Avatar of Jumbus

Status

User has no status, yet

Bio

User has no bio, yet

Most Recent Posts





Franz was in no particular rush and had no interest in causing a scene by trying to skip ahead. He simply waited in line like everyone else until he reached the front desk. He spent the time mingling with the crowds around. Franz would subtly inform people about the witch trial Robespierre saw fit to put on. How awful, who would be next to face the pyre of the rabid Frenchman?

It felt like no time at all before Franz had reached the front desk to be greeted by a kindly Swede. Her general demeanour told Franz that he may be able to get away with a lot more than he was allowed. “Ah, good morning! How are you doing today?” Franz decided to match her cheerful disposition, it seemed like the best approach.

“I don’t mean to use too much of your time. But you may have heard about the demonstration this morning?” Franz’ expression shifted to more of a sombre one. “Well, I have the unfortunate task of opposing Robespierre. I am finding the prospect rather stressful. To go against a man of such renown in legal matters will be challenging given the sheer amount of resources he has… I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to rope you into my worries.” Franz snuck a smile back as if to portray he was putting on a brave face.

“I am just enquiring about gaining a list of students registered here in Bermuda. I think such information will be essential for my investigation. Picture records would be preferred as well, Miss Bordeaux claims an egoist of a peculiar appearance had provoked to her. I’m sure this won’t be a major ask considering Robespierre will have access to the same files, no?”




@ERode



Leon had never slept with curtains. He never saw the need. Privacy was no issue and having the sun wake him up was one of the most pleasant parts of his day. Like an alarm clock that provides a warm hug instead of the harsh noises that rip you from sleep. In fact, the only time he slept with curtains drawn is when his company insisted.

The first rays of dawn kissed Leon’s face letting him know it was time to get up. But his waking was hardly peaceful. Leon woke with a slight shortness of breath and a headache as if he had been drinking. It wasn't a good feeling, such was the consequence of using all of his magic energy last night. Leon thought back to the rose he had turned purple. If he hadn’t done that, he wouldn’t be experiencing this right now.

Why did he do that? Was it for general adoration? No, he wouldn’t need to change the rose for that. Was it so that he could eventually date that girl? No, because otherwise he would have at least asked her name. It was for some kind of satisfaction that Leon himself couldn’t quite grasp or define. Still, just because he couldn’t define something doesn’t mean it is any less worthy of pursuit. Leon would take his magic hangover again and again for such a thing.

The expression Leon wore upon waking was a much more exhausted one. Rubbing his face as he got out of bed and stumbled to the mirror. He chucked on some stylish black pants and shoes to match. A few gold bands on each wrist, a necklace with the symbol of Ipte on it, and styling his hair just write. There was only one last thing to do. Eyes closes, Leon gave a long exhale in front of the mirror. When he opened them again, he was back to his regular self, chipper and optimistic with that characteristic smile. He was finally ready to leave his room, forgoing any shirt or covering for his top half. Jewellery and lean muscles were enough, it was the morning after all.

From the looks of things, Leon was the first ones up. Such a thing was expected when you wake up at the crack of dawn. With the light steps of a dancer, Leon made his way down the stairs and out the backdoor to see a very small backyard. It was only a garden full of various fruits and vegetables. At least, that’s what Leon hoped as he was unable to recognize any of those plants.

Hopefully, Zeno Moonlight didn’t have a problem with Leon sitting in her garden because he was doing it anyway. He spent most of the sunrise basking in the glow while eating a fruit he didn’t recognize but it tasted delicious.




Leon’s sun meditation was disturbed by someone from the kitchen. By the sounds of it, Jomurr was already up and clearly bothered by something… again. Leon did know how long he could last with someone of that temperament. It seemed every little then produced a frown on the young lord. Maybe it was worth trying to show him the brighter sides of life. Hopefully, it could turn his disposition around for the better. It was unlikely he'd accept though. For now, he had to deal with regular old Jomurr. With a last meditative breath out, Leon rose from the garden.

“That is quite the list of food, Jomurr.” Leon stood in the kitchen taking a sip of some water he set aside earlier. “I hope you don’t expect for us to finish all that this morning.”

