---

Zauberheim.

A city known for a number of things, some little things that made profound differences. Raised on an elevated section of land, it's stone walls stood out majestically into the sky for every traveler who gazed upon them. Backed by dark mountains to the North it could even make a frightening vista for those who thought naught but ill for the inhabitants.

And if those were not enough, there were 3 gates any traveler had to pass through before getting into the kingdom proper, so everyone was checked 3 times over for anything and everything. There were very, very few that could pass through without inspection.

Yet the city was peaceful. It was the home of the benevolent Reinhardt von Zauberheim, Fifth Ruler of Razelia. Husband to Brunhilde von Zauberheim also known as the Luminous Queen, and father to young Lisianthus von Zauberheim and Lutz von Zauberheim, crowned Princess and Prince of the Kingdom.

Unlike other human nations, however, the von Zauberheim line decided they would have a little quirk in their kingdom; Razelia was home to Humans, Elves and Beastkin. It was certainly an idea that was unusual, especially letting the different groups of Elves to stay true to themselves, yet through his connections and reputation, King Reinhardt kept the most radical of naysayers at bay.

But now was not the time to dwell in such matters with future events in store, it was time once more for the Grand Academy Tournament. An event where the top students of Seraph Academy battled to see who truly was number one of their year. This year however, things would be a little different, for many a rumor had it that there would be outside participants partaking in the tournament.

The city itself was abuzz with talk and gossip about the tournament. The streets and buildings were decorated. Shops and stands sold Tournament-related merchandise. But all this paled in comparison with Seraph Academy itself. There was more talk and gossip. There were more decorations. There were more merchandise being sold though that one had little to do with those within the Academy.

Those who wished to participate had to register first and Seraph Academy had set up several large purple tents in their courtyards for this purpose. One would think there would be many that would sign up for a chance at glory and recognition and indeed there are, but even many stayed their hands for fear of failure and embarrassment. After all, it was guaranteed that the greatest magicians of Zauberheim and maybe beyond will be participating in the tournament. What could they bring that will match those giants?

But a select few people did not fear this. Perhaps they did, it just did not stop them. For reasons their own, they were in campus grounds in the northern courtyard, standing before the purple tents. They were here for the Grand Academy Tournament.

~~Seleth~~

Early Morning, Church of Aylama.

---

Bah, fools. The lot of them. She had taken a leave of absence from pretty much everything these past few days, likely causing quite a bit of commotion from other students at the academy. She could already hear their voices. Calling her a coward. Saying she was scared that she'd lose. Saying that she was tucking her tail between her legs like a scared puppy and running. She'd show the lot of them - she wasn't running. She wasn't cowering in fear, no, if anything she was even more determined. She was just...taking some time to self reflect.

...

"Urgh," The Dark Elf cracked open one of her eyes, observing the silent, dimly lit Sanctuary room she meditated in. "This is troubling." She had found herself here often in the last months, questioning a number of things about a plethora of different topics. Most of them related to her behavior and if the Dark Goddess would be happy with her. The small church had become almost a second home to her, the head priest - a beast kin, was quite accommodating and welcoming. "What do I even do?! What is this 'Humbleness' they speak of?" In a rather inelegant fashion, she broke the meditation pose, flailing her outstretched arms in a rather childish fashion. "Argh, I should just blast them all in the face!"

Stopping her whining, she sighed, returning to a cross legged position as she glanced up at the early morning sun through the stained glass window.

...Ah, what to do? She couldn't keep this up, could she? It was obvious she was in the wrong so many times, but...

"You're letting everyone else get to you, Sel." She grumbled as she walked, shaking her head, glancing into a mirror. "You're good. You're skilled, that's just a fact." The melancholic expression that stared back didn't change. "Welp," She stood, brushing off her dress and reclaiming her spear from where it was leaning against the wall. "I'll figure it out as I go, I guess." She shook her head. "How hard can being 'nice' and 'humble' and 'friendly' be?"

Registration Tents

---

Making her way out of the church, Sel strolled through Zauberheim at a relaxed pace, spear resting on her shoulder as she made her way to the northern courtyard where she should be signing up for this tournament. It was easy, right? She could do something like this. She was one of the best mages in Zauberheim, in all of Meylia! That was just a fact, a simple fact. So why couldn't she stop nervously reciting scriptures and going over the histories of the goddess internally?

Soon enough, she reached the purple tents, surprised to see so few people here. She had expected more competition than this. Perhaps she was worrying for nothing?

"Huhm, I expected more people, but I suppose it's nice that everyone knows their place." She mused quietly to herself. Walking up to the purple tents, she nervously glanced around for any familiar faces. She had a certain...facade to keep up, after all. She couldn't let other people see herself so flustered, especially those that might know her.

Rav had always been pumped up for the Grand Academy Tournament. As an old student of Seraph Academy, he's always been drawn to the tourney and everything that came with it. More magic being thrown about and more people to study. Their top students had always been a wonder to Rav. Of course, he had joined the tournament the year before but failed to impress. But Rav - oh Rav - that didn't mean he would give up.

So he waited for the next tournament. And here it was. With its head nearing, some of his friends egged him to participate. Not that he needed them to tell him to do it. He loved the thrill of the battle - not for the sake of harm, but for the sake of the adrenaline. And to learn how to put his magic in practical use, instead of simple theoreticals that wouldn't help anyone. Let alone his tribe.

