@Leslie Hall
Ethel fidgeted nervously when she found Rosalina peering into her eyes. She wasn't one who liked the spotlight nor searched it out, in fact she would actively go out of her way to avoid such a thing. Which was why Sora was good to have around; if Ethel gathered too much attention he would take it away. Whether it be through some flashy show off move or by simply removing the person(s) he certainly could gain others attention quite quickly and unlike Ethel thrived off of it.
Ethel didn't seem to take notice of the concern or disgust that Rosalina might've been showing. She was never good with reading people, let alone when she was trying to avoid eye contact with the woman. Ethel just needed to remain calm, that's what Mai and Sora told her if she found herself alone.
Sure she wasn't alone, but Rosalina was making Ethel nervous. Not by anything she said or did, rather by her own thoughts. Her heart was in her mouth momentarily when Rosalina mentioned a strong magical presence from Ethel however. That moment was also accompanied by Ethel's hand suddenly 'blurring' however it only lasted a second at most before Ethel regained control.
"Why? 'Cause Sora teaches Ethel. Many things Ethel didn't know before." Ethel was still a little nervous in response to Rosalina's unasked question. Though she had stated she wanted to know why Sora was associated with Ethel, however how Ethel phrased her response might make Rosalina worry even more.
Ethel bite back what she was going to add about Sora helping Ethel keep her magic in check, as she didn't want Rosalina asking too many questions about the nature of her magic. Ethel was a terrible liar and was afraid of what Rosalina might do with such information, though her worries were completely unfounded but Ethel didn't know that.
Ethel fell into stride behind Rosalina, though she struggled to keep pace with the taller woman. She didn't complain though, she simply had shorter legs and knew it.

"Mage...Ethel has never been called a mage before. Ethel's been called many a thing. 'Monster', 'freak', Ethel, 'abomination'. But not mage." Ethel commented softly as she touched the back of her left hand softly. She was wearing gloves so Rosalina wouldn't be able to see it, but there were two intricate sealing magic circles on both the back of Ethel's left hand and on Ethel's left palm.
They had been put on by Sora to help suppress the immense magical presence that was Ethel. It also helped as a medium to control her magic though, as she had yet to fully master it. In fact was probably nowhere near mastering it yet.
It was at this moment that a furry head popped up next to Ethel. It was the Chu she had received (bought) from Verrick the previous day. The Chu had been hidden in her hood the entire time since leaving the hotel and had just woken up from a nice little snooze.
It yawned widely and let out a soft 'Chu' before nuzzling softly against Ethel's face causing the younger mage to smile slightly. It was at this moment now that something seemed to tweak in Ethel's mind.
"....Sora ran cause of Chu." Ethel mumbled in realisation. It all made sense now. Chu was like the ultimate adorable fluffy crossbreed of a variety of cute fluffy animals, such as rabbits and cats.

(Link to the description of Chu's http://www.roleplayerguild.com/posts/3784104)
And as such someone as petrified as cats as Sora was, it made perfect sense for him to have fleed from the adorable creature. He had done the same thing yesterday when Verrick had made the Chu as well, completely abandoning her with a strange man she had only just met. Even though Verrick was a pretty nice bloke....she hoped his training mission would go well.

"Actually I had other business to attend to squirt." Sora seemed to materialise out of thin air beside of them and had slipped his hand under Ethel's hood to do what he just loved to do; ruffle her soft milky blue hair.
Ethel on the other hand seemed quite content with the ruffling of her hair. Even frowning slightly when Sora stopped and turned his attention to Rosalina with a raised eyebrow.
"Oh? Rosalina Idwal? From the Magic Council? What business would you have with my disciple here? If I knew you were here I would've cleaned up first." If Rosalina paid attention to Sora she would notice that his usual attire was in somewhat of a disrepairs. It almost looked like he had walked straight out of a fight, his clothes were tattered and dirty, his right sleeve was missing and he was covered in scratches and dirt. Despite that he still had an air of supreme confidence and authority about him.
He wasn't a man to be trifled with.
"Although you're just the woman I wanted to talk to."



@Roseletta@Zarkun
"Umm ok...don't trip and die." Cody watched as Amaya and Cecilia made their way out of the stands. He wasn't going to lie, he wasn't sure why she had bothered coming along if she was just going to immediately leave. If she was that tired she would've been far better off just staying at the hotel and sleeping.
He was also unsure what she meant by don't kill anyone. Why would he do that? Maybe she had directed it towards Joshua?
Who knows. He wasn't too sure about letting her go back to the hotel by herself but decided against going with her for the simple matter of it would probably just drag her into more trouble than she had already had on her plate. As James said he seemed to be a magnet for trouble, so just staying put at the arena was probably the best for himself.
What kind of trouble could he possibly get into here after all? He was surrounded by his guildmates after all.
So instead he sat back and watched the final event unfold. Or at least what actually happened. The event was just begining to get interesting, besides the giant flying fortress of course, when the announcer stated that the games were to be postponed indefinitely. What the heck?

When Damian landed on top of the tower, just as he'd hoped, no one was there. However, he couldn't help but wonder what the sudden light was for as he pulled the Hercules Blades free. He realized it about a second later as the first explosion shook the tower. Time slowed for the swordsman as he tried to find a way to lessen the damage he'd take, but the best he could come up with as the explosions reached him was a Blade Shield, and he already knew it wouldn't hold. His Blade Shields were good for stopping other swords, hammers, axes, even bone spears as he'd recently discovered, but for the life of him were useless against anything that caused big, fiery booms. As the explosion reached him, he shifted so his right shoulder, which bore the shield right then, faced the explosion. The shield held for a second, which gave the Blade of Phoenix Wing some hope, and then shattered less than a second later. Shit. Without anything between him and the explosion, his world became searing heat and a bright white light.

The force sent him flying back up into the air and a piece of the rubble caught the young man in the head, knocking him unconscious for most of his ascension. If one were to look towards the top of the tower, they would see a streak of black smoke ascend several hundred feet into the air, already surpassing the height at which he'd begun his mad dive to force Frenzy Plant off the top of their tower. It was during this time that a wave of Negation Magic passed over the city, causing all magic to cease functioning and Damian regained consciousness. The upside of his position, as he hung in the air for a couple of seconds, was he got a rather amazing view of the city. He enjoyed for all of the second that it took for gravity to kick in. "Shit, shit, shit, shit, SHIT!" He tried, unsuccessfully, to summon a Striker Blade to land on at a much safer distance the the roughly half mile to a mile drop he had ahead of him. Unfortunately, the negation magic wouldn't allow it and he plummeted like a stone back towards the ground. He kept trying to summon the blade while also trying to think of a non-magical solution to the dilemma he now faced.

A spark of magic appeared as the ground got closer, but he still couldn't get the blade until he had about ninety feet left, when suddenly his Ares Blades formed and a Striker Blade appeared, which did little more than redirect his fall from perfectly vertical to a more angled one and sent him tumbling through several walls of an empty building, eventually coming to rest on the street on the other side. He laid there for several moments, a haze of pain and relief all he could feel, before he attempted to sit up, a movement he immediately regretted as his side screamed out in pain. Laying back down, he gingerly counted the broken ribs, which came out to four. And a broken arm, at least three cracked ribs, bruised body, and a cracked lower leg bone. All in all, I'm alive. He attempted a chuckle at his own joke and immediately regretted it, his side screaming in agony.