Leon took the note on the table and gave it a skim. Zeno Hamir Zemana, eh? Nothing sparked to Leon's mind about him. Unsurprising considering how little attention Leon gave the ceremony until his own name was called. “Maybe we can share it with Zeno Zemana’s group. You wouldn’t know anyone in that group, would you? I hope they’re cool.”





Interacting with: Eun-Ji @Medili Carmilla @Animus Anna @Izurich Ikon @Force and Fury



Kiss from a Rose


Leon was the first to take a seat and proceeded to sit right in the centre. The parade was a wonderful time, not just the light show but tossing roses to the adoring masses. But for all the spares he was given, he was now down to a single rose. Leon twirled the dethorned flower in his hand, wondering at the possibilities of what he could do with it.

Looking around, Leon got to look at all the arriving students. Who would he get along with? There were all sorts flowing in, beautiful, ugly, cute, scary, and worst of all, boring. There were some with standout clothing choices. None better than Leon’s own style, but that was an impossibly high bar to clear.

What he didn’t expect to see was a pair of piercing violet eyes.

For someone who travelled the world, Leon did not see a lot of people with strange eye colours. Not unheard of, but quite rare indeed. It intrigued him and gave him a fun idea of what to do with the rose. She ended up sitting quite a distance from him. But he was Leon Solaire, this wouldn’t stop him from doing something he wanted. Leon snuck the rose into his cape and made his way to the girl with the violet eyes.

When Leon arrived, the girl had people sitting on either side of her. This wouldn’t do. “Excuse me, may I borrow this seat from you.” Leon asked with a soft tone to the painfully ordinary girl next to Eun-Ji. The girl blushed and quickly left the seat to Leon. Leon smiled at her “thank you, I won’t be long.” Leon proceeded to take the seat in a laid back fashion before looking toward Eun-Ji.

“I’m sorry, I couldn’t help but notice the colour of your eyes. They are very nice.” Leon said putting on his best smile. “But that isn’t why I’m here. You see, I believe I was fated to meet you… Let me explain.”

“I was throwing roses at the crowd during the parade and happened to see the most peculiar rose. I became drawn to its colour and decided I would keep it to myself.” Leon reached into his cape and drew out a vibrant violet rose matching Eun-Ji’s eye colour. “I love this rose a lot. But you see, when I saw your eyes, I knew it never belonged to me in the first place.” He handed the Eun-Ji the rose.

A simple binding spell developed with arcane theory was Leon’s Colour Change, the ability to change the colour of objects. Given the small size of the rose, it didn’t take too much energy. But still, it drained the last of Leon’s already dwindling magic reserves. For something like this, the trade-off was worth it in Leon’s mind.

“Well I best get back to my seat, I think the ceremony is about to begin.” Leon looked around at all the people staring at his display. [color=fff200[b]“And I wouldn’t want a lady such as yourself to be subject to needless rumour.”[/b][/color] Leon left and made sure to thank the girl whose seat he had stolen.

Leon had a moment to consider if he should have introduced himself. And decided against it, she knows who he is. Leon was certain of it.



Royals


The rest of the show was uneventful. Leon sat stylishly in his seat as he watched the kings take the stage.

Jobanzaggah and Rouis, now there were two rulers who knew to play up style. They truly wore the fashion of kings and wore them well. Leon suppressed the urge to clap with each of those two entering. Horik and Sancho, well, they tried. Or at least Leon hoped they tried. It baffled Leon that people withthe wealth of kings struggled to dress.

Leon’s mood changed entirely when Malatesta took the stage. Leon looked toward the stage with a serious expression of respect to the man. Malatesta could make out Leon in the crowd and they made brief eye contact. Or at least that is how it looked to Leon. He gave a small head bow to the Doge of Revidia. Leon had to make sure to show respect in the right places, hewas a piece on the chessboard of royals now.

Leon found it funny how far he had come within this last year. From just any great performer with a tendency toward exaggeration to a considerable political piece. In Leon’s mind, everyone was a political piece in the end. He just prefered to be a name rather than a statistic. Plus… plus… why was there a floating hand going toward the stage?

