl he saw in class she was absolutely stunning to look at she had long black hair just like Auron and she had really dark eyes, pale skin. Auron didn't see much more of her in the class as he focused on his magic and being the center off attention, "Maybe she will be in class tomorrow too I'll try to catch up with her there" and he felt his stomach filling with butterfly's thinking about it on his way back to the camp.
Happy with his success from his day in dark art class, he thought of sending a letter to his father telling about the progress Auron had been making hoping his father would appreciate such a letter from his son. and maybe spend some of the coins for a gift to that girl he saw. "I'll visit the city on saturday" he thought just before coming back to the camp.
Zecane knew already what he wanted to to in the weekend "I was thinking of going to the city as well James, would you mind if I tagged along with you? Which day do you plan to get there? I was thinking of taking dark magic class tomorrow and seeing a new friend". said Auron with a cheerful tone.
-"I was thinking of going to the city as well James, would you mind if I tagged along with you? Which day do you plan to get there? I was thinking of taking dark magic class tomorrow and seeing a new friend". Auron asked James with an uncharacteristic gleeful voice. -"Really? You're not going to any of the temples are you?" James asked back equally surprised and sceptical. -"No. I figured I would relax a bit and see how it looks, maybe buy myself something, I'll see what comes to mind." -"Well, I guess it would be rude saying no. I'm heading in both Saturday and Sunday. Since you're busy tomorrow I guess it'll be best that you come along on Sunday." -"Sounds good to me." Auron gave James a genuine smile, making the blonde boy wince, ever so slightly. Did Lauzurus change him or have I misjudged him? Auron doesn't seem as grumpy and dreary as I thought. Julius look with a curious smile at the pale boy. Perhaps he's reliable after all? -"Cool! I would like to buy me some sweets, or hot liquorice! But sadly I ain't got any money left..." Ted looked down with an envious face. -"What did you spend them on?" James asks curiously. -"I spent all of it during the trip to the school on sweets..." The group shared a big laugh together. -"I figured you'd be a sweet-tooth Ted!" Julius said still snickering a little. -"Do you even have sweets where you came from?" Auron asked genuinely curious. -"Pfft, what do you take us Nords for? Savages and cavemen? Nothing beats frozen owlsroots!" -"Ehh, I'll take your word for it. So Julius, about your weekend?" Ted asked humoured. -"Oh, right. I planned on helping rebuilding our house and maybe rest up a bit. I can't imagine next week being any easier than this one." -"I agree. Thanks for the help again Ted, but I think it's getting late." James says yawning. -"Yeah, it's way past my bedtime already. But hey, no one can tell me what to do! I'm as free as a bird! I'll see tomorrow again guys!" Ted waved as he ran back to campus.
Saturday, 11:44 Location: Dark magic classroom
-"Very good Auron, you're learning fast!" Ummumaq, as Auron had learned was his teacher's weird name, clucked. The number of students were scarce during the weekend's lesson, and the few that were there were classes way above Auron. However, to his delight was a peculiar girl that he had been eyeing the day before. A pale-ish freshman with wavy black hair and dark eyes. She wore the same black cloak that Auron and the almost all the other in class did. She had been practising the darkness spell while Auron was learning a new spell called "Shadow Blast." By the end of the lesson he had learned how to use it properly, how to form darkness into small concentrated masses and fire them at an opponent to inflict numbness, minor injuries as well as disrupting the target's magic. There hadn't been much room for interaction during class as the two of them were busy sharpening their skills, so once the lesson was over Auron would gather his courage and approach her.
While the young boy by all means had the looks going for him there was a whole other matter when it came to social interaction. Auron never had any friends and barely any relatives to practice on. One would easily say he was inexperienced when it came to that sort of thing. However his father did teach him some valuable things during his trials, some of them being formalities and courting (which came off very weird at the time as Auron had never seen much less met a woman). There is an expectation on Auron that he must find someone to make his own one day, perhaps today is the start of something beautiful? With determination Auron walked up the the girl and stopped her. Here goes nothing!
