[IC] The Trick to Magic

[Genkai]

~ & ~

Quickened footsteps pattered across marble floors which resembled a lifeless ocean. The floor was a deep somber shade of grey with cracks of dark navy blue and specks of brown and emerald. The colors had been purposefully selected so their darkened tone wouldn't conflict with the rest of the room's bright collection of colors and sights. A woman came to a stop and glanced around the large circular theater. This had been her home for the past twenty-five years. It knew secrets and it knew lies, and for that Gardenia was thankful that buildings were unable to gain sentience and talk about their inhabitants. The pink haired woman turned around in a full circle, her light colored eyes unable to locate the person she was fervently searching for. "Father?" She called out. Even though she was twenty-five and by all accounts capable of living on her own, she felt it impossible to lave the lavish place she called home.

Gardenia and her father lived on the outskirts of the large city and they lived without relying much on the technology around them. Simplicity was an art they continued to practice while the rest of the world coveted convenience. While other families clung to their devices and drones and robot servants, Gardenia and her father enjoyed cooking for themselves and cleaning up their own messes. Gardenia found it relaxing and her father claimed that doing honest hard labor enabled his own inventions to prosper. His inventions were in the opposing direction of today's society. He worked hard to bring back the magic of old, magic that gave nature life. All trees and insects were synthetic, only harnessing artificial life. It was soulless despite being considered revolutionary and splendid.

The place she called home was a rather fantastic stone castle, situated near several speedy highways. While cars now able to go and on off the ground at will, the highways by their home weren't often frequented. And even if folks did stumble upon her safe haven, they would see nothing but a collection of unimpressive piles of metal and iron. Her father, a true visionary had been able to bend both space and time to allow for those who were unable to use old world magic, to only see piles of materials. Gardenia almost pitied those blinded by science, those would count not see the magic that was really in front of them. Scientists had long ago given up interest in botany and zoology. Animals and plants were now created in a lab, able to function by wireless power and cues. And yet at home, Gardenia could freely interact with animals and tend to plants that were natural, full of actual life and potential.

The circular theater's long floor to ceiling windows were framed by bright red drapes. There were many suspended ribbons and bars all meant for people to play with and yet Gardenia had been left to entertain herself many nights while her father toiled away in his laboratory beneath the castle's ground level. Gardenia had been waiting for friends, those who could relate to her desire to see old magic make a true comeback. Her father had gone out to retrieve those five souls she longed to meet. As a teenager she would go down to her father's lab and beg him to let her look at their files. Her father had selected kids after his own test on Gardenia had gone well without any hiccups. Gardenia fawned over the files and fantasized about her future friends and what sort of dazzling spectacles they could create to win the world over.

But now she had to wait for her father to arrive. The Visionary had kidnapped five children when he had been able to spot them out and about without supervision. He had been able to detect and disable the nearby cameras so he could get the child alone and insert a colored shared into their forehead. The shard would act as a rod to absorb all of the child's magical power and channel it into an element that had become lost in time. The children were only gone for under twenty minutes and for the most part barely remembered it had even happened. If parents did take their magically stunted child into a doctor, the shard would be undetectable and go unnoticed by current medical sciences. Gardenia's own shard was now active and a light black glint could be seen in her own forehead as she dashed back between the rows of plush red velvet seats and went back into the rest of the house.

Back in the sprawling bustling city, Hale Westlake had just exited a woman's penthouse, having just finished a consultation on a new headpiece. He had talked her into some pastel colors which were different from the muted whites, greys, blacks and browns that most people wore. To people fashion was superfluous and lacked any sort of personal taste. Hale loved looking at old books and videos that showcased how people once dressed, how clothes were one a personal statement as opposed to a means of dull conformity. Hale rounded a corner and felt an arm grab around from behind. Another arm came around and injected him with a needle filled with a murky substance. Before he could recognize the danger he was in, the blond twenty-two year old went limp and was soon carried off to a large white van where four other unconscious bodies were stashed.

The Visionary, a man in a black tuxedo sporting a white lab coat and tall top hat, got into the driver's side of the van and hurried back down to his humble abode. Gardenia stood in front of the stone castle as an unmarked white van began to appear in the distance, rumbling closer to the mythical structure. She greeted her father with a customary curtsy and helped carry the people inside. The five people were taken back into the heart of the castle, the large theater. They were settled into the front row of center stage seats while Gardenia went to go get changed. Her father made his way back out to the foyer of the home which served as a lobby of sorts for his private venue which he intended to show off during his first broadcast. But for now, introductions and of course training, were in order.

Gardenia reappeared in a black and aqua pinstripe blazer and black top hat. She had on black pants and had on bright golden heels. As the five guests began to stir a lively tune filled the large room, its walls etched in gold carvings. Raising her arm, her black shard sparkled as she was lifted up in the air by a stone pillar. The pillar then detached itself from the glossy marble floor, which remained untouched and pristine, and levitated the pink haired woman in the air. "Welcome everyone to the first show of many to be held." She spoke clearly, though there were butterflies in her stomach. She only had her father as a faithful spectator until now. Sure, she preformed in coffee houses for a laugh but never had she shown off her rock powers to anyone before and she was eager to make sure to make a solid impression.

Blinking, Hale looked around him and saw he was no longer on the street but instead someplace much more...lavish. He looked up and saw a large dome shape as opposed to a typical shade of grey. All homes were plain and basic, never keen to show of individuality but as he felt himself gathering his wits, he heard a loud voice call out to him. Hale suddenly noted that he was with several other people as well. He felt his legs far too heavy to lift him out of his seat so he sat and turned his attention to the woman in front ot him who raised a black baton made of rocks. "Wh-where are we?" He asked, trying to find his voice. He coughed slightly, his throat feeling rather dry and in need of some sort of refreshment.

Gardenia waved her wand of sorts and five chunks of rock broke off from the rock carrying her around the stage. These five rocks were directed above the heads of the audience and flew back into the depths of the castle. They soon flew back and hovered in front of the five guests, each rock balancing a golden goblet of ice cold sparkling water. "Where are my manners? It's an honor to meet all of you after so long. They say patience is it's own reward but if you ask me, magic is a reward time has simply turned it back on." She declared. Hale looked at the rock. He had never seen a real one before. All the rocks he had seen were just for sure, usually hollow. Buildings were made of metal and iron and other sturdy elements, nothing natural. It was odd but also intriguing. He waved his hand under the rock and took the offered drink with the other.

"I'm sorry," He paused to drink. "Have we met before?" He asked her. "Who are you? Where are we exactly and how are you doing this?"