Managing to stand up after several tries, he summoned a Hercules Blade to aid him in walking and began the trek back to the stadium, moving carefully while also trying to be quick. So there was no winner huh? Guess it's not that bad. But I also have to wonder what would have caused the Royal Family to personally step in and stop them. Suppose I could always ask one of the servants at the ball tonight. Lord knows that if there's gossip to be had, that's where you'll find it. Still, the lack of a winner didn't bother Damian at all, both because he was fairly sure he'd have been laying in that street for a long time and because he hated the thought of missing out on seeing what everyone brought to the table because of laying in the street.

As he limped along, he spotted Penny descending down towards a street further ahead and frowned, wondering when she'd gotten so far ahead. Then he remembered she could fly and let it go, deciding it wasn't worth the headache of trying to figure how much he'd missed during both his rapid climb and fall after that explosion. Some would say he should have been angry with Frenzy Plant for sending him sky high mere moments before all magic became unusable, but he knew better. None of them had anticipated such a large scale negation spell, if any, and he hadn't died from it either, so there was no need to be cross. After several minutes, he find his way to the entrance of the Stadium where he saw Tough Love and Frenzy Plant. Noticing that two of their members were down, he frowned, unsure of what had happened while he'd been forced to play aerial recon for Josh. Still, he made his way to the Phoenix Wing symbol, where he summoned a Striker Blade to sit on while he waited for the rest of his team, who he had avoided in order to avoid babying from his girlfriend. Catching Zander's eye, he gave the other man a nod. Not a nod of greeting, but a nod of respect, from one strategist to another. He was then seized in a fit of painful coughing, his broken ribs perilously close to puncturing the lungs they had protected. "Ow..."



When the magic in the tower suddenly all vanished, Hunter was the first to shift focus in preparation to counter an attack from Hyun. However, she seemed just as confused as the Dragon Fang members, and after leaving a threat hanging in the air, one that the Dragon Slayer dared her to try and carry through with, disappeared outside the tower. While the three from Dragon Fang regrouped, Ammy already making Jake lift his arm so she could see the damage done, the tower lowered to the ground and Hyun and Indigo departed, the former helping the latter. That left the three Dragon Fang mages to leave and return to the stadium on their own, but not before Hunter spoke up. "Man, never met a group of people with a bigger stick up their ass. How's a guild like them still getting members?" Jake, in return as the trio walked through the city to find Zephyr and Jackie, shook his head.

"Pride isn't a horrible thing. Hell, we're all proud of our guild, same as Phoenix Wing is proud of theirs. But, I will say too much pride is dangerous. Frenzy Plant's done a lot to earn their pride, but to say that they won't feel some kind of consequences for it some day is foolish. But for the time being-" Ammy cut him off, finishing his sentence.

"We should try to get along with them. This year's Games didn't bring out the best in people like I'm sure the Royal Family had hoped. Phoenix Wing unintentionally sold themselves to be haughty and arrogant, Frenzy Plant prideful and rigid, ourselves just a slight disorganized, and so on and so forth with each guild. Pirate Lord and Tough Love will see member increases just for competing, as will Ryder's Blade." She opened her mouth to continue but Hunter held up a finger.

"Jesus you guys over analyze. A simple 'I don't know' would have worked too." Jake chuckles and Ammy smiles softly before returning to searching for their guild mates.

@Lmpkio

"Gamble"

Just like they started they also ended pretty quickly as well. They weren't even that far into the free for all before the announcement sounded. Which in turn set off everyone else in both positive and negative ways, either way he flinched a bit at all the booing going on around him. He understood where they were coming from though, he was using the games as a way to see which guild was right for him and to so suddenly have it ended at the very last day. Well needless to say it would leave a sour taste in a lot of peoples mouths. The bright side is whichever mages joined any of these guilds, they would technically be joining the winning team.

His attention however jerked to this woman who bumped his shoulder, with an annoyed look on her face. She was the one complaining at full volume right next to him. She then tried to get him to agree that the ending was bullshit, and asked if he knew why. This resulted in a look that wasn't sure if she was serious or not. Yet he tried to analyze the situation. "Well..." He started speaking as he pointed at the royal family. "They probably had a hand in the conclusion. As for how it ended, I can agree it was very.... anticlimactic. Mostly since the ticket for the games and to stay in the city wasn't exactly very cheap."

However in the end he would shrug. "Yet I can only speculate on why it ended so quickly, mostly at the last day. It may very well be reasons we will never know. Which guild did you want to win anyway miss?" Gamble asked as he looked at the guild members arriving one by one. One from Pirate Lord looking like they won a grand prize only to be told it was a prank.

@Zarkun@Caits@CirusArvennicus

NOLAN

"Tch, so this is how the games end? What a load of shit." Nolan grumbled bitterly as flew back to the stadium. When he arrived, he hovered down slowly to Phoenix Wing's section of the battle ground and folded his arms. He was not making any attempt in hiding his discontent with the decision to end the games like this, but there was no used in wasting his energy to protest.

Penny had appeared by Trinity and him and criticized him for his harsh words towards her were met with his cold eyes. He held himself back from saying anything else and turned around to leave though he saw that Damian had arrived completely battered up. For once in his life he actually was worried for the Blade of Phoenix Wing just from the condition that man was in. "By the gods above Damian how are you still alive? Need any-"

Nolan watched Penny lean on Trinity as she had finally ran out of magic. It looked like a lot of them didn't get out as lucky as Nolan and Trinity had. Still, to be perfectly honest Nolan still wasn't in perfect shape after the amount of stress his body went through just to maintain God Force for five minutes. If the battle had gone on any longer he didn't doubt that his body would've worn down quickly, hence why he wanted to take Frenzy Plant down so quickly.

"So what now? Do we just go home? That's it?" Nolan scratched his head while he asked his team members.

@t2wave@Burthstone
DALTON

"Phoenix Magic? Ya mean those giant flaming turkeys?" The image of a massive turkey that was literally breathing fire popped in his mind. Dalton wasn't exactly the smartest nor was he the most well informed Exceed to have ever existed. In fact, it would be easy to say that he was actually an idiot though this idiot was feeling extra cautious when approached by Mayt. Dalton flew in front of Ariel protectively. Considering how she was kidnapped by Tidius only recently, he wasn't taking any risks with this guy. "Who are ya"

Dalton glanced towards the lacrima screen and saw that the games were over now despite the mages were stil ready to go. What the heck was going on?

@Caits
FERRIS

"What's happening on screen is nothing short of a full blown war. It's a chaotic battle with all of the top guilds of Fiore fighting for supremacy. They are no longer holding back and, wait was that Penny from Phoenix Wing healing mages from Tough Love? I can't imagine that the mages in her team are going to be happy about that." Ferris arched his brow and leaned back in his seat wondering why someone on the enemy team would help them?

Then a crash roared from the stadium followed by the appearance of King Howard and Queen Liana, regal as always."Whatever it is, it must be important for them to show up personally! How often are we graced with the appearance of our very royal famil-" He stopped mid-sentence with Sheldon's announcement. "Wait what just happened? The games are suddenly over just like that? What did they just tell our games master?" Ferris was visibly disappointed and it translated into his tone with this decision. With what was going on, he expected a grand finish, but this left an empty feeling in his gut.

@Raijinslayer@Zarkun

"Oh yeaaaah, I should've mentioned that Master is afraid of cats." Zev bursted into laughter, his arms wrapped around his stomach as he continued laughing. A-I'm sorry about that kid. I just couldn't resist seeing that titan of man near piss himself from fear! Oh god my sides!" He spoke in between gasps of laughter and held his hand up to Ezekiel to tell him that he would need to a minute to calm down.

