Candlelight flickers across the curves and crevasses of stone walls, their dancing quickened as Ghislaine and his guest pass by. He keeps these halls dim and frigid. While most visitors find the south wing unnerving, Morris feels at home. This place reminds him of the mountain caves he was accustomed to.
"Why am I here an' no' wi' th' others?" Morris gripes as they enter what seems to be private chambers, tucked away in this quietest corner of the castle.
"Because you aren't like them," Ghislaine answers, looking over the room before meeting the boy's gaze, "Are you?"
"I-I," Morris blurts, puffing up with a protest but failing to find a proper retort.
"Oh, don't mistake that for an insult!" Ghislaine assures him. He gestures to a set of armchairs near the window. Morris is skeptical at first but finds no way to politely refuse. "I mean to say that you are special, Morris," Ghislaine praises, seating himself across from him, "Much like myself."
"We're no' alike at all...!" Morris hisses, scowling at the man across from him.
"Oh, we're alike in many ways," Ghislaine replies with a cool laugh, "We both have rare gifts, gifts that garner fear from our associates."
"Euan has rare magic..." Morris complains in a withering tone, his eyes locked on his own hands which twist and controt on his lap, "But he still got t' leave wi' everyone else. Am tired o' being left behind..."
"Yes," Ghislaine croons with a faux sympathy, "Young Euan does indeed possess valuable abilities but, much like his uncle, his skills are best applied on the battlefield. But you, Morris, have a more unique path set before you," Morris spares Ghislaine a glance, looking away again quickly. Years of disdain have left him ever cynical of olive branches. "You see, I once sat exactly where you sit now in very much the same position," Morris scoffs at the idea but Ghislaine continues, "Like you, my peers feared my abilities and, in turn, feared me too."
"Whit… can ye do?" Morris peeps despite himself, his scowl softening yet his eyes remain locked on his contorting hands.
"I posses Irkath's Eye and Vision," Ghislaine answers in a more cheerful tone, "I can see deception and even peek into Irkath's Plane . Are you familiar with this aspect?"
"It's…" Morris pauses, conjuring up the fairytales from his childhood, "Th' aspect o' lies?"
"A very common misconception," Ghislaine states as softly as he can, "No, Irkath is far more than simple lies! Irkath is… Well he is the aspect of the unknown, the keeper of lost and forgotten knowledge and the father of all secrets."
"Whit does 'is hev t' do wi' me?" Morris complains heatedly.
"It is why I tell you you are special, Morris!" Ghislaine insists, circling back, "Dark magic is already very uncommon but Irkath's blessings are the rarest. I believe you possess this magic."
"W-whit?" Morris stammers and his eyes widen. Ghislaine stands, turning to the window to obscure his smile.
"People are naturally afraid of the unknown," Ghislaine performs with a bitter frown and tremulous tone, eyes on the city below, "Those few with our gifts are frequently ostracized or even persecuted. Someone capable of weaving, revealing or piercing through deception or even into an individual's deepest secrets terrify their peers. Before my master took me under her wing, before his majesty made a place for me here, I had no one. I suspect you too are familiar with this treatment…?"
Morris feels tears welling up as Ghislaine glances back at him, searching his eyes. Morris' face scrunches and he wipes his eyes furiously as the tears roll out. Ghislaine turns again to the window as the boy sobs and grants him a moment of silence to regain his composure.
"There may be a place for you here as well," Ghislaine continues as the boy's sniffles subside, "If you are willing to hone your abilities."
"Whit d-dae ye m-m-mean?" Morris replies, still wiping at his face. Ghislaine turns and settles back into the chair.
"His majesty has an… appreciation for dark magic," Ghislaine speaks precisely, presenting a thoughtful gaze with crossed fingers, "He admires it. There is a collection of us here, in the capital, who use our rare abilities to serve him and further our group's interests. However, we only accept the most special, skilled and loyal into our society. The work we do is very important to the kingdom, far more impactful than mere soldiers.
"Whit... kind o' group?" Morris prods.
"I suppose…" Ghislaine sighs, looking down and raising his eyebrows, "It's more like a family than a group. We look after each other and the King looks after us."
Morris chokes down his initial eagerness at the thought of a family of people like him, not trusting himself enough to allow himself to hope. But such an opportunity cracks his delicate resolve.
"W-whit would- How would I…" Morris stammers.
"Don't fret!" Ghislaine comforts him and the boy tries to relax, "I am telling you all of this today because I believe you have the potential to not only be a candidate for this group but to perhaps take my place in the far future."
"Me?!" Morris gasps.
"Yes," Ghislaine chuckles, "But for now, I leave you with the offer to apprentice under me. That is why you have stayed behind. You do not have to answer me right aw-"
"Aye!" Morris blurts out almost immediately.
Ghislaine blinks in the face of Morris' fervent confirmation but then laughs in response, Morris' face flushing red in embarassment.
"Well... you'll certainly need that enthusiasm during your training. Irkath doesn't relent his secrets readily," Ghislaine responds, watching as Morris beams at the prospect. Ghislaine rises from his chair and Morris mimics his movements, "I believe that is all for today," Ghislaine sighs and Morris' smile drops all at once, "I have other matters to attend to. So for now, you may settle in here."
"Here?" Morris echoes in disbelief, gawking at the lavished chambers.
"Yes!" Ghislaine's answer is cheery, but to more experienced ears his tone is that of a spider who has captured its prey! "You'll find this and far greater rewards if you can learn to master your kaithur. I'll send for you when we are ready to begin your training."
Ghislaine turns and leaves then, Morris still speechless as he closes the door behind him. Ghislaine wears a pleased expression as he travels through the halls and it remains as he joins Ambrose and Martin in the great hall.
"I take it you were successful?" Ambrose greets him and Ghislaine's smile widens.
"It went far better than I had expected!" Ghislaine answers gleefully, "The boy is very... receptive."
"I pity him already," Martin grumbles and Ghislaine's smile drops considerably.
"Sour that my charge is more manageable, are you?" Ghislaine banters.
"While I endorse your project," Ambrose cuts in, "I won't tolerate fruitless distractions."
"Of course not, sire," Ghislaine breathes, his expression pleasant again, "And, if he learns quickly enough, he may be just what we need to find the girl."
"Hm," Ambrose hums, "I suppose we will see."
Resonance
Shadows swirl and flicker through Azowyr's Plane, charcoal smoke splashing to and fro like an umbral hurricane while the plane itself remains utterly silent. Tia finds herself here again amid this storm, hovering within the eye with no viable portal within reach. The shadows lick at her skin and sweep her about, silken but swift as they circle her. A human form peeks through the walls of shadow, one silhouette pointing at her in accusation.
"I know your kind!" she hears Ifani's voice again, distorted by the plane and nearly swallowed up, "You're weak, you're selfish!"
The storm worsens, quickening and whipping at Tia as her anger builds. This time she can't help but grit her teeth, offering an acidic sneer.
"I'm not weak!" Tia screams her yet unspoken denial into the typhoon and her voice echoes, pacifying the shadows directly around her.
Tia begins swimming through the satin shadows, kicking and thrashing against the flow and slipping along as they embrace her. Andrea and Zetian's laughter sound as she resists the storm, their figures lost amid countless others which ridicule her. Tia shrieks her wordless fury at them as loud as she can muster, splattering the storm into a tenebrous mist. Finally, the plane settles enough for Tia to regain her bearings, finding herself hovering over the wispy depths.