Gardenia jumped off the levitating rock, doing a flip in the air before landing safely. She peered down at the five souls. "My name is Gardenia and my father and I have been eager to meet and train you for almost ten years, give or take depending on who you are." She didn't want to get into silly details though. "You're all at our estate, my father a true visionary, has selected each of you and bestowed upon you a magic. This magic is a privilege to have and it is with that, that we will reawaken this slumbering world of robots who have forgotten to live with purpose, with flair!" She raised her hands above her head and then dropped them, clenching her hands together. "You all may have fretted about not not fitting in like your peers but we assure you, you are very special and very talented."

"Woah woah woah. Slow down there um-"

"Gardenia."

"Yeah. Right." Hale sighed. "Can you slow down?" He asked her.

The woman pressed her lips together, not happy about how things were going. She glanced off as the music faded away. So far, she didn't think she was making a great first impression. "Sure, Hale." She tried to collect herself before she rewound slightly. "My father gave you all shards, like mine." She pointed to her black one which glittered when light hit it. "These give you magical powers that haven't existed for thousands of years. His hard work paid off and it is with your help that we show the world what magic can do. That magic doesn't need to have a purpose in order to create something." She said. "You have all endured much shame and sadness and isolation but that struggle is about to pay off. We are part of a new era. You Hale, you can make water. Real water! It's not clouded by other chemicals, it's pure water!"

She then turned to the others, "William, you can summon animals. Birds, boars, bears, animals who are akin to your heart, follow your command. Lola, you can summon plants and flowers, things that aren't made of plastic. And you, Cynthia, you can use fire. Fire, the thing which humanity was built upon! And Luca, you have a fluid magic found in air, you can do so much with it. You can create winds or float, gravity no longer restrains you." There was an immeasurable sparkle in her grey eyes as she spoke. She hopped off the marble stage and onto the matching marble floor, now closer to the five. "As you can see, I rule over rock, a very formidable talent." She smiled to them. "If you decide to stay and train with us and be in our show, you are free to live here and we'll take care of you and everything else. We're a family. We're connected." She looked to them nervously.

Hale cleared his throat, it was a lot to take in.

"So...how do we use these powers?"

"We just have to unlock your shards and begin training." She replied, grateful he was being more receptive. "The day is nearly done, we can start after dinner if you'd like." She looked to everyone, eyeing their faces trying to gauge their reactions. "If you do wish to leave, you walk away from a life of wonder and acceptance. The world is cruel and it has forgotten what made it so warm and compassionate." She said quietly. "Our world covets those who conform and ridicules those who show a sign of individuality. My father and I wish to show the world that magic can be different, that magic is something that can unite and entertain us, not simply be a means to an end like building a house." Gardenia concluded. "If you need more time to think about it or ask questions, dinner should be done, I can show you all to the dining room." She offered.

The blond in the glasses looked to the others before he gave Gardenia a smirk, "I had enough time growing up to decide what I want. I'm tired of being misunderstand and mocked. You can count me in for whatever crazy show you have in mind. I'm pretty interested to see what I can do." To learn he wasn't born without a talent, to learn he had potential and didn't deserve mockery, meant the world to him. Hale wanted to see if he could move beyond what society dictated. And since paying rent was becoming difficult to cover, as he suspected his landlord was hiking up his rent because he didn't have any magical skill. Hale thought a change in venue and now even a change in career, might be what destiny was actually had in mind for him.

[Sterling]

Her head ached, and the first thing Cynthia was really aware of was the heaviness of her limbs. An annoying and sharp sound was making her head ache all the more and she wished she could just make it stop. She needed quiet. Slowly the brunette could feel her eye lids peeling apart, but the sight before her was too harsh, too bright. Quickly she closed her eyes again and tried to remember what was happening.

She had been leaving a ‘clients’ house, a man had approached her on the street and Cynthia had turned away, not wanting to interact with another human. Something had pinched her neck and… And then what? She couldn’t recall, which indicated something bad had happened. People didn’t just faint for no reason. Had one of her clients decided they wanted her all to themselves? That seemed unlikely… Well…Not entirely but it seemed unlikely they’d drug her and drag her off to…

Where was she? Trying to open her eyes again she still found the sight garish and unsettling, but looking around Cynthia at least knew she was not in any of her client’s homes. It was too bright here, and the music blaring too loud. A woman with pink hair pounced before Cynthia and the thought ‘she is most definitely not my client’ came to her before a speech was given. All about how important they could be, how their trials and tribulations had been inflicted by this ‘visionary’. And while Cynthia’s arms and legs were not functioning as they normally would (she attributed this to the drugging) she had the ability to frown and look around. She was sitting in a plush chair, others in similar states of confusion and recovery strewn about. The brunette ignored the water hovering before her, eyeing the stone levitating. While it was something she had never seen before the whore could not forget the under lying message.

She had been abducted, drugged, and if the pink haired woman was right, this man…her ‘father’ was also the reason why Cynthia had never gotten her powers like the rest of her peers. Why she had needed to master the craft of sly smiles and fluttering lashes, of tight fitting clothes and seductive looks. Why she had never been taken seriously in her life, not for a single moment, why her brain and her work never mattered and why it was easier and more profitable for Cynthia to make money ‘playing nice’ than using her education.

Anger and hatred boiled under Cynthia’s skin, her dark eyes narrowing in suspicion and dislike. The pink haired ridiculous woman said they could leave, but Cynthia found that hard to believe. If they were ‘free’ then they wouldn’t have been taken so unwillingly in the first place. This woman and her father had stolen Cynthia’s childhood and her future all at once.

It was with surprise that she heard the blonde man agree to playing along. Did he not understand what was happening? He was a hostage, a victim, not a friend, not a guest. Guests were not drugged before entering someone’s home. But Cynthia could see the glint of hope in his face. His life had been less than… Less than everyone else’s. Cynthia knew that look because she had it too. Less attention, less appreciation, less consideration, less status, less money…Less. But how could he just take this pink bitch’s word and move on? How was he not feeling hate and disgust and even fear?

Cynthia’s mind whirled to come up with an answer. He could be simply slow minded… Overly trusting… Perhaps simple? He could be playing nice until the opportunity to escape presented itself. That would make sense… Even though Cynthia was angry she could not bely the floating rocks before them. The pink woman…What had she said her stupid name was again? A flower? Daisy? …Gardenia. That was it.

Anyway, Gardenia could easily crush them should she wish. Yes. The man must be pretending to agree and finding it all exciting and not deplorable so that he could find a way out without becoming minced meat.

Or he was dull minded. But Cynthia was not and so she held back the retorts she wanted to make. She wanted to point out that if they were friends and guests then they should have been treated that way, not kidnapped and drugged and who knew what else was done to them. She wanted to scream at the pink haired harpy that if she was telling the truth then Gardenia and her father had condemned five innocent unknowing children to a lifetime of disappointment and ridicule. Had taken Cynthia’s bright future and set her instead on the path that was long, twisted and dark. That she had turned to means that anyone would sneer at, and anyone would feel their self-worth sinking by the day. What had these other victims succumb to in their lives? No one staring up at Gardenia looked proud, overly cared for, rich… None looked like their lives had been easy and pleasant as they should have been.