After he had finally stopped laughing and sat down where Jake Goran was sitting before. "You're good to join kid. Just sit down and enjoy the show. We'll make it official tomorrow so don't sweat about it." He looked up and what caught him off guard was the sudden arrival of the royal family, the very people he used to work for as their top spy. He had nothing against them though being one of their spies was perhaps much more dangerous than his current occupation, which is why he had to leave them to begin with when it was just him and his daughter.

"I hope you don't have explain to you who they are, kid. Even people in the sticks would know their faces." Zev leaned back in his seat, his gaze upon the royal family. "Haven't seen them make a public appearance like this for awhile. It must be big for them to stop the games. They're probably afraid that other countries will catch wind of how strong our mages really are after Fiore became a weak country for so long." Despite Zev looking like sleezy, skirt chasing man, he was actually a very intelligent and manipulative man. He had to be when he had to collect information for the governent and during his time as The Broker.

"No, that's not it" Jamie said, having walked down from the stand, she held out a lacrima to Penny, who blinked and took it, immediately magic infused her, and grateful she pushed of from Trinity, turning her attention to Damian, she was too tired to, both energy way, mentally and physically, to do much babying. Yet she radiated concern, worry and yes, a little bit of stern. She doubted Damian could look much worse if the whole city had fallen on him-well that would probably have left nothing but a smear. Her thoughts were so muddled. She hadn't realised just how much she had missed him. If it had been anyone else, Penny figured they wouldn't be walking.

"Damian" She was well aware that even now, with the event over, they needed to maintain an image. Not that she really cared about that. Still, she reframed from mollycoddling. Healers began to swarm the arena, and at once, Penny snagged one, noting the mark that signified that they weren't just trained in healing, but had healing magic. That form of magic was rare these days, and she wasn't suprised that they were here at the games. "At least stop him from puncturing his lungs, I rather like him alive"

"We're only to heal life threat-"

"So not having any lung function isn't life threatening? I'll be sure to take that up with the creator. Sorry sir, we don't need to breath, some healer decided that wasn't life threatening" The healer paled, approaching Damian. She felt bad for the way she had spoken, and apologised. She could feel her heart beating too fast, the residue Phoenix Magic almost seeming to be apart of her very blood, she still felt like she might faint at anymoment, even with the energy from the lacrima Master Jamie had given her.

Jamie gave a soft sigh, and said "The ball is still going ahead, but I understand if you all aren't up for it. You maybe excused from it. I want you all to go have something to eat, and sleep a bit. No magic for at least a few hours. I mean it, if I find you have used magic at all within the next two hours, I will be very mad" Jamie couldn't seem to be able to keep the motherly tone from her voice.

---

"Shhhh" Jessie said, narrowing her eyes as she replayed the lacrima vision, zooming right in on Games Master Sheldon, and their king and Queen. She flicked the magical mic off, ending the charm magic, and kept her gaze on the Queen's face. She turned to Ferris after it had played out, "I think the Queen is worried about war. Either way, the order came from her. I guess we still have the ball to look forward to. And" She said enthaustically, "It means we can talk with the guild masters and see which guild will be the best fit"

@Zarkun@CirusArvennicus@Joshua Tamashii@hatakekuro

Trinity took a moment before she picked herself up and brushed herself off. She could still feel the warm licks of fire... Ah, but she should get back to the Arena, like everyone else. She'd lost her energy spheres in the fall, though. She had her boots, and her boosters had broken, the shards already disintegrated.

It didn't take her too long to catch up with her guildmates at the Arena, even so. She pouted a little bit when Jamie said no magic, but "I guess two hours isn't so bad.. What's this about a ball?" Oooh, she could get behind that. And she would get a chance to show off her artsy side by borrowing the stage from whatever musicians they hired to play. "I'll have to get all my instruments tuned in."

It was good Penny was able to get a medic for Damian so quickly. He looked like he was in pretty rough shape, but he was going to get the attention he needed, so she wouldn't worry herself.

She should worry about herself a little. With the adrenaline fading, Trinity was beginning to feel very sleepy. "Mmn... I'm gonna have to nap before the ball, too."

By the time the others arrived, Sanders had already been waiting, seated and with fingers folded into a tent, for ten minutes. They came in two groups of two, pushing through the heavy curtain that separated the dimly-lit back room of the bar from the cozy main building. Upon entering, they found the master of Frenzy Plant at the far end of a long table, flanked on either side by an individual standing perfectly at attention. A more detail-oriented person might have known the names that belonged to those guards: Joakim Fortinbras and Jane Putcher, each clothed in the uniform jacket made iconic only hours ago in the brief but furious free-for-all. What the newcomers couldn't tell was that both were almost as tired as their General from the journey back to Fiore's capital from the remote town of Belka. To that end they leaned against the wall at their backs, but allowed no other vestige of exhaustion to seep through. In this moment, after all, appearances were quintessential.

After arriving, the four individuals seated themselves around the table. To Sanders' right sat a stern-faced fellow with short, croppy dark green hair and an air of nonchalance—the 'Pirate King', Salem Monroe. Next to him was a young man with long blonde hair and a flowing forest-green cloak that settled across his broad shoulders. Frenzy Plant's master knew him to be Belial Grimmond, and the mellow attitude he gave off hid a barb of suspicion. Across the table, in chairs next to one another, the two masters of Tough Love placed themselves side by side. Henrik Crane and Morgan de Soto stood taller than average, and their respective years of police work in dangerous inner cities left both uniquely scarred. Sleek mechanical augmentations dotted their bodies, but something far greater than the ambiance of electricity surrounded them; one could tell at a glance that the albino man and the darkly-complexioned, red-haired woman were madly in love. Now, however, they regarded Sanders with seriousness.

He began forthwith. ”Good afternoon. I am pleased to introduce myself as Cormorant Sanders, seventy years young, and the humble leader of Frenzy Plant. I have asked you to join me for lunch here today because, after coming in late this morning and receiving the reports on the Games, I had an idea.” He gestured to the table. Wonderment abounded as everyone discovered that a feast existed where none had before. The pivotal members of Pirate Lord seemed more amused than impressed, and even the leaders of Tough Love, being nonmagical themselves, were hardly taken aback. Sanders continued. ”Please, help yourself as I speak. Let us not stand on ceremony.”

Elbows on the table, he crossed his arms. A note of confidentiality entered his voice. ”So here's the 'scoop'. The Grand Magic Games draw to a close with no winner, but the crowds know who won in their hearts. My guild, Frenzy Plant, topped the charts again and again; if not in points, then certainly in drama and style. Meanwhile...where's all the talk about Pirate Lord and Tough Love? Aren't people impressed with the little phoenix, Merlina? Where's all the applause for Evangeline? It's a shame. So I wanted to make sure there were no hard feelings. And it got me to thinking about the Games themselves. Not a single Jewel of that huge prize is going somewhere, but fame is a prize in and of itself. Wizards, and even ordinary people seeking employment, are flocking to the biggest, baddest guilds. Since the start of the Games, I have received...” From beneath the table, he produced a small stack of papers, and plopped them on the table. The guests paused as the documents hit the wood. ”Fourteen applications. Several of them, such as Private Riona, Corporal Rune, and Private Flint, are already part of my guild. I can only assume they'll continue to roll in, while your guilds, even though you achieved he colossal feat of qualifying for the games, get nothing. It's just. Not. Fair.”