As she peers about again, its as if the storm had never existed. All that is left is her own shadow, peering back at her from below with an unnerving gaze reflected in murky waters. Haltingly and with clear uncertainty, Tia moves left and right, testing this umbral mirror of herself and feeling relief as it imitates her. But there is also a presence she hadn't noticed before looming behind her shadow, ominous and heavy. When Tia whips around there is nothing behind her, only smoky, rolling waves. As before, whispers of the physical world overlay the umbral sea and little grey wisps of portals waver gently in the distance. All is tranquil and calm... on her side of the sea.
Within the ominous mirror below, a storm only intensifies especially as the harrowing presence within focuses entirely upon Tia! One colossal hand reaches for her shadow. At first dozens and then hundreds of shadow hands imitate it, reaching and pressing against the seeming barrier of the umbral waters. While the surface bends and presses upward, the barrier remains unbreached. He appears then beside her shadow, barely visible, and places his hand on her shoulder.
Tia feels she is vibrating as he looms darker and darker astride her shadow, a shadow which no longer imitates her own motions. She remains unperturbed as Tia grows defensive, fear rising from within as strange vibrations ring through Tia in a way that is beyond physical—her soul itself is quivering! Tia swivels towards the portals in the distance, a dreadful resonance accumulating in her chest. In response, the countless umbral hands reach through the wipsy umbral waves, stirring the sea into a frothy fury and probing blindly for Tia. Tia struggles against them, kicking and thrashing as they first grip her ankles, followed by her legs until eventually she finds herself waist deep!
"Child..." an unnaturally sonorous voice sounds all around her, vibrating the entire plane!
As Tia struggles against a sea of shadowy hands, her shadow still and calm in contrast to Tia, she suddenly feels something odd connect in her chest. A quiet, serene and soothing sensation envelops Tia, wrapping itself about her soul and sheltering her. She closes her eyes, realizing that she already knew this energy and she wonders how she had ever overlooked it. While others fear or even resent this presence it had welcomed and guarded Tia in her loneliest moments. It whispered validation in her ear and guided her on her isolated path, an unseen companion. But it is also resentful and contrary, gripping her soul and pushing the outside world away. This sensation lingers in her chest until she realizes she is being pulled down into the waters, smoky black hands intent on submerging her entirely. Tia's fear revives all at once, instinctively gasping for air as the water reaches her neck which she cranes to keep her face skyward, nearly engulfed as the portals disappear from sight. She is overwhelmed by fear, by her own helplessness, as whispers urge her to let go.
"Tia!" Duff calls to her but she cannot see him, the darkness intensifying about her as she is yanked into the ominous presence, consumed by it...
Tia gasps suddenly awake, a sharp pain digging into her hand. Duff is biting into her but to her horror, she is still inexplicably within the shadow plane and she feels a cold panic sink into her stomach.
"How…!" Tia yelps and whips around.
The presence within the shadow has faded away but her fear is still dreadfully palpable. The resonance in her chest remains—a link remains.
"Come on!" Duff husks, guiding her towards a portal.
Tia swims after him, still heavily reeling from the dream and too shaken to question how she navigates the plane on her own.
"H-how did I get here?" Tia asks but Duff is silent, "Duff, how!"
"You... must have used Euan's form while you slept," Duff lies and peeks his head through the portal.
It leads to a dark alley in the recruits' lodging zone. Once he is sure its clear, he gestures for Tia to go through. She drags herself up and out. Clear of the plane, her body is heavy again but she had never felt more grateful for gravity. Duff leers into the plane, projecting a harsh sentiment to the entity within before joining Tia in the physical world.
"What was that…!" Tia demands, her voice cracking.
The sun peaks over the wall of the compound into his silence. The bell tolls seven times and recruits begin emerging from their cabins. She is grateful the two of them sit in an inconspicuous alleyway.
'You need to avoid that place,' Duff states simplistically, offering her no explanation.
Tia leans her back against the wall and tries to regain her composure. She had never had a nightmare that intense before, more vivid than the waking word.
"Why do I keep having these dreams?" Tia questions more forcefully, her voice conveying desperation.
He stares back at her with empty silence. Tia scowls in response and shuffles to her feet.
"Fine!" she spits and leaves him in the alleyway.
Tia uses the direction of the dawn to find her way back to her building. A light goes out in her room and she presses against the wall. Ifani emerges and disappears quickly towards the common area. Tia makes her way inside, hoping no one had touched her belongings. To her surprise, and brief anxiety, the hallway is empty as she clears the stairs. She scrambles into the room to find all of her belongings placed back inside neatly as if Ifani had never touched them. Tia rubs at her eyes, too tired to consider why, but decides she doesn't have the time to care. She changes into a fresh set of clothes and cleans herself up before making her way back out.
Mess Hall
The spacious walls of a long dining hall contain a bustling and clamoring throng of teens as the new members of the procession rouse and navigate the compound. Clusters of tables capable of seating entire units litter the hall and might remind one of a tavern. However, this far-reaching structure could hold several taverns within its walls! There is also upper balconies which host aerial recruits while more luxurious booths are set apart from the bulk of tables. The mess hall is divided up sequentially, the senior recruits sitting on the far left while newer recruits sit on the opposite side of the gradient. With each compound, recruits gradually move farther to the left until they begin service. There were no official rules enforcing this practice but each group continues the tradition. Security staff monitor the hall for aggression or inappropriate behavior but otherwise let the recruits do as they please. Aldric and Florio are settled into one of the more private booths, a respectful if not reverent distance left between the prince and the rabble.
"Good morning, Aldric!" Zetian speaks delicately despite the clamor, greeting Aldric but not so much as glancing to Florio.
Aldric has to stop himself from sighing, having hoped no longer staying in the castle together would result in some distance between them. He realizes this was wishful thinking. No one could match Zetian's persistent ambition. Zetian is refined and carefully well mannered despite this tenacity and a brooding temper. Her face is comely, consistently complimented by rich makeup and framed by fine alabaster hair. Zetian tends to adorn herself with highly decorative and often vivid embroideries with flowing sleeves. Sapphire scales dust the edges of her face and body, her attentive eyes nearly always shining yellow, while regal yellow antlers poke out from beneath her hair and a reptilian tail sways behind her. As usual, one could feel a steady warmth radiate from the princess and varying crimson and amber hues creep underneath her scales, glowing along their edges.
"Are you adjusting well to your new lodgings?" Zetian asks, fluttering her lashes at Aldric.
"Good morning, Zetian," Aldric answers, attempting to sound polite but coming off stiff, "Well enough. And you?"
"Splendid, really," Zetian answers with an indulgent smile, "Your kingdom can be so accommodating! My roommate is so respectful and the two across the hall were quite entertaining last night."
"I see," Aldric answers with a hollow smile, "I'm glad you are comfortable. I was fortunate enough to have Florio as my roommate. I'm very familiar with Danut as well but..." Aldric pauses, wishing to say something less than pleasant but abstaining, "Euan and Danut don't seem to mix well."
"That must be... troublesome," Zetian answers after a brief pause, the mention of Euan souring her expression, "But nothing you can't handle, I'm sure."
Aside from a forced smile from Aldric, Zetian's comment is met with silence bordering on the uncomfortable. Her eyes slide to Florio as the moment drags on, absentmindedly picking at his food and squinting at her before giving a sharp, duplicitous smile.
"I suppose I'll leave you to enjoy your breakfast! I'm sure we'll see each other later, your highness," Zetian gives a slight sigh and offers him a small wave before moving on.
"I saw that face!" Florio snickers, nudging Aldric, "I don't understand what your problem with him is. He's a funny guy!"
