Academia Crystalis

[Hellis]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Academia Crystalis: Chapter 1[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Awakenings[/BCOLOR]​

[BCOLOR=transparent]Academia Crystalis, Valley of Immortals.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]The city stretched towards the sky amidst the sea of crystalline statues. Its walls wrapping around and upwards in a way that gave you vertigo trying to stare up them. This was the city of magic, the capital of the new world order. Here the world sent their brightest and most talented. Their great and their hopefuls. A place to build a new generation, a new world from the ashes of the old one. Obeli, Ethians and Varsi mingling with Alari, Balamestrian and Norh. Where great lecture halls were filled with young minds learning everything from the essential sciences of nature and magic, to men and women fighting it out on the sparring grounds. Instructors walking around, instructing them in how to better utilize their gifts. [/BCOLOR]
​

[BCOLOR=transparent]The academy itself was the centerpiece, rising higher than all the surrounding buildings. A giant bastion of sanity in a world gone mad due to magic fallout. Its walls shimmered with huge pieces of Immortalis, fastened into the mortar and charged with magic. Any attack on the city would find it near impossible to penetrate or even make a dent in. The academy itself was a massive 30.000 odd square meters of towers, massive buildings and multiple courtyards. A massive artificial lake that took up about a third of those thirty thousand, surrounded by tall birches and healthy spruce trees. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]The inner walls were of smooth stone, white marble decorating the hallways and the banners of every conceivable noble family, house, clan or township hung to either side. A reminder they they were all united here. The main building was built into the southern wall and curved in a weak crescent. It was 5 stories high, and a good 2000 square meter all together. The three lower floors contained the Dormitories for students as well as places to eat. The building had its own fully staffed kitchen and three interlinked mess halls. The campus so to speak consisted of the park with several duel areas and the lake, and seven separate buildings that housed the various labs, teachers quarters and lecturing areas.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Outside the Academia Proper, bustling streets of a city born overnight could be seen. Housing an odd 80.000 people, it was all things considered a mayor township. Workers had worked on the city for nearly two decades, and by doing so they needed soldiers to guard them. That attracted merchants and camp followers, leading to shops and brothels. From there it spiraled, as the Academia was finished, the city began to take shape around it. Another wall was soon erected, protecting the nobles and foreign dignitaries. This became known as the High City, then another wall rose to protect the commoners. Three massive walls circled the students in the end. The city providing extra protection by merely existing around them. And outside the walls, the fields of crystallized bodies stretched for kilometers to either side. A grim reminder to why the city stood where it stood.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]-Unknown Individuals, Machias Ridge, overlooking the Valley of immortals.-[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"I hate it." The silver haired boy said from his place on top of a winged beast, its batlike wings were torn, its single giant eyed was dull. He eyed the great fortress of a city as he whittled down a piece of wood into a pointed stake. The boy was clad in a white coat, as if he had plundered it from a very fashion aware pirate. "Smug assholes built a city to commemorate their greatest failure." The boy said as he drove the stake into the eye of whatever it was he was sitting on. It let out a whimpering screech then stopped flailing. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"So do the rest of us." A woman's voice sang out behind him as a varsi woman with vibrant red hair strode up next to him. Her body was clad in alternating red and black fabrics with blackened steel covering all her vitals. A practical kind of armor, not leaving much for flair. Her arms were soaked in blood up to the elbows, and she held a spear with a Immortalis tip in a easy, almost lazy grip. "Give it time, you'll get over such petty emotions." [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent] [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]"Is it done?" The boy replied, not addressing her quip regarding his emotions.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"The Ahriman and its Partner is dead, yes." The woman said, her tone haughty and arrogant. "Old man fought well for a cripple. But he didn't exactly provide a challenge in the end." [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Of course not. He was a fool and a cripple, who relied to much on his Summon. War hero my ass.." The young man said as he hopped of the now dead Ahriman and flicked his wrist, producing a thin knife and chain from the arm of his coat. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Bastha. " He said as silvery whisps of light leaked out the knife and formed a creature of fire and coal, that was nearly 8 feet tall. Embers glowed across skin that flaked of it as if the fire was burning the creature up from the inside.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Yes Master Elithan." [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Could you purge this place before we leave. No traces. Incinerate it down to where even the dust is burning." [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"My pleasure." The gargantuan fire creature said with a smile that made parts of its charred skin crack and fall of his face. Opening wider, it seemingly drew in breath before exhaling a torrent of white hot flames.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]- Weis Private Room, Seven o' Clock -[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent] Wei though he saw a flash of white in distance, far off by the mountains. IT was there, and then it was gone. He narrowed his eyes before dismssing it as nothing of importance. He was currently on sitting on his bed, his cane resting against the desk next to his bed. In his hands he had the latest in the Crystal War Novel Series. He returned to reading about the heroes and combatants of the war, while popping grapes into his mouth every so often.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"You really do like those books" The voice of Shadras starled him. He looked up and quickly hid the book even though he realized it was useless. Shadras knew more about him then any other creature, human or not. The death spectre hung suspened at the foot of his his bed. Its hollow eyes stared at him.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"What do you want Shadras."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Death. DECAY. DOOM AND DESTRUCTION. Petty vandalism if that is to much to accomplish on your busy schedule." Shadras spoke, seeming rather disheartened at the realization that we would not go around ending the world today. Wei for his part raised a single eyebrow as he got up out of his bed and slung his coat on. As he did, he looked at his familiar before baring the blade of his cane sword, expecting Shadras to get the hint. He didn't want him hanging over his shoulder all day.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Yes yes. Aside from your curse?" He asked as Shadras tilted his head to stare at the blade. He would not refuse his wielder, but he wanted to to say something to put the brat in motion. Lest he was to late again.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"...For my wielder to make it to sparring on time?" Shadras said before quickly merging with Wei. His voice echoed inside the boys head. "You really got to get yourself a new one of those clock things."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Right. " Wei tucked his cane under his arm trying and failing to fix his dress shirt as he did. He didn't run, that was beneath him. But he was walking at a pace that would make joggers envious. The sound of his cane hitting the tile floor echoing as he did. Walking across the courtyard he made it to the Pit with about five minutes to spare, noting some people were already there.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Ren, Ten Past 7, Lokni and Rens "room".[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Ren didn't have a bed. Well he used to have one, but he had it removed from the room pretty early on. He found that he slept much better curled up against his massive wolf of a familiar. Yoji for his part was happy to be the pillow and bed for the short, long haired would be samurai. In fact, he didn't even have a room. Well he did, he used it as tea room. For tea ceremonies. They were very important to him. When he awoke that morning, he did so because Yoji, his great storm wolf suddenly awoke and stood up, staring off towards mountains. Ren, suddenly without a pillow, hit his head on the rock. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"OW-O! Yoji?!" He looked up as he cradled tthe back of his skull, seeing nothing. "What is it boy?" Yoji made a full body shrug and licked his face. Ren got up and pushed the overgrown pup off him. Looking at the sun he quickly deduced he had overslept. It didn't bother him much. They were outdoors, the sparring ground was only a short sprint away if he rode on Yojis back. He jumped up onto the beast and pointed in the general direction of their destination. "Let's Go!" [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]And off they went. Running across the field of the courtyard park and across the surface of the lake as Yoji was a storm wolf, and could run on air. They were at their destination in no time, ren jumping off mid run and Yoji turning into wisps of stormy clouds before he vaninsted into the giant Odachi on Rens back. The blade was longer then the boy was. He landed with some modicum of graze. "Tadah!"[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]There were no applauds. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent] ---[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]TL:DR[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]It is the first Morning of the Second Semester of the Third year. It is evaluation day, meaning all of you are meant to gather at the Courtyard, specifically at the "Pit". The Pit is a amphi theater dug down into the bedrock below the campus grounds. The pit itself, the arena that is incased with special immortalis fence of sorts that project a bubble over the fighting arena whenever magic is used inside. Standing in the middle of the pit is Harald Wittel.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent] His arms crossed over his chest, the old man stare at you. Seven swords are stuck into the ground before him, he has clearly been awaiting your arrival.[/BCOLOR]

 

[Niiwa]

Miso's breath was heavy as she arrived back at her room. The early morning jog had been particularly intense, but the Ethian had so much energy to get out that she couldn't help but push herself a little harder today. It was evaluation day. She wasn't sure exactly what that meant this year, but what she did know was that she was going to get into a fight, and it was going to be fantastic. She opened the door wildly, still brimming with excitement, and it slammed against the wall. It wasn't enough to do more than scratch the paint, but the sound made it seem like the door would crack in half.

Miso's face fell as she saw that her two roommates were still asleep on their bunks, and rolled her eyes with a sigh. "Wake up, sleepyheads." She strolled over to her things, all stored away in a large wooden chest, fishing for her fighting gear. The girl had only been wearing minimal clothing out on her jog, but she wanted to look presentable for the morning's event. "You guys gonna stay in bed all day or what?"

A low hissing crept in through the door, and Miso glanced around as she changed. The horrifying mandibles of her familiar clicked at her, unable to fit through the door frame. "Gotta be patient, big guy." She grinned. "Although maybe you could come in here and help me get Xin and Aleesa out of their damn beds!" Dhol let out another hiss, and clicked his jaws menacingly. Miso chuckled in response. The worm wouldn't hurt any of her friends, but he sure knew how to be intimidating.

As she started donning her weapons, Miso could hear groaning from Xin behind her. She knew it was Xin. Aleesa could sleep through a damned earthquake. "Rise and shine, small ears," she said in reply to Xin. As she nibbled on a piece of stale bread she had tucked away underneath her pillow, she smiled and took a moment to breathe. The other girls had proven to be good friends these past few months, and she was glad to be rooming with them. Aleesa seemed to match her zest for improving her fighting skills, and Xin's heritage had been a surprise, but had only made Miso more intrigued about the girl.

She finished her bread slowly, but even as she did so it was still a while before the others were ready - they had committed to going together, so Miso was ready to wait, but that didn't stop her from causing a fuss at every yawn and stalling moment. She was so ready to get going, she just couldn't stand it. By the time the other two were ready she was almost out the door, and she kept the pace fast as they walked to the pit. Upon their arrival she grinned at the sight of the seven swords stuck into the ground, and Harald Wittel standing before them. It seemed as though a few others had arrived before them, and she recognized most of them - it was likely that they had all fought at some point, or at least she had tried to spar with them. She leaned up against Dhol's massive form, grinning, trying to look calm and collected while butterflies flew around her stomach.