The General gingerly picked up a fork, pierced an olive sitting on his plate, and ate it. He took his time chewing, making sure to get every morsel of flavor. Then he clasped his hands. ”So here's my proposition. Pirate Lord...and Tough Love...shall disappear. But wait, wait a moment! Nothing much is changing. Just that your guilds will be subsumed by Frenzy Plant; you will join us. Think about it! Two fledgling guilds, barely enough resources or clients to maintain yourselves, fall to the bottom of the barrel at the Games. Attending the Games isn't a cheap affair. The hotel rooms alone...fwah! I'll bet you were counting on some compensation from the Games for showing up and doing alright. Alas, the wheel of fate has left you behind...but Frenzy Plant hasn't. People will not join you or come to you for jobs because they don't know your names, and your skills are unrefined. You lack organization and discipline. Enlisting in Frenzy Plant will solve all of your problems.”

He positioned himself facing the representatives of Pirate Lord. ”Consider this, too. Frenzy Plant is not ignorant to the workings of smaller guilds. We know your quest: to find the demons that cursed you and end their miserable existences once and for all. Join us, and your mission is our mission. When the opportunity presents itself, the full power of Frenzy Plant will stand with you, just as it will for Hyun Sasithom when she decides that it's time to reclaim her kingdom.” Sanders gave a slight smile. It held compassion and understanding—perhaps too much understanding. He spoke of the secret mission of Pirate Lord as it was only the tip of the iceberg.

Salem noticed this, and grew wary. After swallowing a piece of beef, he crossed his arms and said, “Sounds like a pretty great deal, mister. But what's the catch? Maybe we don't care about 'organization and discipline'. Maybe we like being small-time. We're not unrefined...I can tell you that. Our business is our own. What makes you think we want to throw in our lot with a bunch of army stiffs like you?” He tossed his fork on the table, and the clink pierced an otherwise dead silence.

Sanders tilted his head slightly, and heaved a deep breath before shrugging. A moment passed before he replied, his voice oddly calm. ”Are you aware of the Frenzy Plant policy on Slayers, Mr. Monroe?

The silence grew thick, and after a second, the old man continued. ”History tells us that Slayers, despite being powerful, are doomed to become what they seek to kill. Among Slayer magics, Devil Slayers are particularly virulent. In fact, we find demons as a whole to be especially...repugnant. We have a demon-possessed boy in our care now. We hope to free him from his affliction so that we might exterminate the parasite once and for all. Still, it's a better situation than Devil Slayers. You can never tell when one's turned wrong. First it seems as if they have control over themselves, then they start...killing people.” A horrified expression appeared on his face. ”Eating them. Expunging the magic from their bodies and feasting on what remains. The stuff of nightmares. That is why the Frenzy Plant policy on Slayers is a very...ah, how shoul I put it? Binary one.” The eyes of the two men of Pirate Lord were darker than night. Sanders rested his head in his hands. ”We want what's best for you, gentlemen. For the world. That's why we do what we do. The reward for cooperation is immense. Steadfast allies, war-forged friends, income, renown, meaning in life, protection, self-betterment...I can't fathom why you'd say no!”

He leaned back in his chair, wearing a warm smile. He glanced at everyone present in turn, his sincerity writ upon his wrinkled features. ”Look. This isn't some conspiracy or evil scheme. I'm not some conniving trickster or double-dealing psychopath. I'm a man of the law—and an employer offering the best chance of your lifetime: the chance to be a part of the greatest guild in Fiore and beyond, and to do what's right. If you want to do right by your members, this is the plan for you.”

Some strategists turned to chess to visualize their battlefields. To Sanders, the act seemed a bit cliché. Like a professional poker player, he studied their faces. Everyone, from their knowledge of Frenzy Plant, could substantiate his promises. As a guild, and especially as an army, Frenzy Plant lived big. But both sets of guild representatives had their doubts. Tough Love's leaders looked unnerved, while the men of Pirate Lord bore the appearances of men balancing guilt, anger, reason, pride, and indeed their futures—all on a mirror's edge. If Sanders had to describe the situation, he would compare it to someone stacking weights on both sides of a judge's scale. The balance was almost perfect; the result could go either way. The slightest addition to either side might cause it to fall. Frenzy Plant's General had played the odds all his life, but he was not a gambling man. He never made a bet he couldn't win. A slight reverberation entered his voice as he played his final card. ”I'm an old man, folks. After my travels, I would like nothing better than an afternoon nap. So if you wouldn't mind, I would like your decisions now. It's not binding, so you know. We'll go over the details later. All I want is: are you interested? A simple 'yes' or 'no.'"

Henrik and Morgan looked at one another. So did Soren and Belial. Sanders watched them all. Tough Love's leaders were the first to look his way with resolution in their eyes. ”Yes,” Morgan told him. ”We're still a bit confused, but this is too good of a chance to pass up. To be honest, even if we're a close-knit bunch, we're a bunch of losers. The Games proved it. We need some winners to set us straight.”

Next, Sanders turned his expectant gaze on Salem. With visible reluctance, the Pirate King gave a nod. Sanders beamed. ”Splendid! It may be a bit early, but I am glad to be the first one to call you: comrades. I will look forward getting to know you. We'll be in touch.” He rose, and gave a bow. The meeting was over. Accompanied by his subordinates, Sanders moved out into the main area, then toward his room on the second floor. He stopped in the stairs to observe the backs of his guests as they left the Sleeping Bear. The house, he thought, always wins.

Damian didn't protest as the healer attended to his broken ribs and arm, even adjusting so she could and informing her of his leg. But after a few seconds, he waved her off. "Go on now, help some others. This isn't anything that I can't heal from with time." The healer looked like she was about to argue, but decided against it, shuffling off to check in on the others. After gingerly testing the arm that had been broken and taking a few test breaths, he dismissed the Striker Blade after standing, but still used his Hercules Blade to help support his weight while he tested the leg.

"No promises there, Master Jamie. Need to go pick up a few things quickly and magic speeds that up." He holds up a hand. "No, I don't plan on doing anything insane. But we should all get back to the hotel. I need to knock out the dings in this armor and shower." He didn't bother mentioning the specifics of what he needed to pick up, but once the others were ready, he lead the way out of the stadium towards the hotel.




Jane listened to Isabella as she spoke, wondering why she left if performing meant that much to her. But in the end, she decided not to ask and instead gave her own input. "Never really been one for the limelight myself, but I always enjoy a good show. I remember passing through Hargeon Town with my parents one time, before news reached the local Rune Knights we were in the area, we got to watch a troupe of jugglers perform. It was amazing." She smiled fondly at the memory, then teared up a little. "Keep forgetting that's all I have of mom and dad. Is the memories..."




After finding Jackie and Zephyr, the mages of Dragon Fang had returned to the Stadium briefly before Jake lead them out again, back towards the hotel. Hunter bunched the Takeover mage in the arm lightly. "So you get to knock any heads while we were in the tower or did the other guilds all hide while the big three went at it?" Ammy frowned slightly and looked at the Dragon Slayer.

"Did you really just call Phoenix Wing, Dragon Fang, and Frenzy Plant the Big Three?" Hunter shrugged and returned to waiting for Zephyr's answer.