Though, before he went to the registration, he was stuck at the Royal Library. Seven books were piled up to the ground next to him as he flipped through the pages. He wasn't in any particular hurry. He needed to calm himself as well. His pent up energy was better wasted on learning instead of waiting around on a line and bouncing around.

"Not going to register?" One of his long time friends questioned as she approached the beastkin. She was a fellow beastkin, though she was a harpy - a Feathered One, if you will. He was surprised he didn't hear the clicking of her talons against the wood of the library floor, but he supposed he was too engrossed with the book he was reading.

He gave her a small smile as he closed the book. "I will." He then placed the book on the pile he had collected. "In fact, I'll head over there right now." Rav continued as he stood up.

"Excellent." She then flapped her wings and then tapped her talon onto the book and they began to float. "I'll bring these back. I look forward to your performance Rav." She whispered before heading around to take the books back.

"Many thanks."

Too bad, he wanted to stay longer. But nevermind that. He turned and then headed for the exit. Perhaps he should have gone out to a place that was further from the registration tents, but there was no choice now. He looked out of the windows of the Academy and spotted the tents not too far from them. A smirk playing on his lips, he closed his eyes and then began to chant. He could see a flash of bright light flash against his closed eyes and it remained there.

He opened them and he was outside, the buzz of the people beating against his ears. He wasn't sure if anyone heard him, but he frankly didn't care for now. Rav weaved through the people who were just there to scout who would be signing up and then lined up for registration.

He spotted a fellow student - multiple really - but this one stood out. Seleth - her friends often teased the fact that she was too arrogant for her own good. Ah, it was good that she was going to be in the battle too. But dang, Aylama forbid, she was his first opponent. He imagined he would be beaten within the first two minutes of the battle. But whatever, Rav gave her a thumbs up if she ever looked to his direction and then waited for his turn to register.

SOUTH GATE
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
There was a buzz in the air, he could feel it.The banners strewn about, idle yet excited conversations from the people, guards standing in vigilance...

Well, all but one. Kazudain placed a hand on Maldur's head to quiet his growls.

"I know you wish to be done here my friend my friend, but laws are laws. It won't be much longer now, will it young man?" He turned to the guard looking at his papers, who looked quite unnerved at the cat-beast growling aloud. So did the other people in line for that matter. The guard flinched.

"Y-Yes Milord, only a moment." With haste he organized the documents and applied the seal of the 3rd gate, finally allowing the traveling pair entry into the city. With a snort Maldur stood with a stretch, walking forward as his master collected his papers.

"Thank you." With a curt nod the man followed the beast into the Kingdom. He didn't notice the guard stumble back into the guard house.

"Just w-who, wh-what was" The Guard felt a hand on his shoulder, making him jump before turning around.

"What's wrong Cadah? You look as if you saw a demon made flesh?" Seeing the smiling scaled muzzle of his Captain made Cadah relax a little bit.

"It's just- The man who just passed was traveling with a large beast the likes of which I've never seen before! Just it's growls rattled my bones it did." At the the Captain turned his gaze to the crowd.

"Whe-" Seeing the pair in question it didn't take long for scaled brows to raise sharply. "Well bless my clans nesting grounds, it seems Lady Amalya is blessing the Kingdom this day."

"What do you mean? Who was that?"

"You don't remember the stories we guardsmen tell at the bars boy? That man's -"

===============================

"Just keep going down this road until you see the jeweler shop, Mavala's. Turn a left then keep heading North. You'll reach the town square in no time." A young Bear Beast-kin spoke while pointing down the main road. Kazudain gave a nod with a smile peeking out from his hood.

"Many thanks you young miss. May the Goddesses smile upon you." With a wave of thanks man and beast continued down the road. The Beast-kin watched them go with a wave.

"Same for you Milord!" The man smiled at her politeness, it was always good to see that quality in a people. He turned to his partner.

"So, ready to see one of the biggest festivals in the land?" His answer was a snort and a shake of a furred head. The man rolled his unseen eyes.

"Yes, yes I know, the children here will only be so strong here. That doesn't mean they won't have surprises my friend." Maldur let out a groan before chuffing at Kazudain.

"Not to worry my friend, we'll be there soon enough. See? There's Mavala's Jewelers just like that young girl told us about." The pair continued down the road, making for the center of the kingdom, town square.

Thessir

Submerged in black waters he thrashed. The light was too far to see and all that surrounded him was the cold grip of the pool starting to pull him underneath. As he felt the current start to jostle his flailing form he recalled watching the bowl floating away, the sickly yellow paste inside dissipating into the stream. He couldn't breath. He was moving but he was too cold to struggle. The nothing he could see was joined by the darkness behind his eyelids as he lost consciousness.

_
It was evening. The sun was just starting to touch against the horizon. The beams of light were cast through the clear windows below, faint particles of dust caught in the illumination. Up above, in the dark shadows of the rafters slept the diminutive young elf. With his head rest against the wall while he slept atop the roof beam he had his hat set over his face to block out any stray light to save from discomfort.