 

[Dionysian Lumberjack]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Dormitories - Kiza,[/BCOLOR] [BCOLOR=transparent]Fridtjof & Hjálmarr [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent],[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent] Ghrem, 6:10 am[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Fridtjof Kierkegaard missed dreaming. Well, not really since dreams meant watching his familiar's "memories" of the victims of Warrior's Helm. In truth he missed the dreams he had before the academy, before the binding, before the cave in; he missed the dreams he had about fleeing his tribe and becoming a hero, like his ancestor, Iron Oak Ingridson. He had dreamed of joining a raiding party, a practice long since banned by the Alexians, where he could prove his mettle and die with honor.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]He missed those days.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]The dark maw of dreamlessness that he hung in now was familiar, especially after the… incident the previous year. Hjálmarr had lessened the flow between the Revenant and himself, for which Fridtjof would grateful for if he hadn't threatened to leave the spirit trapped in Warrior's Helm with no way to leave the canyon. The Revenant was still unapologetic for his part in nearly killing another student, and…[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"BOY ARE YOU STILL NATTERING ABOUT THAT? UNGRATEFUL WHELP. YOU STILL REFUSE TO REALIZE THE PURPOSE BEHIND OUR ACTIONS." [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]His lovely familiar "yelled" in his mind. Sometimes Fridtjof wished that the headmaster would just let the spirit wander around during the night, instead of forcing him to draw the spirit in to sleep. Besides, what did that pompous, brownno- Fridtjof clamped down at the train of thought hard, extinguishing the flame of rage even as Hjálmarr chuckled his dark wheezing laugh in the back of his hand.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Frost take you Hjálmarr, I'm getting up."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Fridtjof groaned as he blinked blearily while shifting his heavy woolen blanket to the side. Scooting to the end of his bed, he felt a scent tickling his nose which he dismissed as he let out a deep yawn and began climbing down the bunk. As his bare left foot hit the ground Fridtjof realized his mistake.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Shadows swallow you, Kiza you idi-"[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent] Was all the young man got out before the tin of muffins slipped from out under his feet and he fell on the wooden floor with a loud smack.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Frost take it all. Ffffuuuucccckkkk."[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent] Fridtjof grit out loudly from the floor.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]**[/BCOLOR]​

[BCOLOR=transparent]Ghrem awoke with a start. He yawned widely before rubbing his face. Slowly he opened his eyes. His nose already told him that Kiza had been up, once again, making muffins. Their room was a sea of tins, and it might have been suffocating had it not been one of the few things that Ghrem enjoyed about this room. His short, brown hair was a bit of everywhere, and his gray eyes were still foggy with sleep. He usually slept without dreams.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent] Before he bonded with Bulwark, he used to have wild flights of fancy. Now he slept as if he'd been buried under the ground. Ghrem gave a passing look to his massive shield, leaning against the wall next to his armor and spear. The green gems on it winked. That probably was an optical illusion. Bulwark was still asleep--Ghrem could feel it. Once upon a time, before he bonded with massive earth elemental, he used to be more of a morning person. He was slowly feeling that control slip from his fingers.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]There was a pan of muffins near the headrest of his bed. Kiza probably left it there on purpose, but Ghrem still sneakily grabbed the edge of it and slid it into bed with him, covering himself up as he devoured the entire pan. He wondered if the bottomless pit feeling he had was from Bulwark or the fact he had no self-control when it came to muffins… or food in general.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]He was quietly trying to slip the pan underneath his bed when he heard Fridtjof awaken and take to the ladder above his bunk. Ghrem sat up, fully. He slept in his underclothes, not really the sort to be in his skivvies when around others. He tugged his shirt down and dusted the crumbs that had landed on his belly. He worked so hard, and yet it still existed. Of course, he probably had the daily pan of muffins to blame.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]He was pulled from this thoughts as Fridtjof was fully erect for one moment and then on the ground the next. Frid cursed, loudly. Ghrem glanced over at his other roommate. The other was adorned in an adorable apron that Ghrem never stated was adorable because he was a stalwart individual that tried to fight his urge to love cute things.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Ghrem moved to the edge of his bed and planted his feet, extending his arm out.[/BCOLOR] [BCOLOR=transparent]"You need some help up?"[/BCOLOR] [BCOLOR=transparent]He asked, smiling, and trying not to laugh.[/BCOLOR] [BCOLOR=transparent]"Real graceful, there. You make me look like an acrobat."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]**[/BCOLOR]​

[BCOLOR=transparent]Why did the term cooking fairy make him laugh a little to himself? Probably because he had been fretting about the kitchen like he was culinary angel. Oh, that sounded strange didn't it. Still he skated about the kitchen, cleaning up his mess, and looking at the next tin of muffins cooking in the oven. Right before he was about to sleep, a sudden nostalgic feeling had washed over him.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]And he had thought to himself that night, he should do something really nice for everyone. So he had cracked open his recipe books, which he had written himself, and began to make muffins. Well night time had washed over till the sun began to kiss the hill's horizon. Yet, he still poured hours into cleaning and cooking. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Bending down and looking into the oven, at muffins rising "Good morning." he told the muffins in the oven quietly. At current Frid and Ghrem were still sleeping. He did not want to wake them. While Kiza had a brilliant plan to move stealthily across the dormitories and leave a bag of fresh made muffins at everyone's doors. So when they opened it, they would see their morning breakfast.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Then he decided it was a stupid idea because what if they accidentally stepped on the muffins. The next plan was of course to shove it in their mail slits. But the muffins were not flat shaped, so they would probably not fit in there either. So he decided he would instead take them all to class with him. It was a brilliant plan. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]One that made him smile with an exuberant amount of love. Till he heard the crash and he quickly turned around, a whip of his white hair following behind him. Tied up currently with a ribbon. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Oh Frid," Kiza began, "I am so sorry. That was my fault. I had not calculated the walking distance between the tin and one's individual steps." [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"It's fine Kiza, not really how I wanted to start my morning though," [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]Fridtjof groaned back to his white-haired friend as he sat up, before turning his attention to his bunkmate, [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]"It is fine Ghrem, I can get up myself" [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Water, you need water" Kiza said getting up and turning to get Frid some water.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Ghrem places his hand on his hips. [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]"Alright. As long as you're fine,"[/BCOLOR] [BCOLOR=transparent]he said, slowly pulling himself upwards and stretching. Excess crumbs falling off his body.[/BCOLOR] [BCOLOR=transparent]"We should probably get to breakfast."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"It looks like you already had yours Ghrem." [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]Fridtjof said dryly as he watched the crumbs fall off the older man's woolen shirt.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Kiza bounced into the kitchen grabbing a glass of water and ran back over to Frid handing it to him. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"There` we go, all better," Kiza said, "I need help delivering all these muffins to all the dormitories first. Pleeease." [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Yes, yes Kiza. Let me get change first." [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]Fridtjof rose up to his full 6 feet 2 inches, swathed in nothing but his loose cotton pants. The soft material [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]clung loosely to the Norh's muscular hips, tracing the outline of his legs and waist. The room's light played over the dips and valleys of Fridtjof's tight stomach as he strode over to the drawer, quivering as he stretched with a contented sigh. Pulling out a black cotton shirt, he put it over his head followed by a tough, black leather jerkin. Then, he swapped his cloth sleeping pants for a pair of tough, black trousers that he tucked into his boots. He finished by strapping on a pair of greaves and belt with armor plates that protected his lower torso and the front and back of his waist, all of which shined a dull silver. Finally, he but on the waist holsters that held his weapons Jorobifask and Steinnbrjota, a shovel and pickaxe respectively, on the sides of his waist.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Ghrem sighed and slowly stood. [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]"Muffins are far from my breakfast. They lack the protein I need for a day to day routine. Also, I might be in love with food."[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent] Ghrem laughed, but it was only half-heartedly. He pulled on his clothing and armor. It kept his upper and body protected. Along with his magical shield and spear. He slipped into it while avoiding the muffin tins.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Ghrem will you be helping too?" Kiza asked, while taking out his ponytail. Allowing his hair to naturally fall to its side. He meandered through the room, like one of those ballerinas in a musical box. His slender fingers touching the handle of the silver, ornate hairbrush he was given a long time ago. Like his hair was made from gold, but as soft as clouds, he began to comb through it in hopes to untangle any knots that may have gathered while he had it up. Strands of silver gleaming in the fluorescent lights of their dormitory. "There we go." Kiza's smile seemed to always catch the light, making him shimmering and reflective like light bouncing off a body of water.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]The three young men began stacking the mountains of tins and putting them in bags. Sighing, Fridtjof brought out the folded cart that he had bought the previous year is response to Kiza's persistent altruism. Unfolding the metal cart, all three people quickly loaded the muffins and made their way out of their dorm.[/BCOLOR]

 

[Vinn]

"Hush, child." She purred, her mother's voice softer than she remembered it to be. Hand stroking her hair, Xin snuggled up to her as she lulled her to sleep. "Morning will come."
Xin's lips tugged into a warm smile, before something in the distance startled her from slumber. It snapped her eyes open, scraping her away from a blessed dreamscape. Staring wide eyed at the ceiling, her large pupils focused into slits. Xin blinked, disorientated. Then she blinked once more, her eyelids heavy under a sleepy spell. Morning light flooded through the window curtains, telling her she had slept in for her morning routine. Dismissing the call of day, Xin tugged her covers close, burying herself deeper into the bed. She wanted to return to that dream, a fragment of forgotten memory. It was one where her silver tongued mother had spoken softly to her; one without callous or that distant guard. It was a sweet memory that proved her mother did unconditionally love her child. The thought alone kept Xin content, as she sleepily smiled.

As sleep began to slowly wash over, the door cracked open, slamming against the wall. Xin could almost see the paint splintering, and grimaced into her sheets. She'd have to plaster and paint over it- again. As much as she loved Miso and Aleesa, they weren't as tentative with the condition of their home. Coming from a wealthy heritage, Xin was never dealt with the task of cleaning. But she liked things cozy and neat, and now she was the only one that could keep it that way. It was fine though, since her roommates were both exceptional. As Miso strolled into their room, Xin could hear the energy of her daily jog ooze from her voice. On most days where she followed her morning routine, Xin didn't need a wake up call. However with a sleep so good, she just wanted to sink into her bed and stay. Groaning in tired annoyance, Xin propped herself on her elbows and stretched out her heavy limbs as a feline would. "Morning." She muttered, her voice still doused with sleep.

Unclasping a golden cuff from her wrist, she fastened it to her long, braided hair. Despite Miso's growing impatience, Xin continued her slow morning stretch. As she finished, she sauntered out of bed towards Aleesa. Leaning over her, she whispered, "You need to wake up, now. Miso's glaring daggers." Gently, she grabbed her friend by the shoulders and started to shake her.
Aleesa's hair was plastered to her face; a face she buried into her pillow and mumbled, "I was having a good dream... gimme five more minutes..."
For once, Xin could sympathize with her heavy sleeping friend. Breathing a small sigh, Xin pushed Aleesa's hair from her face and smiled, "No more than three, okay."

By the time she left their dorm, Xin felt sharp, the morning air crisp against her skin. The softness in her expression had left her, leaving an intensity ready for this evaluation. Determination settled into her eyes, her prowling pace matching Miso's. As the three arrived, Xin's eyes gazed over at the familiar faces and seven swords, before resting on Harald Wittel with hardened composure.

 

[Kazama]

The evil Lord of Darkness laughed as his influence spread over the land. Shadows engulfed everything as far as the eye could see, leaving the land black and grey. If Aleesa wanted to win this, she was gonna have to end it, and now! The Lord of Darkness taunted,
"Ha, ha ha... Foolish mortal... there's totally no way you can kill me! My power is infinite!"
"Oh yeah? Well my power is infinite plus one!"
"Errr, that doesn't make sense."

Aleesa roared and jumped, soaring through the air as white hot flames coalesced around her body! The Lord of Darkness lunged, swinging a dark, wretched blade seething with malice. The blade hit her, but her fire burned too brightly! The blade shattered and its darkness was dispelled by the fiery light of her fighting spirit! Her burning fist hit the Lord of Darkness square in the face and the force of the impact tore his shadowy body apart!

His head screamed, "NOOOOOoooOOooOo, aaaarrgh uuuuugh, I'm dyiiiing... uuuaaaaaghh.... Curse you Aleesaaaa... You're... too... awesome... uaagh... so cold... so cold... bluegh." And with that, he was dead.

Color came back to the world as his influence died with him and its residents ran out of their homes, cheering. They picked Aleesa up and carried her, throwing streamers and confetti into the air as they paraded her to a castle atop a hill. They took her to a king who bowed and pointed to a feast, the first of her many rewards. With fanfare and trumpets, he began a speech where he'd describe her heroic feat,

"Aleesa the Great... you need to wake up now."
"Hahaha, yeah I know, I- Wait, what?"
"Miso's glaring daggers."

