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He was busy looking at Ayra, waiting for her to confirm his suspicions that she was not doing well, when a knock came. Cuyler shifted his position, sitting a little taller when a girl, another apprentice Cuyler guessed, came to invite Atkin to leave with them. A little confused when he complies and leaves, Cuyler looks at Ayra to question it when she kisses him. He relaxes in his seat, the question leaving his mind while he indulged in the kiss with her. Too soon she pulls away, leaving Cuyler to lean in a bit, looking for more but she started to talk and he flushs a bit.
”Without Atkin? I thought going into the Forest was to be his lesson. What lesson do we have to learn?” Cuyler asked.
He relaxed further, completely focused on Ayra now. His fingers reached out and brushed lightly along the high point in her cheek, her hair slipping across his fingers as he did so.
”We could always stay here...now that we are alone,” Cuyler suggested.
It wasn’t that Cuyler didn’t want to go to Forest, he just had a strong dislike for it. It was enclosed, it was dark and you couldn’t see what lay around the next bend. It wasn’t like the ocean he had fallen in love with. With its wide open skies, sea life just under the waves and being able to see your next destination clearly for miles. There was the added desire of course, to remain in the Tower, to take advantage of this rare time alone but he would still go into the Forest if that is what she wanted. He would follow her anywhere.

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Amarantha hunched over, barely holding herself up as she started to expel the poison from her body. She didn’t have time to feel relief though for her heart gave a weird lurch before it started to speed up. She shut her eyes for a brief moment, focusing on her breathing so as not to agitate her heart any further. Amarantha would be damned if she let such a little thing kill her. Thankfully though, she saw Becky racing over and gave herself that little moment of relief, of hope. She had much left to do and even though she trusted her second to lead the army in the right direction, she didn’t want to give up her power quite yet. The young woman still had her friend to think about as well. Speaking of Luna, was Amarantha’s hearing starting to play tricks on her as well? It seemed Luna’s tone of voice had changed to something dangerous and reckless. Amarantha however, didn’t quite hear everything she spoke and why would she? She was a bit preoccupied.
Amarantha reached out, groping for Becky to help her onto the stretcher. Who was going to get the young commander into the infirmary? One woman couldn’t exactly do it alone and with Magyk being infected by the Sickenesse, she would need help.
”Send someone for Titan,” she breathed, hoping someone was listening. Amarantha would be indisposed for some time, even when she made it out of this hell. The lack of Magyk truly was a problem now. She would have to make sure Luna was looked after in this time and as her second, Titan would be the only one to do so and have control over the army. Amarantha let her eyes shut, hoping to conserve what little energy she had to push this blasted poison out of her body.

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Myth was thankful Bruce hid the note from the girls. They shouldn't have to worry about something like that. But she did. Especially if someone was threatening her and her own. "I'd still like him to be present, all things considered." She said as she glanced from Bruce's eyes to the note in his hands, hinting she wanted to make sure everyone was here and safe.

"Well, no matter then. We have a big day to get ready for. Is there anything you want me to get ready before your family arrives?" Myth was not a homemaker by any stretch, but she would pull out the stops to impress this big family. She wanted to get on their good side right away.

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Fleur felt ill, but she still helped bring Constance to a bed. The woman looked better, but it was a small consolation knowing she just got worse. Jezebel grew worried and Fleur waved her off. "This is nothing more than a nuisance to be dealt with. These powers are gifts to those worthy to wield them. I will not have that talk in my home. Go get Bernice and inform her of what happened. I'd like her to keep an eye on Constance.

In the meantime, I will need to plan on what to do now. We discovered something important and we may need more help, if that is the case. May whatever power curse me now for saying such things, but we may need help from those versed in Lyte Magyk." Fleur shivered just thinking about it.

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Lyra's blue-green gaze was laced with genuine concern as it flitted from the Physik woman Skaoi back to Prince Tristan. Her brows drew together slightly as he started to look really sick all of a sudden. Despite her desire to aid him, her better judgment had her loosening her grip on him, as he looked like he was about to puke. And, well, she didn't particularly want to have to pick chunks out of her hair, as selfish as that sounded given the circumstances.

Tristan lurched back, pulling away from Lyra, before pivoting around and wildly looking about for some place to vomit. As much as he would have preferred to expel the contents of his stomach in private, the body does what the body does. A flood of projectile vomit spewed out of his mouth, and unfortunately, he had horrible timing and impeccable aim. The questionable substance hit poor Princess Luna unawares as she was exiting the infirmary.

Lyra's lips thinned at the sight, and she averted her gaze as a look of disgust crosses her features unbidden. As for the princess, dresses could be washed, but that image not so much. Her gaze suddenly snapped back at hearing the words that left Luna's lips, but it wasn't just that. The tone of her had seemingly changed altogether. It was concerning to say the least. A breath escaped her as her gaze quickly flitted back over to the prince.

Tristan bent over, clutching his stomach and gagging as his throat burned. He let out a pitiful moment as he felt like complete and utter crap right then. He closed his eyes for a moment, trying to get his bearings again. After a moment or two, he slowly straightened again as he opened his eyes, his gaze landing on Luna in the midst of the aftermath. He gave her a onceover, taking in his handiwork. His face paled at seeing what he had done, while at the same time, his nose wrinkled in disgust. He was about to open his mouth in order to apologize (I promise) when Luna's words in response gave him pause. "Come again?" he retorted as he stared at her. Had he heard her correct? He believed he had. "No no, I'm just dying over here, but why don't you worry about your stupid dress," he bit out, his voice hoarse.

Lyra closed her eyes with a sigh, shaking her head at the prince's immature response. Yes, it had been rude of Luna, but it certainly didn't elicit his similarly rude remark. Then again, the princess sort of had an excuse in that she wasn't herself right then, if the change in the tone of her voice was any indication. However, that little tidbit seemed to be lost on the prince as his pride and irritability got the better of him. "Come on why don't we--LUNA!!" she began before she let out a sharp rebuke. She was absolutely horrified at what the princess said next and even more so by her seeming lack of compassion as she said it. She was certain that something was terribly wrong with her, but now was neither the time nor the place to figure it out. Instead she rushed to the prince's side.

Tristan's mouth fell agape, his eyes widening. While Luna's previous words had been like a slap to the face, this was like a kick to the gut. He unsteadily spun around on his heels and stumbled in the direction of Fyror's unmoving form. "No no no, he can't be!" he cried out. However, he soon found himself being dragged away into the infirmary by the Physik woman and with Lyra close on their heels. He fought weakly against the woman as he started to hyperventilate again, and tears streamed down his face as he was shoved down into a bent over position. He finally relinquished, giving a small, nearly imperceptible nod of his head at Skaoi's words.

Lyra's lips thinned, and the corners of her lips pulled down into a frown as she followed after them. She bit her lip as she watched from the sidelines. That was at least until she was given a command. She released her lip and nodded her head, before quickly grabbing a basin as requested. After all, she was glad to do anything she could to help. She moved swiftly across the room, placing the basin between Tristan's feet before stepping aside to let the healer do her work. She watched as the prince took a few sips of the tea, before her gaze gravitated back to Skaoi as the woman addressed her. "Of course," she replied, nodding her head in understanding. "Is there anything else I can do to help? If not, I will go inform the Queen immediately."

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@Nallore@mnkee@KazAlkemi@LadyRunic: There's good news and there's bad news. Good news is that Luna will manage to snap out of it fairly quickly, coming back to her senses and realizing what she had done. The voice is no longer in control of her, but who knows how long until Luna isn't Luna anymore again. Additionally, one of the Ordinary Wizards on bed rest went up and hobbled out, going to get Titan as Amarantha requested since they were short on help (Titan can arrive at the infirmary this post).

Between the efforts of Skaoi and Becky, Amarantha would be stabilized. Becky managed to administer the cure and thanks to Amarantha's prior exposure, she'll be on her feet soon enough. Lyra will notice what seems to be a hooded figure looking in through the infirmary window amongst the chaos. And Prince Stinky...He is in need of proper Physik. It seems he received the strongest dose. Magyk may be needed to save his life - where is the ExtraOrdinary Wizard when she's needed?

@LadyRunic: Esmerelda managed to reign in her temper, but Rhys' false words brought out fury in her. "Like I would tell you of all people what happened to my son!" she snapped. Her sweet boy - he didn't deserve any of this to happen and she detested the implication that she had abandoned him. "What have ya done to my Fayard?" she then asked him. "Fay's just a boy, ya asshole!" She was convinced that Rhys had done something to him and she wasn't about to say who his father was. This man was a stranger and now, by his words, likely a kidnapper.