But Cynthia bit her tongue. She needed escape and she’d wait for it. She’d bide her time. She’d lived through worse, this was just another hurtle in her already difficult life.

[Panic]

The melodic chime broke Lola out of her trance and dragged her back to reality. The young woman was up on the hundred and seventeenth floor looking over the city and everyone bustling around busy with work. She liked being up so high, invisible from everyone else and able to pretend, even if just a moment, that she was a part of their world. Because the truth was, she wasn’t. She couldn’t contribute like everyone else, and that made her a burden on society. But when she was up here, looking at the zeppelins floating by and cars zooming below, she could pretend.

A little nudge at her foot and a blinking red dot on the little robo-maid at her feet demanded her attention again. Lola bent down, quickly scrolling through the screen to find what error message had sent it her way.

Error 357: Lint Trap

Damn, just routine maintenance. Lola liked when she got the rare error messages, ones that would take most of her time to fiddle around with to figure out the problem. But the lint traps were a simple fix. “Come on little guy, I got you,” she said before heading towards the elevator and the service room. A quick swap of a filter and he’d be back on his way. There was already an older woman and a young boy on the elevator. Normally, Lola would have just grabbed the next one, but the robo-maid had already sped on and parked itself in the corner. She gave the two a small nod and smile, before joining in as well, pressing for her floor. Her fingers fidgeted with her uniform nervously.

“What’s your element?” chimed the little boy abruptly. Lola wasn’t sure he was even asking her, as she looked quickly from the boy to his mother. The older woman just gave her a warm, motherly smile, and apologized.

“Sorry dear, he’s just learning about elements and their jobs at school so he’s been asking everyone.”

“Oh,” Lola said quietly, looking back at the floor quickly, not answering the question. Twenty more floors. Come on...faster…

“Is it Alumieum?”

“Aluminium,” his mother corrected him.

“A-lu-mi-num,” he repeated slower.

“Uh no…I can’t...it’s not aluminium,” she said quietly now begging the elevator to hurry up.

“Well what is it?”

“I uhm…” Lola said looking back at the boy and the mom again. She didn’t want to lie, but they were waiting for an answer. Lola’s mind went blank as she tried to recall the table of elements again. “I don’t have one…” she finally admitted, her face flushing red. The boy just gave her a puzzled look.

“You know, my cousin had a hard time figuring out hers. They went to a specialist and found out it was Unupentium which has such a short life so you can imagine how difficult it was to recognize. She’s got a job working with a couple of labs though, helping create them without the collider. Maybe you should go and see a specialist,” the woman offered trying to help. It was unheard of that people didn’t have elements, so Lola understood why the woman thought maybe Lola hadn’t looked hard enough. But she had seen specialists, done all kinds of tests. Hours upon hours of going through each element, each table trying to get something that worked. “A special case” they had called her. The older she got though, the less she agreed to continue the tests. It was a waste and every bad result was slowly turning Lola more and more bitter. She was a freak and that was that.

“Uh yeah, that’s a good thought. Maybe I will,” Lola answered softly, straining a smile before the elevator finally offered her a reprieve. She quickly got off, the boy still giving her a confused look. Lola felt tears prick the back of her eyes as she heard the boy ask his mother if he wasn’t going to have an element and the all too familiar reassurance she gave back.

But just as she was opening the door to the service room, the robo-maid chiming beside her again, she heard someone come up behind her. Before she could turn around and see who it was though, her world faded to black. The last thing she could remember was the chime of the lint error.

---

That isn’t the hotel ceiling, thought Lola, still in a haze. The ornate dome was still spinning into focus as Lola fought off another wave of drowsiness. It reminded her of the time she was given anesthesia when she went in to have her appendix removed. But that was silly, she wasn’t having surgery. She was at the hotel, right? Her thoughts were muddled and fleeting. Every time she thought she caught one, it fluttered away in a warm fuzz. The sound of music and stirring helped her focus though, and soon she was able to look around a bit more. Yes this was definitely not the hotel.

Lola quickly wiped away a bit of drool pooling on the corner of her mouth as she tried to sit up unsuccessfully. Every movement was heavy and like moving through syrup. Her attention was quickly enamored with the young woman dressed in flashy clothing performing unimaginable feats in front of her. Lola was entranced by it all, confused but completely captivated. She drank the water offered to her grateful to quench the cottony feel.

It was all Lola could do to keep up with the rapid fire question and answer session occurring beside her. One of the other people located in the seats around her was interrogating the flashy woman who introduced herself as Gardenia. Lola didn’t immediately register that they were talking about her, about the pain and suffering she had gone through without magic. But she was claiming now that she had the ability to summon plants and flowers. Lola hadn’t seen non-plastic plants outside of the small gardens that were used in one of her biology labs. But that was crazy, plants weren’t an element.

Lola gave the blonde in glasses a confused look as he quickly accepted the offer. But he made a lot of good points and the offer was enticing. But what was that saying, if it was too good to be true, it probably was. It was then the realization hit. She said her father did this. He took away her powers. She grew up resentful and bitter because of a shard? “You…” Lola started, her voice cracking. She cleared her throat and tried again, but stopped herself. She had offered to let them go, and return. Now that she knew about the shard, maybe if it was removed she would finally have her magic. But she could leave later, after at least giving it a shot, right? It wouldn’t hurt to see if the offer was valid. Plus, she wasn’t going to be alone anymore, there were others just like her.

“How do we unlock the shards? Can we do it now, before dinner?” Lola asked, her voice bubbling with excitement she hadn’t felt in years.

[FernStone]

"Hope you have a nice day!" Luca gave a slight wave to the young girl who ran out of the small shop he worked in, ignoring the disapproving glances from her parents. He was used to that by now. Many people distrusted the bread and cakes made by human hands, rather than manufactured by robots.

Having worked and help run this place for four years Luca could safely say they made the best baked goods. Most didn't understand it but bread made by hand, fresh out of the oven and nurtured, was just better than the carbon copies robots made. It was the enticing smell of this very shop as he had passed it in his last few years of school that had made him consider it as a career. He enjoyed it well enough if he made himself focus entirely on it. Wasn't exactly lucrative, though. He couldn't even afford his own apartment and had to live with his older brother (his parents wouldn't have him).

"You can take your break now, Luca," his co-worker, Kieran, walked out to the store front. With the power to manipulate the more useless element of Scandium and being a bit of the odd person the man had decided to be a baker instead of having to find a niche job. It suited Luca to work here.