Leon was quite adept at the theory of illusion, so he could pick out a floating hand when he saw one. However, Leon never practised illusion. This is because he finds the replication of real-life objects to be boring. Leon is far more interested in using the power of light to create things greater than some boring old reality. So, when Leon saw some shifty illusory hand swimming through the crowd, he didn’t care. Probably some dorky younger student trying to pull a prank. How mundane.

Having been lulled into a sense of security from the boring hand trick, the boom on stage had Leon jump a bit. What was that? Was this some kind of attack? Leon was happy to see no one was hurt. But it left him wondering what had caused it.,,

What had caused what? What was he thinking about? In almost a split second, Leon had lost memory of the event. Initially, Leon struggled to recall what he was just thinking about, but couldn’t. Was he curious about it? Sure. Did it bother him greatly? Not really, no. Besides, stress causes wrinkles. Best to leave the matter in the past where it belongs.

Leon took out his hand mirror and checked his hair as he waited to get assigned a master.



Everybody loves Me


Leon’s name was called first, but he waited for the others to walk first for dramatic effect. He stood up from his chair and strolled toward his group, playing up his approach for onlookers.

Leon reflected on the team names that were called. Illannak. That rang a bell. A faint one but it was present. Subject to the recesses of Leon’s mind full of hundreds of people, he couldn’t quite place it at all. On the other hand, Jomurr Ikon III needed no introduction. A noble with such renown and style, certainly the boy was after his own heart. Leon had few doubts they would make fast friends.

Finally getting a good look at the group, Leon developed an excited grin. They were all fashionable. Correct dress sense was a good sign for any group, it meant their priorities were in order. He wondered if any of them make their own clothes, Leon had dabbled with the idea before. It could be a fun hobby over the year.

Fades-in-moonlight had a very strange look to her though. Unaware of the term Greyborn, the grey skin seemed very unhealthy. Both Ilannak and Camille also looked rather pale. These ladies certainly could do with some time in the sun. Still, it was a small blemish in an otherwise perfect looking group.

Leon finished his approach with a majestic bow. “I, Leon Solaire, am present.”

During introductions, Leon couldn’t help but notice one of the girls looking at him. Managing a look toward her, something did spark in his head. Determining this was Illannak was easy enough, but figuring out where she was from was much tougher. She was a merchant girl so it’s unlikely he knows her from her name alone. He recognises her face, so she probably isn’t just another nameless face in the crowd where was she from. Where did he meet her? Leon hoped she wasn’t from when he was doing his service to Ipte, that would be very, very awkward. Instead, Leon gave her back a friendly smile before turning his attention to the group conversation.

Leon picked up from Carmilla’s introduction. “Why thank you Carmilla. I am also looking forward to this year with you all. We have already shown we have the most style. Now it’s a matter of letting them know who the best magicians are.” It was an egotistical statement, but Leon stated it with confidence.

Later on, Leon watched the fireworks show with the group. He was entranced by the majesty of the flying lights. Why did they have to fade so fast?







“A pleasure as always, Ms Ryuuko. It is my duty to exceed expectations when I can.” Franz replied to Ryuuko. He bowed his head slightly showing a sign of respect for his future colleague.

Franz was glad the others had assumed he was genuinely trying to defend Jeanne’s case. The matter of the fire witch’s mental stability had been the subject of many rumours. Even if the girl wasn’t lying, it isn’t certain that this ‘monster’ truly exists. In truth, Franz did not consider Jeanne innocent. The burning had definitely been caused by her and only some slim gaps in the evidence left a case open to contend. Franz had ulterior motives driving him.

But. There was one person who didn’t seem to buy what Franz’ had said. Jeanne herself. After his whole speech, Franz expected some sort of reaction. A request for his help or even just a look of desperation in her eyes. Franz got nothing as he had expected. Her voice was free of doubt and her eyes held a certainty to them. For all his ability to manipulate a correct response, it was like talking to a brick wall. Such certainty during a time when she is completely helpless speaks to an incredible devotion and belief. Devotion to what, Franz was not so sure.