"Omigosh! I can't wait to see who shows up at the tournament!" One overly cheery voice from below remarked in what was clearly not their indoor voice.

"I hope plenty of cuties sign up this year!" The girl's accompanying friend added, speaking with an annoyingly shrill and squeaky voice.

Thessir stirred, rudely roused from his slumber by the two empty-headed girls passing under, gossiping about the upcoming tournament. He never cared for sleep, not with the dreams such rest brought however waking was never pleasant either, especially when it was still daytime.

"Tournamint this, tournamint that." He muttered in irritation, largely to himself. Pushing himself up he sat his hat back upon his crown and stretched, yawning deeply as he did. Grabbing hold of the side of the beam he lowered himself a bit before letting go and landing on the floor below with deft grace.

"Weire it not for the lightniss in my pouch and the locks to the library I'd say nay but here I am no liss, off to sign up in the hopes of moving forward." He rambled on, talking to himself until he caught notice of someone staring from the corner of his eye. A flower beast-kin half submerged in the garden soil was looking out from under her petals at him questioningly. After all, talking to one's self was not normal behavior, at least not in Zauberheim. Seeing her staring back at him he grumbled and turned away, cutting through the garden on his way out of the academy.

_
He had made his way to the market where he purchased a wooden dowel for a measly few coins. While of little use for him now after some work he saw potential in it as a weapon. Perhaps not a fine weapon of elegant make but a weapon no less.

Heading into the northern courtyards of the academy he found himself enjoying the experience less and less. Bustling crowds of people filled the streets, most of them a fair bit taller than him making it quite hard to navigate. Even from underneath the brim of his hat the sunlight made the world far too bright, hurting his sensitive eyes as he looked around. Keeping to the walls and trekking through shade whenever possible he eventually made it to the pavilion where numerous purple registration tents were set and ready to recieve applicants.

With his hat low he kept a low profile and continue towards one of the tents chosen largely at random. There were people that knew him but none he'd really describe as friends. He was a strange sort and strangeness often brought a sense of alienation with it. Affiliated with neither elf nor beast nor man despite his racial heritage he stood out from the accepted and the welcome. It wasn't so much discrimination as it was isolation. No one had much to do with him or his kind and he even less so.

So he had no real friends to speak of, which was fine in his opinion. In the wake of his failure solitude has clung to him like the scent of sea water no matter how many people surrounded him. They did not know, he did not need for them to know.

He was Thessir, he was not from here. That's all he'd ever share.

Vuldur stood before one of the great courtyard tents in silence in the early morning sunlight,truth be told he had woken up only minutes ago and had wandered down to the assignment tents in a half-asleep daze. Life in the city had been good,far better than his old life, but it was not fulfilling. Blasting apart the occasional mugger or telling stories to people on the street side using his magics as aid was all well and good but it didn't quite have the same feel to it as anything...exciting. The tournament seemed like an opportunity to escape the dullness that seemed to have overtaken his life in the past few years and serve as a way to boost his standing in the city, it seemed to be reasonable to sign up.

The courtyard was fall and bustling with what seemed like students from the academy, he didn't recognize any of the whelps though, he'd spent most of his time in Zauberheim in taverns or out in the fields practicing his spell work in private. He wasn't expected to spend his time in the academy just because he used magic was he? He'd spent more than enough time training with his old tutor thank you very much.

"Seleth? Is that you?" A cheerful, airheaded voice called out to Seleth. There was a short, red-haired girl running up to the Dark Elf. This girl was Alicia de Florencia. Born she may be with incredible talent but the fates decided to compensate that with incredible dullness. Despite that, she was kind and good-natured and one of the few who were not put off by Seleth's personality.

"Are you going to participate in the Grand Academy Tournament?" She happily asked Seleth. "If so, then we might face each other during the tournament. But just because you're my friend doesn't mean I'm going to hold back against you." Alicia face turned serious though it was more of a cute pout than anything.

"Oh, and there's Rav." She pointed at Raviel Husk. "I guess he's going to register too. He always joins the tournament even if he couldn't get past half the other participants." Though, that might be rich coming from her as she too frequently participates in the yearly tournaments almost as much as Raviel does.



After Thessir and Vuldur registered and left the purple tent, they immediately see a brown-haired boy with blue downtrodden eyes. His clothes were simple but both Thessir and Vuldur noticed that many of the students looked at him as if he were some sort of celebrity. Some students who were about to enter a purple tent backed down upon seeing him. This boy must be indeed someone famous and powerful that he could intimidate people from joining the Grand Academy Tournament by his mere presence. Despite, looking meek and quiet.

Approaching Thessir who stood in front of a purple tent, the boy's eyes rose to meet with Thessir's. "Ah, excuse me sir. I need to get into the tent." He politely requested of the Rogue Elf. Although, the boy tensed up when he got a better look at Thessir's rather unusual appearance.

Meanwhile, someone bumped into Vuldur. A girl of long hair and beastly ears and tail. "Ah, I'm sorry." She apologized. "I'm looking for Varjan. Have you seen him?" She asked, her eyes still shut. Assuming that you were someone who knew this 'Varjan' person. "I can sense him nearby but with this concentration of mages, it's hard for me to pinpoint him."