-"My lady, excuse my intrusion but I couldn't help but notice your stunning eyes even in this murk. My name is Auron, first born of the house Zecane, who might you be my fair maiden?" Trying to mimic what his father had taught him Auron bowed lightly as he took the girl's hand and kissed it lightly. {Convincing check succeeded!} When Auron looked up at the pale girl's face it had turned red. -"I- um, I am- eep!" covering her face she ran past Auron and straight through the door. Did I do something wrong? -"Way to go Zecane!" -"Yeah! Zecane the womanizer!" Auron heard some of the older boys laughing at him at the other side of the classroom. This heat on my cheeks, the twisting in my stomach, it's... Embarrassment... Auron took off the cloak and put it under his arm before shoving his hands deep in his pockets as he left the classroom. Not until Auron reached campus did he stop and take a deep breathe. Well, that was a fluke, I think... Guess I'll better go visit Mildred at that clubhouse before it's getting late.
Julius had taken the liberty of sleeping in on a day like this. Satisfied with the extra rest he approached the ruins of their old home as the mid day sun shone strongly above him. In front of the dust covered porch stood two men. One of the was Basil wearing a large tool belt around the waist. The other man however was something out of the ordinary. The man was built like a mountain, tall and bulky with coarse black hair covering his arms. His black beard grew uneven thin over his wide cheek and chin. His white shirt had its arms folded up above his elbows and was covered with many greasy spots. -"Damnable kids! Not only did they feel the need to ruin the cottage, but they also had to hold back enough that it didn't burn to the ground and on top of that trying hard enough that repairs won't cut it! Tit sucking lavender children arrgh!" The man's loud voice vibrated strongly, probably through the whole campus. -"Calm down Anders. Let's just get to work and get this over with. Besides, I heard this was an accident anyway involving some freshman dying." Basil's tone was very condemning. -"At least it's only a waste of resources, coins and our time then. Was that meant to console me you fuckwit?!" The huge man slapped Basil lightly over his cheek, though Julius could imagine it hurting quite a lot considering how strong the man looked to be. -"No need to get all touchy you crude swine. I want to wrap this up just as much as you want and you know it!" -"Ehm, excuse me..." It had taken a lot of courage for Julius to interrupt the fight between the two artisans. -"What the hell do you want freshman?" The towering man turned around most upset. -"Do you mind if I help? I'm sure it would go a lot faster." -"Yeah, sure thing! Let's have a freshman running around the build site, accidentally getting caught in a spell or crushed by a wall, it'll be great!" -"Hey... You're that Nord boy who got in detention! You don't have to worry about this one Anders, he actually got some work drive." Basil cut in, giving Julius a stylish half smile. -"I can't... I just... fffff.... Screw you Basil! Fine! But he stays with you at all times!" -"Yeye, get up there and do some work already. Now, Nord boy, I ain't letting you go all wild and crazy with a sledgehammer on that ruin if that is what you hoped. Here take this hammer." Basil reached behind his back and pulled out a simple hammer that he gave to Julius. "We're going to toss all the scraps to you and you'll determine if anything is remotely salvageable. Nails, screws, wood, anything." As a Nord, Julius only had a vague idea of what Basil meant. -"I'll try my best!" -"I have a feeling you will. Just stay put and we toss the things your way."
After the petty setback back in class Auron strolled through campus looking for the clubhouse Mildred mentioned the other day. I wonder who wants to meet me? And why me? I guess I'm noble and all, but still... At the far end of campus Auron found cottage three green, though it was more of a house than a cottage, two floors tall with a balcony where two boys leaned their backs against the railing. Compared to the dark magic classroom this place looked very mundane. I guess everything associated with dark magic doesn't have to be dark and gloomy. Outside the doors on the stairs sat a large and brawny young man with many scars over his knobbly face. When Auron tried to pass him he grabbed Auron's arm with a steel-like grip. Auron grimace in pain as he try to pull loose. -"No freshmen are allowed inside the clubhouse!" He sputter aggressively. -"Brutus, you blind donkey! Can't you see this is Zecane!" Mildred scolds the doorkeeper as he comes through the door. -"I thought he would be older, and stronger." He says dumbfounded after he releases the painful grip. -"Don't mind him Zecane, he wouldn't recognize his own mother. We're very happy you chose to pay us a visit, let's not keep the rest waiting." Mildred put his arm around Auron's shoulders and led him inside.