Aleesa was unceremoniously dragged back to the waking world. She groaned and rolled over. So close... yet so far. Her hair was plastered to her face; a face she buried into her pillow and mumbled, "I was having a good dream... gimme five more minutes..."
No feast. No awesome battle where she totally saved the world. Just this pillow that smelled like her shampoo. And the evaluation. The evaluation! Aleesa jumped up, suddenly remembering that was today. She shot up quickly and ended up hitting her head on the bed frame of the bunk above her. She stiffened in pain and recoiled, clutching her head.

"Ow... What time is it?" She rubbed the spot on her head where the first blow of the day had just been delivered. Was she late? A quick look at her roommates, Miso and Xin, showed her they were getting ready too. So no, it wasn't late. She'd hit her head for nothing. Aleesa sighed and swung her legs off the bed. Time to start the day.

Her bed clothes were meager. A pair of wool shorts and an old top that she'd long since outgrown and was only long enough to reach just above her flat belly. She brushed her bedhead out of her face and rubbed sleep from her eyes before she flumped out of bed.

"Morning guys..." she didn't sound too thrilled. Nobody would after being torn from a dream like that. She got ready rather quickly, tying her hair back into a ponytail and dressing herself in her usual simple and plain clothing. She moved like a zombie, still half asleep and absentmindedly going through the motions of preparation. Once she was presentable, she opened the double doors that led to the balcony attached to their dorm. Outside, there was a table with a few knickknacks on it, some bags lying around, and a hammock strung up. On this hammock was a sleeping man-monkey. Bandalli had set himself up out in the fresh air, where he could lie around all day snacking and sleeping. Bandalli snored and muttered,

"Nngh... of course I'd like another... yeah... nnnm... oh you're all so pre- whuh?" Bandalli woke up when Aleesa shook the hammock and groaned, shielding his eyes from the sunlight, "Really kid? You're gonna interrupt an ape's sleep? You know, people have been pushed off of rooftops for less..." he said grumpily.

"Come on Bandalli. Up and at 'em. We've got the evaluation today."
"Evaluation? Mmm, that sounds pretty tough. I think I'll pass."
"You don't get to pass. Come on Bandalli, I just woke up too, I'm too sleepy for this. Would you just get up?"
"Let me think about it... No. No I think I'll stay here. Good luck with the evaluation, kiddo." He said, waving her away.

Less than thirty seconds later, Aleesa was dragging him inside by the tail. She grunted and pulled while he held onto the balcony railing and kicked her. This went on for about a minute longer before Bandalli finally gave in with, "FINE!" and jumped into Aleesa.

"You owe me a lazy morning!" Bandalli griped in her head.
"All your mornings are lazy!"
"Then you owe me an extra lazy one!"

There was no arguing with a monkey. She asked her roommates, "Alright guys! Ready to go?" That tussle had woken her up and her energy was returning to her. She was nervous about the evaluation, but hopeful at the same time. Just so long as there wasn't a written portion. There better not be a written portion...

At The Pit, she looked around and saw they weren't the first ones here. There were a few other students. And Wittel was there... and there were swords stuck into the ground for some reason. She turned to her roommates, who she'd come here with, "You guys ready for this? I wonder what we're gonna do! I hope we don't have to wait too long!"

 

[Tempest]

And there was ice.

As far as Brooklyn could possibly see in every direction, there was ice. Snow pelted down in heavy ripping flurries, cutting through her. She reaches up towards her shawl but finds nothing. She closes her eyes and falls to her knees. She was going to freeze. This was it. This was...

Warm.

Light dances behind her eyelids in bright, luminous colours. She could feel the prickling of sunlight on her skin and the howling winter wind that had been in her hears had died. Now, a gentle breeze caressed her skin and brought to her nose the scent of springtime. She blinks slowly, opening her eyes and a forest of giant flowers wafted above her head. She takes it in slowly, even as bubbles begin to drift lazily from a mysterious source and an opalescent butterfly bobs past in the air. Brooklyn sighs out contently and rests back into the grass that had somehow come to be beneath her.

* * *​

She woke early in the morning, a gentle smile on her face and feeling a small warm weight nestled on her chest. "Laney," she coos, "Laaaaney, time to wake up." It was barely the crack of dawn. That was their routine, though. Early to bed, early to rise. It was a habit she had from home and never broke, nodding off with the fall of the sun. The Vulcanus stirs briefly in her spot upon Brooklyn's bosom and makes to stretch, only serving to nestle in against her neck and hiding in a curtain of hair.

She gives a soft snort of amusement and runs a hand to scoop the sprite up. Laney only serves to wrap tail and arms about her middle finger, cuddling against it with a tiny yawn before turning her head, cheek pressing in such a manner that she begins to trickle drool. Brooklyn rolls her eyes as she cradles her, and moves her other hand to tickle the sprite. "Laney, don't you want to help me cook?"

This time, the sprite begins to stir awake, stifling giggles and batting away the tickling finger with her whole self. "Yes, yes! Stoooop~" As Brooklyn stop, Laney was still giggling and pulls herself up to stand on her hand. "Something sweet, right?"

"We'll see. Let's get started," she sighs and moves across the small dorm room. It was small. Compact, as it was really only meant for one student. Not that she minded. It was private and cozy. She settles by the small camping stovetop and looks at Laney. "Alright, matchstick." She nods as she turns on the gas and nods for Laney to do her thing.

The sprite flicks her tail forward like a whip and strikes at the invisible gas and it flares up into a flaming ring. Brooklyn nods approvingly and grabs up her only pan and spatula from the washbasin and sets it on top to warm. She nudges open her ice chest with her foot and peers at its contents, frowning at it warily before grabbing some sausage and eggs... and a pair of leftover biscuits with butter between them that she throws all into the pan. Laney looks at the biscuits and her eyes flicker with excitable flames, growing into wide saucers as she licks her lips, knowing what was to come at this point.

After it was all warmed and cooked, Brooklyn looks at Laney who stayed perched at the edge of the counter, waiting expectantly. "What? You're expecting something?" Laney nods quickly. "What exactly?" Laney pauses before quickly pointing to a high up shelf, far from her reach. Brooklyn looks at her with a cool gaze before a smirk finally flickers over her lips, "Ah yeah. How could I forget." She reaches up and grabs the jar of honey and carries it to the desk with her and Laney.

She settles down with the plate and picks up a book, skimming over its contents to study as she picks at the meal. Ever since Laney came into her life, she had been coming to eat overcooked food with increasing frequency. Probably because the Vulcanus' fire was a bit tricky to work with, or at least in part. Partially because Laney also held the steadfast belief that nothing was cooked until it was a little blackened. So today, she was left with rubber eggs, mildly blackened sausage and more than a little browned biscuits. The honey always made the biscuits better. Though, she worried she was getting a taste for the scorched food. She was getting adjusted to it, at least. It did not taste right to eat properly cooked things anymore. It made it hard to eat at the cafeteria.

As she drizzles honey over the biscuits, Laney begins to tear pieces off and shove them into her mouth. Brooklyn begins to read a passage of her text about the effects of immortalis and beast taming and the shared bond. She lifts her gaze temporarily to Laney before snorting at the ridiculousness of the notion that the sprite would have an impact on her and flips the page. It was just theory, afterall.

* * *​

Laney dangles from a rope of Brooklyn's braided hair as she surveys the other students about The Pit and the instructor. She sidles down next to her ear and starts to whisper quietly, "What are we doing today, again?"

"The evaluation," the Norh woman says simply, keeping her eyes fixed on Wittell and the seven immortalis stuck into the ground.

"But... What's that mean?" Laney asks curiously, tail flickering nervously back and forth.

"It's a test."

"About?"

"Stuff."

"What kind of stuff?"

"I don't know, Laney, probably the kind they've been having us learn," she says with a hint of irritation in her tone.

There was a pause of silence from the Vulcanus before, "Oh." She swings back and forth for a moment, "I hope you do well."

Brooklyn sighs and places her hand on the head of her axe. "We'll do just fine," she said as much for the sprite as herself.

 

[CasketCase]

Even after all of two years, she couldn't get used to the silence. So accustomed to the stirrings of countless children waking her from slumber, Ruiha found herself waking up in bouts of half-sleep concern that something was amiss, only to be greeted by nothing. She suspected that her dormmate's early morning departures also played into it as she often awoke to find the door closing shut. Turning to one side, she looked out to the moonlit sky outside her window and allowed her thoughts to wander until her body demanded she rise, for her stomach was empty and her bladder full. Flipping her blankets off from atop of her, she groggily swung her legs out over the bedside, her feet brushing over the cold floor. Her gaze turned to her room, taking the minute details that depicted the unseen line that divided the ownership between her and her roommate. Now that she thought of it, she didn't know much about the other one. They had exchanged pleasantries a few times before, but it seemed that they operated on too wide of a time shift to really interact. Then again, it might have been for the best.

§—+—=—+—=—+—=—§
​

The rosy fingers of dawn were reaching from the horizon by the time she started to get ready for the evaluation. Energy from her breakfast and morning run kept her cheerful as she dried her hair from bathing, the early chill of the air tightening her skin into goosebumps. It still felt strange having so much time on her hands, unaware of just how much she would miss all of those brats taking up her morning schedule, but she knew better than to linger on the past too much. Not that she would need to divert her thoughts, as a shiver slithered down her spine and a soft hiss in her head told her that he had stirred.
​

"Today is the day."
​

It had been some time she had spoken to her familiar, even more since she had seen the nahuelaco, keeping his presence contained in the crystals of her macuahuitl. As much as it sickened her to keep the beast in her brother's work, Ruiha couldn't trust Rajaniv's freedom, nor could she trust that she could peacefully coexist with him for long periods of time. His words alone had reminded her of those terrible incidents when she first began here. She shook her head and approached the weapon, "Not this time." Ruiha said, although felt as if she were trying to convince herself more than he. Picking up the sword from its place, propped against the corner near her bed, she placed it in its sheath and bound it to her as she stepped towards the door.
​

"We shall see."​

 

[Darog]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Amari and Zalen - Courtyard - Crystal Academia[/BCOLOR]​