But what if she was telling the truth? What if this Egoist monster did exist? Sure it didn’t dissuade Franz from his assumptions about the girl’s character. But it was worth looking into. If nothing else, it would help him have some hope of winning this case. In addition, the motives of such a beast could give him a better insight as to why Jeanne was a target.

“Yes, I believe some brunch is in order.” Franz proclaimed in response to Ms Bordeaux. “Although, I would like to address a small matter elsewhere, so I will join you all a bit later.” Franz turned his attention to Nazca. “I have heard about your clockwork avians. Would you be able to lend me one so I can find my way back when my business is concluded? I assume that is within your abilities, no?” He asked with a widening friendly grin.

With that concluded, Franz left the plaza and began making his way to the administrative buildings of Bermuda. Surely if such a beast were to exist, they would be on the student records. Perhaps there are a few French students who have a bone to pick with Ms Bordeaux as well. Maybe it could help get him some dirt on Robespierre. If this 'Egoist monster' ended up being fictional, a dirt throwing match was probably the best option.




@Yankee@Medili@banjoanjo@Click This@ERode



Leon would have loved to have written his own speech, he really would have. But he didn't only get this speech opportunity from the Revidian Doge, he also probably wouldn't have come to this school without him. Leon had a lot to be thankful for. So, when a Revidian messenger gave him his speech for the opening ceremony, he couldn't refuse. Besides being the first non-noble to do this was a big enough statement in itself. If he were to go too overboard with it, he would risk offending powerful people or even worse. Some jealous noble house could think it a good idea to slip a knife in his back. Leon valued the gifts of the Revidian Doge and more importantly, he valued his life. So he just read the words he was given.

If someone were to ask what Leon was trying to say when he accepted this, Leon would say 'it's up to your interpretation'. It would be the perfect answer really. Leon could say nothing about why he actually took it and the people would draw their own self-fulfilling meaning from it. Plain and simple. In truth, Leon had little to no clue why he did it. To disgrace nobles? No. To empower the common man? No. To lift his own ego? Close, but no. The reality was Leon didn't have a deeper meaning to it all. Sometimes statements can just be statements, empty of all meaning. Plus it's fun.



In the moments after the speech, there was a delay before they were allowed to ride. Administration delays or something, Leon didn't pay too much attention to it. Instead, Leon admired his horse. An ivory Perrencian breed and a brilliant stallion at that. But most importantly, it was his horse. Leon pulled some strings to take his own horse in the parade, it matched the typical visuals of the leading horse so there was no issue. It meant a lot to him because this would likely be their last ride. Icarus was a travelling horse and had no business being locked in a stable while Leon spent his time away studying. After the parade, Leon would reluctantly hand him back to the caravan. It was for the best. So if this were to be their last ride together, it ought to be a good one. And Icarus was more than trained for the antics Leon had planned.

And they were off. Leon's horse took the first step through the gate, and the city exploded in celebration. Countless people cheering on the new students. Leon was in the front to see each and every one of the adoring masses. He gave out a cheery laugh as he tried to wave to them all. Beneath him, Icarus' training was put into action as he walked down the road with style and panache. Certainly, outside of silly noble traditions, Leon showed himself to be the perfect frontman for this parade.

Leon had his doubts at first, but he felt like he was home already. The large smile on his face grew even bigger by the minute.

It wasn't until he saw some familiar faces in the crowd did Leon decide to begin his actual show. They flew a yellow flag with a white sun on it so Leon could pick them out in the crowd. It was his caravan group, cheering to his right side. He gave a particularly big wave before his smile turned a bit more playfully devious. Taking his other hand off the reins Leon leaned back a little, entirely relying on Icarus' training to keep steady. Leon gazed toward the sky and extended his arms with a slight bend and palms raised sunward. Then, he began unleashing light into the air.

By no means did this look harmful to the crowd, Leon knew better control than that. Although, it certainly would have been startling to some. Multicoloured trails of light took to the sky like fireworks, but more defined so as to see them clearly in the day. While Leon started off with simple trails, he quickly transitioned into drawing shapes and then figures. Animals of light danced across the sky above him. At one point, a knight of yellow fought a dragon of red. Leon created tales of wonder and spectacle for the crowd to see without saying a word.