@FantasyChic: Jezebel nodded, a bit reassured at Fleur's words but not quite convinced. She left the room, going to get Bernice and Bernice came back some moments later, tending to Constance. It seemed that Constance just needed to sleep for the moment. Fleur, if she wanted to, could do just about anything at the moment - yet she certainly won't feel like she wants to do much of anything, with the progression of her illness. At least things are calm otherwise. No one is bringing her any reports of impending doom for the Coven - yet.

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Arya chuckled slightly, giving Cuyler a soft smile. She was a true believer that one never ceased to learn lessons - education and the pursuit of knowledge was a lifelong task. Had this been another time, another century, she likely would have been a devout follower of the goddess Minerva - if not Trivia. And had she been born in the Land of Long Nights, Odin would have been a fitting patron. "What lesson will we learn in the Forest? Well..."

Arya closed the distance between them, bitting his bottom lip lightly. "Beyond learning if these herbs may be of any use from the Physik women, the Forest holds as many mysteries as it does dangers...Rumors of portals to other lands entirely...I am certain we can think of something to learn." She then kissed him again, her eyes closing slightly. The morning tea and its slight remedies were keeping her headache down at a dull ache. Kissing Cuyler was one of her methods of self medicating and proved to distract her from it.

She slipped her arms around his waist, running her fingers delicately on his clothed skin. She was not afraid of the Forest and it was almost the Summer Solstice - the nights were growing shorter each day and the Forest was only to be feared in the dark. She did not imagine that Fleur's Coven would be in the Forest, meaning only those rogue witches would be found. "Perhaps after we visit the Physik women, we can perform certain acts together...I imagine Atkin will be some time with the other apprentices. They've already started preparing for the Sled Race."

It was a tradition at the Castle. Each winter, all of those institutions with apprentices would select one to race a sled in a race. Wizard Tower and the Manuscriptorium tended to be the winners, locked in a constant struggle. The Boatyard, of course, also was respectable. And then there were the odd participants, such as the Dead Language's shop or Wizard Sandwiches.

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Myrus freaked out, muttering a quick prayer to the goddess Runa under his breath. She was supposed to be a protective goddess for lost souls and he certainly felt that he met that description as of late. "Baldur's daughter, granddaughter of the eternal flame, and mistress of lies...Help guide me in this perilous time," he whispered. He quickly pulled down his sleeve and put his red cloak back on, but the bleeding was too severe to be properly hidden from Valda and she had inadvertently cut off his exit.

"H-h-hey Valda..." Myrus said, putting his arm behind his back yet underneath his cloak, in an attempt to hide it. He stayed back in the dark part of the attic, trying to limit Valda's view of him. He hadn't anticipated that his sister would come up into the attic looking for him. Truthfully, he didn't know that Valda even knew where the attic was at the Palace. She hadn't lived there relatively long and he had assumed it was a safe hiding spot, especially since it was filled with cobwebs that he was certain would terrify Luna.

"Valda..." a ghostly voice then whispered in the Queen's ear. "Myrus..." the voice then whispered in Myrus' ear and he shuddered, but he couldn't see anywhere there. He just felt as if an immense cold draft had blown into the attic. "Stay safe, little ones..."

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Antonije was just laughing, looking at his little princess that couldn't handle the cold. "Alright, мала принцеза," he said with a smirk. He was used to people telling him that he was mean and he figured that Sylvi was just teasing him - and he did quite enjoy teasing her. However, he got the sense that Myth would be irritated if he didn't get out of bed soon. "Stay down here if you want, Silvija, but I'm going upstairs."

He had gotten himself dressed and wasn't currently shivering under a blanket, before he flashed her a charming smile and headed for the attic stairs. He emerged upstairs and was able to catch the second half of Myth's conversation with Bruce, noticing that his sisters had gone back to play with their devices. "Yeah, Tetka?" he asked Myth, avoiding looking at Bruce. "And shouldn't he be the one getting things ready? No offense, but you look about ready to pop and he's a freaking god."

"You are getting a bit fat, Mama," Marya informed Myth. Myth's morning sickness would now be feeling pretty severe - (post needs to reflect this) - and she'll want to likely sit down or lie on the floor and curl up or something. Either way, Bruce is going to be having to handle the housework for the moment.

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The Aricie was a vessel crafted in the Lagoon, earning coin for its owners by shuttling passengers all around the world. It primarily made the long trip from the Land of Long Nights all the way down to the the Southern Islands of the Many Shining Seas (what we would call Jamaica today). Along the way, it made stops in the Lost Land, the Lagoon, the Small Wet Country Across the Sea, the True North, and the Big Wild Land Over the Ocean to name a few.

On the ship, there was an assortment of people. Some had gone to see the sights in one of the countries along the way. Some were dignitaries going to have diplomatic appointments yet were not important enough to receive a private vessel. On the top deck, people were milling around, minding their own business, and a young individual with short blonde hair stood gazing out across the sea. The port was beginning to come into view and they could not help but be excited.

The ship's captain walked up to the girl, tapping her on the back. "Aye, lass? Ya never been to England - I mean, the Small Wet Country before, now have ya?"

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Luna just smirked ever so slightly towards Prince Tristan letting out a slight giggle, which was really unlike her at all she was about to open her mouth again to say something else. Before Lyra yelled at her, which she made her pause again and instantly snapped out of it she was completely aware at what she had said. Luna's face instantly turned bright red as she tried to avoid eye contact with just about everyone present. "Awww, I was just starting to have fun.." The Voice spoke out again in her head, it was something that she was fearing would happen having lost control in front of everyone.

As everyone was moved into the infirmary Luna started to pace around, her breathing was very heavy as she tried to fight back tears, she would occasionally stop and look inside of the infirmary. Tristan was being tended to along with Amarantha, she took the moment to look down at her dress covered in Tristan's vomit. Luna didn't know what he had eaten, but whatever made him let loose the massive gas attack Luna entered the infirmary looking towards Skaoi and Becky, and then over towards Tristan. She had a feeling that she screwed up just about everything.

Luna understood his reaction towards her when she spoke she wasn't even sure he would ever speak to her, biting her bottom lip. "I'm really sorry for what I had just said Prince Tristan.." Luna said softly if he accepted her apology and she would certainly bring up her mental illness when they were alone. "Let me out again, I promise I wont say anything stupid." The voice spoke again, Luna looked away as she took a step out of the infirmary for a moment. "Just shut up, and leave me alone." Luna muttered to herself.

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"Myrus? What did you do to your arm?" she asked as she walked over, her eyes growing wide seeing that. Valda saw his injuries, and it hurt her, knowing that he was hurting. "I came up here because I was worried about you... I've been looking for you for a while..." She was concerned about her brother, and despite knowing that it was a bad idea, she decided to try out using her Magyk anyway, without caring if it hurt her in anyway.

Her Magyk, as she had kind of expected, wasn't exactly working the way it was meant to, but thankfully she didn't make it any worse considering what could have happened or something. She wasn't feeling the best though, and she saw nothing but darkness for a split second, but her vision cleared and she could see again after blinking a few times. "Come on Myrus, let's get you down to the infirmary, okay?"

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"I think that everything will be fine Myth, you shouldn't worry about getting anything ready for my family... Honestly Nova might wreck the place herself and not have a care in the world. Her and Astrid are the two you need to worry about, since Nova runs around and is still a little kid, while Astrid loves animals and might want to show you the little zoo of sorts she's got..." he said with a slight smile.

He glanced over at Tate and just shook his head slightly. He never considered himself to actually be a god, especially since back on Asgard, he and his sisters weren't exactly treated with a lot of kindness when they were younger, basically a bunch of half-breeds, and powerful ones at that. So actually being addressed as a god was still a bit weird to him. Hearing Marya, he looked over at her, "Don't say that about Myth, got it Marya? Nothing more like it."

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"Don't leave me Tate!" she protested slightly as he walked out of the room. Sylvi still wasn't too sure what to do, since she didn't know if the people upstairs actually knew that she was even in the house. That would definitely lead to an awkward conversation, that much is for sure, considering the fact that she generally tries to avoid things like that. She had pulled the covers of the blanket up over her head before, but she poked her head out to glance around.

