[IC] Blood Act I~ Ghosts of the Past

[Ryonara]

Meirin Kurenai

Meirin trusted Ssarak, but that didn't mean she wasn't cautious. She has no idea what might happen in that cloud and she just wanted to brace herself for it. But if Ssarak said it would be okay, she'd believe him. Holding on tight as Ssarak ascended, when they went through the cloud Meirin felt rather wet. It was very humid, not unlike a thick fog or being high up on the mountains. The cool winds whipped across her face as Ssarak went higher and higher. It was a good thing her dress was made of thick cloth to keep her warm.

When they broke through the clouds, what Meirin saw was breathtaking. Literally, as the high altitude made it somewhat difficult for Meirin to breath. Fortunately breath control was something she learned even before coming to the college, so she quickly adjusted to suit her environment. But here, high above the clouds, was far different than anything she's ever been to before. She's never flown so high that she could see the top of clouds. Meirin was speechless. The clouds reflected the sun's light like fresh snow. The shapes and sizes of the clouds were absolutely colossal; while she always knew clouds were large, being this close to them made Meirin feel like an insect. It was as if she had been taken to a new world, ten times bigger than the one she knew. It was as if she was in another magical realm.

"Wow..." Meirin reached out, trying to grab hold of one of the clouds. She didn't expect to actually catch anything, but she wanted to try.

Myrn Vaan'Atisha

Myrn wasn't satisfied with this answer. She understood what the Matriarch wanted to do, but Myrn didn't like it. Yes they would change, but they won't be doing it fast enough. There simply wasn't any time for the naga to "adapt" to the new ways. By the time the nagas would come to accept things like magic or naga hybrids, the only ones who would be doing that would be a handful of survivors. Mryn didn't like that thought. There had to be a different way they could do things. A way they could adapt faster, get used to strange, new things. But Myrn knew so little of the naga that she couldn't think of a way to help them. The naga were a mysterious people, which made their problems difficult to figure out. Normally when people were pushed into dire straights like this, they would be far more accepting of using solutions offered to them. Myrn often gave advice and directions to people who just lost everything or were on the run, and they usually took it. And the ones who didn't Myrn never heard from again. That's when she had an idea.

"I understand. I'm glad that you see it that way, Matriarch. I have many more questions for you and the naga, but I do not wish to waste any more of your time. If... If it isn't too much trouble however, perhaps we could keep in touch through writing?" Myrn held her book in front of her. All this time and the answers where right in her hands. "There's so much more I want to know about the naga, but our time together is coming to an end. But with this, I can learn more from you, as well as ensure that you and the naga are doing well. I'm sorry if I seem too forceful. I won't press the matter any further. Um..." Now Myrn was feeling some awkward stares from Lyamis. He may be (understandable) pissed that Myrn went off on a tangent like she did. Bowing her head at the matriarch Myrn said her farewells. "I've used enough of your time. Please consider my offer. Thank you for your time, Matriach." Myrn then turned to Lyamis and bowed to him as well. "And you as well Lyamis. Thank you for answering my questions. I pray that your journey is safe and fortunate."

Myrn left the naga alone and headed back to her dorm. She put her book away among other journals and notes. She practically had a small library of books she's written, most of it stories, drafts, notes, and other documents of things she's seen. On her table was a thin journal of her "Observations" about the naga. Mostly it was just Myrn taking the answers Lyamis had given her and writing her own thoughts based off his answers. Since he didn't exactly give a very in depth explanation, Myrn had to pad it out herself. But Myrn wasn't going to do that right now. She's been at this for the past few days and it has been putting some stress on her. Even though it was none of her business Myrn felt like she had to preserve the naga somehow. She could tell the path they were on right now would lead to ruin. Something had to be done. Somehow...

Shaking her head, Myrn put those thoughts aside. She needed to unwind, and the best way to do that was to go out for a walk. She took her bow, arrows, and her Dar'Missan. She also put on her hunting outfit. While she wouldn't mind bagging some game, she wasn't trying to go hunting. It's just that the forests around the college were dangerous, so it was best if she went prepared. It'd also be best if she had company. With a smile on her face Myrn went out of her dorm to find Aramir, the lovely little snow elf. Despite her hatred of being touched, Myrn makes an exception for little cuties like Aramir. She just hoped Aramir wasn't still afraid of her. Myrn could be a bit... Obsessive, but she learned to tone it down.

[EliteCommander]

Ssarak Dyreackthanose

---

Ssarak did not need to hear Meirin say a word to know her reaction. Even for Esyire, seeing the tops of the clouds for the first time was an unquestionably memorable moment. He remembered his own first time in the clouds, so he knew that, for the moment, it would be best to simply allow her the chance to take in the experience herself. He remained silent, smiling as he watched Meirin’s reactions.

The pair flew around above the clouds for a few more minutes, but Ssarak was wary of flying any higher. Not only was he worried about Meirin being able to breathe properly, but he was having to strain his wings more to get higher. Alone, he could continue to climb, but Meirin was a lot of weight to carry. Of course, he doubted it would matter if he managed to climb any higher or not, since the view would not be appreciably different.
“I believe it is time for us to descend. I am beginning to feel the fatigue in my wings, and there is one more thing I would like for you to experience. At this height, it takes quite a bit of time to fall, and at full speed, that fall can be rather thrilling. Really, there is no other sensation that is similar. It is as if your body is without weight, like you are floating with the wind rushing at you from beneath. I would like to show you what it is like to dive. Do not worry, I will slow us long before we are close to the ground. Are you ready?” Ssarak asked. He allowed her a few moments to ready herself, then pulled back his wings and angled them downwards to dive straight back into the cloud.

Even though Ssarak had experienced it many times before, freefall still had a trilling element to it. The rush of the wind across his scales and the feeling of weightlessness were truly unique, but he had another reason for his heart to be racing. He had been thinking ahead to this moment for a while, or at least moments like it. Between the beautiful sight of the clouds surrounding them, the sensation of freefall, and his love for Meirin, he felt an intense passion in the moment. He simply hoped Meirin was feeling the same way. He wanted to show her how he felt, and with them being thousands of feet above the ground in a freefall through the clouds, he could not think of a better time.

Ssarak pulled Meirin so her head was closer to his, then gave her a kiss. It was their first one, and with the situation they were in, it was certainly memorable.

[Ryonara]

Meirin Kurenai

It was honestly hard to hear Ssarak over the winds as they flew. Fortunately since he was so near she managed to catch most of what he said, needing only a few seconds more to make sense of what she may have misheard. Ssarak wanted to take them down into a dive and Meirin was ready. She hasn't told him, but what she enjoys the most about flying is falling. Perhaps it was masochistic, but she enjoyed that feeling of both weightlessness and the feel of gravity slamming her towards the ground. Of course she always made sure to survive those encounters, but it excites her nonetheless. Another thing that made it exciting was the sheer speed that it happened. It may take a few minutes for Meirin to gain considerable altitude. But she would fall in mere seconds.