Mayt sighed when Dalton jumped in front of Ariel, and put his free hand to his mouth. After a moment he'd pull his hand away, pulling his glove off with his teeth, and showing the Phoenix Wing guild mark on the back of it. He gripped the glove in his hand before explaining. "I'm Mayt Marris, S-Class wizard of Phoenix Wing," his voice was almost amused. "Now, who are you? I must admit, I've missed some recent events," he would wave the arm that was in a cast to indicate the kind of things he's been up to, though a broken arm doesn't really denote an exploding train.

At the strange announcement about the games behind him, which Mayt would turn just enough to catch the end of, he would sigh heavily. "Damn, I just got back to Crocus too," looking back to the two in front of him, he'd give them a lame smile before starting to try to work his glove back on his hand with his mouth.

@t2wave@hatakekuro

---

---

Isabella was absolutely ecstatic when she heard that Jane was an admirer of the performing arts. She had to fight the urge to clap her hands together and fall into another fit of giggling. She wasn't doing a very good job. She knew that her and Jane would have to find some common ground eventually. Though the mood dampened when Jane made the comment about her parents.

Instinctively Isabella reached out her hand and held onto Jane's, her mouth open as if she was trying to find the right words to comfort her friend. She couldn't. The relationship Jane had with her parents was something Isabella had never experienced. Her parents were demanding narcissists who only used her to further their own careers as performers. She hated them. Isabella gently rubbed her thumb against the palm of Jane's hand, massaging it whilst she offered a small, genuine smile.

"I'm not very good at juggling, but maybe sometime I could perform for you?" Isabella wanted to cry. Not only because Jane had allowed her to share in her mourning, but also because she felt absolutely feeble. Being powerless was not something she enjoyed, but Isabella was just confused as to how to handle this situation. Thankfully, the Viewing Lacrima inside the lobby broadcast the results of the final event. Isabella stood up, hoping to get a better look at what was happening. Through the crowds of people surrounding the lacrima, she was able to clearly make out the visage of two very regal figures. The King and Queen of Fiore. By their order, the event had been cancelled.

"Well, that's a shame." Pausing for a moment, Isabella turned to Jane with a sudden smile. "Since we don't need to go watch anymore though, we should take this time to get ready for the ball! We're sure to dazzle everyone if we get a head start now!" Isabella was already going through the list of things she had intended to get done before attending tonight. Her outfit was sorted, but she still wanted to get her nails and hair done as well as put on her face for the evening. With all of their spare time, she was even considering a nice long trip to the spa. Isabella was practically beaming at the idea of such a day.

"Fuck a Legion Shit." came a calm monotone voice from the blonde, the trapped soul fiddling around the airship. A bunch of tools neatly tucked into a tool boxes that was sorted to what type they were. Lifting up some metal plates and banging them against some holes to cover them up and give a sort of repair.

"Twin, flame on." Edo-Karn instructed, her emotionless expression disappearing into one of pure joy and excitement as her Earthland counterpart took over, letting out a gleeful cheer at the prospect of lending his assistence to whatever his body guest was doing.

"Alrighty!" Karn chirped before breathing golden flames into the metal, melting it a bit before moving on to let it settle and burn into the rest. Clapping his hands together excitedly and gleefully, that soon ended as Edo-Karn resumed control, joyous emotions melting away into a expression of nothing. Just calm. Resuming her work, Edo-Karn moved on to the engine room and starting working the tools against that.

Airships of this land was a bit tricky, differently crafted, but it was a challenge. Plus it helped ease her mind better then anything else. Seeing the stadium was nice, for one time. Karn of course wanted to attend but Edo-Karn just moved on with other matters. Her soul was much stronger and able to forcibly take control of this body easily. Not that her Earthland counterpart really complained. Really, he just went with anything.

"Can I name the ship?!?! Pleeeeeeeease?!" Karn chirped inside their mind.

"Sure." Edo-Karn responded just as blunt and calm.

The ship Karn was working on, in particular, was rather odd. The power conduits from the engine ran all over the ship, and there was no clear means of interfacing with the ship on the bridge. There was, however, a matching pedistal in the engine room and the bridge. There was also a Holder Magic object kept near either pedistal. The pedistal itself was plain in design. The conduit material rose up to form a sizeable circle on one side.

The holster for the Holder Magic in the engine room was labeled, "Energy Maker".

@Silver Fox

"Then" Jamie said, her tone stern, "You can use teleportation Lacrimas. Look at yourself Damain. You may have been healed sligtly, but you look like one good attack will knock you over." Jamie gave a heavy sigh, knowing she couldn't stop Damian in what he wanted to do, but intent on making it easier.

---

Penny gave a soft sigh, reaching up to take off her cloak, she removed the clasp she'd used, slipping it in a pocket without looking at it, she folded the cloak up, battered as it now appeared, it had meant something.

She thought back on the emerald Phoenix, wondering if she should hunt the her down, but right then, Penny didn't feel like that. Drained, she followed after the others, troubed and silent. The end to the games seemed anti-climatic, and she wondered if they would be experiencing the fall out for that for a long time.

The games hadn't done what they should have. She had told Masahiko that such a display wouldn't bring about less fear of magic, but it appeared the magic council didn't consider that. Everywhere she looked, she saw faces that looked both scared, and excited, and her heart sank. She fell to the back of the group, feeling sick, and despite everything, still so very sad.

---

When they arrived back in Crocus, Gabriel sought out his brother, noting the end to the games, Leo following along behind him, glancing about constantly, and Gabriel had to wonder about the last time thespirit was here. Shaking his head, he stumbled along, searching, but not finding, his brother. Disturbed by that, Gabriel stood for a moment, wondering if he should find the Dragon Fang hotel. Maybe Michael was sick. That thought distressed him,

Seeing no other option, Gabriel trudged through the city, still weary from the recent events, and annoyed by Leo's constant chattering.

@Burthstone@hatakekuro
Flaming turkey? Well it seemed that Dalton didn't really have an idea what a phoenix was. Sure they were actually very rare but they were still a legend. Laughing lightly she shook her head. "Well it is a flaming bird, but quite a bit more majestic than that." Her explanation was cut short as the games ended abruptly. Confused for a moment she almost didn't notice Mayt approach. The stranger asked how she was. Hot really recognizing who was talking to her, Ariel took a step back even though he hadn't gotten that close. "Uh, I'm fine."

Then Dalton sprung to her defense. She seriously doubted how much he could do but she appreciated the gesture. Thankfully the man showed that he was in the guild, and an S-Class member at that. How had she missed this detail? Maybe he had been away on a job or something like was suggested Relaxing a Ariel laughed at herself a bit. "It's nice to meet you Mayt. Sorry for being a bit jumpy. I haven't had the greatest experience here in Crocus." She looked at his broken arm before answering the question. "I'm Ariel Gratas. Have you been out on a job since I've joined?

Trinity had followed the group of the arena, heeding Jamie's warning, herself, and feeling like she needed to rest, anyway. "Don't hurt yourself, Damian..." For the little bit of healing he allowed himself, he was acting very confident. Did he really have that much strength left? She could feel what was left of her own magical power, she really shouldn't try Making anything else until she got some rest. Even using her boots was straining her efforts, she'd gone back to simply walking from gliding along on them. Just holding them together was starting to get tiring. The shining, golden boots dissipate.