Aldric's mood darkens but he maintains a simple frown.
"He's just another shady prospect looking to leech off of father," Aldric derides, "Another candidate hoping to join that project of his."
"Ah," Florio releases a thoughtful sigh, "His secret-but-not-so-secret society," he pauses to wiggle his fingers in false ominous theatrics, extracting a chuckle from Aldric, "'The King's Shadows'. His majesty has such a skill for names!"
"Eh, I dinnae," Euan sounds, plopping himself down next to Aldric and surprising them both, "It's a wee bit on th' nose, not really ma style!"
Aldric looses a scathing leer at Euan for his audacity, something which usually frightens any transgressor. Euan is unfazed, flashing a pleasant, chuckle-laced smile at the prince.
"Damn, Euan," Florio remarks, almost laughing, "You're either stupid or you have guts of steel. I haven't decided!" Aldric huffs and decides to ignore Euan entirely. Florio munches on his breakfast before continuing, "Is there anything that does scare you?"
Euan scans the hall and his eyes lock onto someone, his smile widening into a grin. Euan gestures behind Florio and Aldric peeks as well despite his initial protest. Euan points out Tia meandering between tables and seeking out a place to sit.
"Tia?" Florio laughs in disbelief, "She has a temper, sure, but she's hardly someone to be afraid of! Have you even seen her fight?"
"Ye might be surprised by what she can do. She's a wildling!" Euan answers and sighs fondly, "She nearly killed me th' first time we met."
They both blink at Euan and glance to each other, sharing their bewilderment. Florio looks over his shoulder to Tia again who seems uncertain and overwhelmed by the crowded gathering.
"What in Luxis name did you do," Florio squints at him, "To earn that?"
"Weel..." Euan continues with food stuffed into his cheeks, "I wis trying to kidnap her!"
Florio blinks at his candid admission while Aldric narrows his eyes at Euan.
"But 'at didn't work out so I went fur her da," his shoulders shake with laughter, "An' she zapped me good! Saved ma life though, ma uncle would've sliced me clean in half like he did Brochan."
"I have so many questions...!" Florio sighs as Euan gestures with his hands to imitate Martin's attack.
Aldric shakes his head at his friend, so easily ensnared by Euan's dramatic storytelling.
"She's a bonnie lass 'at one," Euan continues, watching her and chuckling.
"Its a rotten thing to say that from over here," Aldric complains, looking for any excuse to fault him, "I doubt she'd appreciate it."
Euan nods with a false frown before giving a sharp bark of a laugh.
"Oy, Tia!" Euan bellows, locking eyes with her as she turns with a relieved smile, "Yer a bonnie lass!"
Florio and Aldric gape, aghast, and there is a slight hush as other recruits listen in with confusion. With so many eyes on her, Tia's face reddens with embarrassment and anger. The eager hope in her eyes sours under the public scrutiny, whispers sounding in her feline ears, but Euan doesn't pick up on the tinge of betrayal in her scowl. Her glare only prolongs Euan's plastered grin as he awaits her response. Her ears flatten to her skull, her eyes narrow and her markings flash voraciously across her body.
"Drop dead, Euan!" Tia shouts back, less tolerant of his teasing after the morning she's had.
Already feeling particularly set apart in the crowded hall, seeing so many peers so at home in this foreign atmosphere, only compounds her solitary perception and Euan's teasing channels this discomfort into anger. Electricity fries the food on her tray and dances across her body. Security eye Tia warily as Euan gathers a snarky response. Tia breaks away and storms outside before he can embarrass her further, bitterly deciding to dine alone. Despite this, Euan sighs and smiles back at Florio and Aldric.
"Stupid," Florio states decidedly, "Definitely stupid."
Too exhausted to maintain her anger, Tia sighs and slides down the trunk of the same tree—decidedly her favorite spot.
"Stupid Euan," Tia mutters, scowling and picking at her charred food.
As Tia tries to salvage what she hadn't ruined, she spots Albert passing by. She stiffens, nearly rising, but her fatigue and his quick steps deprive her of the opportunity. After collecting his own food, Albert scours the hall for Ifani. He finds her quickly, given a wide berth as though she carries some invisible disease, and slides into the seat across from her. Ifani is adpetly spinning her fork around in her fingers and staring blankly at her own untouched food, expressionless.
"You look terrible!" Albert jests with a gentle smile, "Was it the new bed?" she doesn't seem to recognize he spoke to her at all, "Ifani....?" Albert repeats in a more serious but ever gentle tone. Yet she still doesn't respond, "Please, talk to me."
Ifani pinches her eyes shut and gives a sigh, attempting to find the right words.
"I had... an episode," Ifani states haltingly and Albert's eyebrows shoot up, a concern deep inside his mind validated, "I-I thought that I was better, that I had control but-" Ifani speaks quickly, loosing a sharp breath, "I blanked out and I..."
As Ifani chokes on her words, her face wavering, Albert places his hand in front of her slowly, palm up. She grasps it without a word, averting her gaze but squeezing his hand steadily. Ifani covers her eyes with her other hand, pinching them shut. Albert knows how bright and raucous the mess hall must be, grating at her in this vulnerable state. He taps her hand lightly with his thumb before speaking.
"Let's go somewhere else," Albert suggests, "You can tell me what happened, if you want to talk about it."
Ifani nods and lets him guide her out of the mess hall. She squints, the lights feeling too loud and pressing onto a burgeoning pressure building up inside of her. Albert finds a quieter corner of the plaza, carefully guiding her into the shade. Once Ifani is settled, Albert rifles through his satchel.
"Ah!" he breathes, drawing out a mandolin he had stashed away for just this kind of moment.
Albert plucks at the instrument wordlessly, producing a mellow but pleasant melody. This continues for a few minutes, Ifani focusing on the familiar song, eyes shut. She begins to hum along and even vocalizes the tune, off key but keeping with the tempo, feeling the notes carry away that building pressure. When she opens her eyes again, she is far more composed.
"Thank you..." Ifani replies delicately, her voice as fragile as she feels, "I knew it was going to be hard but... I really thought I was ready."
"You're being too hard on yourself," Albert reasons, "But I attacked her, Albert!" Ifani emphasizes, "And she never came back!"
"Who....?" Albert questions, his tone patient despite his confusion. Ifani huffs, leaning back and forming a tight frown.
"Tia," Ifani grumbles, her expression sour despite her concern, and Albert blinks, "She's my roommate."
Ifani doesn't attempt to hide her disdain for the concept, triggered in general by sharing her living space. Albert lets loose a pressured breath and considers the implications and potential consequences.
"Normally," Albert mutters, "I'd say she isn't someone to... worry about. How she may react... I don't know..."
"I thought you said she was 'different'," Ifani teases. Albert shrugs, his gangly limbs rising and falling in Ifani's vision, and his eyes narrow.
"I may have been wrong, I'm not sure," Albert admits, painted with uncertainty and a stern intolerance, "She's hiding something but I can't place it. Maybe she's just pretending..."
Ifani watches him quietly, with understanding. While others might find his doubts paranoid, she was all too familiar with the true source of his distrust.
"And here I was hoping you could talk to her for me!" Ifani complains, her eyes narrowing with annoyance, "She's so chatty."
"You think everyone is chatty!" Albert laughs, "She can't avoid you forever if you're roommates. Just try to think of what you want to say ahead of time."
Ifani groans at the prospect but rises to her feet. Albert follows suit but gasps suddenly before they can depart, mirroring Ifani with a groan of his own.
"What?" Ifani questions, popping a brow at him.