"Ready!"

And suddenly they fell. The free fall was unlike any Meirin had before. She always had a bit of drag due to her clothing, which gave her one or two seconds of air time before she would need to get ready for landing. But in Ssarak's arms the dive was sharp and fast, so quick that Meirin had to will herself to keep her eyes ahead. They broke through the clouds like a ray of light, and the ground was coming ever closer. Meirin was waiting excitingly for what Ssarak would do for a landing, but what he did next caught her completely by surprise.

Meirin's head was turned to face Ssarak, and immediately they kissed. Meirin's first kiss, and with Ssarak even. It was a strange feeling, but not entirely unpleasant. A bit awkward since Meirin wasn't certain how to kiss in the first place, but those thoughts were quickly put aside. Though they were going to land any second now it felt like time stood still. Feeling more comfortable with the kiss, Meirin reached her arms out to embrace Ssarak and hold their kiss a longer. She wanted this memory to be etched into her mind forever. Meirin's lips only left Ssarak to whisper into his ear.

"I love you, Ssarak."

[EliteCommander]

Ssarak Dyreackthanose

---

Ssarak felt both a great weight lift off of his shoulders, and a feeling of intense passion come over him, when Meirin returned his kiss just as enthusiastically as he had given it. He had not known exactly when this moment would come, when the opportunity would afford itself, but he had put considerable thought into it for at least a few weeks. The fear he had felt when he knew Meirin could be in danger during Lyn's hunt had revealed to him the extent to which he cared for her. He had known that he wanted to express that to her, but he had wanted to make sure that he did so properly, even going as far as taking the time to learn how Humans actually kissed, and what it meant for them. Now, after all of his worrying, he knew she felt the same way.

Even being as close as she was to him, Meirin's whisper was difficult to hear over the roar of the wind, but the context was enough to inform him of her words. Though, he did not have time to respond before it was time for him to once again take control of their descent. As the College was growing closer beneath them, Ssarak extended out his wings to catch the air, then pulled up and to the right sharply. They flew at impressive speeds around the College's tallest tower, far enough for Ssarak to remain safe, but close enough to make the speed of his sharp turn seem all the more thrilling. He made a tight circle around the tower, then turned to fly in another circle above the College's courtyard just to slow them down to a reasonable enough speed to land. Finally, he flew them over to the roof of one of the buildings overlooking the courtyard and pulled up at the last moment to allow himself to land on his feet.

Ssarak slowly lowered Meirin onto her own feet, but kept his arms around her, partially to keep her steady in case his acrobatics had disoriented her, and and partially because he wanted to continue holding her in his embrace. "And I love you, Meirin. More than I could have imagined." He said, reaching up one of his hands and running it through her hair.

[Freeshooter92]

Alaira Taenn & Grey Onyx

Fwoosh. Fwoosh.
...
Hiss.
Fwoosh. Fwoosh.
...
Hiss.

"You're going too fast, you need to slow down." Came the gruff voice of the guardsman, frowning at the woman as she worked the bellows. "I've been doing this for fuckin' decades, I know how to do it..." the woman replied, wiping the sweat from her brow as she slid the blade into the forge again, stepping at the bellows exactly twice and waiting, and then removing it and cooling it with water. She was tempering the blade, heating and cooling it repeatedly to give the weapon the flexibility it needed to be durable. the final step in the process.

Grey held his hands up, shaking his head as he went back to polishing the set of armor he'd been working on. The upper half was beautifully designed, lightly engraved and adorned and polished to a shine, brass plating decorated the trim. The greaves were comparatively simple, leather boots making up the feet as opposed to the sabatons he normally made, owing to the fact that the lower segment had been rushed. Still, it was as sturdy as the rest. He frowned, sighing as he rolled his eyes.

Alaira looked over her shoulder as she finished cooling the blade a fifth time, clicking her tongue. "you can stop worrying about the legs. She's gonna like it or hate it regardless." She said, shaking her head as she went back to work. Grey looked up, and then simply sighed again. "I know, but... it just doesn't feel right." He said, shaking his head some again as he got back to polishing it. He felt that it made him look... lazy or something, part of it was simply worry for his reputation. How could he have ever expected that what had happened with Mar had... well, happened?

"So... remind me again why you're doing this? I didn't think you were close to them." Alaira chimed in, stepping at the bellows. Grey looked up for a moment, humming. "Remember way back when Athalus lost his hand?" He said, stroking his chin. "Yeah?" "Well, at the time I had felt like it was my fault, that I hadn't done enough to protect him or Mar. I got over that little bit of despair, but at the time I felt like I needed to make it up to them, somehow. I tried to think of something I could do for them, and I realized that all I could do was make something." He said, Alaira nodding along. "So I noticed-" "right, right. You noticed that Mar didn't wear any armor and that Athalus couldn't really do it so you started working on something for her." Grey nodded, tapping at the armor and smiling at the sound. "Exactly. I figured that she'd get hurt a lot less if she stopped going into fights with just a tunic on." He said, looking over to Alaira to find that she'd been polishing her blade now, as well as slotting the blade itself into the guard and the grip.

"And yours?" He asked. She smiled, wiping at the blade some with a soft cloth before she took out her engraving tools and got to work. "It's for Lyn. She's a big girl now, she can't just use that stick forever." She said cheerfully, referring to a wooden practice sword. She had made her a 'Hand-and-a-Half' sword, better known as a Bastard sword. It was a weapon sized so that it could be comfortably wielded one-handed or two-handed, as needed. Lyn was stronger than most so Alaira felt that a lighter weapon was wasted on her, but she was no brute so a big old greatsword wouldn't be able to take advantage of the girl's quickness very well. So she found that a middle ground was necessary. Even if she didn't use it, she'd made sure that the sword was pretty enough to be put on display, at least. She blew at the blade once she was done, polishing the segment now that the girl's name had been engraved into it, along with a few words. Grey stepped over, arching his brow. "Per aspera ad astra?" He asked. "Through hardship, to the Stars." She said, gingerly sliding the weapon into its sheath.

She said nothing more as she cooled the forge, watching Grey load up a small cart. "Ready then?" She asked, the man giving her a thumbs up and a nod as he placed a boot on the cart. "Ready as I'll ever be." He said, grumbling some to himself. {I hope those measurements Athalus got me were right... It'd be pretty embarrassing to give a gift that doesn't even fit.} He thought to himself. They walked through the halls, agreeing to stop by their room to deliver the armor, and they'd go their separate ways after.

Once they arrived, they found Leith standing in the doorway, prompting the two to look to eachother for a moment as they drew in closer, only catching the last bits of his words. "What's goin' on? What are we dealin' with?" Alaira asked, crossing her arms and arching a brow to him. Her tone was curious, not accusatory. Grey simply wheeled the cart to the wall and waved to Leith. "Hey there." He said quietly, leaning against the wall and simply standing by.