[BCOLOR=transparent]"You need to extend your arm more" Amari critiqued as she watched Zalen practice. She sat nearby as she had done since Zalen's first year at the Academy, watching him train and practice his technique outside in the courtyard, usually near the lake. Both Zalen's and Amari's favourite spot to relax and train. Zalen was focused as ever, moving around his area. He threw two punches, followed by a thrust kick. "I'm just having a quick practice before we head back to class, Amari." he replied without looknig at his partner as he did so. This time he lept, executing a rolling savate kick, with a huge double palm strike. "Speed is no excuse for sloppiness." She retorted with a smirk. "Okay, Shen, I get." he laughed slightly, continuing his practice for the rest of the hour. "If only there were others willing to spar with me, I would've got a real workout."[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]The Courtyard was surprisingly bustling with life today, as a few of the newcomers watched Zalen train. He was definitely a morning person, enjoying the fresh air and the sunrise in which its rays glistened off of the immortalis. Amari stood up, wiping herself to make herself look presentable. It was Evaluation Day today. She noted what Zalen was willing to wear; his usual black trousers, and the usual hoodie he has always worn since their first time getting into the Academy. "Really, Zalen? That's the outfit you're going to wear? And to think we spent the weekend getting you some new clothes!" she huffed, crossing her arms in protest to Zalen's rather very casual choice of outfit for an important day. He responded with a shrug. "I'm sure there will be more events and social stuff for me to wear all those clothes. I don't' need to wear anything special for Evaluation Day! My skills, my technique? They will make sure I pass with flying colours!" he laughed with confidence. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"I don't know, there's some really tough competition. And you're just shrugging it off like it's not a problem!" Amari was worried, She knew Zalen's pride and confidence was...big to say the least, but she had thought it wouldn't blind him. "If it comes to fighting the others? Ghrem? Wei? They will be tough, no question about that, but the Ten Pillars Palm Style was devised to face super tough opponents." Zalen explained. Amari's blank stare was enough to get Zalen to sigh. "Okay, okay. I'll try not boast and show off." Zalen winked at Amari, to her disdain. Zalen and Amari began to walk along the path of the courtyard. "Do you think your aunt is okay? You've been quiet about it since the last letter." Amari asked, less frantic and more empathetic with worry for her partner. "She's strong, I don't doubt she has hard her fair share of hardships in Ispea, but I'm sure she will pull through!" Zalen's words on the surface matched his smile, but Amari could tell it was a mask to hide his sadness. Nonetheless, she smiled with him. "We'll just have to ace this evaluation, yeah? Make her proud of us!" Amari replied. It wasn't long walk at all, a couple of minutes from their location to the Pit, especially at the pace they were moving along at. [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]The Pit, the large arena where many bouts had taken place, Zalen could feel the fighting spirit that lingered in the air, taking a deep breath, as he saw others waiting around. "Can you feel that, Amari? It's the fighting spirit, it's burning righteously here!" Amari didn't know how to exactly respond to Zalen's attempt at flowery language."All I feel is your ego growing.." She remarked. She did noticed Wei. She gulped and nervously waved. She had always had a rather nervous feeling around him, mainly due to his familiar. . Zalen looked around. "So what are we waiting for?" [/BCOLOR]

 

[Sir Salty]

[BCOLOR=transparent]The morning was always a good start to the day, when sun kissed the green grass and blessed the land with its presence. They had spent most of the morning delivering muffins to each of their dorm mates, which seemed probably seemed like a common day tolerant annoyance. Kiza didn't mind no matter what though, he continued to smile and happily thrust the baked goods into the hands of the more unwilling participants. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Fridtjof followed behind his friend, pushing the muffin laden cart like one of the waiters at that Varsi brunch he went to once. It was a simple task: walk, stop when Kiza did, walk, rinse and repeat. This left his mind plenty of time to wander, even as Hjálmarr was being oddly quiet. He thought of how strange his life had become in two short years, a train of thought he had often.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"OF COURSE YOU SHOULD. WHEN I FIRST MET YOU, YOU WERE LESS THAN THE FLEAS THAT LIVED OFF YOUR SCALP. I NEARLY DESPAIRED WHEN A RUNT LIKE YOU WERE THE ONE TO DISCOVER ME."[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent] Hjálmarr's voice ringed in his head. The voice was colder than a winter blizzard, harder than the frozen earth, and sounded with the anguished cries of thousands.Fridtjof nearly sighed out loud at his familiar, only habit stopping the exhale. Of course Hjálmarr would mock when he thought he was quiet. He felt a wave of anger and resentment towards his unruly familiar. Even that pretentious asshole Lokni had a more well-behaved familiar than he did. He mentally snapped back, [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]"You charm me Revenant, it's a wonder women don't flock to your rotting and worm eaten ass. Though, even if they did, I doubt you could do much for them."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"SO THE PUP THINKS HE HAS FANGS DOES HE? GOOD. YOU KNOW HOW COLD THE WORLD IS, EVEN AS THE SEASON'S CHANGE. GIRD YOURSELF WITH THAT ANGER. WEAR IT LIKE ARMOR AGAINST WORLD. WHEN THEIR GLARE AT YOU, PLUCK OUT THEIR EYES . WHEN THEY MOCK YOU, TEAR OFF THEIR TONGUES. WHEN THEY DEIGN TO IGNORE YOU, CARVE YOUR NAME INTO THEIR BRAINS. YOU HAVE GROWN SOFT, WEAK, BECAUSE OF THAT WEAK WAIF YOU CALL A FRIEND."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Fridtjof let out a low growl, deep in the back of his throat, in response. He could feel his face contorting into a deep snarl as he stopped pushing the cart. He knew what his familiar was trying to do. He knew his familiar knew how much his binder hated it when Kiza was demeaned. Yet…[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Don't you dare Revenant,"[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent] the words tumbled out in a harsh whisper, [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]"don't you dare speak ill of Kiza. It matter's not that you disagree with him, he is my friend and he is as strong, no stronger than even me."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"...YOU DISGUST ME. YOU TRULY BELIEVE HE IS STRONGER THAN YOU." [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]Fridtjof could hear the sneer that Hjálmarr would have had on his face if he was corporeal. Fridtjof could hear the squeak of his fists squeezing around the metal bar of the cart, no doubt his knuckles would be bone white if he took of his gloves.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Perhaps it was because of their friendship that had begun over the years, but Kiza looked over to Frid. Something was bothering him. Kiza knew about Fridtjof conflict with his familiar and it made him sad to think there wasn't much good he could do to help him. His life's goal and mission to was to heal the hearts of others and help those who needed it. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Kiza put his hand on Frid's first.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Frid, are you okay?" he asked.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Fridtjof flinched at the touch on his hand, his hands loosening around the metal rod. Taking a shaky breath he brought up a hand and ran it over the side of his head, fingers running over shaved scalp. [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]"Y-yes Kiza, I am well."[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent] Fridtjof internally winced at the shakiness of his voice. He was still tense, he needed to relax. Closing his eyes, he began counting ten and slowed his breathing.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Kiza smiles at Frid, and put his hands in the pocket of his coat that matched his robes. He took out his flute. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"How about I make Helmy sleep for a little while?" Kiza asked, putting the mouthpiece to his lips and taking his hand off of Frid's so he could begin to play a slow little tune that he hoped would put Frid's mind at ease.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]

[/BCOLOR]​

[BCOLOR=transparent]The moment the light, almost fluttering, notes reached his ears Fridtjof felt the tension in his body begin to melt away. The music danced around him, stepping lightly from note to note in a gentle, slow dance that he could almost see in his mind's eye. He could feel Hjálmarr's presence fading from an active presence to a slight feeling at the back of his mind. A small smile crept on his face, softening his features as he bobbed his head slowly to the rises and runs of his friend's music.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"CO[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]WAR[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]D, YOU WILL CALL ON ME ONCE MORE.[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent] AND I[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent] SHALL BE HERE, WAITING."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Kiza smiled the moment Frid's expression changed. He was glad he could do that for someone, he put down his flute cleaning off the mouthpiece first with a soft cleaning kerchief. It was slowly waning on Kiza how tired he might be, but before that thought could even fully processing he was fretting over another thing.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Gasping he looked at Ghrem, who at this point was both soothed by the music, but also looked annoyed. Kiza had been so selfish to help Frid out he hadn't thought about Ghrem's needs. He was being a poor friend. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"We need to feed Ghrem!" Kiza exclaimed, "Before the evaluation.I am so sorry Ghrem. Please forgive me. I got side tracked."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]He needed to get Ghrem to the cafeteria, he looked at Frid, "Shall we go?"[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Ghrem was lost in thought. The evaluation nibbled at the back of his mind like a cranky mouse. It always bothered him that he was one of the only students that didn't actually have a weapon. He had his shield. That made him shrug, the weight of it warm against his back. Not that he hated it, but it was always a point of contention when going up against other students and instructors. Yes. He could defend, and that was about it. Of course, Kiza probably had it worse.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]His gaze fell on the long haired man, and he felt the other's eyes bore into him. Music was still fresh on the air. Had Frid's familiar taken to instigating a migraine for the Norh, again?[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Oh, Kiza, no… I'm not upset at that. I was thinking about the evaluation. Just curious what they're going to test us on." He brought his arm up and rubbed the side of his face. Fortunately, he'd put his armor on earlier. Time had apparently moved very briskly since they started handing out muffins until now. "Actually, we could probably skip breakfast and head to the Pit. I won't die. I mean. From starvation. I might get stabbed… a lot. I'm unfortunately what one would call a 'slow moving target.' And boy do people love reminding me of that."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Kiza cocked his head to the side and bit his lip. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"I was selfish, I took too long," Kiza told Ghrem, "It doesn't matter what you are. I made a promise to everyone to give them muffins and then I made a promise to take you to the cafeteria. Now I can't keep both it seems. I'm sorry."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"If you want I will take Ghrem to the cafeteria." Frid asked as he let his hand drop. He wasn't looking forward to the evaluation, though for different reasons different from his friends. He continued as an icy feeling settled in his stomach, "Least I can do, what do you say Sugartoast? Let's see if your namesake is being served now."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Ghrem tried not to give a look to Kiza. How could he just continually fall on the sword for everyone? Ghrem would get exhausted. He was getting exhausted just thinking about it [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]now[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]. "Very well. Frid and I will head to the cafeteria if that'll help your conscious, Kiza?" He then looked at Frid. "I really do enjoy those nicknames." His tone very much alluded to the fact that he didn't. Fridtjof merely snorted back at the Alari.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Kiza snapped his fingers with an idea.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"How about we have a breakfast to go?" Kiza asked them, since they were technically delivering muffins at the dormitories already, "Then go straight to the pit?" He was trying to say the least he didn't want them to be late. It be selfish.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Are you implying muffins? Because, I think if I eat any more muffins, I'll become a muffin." He immediately knew that was probably not the best thing to say. He awaited a smart ass comment from Frid with already downturned brows. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"No silly, I have yogurt and bananas, we can pop in and pop right back out," Kiza smiled.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Actually, I forgot something back at the room," Fridtjof said sheepishly, no he hadn't, "I will retrieve the food and meet you two at the pit?"[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Kiza stares at Frid. Brush a bang from his navy purple eyes he gives a face. There was a heavy sigh in his heart, but he smiled instead.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"You will be okay?" Kiza asked Frid, he didn't want Helm to hurt Frid while they were away. Beside that, Kiza didn't want to be reminded of the exam. Why did most of what they learned seemed like in the betterment of hurting people? He was keeping them from going wasn't he? He was selfish. He knew that. "I have a box of yogurt, down on the bottom shelf there's blueberry and strawberry. The bananas are on the counter." [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Committed to memory Kiza, besides Hjálmarr will be docile until the exam," He paused before giving his white haired friend a smile, "Hurry up and finish your deliveries.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Kiza smiled one more time.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Okay Frid," Kiza grabbed Ghrem's hand, "Shall we? I have to deliver the muffins to the Pit students the ones not in their dorms. And to the teachers."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Ghrem was startled momentarily when Kiza took his hand. He wasn't used to people getting so handsy. It always took him by surprise when people touched him. "Definitely, I would hate to be late. I have an allergy to getting the shit beaten out of me." He looked back. "Thank you, Frid."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]It was an interesting trip to the Pit with Kiza, Ghrem had to say. Of course, Ghrem was used to the sheer polite distraction that was Kiza's existence. Still, he couldn't help but to feel his heart in his throat like a wad of bread--or muffin. The Evaluation was looming on his shoulder, and honestly he didn't really care much the muffin handouts. Well, that was being blunt. He cared, but it was not at the forefront of his mind.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]They reached the Pit shortly thereafter.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]As they began to come up to it, a sea of students like poppies surrounding the pit. Kiza stopped and looked at Ghrem with a smile.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Ghrem, it's okay," Kiza told him softly, "You'll be fine. I noticed the worried look, your face gets all squinchy." Kiza giggles, "But I wish this wasn't a thing. I wish you knew how brave and strong you were. And you're more than a hitting bag."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]That caused Ghrem to pause. "Thanks for that, Kiza. Good luck today, yourself. Maybe whatever happens will go easy on you for the muffins. I'm going to go take a seat." He touched his own face. "Squinchy, eh?" [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Ghrem plopped down in the amphitheater next to Xin. "Nervous?" he asked. The sheer amount of swords was always disheartening. Harald Wittel even more so.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]While Kiza sort of glided away from Ghrem and past the students waving his hands enthusiastically. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Teacher! I brought muffins for everyone! I am going to pass them out. Okay!" Kiza laughed as he began to go through the narrow aisle of the amphitheater handing out muffins to the students at the pit. Probably with an over enthusiastic phrase like, [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]"you need all the energy you can get."[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent] and [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]"this should put a shine in your morning"[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Because if Ghrem was worried about the exam, than so must have been everybody else. And he figured this was the only way to help them. Someone who would love and support them, and bring them the things they needed no matter the circumstance. That seemed for the best. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Shortly after,[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Fridtjof made his way into the pit, carrying a small basket in the crook of his arm. He searched the group of other students for his friends, and when he found them he briskly walked his way to his friends. He had tied his journal to his side, not wanting to come back without a personal item. The icy pit in his stomach was still there, and he could feel Hjálmarr stirring once more.[/BCOLOR]