"I have a lesson with her...!" he gripes, already dreading the exchange, but earns a snicker from his friend.
Lessons
Albert dawdles before the library doors, reluctant to crack them open. He plays over his memories of Tia, ivory patterns appearing across his scalp, peaking past his hairline and framing his face. He pours over her slightest expressions, her choice of words, her reactions but still can't make up his mind or figure her out. He rubs his palms down his face and tries to brace himself before finally making his way inside. Tia peers out an open window with particularly tired eyes and poorly masked anxiety. She jumps as he places his bag on the table but relief washes over her expression as she realizes it's him.
"Albert!" Tia greets him with relief, her voice cheery but holding uncertainty as well.
Albert maintains uniform neutrality as his eyes flicker to hers briefly, her anxiety amplified as Albert neglects to mirror her greeting. He settles into his seat and prepares a scroll at the end of the table.
"Today, we're going to cover the Downfall of the Erlithmanil," Albert explains, jumping right into the lesson with a stern tone.
"Albert, um..." Tia tries to begin, hesitating as she considers her words and scrounges up the courage to question him.
"The Erlithmanil had ruled over Emynea as gods for untold ages," Albert continues, glazing over her attempt and remaining focused, "But humanity suffered under their whims. Zalikar, the Dark King, was especially prone to mass human eradications! It was at this point legend claims Luxis chose a hero to stand against them: Accia Syltharis, patriarch of the Syltharis line," Tia's timid silence lingers, mulling over Albert's disposition, "Armed with a unique blessing from Luxis, he allied himself with ten beasts and Sylthari herself. They were able to overcome the Erlithmanil one by one with both clever ruses and legendary battles. After destroying their bodies, Sylthari sealed their immortal souls into syltharian crystals and-"
Albert is forced to fall silent, Tia bouncing her leg so drastically that it rattles the entire table. He regards her with a deadpan leer and she sucks in a breath, staying the motion.
"Did I do something?" Tia blurts into the silence.
"Tia..." Albert grumbles.
"Because if I did," Tia reasons hastily, her words bursting from her mouth, "I-I'd at least like to know what it is that I did!"
"I am here as your tutor right now," Albert remains firm, "Not as your peer or unit-mate."
"But I thought we were friends!" Tia divulges with more candor and desperation than Albert was prepared for. He blinks as tears form in her eyes, uncertainty washing over her features and she balls her fists on the table. "If-If I was w-wrong and assumed...!" Tia splutters, swallowing before speaking more slowly, "I understand if you were just doing your job and I'm being pushy. I just need to know!"
Albert draws in a long breath, watching her expression carefully for validity, and releases a sigh before speaking.
"You laughed," Albert attempts to state clearly, "At Orin's cruel joke about Longwei."
Tia blinks away tears in response, seemingly dumbstruck. She interlocks her fingers atop her head, replaying the events of the previous day in her head. Her face scrunches, unable to scrounge up any memory that matches his assertion.
"I... I don't remember..." Tia confesses meekly.
"Longwei didn't deserve that disrespect," Albert scowls, starkly contrasting his usually timorous behavior, and his tone only grows more firm, "And I don't tolerate bullies!"
"But I have nothing but respect for Longwei!" Tia insists, recalling his wordless aid, "If anything, he's the coolest member of our unit!"
"What...?" Albert breathes, baffled by her seemingly arbitrary statement.
'Tia...' Duff cuts in.
'Not now!' Tia rebukes, squeezing her eyes shut momentarily.
Albert squints at her, noticing the misplaced expression.
'You were speaking with me, not the boy.' Duff informs her briskly, realization washing over Tia's face.
"I..." Tia begins, her eyes darting as she tries to find a way to explain herself without divulging Duff's involvement, "Sometimes... I get distracted or space out." Albert watches her, his skepticism plainly displayed. "I know its weird! I-I know that I'm weird," she breathes, her voice unsteady, "But I don't know how else to explain it. I wasn't paying attention when... um... Orin made a bad joke?"
"That..." Albert mumbles with a squint, "Is extraordinarily convenient." Tia winces but otherwise lacks further explanation, Albert leaning back in his chair as he contemplates. "If you don't have any more moments of cruelty or disrespect," he states with some reservation, "Then, maybe, we can be friends."
Despite this complicated and dizzying condition, hope sparks in Tia's eyes and she offers him one fervent nod.
"Now, back to the less-" Albert grumbles, refocusing, but the bell tolls and his sentence drops away, "It'll have to wait until next time."
"I'm sorry!" Tia winces, "I promise I'll stay focused next time!"
Albert gives a snort of a laugh and they both depart for the next phase of their schedules.
Despite her sleep deprivation, Tia approaches the obstacle courses feeling invigorated by hope! She lines up alongside several other aerial recruits, donning her division uniform. The outfit is tightfitting, a blue-green top and khakhi jacket which leaves her upper back exposed. This is paired with equally tightfitting khaki pants with the same tail mechanism she was accustomed to and boots with talons set behind the heels. Martia and Danut are present, nodding politely to her but otherwise keeping their distance.
As she looks over her peers, she sees recruits with bird talons as legs, wings as arms, those with tails and those without--most are avian but those with reptilian, bat and even insect wings are among them too! Some lack any wings at all, displaying colorful patterns on their hands and feet instead. Tia herself only manifests her wings and tail, tending to avoid flying with her lynx ears exposed if she could due to their sensitivity. She also tries to mimic the militant posture she sees but it still feels awkward to her.
The senior recruits stiffen suddenly, standing erect with severe focus in tandem. A woman in a blue uniform strides out before them, petite but having a fierce temperament and commanding presence. She scans the class, particularly scrutinizing her newest students. As her eyes land on Tia, she is clearly unimpressed. Even Tia finds herself averting her eyes as the woman's gaze sears into her. Something about her face seems familiar.
"I'm not going to waste our time with introductions because, to be frank, I don't care who you are or where you come from!" she speaks curtly, reminding Tia of Modeste, "We'll be seeing each other every morning, every day for the next two years! So I'll keep this simple. You will call me Miss Felicity, you do what I say when I say it and when you don't... you'll learn the consequences for yourself. Isn't that right, rats?"
"Yes, Miss Felicity!" Senior echo together, saluting in unisions.
Felicity levels an expectant leer onto the newest recruits until, one by one they salute her as well.
"You'll find the only way for you to earn my respect -and believe me, you want it- is equally simple: perform and improve," Felicity continues, her eyes finally falling onto her new roster, "I cover half of our aerial courses but if you are truly unlucky, you'll see me for auras and dual blade techniques."
Felicity releases a quiet sigh, glancing over the document as if she might toss it aside but thinks better of it. Rather than taking a roll call, she plans only to confirm their numbers. But then her eyes fix onto one particular name, a scowl growing steadily as she eyes it. The senior recruits are clearly fearful of the expression, bracing themselves with anxious anticipation, yet Felicity remains calm.
"Faaya!" Felicity barks, not tearing her eyes from the roster.
"Yes, Miss Felicity!" a senior recruit answers her.
Faaya is slender and discerning, having a warm golden complexion and bright lilac extensions to match the vivid feathers sprouting into wings from her arms. These feathers are also green, yellow and orange along her head and neck while her wings alternate between flourescent light and dark blues. It's clear she has the features of some beautiful songbird!
"Run the new rats through the course," Felicity orders, Faaya gesturing so that the rest of the class files towards the starting platform, "Except..." Felicity continues, everyone freezing as her voice burns with distain, "Tia Minx."