[Ryonara]

Meirin Kurenai

Meirin's heart swelled with join as she embraced Ssarak. She has heard a lot about love and it's romanticism. Often it seemed corny at best. But right now she didn't care about that. She didn't care about whatever rules or stigma she grew up with, that she lived in, or whatever problems she may face. Right now her only thoughts were about her happiness. She felt her heart race as Ssarak flew sharp turns around the college's towers, each twist adding another beat to her chest. When they finally landed Ssarak confessed his love for her. There were no words that could describe her feelings, so she simply showed it. As he ran his hand through her hair, Meirin reached up and pulled Ssarak closer to her, giving him a kiss this time.

Aftering her kiss Meirin nuzzled against his snout, feeling his breath against her skin. When she finally opened her eyes she noticed Khan and the naga down below. While she didn't mind some private time with Ssarak, they could still meet others while they were out. Putting a bit of distance between their faces, Meirin looked at Ssarak in the eyes. "It looks like the naga are about to leave, and Khan is there too. Perhaps we should say our farewells before they go?"

[EliteCommander]

Ssarak Dyreackthanose

---

While the moment may not have been quite as extravagant as the one in the clouds, Ssarak embraced Meirin's kiss just as enthusiastically. It was a much different sensation with a Human than with an Esyire. His snout did not even have lips as she did, so it did not feel entirely "natural." He had to take what he could do and use it to make the experience pleasant for the both of them. In many ways, it mirrored their relationship as a whole. He and Meirin were inescapably different. Physically and socially, they were not meant to be together, but they were defying those expectations regardless. They were making their relationship work, no matter what was trying to inhibit it.

Ssarak was reluctant to go anywhere, or do anything else, but he knew well not to attempt to force a tender moment to last beyond its natural end. They had both shown their passion clearly, but they were still technically in a public place, and it was time to move on. Turning his head down towards the courtyard, Ssarak raised his brow. "Right, that is today. Given my role in saving the Naga, I suppose I should be present to see them off. I have no desire to leave your tender embrace, but...I suppose we will have plenty of time later." Ssarak chuckled lightheartedly. He was already holding on tightly to Meirin, so it was simple to scooper her up into his arms, then glide them down to the courtyard below. They landed near to Khan and the Naga, after which Ssarak lowered Meirin slowly onto her feet.

"Greetings Khan, Lyam, Matriarch." Ssarak said, looking at each of them in turn and bowing his head politely. "Is all well for the departure?"

[Luna]

Colette & Tyrael

Tyrael stopped in a four way intersection in the lower levels. At this point he was fairly familiar with where he was at and knew he wasn't too far from the catacombs. He was considering heading over there to reinforce the traps and clear out anymore remaining ridge hounds when he spotted Colette down the hall. He puffed out a cloud of smoke and called out to her. ”What are you doing here? Underhaven is nowhere near here.”

Colette jumped and looked at her teacher, the very teacher she stood up against in the catacombs. ”I don't have much time to go to the Underhaven sir... She said truthfully. She really didn't have much time anymore with so much going on, Atticus and blood candies being a big thing right now plus managing her time with her new girlfriend Keri. She went to walk again when she stopped.

”Sir...I know these words don't mean much, but I am sorry for going against you. I had to get you to snap out of it some way. I know what it's like...living in your past, the pain of it can leave mental scars beyond healing. I know I suffered a lot before I came here, but thanks to you, Lucillia and everyone I met here, I know I can move on.”

Tyrael snorted at Colette. ”You are right… Your words mean nothing to me. You… It does not matter. My troubles aren't what happened in the past. It is what I must do for the future.” Tyrael puffed of his weed and exhaled a ring of smoke. He didn't know why he was here talking to Colette. He didn't think she could help him, so he started to turn and walk away..

”I used to say the same thing Mr. Tyrael until my life changed all together and I was forced to start over by myself. Colette said sharply, that sharp tone ending to get anyone’s attention since she never had a sharp tone to her voice before.

Tyrael turned his head towards Colette, hearing the defiance in her voice. He was half-tempted to simply strike her, and his hand turned into a claw to do so, but he simply clenched it into a fist and hold onto that anger.

”No matter what happens in the future the past will always come back and bite you where you least expect it. Yes the future is important and I have a extremely long one ahead of me, but there is something things about my past that will always and I mean always catch up to me. You are no different Mr. Tyrael.” Colette said. She then gave a hollow chuckle.

”We aren't so different you and I even if you don't want to admit it. I can tell when someone has a rough past and you do have one just as dark or maybe darker than what I went through, but sir… You're not alone. You helped me with my powers and everything, just let me help you in someway. I know that I will never be able to fully repay you back for your help. Lucillia may have saved me from completely ending myself from infinite suffering, but you… You gave me the strength to be stronger and helped me channel my demonomancy powers. Please I can change and I know deep down...you can too and I can help you in anyway if you allow me to” Colette said.

Tyrael glared at Colette. He turned his head and started walking. But he took a few steps and stopped. Then he started chuckling. Then those chuckles became mad laughter. His laugh echoed through the halls and surely anyone who was within the underground would hear it vibrate off the walls. As quickly as it came however he stopped, turned to Colette, and had the face of fury. ”Help me!? What could you possibly do to help me? I am Karnage Urabrask Vorinclex, Overlord of Seven Planes in the Inferno, The Master of the Forge. I have created armies and weapons far greater than what any mortal has achieved, none of them which has ever tasted defeat!”

Tyrael’s face looked sadden rather than angry. He slammed his body against the wall, sliding to a sitting position. He looked at his grey, clawed hands before putting his face into them. ”... And yet these hands have never saved anything. These are the hands of monsters. They cannot create. They can only destroy and corrupt. The power I have obtained cannot protect anyone. They only kill my enemies. I cannot love. I can only demand satisfaction. I have spent my life looking for lies. I always have. That is why you cannot help me.” Tyrael waved his hand through the mostly empty hall. All there was here was darkness and pipe-weed butts.

”Your future is bright. You have lost everything from your past, so now nothing stands in your way. You have found new people to love and cherish. Your own power to protect them. You never had to sacrifice your life to have them. They came to you… They wanted you. But no one wants me. If I simply fell into the Pit right now, there would be no one to mourn me. No one will suffer from my disappearance. No one will shed a tear. No one… Needs me.” Tyrael slammed his body into the wall and sat down, taking out another roll of Pipe-Weed and lighting it up. He blew smoke into the air that formed in the shape of an axe.

”You are a fool if you see strength in me. Because up there, Mar… I am not as strong as you think I am. All this power I have nothing more than lies. If I was strong, I could have saved Mar. She would not live with suffering. But ever since I came here her life has been nothing but misery and pain. I have done nothing but hurt and caused suffering. I am many things, Colette. I am a demon. A monster. Evil. But I am not strong. I am not a hero. And… And I cannot help anyone.”