 

[Hellis]

THE PIT: Where bones and dreams break.
​

[BCOLOR=transparent]Harald stared down the youngins' as they arrived. Kiza was feeding everyone, most of them would regret eating minutes before a fight. Of course, being superior the young , he ate two. Because the would not affect him. Being that he was superior in every way.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]He also noted that Ren was just barely on time as always. The Storm Islander was not the first of his kind to come to the academy. HIs people were former raiders and warriors. It ran in their blood as much as it did the Nohrs. He had thought and regrettably killed a few during the Crystal War. He wasn't surprised by the presence of so many Ethreans. They were always down for a fight it seemed. All that tribal warfare led to a race of natural born fighters. The Balamestri was a pleasant surprise though. Many of them seemed to favor crystal smithing and political play if they came from the cities. But Tribal Balamestri were rare to see at the academy, they often preferred to stay by their old ancestral home. His eyes fell on Alessa and he noted that likely, she and ren would be the first to act once the evaluation task was explained. They had all the patience and self control of a hungry cat and a overly excited dog. BUt he had and idea for even the wildest of the bunch.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"You" He pointed at Kiza. "Flute boy. You have just been designated VIP." He grinned. "Listen up. You are all now deemed capable enough to go on field missions, that means you need to train for various situations you have yet to fully understand. One of these is to protect politicians, children, refugees, the elderly and even royalty on occasions." [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]He smiled cruelly. "Sometimes, the target won't listen to you. Other times they are worthless in a fight. Assume Kiza is the latter for now. I will try kill him. You will keep me from succeeding. AT all costs." He took a step forward. "Furthermore. You are to only fight combined today. Sometimes, situation calls for you to not have your beast at your side but to rely solely on the powers you are given with it inside you." He held a hand up to stifle any complaints about this.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Before me are my weapons and as you can see, they make a half circle. Consider them a border if you will. Kiza needs to pass through that half circle to the single sword behind me. I will be swinging to hurt all of you, but I promise not to cripple or kill ya. Questions?" He said that last part with to much glee for Wei to be comfortable with the situation. Ren had starry eyes, his hand on his blade already. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Wei spoke up eyeing their tutor closely. "Can we position ourselves before we attack. Like you would perhaps plan a mission parameter?" The young noble spoke, raising a single eyebrow.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Very good Wei. Yes, you may chose positions before we start. Once one of you step inside the semicircle, I will start attacking. I will not make this easy on you, so choose your tactics and positions well." [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]As he spoke, Ren had already started moving to his left. He chuckled to himself as he drew one foot back and shifted his point of gravity lower. He rocked on the ball of his left foot. "Well. Save your pretty little flute player. Get. Past. Me" [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Ren shot forward like a cannonball, creating a burst of air underneath his feet as he wind stepped right at the old man. He was fast, his sword describing a picture perfect opening arch as he sliced at his instructor. Only to find himself parried just above the hilt of his sword, sending a painful jolt of kinetic force through his hand. The hooked, broad dagger called Desert Spirit deflected ren to the side with the parry, only for Harald to measure a kick right to the ribs of Ren. Ren yelped as he flew from the soccer kick, landing painfully a meter or so away.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]"Points for Being Active before reactive. However, know your damn limits." Even as he spoke he advanced on the remaining students, casually kicking up the Katana knonw as The Pledge and catching it mid air before starting to run at them. Before they could properly reach, he was upon them. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]----[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Academia Crystalis, Headmasters Office.[/BCOLOR]


[BCOLOR=transparent]"No word of Ben?" Josept looked down at the picture of an old friend. The grizzlied old man and his white and red Shardwolf companion were smiling at the person who had taken the picture. It was somewhat blurry, as PicCaptors were still in early stages. The ability to take a picture with a light immortalis lense charged by a certain light sprite. His finger traced the picture before he looked up at the woman infront of him. Her hair was bright blue, a result of her bond with a watersprit. Her name was Leela and she was the head of the Hunters Guild. A group of Wielders that specifically recruited graduates with high combat experience. They went after the biggest and nastiest of beasts. Louise "Mama" Marinies was a fierce old woman.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"None." She confirmed. Her face showed no emotion but her voice betrayed a hint of worry. "Blank, Armin, Valos and Lon Lon have all vanished to. Ben makes the fifth in the past six months. Vanishing with almost no trace. "[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"...Someone is targeting Wielders. " Joseph agreed[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"One is nothing, two is emergence, three is a stable pattern. Five is a declaration of war Joseph. "[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent] "Yes. I have a bad feeling about all this. What about the other problems?"[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]"The Leviathan Cultists aren't that much of a problem. They thrive in fringe societies but we are stamping them out faster then they recruit I am pretty sure. The Seperatists in Ardent Valley however.. They are growing awfully bold. The local Ispean Low King doesn't seem to know how to deal with the situation."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"No choice then. Tighten the security around our Third to Fifth years. Even if they aren't prime targets. I want one of yours to keep an eye on them once they go out on the field."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Hmhm. We can do that. IT gives us a better eye for who has potential to join us down the road. So it works out." Louise agreed with a nod. She pushed of the wall she had been leaning on and began to move towards the door.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"I am really sorry about Armin" Joseph spoke softly. "I know the two of you were close."[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]"I met him before I met my wife Joseph. Close does not even come close." She paused before opening the door. When she had left, Joseph sank back in his seat before looking out the towers large window. Down below he saw activity at the pit. He allowed himself to smile. At least the future wasn't to bleak.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]-----------------------------------[/BCOLOR]


[BCOLOR=transparent]TL:DR[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Your instructor in Martial Arts and Weapons has tasked you to protect Kiza at every cost and get him to a point behind him. He is extremely strong, fast and his skill with the blade unparalleled. This is a difficult test of your skills to be sure. You have been ordered only to use your own powers, so no tag teaming with your spirits for this one. Merged together only. Remember, aslong as Kiza survives and get to the point, all win.[/BCOLOR]

 

[Hellis]

[BCOLOR=transparent]THE PIT: How to hurt yourself, full throttle style.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Collab between @Darog @Hellis @Dionysian Lumberjack @Snowball and @Sir Pinkleton [/BCOLOR]​

[BCOLOR=transparent]Ren all but bounced up to his feet, cracked rib notwithstanding. He had a feral look on his face, eyes wide and his pupils small pinpricks as his nostrils flared.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Fridtjof lowered into a ready stance as soon as Ren had charged their teacher, unclipping his shovel, Jorobifask, and sliding his pickaxe, Steinnbrjota, from his sides. Jorobifask and Steinnbrjota, Earth-Mover and Stone-Breaker, lethal facsimiles of the tools he used as a child. The shovel's head was larger than his own and the pick's blades were as long his forearms, and both were sharpened enough to sing they twirled in his hands, Jorobifask resting on his right shoulder and Steinnbrjota extended in his bent left arm. The arm length Immortalis tools glowed a faint purple miasma as Fridtjof began channeling his familiar's power through them. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]He shivered slightly as his body began, emptying of sensation. The world began losing saturation and focus, his body began chill and numb, and his breath became frosted as his his familiar made himself known. Blue fog wafted from his eyes as he waited.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Their teacher rushed at them and swung at Fridtjof first. His katana swept low, enough hit the dirt but it didn't seem to slow him down in the slightest. As the sword shot up a in upwards arch, it showered the other in rocks and dirt. As the blade was no doubt blocked, Fridtjof would no doubt find himself blinded. Slipping past him, he weaved toward Brooklyn. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Knowing he had to protect his classmates, Fridtjof let the cold fire fill his veins as he he took a face full of earth. With his eyes shut, he spun his pick axe before embedding into the ground while Jorobifask was swung as he stepped to meet his teacher's sword. In the same motion, Steinnbrjota cleaved into the earth but he was already passed. Frid knew he was too late, so he spun, still blinded, and switched his stance while rotating. As if pulled by a chain connected to the pick axe, the earth rose and buckled slightly before a rotted arm shot out and began pulling a head, then a torso, and finally a full body appeared. The pale, corpse was crouched and had a death grin as it let out a screeching wail and coiled into a leaping position on all fours.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Brooklyn mutters to herself in irritation of the disorganized flickers of fighting already going on. They had a chance to organize themselves before this all started, but of course it was all ruined by the rambunctious Wei. Her muffins, from the ever-gracious Kiza, were barely tucked away in a safe spot away from her familiar before she was forced to bring to bear her shield and Fosite. Ren was a lost cause with his headlong rush in so immediately and was punished for it. [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]Serves him right, [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]she thinks to herself as Laney leaps into her axe and the length begins to flicker with fire.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]She sets her sights to figure what to do, where to go from here, and Fridtjof appeared to preparing to do something. So she decides better to help him. She lurches forward, bringing her shield up higher before catching the movement of Harald going to strike, and she ignites fire beneath her to speed herself up, making a split second decision to attempt to attack him from the side.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Harald grinned widely at his student even as he heard the wail behind him. He met her head on, nodding in approval as she split to the side. He twisted and slashed at her, to axe arm, intent on making her bring her shield up. Leaving part of his back exposed to Aleesa.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Aleesa stretched for about five seconds. Five second were all the preparation she needed. Without hesitation or any semblance of a plan, she charged in. Fist drawn back and body thrust forward. Harald was distracted with Brook. Now was her chance! If Aleesa was good at anything, it was tunnel vision. Her eyes were set on his back and nothing could come between her and that big ol' opening. Her feet kicked up puffs of dust as she ran, right before she closed the distance and jumped forward. Her fist burned brightly, heating the air around it as it barreled towards Harald like a meteor.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]Taaake this!"[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]She actually announced her attack. He wanted to scold her right there. But instead, he ducked low sliding back by placing one foot on Brooklyn's shield and using the stomp to redirect. He went low, sliding just an inch below the fist, feeling it singe him before he drew the pommel of his blade at her knee, sending her tumbling towards Brooklyn. He was still headed towards Kiza. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Yelped as she tumbled. Her fist was like a fumbled grenade with three seconds on the clock. No one knew what it would hit, but it would hit [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]something. [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]Her redirected trajectory brought her attack and all the power she'd put behind it against Brook's shield. It hit like a runaway truck. The shield was made of wood and such a material was probably the worst choice for going against an attack like hers. The force didn't break so much as simply explode and the shockwave send them both flying in opposite directions. Aleesa tumbled away, flying head over heels until she came to a screeching halt on her face. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Ow…"[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]She turned to see the damage she'd caused and called out a sheepish, "Um… sorry!" towards Brook. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Her shield. The one she had painstakingly taken care of since bringing it from home and that Ghrem had helped her reinforce… gone. Her face was cut from the flying splinters, reluctant to protect her face from them as Harald was still on the move. She twists her body and lashes out with her axe to hook his leg and catch him up as she cries out, [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]"By the frost! Ren, Fridtjof, anyone, get your asses over here already!"[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Harald looked back and just barely managed to keep himself from getting his foot lopped off, he was off center for a second and that was all Ren needed. "Revenge is Mine!" He bellows as he air stepped twice into the air then came at him from above just as Harald in a massive downward swing. He caught his opponent off balance, the instructor having to awkwardly parry the downwards blade. He gritted his teeth as Ren bounced off his shoulder with a kick, landing out of retaliatory strike range and sliced away a wind blade that Harald nimbly dodged. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"GOOD! You are starting to attack more in sequence! And gold star for you Miss Brooklyn, never stop even if your downed!" He bellowed and then tossed his katana at Ren who just barely dodged. He had already started to move again, fishing up the broad sword as he ran To intercept Wei, Kiza, Ghrem and whoever else had yet to attack him. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Zalen stood with Amari as she merged within him, ready to intercept Harald.[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent] "Errm...You sure this will work?"[/BCOLOR] [BCOLOR=transparent]She asked nervously. Zalen cracked both his knuckles with a fiery spirit. "If doesn't? We can just torch this place!" Zalen replied. He saw the instructor barreling away from Ren towards Kiza. readying his palms with scorching light.[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent] "[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]SORRY ABOUT THIS SIR! THIS WILL HURT YOU MORE THAN IT WILL HURT ME![/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]"[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent] He shouted at Harald before moving in for the strike. His left palm glowed with sunlight as his arm extended towards Harald. Zalen smirked with confidence in thinking he had gotten Harald. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Zalen would find that While his blow hit. It hit the broadside of the Immortalis blade of Harald. The Thick broadsword was far better suited for parrying then the thin katana, and so he only took a small part of Zalens blow. In true Harald fashion, he headbutted Zalen for having the gall to smirk mid battle. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"I dare say that hurt you more than it did me. But we can't all be right." He said as the youth staggered away from him. But Zalens little flank had, along with all the actions leading up to it, given Kiza and his escort time to move further towards their goal.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]----[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]TL: DR[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]The groups offensive heavy hitters has bought enough time for those dedicating themselves to Kizas defense to move partway to the goal. He is now barreling towards them, hellbent on playing "Hit Kiza so hard Ghrem cries himself to sleep"[/BCOLOR]

