"Very well." Aden tucked his hands into his coat. "Just want you to be aware...if they try to take anyone against their will, I will fight them. I've seen what Humans will do to our kind firsthand...I don't expect Kerbones to be kind to their 'guests'." Flashes of horror went through Aden's mind - students and colleagues of his covered ghastly machinery, tubes and wires going through their bodies, their powers being used to animate some technological monstrosity.
"I take it Darnell has given no explanation as to...it's reasoning for making these overtures?"
"When does Darnell offer a damned explanation for the burning hells anything?" Marcus muttered, putting away the scroll. "But I am on the same side as you Aden. If I have to watch as they 'attempt' to take anyone away by force, they will be met with hot steel and flames from me personally. That, and probably every other pyromancer within the Academy. I get the feeling they are going to be clever about this though. This is all new territory, so we need to be cautious, just as I am sure these paranoid people will be cautious as well."
With a reassuring nod, Marcus turned, obviously with something on his mind as he spoke. "Aden, we need to keep an eye on these strangers coming here. I have no doubt that the Nightshades will do the usual to find out anything they can, but they are limited in their abilities, and I doubt they will even kill off possibly problems. You, on the other hand, don't have any such reservations, and I'm confident can incinerate any possible technical intruders where they shouldn't be. This isn't a public command, mind you, but you have my....support that if you find someone sneaking around and they happen to be incinerated, lets just say that they somehow arrive at the pyromancer dorms. Clear?" Marcus had lowered his voice, even though there were not any notable people in the area. He made sure the gravity of the situation would get across in his voice.
Here we go. Taking the steps to make enemies, or a pointless preparation. Better an unused ambush than needing one.
"I understand. There was an accident, he tripped, fell down the caves into the lava flows." Aden grinned. "I can't be everywhere at once, though. If we need to keep these Humans under control, I'm going to need to talk to some people, get some backup. There are a few people I have in mind. Assuming you don't think letting this go beyond the two of us is risky?"
"I don't have anything the academy hasn't provided for me except the suns on my shoulders. I come from a family of blacksmiths in the city. We don't have much, just enough to get us by. Other than that I have the robes and books that an adept of light should have. What about you? How much do you have to back?" Alexander continued to walk as he talked to what appeared to be a new friend.
"Ah, well that's rather kind of you to approach a stranger who looks to be in need of companionship. I will admit it's not often I have the pleasure of conversing with my peers often." Nydia replied, then paused when he asked of her plans. She wasn't entirely sure what she would do next herself.
"I guess I'm not too sure myself what to do in light of recent developments. I'd have liked to pay a visit to my father at his estate and inform him of what will be happening in the days to come. He's getting on in years, you see and doesn't get out as often as he'd like. But in this weather, that doesn't seem like a good idea. I'll have to wait until it clears up. Maybe I'll try to research Kerbones a little more, since that knowledge may come in handy soon. Or practice healing in the infirmary. Though I hope that ability will not be needed in the days to come..."
Nydia trailed off at that thought. She truly hoped that the soldiers would not turn out to be as hostile as the masters had implied, but from what she had heard of the outside world she doubted that. Oh... I hope I'm not making it sound like I have better things to do and want to be rid of Seth! It's that sort of careless talking that makes people think I'm stuck up...
"B-but of course, I doubt there's much I could find out about Kerbones, since they're so isolated. And I already practice healing daily, so missing out on today wouldn't be a problem. So, if you're still looking for something to do it would be my pleaseure to accompany you if you want, Seth."
"Well that is a hard question... um well got a couple dozen books I "barrowed". He confessed scratching his back in irritation.
"Got it all stored in a little inn I have took lodging too."
"I owe some alot
of money since I haven't been able to do any odd jobs with my last injury."
"Other than books that is it."
"And who the fuck are you?" Ezekial swore shoving his finger in Durant's face, "I couldent give any less of a damn about our guests, everyone else may be pissed but I know I'm not going to be chosen and this whole..." Ezekial waved around his hands grasping for the word "Ordeal? Scenario? Issue? Whatever is just going to annoy and take away from my oh so important life" Ezekial spit and quickly took a hefty swig from his jug " and don't even bother telling me to not drink cause it's empty" Ezekial scowled turning the jug upside down.
durant is the head hydromancer. Id think your character would know him and not just try and start a fight with him... Just a note.
"He's fine~" she nodded, spinning a little. "I think you might be picked to go Drew. If they ask you to go can you take me too?" she didn't seem to wait for n answer, biting down on he lollipop in her mouth. "Do you think maybe I can learn something from the people that are coming that would help me become an Adept? It's almost my birthday soon, and I want to get promoted as soon as possible."