”I do have something in my way....the question of what really happened to my parents. Don't get me wrong, I am quite bitter towards them for their treatment of me after I was turned. That's why I became the blood drinking creature you think of vampires Mr. Tyreal, but unlike most, I tried to fight that lust for blood the entire time I was alone.” Colette said as she turned to face him. She walked up and held his arm in a gentle grip.

”You have helped. You helped all the students with their demonmancy and you helped me get the strength I needed to accept others. I often wish I had your strength from the very beginning, then maybe all those people would have never died by my fangs. When I first came here I tried so hard to keep others away from me because I feared myself. I don't even have a dorm, I live in a tower isolated from everyone so I don't hurt them. I still have that fear and probably always will. My fear is also my strength. I want to so badly help the other vampires so they don't suffer the same fate as me. I know you are not evil and you are not a monster, just like I am not. Me and you are just misunderstood by others around us. You are not the reason Mar is suffering, she is allowing herself to suffer because she must have something in her past that she can’t let go and whatever it is, it's not your fault.” Colette said with a sincere voice. She backed up but didn't let go of his arm.

”Let me help you like you have helped me” Colette said.

Tyrael was still and silent. What was it going to take to make this girl leave him alone? Was he going to have to hurt her? But maybe he didn't want her to leave. To be honest, he just wanted someone who could support and listen to him too. But such such a luxury was hard to find I'm in the midst of the Inferno, and even in the physical realm such weakness would only put him in danger and kill someone. But that didn't mean he didn't me want it.

”How… How can you help me?”

Colette smiled when he showed no signs of rejecting her help. She had no idea how she can help him with his past problems since his past was probably different than hers but dark like hers was. Just as she thought of that, an idea popped in her head. If she couldn't help him physically, she could probably help him mentally and emotionally.

”Let me be your dairy. Let me be your shoulder to lean on. I know it sounds teenagish or even weird, but it is helpful, to let all those negative emotions out. Talking out your past is a great way to get over the past. Holding it back only causes more pain and suffering. Colette said softly.

Talking? Tyrael wasn’t typically one for talking. Sure he could rant and give speeches but… Talking about his problems felt wrong. Why talk when he could deal with it? Then again it’s not as if he has been dealing with his problems lately. He’s been just putting it aside using excuses like “I have immediate concerns to deal with” or “There are more important things to do” and so forth. When in truth he simply didn’t want to talk and admit he had a problem. He wasn’t certain if he wanted to confide in Colette, one of his own students, about his problems… But right now he wasn’t her teacher, just a demon with some issues on his chest.

”...” Tyrael took another puff from his pipe-weed before sighing out a puff of smoke. ”Well… I wish I could spend time with my family more…”

Colette listened like she said she would. She smiled and nodded at him. ”There is nothing wrong about that, you have wants and needs too Mr. Tyreal.” Colette said.

Sighing Tyrael put out his pipe-weed. ”Maybe that’s true… But you know that as a demon, feeding these… Desires… It only makes them stronger. I want to see Lyn, talk to Mar, but everytime I do I… I have horrible images of… Things I’d do to them…” Just talking about it made Tyrael think of horrific things his demons would make him do to Mar and Lyn. What they want to do to them. He stayed away from them for their own protection, but that didn’t stop his own wish to spend time with them. ”You should know what I mean. Even if you have control over your own bloodlust, the idea that one day you could just lose control, it frightens you, doesn’t it?”

Colette nodded, her eyes softening with understanding at where he was coming from. ”Yes I do fear that, but you cannot let those fears control you. I let them control me and I only caused myself agony in the end. You have control over those fears, no one else.” Colette said.

Tyrael groaned in frustration. The sort of strength Colette was trying to appeal to just didn’t exist in Tyrael. At least he didn’t think so. ”Fear… Is sometimes the appropriate response. It tells us we face a challenge we cannot handle. It reminds us that we are not prepared. If I ever do anything to harm Mar or Lyn… I cannot imagine. But my demons… They know all too well. Even if what they say are lies, they know of the things I choose to ignore.”

Colette grunted and shook her head. ”Having you been teaching me not to let my demons control me? If you are letting your demons control your
fears, isn't that a little bit hypocritical?’She asked.

Tyrael glared at Colette. He hated it, but she was right. ”Tch… They do not control me. They are a threat that must be taken seriously.” Tyrael reached into another portal to take out a new roll of pipe-weed, once again cut the end and lighting it with the same portal. ”And it is not as if they lie. Demons are treacherous and cunning, but they are often honest, brutally so. Lyn… So is too dear to me to risk the chance of… Of weakness.” Tyrael said as he took multiple puffs from his pipe-weed.

Colette groaned mentally. Now he was just starting to make excuses for himself. ”And yet you let their honesty shape what you believe in, that is the same as controlling sir. Caring for Lyn and Mar is not a weakness unless you let it become a weakness. They can be your strength, your anchor, the ones you fight for. Don't let demons or you say or think otherwise” Colette said.

Tyrael took a few more puffs from his pipe-weed, staying silent. There was truth to Colette’s words, but it just wasn’t that simple. He couldn’t just ignore the dangers he poses, or the words the demon spoke of. He was no coward, but he wasn’t foolhardy either. Demons get you by being arrogant of their threat. It wasn’t as if Tyrael wasn’t going to fight and die for Lyn and Mar. He just couldn’t bring himself to actually be with them. ”I… I do not know. I love them so much, but love is a… It is more powerful than I can handle.” Tyrael sat against the wall, trying to forget his thoughts. Too much thinking on his part. He just wanted to go somewhere and… Not think about it.

”Well then about we go and find Lyn. Spend the day with her. I see it's pointless to try and talk it into you so we are going to get it through you by actually spending time with one of them!” Colette said using a no argument tone.

”What?” Tyrael stared at Colette in disbelief. As he looked Colette reached out and grabbed Tyrael’s hand, pulling him onto his feet. Normally such a petite girl like Colette couldn’t possibly move Tyrael, but thanks to her vampiric strength as well as the fact Tyrael wasn’t exactly resisting, she was able to get him to stand and dragged him out from the lower halls and up towards the surface. ”W-wait! You do not even know where Lyn is! And she is not expecting me, I have not brought her anything as a gift!” Tyrael certainly wasn’t going to give her his rolled pipe-weed.

Colette grinned and looked up at him. ”I'm sure you will be the perfect gift. Every girl always wants a dad and Lyn is no different. Besides not all girls always wants gifts. Now come on and no more excuses Mr. Tyrael” She said.

[Konan375]

Leith Calder

Leith noticed Althalus tense up ever so slightly when he had mentioned the Wild, and the man was about to answer when someone spoke up from behind Leith.

"What's goin' on? What are we dealin' with?"

Leith gave a small grimace when he heard Alaira. He wanted to have a private conversation with Althalus, but it seemed like it was to be put on hold for a little while. He turned around to greet the half-elf with a smile and noticed Grey off to the side as well. He gave the guard a small wave before he addressed Alaira.