Sylvi was not too thrilled that Tate had wandered away, leaving her all by herself, but it couldn't be helped. He was right after all, she couldn't just stay down in the basement of the house all day if she couldn't help it. After another few moments, she got out of the covers and getting into her clothes. She was still debating about even leaving the basement yet.

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"So his name is Fayard..." The Rogue Wizard mused as he studied the furious Witch. She was angry and rightfully so, but he couldn't help but be a bit irritated she wasn't answering his questions. Still gripping the palm reader's wrists fast the man growled deeply. "Reading of your thoughts, to find the boy I into my home I brought." If this didn't work then he'd get the answers he sought another way. His eyes were cold as the spell began it's work. Showing him facts he wished he could erase from his mind as he let the Disguise Spell end.

Fayard, Badger... The boy was his son. "My son. Esmerelda. You left my son with your good for nothing brother." The dangerous tone of his voice was a sharp hiss as he whispered into Esmerelda's ear. His other hand wrapping about her throat as they tightened. "Tell me he is alive so I can kill him myself." He snarled, shoving the woman off him and standing as he released Esmerelda's throat and shook her like a rag doll. Keeping her wrists in his grasp, the Wizard shoved his hand through his hair as he let out a too soft sigh. "Close your shop for the day. I'll take you to your son, stupid wench. Our son has the Sicknesse. Something I have been trying to cure." He hissed, his green eyes dark with fury, a clear warning the woman would be wise not to test him. Not after this.

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Skaoi gave Lyra a quick nod of her head. "Please, inform her. It would not do for this Sicknesse to continue to spread. Anything we can do to stem this horror." The woman quickly turned her attention back to her patient, concern fixed over her pale features. Pulling out a handkerchief she gently dabbed at the tears. "If it is any conciliation, it appeared to be fast and he didn't- It was quick. He did not linger." Death was never pleasent, never pretty. But the poor lad out in the hall had gone quickly and didn't waste away in an agony like so many about infirmary. Her thoughts were disrupted as Princess Luna came in and apologized.

"Princess this is an infirmary, I would request that you bath and change before you enter again." The Physik practically order with a tone of deference in her voice. She was correct as the infirmary was a place for sanitary, which vomit wasn't. As she watched the woman walk away she pressed the tea cup into Prince Tristan's hand and raised it to his lips. "Drink." The woman advised as she busied about brewing together a slight compress for shock. Talking almost absently to herself, if it wasn't for the fact her pale eyes were holding Tristan's fast. "That was not a request, Your Highness. I can work and make you better but only if you follow my routine. I can fix many things, but I cannot fix what truly hurts now." Laying a hand on his shoulder, Skaoi pressed a wet cloth to the lad's forehead. "Please rest, but do not encourage or use magyk."

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The waves rolled and lapped at the sides of the ship as the Aricie plowed through the waters, her sails snapping in a breeze that smelled of salt and brine. Perched on a barrel near the rail, a book in a slim fingered hand that would belong to an artist rather than a warrior a young man studied the contents of the pages. Or pretended to. The bits and snippets of gossip flittered past like the spray of the sea. It was hardly a appropriate place to read a book, but he had sent a spare back home to his mother's clan. Plus, it was a fairly common book written by a sub-par author. It was the mind of the author- the sheer stupidity of this man- he was trying to wrap his own about. All his other books, better reads by far!, were below in the hold within his trunk. Needless to say Grimspound was grateful for the cries of gulls and the relieved sigh of those who were not so at ease with sea voyage.

Looking out over the rail with his deep green eyes, he stretched his neck and listened to the bones pop in relief. His name was Jazen Grimspound Dyrki of the Dyrki Clan. A group of women- and those men who were born into the family- who lived in the Land of Long Nights. A land that was as harsh as their ancestors. His grandmother was still a creaking old woman who was far too fast with her cane in hand then she had right to be, according to his mischievous cousins. The matriarch of the clan, the old woman had been the midwife at his birth. Not to mention she had been the one to prod him to go to the 'Small Wet Country'. He ached to feel earth beneath his feet again and though that could be achieved quite easily, he didn't want to scare the other passengers. He was not like them.

He would never be like them.

His auburn hair had begun to darken years ago, as childhood left him, turning to black. It was not a uncommon thing, a few distant cousins and people he had met in his travels hair shifted darker during the winter months or with age. Amused with the thought, Grimspound considered what he would look like with silver hair for a minute. A old, stern man striking a formal and most definitely regal pose. Of course he wouldn't have one those ridiculously long beards. Though it was an entertaining thought. Snapping his attention back to the book, the man rubbed his hand and felt young skin and saw black hair still fall through his fingers. For all he had mastered shape-shifting, it was not wise to tempt fate. Yet a friendly, if slightly cocky smile graced his features as he stored the book in jacket pocket. Small enough to fit. Fit enough to burn- though he wouldn't. Such a thing would be utterly foolish.

Standing, the man peered at the approaching Port. "A port at last, and here I was thinking of growing fins and making a life amongst the fishes." His voice was a soothing jest that was spoken more to himself than anyone else as he studied the approaching land in earnest. What would await him. What knowledge could he obtain? Already his collect was quite extensive, yet he wasn't satisfied. He wanted to know more, see more. It was a urging he could not deny. Power? It was useless without knowledge. Knowledge would grant tenfold the power. Of course that was a scholar's point of view, but Grimspound was a scholar was scholar if nothing else. Letting an arm dangle over the railing, he yanked up a small palm of salt water through magyk inherited from his father. For all he was an adult, it still fascinated and amazed him. Slowly drops spilled away til he was left with one the size of a large marble and fixed it between two hands. Shaping it to mist, water, ice and back again. Swirling the streams about like needle work as he had done when he was younger during long winter months. Absently he let the water twisted and turn as he wandered the paths of his mind bits of light reflecting off the surface into small rainbows when the liquid caught it right. Listing off what all he had heard of the Small Wet Country, and was hearing from the conversations about him.

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Her secretive playful nature never ceased to amaze Cuyler. He watched her with mild fascination as she spoke, a tease in her voice which was only confirmed when she bit his bottom lip, then continued to speak. Her teeth grazed his bottom lip and sent a tingling sensation through Cuyler from Ayra’s advance. His bottom lip tingled warmly as she spoke. His own hand slid down her side, only half listening to her words as he was still distracted from the effect that simple act had on him. Thankfully, her lips connected with his and he kissed her deeply, teasing her now by lightly tracing her upper lip with his tongue before he pulled it back in and closed his mouth so she didn’t have access.
His imagination ran rampant and another tingling sensation ran through him from her touch and her simple words of what might occur later. Cuyler’s hands found her hips and lifted the ExtraOrdinary Wizard off of her chair with ease and set her on his lap. He looked up at her now, a smile on his lips as well as in his eyes.
”Well, if you insist on going into the forest, then I guess we should,” he whispered.

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Time seemed to leave Amarantha as she was moved into the infirmary. She wasn’t completely coherent anymore so she didn’t notice when she was moved in or the fact that Luna’s demeanor once again changed. She came back to herself when liquid ran down her throat, the cure that Amarantha had demanded earlier. They sure took their time with it, didn’t they. She was feeling rather weak now but her heart found its normal rhythm again, along with her breathing.
Slowly, Amarantha turned her head to the side to observe the contents of the infirmary. There were a few wizard apprentices on beds in here, some looked like they were in the final stages while others showed possible signs of recovering. It was all confusing to her and she let the events of the last few weeks wash over her.
A mysterious Sickenesse was taking over people of Magykal ability and no one had been able to find a cure yet. Not even the ExtraOrdinary Wizard, who seemed to be showing little to no symptoms. At least, that was what the majority seemed to think. Amarantha was good at her job. She had seen Ayra when she would grab her head or her eyes when they seemed to glaze over. The ExtraOrdinary Wizard wasn’t doing as well as she claimed. The lack of Magyk was no indication. Everyone of Magykal ability had backed off. Now would be the perfect time for Amarantha to find the Port Witch Coven, she was confident they were diminished by the Sickenesse as well and it would be prime opportunity. However, she had more pressing matters within the Castle walls and Princess Luna was one of them.
Luna’s condition had seemed to be advancing, not getting better. Amarantha’s contacts had nothing to offer in by ways of cures or even a protocol to follow to limit the voices within her head. Amarantha had taken it upon herself to research more on Luna’s family history in order to discover more of the unique condition Luna was suffering from.
Amarantha tilted her head to the other side to look for Luna but it seemed she had left. Well, why would she stick around but it just meant that Titan would have to move fast so he could watch her while Amarantha was indisposed. She turned her head back and saw Titan walk in and took only a few strides to make it to her bedside. He bowed politely to his commander before he stood at attention.
”You are temporarily in-charge. If there are any changes with the Sickenesse or the Castle, come to me and inform me before you make any decisions, but anything less important then that, handle it. You are also now to look after Princess Luna until I am on my feet. Use Lennox as well if you find you can not efficiently do both tasks. And Titan, get the team up to date on poisons. We may have to bring a little more of the Young Army into them than originally planned.” Titan looked at her curiously but the words sunk in quickly. He understood the signs when he walked in and the mess outside was now making sense. His commander had been poisoned. Whoever it was, would regret it.
”Before you leave, see if Becky needs assistant bringing in Fyror.” Titan wrinkled his nose in disgust but didn’t protest as he walked away to offer his assistance.
Amarantha let out a small sigh, settling against the pillows and shut her eyes. The quicker she rested, the quicker she would recover and get back to her responsibilities.