Penny fell behind their group, and Trinity dropped back after her. She looked around, like she saw Penny do earlier. The fear that surrounded them... was that bothering her? "What's wrong, Penny? These people lookin' at ya funny?" She didn't find too much humor in the joke, either. "... I have an idea. But I'm going to need more magic power to do it. I used a lot, blocking for you guys." She took another look around them, briefly. "The games were a fine idea, but I think they were too focused on... combat application and competition... for people really to really identify with magic. Don't you think? I can't seem to remember any appreciation for the arts, this week. I'm planning to perform at the ball, this evening, but... do you have any tips on how to regenerate magic quickly? _{A full orchestra is demanding...}"

Edo-Karn slightly clicked her tongue as she examined the contraptions. She spent the night mostly reading, trying to study this world and its so called magic. It was a lot of information to take in, and it wasn't information she was very fond of. Magic caused nothing but trouble in her world. Though it wasn't really magic itself, just people. Humanity was funny enough both predictable and unpredictable. Chaotic. One knew what to expect but wasn't quite sure just how far they were willing to go. Just about every one of them was like that. Disorderly, always tried to bend the rules, find some excuse to do so. Didn't matter if it was for the good or for the evil. Those were just delusions people came up with.

... She needed to get home. For everyone's sakes. The logical side of her demanded that she quickly finish what should of happened to her when she was ten. Death. Still, she clung viciously for life. It was quite annoying at points.

Focus. Focus. Focus.

"You Okay?" Earthland Karn asked within their mind, concern echoing within the voice.

"....I still need my medicine. Even when I'm not in my body. Funny how that works. Funny how I still need to 'fix' myself." Edo-Karn responded out loud, her voice the same calm as she continued to tinker with the engine. The voices had run silent, and that was a discouraging sign. Karn didn't particularly understand what his body guest was trying to say, just that she was still sick.

"Twin, describe magic to me." Edo-Karn spoke as she tweaked a screw with a wrench. Uncaring how their gloves were getting dirty.

"Oh! Well Magic is like... Um the embodiment of someone's physical spirit! And the more powerful your feelings, the more powerful it is! It takes a lot of concentration and your squishy brain to handle it properly though!" Karn echoed within their mind.

".... I see. So perhaps you can stop them similarly without killing them. Good to know." Edo-Karn mused mostly to herself. Perhaps she will have to try it on that man that seemed quite interested in this world's Karn. He was considered a criminal, so it should be fine. Course it could go wrong but hey, gotta learn by experience.

Glancing at the words 'Energy Maker' Edo-Karn ran this body's fingers against them.

"What's this magic?" she questioned.

"Oh that's kinda like Energy-Man's magic! Think Maker magic as like making and forming magic! Like Icecube's Ice Make! Just this one is with energy!" he chirped as he tried to explain.

Edo-Karn just gave a slight sigh and roll of the emerald eyes before continuing to work.

---

---

The short trip back to the hotel was filled with idle chatter between Marlene and Bullet. Even despite how exhausted she seemed, Marlene was able to walk at a steady pace. Phoenix Wing Mages really were built of sturdier stuff. Marlene's room was identical to Bullet's own room, though perhaps a bit more spacious. Having arrived late into the games, he and Isabella had to settle for whatever the manager could organise.
"Thanks for escorting me back to my room, Bullet." Caught off guard by her gratitude, Bullet's attention snapped straight from the interior design to Marlene. Within a few moments he had planted himself on a chair in the corner with a shrug.
"I figured some good company would help clear my head, s'all." He blushed, thinking about how he had seen Isabella and Jane together in the dining hall as he escorted Marlene up the stairs. He watched Marlene tune into the games via her Lacrima, feeling guilty about using her to distract himself from Isabella.

"You can stay here for a little while if you want. I'll be watching the games from the lacrima." Marlene offered, to which Bullet responded with a curt nod. He watched as his temporary companion began to intently view the Lacrima. With a deep sigh, Bullet tilted his head back and decided to take a nap. Waking up so early was starting to catch up with him. He let his thoughts wander to many things. All the usual; Isabella, the fight he had lost in the previous days and the ball. Oh God, the Ball. Isabella was attending with Jane tonight. The thought of them being so happy together brought up the ugliest of feelings within him.

Despite his whining, Bullet was looking forward to going with Isabella. His heart had been crushed when she chose Jane over him. Of course it was to be expected. Jane was a new shiny toy in Isabella's life, after all. The roar of the games turned to white noise as Bullet let his thoughts consumed him. Jealousy and disdain plagued his mind and he just couldn't shake it. And why should he? It was always like this. Isabella would always get interested in someone else, have her fun, then discard them when they got 'boring'.
They were nice, but you're far more fun to be around then them. The very thought of hearing that again in her voice made the young mans blood boil.
Why am I always your rebound? He thought bitterly, biting his lower lip. If she liked him so much, why was she always looking for someone new to run off with? What was it about his company that couldn't satisfy her? She had grown so complacent of the fact that Bullet would always be there for her. Just once he wished that she could know what it felt like to be left behind.

Then he started thinking about Marlene. Tilting his head forward, Bullet stared at the back of her head whilst she eagerly watched the games. He felt a lump in his throat and his knees were shaking. Every part of him knew what he was thinking was wrong. To use Marlene like that would make him just as bad as Isabella. Slowly he felt himself standing up. He screamed at himself to stop; that he never wanted to be like that. Despite everything he tried, he couldn't stop himself from beginning to ask the most awful thing of Marlene.
"Marlene, do you want to go to the Ball with m-"
"The games have been postponed?" Marlene interjected, more interested in the strange turn of events than anything Bullet had to say. "What event could've possibly made them to reach that decision?" Bullet stopped in his tracks, mouth agape; not from the news about the games, but at the thought of what he had almost done.

Slowly walking over to the Lacrima, Bullet sat down next to Marlene and watched the events unfold.
"Hmm, weird. Do the royals usually make an appearance for the games? Must be something serious."

---

---

Ethel's tension was quite clear to Rosalina, but not in the way she was used to. Normally Rosalina would be able to pick up on a quickened heartbeat, but the intense magical presence the young woman emitted seemed to mask her ability to sense such things. Thankfully her discomfort was very transparent, as you would expect from a young girl. Rosalina continued to walk on, turning her head slightly at a sudden flux of power that emitted from behind her. Her gaze met Ethel's, but not for long since the girl seemed very cautious about eye contact with the older woman. Rosalina knew this to be a sign of someone who had something to hide. Despite what she felt, Rosalina ignored the odd feeling and looked ahead. If Ethel didn't wish to discuss her magic, then Rosalina wasn't going to push it. Not until she deemed it as information worth pursuing.

When Rosalina had brought up her power, Ethel's response was simple but informative.
"Why? 'Cause Sora teaches Ethel. Many things Ethel didn't know before." Her voice was soft, like a scared little mouse. Rosalina hadn't responded to her regarding this Sora man's position as her mentor. At the very least it confirmed that he was a mage, and quite a powerful one if Ethel's boasts held any ground. Regardless, it was best to be cautious. From behind her, Ethel's tiny voice spoke up once again.
"Mage...Ethel has never been called a mage before. Ethel's been called many a thing. 'Monster', 'freak', Ethel, 'abomination'. But not mage." Rosalina could barely stand to listen to such nonsense. Turning around on her heel, Rosalina knelt down and looked into Ethel's eyes with a beast like fierceness.
"Is that what Sora calls you? A monster?" Rosalina reached out her hand and gently touched Ethel's cheek, prompting her to keep her eyes on her. Before she could answer, a small creature that looked like a bunny crawled out from her hood. Immediately Ethel's face lit up. Rosalina sighed and stood to her full height. She wasn't sure what to make of this strange girl.