Tia's eyes widen and Faaya gives her a pitiable glance before moving on. Felicity waits until the others have departed before giving a sharp laugh, her eyes narrowing.
"Is there... something wrong?" Tia asks, nearly holding her breath when Felicity laughs again.
"Tell me," Felicity invites with a measure of amusement, "Who put you up to this? Berenger?" Tia openly displays her confusion and Felicity's amusement instantly runs cold, a dour frown presenting itself as she chops her hand over Tia's name, "Because this stunt is distasteful at best!"
"I don't know what you're talking about," Tia insists.
"There are no other Minx left!" Felicity hisses with gritted teeth.
Hot orange hues spill into her amber eyes and actual fire swallows up the parchment crumpled between her fingers, quickly reduced to ash! Wisps and embers manifest all around Tia, brief but hot enough for Tia to feel them.
"My name," Tia matches the heat in her instructor's tone despite her fiery display, "Is Tia Minx!"
"No," Felicity barks, raising her voice as more substantial fire swirls around Tia's feet. Her voice carries hidden wounds, "The only Minx left are me, my mother and my brother. Azryth would take us all before that lout has a child! If you don't drop this disgusting charade...!"
Tia blinks, suddenly realization washing over her face which is quickly followed by disblief. But she does recognize the similarities. Felicity is petite and has Evelyn's ferocity in excess but she also shares Allen's slate hair and sharp eyes.
"You're my Aunt Felicity?" Tia questions in disbelief.
The reserved teenage girl in the portrait Evelyn had shown her had carefully maintained, waist length hair and was fastidiously draped in frills and make-up. Meanwhile, the woman before Tia now had chopped her hair astoundingly short, fiery patterns shaved along one side of her scalp, and a bare freckled face. It is hardly a surprise Tia didn't recognize her.
At Tia's suggestion, her temper peaks sending orange ember patterns flaring across her body! But before Felicity can grow any angrier, Tia manifests her father's full form and all of Felicity's anger drops away all at once, succumbing to a messy tangle of emotions. Her expression cycles between emptiness, confusion, realization and finally bitterness.
"Baa-ch- I mean, grandma..." Tia speaks carefully, "Said she'd sent you a letter, but, she didn't tell me you were an instructor...!"
"Ha!" Felicity sneers explosively, "I stopped reading that hag's letters a decade ago!" Tia gasps, further fueling her aunt's bitter amusement, "I see she hasn't shown you her true colors yet. No, your still too young. Her 'precious granddaughter', right?" Felicity mocks Evelyn's words before frowning. She releases a long sigh through her nose, looking Tia up and down one more time, "Well, as lovely as this has been," she drones sarcastically before swiveling back towards the obstacle course, "We're done. Join the rest of the rats!"
"Oba (Auntie), w-wait!" Tia gasps, "That's it? We're supposed to be family!"
Felicity halts, shifting her weight and pivoting towards Tia. She shoots her niece an absolutely hazardous leer!
"Not even five minutes into my class and you've brazenly disregarded my rules..." Felicity growls, embers flickering to life far hotter than before--she isn't holding back. To Tia's surprise and horror, Felicity gestures with each sentence, flinging fire all around her, "When I say jump, you jump. When I say fly, you fly. And when I say go, you go now!"
Tia jumps back on instinct but in the end, she decides to stand her ground. Without flinching, without hesitation, flames breifly sear across Tia's skin. Tia shouts out in astonishment and is quick to assess the burns once the fire disipates. While her clothes are singed and her skin is reddened, there are no blisters or melted flesh--only pain.
Her eyes flash back to Felicity nonetheless, flabberghasted and wary. Felicity doesn't blink, doesn't waste an ounce of sympathy, rather proudly using her magic as punishment. Even the surrounding aides are unphased, her actions apparently ordinary. Tia realizes she can do whatever she wants to enforce her authority!
"Seems you're the type who only understands pain. I'm only going to repeat this one more time: I don't care who you are!" Felicity drones distinctly, "Family, House, homeland. The only thing that matters here is your performance, up there!" she gestures to the obstacle course, "Family is worthless. If you want my respect you have to earn it yourself, so... let's see what you're capable of!"
Tia hesitates and Felicity juts her chin to the others with an exaggerated leer, summoning a pocket of flame behind Tia which hovers ever closer.
"Now!" Felicity barks, dragging the fire just behind her back.
She watches Tia jump and flee, her own expression laced with discomfort, pity and disbelief. Just what kind of nonsense has been dumped into her lap?
Spar it Out
Tia's wing's quiver by the end of the class, Felicity running her through the course twice as hard as her peers. As she trudges her way to her next course, Tia questions whether the cause is her paltry performance or Felicity's distaste for their family. Her clothes and feathers are singed along nearly every edge, her aunt unfraid to enforce "proper form" and punish disatisfactory techniques with her flames, claiming pain is the best teacher! She had quickly come to understand the nervous behavior of the senior recruits in her presence.
The sparring grounds are littered with recruits by the time Tia arrives, divided up by units. Each group occupies one of the many marked fields, each stretching one hundred feet long and fifty feet wide. Tia hesitates at the sight of her own unit. Longwei and Orin are in each others faces again, Orin wearing the slightest of smiles in response to Longwei's irritation. Meanwhile, Ifani hovers nearby dispassionately, restricting Albert from intervening, but she draws in a breath as Tia approaches. Tia cannot look at her face, reflexively grasping her previously injured hand.
"What's... going on?" Tia prods haltingly.
"Ah, Tia!" Orin breathes with relief, donning a bright smile and seeming to dismiss his interaction with Longwei, "Finally, someone reasonable!"
He steps towards Tia but she steps back, her face tightening with a stern frown. His approach freezes, the boy nearly losing his smile as he assesses at her.
"What's happening is your boyfriend," Longwei bites, his words acidic, "Is an asinine pig!"
"He is not-" Tia gasps, face flushing despite her harsh denial.
"That's enough chatter!" a male voice booms across the grounds.
This thunderous, eardrum-battering voice instantly grabs up the attention of the chaotic sea of recruits who swivel to find its source. A surly and crabby looking older man leers out at them while a lanky, percipient man with dark hair and light eyes stands beside him. The surly one's beard is entirely teal as he speaks, faintly glowing as his voice bellows over the crowd. The second man surveys the new recruits as his coworker continues, plugging his ear with a sour frown.
"I'm Instructor Yannick and this is Instructor Zeki. We will be running most of your sparring, drills and fitness courses! Today..." Yannick continues, his voice easily rolling across the whole field, "You'll be getting a feel for your units. Split in half and spar! Winnin' side earns one hundred credits each!"
The air is empty of any significant sound and recruits glance to each other, uncertain and confused by his simplistic instructions. Aides who had been waiting in the periphery of the field step forward to each group. One approaches Tia's unit as well, the stark yellow of their uniform standing out even at a distance.
"These sparring sessions are simple," the aide assures them, the six teens gathering around him with trepidation, "Stay within the field and use the weapons we provide. Lethal force is prohibited but medics are on site for lesser injuries and accidents."
The aide gestures to several medics spread throughout the area, little red pockmarks in the vast, dull green field!
"So we just..." Tia questions in a small voice, "Fight each other?"
"Yes!" the aide confirms cheerily "There's no better way to improve your combative skills and teamwork!"
They eye each other and all seem apprehensive.
"Our weapons," the aide continues, "Are enchanted with Slip magic and won't land lethal blows. You'll need to purchase an enchantment from the commissary if you want to use your own weapons! If you are hit with a slip attack, fall unconscious or leave the field you're done. But you can forfeit at any time by leaving the field. Your units has four combatants and two supports, try to keep your teams balanced!"