After only about three minutes, however, Leon stopped. He was a little out of breath after it all but could hide it well. Leon wasn't able to sunbathe quite enough this morning because of the parade preparation, plus solid light in the day sky was a draining feat. It was no wonder he couldn't hold it for too long. He was lucky to have ended on a finale rather than having it fizzle out.

Even if it looked like Leon would be running on low for the rest of the day, it was well worth it. He looked around to see even more cheering and some frozen in awe. But alas, it was back to smiling and waving. He still had a few roses to throw out after all. Leon requested extra.








hey this looks really cool. I'll make an application if there's still room after I've read through the setting



No reaction, the boy gave Franz no reaction. Not just being silent, but as if Robespierre was ignoring him. Surely there would be something, Franz thought. He wasn’t even particularly defending Jeanne, instead, more commencing a direct attack on Robespierre’s character. And still nothing. Although Franz could hide his emotions well, a sense of frustration had taken hold. Robespierre had made an enemy today. Looking around the volunteers, Franz surmised that he may not be the only one.

As Robespierre finished his speech, Franz feigned a smile and waved him off from the sandy remains of the stage. “Auf wiedersehen, Herr Robespierre!”

Robespierre finished his exit and Franz looked toward the crowd of volunteers. Ryuuko was an obvious volunteer and he wasn’t particularly surprised to see her there. Bang was a well-known celebrity and Franz was happy to have his help. Having him so firmly on the same side helped Franz overlook his inability to say ‘Steiner’. Franz smiled seeing Inti at the front and volunteering. Frankly, he didn’t expect to see the abya yalan boy so soon after the party.

Speaking of abya yalan, the final volunteer was Nazca Whitehall. She was an easily recognizable figure, few in the Occident wouldn’t have heard of her. A runaway princess adopted into a rich noble’s estate is the closest thing to a modern fairy tale you could get. Although the reputation of her Polymath skill had yet to reach Franz’s ears.

Bang looked in awful health, that was obvious enough. Franz wondered if he would be a suitable guard for someone as dangerous as Jeanne. Still, it was Bang’s voice that backed him up when he took the stage. “I am grateful for your help. I am unsure his highness would have retreated if not for your… more levelled approach. I assume I am talking to the famous Le Bang Kieu. My name is Steiner, Franz Steiner.” The ‘Steiner’ was slightly louder and spoken with crystal clear in its pronunciation. Franz reached out for a handshake.

That concluded, Franz turned to the still bound Jeanne. He made eye contact before drifting his view to the ashes of the library behind and then back to her. “You seem to be in quite the predicament, Miss Bordeaux. I will not insult your intelligence by claiming my actions are entirely selfless and noble. You know better. However, I am willing to help prove your innocence and even defend you at the trial if need be. The decision to accept is entirely up to you, of course. But other applicants seem to be sparse at best.”





Franz usually slept without trouble. For someone with a noisy mind, he found no issue drifting away into a calm, peaceful slumber. Which is why it caught him by surprise to wake up in need of catching his breath. It stunk in here, a far cry from what it was like that night. He could hear the vulgar language of other students coming from the hall.

It didn’t take long for Franz to put together what had happened. The fog had rolled in and drenched everything. Whoops.

Putting part of his shirt over his nose, Franz addressed Ryuuko. But he kept his voice quiet enough so only she could hear. “If I had known that it would turn out like this, I would have just spent the night outside” Franz joked. “If you are going to freshen up first, I’ll see what I can do about this mess.”

It had been quite a while since Franz had done any cleaning. In the Polymath academy, he was in the lap of luxury while he spent as much time as possible on his studies. Then again, it's not like he had to deal with prevailing nightly fog at the academy either.

It was time to put in some due effort. The housekeeping would likely clean up the mess later anyway, but it was a way to pass the time. Franz appreciated a clean room. A little bit of elbow grease and some very minor feats of Dynamicism made some quality progress before Ryuuko finally exited the bathroom. It still had a lot to go, but it was enough for now.