 

[CasketCase]

/-=-=BEFORE EVALUATION=-=-\​

It was a few steps down the hallway before it struck her. It was the creeping sensation of dread that always came when approaching a scheduled spar or evalution. Ruiha knew she had made progress, but her confidence held a sliver of hesitation. How could she not? The vivid sensation of jagged crystalline teeth biting and tearing into flesh and the sickening euphoria rush that came from her cruelty; the memories of her first sparring match at the academy lingered in the back of her mind like a slow acting poison. The thought of what might have been had the instructor not stopped him then still frightened her blood even after the passing years.

Coming to a stop, Ruiha focused on steadying her nerves and took to studying her surroundings. She was in the grand lobby where the banners from all walks of life covered the expansive walls, even one from the Nanikeona, her own tribe. It was a small thing, not even really a banner, but rather a tiny tricket. Focused around a smooth sphere of gold, surrounded by two flat half discs of blue and orange crystal, creating a complete circle representing the ocean and the sunset lit sky. Hanging from tiny holes around the edges of the disc by fine silver wire were various shells, fangs, precious metals, and crystals, each of which representing a historical event from the tribe's past. Brushing her fingertips across the signet, she took a deep breath and exhaled. This had became somewhat of a ritual for her, allowing her to rebuild her inner strength when she felt uneasy.

Her confidence restored, she continued on until she emerged outside, where she was greeted by the morning breeze and the acrid smell of burnt metals, wood, and other unknown materials. Turning her gaze to the origin of the stench, she found the faint wisps of fading smoke. There had been rumors for some time of a arsonist dwelling in or nearby the academy who burned seemingly random objects at night. Her curiosity might have led her to investigate it further, but she feared she would be late if she lingered any further. Leaving the mystery unsolved, she hurried to the Pit.

 

[firejay1]

~ Before the Evaluation Began ~

Laziness had never really been tolerated in the Kamiya household, and Akie wasn't about to let loose today of all days. She woke up a little before the sun rose and headed out to the front of the building, ignoring the chilly morning air. Right outside the gates, she first stretched briefly. Then, taking her naginata in her hands, she began to move, twisting it in controlled movements about her body. The long weapon sliced through the air in slow, hypnotic movements - slow, but never ceasing. Every once in a while, it would sing when she angled the blade just that particular way, but for the most part she wasn't moving quickly enough for that. She needed to warm up, not exhaust herself. She seemed more as though performing some kind of dance than training.

A voice Akie had learned to pick up in all its obscurity floated in on the wind. "Why are you using that?" The girl from Kalthran did not flinch or alter her trajectory in any way, but she did tilt her head a little to look over at the figure floating at eye-level not too far from her. She thought she could detect a small pout on the creature's impassive, pale face. The long, unnecessary sleeves indicating that the creature's arms were crossed petulantly across her little chest completed the picture.

A smile touched her lips, even as she continued with her funny little warm-up dance. "You know what you make me think of sometimes, Kefeli? You remind me of a jealous woman who hasn't yet figured out that she's the mistress instead of the housewife." The ensuing displeasure was keenly felt from the wind demon as a gust of wind practically screamed past her face to find its way to Kefeli. She laughed to herself, then placated her companion with a, "This is just for warm-up. It would be silly of me to waste your powers on a morning exercise. Even if today is evaluation day." Just barely mollified, the little demon let her gusts subside and continued to watch as Akie continued swinging her weapon for exercise. This exchange was not typical of them. Akie didn't normally do morning exercises. At least not beyond stretching good morning and maybe taking a quick dip in the artificial lake if she felt like it.

The doll-like demon eyed the girl and asked pointedly, "Are you nervous?" Akie didn't respond with any more than a shake of her head, still no falter in her movement. "Good. There is no reason to be. You will pass." The girl gave her familiar another odd look. So far as she knew, Kefeli had no particular powers in prediction, and certainly she'd been wrong before, but she had this strange tendency of speaking of things that may or may not happen as if they would occur exactly as she had said it, as if the demon had been the one to decide the outcome from the start. It was a certainty Akie would never really understand. And if she was being honest with herself, she was a very little nervous. It was why she was here: to work off the nerves before the hour was up. It felt like that one short hour simply flew past, and the next thing she knew, it had hit seven. She pressed the end of her naginata against the ground and wiped her forehead a little. It was still fairly chilly, so she turned to head inside before her body could get too cold, when a flash of light turned her head. What had that been? Had she just imagined it? She leaned in that direction, a little mischief in her eyes.

Before she could ponder it further, however, Kefeli cleared her throat loudly. Right. It was seven. The evaluation. Wrestling with her frustrated curiosity for a second, Akie finally headed inside towards the Pit.

 

[Hellis]