A smug smile buds on Longwei's lips as his eyes land on Orin. He takes a moment to translate for Bolor and they nod to each other, resolved. Ifani and Albert are equally resolute to fight together, leaving Orin and Tia to choose sides.
"Someone," Orin tries to sound firm, "is going to have to-"
"It's fine!" Tia interrupts, catching all of them by surprise, "We're both combatants. I'll fight with Longwei and Bolor," she continues, her eyes sliding to each of them, "If they'll have me...?"
Longwei blinks, genuinely astonished by Tia's offer, but his own smile widens as he spots Orin's dissatisfaction. He gives Tia a firm nod. Mild satisfaction marks Albert's face as well, pleased Tia is making an effort to prove herself. Orin shrugs despite a tight frown, approaching Ifani and Albert while Tia, Bolor and Longwei huddle together.
"I've got dibs on the pig," Longwei states immediately, "And Bolor does best at range. What about you?"
"I'm Aerial but... my wings are still worn out from flight practice," Tia explains with a wince, presenting her hands to the pair instead and letting electricity crackle between her fingertips, "I might be able to zap them! But... I'm still not used to fighting..."
"I see," Longwei frowns as his eyes slide to the other three, "It can't be helped if you're new to this. Just do what you can to keep Ifani busy. Wulong and I will give that lippy prick a surprise!"
The six of them line up on opposite sides of the field and manifest their magic forms. Longwei resembles his appearnce from the previous night with white hair, yellow eyes and dark slate blue skin from head to toe. He makes no effort to hide his crooked smirk, eagerly gripping his glaive. Meanwhile, powder blue makings resembling clouds and snow appear across Bolor's upper body, especially his hands, and stripes of the same color run along the shaved portion of his scalp. In fact, Bolor shuffles the top half of his deel from his shoulders, leaving his upper body fully exposed, and the air surrounding him immediately chills at the touch!
Ifani and Orin are openly confident while Albert is far more nervous, readied just behind them with flute in hand. Ivory white markings frame his face while teal stains his mouth, throat and hands. Ifani doesn't convert her skin into metal yet but her markings are exposed nonetheless, amber and metallic brass smearing together across her entire body. Her hair and eyes also turn orange! Finally, Orin's markings are partially concealed but both of his arms glow pure, searing white all the way up to his shoulders. There is also a faint vermillion sheen in his eyes, emanating from his pupils.
The air is taut with anticipation, set loose by the aide's gesture.
Longwei exhales a nebulous fog across the entire battlefield, setting the stage for their battle. Ifani dashes forward unerringly despite the vapors while the rest enter more cautiously. Tia surveys the mist with sword in hand as she pads forward, the avian half of her eyes locking on to any hint of movement and her ears held alert. However, her surroundings are far from silent and her gleaming yellow stripes act as a natural beacon. Other battles clash in the distance and the disquieting melody of Albert's flute pierces the airy fog. This uncanny, fragile ambiance doesn't last.
Tia's ears flick to Ifani's footsteps, despite her attempt to flank Tia silently, and Tia whips around just in time to dodge Ifani's lunge. Ifani doesn't hesitate to continue her assault, her blade following Tia's body in a slashing movement. Tia grimaces, bringing her own sword around scarcely in time to meet Ifani's blade and she uses the flat edge of her sword to alter its path as metal scrapes across metal. Ifani's smirk is illuminated by the sparks, taking her time to feel out Tia's technique while Tia battles to conceal her fear.
On the other side of the field, Orin acts as Albert's guardian, waiting a few feet ahead of him and eagerly anticipating Longwei's attack. He brandishes a peculiar sword comprised of searing white plasma and a small hand crossbow hangs on his hip despite an absence of bolts. His phosphorescent weapon radiates intense heat within his grasp, this heat amplified as Albert continues his melody. Orin can feel an abundance of energy welling up within him as the notes reach his ears, an overconfident smirk in place as the heat evaporates the fog directly around him, creating a pocket of clear air.
This delicate anticipation shatters instantly as Wulong, Longwei's draconic familiar, barrels out of the fog with both Longwei and Bolor on her back. Bolor has a bow readied with an arrow drawn but he holds his attack. Stricken by the sight of a dragon and with no time to dodge, Orin braces himself with sword pointed forward. But he and Wulong do not collide.
Where Orin's body touches Wulong, he passes through as if she, and those she carries, consist entirely of fog. Orin is instead left with the sensation of a cool mist gushing past him, the trio slipping past Orin. And as they reform, Bolor takes his shot and his arrow flies into and past Albert's chest! The flute cuts off abrubtly as he gasps, glancing down and patting his chest anxiously to be sure he was unharmed. Once he's assured, Albert retreats, gaping at Wulong's fluid motions as she swivels back towards Orin like a ribbon in the wind!
"Shit!" Orin curses, the heat of his weapon dropping considerably as Albert's amplification fades.
Bolor remains on Wulong's back while Longwei slides to the ground, a hook and blade glaive in hand. Wulong saunters along the periphery fog surrounding the pair with a snarl sliding past her fangs, ascending and circling Orin as Bolor prepares his next attack. Bolor grazes his fingers over a handful of arrows, moisture from the fog gathering and glazing them with ice. Despite the grim atmosphere, Longwei can't keep the mirth from his expression, Orin's eyes still catching on Wulong as they approach each other. Orin loads his crossbow with plasma bolts generated between his fingers as they separate, ready and confident to clash despite a shaky start!
Ifani halts completely as Albert's melody cuts off, frowning before loosing a chiding sigh at her friend's quick defeat. Eager to wrap things up and return to her remaining ally, Ifani's face sinks into grim resolution. Tia tries to psych herself up, taking deep breaths and preparing her stance. Ifani watches her movements carefully but allows her to make the first move. Tia slashes her sword down onto Ifani's shoulder but Ifani catches it in her bare hand, a metallic sheen scraping against the blade in her palm.
Tia attempts to rip it out of her grasp but isn't quick enough, Ifani's hand searing orange and rapidly melting the blade. Tia watches with horror, her sword warping and curling around Ifani's fingers as she squeezes. Before the sword can snap completely, Tia attempts to shock her. Ifani sees Tia's stripes searing brighter, swiftly converting all of her skin to tungsten just as Tia releases the charge. Sparks roll over Ifani's metallic coating but she's totally unaffected, smirking as she destroys Tia's weapon.
"You don't even know how your own aspect works..." Ifani taunts her, "Do you?"
Tia backs away with slow and halting steps, unnerved and uncertain of how Ifani could be immune to her aura. Her mind races and her heart thumps, feeling exposed without a weapon. Tia considers fleeing as a familiar helplessness and a fearful chill creeps up her spine--the urge is undeniable. Yet Tia takes a breath, reminding herself this battle isn't life or death. She resolves herself to keep Ifani engaged for as long as she can -as Longwei requested- even if it meant her own defeat.
Ifani lunges at Tia with a slew of rapid attacks, Tia dodging frantically and wishing she could just use her birth form, scraping by on sheer reflex alone. If nothing else, Tia is naturally evasive. Ifani's frustration culminates quickly, fueled by Tia's luck and perseverance, and she feels the pressure to rejoin Orin grow with each passing moment. Fed up, Ifani places her foot just behind Tia's heel and begins heating up the air around her body. Tia tries to back away reflexively in fear of another burn, stumbling, tripping and finding herself prone on her back!