"Sure thing, boss," Luca gave a slight smile, wiping his hands on his apron as he headed to the back. On his way to the smaller room he checked on the in progress dough just to make sure it was proving properly. With no visible problems he made his way into the break room, humming merrily to himself. Today was a good day. They'd gotten a few customers and he'd finally figured out how to make some fancy bread he'd only seen pictures of before. The new product would be sold from the next week - a very exciting prospect! And he'd only gained a few odd looks when he had been jogging to work. It was looking to be a nice day indeed. For once he could ignore the fact that he was a societal reject.

Not one to sit still, Luca hopped up and went to stretch on the floor. He had always enjoyed exercise - it gave him a great way to channel his near boundless energy. He knew his parents had never particularly approved but, as his brother put it, he was less of a pain and less annoying when he was tired.

So caught up in what he was doing he didn't even notice someone entering before he  lacked out.

---

When Luca came to in an unfamiliar place, with unfamiliar people, he couldn't help but look around with a certain amount of fear. Why on earth was he here? Why would anyone want to kidnap him? He doubted it was for his baking abilities. Most people didn't kidnap to get some free bread. He couldn't think of any other qualities he had.

There was something appealing about the room they were in; bright and colourful it was so unlike the drab homes he was used to. He liked it. The colours were energetic and that suited him just fine. Then the woman, dressed in clothes as wonderful as their surroundings, started to move rocks as if it was an everyday occurrence. Luca's jaw dropped as his mouth formed a small o shape. Real rocks were another new thing - nevermind controlled by someone. He took the water gratefully and chugged it with the arms he could just now move, sluggish from being drugged.

Gardenia, huh, that's a nice name, the dark haired boy mused as she introduced herself and he tried to keep up with the conversation. He didn't get all of it but his mouth only furthered widened, along with his eyes, as he listened.

He could control air. He had a power. It wasn't a normal one but something more exciting. Imagine what he could do with it! The thought of being able to fly appealed to him. He'd always liked climbing and high places, there was a certain thrill to them. Now he had a power to enhance that.

He barely heard one person, a glasses wearing male, agree to join and another, one of the two girls in the audience, ask if they could unlock the shards before dinner. He jumped up on slightly unsteady legs, blue eyes shining.

"I can't wait to start! Getting to unlock the shards and try out the powers would be nice... you have a really nice theatre here, I really want to try some of your trapeze bars. I really love sport and acrobatics, also climbing, so they look perfect," Luca started rambling animatedly, eyes lit up with excitement. "This is all so exciting. Though dinner will also be good, I can understand wanting to wait until that. Don't want anyone to pass out on an empty stomach. How do you make your dinner? Do you do it yourself. I don't imagine you have any robots around here... I was a baker so I can help with making bread and pastries and cakes! They're pretty good and fun to make. I wonder if I can-"

Luca cut himself off, realising that he had just been talking whatever came into his mind in front of five others who were essentially strangers. He hoped that they would become friendly with each other if they worked together but that was a big step. Most people didn't like to just listen to someone talking about themselves.

"Uh, sorry, I got carried away," Luca sat down, sheepishly rubbing the back of his head. "What I meant to say is that I'll take part."

[Silverink]

It was remarkably uncomfortable as William slowly eased back into consciousness with the feeling of pins and needles darting over his body. It was worse than than the time his twin nephews fell asleep on his knees on the couch after an impromptu movie night, it had taken several minutes to restore blood flow to both his feet. What had happened and where was he, two key questions that floated around his fuzzy brain as the room slowly came into focus. An impressive theater with velvet red curtains and all..why was he in a theater. Slowly the very recent past began to reform as a mixture of emotions settled in his gut. Anger, shame and shock as the woman in front of him explained why he had been practically dragged away from a client without a second to even clean the grit and blood from under his nails. She had mentioned dinner..how long had he been out for..

His day had been ending like any other as he soothed strained hands under clean, but chemical tinted water from his sink. His latest client was now looking like a strapping young man as red rose button hole delicately accented his crisp black and white suit. Not even his mother would be able to see any sign of a bullet that had pierced her child's chest in an ill-fated shoot out in the slums. No, people would at best glance over the carefully pressed white shirt lovingly done by his mother. A sigh escaped the blonde as he looked from the corpse to his own reflection in the cracked mirror, fatigue making him look almost a corpse himself. Dark bags rested under crimson eyes as William had been pulling an all-nighter on this particular client after his client's mother presented him with her choice of burial close..anything less than his best work would be shameful. Still, pride in his work didn't exactly stop him from gritting his teeth in pain as a muscle in his stiff neck jumped obnoxiously. Gently returning the made up corpse to it's proper station until it's final descent during the funeral in the morning. There was only so much cleaning the simple sink could do as William hummed under his breath exiting the building, with a hot and steamy shower in mind to get rid of difficult filth.

At least that was the plan until the sudden fatigue sunk into his body with each step. It was like a warm blanket when he was a child, fresh from the dryer as his mother hummed under her breath tucking it around him. Even the cool air had felt warm and hazy as the ground was suddenly much to close as his face brushed against asphalt. Even the faint buzzing of his cell phone flashing the name Amy became blurred as darkness finally took over. Finally all the pieces fell into place as the woman explained several things as his hands gripped either side of his seat in a clear display of anger as his tongue still felt sluggish and he doubted his choice words would be ideal. This was the reason he never came into his magic as his siblings did and their children..the pitying looks from strangers, mocking words from colleagues in college. Yet, the worse had come from client's families grieving for a loved one on top of being told their loved one would be taken care of by a professional..without magic. During his first week, it had taken several deep breaths to hold his tongue as potential clients were literally whisked out the door without a second glance. He had always wanted to help those grieving..but held in his own problems buffering them away through hard work until he couldn't recall them.

His eyes narrowed into a glare at the pristine glass of water in front of him. It did not have that slightly off smell like his sink's tap..it was too pure and fresh..nothing came without a catch as William merely tapped the floating rock out of the way. To grant magic to summon beasts of the past sounded too good to be true..even then it wasn't HIS magic. It was something given to him..blocking off his natural calling, what gave this little girl and her father the right to manipulate his fate. Still his anger warred with something else..greed..all the girl wanted in exchange for this gift was to perform in a few shows. A circus? A charming fantasy to please the masses. It seemed the shards still needed to be unlocked, that was a key problem as William slowly mulled over his options. Unlock this gift and attempt to slip his way out performing in her silly notion..a possible option. If he refused to even attempt this magic, his gut sank at the possible consequences of refusing someone who had managed to kidnap him twice. A wry smile curled on his face at the morbid thought of himself ending up on his slab to be found by some poor soul. A coroner's coroner..he could only hope his corpse would be treated as well as he serviced his own clients.