"Hello Alaira. To be honest, I don't know what we're dealing with, but something had been bugging me since the missions." Leith looked at his cloak to make sure that his right hand was hidden and to give himself a moment to think. He adjusted his cloak slightly and continued. "I've been drawing parallels to these two missions and the mission I was on months ago. All of them had abilities far beyond what was the norm for masters. That wasn't the only similarity, though." Leith glanced at Grey. "I was a part of Tyrael's trial as Satori's Investigation Squad so I got to read the reports for what happened in the catacombs, and it looks like the Vitamancer that attacked us on the mission months ago had a sibling. So I think that the people that interrupted the hunt are connected and the mission in the catacomb are with the same people that attacked that village months ago. I was just asking Althalus if he had any contacts that might have insights on what we are dealing with, and if they'll come back again."

Leith waved his left hand dismissively "But I can talk about that later. What brings you two here?" he asked, taking note of the cart that Grey had been pulling with him.

[Lucius Cypher]

Annabeth Gultch

"Of course I can. And I can help you pick berries too! But um... How embarrassing... But I don't know what a mulberry tree looks like." Although she was a farmer's daughter, Annabeth's family grew wheat and barely as well as raised produced animals like chicken, pigs, and occasionally cows (They were too costly to open a full beef farm, but they did raise them). They never touched orchards since they lacked the land or manpower to take care of acres of trees. It's always been a family business after all. Annabeth looked at the tree they were near and figured this was a mulberry tree, but to Annabeth it didn't look too different from other trees that might not be mulberry trees. "You must know a lot about trees thanks to your magic."

As Annabeth chatted with Lyn, Colette came. With Tyrael. Suddenly Annabeth felt a bit meek. Being near one of the teachers just makes Annabeth immediately retreat into her shell, or her student/worker persona. Her usual outgoing, energetic, and some would say flirty attitude simply vanished when she was around these teachers. Perhaps it was for the best. She stood off to the side in silence as she allowed others to speak over her.

Tyrael Marchrosias

Tyrael let himself get dragged around by Colette. The only resistance he would have made was just standing still and daring the small girl to try and move him, but as mentioned before Colette's vampire strength was at least enough that if he just stood there while she pulled him, he'd fall over. He didn't expect them to find Lyn soon and half-hoped that something important came up to disrupt them so he would have an excuse to leave. But instead Colette zeroed in on Lyn within a few minutes, catching Tyrael off guard. He values what little time he has with Lyn and always tries to make each moment memorable, usually by bringing something interesting for Lyn to keep. But right now Tyrael had nothing, less so as he tossed his pipe-weed into the Inferno. Eventually the large, hulking demon man was brought before the group of girls, certainly the odd one out even compared to Lyn's half-naga heritage.

"This is awkward." Tyrael thought to himself. He saw Lyn, Keri, Colette, Annabeth, and one of the new girls called Helena. She had helped at the hunt Lyn was on. He didn't get a full memo on what exactly she did, but Tyrael gave her generic thanks a while ago. He hardly remembers it now. "Ah... Hello." Tyrael said awkwardly. He had nothing to give and no real reason to be here, so he felt like he needed to go and make himself useful. Of course, Lyn was here, which was always a good enough reason for Tyrael to be around. But looking at the little girl... No. Lyn was no little girl anymore. Sure she may barely be a year old, but her body was that of a young adult woman, and Lyn was more than capable of having her own thoughts and opinion. She was simply naive to the world and hasn't had the experience. But Tyrael wasn't sure if he was the best teacher to give her a lesson on life. And right now he wasn't too interested in life-lessons so much as getting out of here and not being caught in an awkward position.

"... What are you all doing?"

[Fallenreaper]

Khan, Courtyard

Khan moved slowly over the grasses, his cane end planted in the dirt and helped to propel him across the grounds. His leg was still acting up as he came to rest, watching the last of the Naga prepare themselves for the trip. The college had allowed them to hunt and collect their own supplies, supplying only what couldn't be made through their own engineering. It was difficult to get the remaining race residents to accept aid when their pride got in the way, Khan came to realize when Ssarak’s departure from the skies happened.

When the wind whipped over his figure, batting at his ponytail, Khan flashed the two students a smile while he hobbled toward them.It was clear he was pleased that at least one pain in his tail was about to depart as he nodded at Ssarak’s comment. He noted both Lyam and Amary, the Matriarch, both lifted their heads to spot the younger Esyire’s arrival with another student. “Yes, and with any luck they will manage to hash out their new lives. Rurik has agreed to take them to an area close to the Scorched Lands for now. It’s currently a neutral area through I worry it might not stay that way for long and it’s not an ideal situation. However we have few of those.”
The Headmaster turned to eye the Naga starting to move out with a small group of students assigned to escort service and Rurik’s cart leading the way. The Gate shuddered open for all to past while Khan continued. “When we discover what’s happening in Yarsomere then maybe, with some luck, we’ll return the Naga back to their homeland.”

Inhaling a breath, he then put a little more cheer in his tone when he asked a question. “So, since the unsavory events with Lyn’s hunt, how have you two been enjoying your R&R?”

[EliteCommander]

The deal the Naga had received was sensible, in Ssarak's eyes. It could be difficult finding unclaimed areas of land in Tiien, but they were actually somewhat common in the region around the Scorched Lands. "That is a reasonable plan, I imagine. I have always noticed that the other races tended to give our lands a wider berth than was necessary to avoid being poisoned by our homeland's air. Sensible, but if you know of a place that is safe for them, then they may have some protection simply from the reputation of the land itself."

As Khan shifted the conversation towards himself and Meirin, Ssarak picked up on the lightened mood. He gave a short, subtle nod to Khan, and even started to grin. "I personally have been taking the time to relax whenever I can. Though, my studies are rather demanding. Today, we were fortunate enough that both of our schedules permitted us to have some time together. Satori had another obligation which forced her to reschedule our private lessons. It is rare for her not to keep an appointment, at least in my experience, but I suppose she had her reasons. I certainly shall not complain about an...albeit short reprieve. Now, you have inspired some curiosity within me, Khan. When was the last time a certain Headmaster had any significant time to himself." Ssarak asked.

Ssarak was by no means against lighthearted conversation, but he doubted that the Naga would have the desire to join in. He did hope to speak to both Lyam and the Martriarch before they departed.