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The salty wind whipped through Ahote’s hair while he sat in the lookout, high up the mast. Blue was all around them, blue skies with a sprinkling of clouds and even bluer water. He had been on the Aricie for weeks now, watching as the ship brought on new passengers and departed others. He learned much of the world with the changing of people but he learned most from the crew and the captain. These people who had lived most of their life on the ship, going into ports to resupply and drink themselves into a stupor before leaving. It seemed each port was in perfect location to hear all the goings on of each country.
Ahote could never keep still, so after taking time to observe and learn each part of the ship and duty of each crew member, he started to help out. Learning to tie proper knots, navigate the seas and even sail a bit. Up in the lookout though, that was where he liked to be the most. Looking down on the people as well as following his enhanced senses to find the direction they needed to be in even better than the most advanced sailors. The crew had made the mistake of asking Ahote to spar with them, restless energy from being on the sea for days and although Ahote originally refused, their goading and taunts got the best of him and he eventually complied. Well, no one lasted long against Ahote and some seemed pissed by this and others, respected the man more. Ahote was glad for the sparring, it got out his restless energies as well.
The port finally started to come into view, even though he noticed it long before the others could see it. Ahote jumped down from the lookout, jumping onto a rope and slid down until his feet hit the deck with a dull thud. He walked over to the captain of the ship and leaned on the rail beside her.
”Anything you have me do Captain?” he asked, ready to help if needed.

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As the others spoke, Myth was immediately hit with morning sickness. She almost doubled over, covering her mouth. She glared at the one girl, "I'll let the fat comment slide because I am in no state to hurt you." She hated being like this, out of commission, letting others fawn over her, but then again she was carrying life inside of her.

"Yeah, I think I need to...go..umm...unleash something. Darling, can you handle the tasks then? Sorry." She didn't like it, but she felt like throwing up so before he could answer, she sped off, to find the best place to let it all come out. This baby better be worth it by being the most adorable thing ever. Otherwise, this is not worth it.

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Fleur was, more or less, free to do whatever, but she was already feeling the effects. Constance was better so Fleur approved the use of Lyte Magyk in her head. She would have to find someone to help with research though. She would have to set plans in motion while she suffered.

She hated feeling like this. Weak. But she knew if she persisted with use of Magyk she could get worse. And she had already lost some Coven members to the sickness. She would not perish. She walked to her room and sat down, letting herself get some rest while she plotted. She would have to pursue research and that means she would need to leave. Not to mention the convoy coming to see her. It was all coming to a head soon.

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@Nallore@mnkee@KazAlkemi@LadyRunic: Tristan's health is beginning to make improvements - small improvements. The dose of the cure that he was administered for belladonna poisoning does not seem to be sufficient for how much poison he ingested. Becky ran off to the storerooms and returned with a fresh bottle - the last one, so if this doesn't do the trick then they'll have to make more.

"Should the Queen's bodyguard really be running off at a time like this," Becky muttered. "Is that not what the Young Army is for, chasing those figures..." She shook her head slightly. She then turned to Titan, seeing that he was asking to help her bring in Fyror - but they didn't have enough beds for him. "Please take him to one of the spare rooms along the Third Corridor off of the Long Walk...That will have to do for now."

@LadyRunic: Rhys' fury was matched with Esmeralda's. At the moment he had the upper hand, yet as he released her, Esmeralda spat in his face. "You think I would leave my brother alive after what he did to Fay?!" Esmeralda screamed. She held out her hand and did a bit of Magyk, a crudely cleaned skull seemingly materializing in her hand. "Meet my brother," she then said coolly. "Call me a stupid wench one last time and I will add yours to my collection." She looked at him darkly.

@FantasyChic: Jezebel couldn't help but be worried for the Witch Mother - she was the Witch Messiah and to see her suffering from this Sickenesse...If the Wendron Witches still existed, she would have placed the blame with them. Outside of the once observatory, there was the sound of horns and cornets, announcing the arrival of the convoy from the Lagoon. There were ten horses in all and on a horse of pure white sat Crown Princess Meadow Marissa Mariegolde. Her brother was unmarried and currently held the crown, King Nicholas.

"I seek counsel with the Witch Messiah," Princess Meadow called out in Myde English, though she had an accent of those from the Lagoon that was hard to miss.

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Arya felt a warmth spread over her and a yearning sensation take over as Cuyler picked her up, only to set her down in his lap. Atkin would be a while, yet she still felt it would be bold to perform such acts on the 20th Floor. She preferred to take those activities to a bedroom, without the risk of a teenage boy coming back to grab a neat Charm to show off to a friend. However as was always the case with the ExtraOrdinary Wizard, business had to come before pleasure.

"People from all lands need a cure for this Sickenesse," Arya reminded him softly. "I must go into the Forest and ask, if there is even the slightest chance that one of the herbs you recovered might be the key." She then kissed his neck, biting it lightly as to leave a mark before she pulled away. It had been a small taste but she knew she couldn't dare risk continuing or they wouldn't get anything done.

"Come on, let's be off - it will take ages walking - not using Magyk is a good precaution but I do miss just being able to Transport myself and others from location to location..."

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Myrus stared at Valda for a moment, feeling sick to his stomach. The voice that whispered in his ear and in Valda's as well - it was so incredibly familiar and his soul ached. The wound on his arm merely stung, the true pain not having kicked in yet but it would in due time. Yet what hurt more was Valda seeing him like this - he had gone up into the attic in order to seclude himself, to keep this pain a private suffering. "I...I..." he stammered. He didn't want to lie to his sister. But what was he supposed to tell her?

Yet he had prayed to the goddess Runa - she was more than just the protector of lost souls, she was the goddess of lies. He had to lie to Valda. "I-I-I was practicing with the knife...t-trying to get stronger....a-a-and a ghost Appeared to me and startled me....it was an accident..." He hoped that the Goddess of Lies would let his falsehoods ring true to Valda, but it was not his luck. The goddess didn't seem to be intervening. It all came down to the merit of his own lies.

"The infirmary is overrun, Queen Valda," a ghost drifting through the attic mentioned. Myrus nodded, looking down at his wound. "I-I can bandage it myself and Becky can look at it later..." he then said quietly.

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"Али истина је, тата!" Marya protested, rolling her eyes slightly. She didn't see what the harm was in making an observation. Myth was six months pregnant - she was going to be showing. And Marya was certain that Myth would get her figure back after she had the kid. Marya then giggled, looking at Myth. "I'm too fast for you to hurt me!" she boasted. To make a point, Marya took off running and there was a large BOOM as she broke the sound barrier. Those on Wizard Way would be able to hear the sound as well as those at the Palace.

Antonije rolled his eyes at his sister. "Требало би да се одмарате, Маrya!" he called out, knowing that odds were she was already at the outer wall of the Castle. His sisters were as quick as they were irritating sometimes. And in this particular instance, Marya had decided to be a show off. Antonije then looked at Bruce. "Do you want to go comfort your wife with an Asgardian mutant brat inside of her or should I go do it?" he said bluntly. He figured there was a chance Sylvia would refuse to leave the basement - it had been fifteen minutes since he came upstairs so he was considering going to check on her soon.

For Myth, her best option would be the master suite - the toilet flushed thanks to some mechanical contraption Antonije had designed and would provide her with the easiest clean up.