Just like the outside the interior looked very bland. There was a kitchen on the bottom floor and several stacks of chairs next to a few bookcases filled with frayed tomes. A big black rug covered the middle of the room and to the right were the staircase leading up to the second floor. As Mildred continued up the stairs Auron could hear the buzzing of a crowd from the floor above. Feeling nervous Auron swallowed loudly. The top floor was filled with mostly older students, many of them wearing the same type of cloak Auron carried under his arm. The walls were covered with portraits of students, probably students that are or have been of importance to the club. The students in the room looked intensely at Auron as Mildred led him to the middle of the room.
-"Auron, first born of the house Zecane, welcome to our modest clubhouse!" In front of Auron stood an older boy wearing a dark robe with several tiny golden stripes stretching diagonally over his chest and legs. He wore a pink tiara adorned with glistering onyxes over his gleaming blonde hair that were combed over his right eye. "I am Laszlo Gallard, master student and the prolocutor of the dark magic club." The boy's voice and body language was positively dripping with charisma and confidence. "Do you know why you're here?" -"Mildred gave me a vague idea." Auron lied. -"Great! Now I'm sure you and your family have experienced a whole lot of injustice during your life. Strangers, rich and poor, judging and shunning you like pests and monsters because you practice or associate with glooming magic. As if you were more evil than any other wizard!" Though Auron could relate to all of that he was convinced that his father had committed much worse sins than practising glooming magic to earn the infamous sobriquet "The Betrayer." "Also we have experienced just that as many other wizards of the same trade, resentment. Two hundred years ago the glooming magic club was founded to bring damnlocks, starlocks, dimlocks and deathlocks together. It wasn't just to share our common interests, but rather to bring us together like a big happy supportive family. It's a tough world out there, there's no shame in seeking comfort." Auron didn't have to look, he could feel how the mood changed in the room and smiles that began to form on the faces of the many students. A big happy family... "However. Though we're having a jolly good time, this is only a bandage over the bleeding wound that is our reality. I have an aspiration, an ambition, that we can fit into society just like any other wizard. Call me high-flown, but I dream of a reality where we all can be friends and respect each other."
-"So where do I fit into this big plan of yours?" Auron asks curiously and slightly taken away by the big ordeal. -"You have something we don't have. Your name." Laszlo flash a big bright smile. -"My name?" Auron tried to hide that he felt a little sad that they only wanted him because he was a Zecane and not because he was Auron. "I'm sorry but my family name won't be of any use to you. It's very tainted and badly regarded." -"Oh I don't think you're seeing the whole picture here. Your family name gives you a privilege we don't have. It doesn't matter how many good deeds we do, it would just be baseless rumour, the action of an individual or some part of a 'hidden scheme.' And even if it seemed genuine to some it would never change the status qou. But you, with your name comes reputation, everyone knows who the Zecanes are. Everything you do will be reflected upon your name, a name that has been associated with 'the evil of glooming magic.' You single handedly have the power to change if glooming magic is frowned upon or praised!" The thought had never occurred to Auron that all his actions would be reflected on his family name this way. -"So what would you have me do?" -"You just have to be yourself Auron. Be good and kind, help people out and play the hero. Sounds simple enough right? As appreciation we let you into the club. Usually we don't allow freshmen to join but you're a little too special to pass up. So what do you say Zecane?"
Ferociously and methodically the two artisans tear down the ruins of the cottage. Boards, planks and furniture gets thrown in Julius direction as the bare bones of the burnt cottage slowly diminish. Julius begin sorting the scraps in two piles, one for the garbage and one for what looks usable in any way. To no surprise the garbage pile rapidly grows larger to the point that the good pile looks pitiful. After an hour of tedious sorting Julius look up at his old home to see only an empty foundation standing. -"Was that all? They really messed up the cottage good." Basil scratches his head as he inspects the two different piles. "Oh well, we're finished here now. We'll leave you to make the preparations Anders!" Basil picks up the remaining usable scraps. -"Alright, make sure to use the concoction that witch made. And don't forget the stamp!" The large man shouts back. Picking up the last of the nails and bolts Julius hurry after the craft's teacher back to his workshop.