His expression became neutral as three of the 'guests' agreed to strange offer with surprising enthusiasm. Adventurers, idiots or followers..or all three would be good words to represent them. Only the black haired woman remained silent in quiet suspicion, at least one of them was trying to connect the dots beyond the offer. Clearing his throat as he crafted a wry smile drawling sarcastically "Well, my niece has always wanted a puppy..like an actual puppy..Think I can become the favorite uncle with it?". Crimson eyes narrowed as his next words were careful and hesitant like he was already attempting to calm down a ferocious beast "What if...we refuse..your offer..I doubt you can remove the shards..painlessly..". In the physical medical field, a bit of pain was expected from a stray scalpel or something...but not literal brain surgery.

[Genkai]

~ & ~

Gardenia's focus moved from Hale to Cynthia who remained silent and observant. Gardenia knew this was a massive amount of information to take in so she wanted to go at whatever pace each individual required. Her eyes glistened as Lola inquired as to whether or not it was possible that they could unlock their shards before dinner. "Oh!" But before she could reply to the gilr, Luca spoke up and began to prattle off. Gardenia grinned and placed her hands on his shoulders once he sat back down, needing to feel his excitement as it was endearing and entirely refreshing to have someone see the same vision as her. "You understand! This place is rustic, you won't find many modern-day amenities like robotic servants or camera surveillance systems. We make all of our food ourselves so I do hope dinner is a delight for your senses. I shiver at the thought of having to eat such processed bland food day in and day out."

Stopping herself, she stood back and looked to the man known as William who asked about not cooperating. Her smile faltered as she cleared her throat. "Mmm that would be disappointing. A shame to waste such potential." She said carefully, her arms circling to cross and press against her chest. "It is of course your choice to participate, no one is by any means forced to stay. But to turn down such a fun life seems like a missed opportunity. That said, if you truly refused, we could attempt to remove the shard but such a procedure has never been attempted before...so its success remains an unknown likelihood. It's possible the shard's removal would render you unable to use any magic whatsoever."

"With the outcome being so tentative, my advice would be to keep the shard unlocked and to walk out the door right now. That would be your best course of action." Gardenia concluded simply with a shrug. She could see both William and Cynthia on the fence about the whole revelation. Her attention focused on them, "Because we understand no one has outright consented to the shards being implanted in the first place, we understand the risk of unlocking a shard and having one of you just walk off into the sunset. You could use that power and exploit the world around you, become some kind of pretty little murderer if you so desired." She stopped herself from getting too ahead of herself.

"It is our ultimate intention for us all to reach a beneficial relationship that suits us all. We wish to put on a wonderful show, simple as that. You wish to train your new talents and maybe make a life change, that's hopefully what you'll come to want. You have all been given wonderful talents and you may either abuse them, ignore them or...you can hone them and take the world by storm. The spotlight is thirsting for something that has been long forgotten. You all have shards that give you powers not even the best storytellers from centuries ago could not employ." It was baffling to consider some might be ambivalent to such a simple and enthralling concept but she had to consider the monotony of the daily grind probably beat out any desire to be individuals.

Hale glanced to the others and got up, stretching his arms above his head before looking to Gardenia. "So you'd prefer us to just leave now if we're not interested in working with you." He said, wanting to get the bottom line if it would help move things along. "But otherwise after we eat and get to know each other, you'll unlock our shards and we start training. If at some point we decide to leave...we're free to do so?"

"Y-yes, of course!" Gardenia nodded to him.

"Do we have to sign any kind of agreement or contract?"

"No, no we don't wish to keep anyone like some sort of prisoner." She shook her head.

Looking to William and Cynthia, Hale put his hands on his hips, "Then why are you two so nervous? Gardenia is putting her trust in us to do the right thing but evidently we're still able to leave at any time." He said. "I think we should give it a go." He smiled. Gardenia looked to him, wearing an appreciative smile.

"I understand your trepidation but you do have some time to consider even unlocking your shard or not. Over dinner I encourage all of you to ask whatever questions are needed." Gardenia said before bowing her head. "I believe dinner is about ready, please follow me." She said as she moved to the back of the theater and into the grand foyer of the mansion. She took a left and led the group down a wide hallway, the purple walls were decorated in thin white lilies which had been stenciled onto the walls. There was gold crown-molding and the floor was a rich hardwood oak. Everything was lavish but careful to embrace a true feeling of cozy nature. While other homes would be simple in taste and design, the five strangers were now surrounded by may colors and textures.

They finally arrived at a long table which had several dishes spread out. There was fresh sliced bread, boiled and salted potatoes, honey glazed ham, roasted carrots and asparagus seasoned with butter and garlic, and red wine. "Everything here is grown on site so please eat carefully, your bodies may respond differently to natural foods but I assure you it is very safe to consume and we believe healthier than the foods normally consumed in the outside world." She said. Normally food was bland, only meant to serve as fuel for getting through the day and getting necessary vitamins and nutrients. Like fashion and media, the idea of eating for enjoyment had been one long scoffed at.

"This looks amazing! I've never smelled something so inviting." Hale took a seat and noted it was padded and quite comfortable. "So will your father join us? He is the man who set all of this into motion after all."

"He is quite tired so I'm afraid introduction to him will have to wait until tomorrow."

Nodding, Hale began to serve himself, not wanting to let the food get cold. He couldn't believe there were people like this, people who still seemed to cling to old lifestyles. He had only thought the future was the direction to look but he was beginning to consider that the past had much to offer. His eyes traveled to Gardenia's attire, enjoying the bright color of her dress as well as her hair. He wasn't sure how much he'd be able to contribute but he decided there wasn't much he had to lose. He had so much to gain. He looked to Luca who seemed to be on the same page as him. "This is all pretty strange and wonderful, isn't it?" He commented as he passed Luza a warm dish containing the tender potatoes. "My name is Hale Westlake and I hope this is the start of something extraordinary." He smiled.

"Controlling air sounds really cool, I'm jealous you probably get to fly!" He commented to the other male.

[Sterling]

Cynthia was hardly able to believe her eyes or ears. Everyone was falling in line, everyone signing up for this hoax. And while she wasn’t speaking it seemed the pink haired woman knew her trepidation and general disbelief and strong dislike. She was thinking she was going to be the only one to stand up and point out the absurdity of it all when a blonde man with scarlet eyes finally spoke out. Cynthia found herself staring fixedly at him as he asked pertinent, pressing matters.

Her dark eyes drifted to Gardenia, lashes fluttering down to cover her gaze in mistrust. Feeling the threat hidden behind non-committal words and urges to join the group think Cynthia could feel her jaw tightening and her hands balling into fists. Things were not going well but she didn’t want to be the object of focus for the pink haired woman or her deranged ‘visionary’ father. Standing as the others did she slowed her pace to find herself next to the only other nay sayer. Scanning the halls as they left the theatre for ways to exit, escape.