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Captain James looked up at Ahote for a moment, a slight smirk on her face. Well, there was one thing that she'd have him do but with the tiny female next to her, she wasn't certain it was the most appropriate topic of conversation. "Aye, see me in me quarters once we depart from this Port," Harlianne said with a mischievous wink. One of the crew called out to her in the tongue of the Lagoon and Harlianne nodded, saying a quick farewell to Ahote and the girl as she went below deck to deal with whatever crisis had formed.

"True North?" the girl asked Ahote, giving him a charming smile. She then gave Grimspound a friendly wave across the deck. The two of them were acquaintances, to say the very least. His appearance and the slight accent had tipped her off to his likely country of origin. "I'm Minerva - Minerva Frost," she added. Her own accent placed her as from the northern lands - perhaps the Land of Long Nights or the Strange Land or the Witch Kingdom.

She then glanced over at Grimspound, rolling her eyes slightly. Of course he was reading a damn book.

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Lyra gave a slight bow of her head in response to Skaoi, and she started to silently back out of the infirmary after taking one last glance in Prince Tristan's direction. However, just as she was about to turn to go out the door, something, or rather someone, caught her attention out of the corner of her eye. Her gaze shifted slightly, and she blinked as she spotted a hooded figure peering through the window into the infirmary. She quickly wrenched her gaze away, hopefully in time before the suspicious individual could catch her staring. She gave a quick glance around the room and a tense, solemn smile before excusing herself from the room.

Once she softly pulled the infirmary door shut behind her, she immediately took off at a sprint down the hall. Her gut told her to follow the figure, that the person could have something to do with the poisoning of two delegates and the Young Army commander. Perhaps the individual was checking to make sure the deed was done? Or perhaps it was just a gawker. Whatever the case, she figured she would rather be safe than sorry.

All the while, the world was growing hazy for Tristan. He could feel this foreign weight, a weight beyond the constriction in his chest and the ache in his stomach, pressing down on him. He forced himself to take another sip of the tea, the hopeful cure for his current aliment, even as his eyelids felt like heavy blankets. His eyes fluttered as he felt his tears being wiped away. He heard Skaoi's words, the confirmation that his best friend was indeed dead, but it didn't seem to fully penetrate him. He was just tired. Too tired. He started to slump down more as he struggled to stay conscious. He could feel his strength bleeding from him.

Another voice then came to his ears. However, the words didn't really register with him in the moment, and he couldn't really put a face to the voice. He jolted slightly as the tea cup was pressed to his lips again. He instinctively took another sip. Each swallow was a struggle, but in the end, as more of the cure circulated into his system, he could feel his strength incrementally returning to him. Very incrementally though. He absentmindedly nodded his head and laid back down on the bed.

Meanwhile, Lyra hauled ass through the corridors, her sheathed sword rattling at her side and her footfalls carelessly heavy. She made a beeline for the nearest exit and soon burst out into the Castle grounds. She would have to run the perimeter in order to make it to the outside of the infirmary window where she had seen the hooded figure standing. She hoped by some miracle that the person was still there, but in all likelihood, it was doubtful. Nevertheless, the person could have left behind clues or witnesses. It was worth a shot in the dark in her book.

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Wiping away the projectile Esmeralda had spat at him. He wiped it with the end of one of her table cloths. His green eyes narrowing as he hissed softly. "Tread carefully, Esmeralda. My apprentice- my son's life hangs in the balance of this matter and you were a fool not to seek me out when you first found out." The man studied the woman who's bed was the more effect of her charms. It was good she had that fire, he could- and would- use it to heal his boy. While he had never thought of having a child, never considered the thought that he probably did have a few bastard seeds roaming the streets. It just had never figured into his plans.

But this! This was an insult he would answer. His apprentice who was fittingly his son and thus a worthy heir to his legacy was in danger. Normally he would expect the boy to get out of it himself, but these Sickenesse preyed on all and even he was in the hazard zone. His strides beat the drum of war as his pride led the way. Casting a firm look over his shoulder as he gripped the knob with tight knuckles. His voice lightened from a snarl into a even more dangerous croon that would normally thrill a woman. "If you had, I would have seen to it you had all you desired. I still might- for him." The Rogue Wizard jerked his head. "I won't kill you Esmeralda, there are worse fates. For the sake of my son I spare you. I value his life, I won't lie on that. But be warned... If you cross me, it will not end well. Come. Your son awaits." It was not much, but at least he could try and see if the pathetic witch had any ideas. With this new revelation he would tear down the Wizard Tower brick by brick and wring the blood of every person in the Castle from their corpses to see his heir healed and well.

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Skaoi gripped Tristan as he began to lie down. The poison was still in him, and she didn't want him sleeping heavily. Her pale eyes glanced about sharply as the woman made a lunge across a table weighed down with notes, a few that went floating to the floor due to her actions. But there was a triumph gleam as the woman gripped her prize, a sewing needle. While Tristan was falling asleep making it ever so much harder to get antidotes into him, Skaoi was going to make sure he was aware enough to swallow at least. Gripping the Prince's hand she stabbed him sharply with the shiny implement namely for sewing- or in this case keeping poisoned princlings awake.

Just for good measure she gave him too sharp slaps on the cheek and pinched his nose close. Her pale blue eyes wide at what she was doing and who to! But surely his life was worth these small indignities. "Stay awake, Your Highness." The physik practically commanded as she hovered about the Prince, pressing the cup of antidote to his lips and urging him to drink. "You must drink this. Don't you dare fall asleep!" Her whisper soft voice was a calming, soothing tone that was incredibly motherly. Often people wondered why Skaoi didn't have a husband with her looks and children with her attitude, but Skaoi saw such happiness and thought she did not deserve it. Not after that fiasco.

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Grimspound's dark hair ruffled in the wind as he looked up as Minerva as her hand wove through the air in a beckon of recognition. The water and light about his hand that he had been toying with shifted as the man pulled himself from the depths of his own mind. The paths were many and curious. Each one unraveling into more questions, more wonders that he had yet to find answers for. Long legs moved him across the deck with a panther's grace. His sea legs had been quickly found within the first week aboard the ship, if only so he didn't look like a fool. The thought made Grimspound expression break out into a wry smile, as he bowed slightly awkwardly due to the tilting of the ship to the girl whose accent placed her from the northern lands. In a proffered hand was a enchanting flower like none other that could be found. The petals made from ice, and light flickering from the bud in the center. Really it was a minor feat, one that would melt within the hour at this temperatures with how fragile the ice was.

"Minerva Frost, as I live and breath." He greeted with a wink of amusement. He had met the girl before and they had shared a bit of conversation. A mundane thing really, but she was a interesting site aboard this ship. A puzzle he was trying to solve, just as everyone was. His chuckle rolled over the waves in amusement. "And my dear, you know enough of me to be well aware I shall always have a book upon my person." In fact, in a few of the taverns he was well known in (mainly those about the Dyrki village where he grew up) it was often joked upon that if he was without a book in hand, then dire things were afoot. Namely a woman was out for his skin.

Let something happen once, you hear about it the rest of your life.

Shaking his head, the man leaned against the railing and gazed up at the crow's nest and the man within. He was a handsome fellow, and Grimspound found himself contemplating seducing the man just to see what would happen. To see what made Ahote tick. "Why, you ought to come down!" The scholar called up to their lookout with a inviting grin. "Join the conversation without the rest of us getting crinks in out necks. Especially the ladies, I hear their heads can get stuck like that." The wry grin was in full force after the slight dig at the smaller girl at his side as Grimspound turned about just enough to observe the port. Soon. Soon he would have answers and more knowledge at his fingertips. There was a fire of interest in his emerald eyes as he cast a longing look towards their destination.

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Luna was shaking a lot still very traumatized at what had happened, the last several months she was in full control of herself, but right now she wasn't sure. Luna did know for one thing that she wont be herself one day, so far she couldn't find any kind of cure or treatment to at least lessen her condition. Luna looked down at her vomit covered dress, she still regretted what she had said to Prince Tristan as Luna walked over towards her bedroom which luckily wasn't that far at all. "Oh c'mon you had to admit it that what I did was very funny." The Voice spoke again.

Luna quickly entered her room and closed the bedroom door and locked it, looking down at her shaking hands and walked over towards her closet pulling out a clean red dress. "I really just want you to shut right now." Luna said with an irritated and annoyed voice as she tossed her dirty dress on the ground. Luna just hoped that the poison wasn't in her old dress, looking out of her window she could hear what sounded like some bang in the distance. But she didn't know what it was, biting her bottom lip Luna started to make sure she was presentable again. Amarantha was in the infirmary as well as Tristan, her brother wasn't anywhere to be seen, and her sister was probably busy with her courtly duties. Luna left the room, deciding to head to the Manuscriptorium maybe there was something for her to search through.