[Ryonara]

Meirin Kurenai

Once landed Meirin took a moment to observe the Naga. It was very strange seeing so many of them when the only naga she knew was Mar. SHe half-expected to see all of them, or at leas the women, look like Mar. But they each had their own individual looks, appearances, and subtle personalities. Meirin doesn't know Mar as well as Ssarak does, but from small bits of information she could glean the naga often commhnicated through body language, rather than words. Figuring out the subtle cues were difficult for someone who knew so little about the naga themselves, but Meirin learned what she could from Mar, and just by glancing at the naga she could tell they were all uneasy. It was as if they were still in hostile territory and must make their escape before predators pounced on them. And while the college certainly had it's bad influences, Meirin felt that they would be safest at the college. Some of the best healers in the world, as well as the strongest mages, and possibly even a few master warriors. Not that Meirin has heard much from them,

Despite her concerns, Meirin believed that their leaving was for the best. After all, it wasn't as if they had any choice. They were driven from their homes and forced into this strange and new land, much of it dangerous. Meirin also heard that when the college first met with the naga, their meeting did not exactly go... Well. Mostly due to Tyrael. That demon scares Meirin, and she despises him for it. She always knew that demons couldn't be trusted, and this once incident was just one of many that made Meirin extra cautious against the monster. She doesn't even go to him when she needs her weapons repaired anymore, opting for Val instead. Tyrael aside, the college was only going to become a hotbed for more danger in the future. Meirin was certain this wouldn't be the last time they hear of the naga, but hopefully when they do it'd be under better circumstances.

Khan asked Meirin and Ssarak about how their time off had been. Meirin blushed as Ssarak spoke about himself. Meirin didn't want to kiss and tell, but it was fairly obvious from her dress and blushing face that she and Ssarak had been intimate only a short while ago. "I had a little bit of training this morning with Annabeth. She wanted to try a new sword technique and I wanted to practice fighting with armor. Afterwards I met with Ssarak and... Came here." Ssarak asked Khan about his time off, and Meirin had noticed that she doesn't see him as often as they used to. Meirin had gotten some new medicine to help her with her sleeping and nightmares, so much to the point that they hardly haunt her at all. Ever since she's been to the college she's actually had a good night's sleep and hasn't been falling asleep in classes anymore. But that also meant that during those sleepless nights she couldn't have tea with Khan.

"All work and no play will make you into a dull boy, Khan. It may do you some good to take time off."

[Demonic Angel]

Keri Wolf

“I know the feeling. My body temperature is much lower than a normal person so touching Keri is like embracing ice. It takes a few minutes longer for me to warm up through, It will pass in a bit, just rub your hand.” this was when the vampire playfully ruffled Lyn's hair. The first time she even got near this child her parents seemed rather uncomfortable for different reasons. Mar’s reason was because here was no scent coming off Keri's body, which was one of the reason she use total scented oils. Athalus ready with a blade drawn out as if preparing to strike her down where she stood, only to find out the young woman didn't frighten easily. Now the man was much calmer around her making her stomach feel as if it was churning every time he would talk like they were friends rather then acquaintances. Maybe in a way the human had help make this just a little bit easier.

"I'm a pretty good baker. And if you want, I could bring it to Tyrael later. He tends to go to Underhaven a lot so I can give it to him during work." the young woman's red eyes jerked toward Annabeth after the words fluttered into the air. Something seemed off with her voice or at least in Keri's mind. As if the woman next to her had something to hide. Then again maybe Lucilia had finally succeeded in making the vampire question every single detail after constantly playing her sly tricks. Yet a pit in the girl's stomach seemed to say that there was in fact something off with what she said. It was odd for Tyrael to be in Underhaven since the place was where their kind liked to hang out plus the two teacher never seem to get along at all anyways. ” Strange.”

Keri mostly tuned out the rest of the conversation while constantly shifting from side to side. Things had been getting better for her after arriving at the college. The young woman was now able to drink blood from a cup, of her own free will, instead of being constantly reminded by many of the people here. Though drinking from the source was still another story. The young woman had also noted that she was able to attend classes regularly and staying put inside granted her seat was toward the back of room, for a quick escape if need be. She was also able to talk to strangers in a somewhat normal way until she tuned them out and shifted constantly due to being uncomfortable. Progress was progress none the less or so the girl's father would say.

"Of course I can. And I can help you pick berries too! But um... How embarrassing... But I don't know what a mulberry tree looks like." Keri's ears perked up just as Annabeth said this. She raised an eyebrow then turned her head in her usual questioning way. "You must know a lot about trees thanks to your magic." Keri silently shook her head before releasing a sigh. ” Annabeth I hate to be the one that points out the obvious but there's one right in front of you. Hold on.” she stated before backing up. Her angle was just right as she dashed forward, making sure to go over the mental notes from training, as she climb just like Lucilia taught. The vampire slowly worked on finding were a small twig was loose or one that had already fallen down and became trapped to a point. Once the girl did she jumped down, the height was enough to kill a human being which would possibly scare someone that didn't know what she was, and landed on her feet.

” Well I guess Lucilia’s training did pay off. Oh. Sorry about the scare Helena. As you can see I'm not human though I can't really truly say that I'm alive either. Guess thats what I get for becoming a vampire.” the young woman shrugged then placed the branch inside her friend's hand before noting a semi familiar scent. "Ah... Hello." Tyrael’s voice only confirmed her suspicions. The last time they had seen each other was when Lucilia took the newly turned vampire to Underhaven then things got out of hand after a few words were exchanged. The young woman bowed her head greeting him as if they were at work like any other day. She felt rather uncomfortable considering the only time she would see this man was down in the forge not to mention that Colette was with him. Two weeks they had been apart and now as if this event had been planned they were together at last.

"... What are you all doing?" the vampire shifted trying to decide on what to say. ” Sir, Annabeth and I were just wondering on how to help Mar feel better. While discussing this we had ran into Rabbit… I mean Lyn. Since it was your day off Sir I didn't want to bother you until I had made up my mind on what to do so I apologize for everything in advance.” she lied in a very respectful tone adding another head bow before turning to Colette. ” Hello Colette. You look very beautiful today.”

[Luna]

Colette Filiatraut

Colette dragged Tyrael to find Lyn and was quick to zero in. She was giving Tyrael no chance for an escape and she smiled brightly when she spotted Keri was also with Lyn. She hadn't been able to see her the last couple weeks since the missions. Colette shook her head at her teacher's obvious awkwardness of the situation, but she understood that feeling really well as she suffered that emotion a lot her first few weeks prior to arriving at the college that was accompanied by fear and mistrust of her own self to be around others, so she didn't speak against it. She heard Keri's words and it lit a small blush on her pale cheeks. She looked at her teacher and smiled.

"Now is your chance to get some time with Lyn and perhaps Mar as well."She said in a low whisper so only he could hear her before she turned her attention to Keri."Thank you Keri. You look beautoful youself. How are you today?" She said smiling.

[Fallenreaper]

Khan Courtyard

"That is a reasonable plan, I imagine. I have always noticed that the other races tended to give our lands a wider berth than was necessary to avoid being poisoned by our homeland's air. Sensible, but if you know of a place that is safe for them, then they may have some protection simply from the reputation of the land itself." Ssarak stated, seeming to be in agreement.

Khan nodded as his wings folded about his stock frame and curled against his back. “Naga are just as vulnerable to the radiation but Val knows a way to filter it using runes and near one of the Ravine locations. Hopefully it’s only for a few years at worst. Else we’ll have to replace the rune or relocate them. Originally Watertide would’ve been better but their homeland is being set upon by Djarkel and Eania as a battle ground.”