---

You soon make it to the city square and while it was normal for it to be busy during a normal midday, the busyness was magnified tenfold due to the upcoming tournament. There was plenty of talk about it and there was certainly plenty of decorations and posters and banners about it.

A pat then reached your back. Upon looking, you could see a fully-armored figure with his hand on your back. "Yooo! Mysterious Stranger! It's me, Keith! Remember me? Wait, did we even actually meet back then? Whatever" He greeted you in a jovial tone. "I know I don't have my usual getup on but hey, it's the rules. What'choo gonna do? Not that I mind though, this armor's super slick." He continued, while flexing his other arm and showing off the pitch black armor.

"So, we're back at it again, huh? Ahh Zauberheim, the Kingdom of Magic. Sure brings me memories. I'd probably even join the tournament this time." Keith mused, removing his hand from your back. "Say, have you seen Zev'jul? Or Rielle? I mean, those people are here right? I'm pretty sure I have a contract with the former. I wonder what he looks like now."

WEST GATE
-------------------------------------------
The second gate was met with what appeared to be many nobles from out of the country, word of the tournament reached far it seems. Not that it mattered to this woman, she simply wanted to gain entry. To make sure things went swimmingly, however, she would have to mind her P's & Q's for now. Finally getting her turn in line, Hisana made her way to the official guarding the gate.

"Hello, my name is Hisana. I'm a traveling mercenary-for-hire and I wish to enter this year's tournament." Hisana placed her elbows on the table as to reveal more of her bust to the gatekeeper sitting opposite her. The guard took a noticeable glance at the estranged woman before regaining focus.

"Well, that's fine Ma'am, just allow me to process the necessary paperwork and you'll be on your merry way. May I see it please?" Said the guard in a somewhat uncomfortable tone.

Hisana held out her left arm as she used the right to pull something out of her sleeve; she began to take out a fancy roll of documents from the left sleeve. However, it was easy to tell that her glove was skin tight, so it appeared as though she pulled the paper out of nowhere. Perplexed, the guardsman looked on with a curious squint.

"Um...excuse me Ma'am, but are you some sort of street performer? In this place where REAL magic is common ground, I don't think your simple parlor tricks will net you very far..." Said the guard as he took the paperwork from Hisana's hand. He began looking through it with his hand resting on his jaw.

"Oh, I do agree, as such I mainly reserve those tricks for parties and places where money is gambled away." Responded the flashy woman. After several minutes, the guard firmly placed a seal on the documents with a stamp and handed them back to the woman.

"Alright, your paperwork checks out, Ma'am. It seems your combat ability is quite noteworthy according to your background, I'm sure the students will be able to learn a lot from you." Said the gatekeeper. "You may pass. You will find the tournament registration site in the courtyards of the academy. Take the main road and watch for the banners, you can't miss it."

"Thanks, love. I'm sure it will be an excellent learning experience for all of us~" Mused Hisana as she made her way passed the gate. As she guard took a sip from his cup, he begat a unpleasant expression on his face as he quickly spat out the drink. "Ugh!" Was all he managed to say. "What's your problem, Magnov?" Said his fellow watchmen.

"The mead I was drinking just turned rancid for some reason! I've never tasted something so putrid in my life!" Magnov's cat beastkin colleague couldn't help but laugh at the man trying to get the taste out of his mouth. The cat then turned an eye to the lady leaving the premises, having a feeling that she was the one responsible. "I should invite her to one of our parties sometime. That lass seems like she knows how to have fun!" He thought to himself.

As she made her way into the city the bustle of the festivities could be seen, street paved with vendors and party goers. Many students could also be seen making their way to the site as well; Hisana figured if she got lost she could just tail one of them.

As she began walking further into the city, she wondered if her icy friend picked up on her trial yet. She hadn't seen him since the incident in Renvall. Giggling to herself, she made a money pouch appear with just a flick of her wrist. Bouncing it up and down in her palm she quietly thought to herself. "I wonder how long it will take that fool guard to realize that I stole his wallet? Teehee~" So far gaining entry into the capital went without a hitch, takes to her falsifying documents with Flimsy Lies.

---

WEST GATE
-----------------------------------------------
Sometime after a certain dame passed the gate, a figure dressed in eastern attire white as snow made his way to the gatekeeper. This time, however, it was the cat beastkin. "Good afternoon, sir. By your dress I'd wager your from the lands far to the east. I must say we don't get too many of your kind here." The guard took notice of the man's peculiar-looking sword. "I imagine you're here to register for the tournament?"

"Originally yes, but there is a more pressing issue at hand. If you see a young woman with long red hair and a rose bustier, you have to detain her immediately! She's a dangerous murderer!" Said the mercenary in a rushed tone.

The guard looked at the man with a rather surprised expression, taking in his words. "I did, as a matter of fact, see a lass matching your description come by here. My friend just passed her through registration not too long ago, quite the card that one. However, she didn't appear to look or match the part of being some dangerous criminal. That, and her paper work checked out. If anything, you look more suspicious spouting out random accusations without any hard proof." Said the cat guard as he folded his arms, leaning back in his chair.

"I...listen, what reason would I have to lie to you? I'm a bounty hunter who keeps the balance by taking out different targets, and I'm telling you she's one of them! You wanna see my bingo book?" Said the hunter as he reached into his pockets for something.