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Arnora had spent a little bit of her time in the lower decks in her quarters of the Aricie, she decided that it was time to head out to the deck and see what was actually going on there. Arnora left most of her things in her room, her trunk of supplies that she was going to be selling when she got set up in port. Arnora made her way up the steps and stretched out a little bit rubbing her eyes a little bit, she didn't really like being on the ocean she felt like she would end up falling off and drowning.

Arnora looked towards the captain and smirked slightly when she flirted Ahote, as she walked over and leaned herself up against the railing feeling the warm ocean air hitting her face. Though it did feel very relaxing and enjoyable, as Arnora looked at the woman named Minerva Frost. She did know of the woman, from the Land of Long Nights for some reason Arnora did always have a feeling that she was something like her as well. Arnora looked out at the port in the distance she was excited to get out and set up shop there, and looked at the group that was there. "So what are you all looking to do once you hit the port?" Arnora finally asked.

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She sat comfortably on his lap, close to him and his warmth, just as Cuyler liked it. He ran his hands along her back and played with the ends of her hair. Another hobby Cuyler had recently picked up. He smiled softly, looking at the hair he played with while she spoke of the Sickenesse and duty. Yes, they should be off to the forest because a cure of the Sickenesse meant a cure for Ayra. However, Cuyler couldn’t help the need to be selfish with Ayra so close to him.
She leaned in, her lips brushing along her neck before she bit him. An electric shock jolted through Cuyler from Ayra’s advances and he pulled her closer but she didn’t linger. Cuyler groaned in protest rather then pleasure. He released her hair while letting his head hang back for a moment and sighed.
”Alright. And the walking gives you time to enjoy the scenery,” Cuyler teased. He leaned up and kissed Arya’s full lips once, a promise and a hope of something more before he released her and set her on her feet. He stood up after her, stretching past his full height before he settled and gathered up the herbs he brought, back into his bag.
”We should stop at the Hefring so I can grab my bow, just encase we come across something,” Cuyler suggested. He didn’t want Ayra having an excuse or the need to use her Magyk while in such a fragile state. Besides, when it came to hunting Cuyler was good with a bow. If it was an animal after them, he would be able to take it out.

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Titan looked at Becky curiously as she mumbled to herself. She may have had nice hair but she was nuts. He took on Becky’s instruction and nodded. He glanced around the room grabbing a sheet before he left after Lyra had dashed out of the room. What exactly was her hurry? He noted that she took a turn for outside rather than to the Queen. Perhaps Titan would take it upon himself to watch over Queen Valda while he pawned Lennox off on Luna. He reached the dead guard on the ground and covered him up in such a way that he wouldn’t get his own clothes soiled before he picked up Fyror and carried him from the hall to the third corridor off the Long Walk.
Back inside the infirmary, it seemed Lyra’s not so subtle disappearance was noticed by more than just Becky and Titan. Amarantha had opened her eyes, sensing a change in the atmosphere. She watched Lyra look out the window, stare for a moment and then quickly look back. She gave the poorest excuse of a subtle smile before she ran out the door, Titan following after her. Frowning, Amarantha turned her head to look out the window Lyra had been staring out. She didn’t glimpse anything but that hardly meant a thing. The commander shifted on her bed, trying to find a more suitable position for resting. She had to be on her feet before the wedding. If Lyra was going to fly off because she saw a bird rather than watch her charge, there was going to be a problem and some position changes needed.
Suddenly there was a resounding BOOM and the Palace walls seemed to shake. Amarantha looked around, watching some loose rock and dust fall from the ceiling above. She simply settled back into the pillows. If the Castle walls were being broken down, she needed at least five more minutes of rest before she could defend. Amarantha also heard slapping and looked to watch Skaoi with Prince Tristan, she smirked in mild amusement despite all the stressful things running around in her head.
”You shouldn’t rest,” she agreed with the Physik. ”You should be thinking of who tried to poison you.” Once again Amarantha shut her eyes, listening to the sounds of the infirmary.

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Ahote smiled ever so slightly and simply nodded. Yes, there were many things he learned while being aboard a ship. Of course Ahote had many loves back home but the outside world seemed to house many different types of people. Men and woman alike. The small girl who stood on the other side of Captain James, now beside Ahote acknowledged him. She seemed to recognize his accent which caused Ahote to truly smile. He had yet to meet a single person from the True North on his journey, it was nice to see that some people did know of the place though.
”I am,” he said and held his hand out to her. ”Ahote Proudstar, pleased to meet you Minerva.” Ahote had trouble placing the young girl. She seemed to have the complexion and accent that was found more North but he couldn’t say what exact place. His mysteries would be left just as that due to another gentleman walked over. Ahote looked up at the man as he approached, he stood tall and confident. He walked well for being on a rocking ship but most people developed a certain walk when aboard a ship for weeks.
He spoke with a similar accent to that of Minerva but he didn’t hold himself the same way that she did. Perhaps they were of the same area but different lands?
As the gentleman walked closer a shimmer appeared around him, followed by an extension of his demeanor and an almost skin colour change. Ahote examined his aura, noting the red orange colour that signified that the confidence within this man did run deep. It always amazed Ahote with the different auras he could see around the ship. Back home, people generally seemed to follow the same patterns. There was not much diversity where he lived beyond what mutation they developed. The man shifted his attention to Ahote and he smirked.
”I could say the same for you,” he said looking up at the man. He was a good three inches taller than Ahote.
Soon three became four. Another woman who Ahote had seen around several times came over to their side of the deck and leaned against the railing with them. Most often she was seen below deck and Ahote wondered if she wasn’t fond of boats or so used to them that it didn’t matter what she saw, it was just water. She questioned them all and Ahote remained silent, wishing to know what adventures his fellow travelers would get up to. His water travel wouldn’t be ending here. He had a farther journey to get to, a land he had visited once already and was eager to get back to.

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Valda was a little hurt when she heard Myrus' words. He was lying to her about what he had been doing to get hurt, and now she didn't know what to do. She was worried about her little brother, and the fact that he felt that he couldn't tell her the truth, it was painful. She cared for her brother, and would do anything to help him, but if he didn't trust her, there wasn't much she could do besides prove to him that she was there for him. However she couldn't do anything about him lying, but she could let him know that she knew he was lying.

"...Myrus, I know that you are not being truthful... You are lying to hide what really happened, but... That's okay, you don't have to tell me the truth. If you don't want to... I just want you to know that I'm here for you, and you can tell me anything, alright? Now, we are going to go get you bandaged up, right now and not in this dusty attic, okay?" she said, giving him a smile. She knew that she needed to get to the infirmary to see what was going on, but she wasn't going to abandon her brother right now.

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Bruce was about to say another thing to Marya when she took off running, he let out a small sigh. Sometimes it was really hard being in his shoes, whether or not people realized it. Sure, he was this super powerful person who could likely destroy the universe if he wanted to, but it grew tiresome taking off after the speedster twins, especially since Medea took off after her sister as well with another loud boom. Well, at least both twins were out of the house, made things a little bit easier for him.

When he saw Myth go off, he didn't know what to do. This whole thing was still a bit new to him, and he was not sure what to do. Sometimes he wondered exactly how his parents had juggled having 4 kids with extremely strong super powers running around, but he didn't say anything about that. Looking over, he decided to answer Tate, "...I'll go after her," he said, before he went after Myth to see if she was okay.

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Sylvi was getting a little bit lonely down in the basement by herself. She had heard the loud boom from when the twins had taken off running, but she was waiting for the other voices to quiet down. It was a little weird to her, but she wanted to make sure that no one else in the house would really see her come up from the basement, that would definitely be a really awkward conversation that she wanted no part of at all.

When she heard Bruce leave the room, she crept upstairs and out into the main area, where Tate was. "...Well your family is definitely an interesting one... Guessing the twins took off and that was what that loud booming sound was?" she asked him. It wasn't really too much of a question, since she was pretty sure that had been the twins, but she thought she'd ask in order to start the conversation off someway.

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Myth quickly ran to the master suite, doing the very best in her power not to unleash whatever wanted to come out on to the hallway. She managed to get and get to the working toilet where she unleashed it all. How can something so small make her produce so much? She hadn't even eaten a whole lot, where the hell did it all come from?