The headmaster looked saddened by the thought and his head turned to the Naga. The two that were greeted had already started to approach them, Amary and Lyam showing their usual caution and control. This caused Khan to step to the side and allow them pause within talking distance. Their conversation wasn’t ceased however while Ssarak continued, the topic lightened enough for the older Esyire to spy the grin on the student. It made the teachers’ heart grow and enjoy the pleasant company.

"I personally have been taking the time to relax whenever I can. Though, my studies are rather demanding. Today, we were fortunate enough that both of our schedules permitted us to have some time together. Satori had another obligation which forced her to reschedule our private lessons. It is rare for her not to keep an appointment, at least in my experience, but I suppose she had her reasons. I certainly shall not complain about an...albeit short reprieve. Now, you have inspired some curiosity within me, Khan. When was the last time a certain Headmaster had any significant time to himself." Ssarak asked.

Ssarak was correct in his assumption, the two Naga merely stood there until addressed again. Lyam was looking more confused by the casual exchange between Khan and the other students while Amary stood upright, her hands folded on her pelvis in patient wait. She didn’t say a word but she seemed familiar with the exchange despite her isolation from humans. Khan continued, absorbing Ssarak’s words a moment. His hand came to his scalp then scratched his head in thought. “Not a luxury I can afford right now, I’m afraid. I’ve got Tyrael’s classes, paperwork and much more to attend to than before. I’m not even sure I remembered if I took my serum this morning, not that I’m concern about it. Nasty tasting stuff.”

"I had a little bit of training this morning with Annabeth. She wanted to try a new sword technique and I wanted to practice fighting with armor. Afterwards I met with Ssarak and... Came here." Mei popped in, becoming involved in the conversation.

Khan recalled the last time he had walked in the two sparring, it was him and Ssarak were observing and the headmaster had actually felt like a teacher again. It was nice to not be alone on the sidelines and while he might’ve been the college’s head, he was trying to connect with each student the best he could. Not all would allow it or remember, but with any luck his influence might actually follow them into the future and help their choices. He was happy that Meirin had found something productive with her time unlike himself, thankful she no longer visited at night. Else she might’ve grown concern recently. Namely walking on conversations that already had Lucillia and Uicle eyeing him with worry and unsettled suspicions. No student needed to walk on those scene as he actively avoided places leading to the catacombs where he felt an unnatural draw to them, a fact that frightened him. It had occurred after the catacomb incident through no one had an explanation.

When completely alone, Khan swore he could hear Kudd’s soft, polite whispers wash over his mind causing him to shiver. Unknown to Khan, his figure stiffened in reaction to memories causing his attention to become distracted. His knuckles white upon his cane and his figure leaned heavily upon it, the thing groaning from the unexpected weight.

"All work and no play will make you into a dull boy, Khan. It may do you some good to take time off."

It was Meirin’s voice that ripped from him his unsavory reaction causing the headmaster to jerk subtly back into the present. His head snapped up and quickly hid the dumbfounded look. He then reply to avoid the two students focusing on his health. “At least work keeps me busy and someone has to do it. Lucillia’s probation period will end toward summer of next year, but until then she’s still limited to being around Lyn without supervision. Tyrael’s actions has also delivered his workload toward me which I’m the only possible choice for demonomacy until we can get another teacher to cover the gap. Whether it’s temporary or permanent depends on his behavior from here on out.”

Lyn Orchards

Lyn giggled, her hair playfully ruffled by the vampire’s hand. She immediately ducked down and moved out from Keri’s playful jester, turning to face her. Her hands immediately tried to brush her hair back into place, her attention to her looks starting to budding but not to obsession. It didn’t take long but for a moment she considered about trimming it down into a more manageable style. That was a fleeting thought since she liked to have her mother braid and toy with it, the sensation almost soothing even her depression. Lyn easily returned her attention to Keri, her tongue stuck out in response. “Not my fault it’s truth.”

"Of course I can. And I can help you pick berries too! But um... How embarrassing... But I don't know what a mulberry tree looks like." Annabeth stated, getting Lyn’s attention, then added. "You must know a lot about trees thanks to your magic."

Lyn nodded. “Yep, Lucillia’s gotten me a pretty good teacher though I do miss her classes. I tried to tell my parents it was my fault and see if the sentence could be lowered but it wasn’t. Uicle pretty much explained it to me but I still think she’s sorry and won’t do it again.”

She didn’t notice the way Keri was staring at Annabeth or the way the woman said, lost in her own thoughts for a moment about how to hint to Annabeth about the tree she was in earlier being the one she sought. Lyn was spared it when Keri spoke up. The vampire seemed beside herself over the fact Annabeth didn’t know one tree from another, especially when one was staring her in the fact and been much dangling juicy berries within eyesight.

Keri shook her head, releasing a sigh. ” Annabeth I hate to be the one that points out the obvious but there's one right in front of you. Hold on.” Her figure backed up to climb the tree, her feet leading upward as she seemed to search for something. Lyn blinked in confusion and tilted her head, following the vampire upward into the branches. She then stepped back when Keri jumped from the branches causing the bear to growl a warning as it snuggled upon Lyn’s shoulder. Lyn’s hands had pressed into her mouth, quieting a shocked yelp and concerned look at her friend’s dangerous jump down.

” Well I guess Lucilia’s training did pay off. Oh. Sorry about the scare Helena. As you can see I'm not human though I can't really truly say that I'm alive either. Guess thats what I get for becoming a vampire.” Keri said then shrugged off her deadly plunge down, passing Annabeth the berry laced branch.

”Ah...hello.” Tyrael’s voice caused Lyn to jerk from Keri to the fallen demonomancer, her face pretty much beaming as she walked toward him. "... What are you all doing?”

[color=sliver]”Sir, Annabeth and I were just wondering on how to help Mar feel better. While discussing this we had ran into Rabbit… I mean Lyn. Since it was your day off Sir I didn't want to bother you until I had made up my mind on what to do so I apologize for everything in advance.” [/color]Her foot shifted her basket to the side, namely to hide it, while Keri covered for her. This prevented the girl from having to lie about her surprise and risk him seeing through the act easier than her own father. One thing Lyn was bad at and it was lying to her loved ones. Namely because it always felt wrong and dirty, both sensations she didn’t like in the least.

Then Keri seemed to become distracted by Colette. ” Hello Colette. You look very beautiful today.”

Hiding her basket well, Lyn then slide in beside Keri to follow her lead. She attempted to change the subject rather quickly. “Hello uncle Tyrael. It’s nice to see you out of the forge. Colette you have to teach me how to get him out more often, he needs the fresh air afterall.”

[May]

☆ Helena ☆

She hadn’t thought that her peaceful afternoon reading would turn so suddenly into a gathering spot. She'd gone from being by herself to being surrounded by people she'd maybe shared ten words with collectively. It seemed Lyn was a magnet for people, because no one had come over to find her, just the girl.