Ifani hovers over Tia, readying her finishing strike, and Tia braces herself. Would she still feel the blade? Will it hurt? Her eyes squeeze shut as her fear and uncertainty peaks and Ifani brings down her blade over Tia's neck. But Ifani's blade collides with some invisible barrier, diverting her blade aside as it slides against something impenetrable. Ifani squints, unable to discern any impediment. Nothing is between them. As Ifani scours for the unseen barrier, Wulong's tail swipes at her torso suddenly and, being so engrossed with Tia, she takes the blow unimpeded! The air goes out of her lungs all at once and she splutters for breath after tumbling away.
"Tia!" Bolor calls out and Tia opens her eyes.
Tia springs up, gasping at the brilliant sight of her allies as they come to her rescue, immensely relieved and grateful. Both Bolor and Longwei have gained a few burns, cauterized and distinct, but Wulong is entirely uninjured. Tia beams at the both of them, finding Wulong particularly magnificent after rescuing her. She is wholly unaware of Ifani missing her strike, believing her allies arrived just in time to stop her.
Bolor spots Tia's warped weapon tossed aside and as Ifani scrambles off the ground, still coughing, Bolor holds a hand over the markings on his shoulder. These arctic blue patterns glow in response, an icy hilt emerging from them. Bolor grasps this hilt and slowly pulls out a sword made entirely of ice! Longwei transfers it to her as he dismounts and Tia marvels at the transparent, almost crystalline blade. Yet the ice immediately numbs her fingers. She nods to Bolor with a grateful smile, wrapping the cloth of her belt around the hilt as they all refocus on Ifani.
Ifani studies the four of them, Wulong in particular, considering her options. She takes one deep, steadying breath and despite being outnumbered, she is firm with resolution and determination. Without a word from Longwei, Wulong takes to the air again with Bolor and Bolor coats his arrows with ice as he had done before. Meanwhile, Longwei exhales hot, pressured steam in Ifani's direction, seemingly to either burn her or redirect her movements. Unfortunately for him, Ifani plods straight though, unblinking and unbothered, and swings her blade into his attack. Longwei stumbles back in astonishment, her attack grazing his shoulder. Blood springs from the cut but it is shallow, clotting quickly.
Before she can press him further, Tia makes a lunge with her frosty blade. But Ifani doesn't bother dodging or parrying, the ice ineffective against her tungsten skin. Longwei hesitates to join in Tia's assault, a new uncertainty budding in his eyes in the face of Ifani's staunch defenses. As Tia moves closer to Ifani between strikes, she notices patches of metal converting back to skin along the edges of her clothing. Ifani raises her sword over Tia, left vulnerable by distraction, but arrows and ice shards pelt Ifani's back ruthlessly from within the fog, causing her to lose her balance. Tia takes her opportunity to reel back.
"She's getting tired!" Tia announces, her eyes shooting to Longwei with revived determination, "We just need to keep pressing her!"
Longwei nods back to her slowly, tenacity catching in his eyes as if Tia's were contagious. He grips his glaive with both hands in renewed resolution, lowering his body into a practiced stance. Longwei slashes and jabs at Ifani with his polearm while remaining out of her striking distance. Bolor responds wordlessly, loosing a barrage of ice shards and arrows from within the remaining fog. These zip in from alternating paths at unpredictable angles, attempting to throw Ifani off balance or destabilize her movements with a peculiar accuracy. The pair fight seamlessly together, already accustomed to the other's patterns, and Tia can already see contrast in their experrience against her own!
Tia tries to land a few hits of her own, despite the ineffectiveness of both her weapon and technique. It slowly chips off more ice with each hit. She even attempts to electrocute Ifani again, Ifani bracing herself at the gesture, but to Tia's frustration the charge won't connect. Ifani fights as if Tia and Bolor aren't present, focusing entirely on Longwei. They engage in a skillful and elaborate dance, leaving Tia to step aside in awe as their pace increases. Longwei jabs a final time, Ifani catching the pole of his glaive under her arm before grasping his weapon and pulling Longwei into her sword. Yet as she attempts to run him through, his entire body gives way to mist!
As Longwei blends and disappears into the surrounding fog, Ifani finds herself holding his weapon uncontested. Ifani turns to Tia then, losing control of her temper, and the air around her heats abruptly, a hot wind crashing against their cheeks! Tia takes to the air just as swiftly, her wingbeats throwing Ifani off balance.
"She's heating up!" Tia alerts Longwei and Bolor, all too familiar with the dangers of evaporation for water casters.
Longwei slips along the fog, reforming on Wulong's back just as Ifani's heat begins to evaporate the fog. She exudes this heat wildly in frustration, even the air far above her sweltering. As a swelling fever radiates the field, every last trace of the fog has dissipated forcing Wulong to land along its edges. The rest of the compound reappears, Albert watching anxiously from outside while Orin rests nearby, tended to by a medic. His burns, lacerations and punctures mend slowly, Orin stewing in disatisfaction. But they both perk up as the fog clears, finally able to observe the fight.
Albert can't help but grimace seeing Ifani's state, clearly worn from such a dramatic use of her kaithur. She is unable to maintain her form any longer, her metal skin fading, leaving her breathless and pale. However, Longwei and Bolor also appear to be at their limit, having faced Orin as well. They respectfully defer to Tia as they catch their breath, allowing Tia to finish their original match. Tia's sword is chipped and cracked but still manageable. While her body is tired, Tia's energy is far from bottomed out, not having made much use of her magic in this bout. Still, she questions whether Ifani might still have some kind of immunity. She's equally unsure of her ability to project her aura.
They circle each other only briefly, both girls fatigued and craving rest, but this time it is Ifani who makes the first move. Tia tries to parry Ifani's strike, shattering most of her blade and forcing her to discard it after their swords collide. Ifani smirks, letting her guard down with Tia disarmed again. Tia glowers in response, a fire raging in her stomach at Ifani's arrogant expression.
Tia grabs Ifani's sword arm in her hand before she can attack again and runs a paralyzing charge into her, Tia's novice technique leaving Ifani's body uncomfortably tense and numb. Ifani is left helpless to watch with wide eyes as Tia swings her other arm, her claws tearing into Ifani's chest and face. Tia digs her nails into Ifani's arm at the same time, the pain forcing her to drop her weapon. Ifani stumbles back as Tia releases her, hand hovering over her bloodied face, and Bolor finishes the match with a simple arrow.
As Tia huffs for breath, Bolor claps a hand onto her back with hearty laughter.
"Not bad," Longwei praises plainly, following after him.
"Nah," Tia pants, flushing red despite her sunny smile, "I would've gone down in the beginning if you guys hadn't stepped in. You two are so strong and Wulong..." she regards the dragon with blatant admiration, "Wulong was magnificent!"
A subtle smile tugs on Longwei's lips, his eyes sliding to Wulong. She is resting nearby but still watches them attentively with her alarming round eyes. Longwei chuckles at Wulong before looking back to Tia.
"She says you have good taste," Longwei informs her, "But she's just a glutton for compliments. I'd-"
"Ifani!" Albert blurts, rushing past them.
He crouches down to examine her, his sky-blue eyes raking over her injuries. She sits cross legged, catching her breath and watching them while shielding her face. Tia can't help but gasp, not having realized how drastic the injury was in the moment. She eyes her roommate's wound, her face streaked with clotted blood thanks to messy gashes. Tia frets that she went too far and Ifani notices her staring. She sees her nervous posture and how she opens her mouth several times to speak but says nothing.