“Aren’t you excited?” She murmured under her breath to her fellow doubter, the first words she had spoken since being abducted, her tone sarcastic but her voice a low mellow thing with an almost hoarse quality. Very pleasant on the ears . Cynthia stopped inspecting the route for exit strategies to meet his gaze for a moment. One perfect brow arched and a wry smile twisted her lips. She was clearly trying to communicate something without speaking.

Mind racing Cynthia didn’t like the sound of the doubtfully successful shard removal… She’d never let the person who did this injury to her in the first place touch her again, that violation was unforgivable, but if there was any truth… The only chance of having her natural powers was removing that cursed shard.

She breathed in deeply. Or, she could leave (supposedly) and live the life she had been living. Giftless, her talents and brains unexplored and unappreciated by the public, her sole value in her looks and body. A life she didn’t hate per say but found little dignity or joy from. And it wasn’t something she could share, openly explain to people what it was she did.

And this unlocking procedure? It sounded dangerous and all the more unappealing since the pink haired woman was pushing so hard for it. To be in some show, to be ogled at and something for people to speculate over…Well she was already that. How had such a pretty, smart, driven girl with a nice father like Cynthia ended up so…So…Wrong? No magic, no career, no friends…Barely any family.

She didn’t want to be in the light like that ever again.

Shaking her head to clear it of these dark thoughts and painful memories Cynthia smoothed the front of her iron grey blouse down. It was fitted attractively and paired with a black trouser and heel. Only everything was slightly wrinkled for laying passed out for however long that was, and her dark hair was a bit more wild than traditionally. Disliking the feel of being sullied and discombobulated Cynthia ran a hand over her hair in attempts to tame it while following the pink poof of hair that was Gardenia.

“A bit perky that one… I suppose you become that way when you knew what was happening and were able to work with magic…Even if you were closed off from the world and raised by a visionary…” An eye roll was given after this comment to the blonde skeptic walking beside her, voice carefully kept lowered so no one else would over hear. She didn’t want to piss off their captors after all.
@Silverink

[FernStone]

Luca excitedly listened to what Gardenia had to say about the place, a wide grin stretched across his lips. How exciting! The thought of eating real food, unlike what they normally had, appealed. Even the bread that he baked was made from the bland ingredients provided to them. It tasted better than normal food but was hardly a delight.

He didn’t pay much attention to what was said regarding not working with them, or leaving with the shards unlocked. He wasn’t planning to leave. When he thought about it, something that he hadn’t really done up until now, he could understand the other’s trepidation. These people had kidnapped them years ago and again. And not everyone wanted to be in the spotlight. Luca didn’t care much for that, he had no wish to be famous or anything of the sort. What appealed to him was the thought of the performance himself; he could practically feel the exhilaration from it. As a young child he had dreamed of doing something like that, until his parents had thrown away what they classed as a silly notion.

Luca’s mouth fell open once again as they arrived at the table, staring at the food before him. It looked and smelled amazing. He could already feel his stomach grumbling just looking at it.

“Wow,” he couldn’t help but let out a contented sigh as he sat down beside Hale. He couldn’t wait to dig in – it would be hard to hold back if anything. He’d try to head Gardenia’s warning, though. It would make sense that they wouldn’t be used to these kinds of food.

“It really is, I’ve never seen anything like it,” Luca smiled at Hale as he thankfully took the warm dish, serving himself a generous portion of the potatoes. “I’m Luca Corvi, nice to meet you, Hale. I honestly hope so too. Imagine what we can do! I can’t wait to start.”
The dark-haired male picked up a piece of bread, munching it while nodding in response to what Hale said in regards to controlling air. He waited until he’d swallowed to respond – it wasn’t exactly polite to talk while eating. “I’m really excited about it. The thought of flying… well, it’s amazing. I wonder how long it will take to learn our new powers. I doubt I’ll be able to do something that impressive straight away.”

Luca paused as he served himself some more, continuing to eat. The food was just as good as he’d hoped. He’d never tasted anything like it. “Water is pretty cool too. I bet you’ll be able to breath while underwater or something, that’s a pretty neat trick to have. You’ll never have to worry about getting soaked when out in the rain again!” Luca tilted his head as he glanced around the room they were in, looking at all the others before continuing. “I wonder if I can use air to bring things to me. That would be handy. And I could reach high places I couldn’t get to before!” Now that Luca thought about it there were so many mundane uses for their powers.

“I don’t know about you, but I’d definitely be content with a life here,” Luca shrugged, not stopping talking now that he’d started. He hadn’t been able to just chat with someone without being judged for such a long time. “The food tastes good, everything is so bright and colourful… and being in a show is more fun than baking all day. And there’s people to talk to.” He grinned widely. “I hope we can all be friends.”

[Panic]

Lola followed quickly behind the others. It took her a second to gain back feeling in her leg that wasn’t pins and needles. When she finally felt like she could walk without looking like a newborn fawn, she continued with the others, noticing two of the members lagging behind. She earnestly hoped they weren’t planning anything hostile. After all, it sounded like there wasn’t any reason they couldn’t leave. But the more Lola thought about it, the more she was having trouble remembering the reasons why she or anyone else would want to. Every problem, every issue in her life was about to be solved. And true, maybe solved by those who caused it, but hey, the ends justify the means...right?

The young woman could smell something amazing. It took her a long time to realize it was the food. Where modern restaurants and eateries always had food-like fraguanes, nothing quite captures it like the feast laid out before them. Without heading the Gardina’s orders, Lola started pulling a bit of everything onto her plate. She had never had non-synthetic food before, but if it tasted half as good as it smelled, she couldn’t wait.

She watched some of the others begin to introduce themselves to one another, but before she could jump in, they were busy in conversation. Never one to draw attention to herself anymore, Lola was content with eating and just watching the others. But at the mention of flying, her imagination was already taking hold, and Lola found herself busy lost in another daydream.

Plants. That was going to be her element. The young woman imagined as many of the plants as she could recall from the few trips her school had taken to a garden. Ivy and vines could help her fly. Well not fly as much as trapeze, but definitely the sensation of flying. She could imagine it now, the feel of air and rush as she floated above everyone and everything. Yes, plants suited Lola just fine.

Lola found herself getting much fuller on the real food then she ever did with the synthetic stuff. But it was a good kind of full. The food didn’t just sit in her stomach, sloshing around, but seemed to literally fill her up. It was the first time she had felt anything like it, and found herself smiling for the second time that day. New sensations, ones that she had never even imagined. The world seemed so much more open and full of possibilities. After having been so bitter for so long, the chips and weight Lola had been carrying around were finally leaving.