"I don't think they'll pick me. They probably would only want the best-looking, hardest-working and the best ass-kissers. And we all know I don't meet those qualifications. But don't worry. these little party-crashers will be here and gone before you know it. We'll get you up to Adept soon, I promise." he smiled at her.
Seth found himself grinning widely as Nydia went onward trying to figure out what she would do. It became quickly apparent that she had as much of an idea of what to do as he did. He found himself simply watching for some time, not even realizing that she had stopped speaking and almost jumped when she started again with a stutter.
Whew...OK...Estate? That must mean...she has some royalty or something? Well, too late to simply duck and run now.
"Uh....Heh, well I don't really know what else to do myself. I mean, I would be more than happy to accompany you to your father's estate if that is what you wished to do. The wind is a slight bother, but I can keep the rain off of both of us all day and then some." Seth said with a grin and a nod.
"Besides, I would only end up practicing with my s-...skills in pyromancy, probably fighting a few other students angry about the news. I think doing something you had in mind would probably be a bit healthier for me." Seth said, mentally berating himself.
Gods burn me alive, I almost said I was going to practice with my blade! Stupid stupid stupid.
Marcus stood for a time, looking about. After seeming to think a long time, he finally nodded to Aden. He wasn't sure about the entire idea, but Aden was right, he couldn't be everywhere, and Marcus himself would be entertaining higher guests.
"It is fine, but as long as it doesn't balloon out of control. If our guests so much as thought we wouldn't give a second thought of roasting their people, I get the feeling they would be all too happy to return the favor. Just make sure the people you have in mind don't run their mouths. That would be the last thing we need." Marcus said finally.
"Ah, drunk then from its contents. Very well." Durant effortlessly manipulated the water from the outside to sweep inwards and wash the jug right from Ezekial's hands, to then use another collection of water to slam into the face and over the entire student. Now holding on to the jug, the older Hydromancer spoke.
"While you perhaps might not think too much of the Pyromancer's threats, maybe you will pay more attention to a personal lesson. You are going to be looking your best and being the best for the guests that arrive, and whether you are picked or not doesn't matter. You so much as do something stupid enough that you make Hydromancers and this Academy look foolish, I will freeze and slowly drown you several times in front of our guests to show that we take things seriously. While the gravity of the situation is lost on your hazy mind right now, I get the feeling the loss of your jug will suffice for the moment." Durant said softly, not even raising his voice as he told what he felt he needed to say.
Sorry I haven't posted in a while- I was stuck out of town with no Internet. However, this situation has been remedied, so post incoming!
Also, sorry I suck at doing mean.
Grana arrived in the Caverns of Fire, raising his own body temperature in order to evaporate most of the water that had soaked him through and through. It worked as the rising steam began to take some of his anger with it. Not all of it, but enough that Grana wasnt considering human homicide anymore. Grana sat down, pressing his back against the warm rock as he watched duels between Pyromancers below him. Grana chuckled to himself. "Probably the same kinda bastards as me, angry at the Kerbonian humans intruding upon our lands. Problem is, infighting is just gonna make us putty in their hands. And us Pyro's just can't get it through our red hot tempers that kicking the nearest ass to solve a problem doesn't always work." Grana shook his head in despair. A Pyromancer, about 20 or so, approached Grana quickly. The same fire Pyromancers controlled burned in his eyes as the Mage stalked towards his prey. "Hey, fucker, why are you laughing? We just were sold out by the godsdamn Masters, and you're making fun of the situation? What are you, a human lover?" Grana sighed. "No. I understand their fear. They have the right to be, considering what we can do. That's why we were put on this island in the first place. However, they shouldn't be able to do whatever they want. But killing all of them will make you no better than they are!"