"Quit fusssing!" Ifani grumbles, waving Albert off like a buzzing gnat while the medic stoops down to get to work, "I'm fine."
"I..." Tia hesitates, choking on her words before blurting out a fervent apology, "I'm still so sorry!"
"You're sorry?" Ifani snorts but then her mood shifts and she seems uncomfortable and solemn, "I wish I could say this makes us even but you got me in an official match. Me... I..."
Her eyes shut and her face tightens, struggling to express herself.
"Oh..." Tia peeps, grasping her once-burnt hand in realization, "I-"
"Wow!" Orin chimes, interrupting the painfully awkward exchange, "You're stronger than I thought! Though..." his eyes slide to Wulong, "You did have an extra hand."
"A pig and a sore loser!" Longwei remarks with an edge to his voice.
This quickly earns a resentful squint from the arrogant boy. Albert chokes down a laugh but Orin's focus is on Longwei and Wulong who rises, resting her head over Longwei's shoulder with a hint of a snarl. Longwei runs a hand through her fur to calm her but is pleased by his hesitation. Tia and Albert sigh in near unison, prompting Ifani to laugh despite the uncomfortable tension. Tia smiles, still retaining some hope for friendship amid them!
Hunter in the Moonlight
A gentle, continuous patter of rain sounds across the canopy and the sultry air is choked with moisture. While most of the understory is shielded from this downpour, the river's muddled surface is pelted as steadily as the leaves above. A figure conceals himself near the edge of this river, nearly invisible amid the foliage thanks to the ebony jaguar coat. He waits, green eyes regarding a tapir as it tenderly approaches the river. It remains skittish, peering about its surroundings with a nervous gaze. His eyes glint as it lowers its head to drink.
He springs forward, formidable claws extended, appearing more beast than man. The tapir startles and attempts to flee back into the forest but it is too late. His claws hook into its flesh as he grips his prey, his massive body pinning it to the ground, before he finally sinks his fangs into its throat! He tears the beast open, mangling and feasting upon the carcass with no need for weapons or tools. It is only the shape of his body which exhibits any indication of humanity, every other feature and behavior that of a predator, but even this is tentative due to his sheer enormity.
As he savors the raw flesh of his kill, the moonlight peeking through the trees and onto the river intensifies. He whips around, looming over his kill defensively, and squints into this gentle luminescence. Mina emerges from this light, her dainty footsteps tapping across river stones and her movements flowing like phantasmal gossamer. Familiarity lights up the man's face and he grins, his fangs still dripping with blood. As she approaches him, most of his jaguar features fall away leaving only his fangs.
"Chía!" his greeting oozes with delight and his baritone voice almost rumbles as he laughs, holding out his arms to embrace her
"Supay," Mina acknowledges him.
Mina throws up a hand as Supay approaches her, pointedly looking him up and down. Supay examines himself, his body smeared with blood and viscera.
"Ah, right!" Supay chuckles at himself, "Hold on."
He moves past her, wading into the river waist deep and splashing away the blood.
"Why must you always be naked!" Mina chides, a heavy sigh marking her vexation as he rinses himself.
"You've been spending too much time on those islands, haven't you?" Supay scolds back, waggling a finger at her, "You get so stuffy!"
When he wades back out he clasps Mina into a bear hug, uncaring of his nudity, and easily hoists her up with his bulky body.
"It's been too long, Chía!" Supay exclaims, setting her down.
Mina tries to smile at him but she cannot maintain it. Supay studies her face, his grin falling away.
"What is it, little moon?" Supay croons.
"I... It..." Mina breathes haltingly before trying to speak more clearly, "It happened again..."
Her voice is barely audible and her expression quivers. Supay sighs with one long breath and cups her face, her porcelain skin spectral against the cool hazelnut hue of his hands.
"Oh Chía..." his sigh borders on admonishment, "Why do you keep letting them hurt you like this?"
Mina pulls her face from his grip, her eyes pinching shut in both pain and irritation.
"It isn't their fault!" Mina insists, growing more bitter as she speaks, "It's always war!" a short breath slides out her nose, "I know you don't feel the same way I do but I can't just... close off my heart to them."
"Actually..." Supay baits, attaining a glance from Mina, "I might have finally started to understand your predilection... to some extent."
Mina's eyebrows raise and Supay dons an sly smile, his lips rolling over ivory fangs. He turns back to the river and gestures for Mina to follow. He halts once, spotting his dinner, but as he looks up, he spots vultures already catching the scent and decides to leave it. He helps Mina through the lush tangle and muddy muck of the rainforest floor as he continues.
"Not all of them are like those monsters in the valley!" Supay scowls at his own mention of Accia, "The people here don't try to place themselves above nature, they've become a part of it! I've really come to appreciate them and those further south."
"I can see that!" Mina declares with a hint of laughter, looking him up and down again, "You've always had a soft spot for them, hm?"
"What," Supay grins and gestures to himself, "Not to your liking?"
"Don't put words in my mouth, Supay!" Mina offers a fluttering laugh, but her mirth falls away rapidly and leaves her face troubled by somber pain, "But I..."
"But," Supay sighs, "You're not over him yet?"
"Them," Mina almost husks, "And no. They're... still out there."
"Well," Supay continues with a hint of mischeif, the fire-light of civilization gleaming between tree trunks, "If you have... anything left to say to them my son may be of help!"
"My, my," Mina breathes, her eyes widening by the smallest degree, "You really have changed!"
Two anthropomorphic guards are stationed by a ladder constructed of living woody vines, seeming to have grown into their intended shape. The guards bow their heads to Supay, their reverence for him apparent, but they grow wary as their eyes slide to Mina. Supay speaks to them in Runasimi, assuring them Mina is an important guest. Mina eyes the ladder with trepidation, causing Supay to chortle. He has always been amused with her refined and dainty mannerisms, so opposite to his own.
Supay's body morphs again but rather than taking on the features of a jaguar, winged arms mimicking those of a fruit bat sprout from his back. Leathery, flexible skin connects spiny, finger like bones and short brown and black fur covers the rest of him. The stretchy skin of these wings run along the sides of his body down to his feet and he even gains the long muzzle and rounded ears of this unique creature! He leaves only his arms unaltered, stretching his wings as Mina turns to him. While she is a bit surprised, she immediately understands his intention.
"Alright," Mina agrees reluctantly, allowing him to scoop her up.
His grasp is firm, the flight up the tree rugged and uneven. They move with lurching motions and Supay seems to enjoy the roughness of their flight, occasionally grasping and kicking off the tree trunk with the fingers on his wings. They travel up into the bowels of the canopy, Supay lingering atop a branch for a moment as Mina takes in the sight.
A vibrant but inconspicuous city has been constructed into the canopy but not a single structure is crafted from dead wood! Branches have been manipulated with plant magic to form bases and bridges from platform to platform alongside plentiful bridges. Rectangular structures called kancha are built into the trunks and branches themselves while any gaps are partitioned by fabric or calked river stones, all topped by leafy roofs. This city expands across the upper branches of twenty or more trees, painted with dramatic patterns but camouflaged from above by thick branches and screens of vines. Citizens pass between structures unfazed by the continuous downpour, a spattering of rain occasionally breaking through the canopy as branches sway.
One central building stands out against the other kancha, built into the largest trunk in the center of this treetop city. It overlooks a central plaza which seemingly hovers over the jungle, supported by living branches and vines. Supay glides towards this central building.
"Welcome to Pakaysacha, home of the Chakuqpa Runankuna!" Supay announces proudly, followed up by a laugh as they descend, "I have so much to catch you up on!"
Resonance