As Ethel finished speaking, Rosalina felt a magical presence begin to materialise. Someone was coming. She began to survey the surrounding areas, thinking through her plans while she still had some time.
"Actually I had other business to attend to squirt." Rosalina's head jerked to the side in alarm. That faint magical presence had grown so quickly that she hadn't even realised this stranger had already appeared. Was it some kind of teleportation magic? No, Rosalina was somewhat more familiar with that. Ethel seemed glad to greet this man, so he must have been Sora. Eventually he turned his attention to Rosalina, finding that her gaze was as harsh and cold as she was rumoured to be.
"Oh? Rosalina Idwal? From the Magic Council? What business would you have with my disciple here? If I knew you were here I would've cleaned up first." It seemed that news of Rosalina's new position was spreading fast. No doubt she would have the other Council Members to thank for that. Rosalina eyed over Sora, taking note of what were clearly signs of a fight.
"Captain Idwal." She corrected bluntly, taking no part in his formalities. "What is a man such as yourself with such a young child in your employ?" Rosalina didn't even try to hide the fact that she was making him out to be some kind of predator. Her tone was sinister and sharp, placing a heavy, spiteful emphasis on 'a man such as yourself'.

Then Sora claimed that he had business with Rosalina. That wasn't the first time she'd heard that from a stranger recently. Although she had no intention of being as polite to this man as she had been with Gregory Vale.

---

---

Constantine had wasted no time in pouring out some more scotch for herself. So much for being on duty. Two drinks wouldn't effect her, so it was fine. She was known for being quite a heavyweight when it came to alcohol, drinking most of the other Knights under the table in the barracks. She took a long, tentative sip whilst watching Sayatachi from the corner of her eyes.
"A knight you say?" No doubt she was surprised. Constantine didn't really dress the part. Rosalina didn't mind that she preferred not to wear the uniform, provided she kept the crest on her to identify others that she was a Knight. She conveniently forgot that at her temporary residence. Again.

"So you must be part of a guard. Hmm... interesting. I never thought that Rosalina would be the kind of Councilman that would assemble such a team." Sayatachi was prodding; no doubt about that. Though the way she did it perfectly masked any hidden intentions. Of coarse, someone as skeptical as Constantine would never accept that a Council Member of all people wouldn't have some form of underhanded scheme. She had worked for the Knights longer than most. In her time she witnessed all kinds of treachery in the shadows of the Council. The last Council was definitely a more extreme case; one she had not anticipated. Yet it had made her much more weary of who she trusted. Even at times her faith in Rosalina faltered. She probably knew more about that woman than any living person on this earth; yet there was still so much she was left in the dark about. After a long silence, Constantine finished her drink before shrugging her shoulders.
"I suppose you could call us that" She spoke with a vague, non-committal tone. There was no reason to reveal anything that wasn't absolutely necessary. In reality, Constantine almost laughed at the idea of them being Rosalina's guard. No, that woman could take care of herself. They were more like an extension of herself; completing the tasks she didn't have the time for.

Sayatachi seemed oddly pleased with herself, bringing up the fact that she herself had also recruited a Guard that remained a secret from the Council. One by one the three unique individuals stepped forth and greeted Constantine. No names were exchanged. That was curious. Constantine gazed over them before issuing out a simple nod. When she expressed her concern over them being in the Council Chambers, Sayatachi was quick to ease her.
"Do not judge them by their appearance..." She began, "As I've mentioned, these three individuals belong in my private guard. I've been meaning to announce the whole council about their existence, but hadn't had the chance yet. They wield incredibly powerful magic and with their capacity to use them in such a fantastic style, that when I first saw them in action... I had to recruit them. THAT... is how skilled they really are." Constantine pushed her glass away, offering a pensive 'hmm' in appreciation of the talents Sayatachi had recruited. Truthfully, she was really just thinking about what Lady Nijiko had just told her. It wasn't uncommon for members of the Council to recruit their own guards, but these three mages were at a completely different level. What could she possibly need such protection for? Then again, in these times one could never be too well guarded.

"You must see them in action to really grasp their true potential." Now that was something Constantine would have liked to see. Not to admire their skills, but to gather more information on them. The three hadn't given their names, and the Knight knew that she would seem too obvious if she pried about it. Constantine stood up the bar and placed her mask back on her face.
"I'm sure the opportunity will arise soon." With a salute, Constantine addressed the Council Woman with more respect than she'd shown her the whole time she was here. "I really must be going Lady Nijiko. Captain Idwal has set me many a task for today, and I'm afraid I'm already behind schedule. I believe my Captain said she was planning to speak with you later at the Ball." Constantine held the salute, hoping that this woman would dismiss her. To just leave would be disrespectful; not that she'd made much of an effort to maintain that front.

---

---

Bayard rushed to Eli with urgency, not expecting the young man to have been so displaced by his attack. He thought he was holding back, but then again it wouldn't be the first time Bayard has underestimated his own strength. Kneeling down beside Eli, Bayard offered his hand. Though quick as lightning, Eli sprang back up to his feet almost defensively. Standing at his full height, Bayard towered over the young man with a concerned expression.
"My deepest apologies Sir, but I did advise you not to cause a scene." He said matter-of-factly, folding his arms over his chest as he listened to Eli try to weasel his way out of this.

"Alright, big guy, ya got me. Now, can't we just be civil here? I mean, I could always return that one thing I took and you could let me on my way. No fuss, no busy work for you. Whaddya say?" Bayard's face dropped from a gentle smile to a rather intimidating scowl.
"Civil? You were the one that almost trampled several civilians trying to escape. I have been nothing but patient with you since the start, young man." Bayard pushed one of his stone covered fists into the wall next to Eli with barely any effort, denting it as if he'd thrown a sack of bricks at it. The gesture was mostly to let Eli know that his patience was wearing thin. "Make no mistake, you will return what you stole. Then you'll also need to face the consequences for resisting a Knight." Bayard brought his fist back, dissipating the partial Thick Skin and placing his bare hand on the kids shoulder.

"If you behave I'll let you off easy, alright?" Bayard spoke with a friendly smile, pushing his glasses back up his nose and adjusting his tie. He really wasn't in the mood to get into a fight; especially with a kid. Though he had to admit, the young and spirited ones made for great sparring partners. He lowered his guard slightly, letting Eli know that he wasn't going to restrain him. He hoped that this wasn't a mistake. His little trick was unlikely to work a second time.