[BCOLOR=transparent]THE PIT[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Wei watched Ren get ragdolled and thought quickly. "Ghren, your shield stay infront of Kiza at all times, you are a the last line of defence. Kiza, I've played you in chess before. I kn[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent]ow you are sharp, you'll have to tell Ghrem when to move. " Wei didn't look to their charge as he spoke. His eyes were tracking their teacher as the old man passed Fridtjof and rocketed towards them. Luckily, Brooklyn blocked the way. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Go!" He watched in fascination and horror as Brooklyn's shield was shattered by the blow from Alessas errant fist. Where they really that poor of a team? He could only hope Kiza and Ghrem had started to move as this was all going on. But brooklyn showed spirit, almost catching Harald off guard. And Ren came down like a angry comet, landing a follow-up kick to his parried attack. But now their instructor was heading straight for Kiza again only for another body being thrown in the way. The fist of Zalen just barely blocked in time but the rebuttal of a headbutt was more than enough to keep Haralds back free for the moment.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]The sight of the others being tossed aside like broken toys wasn't all to assuring, but it was to be expected when it came to their instructor. Wei's plan was the most logical choice, Ruiha silently concurred, as Ghrem was clearly the best among them when it came to defense. As for her, she could only shake her head, resigned to the fact she would have to throw herself against the walking meat grinder that was Harald. "No time to waste." Ruiha said to herself and reluctantly channeled her familiar before charging forth. Rearing back her macuahuitl with clenched her teeth, she quickly closed the gap between her and Harald. That vicious looking weapon swung down toward her instructor, its teeth seeking flesh while she prepared for the worst he might dish out in retaliation.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]To be a VIP seemed nearly as harrowing as being in a war. Perhaps it was imagination that could fill in the details of the blood shed that might have occur over one individual. It in truth made him very sad clinging on Ghrem's bicep. He had never experienced the kind of sadness before, well no that wasn't true. It just wasn't something he could readily explain. It seemed weird this was their evaluation and he felt tragedy for the souls who might have to be put through this. Why was this such a sudden feeling? Perhaps it was because he never truly understood what he wanted and sleepiness had caught up to him. That he started to think of crazy things, but he followed Ghrem's footsteps and painfully shed a tear in his heart. Why did men resort to violence? [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Harald took a split second to evaluate his newest obstacle. He knew Ren and the others would be on him again soon enough so he had to stay in motion. The vicious looking macuahuitl was a weapon he rarely faced, but he was confident in his own blade. He met the swing with a parry, rolling into the motion and passed the charging woman, putting a foot square between her shoulders to kick her away further into her own momentum. He was met with several orbs of dark energy that he swatted away with his blade. But Wei kept moving, kept his distance while still making his Instructors current trajectory suboptimal. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]What was once a charging attack, full of bravado, was now reduced to an awkward stumble as Ruiha uneasily barreled forth, propelled off course by Harald's kick. Determined not to let that be the end of it, she leaned forward, mid-stride, and struck her weapon into the ground. Perhaps in a more controlled environment, Ruiha could have pulled off something as impressive as using her sword to turn around by means of her momentum and the sudden stop, but for now, she would have to make do with falling on her face. A mouthful of dirt for her troubles, she scrambled back onto her feet and gave chase.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Miso let out a low sigh as she witnessed her classmates hurling themselves at Harald. Normally she might do the same thing, but he was certainly more skilled than her and any advantage she might gain from attacking first would almost certainly be lost immediately by putting herself in a vulnerable position. With their frontline almost immediately shattered to pieces, she channeled Dhol into her weapon before moving up behind Kiza and Ghrem, giving Ghrem a tap on the shoulder. "I'll watch your back," she said softly, keeping one eye on the fight.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]If his life goal was to be able to help others when they needed to be helped, then he should do so. No matter the circumstance. His heart ached with what he must have felt was a terrible life to live, he stuck his hand in his coat pocket. Letting his hand slip from Ghrem's shirt. While he did not stop moving he adjusted his posture to put he mouthpiece to his lip. Casting a spell from his heart, a song of hope for those on the field. To inspire them. To move them through the sounds. This was how and probably the only way he could commit, and speak the true love he felt for everyone. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Miso's reassurance was a lifesaver. Ghrem pulled Kiza along towards the safe point. The front line of fighters had fallen like corn to a harvester. He gripped the small man to his body as he moved forward, pulling him into his fold as easily as he could. Yet, he felt some jerking about as Kiza pulled his flute out and began to play. Ghrem didn't like it when he did that. He didn't like feeling his mood change unwillingly.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Fear eked out of him like a poison from a snake. It may not have been the best move, as Ghrem was more motivated by fear than peace. Still, he wanted to finish the Evaluation. Not wanting Harald to get too close, Ghrem shot up his stone wall between him and the instructor as soon as the instructor was close. Miso and Xin were within proximity to him to help.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]The notes from Kiza's flute were soft, tightening Xin's breath. Hope and peace weren't the appropriate emotions that collected her composure. It was the fear that drove her. Still, she let herself be soothed, her emotions steady. Concealed by light, she and Miso were closest in proximity to Ghrem and Kiza. Xin prowled like a predator, her back facing the two. Her peers were thrown back as Harald continued to draw closer, his blade bared like fangs.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Before he could strike at the defensive wall, Xin readily shot forward, her claws striking back at the old man; however with no means to attack. Instead, hoping to dismantle his equilibrium. An arc of disorientating light projected from her motion of swing. If Harald were to break through their first line of offense, she would act as an invisible spring to push him back before breaching their wall. Xin drew back as quick as she rushed forward, leaving the blind man to the other lions. Although still concealed within light, she looked to Ghrem and Kiza. The target had to keep moving towards the destination if they wanted to succeed.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Harald admitted he was impressed. While the first line had worked to slow him down and set the target moving with his escort. The wall shooting up infront of him would not pose enough problem had it been alone. But Wei kept taking potshots at him, forcing him to either weather the barrage or change his trajectory. Right into Xin attack. This was the second time he was corralled into a flanking maneuver. The he closed his eyes barely in time, moving away from xin and the shield. Buying Miso, Kiza and Ghrem more time in doing so. He used the wall to shoot downwards , rolled roughly on the ground to get underneath Xin claws, he skid on his feet and tossed and rushed at Wei. He closed the distance, the boy retreating back and fencing at him with his cane sword. He stopped turned and tossed the sword into the earth wall. As it went, the blade tangled with Xins wires and anchored her to the wall. Wei saw his opportunity to push for a thrust with his sword. Only for his teacher to punch him square in the face. Wei could hear Shadras laugh as he fell onto his ass. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Regaining the ground lost from her initial charge, Ruiha reached the wall Ghrem had erected to keep Harald away. At best, it had only kept him at bay as she found Xin entangled and Wei taking a jab to the face. Grabbing the sword anchoring her classmate to the wall, she yanked it out, freeing Xin and arming herself with another weapon. While the irony of attacking Harald with his own sword was tempting, Ruiha didn't feel safe holding it, imagining the weapon might have a nasty surprise waiting for anyone not its owner. Instead, she flung it back at him, her lack of throwing weapon skill apparent as it clumsily fumbled and flipped in the air. As the thrown sword would prove to be an obstacle from above, she attack from below, having moved once the weapon left her hand. Delivering an upward swing at her instructor, the speckling of black fluid flung from the macuahuitl's teeth would be the only sign that she had manifested her weakening poison.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Harald smiled to himself as his sword came sailing towards him in a clumsy fling. He had reached another of the blades stuck into the ground. The fact that Ghrem and Kiza was past it meant they had reached more then halfway. This year was promising indeed. The sword he tore from the ground was a "Ringsword", a blade with a large singe where the blade and handle met. "I ACCEP YOUR CHALLENGE YOUNG WARRIOR" His voice bellowed as she came in low. He snapped the broadsword flying at him by the hand while he parried her blade and smacked the flat of the broadsword across her back. But in doing so, he had allowed one of the spikes snag in his skin. He raised a eyebrow as the weakening poison seeped into him.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"...Gold Star for you to. Seems I need to finish this before your egos grow to big." He turned to look towards the ever retreating present of Kiza nad Ghrem. Wei had gotten up, and while feeling his sore nose he was over by Kiza. That song may not be what everyone needed. But to Wei it was a goodsend. It allowed him to think clearly. "Ghrem. Kiza is gonna have to go the last stretch on his own. This is where we make the last stand."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Their Teacher let out a guffaw. "Noble."[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Wei didn't let his poise falter in the slightest. "Kiza, if you want this all to be over. Shield me." He began to walk calmly at the approaching foe. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Kiza had hoped the lingering effects of his flute would last for a while. It felt good to help people wherever he could. This was such a tragic and scary fate he believed. And it only made him more desperate in his heart to stop people from falling into darkness. He had seen what had been done or what could be the possibility of it. And it broke his sheltered heart. He heard Wei call out to him. For a shielding, Kiza nodded his head in response, "I will defend you." Kiza spoke softly. To some it seemed strange, Kiza went on his knees like if he were in prayer. With his eyes held closed, while a brief glimpse of a watering angel extended out a hand. A bubble of water erupted from what seemed like tiny rain drops, that all weaved together into one little shield. That looked like jelly, yet water moved around it like it was trapped in translucent jelly. Kiza held onto visualizing the shield in his mind. While Vivien helped him hold it. Luckily what kept Kiza going was the will of protecting those around him. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent] His blade out in a en gardé pose, he deflected the first slash this time and let the shield of Kiza absorb the second blow. He stepped in and let the dark weakening aura flare up. The effect of the weakening poison compounding the dark magics influence. Harald paled slightly as his vitality was sapped out of him bit by bit. Wei could hear Shadras cackle with malignant excitement. "FEAR ME MORTAL!" only to be cut short as Harald planted himself firmly with a broad posture and tossed Wei like ragdoll at Ghrem. He did however huff in exertion after doing so. It was all the proof Wei needed that could get to him. At least a little.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]That's when Ren came thundering at Harald from behind once more, no doubt with everyone else in tow. Wild snarl on the young samurais lips the wolfboys sword let out a reverberating clang as it connected with Harald, winds smashing dust up around them both as he was forced to dodge Haralds counter attack. Harald calmly got into a defensive position., kicking up the last of his blades. A sword designed with deep grooves to the backside, meant to catch and break blades. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"I'll be damned. This is the first time in six years I've had to use all my blades during evaluation." [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Wei forgot his composure completely as he lay there, a bit bewildered at the tenacity of his fellow third years. Harald in the meantime dodged another wind blade and began to head towards Kiza. But with Ghrem in his way and the rest in on his back, this looked like a done deal.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent] "EVERYONE. GET HIM NOW!" Ren shouted on top of his lounges. His wind blade once more missed just barely.[/BCOLOR]

 

[Dionysian Lumberjack]

"Go." Fridtjof said, in a voice barely above a whisper. It was difficult for him to talk when channeling his powers, almost impossible when using his full power to strengthen himself. He had been unable to send his construct after the swordsman due to the dirt in his eyes. In response he had let Hjálmarr enter the construct, allowing the summon to act on its own, a decision he was ambivalent about. While it wasn't technically summoning his familiar, the Revenant was still on the field in a diminished state.

Still blinded by the dirt Harald had sprayed into his eyes, compounded with his dulled senses, made it difficult for him to gauge where the swordsman was, or what was going on in the battle. He heard the occasional yelp, crash, and other noises of the battlefield that he had grown initmate with in his dreams. Suddenly, he could hear a flute piercing through the haze. Kiza was playing a song Fridtjof thought, before he shoved the sound out of his name and let the cold sea of rage drown him once more.

"HAHAHAHAHAH, YOU STILL THINK YOU CAN ORDER ME AROUND." The construct laughed as he leaped at Harald like a demonic zombie spider. The ground cracked slightly from the force of the leap, a mass of grey skin, emaciated limbs, and a crazed multitude of voices ripping from his summon's mouth. Scrambling into the air with a graceful gracelessness, Hjálmarr bent at his apex and began falling hands first in front of the swords-master, stopping his path.

"HAIL SWORDSMAN. HAVE I TOLD YOU HOW NICE YOUR NOSE WOULD LOOK ON MY FACE?" Fridtjof heard his familiar's familiar crazed voice scream

Grunting in annoyance, Fridtjof wiped his eyes clean before following his familiar on the ground with Steinnbrjota leading it's wielder to his foe. The pick was held angled in front of him, while Jorobifask was raised over his head waiting to deliver a cleave. He cleared the distance between him and Harald with was as his construct swung its right arm in a wild haymaker, trying to rend the teacher's face with the construct sharp talons of nails.

Bringing his shovel down on the swords-master's back, Fridtjof threw his prodigious strength into the swing while shifting his stance to prepare a follow up swipe of his pick axe.

Harald moved quickly, the Construct was an different form of opponent. It didn't feel pain, but neither did he have to worry in regards to holding back. Why this was important would soon be evident to Fridtjof and his familiar. As the creature jumped him he dodged the swipe and jammed both blades straight trough its body before with a flex and pulling his arms apart. He shattered the earth construct into so mcuh dirt and stone.

Fridtjofs attack hit pay dirt however, Harald wasn't able to properly parry it in time, and the weakening effect of the poison made Harald to stumble somewhat.

Fridtjof almost smiled as he felt the rush of power fun through him at the destruction of his construct. The rush of freezing anger had an immediate impact. Fridtjof's blonde hair paled to white, as steam billowed out of his mouth and his eyes burned with a ice blue miasma. This is going to suck, he thought even he felt the tenuous control over his emotions cracking, as he opened his mouth and roared and he lost himself to the rage.

The sound was something that should have been impossible for a human to vocalize: a growl, a screech, a howl and a roar, all magnified and distorted into a primordial sound with only one meaning.

Kill.

 

[firejay1]

The Battle of the Pit, as Akie had jokingly dubbed it in her head, was a bit of a shit show, wasn't it? Right from the beginning, Akie broke down her possibilities into two distinct types: 1. defense, 2. offense. She chose to treat the evaluation like a real assignment where the objective was to protect the VIP to the finish line. When Kefeli was trapped inside of the fan, Akie was completely useless at any kind of range. She was a close-range fighter, and she'd barely buy a minute if she threw herself at their teacher, Harald. So she stuck to Kiza as Ghrem and Miso did. Most of her classmates, however, were going for it. She watched with very little surprise as Harald faced each of them in their turn. Their resident loud children were being truly excellent Harald-fodder, even as they ushered Kiza forward. Wei, as always, appeared to have his head on straight, giving the closest resemblance to an order among them. Interestingly enough, Soup Girl also appeared to be focusing on helping get Kiza to the end point, rather than throwing herself in. The girl was less reckless than some of the others, but Aki had always gotten the impression that she was kind of competitive, and some of these people had to be showing her up at the moment.

Kiza began playing his flute, and Akie got the urge to swear loudly and actively shove the waif of a kid forward, before his magic worked its way into her system, spreading a calm and peace through her core. She could feel her muscles unwinding, making her realize that she'd been tense in the first place. It was kind of disturbing, really, but she couldn't help feeling reassured anyways. She'd always fought better when she wasn't on edge, anyways. Or so Ayako had always told her. Maybe that was why she always lost to her older sister. No one could kick her butt like that evil.... Focus, Akie. Kefeli warned her from her place in the fan. Right. She was getting distracted. She came back to herself just as Harald punched Wei in the face. She found herself oddly impressed by Ruiha's audacity in using one of the teacher's own swords to distract him enough to draw just a little blood. She got a sword across her back for her trouble, but it had apparently given Wei enough time to scramble up and tell Ghrem to let Kiza go the rest of the way alone. This would have been fine. If it had been any one of their other classmates, Akie would have been totally alright abandoning them to join the fray while they went the rest of the way, but could they really trust Kiza to just abandon them and-

With the call to make a shield, Kiza dropped to his knees, and this time the melody coming from his flute did nothing to reassure her. She held herself in check as he made the shield, but even as an embattled Wei took on Harald with Kiza's flimsy shield to help him, Akie lost her patience. Roughly, she grabbed the other student under the armpits and hauled him upwards. Resisting the urge to do something stupid (like plant her foot on his ass and bodily kick him toward the goal), she began to push him forward and run. They were so damn close. She heard Ren yell, then Frid's familiar do the same. Almost there, almost there. Something shattered and there was a sound of pure bloodlust. For half a second, Akie was distracted. She whipped her head over to the sound, only to see a raging Fridtjof. A small snort left her nostrils at the sight of the normally calm kid so utterly pissed off. It sent chills down her back. She got the same feeling when her older sister turned fighting into an art form in and of itself. With Ayako, it had to do with how much control she could fit into that body of hers. With Frid, it was how much he was losing control. There was something fascinating about it.