"That won't be necessary, friend. After processing her paperwork, her name didn't show up anywhere in the records as a wanted criminal. As far as we can see, she's as clean as a whistle." Asserted the guard.

"I...I see, is that right?" The hunter's fears came to pass, it seems she was indeed able to get a pass through the system with fake paperwork.

"Yeah, it is. Now are you going to register or not? I can't picture you coming all this way just to stir commotion at this festive time; you're holding up the line I'll have ya know!" At this point the guard was becoming impatient with the bounty seeker.

With a heavy sigh, the hunter knew he was getting nowhere fast. Oh well, he'd have to find another way."Please forgive me." Politely replied the young man. "All is forgiven, name please?" Asked the guard.

"Enishi Fuyu".

"Hmm, I seem to remember some of my friends talking about some weird Taoist mercenary who was making quite the name for himself out in the field of bounty hunting. Well, you certainly are weird, that's for sure. But, I also sense a kindred spirit in you." The cat's tone shifted to a more light-hearted one.

"You flatter me, sir." Said Enishi as he handed the guard his paperwork. After few minutes, the guard stamped the documents with the official kingdom seal. "Alright laddie, you're free to go! The tournament registration grounds are on the school premises. Head down the main road and you'll arrive in no time. Just head to any of the courtyards, they're in the purple tents." The guard handed the papers back to Enishi.

"Thank you, sir, I'll be on my way then. By the way, where's your friend? Asked the mercenary. "He's currently not available. Seems the poor guy lost his wallet somehow, he's turning the whole gate upside down trying to find it. I fear he may go mad looking for it, he was going to buy his children souvenirs. I'm surprised he hasn't shut the line down yet." Said the guard with a shrug.

"I see...very well then. Thanks anyway." Said Enishi as he made his way into the city. He was taken a back by the preparations for the Grand Festival; the capital city was as beautiful as the rumors suggested. Looking at all the students preparing for the tournament also got him excited. But, duty calls first! It was time to earn his pay and keep the townspeople safe.

"I will find you Hisana. And when I do, I'll sublimate you!"

~~Seleth~~

@PaulHaynek
North Courtyard

---

Ack, was that Raviel?! Seleth quickly made an attempt to make herself scarce, or at least make it so he didn't see her so easily. Tried too. Her efforts were in vain, and Seleth inwardly grimaced as Raviel seemed to notice her. He even gave her a...thumbs up? What on earth was he thinking? What sort of gesture was that, anyways? Was he making fun of her? She couldn't fathom why he'd be doing that unless he was. She frowned, clicking her tongue derisively, turning her attention back to the tents hoping the registration process would be swift before she was forced to -

"Seleth? Is that you?"

Urgh, why her of all people? Sel turned coolly, facing the shorter redhead with a disinterested glance. Alicia de Florencia. One of many people who Seleth couldn't really stand...and one of the few who seemed to still hang around regardless. She should try being a little nicer...

"Humph, of course I'm participating Alicia." She responded. How to be nice? How to show some humility and not completely bungle this up? "I'm more surprised you haven't run away with your tail between your legs."

Ha, nailed it.

"I saw..." Seleth continued when Alicia mentioned Raviel. "I'm not too worried. I can easily handle someone like him." Hopefully. Maybe. Possibly. Despite her confidence with which she spoke...oh dear Aylama, she didn't want him as her first opponent. Or as an opponent at all. He could easily take her if he could ever get close enough. She might be good with a spear, but she wasn't some dedicated martial artist. "More importantly though...how long does it usually take to register for these things?"

Though true that Rav was trying to get Seleth's attention for a moment there, he wasn't exactly paying attention to how she would respond to it. So the fact that she wasn't impressed or was utterly confused as to why he was doing his gesture was lost to the air as he looked away from her. He moved up the line, practically bouncing in his heels in excitement.

His ear twitched when he heard his name. Turning back to, oddly, Seleth of all people. But it seemed that someone else had joined her in the line. It was Alicia! Fellow student who keeps on trying in the tournament. Rav hadn't had the pleasure, or the horror, of facing her. He was thankful for that. She was gifted when it came to the magical talent. Though, honestly, there was someone else he'd rather not face.

"I guess he's going to register too. He always joins the tournament even if he couldn't get past half the other participants."

His tail stilled and then he suddenly shouted, "Hey, hey, like you're any better Alicia!" His tone wasn't angry though, it was more like he was joking as well. Rav didn't seem to care if there were so many other people who could hear him. It didn't matter to him really.

He then seemed to ease back as his tail released the tnesion it had earlier and dropped down, revealing that he was calmer. "Hope to see you get far in the tourney, Alicia, Seleth." Rav had come to understand that this year would be worse for them. Not only were they facing students, but outsiders as well. Trained magicians who have more experience than them.

Fair right? But he wasn't complaining. Studying them while they fight would be beneficial to them - to the students. Rav might learn a lot from them and he was looking forward to it. Besides, maybe this time, he might find a match. Now wouldn't that be a good match? Ooh, he was looking forward to the match-ups.

For a strong few seconds Kazudain merely stared at the jovial if odd man. He had never met the man before and would have written him off for lunacy if not from speaking the name a past adversary.