When Julius arrive at the workshop it's filled with stacks of wood ready to be refined. -"This is how we're going to do it. I'll be cutting the wood with the machine you used last time. You'll be coating the planks with a thick, oil-like substance we had the dark magic teacher make. It's a new experiment we're trying, apparently it's supposed to increase the woods protection against magic. Be very careful how you handle it. When I tried it out I accidentally spilled some on my favourite shirt, completely ruining it. The stains simply won't go away. When you're done coating the whole piece you'll use that stamp over there." Basil pointed at a big stamp made out of stone. Probably need to use both hands for that one! "If you forget that we'll have to assemble the house by hand." Julius sat down behind the designated workbench and grabbed the large brush that stuck out of the can filled with the sickly dark green goo. When the first piece of wood was slammed in front of him, Julius carefully stroked the plank with the rough brush, covering when side at a time. When he was sure the whole piece was covered he picked up the heavy stamp and dipped it in a tub next to it filled with ghastly white water. When the tip of the stamp were thoroughly wet Julius pressed it firmly against the wood, leaving a large cluster of incomprehensible symbols. Are these magical runes? I heard Agiatha speaking about them in class. After only a few seconds the mark had vanished, leaving no trace whatsoever. Sorting debris was a tedious task, but coating the planks and stamping them were even tiresome. After four hours of work Julius back, arms and wrists were completely exhausted, trembling with ache.
-"Good work... err... I didn't catch your name?" -"Julius, Julius Frost." Julius reached out his limp arm to shake Basil's -"Good work Julius, that should be all the materials we need to finish up our work tomorrow. Speaking of tomorrow, did you have any plans to help me out again? You really did a good job today and I wouldn't mind having you around. We're going to finish up the furniture and assemble the house if you're interested."
Auron
A) Sure, I'm in on this! B) Find someone else to play your pet monkey! C) Let me think about it.
*Popularity increased* *New spell acquired* *Black cloak added to equipment*
Name: Auron Zecane Age: 13 Gender: Man Race: Swedian
"Well that could have gone better, maybe I'm not that good as I thought at being a womanizer" Auron thought as he left with a little bit of shame as the other students made fun of him for his try. "Well at least I learned a new cool spell" he shudder to himself as he makes his way to Mildred.
He followed Mildred nervously inside the Clubhouse "Wonder what waits for me inside?"
Hearing the offer from Laszlo Auron answered "Laszlo you are speaking of me as a property a pet I'm only that to you?" Auron gets a Feeling that he is going to be used by this smug prick. "Find someone else to be your pet!Laszlo I'm not my father I only bearing the curse of his name." Said Auron sounding as his normal self again but with a tone of anger in it, as he began to walk hastily out of the building heading back to the camp.
It was hard work sorting scrap, and even harder coating what seemed like a milion planks with a strange, non-smelling thick liquid. Hopefully however their experiment would work and the substance would make the new cottage more resistant to magic. Also, hopefully no one would test it. When he was done, he breathed a sigh of relief. Finally introducing himself to Basil, Julius felt like despite going limp, woodworking wasn't so bad. "Yeah, I'd love to come help out some more. My whole body aches but it was fun!" he said and gave an exhausted smile. "My schedule is full though so I'd have to come by on the weekends, if that's fine with you?"
Afterwards, when leaving the workshop, Julius thought about what class he had next... But then he realized it's weekend now and he didn't have any more classes. Maybe he could... Find Jenny somewhere? Yeah, that'd be cool. He pondered about going to weapon's class to see if anyone would want to practice with him but he shuddered at the thought of getting absolutely beaten down again.
Auron was frustrated and disappointed. I refuse to be treated like this again. No way I'm giving away my new freedom! -"Laszlo you are speaking to me as if I’m just property, a pet. Am I only that to you?" Auron could feel the rage boil within him. "Find someone else to be your lapdog, Laszlo! I am not my father, I only bear the curse that is my family name!" Before Laszlo could say anything else Auron turned around and walked out, followed by the mixed looks of everyone present int he room.
-"Will he be a problem?" -"Not necessarily, but this is sure more interesting than any other outcome."