"Are you fucking mocking me? Me, Cathal Murdoch?" The mage roared. Grana sighed as he grabbed Cathal's hand and squeezed, causing Cathal the cry out in pain. "No I'm not, pig. You're doing a fine job of it yourself, so go squeal in pain off in the corner, and stop screwing with me, or you'll regret it, I promise you." Grana said these words softly, not needing to yell to get his point across. Grana realize seemingly aimlessly, but in truth bs was heading towards an unused Arena, so he could claim complete immunity for what was about to happen. Just as Grana was fully inside the arena, Cathal bellowed with rage and rushed towards Grana, flames burning in his hands. Grana shook his head. "Oh gods above, he can't be more than a Mage if he's stupid enough to charge instead of hurling a fireball. His loss." Grana internally shrugged as he turned around and crouched down, bunching up his leg muscles. Grana grinned just as Cathal reached out to burn him, and jumped high in the air. Grana flipped, pulling his center of gravity into his chest, artificially lengthening his air time. Just as Cathal harmlessly tripped past him, Grana hurled a fireball at the back of the unlucky mage. Cathal turned around in time to leap out of the way. Grana spread his stance and bent his knees, now lowering his center of gravity. "I warned you you'd regret all this. Now hurry up- I've fought Hydromancers more aggressive than you are." Grana shook his head as the barb worked perfectly. This time Cathal was a bit more careful, and waited for Grana to attack. Grana complied, leaping forward to generate momentum as he fell forward onto his hands, propelling himself forward as flame gathered at his heel. Grana spun once more, launching a vertical wave of flame at Cathal, who quickly threw up a small shield of flame, obstructing his own view. Grana's momentum carried him past Cathal unseen, smirking as the Mage dropped his shield and spun around, wondering where his opponent had disappeared. As Cathal turned to face Grana, his heart sunk as he saw a ball of flame aimed right at it. Grana let loose, scorching Cathal's jacket. The odor of Burning hide filled the air as the leather turned black and became ash. Grana launched one more fireball next to Cathal's head, indicating the duel was over. "Stay down. Don't push your luck again, or I won't be lenient next time." Grana looked up and saw many students looking down at him. One of the faces was quite familiar though- Felicia, the Master Pyromancer. For once, her famous motormouth had stopped, though Grana realized this blissful silence couldn't and wouldn't last long with her there.
Alexander couldn't help but laugh at the way he phrased his "borrowing" of the books in his possession. He knew he shouldn't be so accepting of thievery but he also had been on the other end of it.
"I think everyone here has taken out books and never returned them. I know I have anyway. I am sorry to hear about your inability to work though, perhaps if you find yourself in the city you could look for my family's smithy. I'm sure if you mention my name my father can find you some work. It won't make you rich, but you should be able to get by. Father could always an extra set set of hands around the shop anyway I'm sure of it."
Felicia had been specifically ordered not to lose her temper on any of the students. If the Pyromancers hadn't been doing such a good job at beating each other up she would have done it herself. Her eyes darted back and forth between all the fights that had broken out, occasionally breaking up a fight that got too noisy. "Hey assfuck! Stay the fuck out of the lava! I hope you have someone to heal those burns, you pussy!" "What the hell kind of ***** ass fireball was that? You can't even beat a Pyro half your rank? You're fucking useless!" "Oh. My. Gods. What are you, a Hydromancer? Man the fuck up and hurl a fireball back!" Her voice was loud and clear, even through the din. She walked around the main arena, then noticed a pair of mages in the corner. Grana and Cathral... She didn't particularly like either of them, but watched the fight. After they stopped, she noticed some of the closer mages looking on curiously. "What in the Flames are you all shits looking at!? Mind your own goddamn fights! *turns back to Grana* "Well? Are you just going to look at me? The fight's not over until this little ***** either gives up or gets burnt to a crisp."
Grana shrugged. "Looking's enough for now. Besides, he's already beaten- it's just hard to see a crushed pride. But perhaps you heard the rush of air as his barn-sized ego deflated." Grana stepped on Cathal's chest and leaned forward, placing weight on his foot to make sure Cathal couldn't get enough oxygen to make fire. "Now. You've lost. I'm gonna walk away, and you're gonna walk back to your buddies, and all this will be behind us. Oh, and if I see you screwing with another student here, I won't go so easy next time." Grana pushed off and turned around, showing his back to Cathal as he began to wander towards the library, planning to research all he could about Kerbones. Cathal stood up behind Grana, rage pulsing through his veins as he summoned the biggest fire he could.
Grana felt the heat and sighed. "I give you a chance to leave in one piece, and you kick it to the ground." He turned around and widened his stance once more, this time firmly planting his feet on the ground. Grana's right hand stayed out in front of his body, fingers spread as if to grab at the air. Grana smiled as Cathral launched his sphere of flame. "time to see if all those fights with Hydromancers were worth it." Grana thought. As the large fireball approached Grana, he raised his left hand, creating a thick but small wall of flame. As the fireball impacted harmlessly on the shield, Grana's flames enveloped Cathal's fireball. Grana brought his front hand down, forcing the combined fire across his body into his dominant left hand. Grana added as much of his own fire as he could to the behemoth of flame before twisting his body and thrusting his hand forward, sending the flame rocketing towards Cathal, who stood there, dumbstruck. The flames enveloped him as fellow Pyromancers quickly jumped into the Arena to put out the blazing Cathal. Grana looked at his right hand, the bandages burned from the incomplete technique. He ripped off the charred wrappings, which turned into ashes as he threw them away. He was grateful to see his actual palm was mostly undamaged. Grana stared at Cathal, who was yelling in pain. "I warned you. Enjoy the aftereffects of Usurpation of Flame." Grana looked up once more at Felicia and yelled up to her. "Is that crispy enough for you, or do you like meat a little more well done?"