“Can you tell us a bit more about your father?” Lola finally asked when there was a lull in most of the conversations. “You keep calling him... a “visionary” was it? Have we heard of him before? Maybe of his work?”

[Silverink]

A waste of potential and the chance of a 'fun' life answer made William's mouth twitch in amusement as if that was the worse fate that could happen to a magic-devoid person. It was almost enough to make him get up and leave, if his drugged body would have allowed that, were it not for the ice that jagged through his veins as the girl nonchalantly stated the abyss that was the surgery to remove said shard. ~Wonderful, if those are my opinions..magic devoid or dead. The first has worked out so well for me. Hell, I don't even know where I am, much less if this girl and her crazy father would keep her word to leave me alone after I left. After all, a shard that gives one magical abilities could upset a few powerful people..if the right connections were made ~ William pondered as the girl's speech droned in the background in an attempt to appeal him to his apparent destiny. Still he kept such thoughts to himself as the party rose to follow their guide as the other blonde chirped out a question about himself and the other woman's apprehension, but merely nodded stiffly, not trusting his tongue to not lash at the man's nativity.

It was hard to admit, but food did sound pleasant as he felt his stomach growl mutely at the thought. His thoughts of food almost passed over as the other skeptic whispered to him a soft voice inquiring about his excitement as a soft dry chuckle escaped him "Like the grave..refusing it all, well I am just a dead man walking..in the eyes of the world. Best to just keep living I suppose..". Crimson eyes flickered about the fine decorations about the hallway as his companion did the same, an escape would be fatal in his eyes. Yet, there was something about his companion that conveyed her need for freedom like a doe caught in a trap. The feeling of pity pooled in his chest as William shook the feeling away, it would be insulting to even think it. He knew nothing of this woman or her life, only that she was in the exact same situation as he was. Guarded would be a good word as even her clothes were relatively normal, perhaps a office drone in some boring desk job? A part of William was curious to ask, but he doubted it would be answered truthfully or without ire.

A cool smirk settled on his face at her barbed comment towards their hostess as he deadpanned "Ah, the age old argument of nature verse nurture. Given her 'talent', it isn't surprising she is so..excited to share it with the world..and..us. Given what we know about her visionary father..which is nothing..I doubt he was much of a companion in her youth". His voice trailed off as he realized train of thought, commenting dryly "This is why I am not a psychologist..I can't read people. Well..living ones..". His face paled as he hastily explained himself "I am a coroner..hence..the morbid...humor..". Once again his voice faded as a faint pink tint, this always happened when he was given a chance to speak. Speaking too much and offering it up much too quickly in an effort to make a point..it got lost in the rambling. As a child, he only had so much time to speak his piece before his siblings took it away..it was a habit that never gone away. Thankfully his apology was cut off as a wave of scents flooded in from the dining room. It smelled even better than his mother's home cooking, which was a mighty feat as William hoped to smooth his previous mistakes by pulling out a free chair for his skeptic friend "My name is William Aftone, miss..please have a seat. Apologies for my..rambling, it's an old habit...which I am doing again..". Sighing under his breath as he took a seat to her right before flickering over the food.

As the conversation turned to their talents as William paused in his bite of salad commenting "I should consider myself lucky, I wasn't given your shard, Luca. Afraid I am not a fan of heights after my sisters dared me to climb an extraordinary high structure..I somehow got stuck and couldn't get down. Haunted my dreams ever since..". His posture relaxed as the meal progressed as his stomach ceased complaining after a few select portions from dishes. Still his interest perked up from his food as Lola asked another key question, that could explain how exactly he had managed this supposedly impossible feat. Making the magic devoid, magical with a simple gem..it would make 'enhancement' companies seethe at the thought. William would be the first to admit that he too had fallen prey to a few select schemes in his youth that this cream or that drink would help spark his magic..most of the time it merely made him slightly nauseated and his parents furious. A person doesn't need magic in this world to be special, you are special to those that matter to you. All that sugary nonsense to ease the cool anger in his heart..that would gradually flare up even as an adult. William did have a place in the world patching up corpses for the living, it wasn't much of a place..but it was something he was profound at.

Yet, the idea of having a magic all his own..like nothing else in the world. Setting down his fork and knife as he took a sip from his wine glass mulling over the exquisite taste. Even he was held here..at least would be plenty of good wine bottles to keep him company in darker times. Still a spark of excitement gleamed at the thought of seeing creatures he had only seen in pictures and read about in books to be at his beck and call. It would be a much less lonely existence even if he was surrounded by strangers on a stage performing for some apparent visionary. It would be utterly stupid to walk out even with unlocking his shard, what if something went wrong with it or his magic went out of control. Setting down the glass as William whispered in a soft tone to Cynthia "Please don't leave me alone with the sugar and rainbows brigade..I will go crazy..".

@Sterling

[Genkai]

~ & ~

Breathing under water wasn't something Hale considered until Luca pointed it out. "I suppose you're right. That would be pretty neat." He nodded, enjoying the image of him becoming some handsome underwater entertainer. Then there was the notion of perhaps warding off water come the next rainfall. That was another interesting concept and it seemed the more he conversed with Luca, the more creative ideas began to take root in their minds. Hale nodded once again, "I bet you could use the wind to bring things to you, or even create some kind of small cyclone that delivers things to people, kind of what Gardenia did with her rocks." He considered. "I bet you'd be able to float and never have to bother with new shoes." He joked a little.

"I could see myself living here, contributing to whatever I can." A renewed sense of purpose was what Hale was looking forward to embracing and it was all the more reassuring to know he could could rely on Luca to take the leap of faith with him. For the most part, everyone was enjoying the opulent meal as it contrasted drastically with anything that they had in the past. Gardenia looked around, still unsure about William and Cynthia who seemed quite uncertain and still guarded. Gardenia understood their apprehension and knew there was little she could do to further attempt to sway them. All of her cards had been laid out on the table, so to speak. And their choice had to be their own to make. If they were to commit to staying, it was one to be taken seriously and it was a choice some did not want to rush.

Gardenia looked to Lola who wished to know more about the man who had been behind this whole endeavor. "My father's research has never been published so none of you would have heard of him, I'm afraid." While scientific discovery and progress was praised, those who did not publish were forgotten to the mainstream folks of society. "My father traveled around the world and finally excavated the shards you all now possess." Gardenia said. "While science is pushed toward practical means, his studies would have been scoffed at even if they say the light of day." She explained to the group as they nibbled and continued to pass around the food. She sighed softly, recalling the struggles and doubts which plagued him. "He has a vision of this world, one that does not focus on sole progress of the public, but on the individual."