But talk about no time at all. Akie kept running with with Kiza hoping with all her might that they'd make it before Harald got to them. One hand was curled in a fist around her closed fan. If Harald got close enough, she would have to step away and snap it open to make her wind barrier, throw him off just long enough for Kiza to make it to the sword. If all went well, though, it wouldn't have to come to that.

 

[CasketCase]

Harald's words of praise were drowned out by pain brought by the flat of his blade and the hard ground that currently consoled her face. She must have looked silly, face buried in the dirt once again with her knees keeping her rear in the air, but one can only imagine the horror the sight of that bruise would bring later. Fingertips burrowed deeper into the earth, clawing first with pain, followed by anger once the former eventually subsided into dull throbbing.

The poison has weakened him. Can you not hear the others? Go and let him feel true pain!

The words of Rajaniv flowed like a soothing salve, easing her pain while stirring up darker thoughts. Reaching to her side, she seized her fallen weapon and pushed herself up onto her feet. Seeking out her instructor, her grip on the macuahuitl's hilt tightened once he came into view, fighting off the others in a warpath towards Kiza.

Kiza. He had been playing his flute all throughout this ordeal, but it was only now she could hear it's notes. No, perhaps she had been able to all this time, but only now appreciated it. The lingering tune calmed her, gently brushing away the bitter anger that Rajaniv had let brew within her. Once again, Kiza's kindness had helped her and now he needed her. They needed to finish this evaluation now, a thought shared by more than she, if Ren's bellow was an indication.

Taking in a breath, she tapped into the power of her familiar, and with her exhale, felt it flowing through her core and limbs with prickly sensation. Time seemed to slow down with the enhancement of her senses, and with it she would watch the others around Harald and pick the moment she struck. That time came when
Harald staggered before Fridtjof, who fought a similar battle much alike her own when it came to their familiars. Plunging herself back into the fray, she would exploit the opening Frid made.

With the unnatural speed given by her familiar, she reached the instructor in little time, her weapon reared back in anticipation of the strike. She swung noticeably early, her weapon barely within Harald's arm range, yet she continued the momentum, turning a full revolution and turning what was once a full frontal assault into an attack from behind. Fighting against the urge to let the macuahuitl's teeth rend flesh, she turned her wrist, allowing the lacquered wood of the weapon's flat slap across Harald's rear and lower back. Even if her attack didn't make contact, at least the intention that she aimed to pay her instructor back would not be lost.

 

[Darog]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Zalen staggered back from the rather hefty headbutt from his mentor. The words followed suit, cutting through Zalen's pride and his short fuse. Amari knew the instance that Harald moked him back would make her partner angry, to say the least. Zalen gripped his fists tight, his blood raging, pumping through his body. His face twisted from shock, to frustration to flatout fury. He stomped the ground beneath, getting a firm foot on the dirt. "Zalen? This is only an evaluation, you shouldn't let those words sting you! You said them first!" She reasoned, but Zalen motioned his hands forward. "Amari, it's time to use the Sun Flare Wave." As the words escaped his mouth, Amari could only look on worried.[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Amari knew that his body had not yet gotten used to the energy usage of this rather powerful ability.She knew she could at least try to reason with him. "Everyone else is helping Kiza get to that point! We should hold Harald back and keep him in one place with the Palm style." Amari suggested, but all she could hear was the sound of energy pouring forward, creating an aura around Zalen. "No, I must prove that I'm strong, nobody mocks me." Amari couldn't understand. Harald reacted accordingly due to Zalen's overconfidence, and she warned him about being this previously and this was doubly so against a lecturer. "Zalen, if you use this technique at full power, you will burn out, you could potentially hurt your team, and I'm sure Harald will NOT be forgiving if someone is grievously hurt."[/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]At this point, Zalen's energy was pooling out, the aura stronger than ever, as he then slowly approached Harald, entering the fray once more. He was silent to Amari's reasoning, his pace quickened as he then dashed forward. The energy pooling into his palms. "I need to do this, Amari" was the only thing he said. "But...at least don't go full power, please?" she asked as Zalen nodded in response. [/BCOLOR][BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent][/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]His dash had turned to a sprint, hammering his feet into the dirt ground beneath him, ready to give one final strike at Harald. "Ready, Sir?!" he shouted at the top of his lungs as he then leapt into the air like a crazed gazelle. "SUN FLARE WAVE!" He bellowed out, thrusting both palms towards the direction of Harald himself. He made sure to only use half of the energy; enough to sting Harald at least if it connected. The waved launched out, moving downwards towards the skilled swordsman like an approaching small meterorite of scorching sunlight.[/BCOLOR]

 

[Kazama]

Ghrem didn't expect his wall to stand against Harald for too long. That man moved through students like a fish through water--a very violent, sword-toting fish. Everything happened quickly, but due to a group effort between him, Xin, and Wei, they were able to get Kiza past the instructor and box him in. Ghrem stood between Harald, and Kiza's retreat, his shield raised. Of course, he didn't think he could best the instructor if it was just the two of them, but it wasn't. Everyone threw themselves at the man like they were water trying to douse a fire. Harald was slowing, but he wasn't stopped. Ghrem would have to make sure that he went no further. That was a daunting proposition. He could do it, though. Maybe.

So, it might have been a bit too reactionary when Ghrem threw his shield up to block Wei's incoming form. The student smacked into it and landed on the ground. "Sorry," Ghrem said. He might not have been totally sorry. Wei was annoying on his best days.

Aleesa scraped herself off the Pit floor and separated her face from the rocky ground. She turned just in time to see Harald throw about half the class roster in a dozen different directions. She was in the process of getting back on her feet when that Frid guy went into some kind of transformation. She didn't know him too well, but she knew enough to notice that he was always mad. Now he was just more mad than usual. She shook off the impact and readied herself for another go. She would have thrown herself with no further plan than to extend her fist and try to make it slam into Harald when the glint of Ghrem's shield caught her eye. He was standing opposite to Harald relative to her. Ghrem, Harald, and Aleesa formed a line with Harald in the center of it. She grinned and balled up her fist.

"Ghrem!!!" she shouted, "ULTRA FIST LAUNCH PAD-" That was supposed to have been a super cool, super secret attack name, or at least half of it. Ghrem was supposed to shout the other half. Aleesa was bad with names, but insisted on them.

She burst forward, running towards Harald and readying another punch. Red, hot energy balled up around her fist and she leapt forward towards Harald… but she leapt just a little too high. And that was the point. That first attack was a feint, called out and telegraphed specifically to get their opponent to turn their back on Ghrem just for the attack to soar over their head. As soon as she flew over, she adjusted herself in order to align the bottoms of her feet with Ghrem's shield.

Miso clicked her teeth in amusement as Wei smacked against Ghrem's shield. Harald was certainly a difficult opponent under ideal circumstances - the fact that everyone had broken away to individually fight against their teacher made it all the worse. As Kiza began making a bid for the finish line, she took a few steps out from behind Ghrem and began to keep a closer eye on Harald - if the man moved, she would…

But then she heard Aleesa - her shout reminded her that the two actually had come up with a move combining their abilities - it had some ridiculous name that she couldn't remember right now, but she could recall that the target actually needed to stay in the right position to be hit by the attack. That was something she could do. Twirling her spear gracefully, she let out a loud hiss to catch Harald's attention, and, without hesitation, flung the icy weapon directly at his chest. The poison would hopefully slow him down to the point that he would have to block, rather than dodge away from the spear - giving her and Aleesa time for a follow-up attack.

As Aleesa's feet connected with his shield, he crouched into it a bit and pushed forward, shooting her off of it. "Of sparkling earthy amazing-ness," Ghrem said deadpanned as he launched her back towards Harald.

Ghrem concentrated, his head hurting from the abuse of his magic. A wall formed on the other side of Harald, away from the other students who were currently crowding him. The idea was that Aleesa's punch would send him into the wall. Ghrem didn't hold his breath that the move would work, but maybe they'd get an A for effort. Or maybe Aleesa would get another sword to her face. It was really anyone's game.

Miso dashed immediately after her spear, drawing her cutlass from its sheath at her side and sprinting as fast as she could to catch him unaware. Instead of simply using the charge's momentum for a thrust, she used her burst of speed to flash past Harald before planting her foot, swinging her arm around, and using the velocity from her charge to hurl her second weapon at his back, directly at where his heart should be. It was a rough move - she could feel her ankle catch and twist from the speed and sudden stop. She had probably dislocated the thing, and the move caused her to spin out and trip onto the ground, roughly rolling a few meters before coming to a painful stop. But she had done her job, attacking him twice from either side, keeping him both distracted and in the line of Aleesa's mega punch.

Aleesa flew towards Harald a second time, propelled by Ghrem's shield. He'd forgotten to shout the second part of the move's name with the kind of gusto it deserved. Maybe he forgot. She'd write it down somewhere for him later. For now, she put more into this attack than the last one, bringing her powered-up fist back as she barreled towards Harald.

She was intensely focused on the target. The man had been forced to block two attacks from Miso and the poison was working against him. Add to that the fact that a wall had been erected behind him, and the only other direction was facing down the barrel of a human cannon. It was great, what you can do with a few simple powers and a little bit of cleverness.

Aleesa flew towards him, fully intending to use her punch to send Harald right into Ghrem's wall… and maybe even straight through it.

 

[Vinn]

Having been tangled in her own web of wires, Xin growled in frustration. She resisted the urge to struggle, as moving would only sink them deeper into her skin. Xin was almost embarrassed, and quietly nodded in thanks as Ruiha yanked the sword out to set her free. One after another, Harald continued to spear through all their tactics. But their efforts were gradually scraping away at him, and the chinks in his armor were not about to go unnoticed.

In union, everyone geared towards the finale, closing in on the old man. Xin saw a glimpse of Kiza stuffed under Akie's arms, running towards the destination. It relieved her to know the target wasn't on his own. Now that his flute stopped playing, she realized what feared her the most was if Kiza made no move. Although it failed her once, Xin collected her wires. She knew from the glint of Aleesa's eyes and from the positioning of her and Ghrem that- "ULTRA FIST LAUNCH PAD-"
Yes. There it was. Now she too had to move quick.

Xin was no longer under the scope of vision as she burst towards Harald. Miso had just thrown her icy spear, and Xin silently thanked the gods that it hadn't hit her. Xin looped her wires, positioning them as Miso pursued her second attack as distraction. Harald was aligned for Aleesa's hit; however that sword and his frightening composition was nothing to take for granted. Knotting her fingers together, Xin tugged at her crafted work. Like a net tightly woven against his skin, Xin attempted in securing Harald's position against the wall. If successful, the wires would yank at Harald's grip on his sword. She knew it wouldn't be enough to disarm him, but she hoped it would lessen the chance of Harald retaliating.