-"Wait up, Auron! Wait!" Auron could hear Mildred shouting behind him. When he caught up he grabbed Auron's shoulder and turned him around. -"What do you want!?" Auron asked aggressively. -"You could've at least turned him down politely!" Mildred panted out flustered. -"Not when he speaks to me like that." -"I think you're not seeing the full picture here." -"I won't lower myself to someone else's schemes!" -"There are many strong wizards here at Lauzurus and a lot of enemies to make. Laszlo is not one you want to be on the wrong side of!" -"I'm not afraid." -"Don't you see? By declining him you basically just said 'I'm going to be a really bad guy and walk in my father's footsteps.'" Auron was just about to open his mouth and argue but stopped right in the middle of his breath. Perhaps I just did... "It's not too late to go back inside and change your mind Auron, because you didn't mean to say that right?" -"We're done talking here Mildred." Before Mildred had any more time to argue, Auron turned around and ran back to camp.
Julius was spent and tired when he walked through campus. It had been an exhausting day for both body and mind. He had politely declined the invitation to help out tomorrow as well even though it had been fun today. There were other things that had to be done while it is still weekend. When Julius got back the other boys were already there, huddled around the campfire. -"Welcome back Julius, you look tired." James greet him with a big smile. -"I am, but at least I've made sure that our house is going to be swell!" -"You didn't have to. You should get some rest with that wound, if you overwork yourself you'll end up like Desmond." James looked at Julius with concern. -"Bah! This is nothing! Back in Northwreck this is considered light work." -"It's great you are getting your house rebuilt and all, but I'm going to miss coming out here hanging out with you guys." Ted looks into the fire reminiscing. -"Nothing is stopping you from visiting us back at our cottage. We love to have you around, right guys?" James ask as he looks up at his other roommates. -"Of course! You're a good friend, Ted." Julius says with a wide smile as he lays down. -"Sure, why not." Auron says absently. The past events of the day had left him in a glum mood. -"Really? Thanks guys I... That makes me really happy!" Ted hugs an unsuspecting James, catching him off guard. -"Heh, don't mention it. We live in eighty one blue, come by any time." -"Okay! Well, it's getting late. I'll come by your new house tomorrow then!" Ted ran off with a joyful glee, leaving the three boys to get some sleep.
Sunday, 09:24 Location: Somewhere in the shallow woods
-"Get up Auron, it's time to go!" Auron could feel James kicking his butt. -"Murrrrr, where?" Auron asks drowsy as he sits up, rubbing his eyes. -"To the city of course, you told me you wanted to tag along." -"Oh, right. Give me a moment." Auron stood up quickly and brushed off his clothes before heading to the brook where he washed his face. "I'm finished, where are we going?" He asks when he get back. -"To the school entrance, there should be a carriage waiting for us." -"Alright, let's go then." Auron and James walked quickly through a still sleeping campus. The few students that could be seen were also on their way to the school entrance. When they got there they saw the many carriages lined up on the school's front lawn. James picked one of the equipages in the middle, an open wagon with a spotted white horse. -"Where are we going children?" The coachman asked joyfully. -"To Frontier city and back." James state as he climbs on board. -"Well that would be thirty copper there and thirty copper back, with student discount of course." Without any complaining the two boys exchanged a silver each, getting forty coppers back each. "Thank you very much, off we go!" The coachman gave the reins a good whip and the wagon jerked after as the horse began to move.
The carriage rode through the tranquil forest along the bumpy small paths before they finally reached the iconic Swedian, green rolling hills and big wide fields. Even though autumn was on its way the flowers bloomed vividly, creating blue waving fields like the ocean or bright pastures yellow like the sun. The trip had been silent thus far, in an almost awkward way. James were the one to finally break the silence. -"So how was it growing up?" -"Excuse me?" Auron asked a bit resentful. -"You know, with your father, probably the most despised person in the country." Auron didn't know if he should answer him or not. Sure, they were roommates. But Auron couldn't really consider him much of a friend after the way James treated him. Perhaps this was his way to get to know Auron better?