"While society requires conformity and compliance, my father wishes to provide people with the ability to be themselves without having to sacrifice their own identity. I know it sounds idealistic to thin that through a simple circus performance that the minds of people can be swayed but that is his intention. Progress needs free-thinkers, not just those with skills but those with ambition." She continued. "I know this is asking a lot. But whether you do agree to help us and see what you're truly capable of, or walk away, the show will go on. His vision will come to life." She said, wanting them to not feel obligated or forced into the position of becoming a performer. "So please eat and consider your choice carefully." She smiled as she got up to go check on dessert, which was far more simple.

The blond with the glasses let out a thoughtful hum as Gardenia returned with a blackberry pie and went around to serve those who felt like they could stomach a bit more to eat. While everyone began to finish their dessert or bits of food left on the table, Gardenia felt herself growing more anxious with the choices that awaited those around the table. "I suppose this is where you take us off to unlock our shards." Hale commented as he wiped his mouth on the white cotton napkin before setting it atop his empty plate where food and pie once sat. "And then anyone who wants to leave can...?" His eyes looked toward the long black haired girl and other strawberry blond male, unsure how they would go since they had been suddenly quite close with their shared uncertainty.

Getting to her feet, Gardenia gave a wide smile, "Yes, if you'd all like to follow me, we can begin the processes right away and do a bit of training before it's time to retire for the night." She explained. The woman pushed in her seat and walked out of the dining room and headed back toward the theater where they were previously. Now in the middle of the elevated stage was a simple solid podium comprised of solid coffee colored rock. She walked up on the stage and gestured for the others to follow her. On the rock was a simple device which resembled a wooden wand. Gardenia picked it up and rolled it between her thumb and index finger, trying not to appear as nervous as she was. The unlocking of the shards would be rather quick and easy but she still wasn't sure how many of them would agree to take part in their extravagant spectacle.

"Okay! Everyone stand in a straight line and we can begin." She directed, waving at them with her wand. Once everyone was lined up, standing side by side, she gripped her wand and placed it against Hale's forehead, a suddenly glimmer of sapphire.

"It tickles." Hale chuckled as Gardenia went on to do the same to Luca, Lola, Cynthia and William.

"See, not bad at all. Give your powers a try but be careful, your energy has been dormant for a long time so it might come out in a rather...big way." She warned. There was no way to safely rid them of their pent up magic but being more skilled at using her rock abilities, she was confident she could prevent any sudden display by shielding the others or confining the magic within a rocky tomb. "Close your eyes and do the first thing that comes to mind. Each of you controls a different element so I cannot direct you individually, however I can help with the basics as well as other tricks, but for the most part, your power is entirely in your hands." Gardenia said quickly, her eyes set upon the group as she awaited what sort of things may finally spring to life. She was anxious to let them finally embrace something new and original.

Hale cleared his throat and stepped away from the line as he placed his left hand out in front of him. He concentrated but nothing happened. He decided if forcing it wasn't working then he had to consider how water behaved, it flowed, it moved freely, nothing stopped water's progression. Suddenly ribbons of faint blue water began to weave through his open fingers. "Woah! It works!" He exclaimed as he looked up and took a deep breath and released an energetic stream of water from his mouth. Gardenia laughed and quickly conjured up a basin made of rock to quickly collect the water before it threatened to ruin the seats of the theater. Hale looked around to the others, his body practically trembling, now able to do something no one else could. He could make water. He wasn't useless or meant to fade into the background. "This is incredible." Part of him had been dubious but that tiny part was now utterly silences as he began to blow various sizes of bubbles around the stage.

[FernStone]

Luca was enjoy talking to Hale, nodding excitedly at what he said. Not having to ever get new shoes was certainly an interesting idea! That would save him a bit of money. Though he wasn’t sure if that was something he was going to need anymore. There was so much he could do. It was nice to suddenly be able to use his imagination for things, to think up anything to do with his power. And the fact there were other people who would be there with him along the way, like Hale? That was even better.

He only half listened to what Gardenia said in response to Lola, unable to entirely focus on it as he shoved food into his mouth. His mind was just too full of other things. He already knew that was going to join. While the thought of change was appealing Luca was hardly the kind of person who had grand visions of the world. He was more than happy to help with this, though. Because it would be fun. It was the thought of the circus that appealed more to him, rather than changing people’s minds.

“Oh, I can’t wait to unlock them!” Luca practically jumped to his feet as Gardenia did, unable to keep the spring out of his step as he followed back through to the theatre. He was more than happy to follow her orders and getting into a line with the others, going to stand beside Hale.

He couldn’t help but laugh slightly as the wand touched his forehead, eyes widening at the white glow. His eyes moved down the stare out his hands as he listened to what Gardenia had to say about trying them out. What should he do? He had so many ideas! Too many, if anything. What did he really want to do? The answer to that was obvious. The thing he wanted to do was fly. That seemed a bit too hard to go for first.

Well, he didn’t have to completely fly the first time.

Luca stepped away from the others, moving just a bit to the side so he wouldn’t crash into anyone if something went wrong, and took a deep breath. He moved his hands downwards, trying to push himself upwards. He imagined that he was manipulating the air around him, creating a breeze from it. After a few tries a small breeze pushed out of his hands and moved him just a few centimetres off the ground. It worked! He could control the air.

“Did you see that? I just- ah!” Luca had at the beginning of what was bound to be another excited rant when he suddenly launched up, wind left in his wake. He felt so light as he lifted up, swivelling around so that he could look down at the ground. Then, he was falling back towards the others. Shit! Panicking, he pushed his hands out again to shot another blast of air just before he hit the ground. It was enough to let him flip around and land awkwardly on his feet, collapsing backwards as soon as he did. “Wow, that was so cool! It was scary, but amazing. I was almost flying!”

The relatively short man was grinning widely as he bounced up, acting as if he hadn’t just almost fallen from a height that would have broken a couple of bones. Gardenia had said it would possibly come out in a big way so he was sure that it would be fine now. He careful concentrated on shifting the air around him, once again moving up of the floor to reach one of the bubbles that Hale had created and popping it. His landing was lighter this time used more air to soften it. From what he could tell if he actually wanted to fly that would take a lot of practice. But he couldn’t definitely use the air to get way higher than anyone else.

“Hey, Hale, those bubbles are amazing!” He chimed cheerfully, while sending a small gust towards the blond to mess up his hair. It hadn’t taken him long to feel confident around the other person at all. He was sure he would get along with the other three too if he talked to them! “I can’t believe it actually all works!”

Luca was excited to see what the others could do as well, making sure to keep a close watch on them as he started creating tiny tornadoes. He made a few to sweep up some bubbles as it made a pretty nice looking combination. Then he started using the air to push himself up, easily combining it with the skill he already had in acrobatics to flip about the stage.