She waved off the apology from Keri. It wasn't that big of a deal after all. Not that she'd really have much of a chance to say anything anyways, there were others there now and they weren't there to see her. So she just slunk back some, leaning against the tree to let everyone else talk amongst themselves. She had waved her hellos to the newcomers and that was all she felt she needed. She didn't need to be the center of attention after all. They'd talk to her when they needed to. If Lyn wanted her offered help picking or baking or whatever she would be there.

[EliteCommander]

Ssarak Dyreackthanose

---

The reminder of Tyrael caused Ssarak to think back briefly to the incident in the catacombs. It was a thought that made him quite obviously uncomfortable. "Yes...Tyrael." Ssarak began, shifting his weight to one side and breathing in deeply. "I saw his...I am not even sure what to call it. Breakdown? Transformation? Regardless, I witnessed it from its beginning through to its end. As soon as he saw the Naga, something within him snapped. He was no longer the person I knew him to be. Still, I do hope he recovers, mentally. Despite my general distaste for demons, I cannot deny Tyrael's strength, and I cannot deny that we will need him in the coming days. I would much rather have him as an ally than to not. Or even worse, to have him as an enemy."

Ssarak's eyes shifted briefly towards Meirin. He knew she distrusted demons, and he could not help but to agree. Since they had arrived at the College, demons had proved to be a danger on multiple occasions. The demon attack had nearly destroyed the College entirely, and now Tyrael had seemed to lose control of himself. It was difficult to give demons any measure of trust, but Ssarak's practicality also influenced his opinions. Tyrael was a master mage who would be an asset to the College for as long as he was allied with it, and given the power of their enemy, they would need as many allies as possible.

"I will admit, standing against Tyrael was among the most frightening things I have ever done." Ssarak continued. "He is powerful beyond anything I could hope to stand against, but it was not within me to allow him to murder the Naga in cold blood. I had to take a stand, even if it was bordering on suicidal. I am simply glad that most of the other students had the bravery and will to stand against him as well. The guardsman Grey, and particularly Colette, they did far more than I could have asked." As Ssarak spoke, he turned his attention more directly towards Amary and Lyam. "And that risk did pay off in the end. Your people have undergone a great tragedy, but you are still alive. I cannot admit to knowing how you might recover, but it is at least still a possibility for your future."

[EthTenshi]

Sinys: His room.

The air itself had tasted stale as he breathed in the dankness from his sweat in the air. Unsatisfied with himself as ever his morning ritual turned into a struggle to continue through the day. It had been continuing for the past two weeks with little rest other than what classes he actually attended. In his arrogance he did not see why he had to be there when his father's murderer still breathed. However he had currently been working on his fourth full itteration of the forms he normally only did twice. He decided to double his workout wanting more results than what he had already, and for now his youthful body was allowing it. Signs that most people would recognize in the mirror easily passed right over his head.

Perhaps he intentionally avoided other sentient beings for the fear of hearing such things. Now was not the time for rest, the lull held no promises for peace. The things he valued most in his forms was the flexibility it gave him. No matter how he moved it had stretched his muscles that he didn't know existed previously, and toned him from the constant motion and weight shift. On his last stance he faultered stumbleing as his foot touched the floor remembering the blunders he made on the battle feild past. The exsessive blood spilt on that Cosh, and of course speaking out of place to a stranger. It was funny to him. for the first time he felt comfortable to speak to a stranger. He reflected the latter subject and decided that it was not so much as comfortable as his lips had loosened in the heat of the battle. The thought made him consider the things that could be given to enemies if he chose to follow the feeling again. Not that he knew anything, in fact he fear what he didn't know more. Slowly he took off the weights he placed on his wrists and ankles sighing heavily as they hit the floor with an obnoxious thump. He really didn't want to think of how heavy they were. His body didn't seem to care as it informed him that each weighed about fourteen pounds of dead iron.

Making his way to the door a little sorely he pulled up his robe over his thin but ropey muscles. When he closed the door he did not worry about blowing out a candle. Closing the door he began to walk down the hall following his nose to the kitchen, something delicious was being made and he couldn't remember his last warm meal. His head felt a little light as he traveresed slower and slower to his destination. Eventually he took a knee and rested for the time being. He evened out his breathing carefully and stood when he was ready.

A thought invaded his mind before actually entering the kitchen, he took a strip of cloth and tied it over his eyes. It had been one thing to be around mages whom get to see the extra ordinary. The concept of disturbing a poor cook creeped up on him quickly. He wondered why he thought of doing just such. He had always considered his village to be ingorant of the needs of a blind person, this thought presenting itself to him brought on just one more. So far not too many people seemed to think he was blind here, at first. So he tried making it a little more obvious. Leaving his home had most certainlty been a double edged sword. His weapon was cutting him from inexperiance of this world.

Stepping into the kitchen Sinys began hunting for food, mostly fruit, bread, soup and vegtables. He knew that he was in need of real sustenence, for now his mood for meat out weighed what he was finding. His nerves were on end with the thought of flying kitchen knives being pointed at him without his knowledge. The thought was ridiculous but it still sat in the back corner of his mind screaming assurance. He had heard of such things by word of mouth. That kind of information isn't to be trusted. During the search for food he made a very rough map of the kitchen in his mind. Each solid surface traced with his bubble, anything moving outside of his range before he got around would remain hidden. There was also the smell of food masking most of his nose power, he had a love hate relationship with the thought.

[Lucius Cypher]

Annabeth Gulch

Annabeth quietly watched as everyone started gathering around Lyn. She had only stopped by to say hi, but now it seemed like there was going to be a little impromptu party. Keri teased Annabeth about not knowing what a mulberry tree was, to which Annabeth's face grew red. "Well excuse me, I read minds, not trees!" She didn't mean anything bad from it however. Annabeth was merely returning Keri's tease with her own. Still, Annabeth felt uneasy with Tyrael around. She's heard of what he did back at the catacombs, and while she doubts he would dare do something while they were in the college, and near Lyn, Annabeth never trusted him since day one. Annabeth decided to quickly place herself away from Tyrael which brought her to Helena. Looking at her closer, Annabeth noticed the... Things on her face. They looked like some sort of glass mask. Annabeth's never seen anything like them before. "Say Helena... What are those?" Annabeth pointed towards her glasses.

Tyrael Marchrosias

Slowly, a small smile cracked on the old demon's face. Being around Lyn always brought his spirits up. It put his demons at bay. Lyn asked Colette how she managed to get Tyrael out, but he was more than willing to answer himself. "With a strong arm and not taking no for an answer." He looked up into the trees and noticed that the mulberries were ripe. That reminded him that it was around the same time for some of the animals to come back to the forests. Most of the natural predators have already moved on, leaving the land ripe for game. He debated taking Lyn out for a hunt. But her first, proper hunt should be overseen by Mar. Thinking about her made Tyrael feel sad. He distracted himself with Lyn instead.

"Now then, what are you doing out here Lyn? Not causing any trouble are you?"