"Hey Franz, I'm going to go out and see what that announcement is all about. As for the room, well... We'll see later, I guess."
“Yes, I am quite interested in that announcement as well. But don’t let me hold you up, I’ll need you to fill me in on the details later if I’m late.” Franz stated as he begun packing away the cleaning tools and took out clothes from his bag.

"Anyway, I'll see you later!"

“Yes, see you later. Hopefully I’ll see you at the announcement if you don’t get lost in the crowd.”

Franz wished her goodbye before taking his time in the bathroom. He was thorough in washing himself. He would not disgrace himself with a sea stench as he went to meet his fellow students on the second day.

On his departure, Franz made no note of the disgruntled students around him. Simply put, he didn’t care much for their complaints. When he exited the ryokan he stood outside for a while taking large, heavy breaths. Sea breath was unbecoming for someone of his repute.

There was one stop due before the library, the radio station. For ease of communication, there are people who write down messages on paper. Franz walked in nonchalantly and received a letter that was due to him. It was a simple message of good luck from his mother and father. At least, that's how it would appear.

In truth, the message was an impossible cipher of his own creation. The details of which are only known to a select few in the Polymath academy. His new mission was detailed and clear. Franz couldn’t help but show a wide smile upon exiting. Not only would he be completing the mission, but also settling a playful curiosity of his in the process.



Franz was lucky to have been blessed with height at an early age. He had arrived later than most and only just made it in time as the demonstration began. A crowd of over one thousand stood in front of him. He could just make out what had happened in the distance. The Central Monument Library was little but ash and stone. And judging by the detained feminine figure with blonde hair, Franz had his own estimates on who the culprit was. But he would move closer through the crowd to get into earshot.

Indeed, to Franz’s utter lack of surprise, it was Jeanne who was the attention of this meeting. The fire witch of France was on trial for burning down valuable tomes and texts of a grand library. A man, no, a boy in man’s clothing was giving a public prosecution. Sure, he made a big talk about trials. But he seemed more concerned with condemning her here and now.

There was something Franz didn’t like about the guy. Maximilien François Marie Isidore de Robespierre. Franz was now near the front of the crowd and had a good look at him. He was around the age of everyone else here. But it was apparent he let his station get to his head. Wearing certain clothes, speaking in that way, keeping the authoritative demeanor he did. Maximilien thought he was above everyone else, didn’t he? Franz thought. Or more egregious, he thought he was better than Franz.

As the speech of his went on, Franz’s brow furrowed more and more. The details were off, things about what he was saying weren't adding up. Certainly the obvious culprit was Jeanne. Franz didn’t need a photo to tell him that. But the level of condemnation was off. How could he be so sure with so little evidence. Frankly, it all sounded like something Franz himself would try to pull if he wanted Miss Bordeaux out of the picture.

"I would like to volunteer myself for this task, Mr. Robespierre."

Franz recognized that voice and looked back to see Ryuuko volunteering. Certainly she would be a good fit to guard Jeanne. He was happy to see her volunteer when no one else would. It almost made Franz not want to do what he was about to do, in fear it would steal her thunder. Almost.

“Public condemnation. Guilty until proven innocent. Is there anything else you had in mind to bastardise the justice system today, Mr Robespierre?” Franz took to the front while proclaiming this to him, but loud enough for the crowd to hear. “A rush to disgrace a fellow countryman is a very poor show of character. And yet, you do it so easily.”

“Miss Bordeaux is the subject of… unfortunate rumors. But is that enough to throw reason out the window? For the process of justice to be ignored?”

Franz got closer to Robespierre in a standoffish way. “Are you telling me that some undisclosed person was able to detain Miss Bordeaux and yet did nothing to prevent the fire? I declare this undisclosed figure has committed criminal negligence at best. Perhaps he had a more nefarious role in all this. Or do you suppose Miss Bordeaux waited here for the library to be ashes and then was detained by some selfless hero? That is almost comical.”

“One photo does not declare intent or circumstance Mister Robespierre, so I suggest you put away your pitchfork.”



@GreenGoat@Medili
© 2007-2025
BBCode Cheatsheet