It had been some time since he had faced that woman. Thankfully she was not going to be a bother to anyone here. Before he could speak Maldur broke the silence by sneaking behind the man, Keith he recalled.

In a rather comical display the cat-beast smoothly positioned Keith unsteadily onto its shoulders, where Keith promptly fell over in a heap. It garnered some laughs and looks from the passerby's, and a small apologetic chuckle from Kazudain himself.

"You'll have to forgive my friend, he can be a bit eccentric at times." A snort and shake of his mane was all the cat-beast did before starting to lick his paw, looking quite pleased and unapologetic. The master held out a hand for Keith to take.

"Perhaps as a means of making up for his actions I treat you to a drink at a tavern of your choice after I've finished my business with the registry tents. What say you, Sir Keith?"

Thessir

The registration was an annoying process but sadly necessary. He did not know where the actual tournament would take place but he hoped it would at least be indoors. It was too much to hope it would take place at night so he'd take what he could get.

As he dwelt upon the upcoming tournament, a long curved dagger in hand as he whittled away at the end of his dowel, a simple human strolled on up to him before stopping.

"Ah, excuse me sir. I need to get into the tent." The man requested, unwittingly looming well over Thessir's small frame as their eyes met.

"Ahhh... My apologies." He bowed his head, his hat blocking sight of his face completely. With a simple step to the side he moved out of the shadow the taller man was casting. Despite the pleasant shade this stranger was casting he had to register along with all the others who dared to brave the rigors of the tournament and he was not one to stop this fellow from proceeding on through.

_
"Do not lit one such as I impede you. I myself no longer have need of these tents... Or so I'm told." He chuckled in a strange manner, both ominous yet somewhat loopy, as he stripped yet another long sliver of wood from the end of his pole. With any luck before the fights begin he'd have his makeshift spear ready. Until then it was strip after strip after strip, cutting away the flesh of the branch until it accepts the desired shape being imposed upon it.

He could see how the other students reacted to him. He didn't care but it was curious nonetheless. It was an interesting mystery just what he had up his sleeve but he wasn't about to change the tune he whittled to at the whim of some crowd favorite's passing by.

"Remember to dot your T's and cross your I's. The human kingdoms show fondniss for parchmints of dubious necessity." He added, slowly whittling away at his wooden rod all the while. After it seemed he had finished speaking he gave a low and somewhat discordant chuckle, giggles which sometimes spiked in pitch without warning.

No matter whether or not it made sense to them he certainly found his points amusing.

_
@PaulHaynek

You arrive at the northern courtyard of Seraph Academy. The purple registration tents were up and people were lined up to participate in the Grand Academy Tournament. However, they were not as many compared to previous tournaments and the lines were much shorter now than then.

Still, your arrival got you many greetings from the many students of the academy. Including from one girl of Eastern origin. "Oh, Princess! You're here!" She greeted you happily. The girl had the robes and fashion befitting of one from the Eastern Isles. This was Mira Yasunori, a classmate of yours. A sweet little girl but no one extraordinary.

"Are you here to register for the Grand Academy Tournament. 'Cause I am too." She said but then her mood saddened. "Although, I heard Varjan's also joining so... that's going to be one heck of a hurdle to get over." She remarked. "Not to mention outside competitors. Uggghhh..."

"Say, how do you plan on fighting Varjan?" Mira suddenly asked. "You know, if it comes to that."

"Humph, of course I'm participating Alicia. I'm more surprised you haven't run away with your tail between your legs."

Alicia gasped in offense. "Wha?! Seleth, that's mean!" Now she really pouted.

"Hope to see you get far in the tourney, Alicia, Seleth."

"Hey thanks, Rav." Alicia replied. "I'll hope too since we're gonna need all the hope we can get."

"More importantly though...how long does it usually take to register for these things?"

"Back then, really really long." Alicia answered with a smile. "It's not the process of registration though. That one's quick. You just write your name you're all set." Then her smile faltered. "It was the lines. Back then, the lines stretched all the way across Seraph Academy. Okay maybe not that much but it sure felt like it."

Then her smile was completely gone. "This line is nothing compared then. Probably because Varjan's participating in the tournament." Varjan. That name was well-known across Seraph Academy and perhaps even throughout Zauberheim. That boy was unlike any other. He nailed subjects seemingly without effort and scored pretty high in exams and sparring matches. Even the Crown Princess herself, renowned as she was, had to exert effort just to keep up.

Then, the three of you hear a commotion just nearby. Noises of a woman shouting. "Ah, Varjan..." The three of you witness a brown-haired, simple-dressed boy get yelled at by a well-dressed woman of black hair near one of the other purple tents. The boy was Varjan himself and after entering the purple tents, it was all but guaranteed that he would be in the tournament.

Alicia looked back at Seleth and Raviel and forced a smile into her face. "Well, I guess that's it. Varjan is indeed in the tournament. I hope he goes easy on us all." She said. "Say, do you guys have a trick up your sleeves just in case you face someone like Varjan? Or will you just wing it?"

"Ahhh... My apologies. Do not lit one such as I impede you. I myself no longer have need of these tents... Or so I'm told. Remember to dot your T's and cross your I's. The human kingdoms show fondniss for parchmints of dubious necessity."