Once she was confident she got it out, she flushed the remnants away. She sat on the floor, almost cradling the toilet for fear more would come up. She was in no fit state to do any cleaning around the house. She didn't want to sit around and have others do work for her though. She wasn't that type of person. Even with a kid, she was going to still do things. She would just be extra cautious now. Plus, for all she knew, the baby would come out with powers and can talk.

She didn't want to think of that. It kind of creeped her out.

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Myth sat on her bed, rubbing her temples. She did not regret helping Constance. Far from it. She would have done so for any of her flock (well, maybe not ALL of them). Still, she had work to do. Things to oversee. She wasn't content to sitting around. Not when there was work to be done.

Almost as if on cue, a messenger came up to her room announcing the convoy from the Lagoon was here. Fleur thanked her and got up and checked herself. She still looked damn good, Sicnesse be damned. Once she was confident she radiated power, even while sick, she made her way down and out to meet them.

"Yes, I am who you seek. Welcome to my home. Please, I insist, come in for some refreshments. Surely you are tired from your journey. Your horses are free to rest out here, I will have one of my flock assist in looking after them. Please, shall we?" She bid them entrance into her home. She was interested in what they sought her out for and it was never a good idea to be rude to guests on their first visit.

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@mnkee: Lyra will see the hooded figure running down the road that leads up to the Palace, making a beeline for Wizard Way. Wizard Way is always crowded and bustling, so it's the ideal place to vanish into the crowd. Whoever it is, they do not want to be caught. Now, she can either pursue the figure further or return to the others. She won't have much time to make her choice.

@Nallore: Luna will hear an explosion from upstairs and will be able to reach her siblings (see Myrus' post)

@KazAlkemi@LadyRunic@mnkee: Tristan will no longer have the poison within his system, thanks to Skaoi's treatments. Amarantha will have recovered as well. Becky was quiet for a moment, before she looked at Tristan. "He was the target," she said confidently. "I have to imagine the poisoning of you, dear, was an accident," she told Amarantha. "As for who would want Prince Tristan dead..." Becky didn't think she needed to finish that thought.

@LadyRunic: Esmeralda laughed at Rhys. "You would have seen that I had all I desired?" she asked, shaking her head at him. She reached into a jar and grabbed a handful of what seemed to be fertile red soil and she let it fall through her hands, back into the bowl. With the remnants that clung to her skin, she drew a mark on the palm of her hand - a Witchy equivalent of a wizard's SafeCharm. "I don't need anything that ya got, ya sick bastard," she added. "Ain't no man is gonna determine my fate for me. Now you're goin' to bring me to my boy and let me heal him. Ya ain't got a clue what you're doin'."

@FantasyChic: "Do as the Witch Messiah asked," Princess Meadow said. Her mounted guard dismounted and she was assisted from her horse, having been riding it in the outdated style of side saddle - but customs such as that still persisted in the Lagoon. She took off her riding cloak and handed it to an attendant, before she headed inside as Fleur had indicated.

"Before we begin discussion, I have brought you a gift," Princess Meadow said. She made a curious hand gesture at one of the attendants and they brought forth a dazzling rose quartz necklace, the chain made of pure gold. "I am told that this necklace belonged to a powerful seer of ancient times...But to business. I believe that we have common enemies - the Half Witch Queen of the Castle. Perhaps it is time we helped each other in order to achieve our ends."

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Arya knew that she should refrain from the use of Magyk - but a simple summoning spell couldn't hurt and she didn't want to have to detour to the Traders' Docks. It would mean doubling the time to get to the specific portion of the Forest where the Physik women lived. She also was a bit of an impatient person. It created just enough that she convinced herself one small act of Magyk couldn't hurt - and that as ExtraOrdinary Wizard, she needed to keep up appearances at any rate.

"No need, I'll have the bow Brought here," Arya told Cuyler. She closed her eyes slightly and whispered the incantation, a purple haze gathering around her hands until Cuyler's bow appeared in them. Arya relaxed, relieved that she had not succumbed further to the Sickenesse, yet she felt something drip from her nose and she lifted her hand to reveal blood. Her abdomen then started to ache, reminiscent of the pain from an extreme period.

"...To the Forest, then," Arya said, blood still slowly flowing from her nose. "I'm fine. I have gotten nosebleeds ever since I was a little girl." It was technically not a lie. She did have nosebleeds when she was younger and overextended her Magyk - once or twice.

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Myrus stared at Valda for a moment, before he nodded numbly, looking down. He didn't know what to say to her - or if he could even put into words the emotions he was having. He went to grab a small chalice he had brought up there with him a few days prior, in order to clean it and give it back to the kitchen staff, but it glowed a reddish pink and then promptly exploded. And while Myrus was the source of the explosions, he was not immune to them in the slightest.

He swayed slightly on his feet and fell to the ground, hitting a crate that began to have the similar glow and his eyes had tears streaming from them as he tried to scoot away from it, only for the crate to explode as well. His face was covered in what seemed to be ash and soot. His fine clothes were damaged and he had mild burns on his skin. "I-I-I c-c-can't make it stop..." Myrus said, his entire body shaking and his hands seemed to be surrounded with that very same glow as well.

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Marya and Medea were running around the Castle, managing to not have any issues or problems for the moment. Myth had gotten lucky as well and as suddenly as the bout of morning sickness had come on, it was gone. It was fortunate too - there was little more than an hour now until Bruce's family would arrive. Antonije then went and sat down on the couch, thinking for a moment.

"Silvija...What are you afraid of?" he asked her, moving over so she could sit next to him if she chose to, but he wasn't pressuring her to be close to him or anything. He wanted her to make her own decisions - though he certainly had the capability to mess with her mind if he really wanted to do so. "Tetka...I think she's afraid of what her baby might turn out to be," Antonije offered as an example.

"My sisters...that they won't be able to run one day..." he continued, before his eyes fell on Sylvia.

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Minerva gave Grimspound a smile in return, yet her eyes flickered to the water. She could make out the Port in the distance and she was looking forward to a respite from days at sea. It would be nice to have solid ground beneath her feet - and at any rate, she has some errands she was thinking of making while in the small society as well. She was fairly well off, coming from a powerful family lineage. "One of these days, those books will be your undoing," Minerva pointed out. She didn't care to specify exactly how.

She then glanced at Arnora, giving her a slight smile as she considered her question. "I heard rumors of a haunted establishment that the dreaded Fleur La Mallificum inhabited - it could be interesting to examine the house." She then glanced back at Ahote, giving the taller man a smile. "Perhaps you all would care to join me? I wouldn't imagine it'd interest you Grimspound - there won't be any new or exciting texts there I imagine."

Deep below, in the lowest deck, there were ten inches of water. Harlianne looked at it for a moment, her boots glistening now from the water they had touched. Her ship was sinking. "Aw, fuck me."

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As Luna left her room, she started to think that maybe heading back to the Infirmary to explain somethings to Prince Tristan, he had the right to know everything now. Since she had said things that were certainly very out of character to her, and she did feel bad that he had lost his friend as well. But she could also have Amarantha explain things since she was her closest friend that knew of her mental condition. Luna sighed as she stood there and started to think what she wanted to do, she also did want to tell Myrus and Valda about it as well.

That's when she was taken out of her thoughts as she could hear an explosion going off, and by the sounds of it was coming from upstairs as Luna started to slowly search for where the location was. Luna stopped and saw the attic entrance that would lead upstairs, the curiosity getting the better of her. Luna started to make her way up the stairs until she was in the attic and stopped to see Valda and Myrus there as well. He was on the ground she noticed his glowing eyes and hands, she took a step over towards her sister and brother biting her lower lip as she thought of something. "It looks like your little brother is making his accidents again." The voice said again.

Luna completely ignored it trying her best not to lose control again, she wasn't sure what to do Luna made sure that he was out of reach of anything her brother would explode. "Dear brother, just take a few deep breathes try and relax." Luna said in a soothing voice, as she tried to help him relax.

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"It's nice to meet the three of you, i'm Arnora." Arnora said to the three others and gave them a friendly smile as she tried to avoid looking down at the water right now. Her attention turning more towards Minerva as she answered her question about to examine the house where the Witch Messiah had used as a home previously. "Ah yes, I remember there was a pretty gruesome battle there in the Port House that they used." Arnora said as she looked at the other two men that were there as she thought about Minerva's offer, she didn't really have any big plans anyway.