The offer was unexpected but welcomed.
"Could you really?"
" Earthshifters and blacksmithing go hand in hand it would be perfect!"
"Thanks so much!"
"If you need to barrow a good read I am sure I got something of interest just ask."
"You can find the inn near the water fountain off the harbor."
"Just ask for Ed, sure he has a lot to say about me.. mostly complaints." He laughed
"I'll keep that in mind, but what kind of Lightdweller would I be if I didn't offer to help those in need. It is kind of our whole purpose, healing and helping and all that. But it sounds like you'll do well at the smithy, I thought maybe you would help quench or take orders but you could end up helping with filling out the orders themselves. When I get my father's letter I'll be sure to mention you. If you don't end up going on this little excursion you could end up with a job waiting for you whenever you need it." Alexander continued after laughing at Edward's joke.
Ezekial stood there for a moment stunned and soaked. The water slowly dripping from his now soaked hair and clothes. "You bastard give me my jug back" He yelled a true rage in his voice "I'm done with all this bullshit, give me my jug back!" Ezekial glared Durante down fully aware of the massive gap in their abilities, Ezekial concentrated for a moment his face turning red as a small vein gutted out of his forehead as he drew some of the water from his clothes, it form a small ball of water before Ezekial lost all control and it collapsed.
Cale trained relentlessly for the day that the ambassadors arrived. All this talk about whether or not the ambassadors would choose who will get to go to the city of Kerbones did not concern him because deep down Cale knew that at the very least they would notice him. Cale jogged up and down the caverns both up high and down low but always staying on the path that was lit by either the plants or the torches. After that Cale went to the training rooms and practiced his techniques of moving and lifting the earth around him. The fact that someone would notice and see Cale drove him to the point of pushing himself at every step, every move, every technique down to moving simple pebbles. It motivated him more than nothing else before because it gave him a sense of purpose and accomplishment if they looked to him to notice what a magnificent figure of an Earthshaper Cale is. Cale flourished in these situations because it was burned into his mind; to work efficiently and to be known for it. In the farms he worked in, the owners made it a show that they favored the more hard working slaves by giving them an extra minute of brake or even an extra pint of water. Cale wanted to be noticed for his work, Cale needed to. As Cale lifted boulders with muscles nearly failing and a tired haze in his vision Cale knew that there was absolutely nothing that was to stop him from being seen. He swore to it underneath his breath..
Durant sighed as he watched the young and under-studied Hydromancer attempt to use his rage in some good method, only to fail miserably. He shook his head, still holding the jug in his hand, he wove it around.
"Here, let me try to make you do something useful with yourself for a change. I am going to put this prized jug of yours in a ball of ice. I am going to freeze it right here, and you can get it back as soon as you learn how to properly control your elemental abilities. Till you can prove it, your jug is going to sit here frozen in this icy little prison. Good luck." Durant said simply, and then proceeded to do what he said. Ice spun about the jug and just as quickly, it was sitting higher above the ground.
Satisfied with his work, Durant began walking back into the storm which continued to blow about. He seemed somewhat saddened that a hydromancer was unable to even properly dry themselves, but with no drive, it wasn't his choice.
Bastards's got spunk, I'll give him that. Maybe he's even good enough to catch himself some deal with the assfucks coming in. Although she wasn't exactly looking forward to the visit, she could see the benefits, and wasn't above tossing some students out to get a few benefits of her own. "Next time, try to fuck up someone with more skill than you, not some little ***** like Cathral. And refine that blast. Flames, you were this close to me having to sweep you both up in fucking dustpans." She walked up to Cathral and kicked him a little, muttering something about him being a sobbing pussy. She picked him up and went to take him to the closest infirmary. I don't need shit from Marcus about some retarded Pyromancer killing himself...
[hr]
Fei grinned happily and hugged her brother. "I'm going to go practice then, okay? I'll see you later!" She skipped off through the rain, partial to training in the Waterfall Fortress that day.
The first thing she did was jump in the lake with a splash, letting herself sink a good way into it. She concentrated and took a deep breath. Cold filled her lungs as she blew out the bubbles of air. One thing she wasn't really good at was breathing in the water for long, because she kept thinking of drowning. Nothing turned your element against you like fear. She tried to relax and just breath, but it only took a few minutes for her to resurface, sputtering for air. If those people want me to go with them, then that will mean I'm really good! I wonder what they want to do with some mages...
Shaking her head, Fei dove again, this time just swimming for a while before trying to breath in the water again. She could do this for hours...
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