Before the boy could reply, a woman butted in the conversation. "Varjan! What the hell's wrong with you?!" A beautiful sharp-dressed woman with long black hair and black eyes. However, her angry face tarnished some of the beauty. "You don't talk to outsiders like that! Show respect!" She yelled at the boy apparently named Varjan who cowered and kept his head low.

"Just go. Go and register." She commanded the boy who then took his leave and entered the purple tent. The woman then turned back to you. "Ah, I'm sorry for my rude son, sir. I, as her mother, formally apologize." She curtsied before you though you might not know what that is. "You don't look like you're from here. Are you an outside participant?"

"Oh, I'm Iona Caldeyron. But please, just call me Iona." She continued. "May I know who you are? Are you an Elf of some kind?"

---

"Perhaps as a means of making up for his actions I treat you to a drink at a tavern of your choice after I've finished my business with the registry tents. What say you, Sir Keith?"

"Oh, no problem man." Keith took your hand to stand up. "Say, I don't recall you having a kitty for a pet."

"Now then, ikuzo!"

------

You and Keith soon reach the southern courtyard of Seraph Academy where there were purple tents set up. Those tents were the registration for the Grand Academy Tournament would take place. "There's... not much people signing up." Keith remarked. There were people indeed but the lines were virtually nonexistent. One could actually pick which tent they want to enter. "Oh well. Less fodder for us to go through, am I right?"

After entering one of the purple tents, an Elf greeted the two of you from a makeshift desk. "Ah, welcome. Are you two here for the Grand Academy Tournament?"

"Hell yeah, we are! Where do we sign?

"Ah, just over here." The Elf pointed to a paper, amongst many, on the table. "You two don't look like you're from here. Are you participants invited from outside Razelia?"

The last line made Keith stop writing. "W-Wait. Did you say 'Razelia'? I-I thought this was Zauberheim. You know, Zauberheim. Kingdom Of Magic?" Keith inquired, panic and confusion in his voice.

The Elf was unnerved by Keith's sudden shift in behavior. "U-Umm... This place is indeed Zauberheim, sir. The capital of Razelia?"

"Huh?" Keith then bolted out of the tent in a panicked hurry, leaving you and the Elf dumbfounded. "You're f***ed! You're all f***ed!" You hear him screaming outside, no doubt attracting attention.



You arrive at the southern courtyard of Seraph Academy where there were purple tents for registration into the Grand Academy Tournament. Several purple tents were up but it did not appear that a lot of people were signing up, as evidenced by the lack of lines on the tents.

Suddenly, a warrior of black armor emerged from a purple tent. "You're f***ed! You're all f***ed!" He screamed. "You're all f***ed, you hear me?! F***ED!" His yelling caught everyone's attention but he just continued screaming as he ran. "YOU'RE ALL DEAD!"

However, he was not looking where he was going and thus, he accidentally tackled you into the ground. The pouch you had stolen earlier was knocked off of you which was noticed by the raving warrior. "Ooh, I'll need that." He snatched the wallet before getting up. "Listen lady, you gotta get outta here. Consider that pouch as a 'thank you' for the warning." He calmly told you.

Right after that though, he was back to his incessant screaming. "YOU'RE ALL GOING TO DIE!" He yelled as he ran away.

---

You were on your way to Seraph Academy but upon reaching the City Square, a bird-like claw grabbed hold of your shoulder from behind, stopping you dead in your tracks.

"I hope you have time, sir. It's an important business." You turn to see a woman with a pair of bird wings and matching claws for hands and feet. Her face was dead serious, sending a message that she had no time to dally around. "Were you that Taoist fellow who passed through the west gate?" She inquired. "If so, then I have a few questions for you."

"It's about a small robbery. Victim was a guard over at the west gate." She explained. "I was told to look for a girl with reddish colors. And a guy with an Eastern hat."

Kazudain watched as Keith ran off.

"Well, he was certainly an interesting fellow." Maldur continued to clean his face with a paw. With a shake of his head the master handed over a completed entry form to the Elf.

"As for your question, yes we would be from outside the kingdom. I wished to see what the children of this coming generation had to offer, where their potential lies. I'm sure it'll be an event most interesting. Are their any students you are rooting for?"

As Vuldur left the tent he noticed the students eyeing one of their fellows, many abandoning their journey to the tent when they saw him. He could be some sort of rising star, didn't look like the sort to be feared for any other reason except his magical skills. Vuldur dismissed the whelp like he had the others, he may be celebrated here but he wouldn't last a second out in the north against the frost and the wolves.

Vuldur hesitated in confusion for a moment as the girl bumped into him,on one hand it would be easier to ignore her, he had no idea who she was talking about but decided be somewhat polite. They weren't enemies yet,assuming she was even signing up for the tournament that is. Perhaps this 'Varjan' is entering and she is supporting him? He shrugged to himself, that was not his business.
"I don't know who you're on about. Give me a description and I might be able to point him out but otherwise, can't help." he said and visibly shrugged this time.

~~Seleth~~

@PaulHaynek
North Courtyard

---

Ah, was it mean? She hadn't intended for it to be mean! She had meant that it was good that she had come here even though she was weak! Urggh, or did that sound worse? Seleth frowned, trying to think of a way to salvage the situation but ultimately coming up with nothing. Instead she simply harrumphed as Raviel said something to them, ignoring him for the most part. He was making fun of her, wasn't he? The mention of Varjan though, did catch her attention. She had heard the rumors of course, and if he was going to be in it...urgh, she might as well not even try it.