"I certainly wouldn't mind tagging along that's if you don't mind having me. And since you are going there, I can certainly make contact with the spirits there as well I am sure they have interesting stories to tell." Arnora said giving a slight smile, one of her abilities that she was gifted with seeing the spirits of the dead that would linger there for the next year and a day. She could certainly hold off on trying to sell off her goods for a little side adventure.

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As Lyra rounded the perimeter, she caught sight of the hooded figure making his/her escape down the road that lead to the Palace. The look of determination in her blue-green eyes darkened as her gaze locked onto the figure. She pushed her body harder and faster, her breaths coming in and out sharply as she went into full out pursuit. However, a glint of desperation soon flashed in her eyes, breaking her focus slightly, as she saw the figure make a beeline for Wizard Way. There was no way she could easily keep up with the person in the thick crowds. As much as she didn't want to admit defeat and as much as she wanted to avenge Tristan and Fyror right then and there, it wasn't lost on her that she had abandoned her post long enough already.

"Dammit," she hissed through gritted teeth as she came to a skidding halt. She watched a bit dejectedly as the figure continued on into Wizard Way. She took in a deep breath, closing her eyes for a moment and giving a shake of her head. She let out a small sigh, before turning back around and heading back the way she had come. She needed to get back to her charge, the Queen, and let her know all that had happened. Maybe then they could go out and search for clues and witnesses, or she supposed appoint someone else to. She retraced her steps to the infirmary but continued on past it. The last she had seen Queen Valda the royal had been about to head up to the attic in search of Prince Myrus. So, that's where Lyra was headed. She soon made it to the stairs leading to the attic without a hitch.

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Tristan's eyes began to flutter closed the moment he rested his head back onto the bed. He vaguely felt the Physik woman grip him, but he effectively ignored her as his eyes were too heavy with exhaustion. However, what the woman did next was much harder to simply ignore. He felt a sharp prick in his hand, followed by too harsh slaps across the cheek and his nose being pinched closed. He suddenly bolted upright, jerking himself out of her grip. "Freakin' HELL!!" he loudly cursed, ending in a bit of a growl. Once the initial shock and pain wore off, his blue eyes turned to Skaoi to level her with an icy glare. He roughly shoved the tea cup aside. "You said to rest, so I was resting," he retorted through gritted teeth, ignoring her concern for the sake of remedying his pride, or at least what was left of it.

His gaze turned sharply at Amarantha's words, simmering slightly when his gaze met hers. He wasn't stupid enough to try his luck with the princess's body guard. He took a deep, hopefully calming, breath before speaking again. "Probably the ones who my kingdom are at war with, the Eastern SnowPlains," he answered her, trying his best to keep his voice from sounding patronizing. He pointed a thumb in Becky's direction at the other Physik woman's words. "There you go," he stated matter of fact, before he disgruntledly took the damn tea and drank some of it.

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He had never wanted to strangle the woman more than he did on the way back. Weaving through buildings and taking sharp turns, he doubted he would distract her from her path. She'd find her way back like a stubborn bitch. Most likely he would need to buy another shop and loft combo, lest Esmeralda become a constant harpy. If the woman didn't join him, if she turned against him or worse! Turned the boy agianst him! Rhys rolled his shoulders as he stumped up the steep steps to his loft home. "I'm not trying to determine your fate, Esmeralda. If I was, then I would know far before now that you bore me a child." The heat was out of his voice as he unlocked the spells and opened to door. Letting himself in first. "No. Fayard is my son as well and more his is my apprentice. I will do what is best for him."

And to hell what she thought. Shutting the door firmly behind him as he gripped the witch's arm lest she bolt towards the boy, Rhys reapplied the locks and safeguards to his home. "Bar this door. Charm Lock it all. Conceal my entry." Giving the witch a warning look, he hissed in a dangerous voice. "Let me speak to him first, Esmeralda. Better it comes from me." Letting go of her arm, he crossed to room to sit on the edged of the bed, his boy- his son- had been bound to. Filling a cup of water he held it to the two toned eyed lad's lips. "Drink, boy. I've some news for you that will a shock, but first... How are you feeling?" His words were quiet and gruff but he ran a cloth over the boy's forehead, sharp eyes peering at his face. No matter what he said, the Wizard "I found out somethings about your life before the Young Army." His eyes shooting a warning look that Esmeralda might do well not to test him right now. Not with his son- Fayard- in such condition.

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Skaoi flinched as Tristan swore loudly after she stopped him from falling to the oblivion of sleep. Something she feared he would not wake from. How often had she seen such? The final ease into a sleep during a dire healing where the patient would slip away. The glare that came from the Prince made the Physik take a step back as her own pale blue eyes dropped in fright. He was a Prince! A Royal! And she had pricked him like any fabric she was embroidering! Of course it was for his own good, but her hands shook slightly as she bundled them into her dress. "My apologies, I thought it best you remain awake." The woman stammered in fright.

It was for his own good, she thought. Even with assassinations and everything, she was doing her job. Surely they could not blame her for that? But Prince Tristan's next words sent ice spearing into the pale woman's heart. The color she could ill afford to loose draining from her face. The Eastern Snow Plains had done this?! They were suspected at least. The cup in her hands- she had been getting another for the woman leader of the Young Army- crashed to the floor in splinters. Tea running in rivers across the floor as she looked up sharply. Her eyes wide with sheer terror, before she lowered them. Shuffling to a broom and began to clean the mess. Anything to hid the shaking of her hands. "Forgive my carelessness." Would they suspect her now? She was new here and worse she was from the Eastern Snow Plains! A noble woman who disguised herself as a peasent physik! What would they think? Would this assassin try to pin it on her?! After finishing cleaning the mess she had caused, the physik huddled over her notes. Trying to disappear in the background as she fought back the panic. Her hands shaking as she considered the next steps for the patients they had, though it was hard to focus on that task.

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The laughter that echoed from the tall son of the Dyrki rolled across the waves as Grimspound tossed his head back in sheer amusement at Minerva's comment. His emerald green eyes danced as the scholar grinned at Ahote and Arnora with a friendly smirk. "Apparently all I am good for is reading books and being admired." The man scoffed giving Arnora a wink that bordered on flirtatious and Ahote a smile that could only be called an invitation to bed when paired with his far more sly wink. Offering a hand to each of his new acquaintances, Grimspound listened to their plans for when they would land. It appeared there was a house- home to the Port Witch Coven- that appeared to be abandoned due to a recent upheaval in the city. While he did care a great deal for books, it was not his only focus. Curiosity gnawed at the wanderer as he considered what might be found at such a place. "Grimspound, they call me." The man introduced himself firmly to both, before shooting the shorter Minerva a look of bemusement. "I do not doubt books will be my end, and hopefully when I'm old and with a beard that falls to my feet! Why! I hope to be buried in books! But I do have other talents as well, my dear. I shall join you so you might find me less than lacking." If she had a braid he would have been sorely tempted to tug it like he did with so many maids. Giving them a boyish grin to escape retaliation.

Yet something tugged his interest away from teasing Minerva, green eyes snapped with wonder upon Arnora. "You are a Spirit Seer?" He had heard of such folk but to meet one was rare. A true find! Though it wouldn't do to chatter at her relentlessly over it, such a tactic was off putting and usually never yielded as much with the more martial of folk. A few questions slipped here and there slowly built up over time, something he had plenty of, would do just as fine if not better. "Would you do me the honor of allowing me to buy you a drink sometime, Arnora? I'd love to hear your take on it." Perhaps knowledge would be his undoing but Grimspound could think of worse ways to go. To die in defense of his people, in defense of his father would be just as well. Though the latter was hardly in need of such a thing. The man could take care of himself quite well, yet Grimspound had been raised to respect and heed his elders. His defense of them just became natural after protecting his mother's clan.

And speaking of protection... Grimspound paused as he considered the waves with sharp eyes. Something seemed... off. A disturbance he couldn't place. He had lived a good few years on the road and in his mother's clan hunting the wilds before that. Tersa had taught her son to heed that gut feeling. The instinct that dwelt within him. As the man waited for Arnora's response as he absently sent out a spell to alert him of danger. Turning his attention back to the woman, he then turned his gaze over the waves as the spell bounced back with a alarming sense of danger. It wasn't immediate but it was there. "I hate to bring a low mood to the discussion but there seems to be some serious trouble afoot." His cocky smile and tone could make it as though he was remarking on the weather rather than a screaming alert that there was a problem. It wasn't immediate and while he liked to deal with problems quickly... He was in the middle of conversation with a Spirit Seer. A rare opportunity. "So about that drink?"