@Leslie Hall
Sora rolled his eyes at Rosalina's correction of the usage of her name. Did it really matter whether or not he called her a 'captain' or not? He honestly didn't care for such formality but from what he had heard about her it didn't surprise him that much.
"I'm sorry Captain Idwal. My mistake." Sora made sure his sarcasm wasn't even remotely subtle. He thought this woman to be a stick in the mud, thus would treat her as such. Though he at least admired the fact she got straight to whatever point she wanted to make. No beating around the bush.
"However this time it is you that is mistaken. Ethel is not in my employment." Sora glanced down at the younger wizard with a questioning gaze. It was a look that was nonverbally asking Ethel 'what the heck have you said about me?'.
Although he supposed him calling her his disciple all the time would probably help fuel any misunderstandings on their relationship.
"The opposite in fact. Ethel is my employer. So I'm unsure what kind of delusions you seem to be under, but they're completely false Captain Idwal." Sora now added in a blatantly disrespectful tone. He didn't like her accusing tone one bit and was definitely letting her know. Sora was many a thing. A complete asshole, a smart ass, reckless, a rule-bender. A borderline criminally inclined sociopath.
A man who had a little girl fetish? Yeah...no. He was always open on this subject, he prefered mature women over an underdeveloped girl any day. He just didn't see the appeal. He liked curves, the more outrageous the better. Plain and simple.
Ethel gently touch Sora's right arm where his sleeve should be, looking upwards with a hint of concern. He had mentioned 'business' so that alone had Ethel slightly concerned, let alone seeing him as he was now.
"However as to why she hired me is a personal issue for Ethel. But at the time I was left with very little choice to say no. She had just been abandoned by her father, her magic completely out of control. I wasn't going to just leave her like that, would you?" Sora ruffled her hair again as he took note of her concern. However the memory of their first encounter was still fresh in his mind.
Ethel crying out for help, for her father. Her body was a total mess of limbs and other materials as her magic went wild. Her fear, despair. Just the very memory made his blood boil. It was at that time he had made a mental promise that once he found the bastard, he was going to give her father a good old right hook.
He wouldn't kill the man of course. As despite being completely abandoned when she needed him most, she still seemed quite eager to be with him again. And she wanted her 'entire' family back together, so killing him also defeated that objective.
"But I shouldn't bore you with such a heartbreaking story like Ethel's. It's of no concern of yours anyway, not that I expect someone like you to care all that much. I think it would best to get back on track and get to my business since you're already here." Sora added dismissively. From what he had heard she was some kind of cold hearted bitch who didn't seem to care about much besides from the law. Of course they were just rumours he had heard while being on the streets so wasn't taking too much from it, but thus far she seemed to live up to them.
"That is a rumor I heard yesterday. Something about you looking for rogue wizards? If someone such as yourself would allow someone as lowly as me to ask why and receive an answer that would be just swell. Also if you were looking for any wizards in particular I suppose might help. I've ran into about half a bloody dark guild since entering the city. The security here is worse than the corruption of the previous council I must say. Certainly seen far better protected haystacks."

Thankfully for Bullet, while Marlene heard words coming from Bullet, she was unaware on what those words were forming into. She was more interested in why the games had been canceled. Surely it must be due to something serious, but what could it possibly be? Terrorists? A dark guild attack? Marlene sighs as she tries to figure out what might've caused for the games to be canceled.

"Hmm, weird. Do the royals usually make an appearance for the games? Must be something serious." says Bullet who sounded puzzled as well.

"Not really... unless an emergency situation like this occurs," answers Marlene while scratching her head, "Whatever the reason may be, I guess that means the games are over this year."

She then thinks of what she may do for the last day now that the games were over. She thought for a few seconds until suddenly remembering something that Samir mentioned before

"Hey," she says to Bullet as she stands up, "This is going to sound sudden, but a friend of mine mentioned to me yesterday that there's going to be a Ball celebration tonight. I'll be going with her, but since you're here, do you want to join us?"

She also remembered about both the Nolan and Argus incidents from earlier this week. She should certainly apologize to Nolan but also try and avoid Argus, fearing he may try to cause trouble with her again. But otherwise, the night should be rather fun to hang around.

---

Samir sighed in regards to the man's response, responding with an added tsk.

"Yeah it's to be expected." she responds while folding her arms in, "I was only able to get my room for half-off because of my long mission. I was even lucky to have returned during the games you know? And now the games have been canceled. Something incredibly urgent must've come up on their schedule I bet..."

The man only shrugged, continuing with his theory, "Yet I can only speculate on why it ended so quickly, mostly at the last day. It may very well be reasons we will never know. Which guild did you want to win anyway miss?"

The archer turns her head towards Gambit.

"Like overall or this particular battle?" she asked curiously, only to answer them herself, "Overall, I wanted Phoenix Wing to win, since I'm part of their guild. For this battle? ...Also Phoenix. I know, it makes me sound way too egotistical and all, but I gotta say, Pirate Lord was pretty creative in their tactics. Kudos to them you know? What about you? Which did you want to win?"

---

As the Kamikaze Guard begin to get comfortable with their surroundings, Constantine's stay must unfortunately come to an end, placing her mask back on her face, saluting the Rainbow Majesty in a polite and respectful manner.

"I really must be going Lady Nijiko. Captain Idwal has set me many a task for today, and I'm afraid I'm already behind schedule. I believe my Captain said she was planning to speak with you later at the Ball."

Saya would sigh, as if she was slightly disappointed she had to leave, but not in a negative displeased way towards her. She swirls her glass as she look at the Rune Knight.

"A shame you have to leave so soon darling," Sayatachi responds while taking a sip, "But alas, I will not keep you waiting for any longer. And I'll be sure to talk to Miss Rosa then. Farewell."

As soon as Constantine left the quarters, the announcement came over the royals that the Games were to be canceled due to untold business. Saya's left eyebrow pricked up curiously at the urgent call, followed by comments by the guards.

"Hmph." the tall individual grunts as he sips a hard liquor from the cooler, "How utterly disappointing."

"Ey, no fair!" the small woman whines as she flops on the couch, "I want to see some fighting!"

Only the white figure said nothing at all, as he looks out the window to see a sea of unsatisfied customers booing with disappointment.

Sayatachi turns her head back to the guards, giving them a hand gesture for them to calm down. Only a few seconds later did she speak to them.

"Keep serene," she responds firmly as she continues looking out the window, "The games may be canceled, but the day has only just begun. I suggest you all be on your best behavior."

"What do you recommend we do at this moment?" the white man asks curiously.

It was then when Saya turns around to face them all.

"You may all relax here for the time being," she replies, responding to his question. She then looks at the rest, "As for the Ball, you will come with me. For what I suggest you all do, is to buy yourselves formal suits and garments. Make yourselves look presentable for the party..."

She then reveals what is worth 6,000 scales, presenting them on the desk in three neat piles, 2,000 scales each.

"Each of you will get 2,000 scales to buy your suits and whatever else you need." the majesty announces to them, "Meet me at the front of the ball house 10 minutes before it starts. Understand?"

Her response is a unified salute and "Yes Mam." coming from them all.

"Good. Rest up here for 15 minutes and get out there. Dismissed."

And with that, the Guard members went back to their activities. Saya watches them for a hot second, sipping on her wine, until moving into her room. She originally planned for the Kamikaze Squad to be revealed later on tonight, only for them to make a hot pitstop here in the quarters and move out, but with Constantine's rather "pre-mature" arrival and the fact she mentioned Rosa having a Guard of her own, she might as well confirm it. Looks like Constantine's going to spoil it to Rosalina, not like it had any significant meaning or anything, other than to have a fitting "surprise".

"Oh, I know. You really are a nice guy, eh? I fully admit I was in the wrong here, but you see—" His smooth speech was cut short as Eli watched the innocent stone wall be pounded in like it was a paper screen. Needless to say, the scaredy cat in Eli was screeching in absolute horror as he pictured his thin body against that kind of attack. Sweat started to fall from his forehead down the sides of his face in a state of panic, a nervous smile never leaving his mouth. "Heheh... heh... You're, real strong, heheh..."

Suddenly the blonde spun towards the giant. "Okay, I'll listen to you! I'll give it all back, just please don't kill me." He begged, hands clasped before him. "I have money? You want money? Please man, don't you have someone else more worth death? I'm just a thief, cut me some slack!" By this time, Eli was a nervous wreck, half expecting Bayard to bite his head off or something. I wonder if I can repent now before my death... Eli thought, already starting silent prayers for his life in his head. They began with "Hey, i know I've never talked to ya before, but maybe you could help a guy out?"