"Hmph, of course I have ideas." Seleth replied haughtily. "I wouldn't be me if I just laid down and accepted defeat, hah!" She couldn't be defeated so easily, could she? Her past track record left much to be desired, but she wasn't going to let herself be so easily defeated even by some supposed prodigy.

Rav couldn't help but nod when Alicia mentioned the long lines from before. "Took hours just to get registered." He muttered in agreement. He remembered that he had to stand in line for so long that he was just glad they opened early so the sun wasn't beating down on them constantly. Plenty of his friends woke up early to stand in line, but Rav almost always wakes up late for things like this. Don't blame him for not looking forward to something as long and as boring as that.

"This line is nothing compared then. Probably because Varjan's participating in the tournament."

"You're right about that. Guess they chickened out." Varjan was their school's prodigy. Something of a star student. He was in a league of his own even among the best of the best. Their teachers always sung praises for the guy. Sometimes, it gets a little too much. Rav knew that he was a great mage and all, but people don't have to always rub that in his face. Geez.

His ears perked up when he heard shouting. Angry shouting. He looked over as the others did and there Varjan was, being shouted at by his mother. "Is he being told off again?" He asked in no one in particular. Rav held no fondness for their family, aside from Varjan of course. There was something about them that rubbed him the wrong way.

"Well at least she has ideas. I got nothing." Rav replied with a shrug, not bothered by his lack of knowledge of defeating Varjan. "I'll make one up on the spot. I always do." He grinned at them as he said this. It's not like he would die when the duel is done.

@PaulHaynek @Rune_Alchemist

@PaulHaynek EDIT
NORTH COURTYARD
-------------------------------------------------------
The princess responded politely to the salutations she received from her peers, she then noticed Mira approach her from among the crowd. "Hello Yasunori! I see you decided to participate in the tournament this year!" Said the princess. Lisia's expression grew more serious at the mention of Varjan's participation. "I expected as much, indeed he is very skilled." Said the princess.

Very skilled was putting it midly; despite Lisia excelling at all subjects, Varjan was nearly her equal by every bit. There was always gossip as to who was the better student. While the challenge would normally excite the young heir, this year she wanted to win, and Varjan just might rob her of victory.

At the very least, the girl was familiar with her classmate's style of combat and magical application. Part of her was more worried about the outside competitors. "We'll have to tread carefully this year. We'll be up against people we've never even seen before, not to mention we haven't a clue what their combat strategies are."

---

SOUTH COURTYARD
---------------------------------------------------
Hisana watched with a blank as the black armored warrior who tackled her made off with the pouch she stole a while earlier. She flipped herself back up and looked off to the distance as the man ran away, still screaming at the top of his lungs about how everyone's going to die.

"That man should apologize after bumping into a lady like that." She said whilst dusting herself off, unconcerned about the pouch. It's not like it was hard to steal in the first place. Plus, having the pouch stolen from her might actually work to her favor. However, anyone near Hisana at this moment would feel a very murderous aura emanating from her.

"When I have the time I should find that man. Killing him might perk my boredom. Yes, I'll gut him like a mewling pig, his blood will fall like pedals and stain the earth with red~" She said, trying her best to hide the insanity in her eyes. She then remembered that she still needed to register for the tournament. The murderous aura vanishing instantly, Hisana made her way to the tent.

@Frozen0Titan
She took note of the hooded man at the reception, she guessed he was another outside participant. But the was something about him, something that turned her on... His hidden power, perhaps?

"Tell me good sir, was that screaming man who ran away just now a friend of yours?" The red-haired woman inquired to the hooded figure as her paperwork was being filled out by the elf receptionist.

---

CITY SQUARE
----------------------------------------------------
Feeling a large claw on his shoulder, Enishi turned to see a winged woman who had the look of an official. He listened to her talk about looking for a red-haired woman and a "guy with an eastern hat". He guessed she meant him...?

With a large sigh Enishi turned to speak to the winged woman. "I remember that feline guard telling me about how his friend's wallet was stolen. If you wanna know who did it, I have a pretty good idea who the culprit is." Said the mercenary.

"But believe you me, due to the nature of the culprit, a stolen wallet gonna be the least of your worries if we don't stop her..."

Kazudain looked to the red haired beauty with a tilt of his head.

"To say yes would be too much a stretch of the truth." His voice was carefree and his posture relaxed but his eyes narrowed, unseen under the cover of his hood. Maldur for his part continued to clean his paw, but now held his gaze firmly on the woman who now spoke with his master.

"I assume you are here to take part in the tournament as an outside competitor. Come to see what the newest generation has to offer young lady?"

Hisana looked with a bit of curiosity at the hooded man's companion; a rather large feline beast. It had its gaze set on the woman, as if waiting to see what she'll do. It needn't worry, at least for now anyway.

"I suppose you could say that~" Mused Hisana. She began to walk over to the beast, bending over to meet with it eye level.

"I must say I find your pet to be quite adorable~ Would it mind if I were to pet it?