The sun shone brightly on top of the heaven. Julius was walking down campus slowly with his sword bouncing lightly on his shoulder while thinking deeply. So where can I found someone willing to practice fighting with me? There are no classes today, not that I'm in a mood to get my ass kicked by him again. I don't know anyone else that practices weapons in my classes. I guess I remember some faces from weapons class but where do I find them? As Julius keep walking he spots a familiar face leaning against one of the many cottages around. -"Hey, Marcus! Care to help me out?" Julius shouts happily as he runs up to the silver haired boy. -"Hey there Julius, what's up pal?" -"You know your way around here right? Do you know anyone that might want to help me practice with weapons?" -"It's true I know a lot of people, let me think. Hmm..." The junior rubbed his chin as he thought hard. "You could try Paula I guess, if you don't mind your women hot headed." -"Where can I find her?" Julius ask with new gained spirit. -"Your best bet would be her cottage, forty nine red. Oh, and tell her Victor sent you, and that he finds the birthmark on her butt cute." -"Why would I-" -"Don't worry about it, just do it. Off you go now, shoo shoo!" Marcus urged Julius as he pushed him in the right direction.
It took a bit of asking and looking around but eventually Julius found Paula's cottage somewhere in the center of campus. Nervously Julius stepped up on her porch and knocked on the door. Opening the door was a tanned older girl with dark hair tied in a pony tail on the left side of her head. She had painted her lips blue and wore blue shorts and a thick white shirt strapped to her with small belts tied around her waist and arms. -"Are you Paula?" Julius asked with confidence. -"Yes, who's asking?" -"I'm Julius, I'm looking for someone to help me practice with weapons. Uhm, Victor sent me." -"Did he now?" She asks skeptically. -"Ye, he asked me to tell you he finds the birthmark on your... butt... cute..." Julius had the urge to just run away but he forced himself to stay. The girl in front of him turned visibly red as he stared at Julius who could feel the sweat running down his neck. -"Ehm... Mhm, give me a moment." Paula slammed the door shut in front of Julius. While Julius waited he was sure he could hear intensive squeeing and giggling inside the cottage. When Paula opened the door again she was carrying a large, two handed mace of some sort. the hammer was made out of wood and the head stretched down along the top of the shaft with rough metal and wooden spikes, though it looked like they were meant to maul rather than pierce. -"So you'll help me?" Julius asked with a hopeful tone. -"I will, on one condition." She demonstratively hold up her finger. -"Name it!" How bad could it be? Never mind, it's Lauzurus we're talking about... -"You'd owe me a favour." -"What kind of favour are we talking about here?" Julius said now worried. -"Oh, you know, a favour. When I need it I'll let you know." She said teasingly." Oh boy, that could mean all sorts of trouble down the line... But maybe it ain't so bad?
Stretching his arms and back Bob step out of the coach. It had been a long and bumpy trip, but manageable thanks to the beautiful scenery. Putting down his bags on the ground Bob put his arms on his hips and look around with a big smile. -"What a beautiful place! The green roofs of the forest, the serene air that fills this place, just lovely." Bob says to himself as he breathes in the warm late summer air. Can't say the same thing about the school building though. But with a little colour the thing could look less boring! -"You are Bob Rosethorn I assume?" An old man in a worn and patched orange robe approach the chubby boy. -"That's me!" He responds with a gleeful voice. -"Very good. Welcome to Lauzurs, here is your house key and a pamphlet with useful information. Class begins at eight tomorrow morning, don't be late. If there are any further questions you'll find me at my office tomorrow. Good luck!" And with that the old man walks away in the direction of the school. "Oh, and campus is that way." He stops and point in the direction of the living quarters before he continued. Guess introductions aren't a big thing around here. Looks like I live in cottage eighty one according to this note on the key. Well, I guess I'm in no hurry to get there if there is anything else that catches my attention.
Auron
(Open Choice)
*Popularity decreased.* *Money were spent.*
Name: Auron Zecane Age: 13 Gender: Man Race: Swedian
Uses magic to identify properties and aspects of plant-life.
-Revitalizing Spring-
Ritual Element: Nature - Nature Difficulty: Very Hard Level: 0 (Unperformed)
Brings natural life to infertile, dead or barren land in a chosen area close to the ritual. Depending on the strength and implementation of the ritual the new life might spread or die.
Tools: A bowl, pestle and mortar Catalyst: The blood of a hare
Components per cubic meter of land 1 liter of fresh stream water 4 hectograms of a wizards feces 1 palm of freshly grind grains 1 pinch of living earth worms 2 pinches of grass 1 palm of dandelion buds
