[BCOLOR=transparent]The remainder of the night was left for the much needed bath and rest that each student desired. In regards to the questions that were brought to light, the twins simply shrugged while Lillian took the liberty of providing answers.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]"There has been many events outside of our expectations, Cheire.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Nonetheless, answers shall come tomorrow.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]For now, it is rest that we all need in preparation for the trails of your training."[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]With the declaration, Lillian performed a quick bow in tandem with the cursty of the twins before both Tarocchi faded from the room. In doing so, their card was left behind while their physical form returned to their realm for rest. Assuming everyone else soon followed in suit, the night was bound to be enjoyable at least until the rude awakening of the next morning. The sudden sound of clanging metal exploded throughout the room from a particular individual who stood in a doorway that failed to exist the previous night. The individual was a female figure topped with long white hair and dressed in a ragged grey robe. Most notable were the heavily chipped swords that she held in each hand and the single grey wing which drooped along the left side of her body. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]"Follow with haste."[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]The girl gave no time for any preparation as she stormed from the room and down a series of maze-like hallways which led to the group's inevitable destination. Assuming everyone managed to follow, the group was met with an open courtyard filled with various equipment meant for training. Straw dummies, racks of weapons, and various obstacles were a few of the objects which existed in the area; however, more important was the single figure who sat on a wooden stump and shuffled a deck of cards in his hands.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Kaede awoke at the sound of the individual's arrival, sweeping back the covers of the sheets and getting on her feet quickly. Years of a strict exercise routine had trained her to get up quickly with no regret. The figure's appearance gave her no pause, after everything the group had been through an armed alarm clock wasn't that surprising. Ducking into the washroom she quickly changed back into her own clothing. She checked Lillian's card was still in her pocket before following the girl, assuming the others would rouse themselves quickly enough.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Despite the comfortable night's sleep she wasn't in a good mood. The Tarrochi's actions last night had been evasive, claiming ignorance yet promising answers at the same time. They hadn't even bothered to answer the most basic of questions she had asked. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Emerging from the maze of passages it wasn't hard to guess what their day was going to be like. It was like they'd walked into a video game tutorial level. Not being particularly inclined to ask more pointless questions she waited in silence for the shuffling figure or her companions to sleep and examined the area in more detail.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Iphie too was a light sleeper. Rising alongside Kaede at the new presence, she was not as quick to rise as her more athletic companion, taking several moments to blink and rub her eyes before casting aside her sheets and standing with a yawn. Giving a glance at the white-haired girl and her swords, she yawned again, searching for her freshly laundered clothes. Momentarily disoriented by the unfamiliar surroundings, after a couple seconds, she found her clothes and the remainder of her belongings. Sparing little care, she dressed where she stood. Like Kaede, her mood was not much better than foul; the events of the past couple of days had left a sour taste in her mouth.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Unhappy with the haste the sword-bearing girl commanded, Iphigenia took a helping of leftover bread from last night before reluctantly and tiredly following the unwelcome girl. The path ended in a medieval courtyard adorned with old wooden combat equipment. Her eyes first fell on the swords, before finally resting upon the figure in the center of the open space, wordlessly appraising his features and movements with yet another yawn.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Kent, already lethargic from the previous night's lack of rest, was not quite as hasty as his female roommates in rising. Still, having caught a sleepy glance of the woman who had given them their wake-up call, Kent made sure to to throw the covers and cast his feet over the edge of his bed after only a few more minutes of rest. Rubbing his eyes of any last sleepiness -- all the while trying not to peep at Iphie as she changed -- Kent gave a yawn. At least after the previous night of no sleep, he had been able to grab a cup of coffee before class.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Having changed as well, he proceeded to follow to the training area which he presumed to be the location of their boot camp. Seeing all the combat related equipment scattered about, Kent drew his stashed card and traced the pattern to summon Temperance, expecting them to have some part in today's activities.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]"No no."[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]In an instant, several cards were snapped in Kent's direction where they began orbiting around his hands and the card of Temperance. Even with their summon, the twins never appeared after which the glow of the card's pattern simply faded into nothing. Immediately following his action, Justice hopped onto his feet with a casual wave towards the group of students who arrived in the courtyard.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]"It seems everyone is here.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Now, I assume there are many questions that need to be addressed, but rather than drone over countless topics concerning a lifetime of knowledge, let us narrow our queries.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]What exactly do you desire?...One question per Medium or Candidate, please."[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Iphigenia was the first to speak up, asking a general question. She was particularly interested in the familiars the others seemed to be able to control, but her pragmatic inquiries would come first. "...Yes. Please explain what a Medium, Candidate, and Tarocchi are. I have an understanding of the latter now, but I'd like one nonetheless."[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]The Tarrochi before her might've been the nicest one they'd met so far but Kaede still wasn't too pleased with the whole situation. "Can we get a copy of the tarocchi rulebook? Or at least a brief list of all the laws we're not allowed to break, like acting in self defence, before we get tried again?"[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Kent was slightly disappointed to have the comforting presence of his two companions denied from him, enough that it stalled his own question until the two ladies had asked theirs. "Why didn't you tell me there were rules in our...dream?"[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Laughter was the initial response to the questions that were asked. In doing so, a sheepish smile soon encompassed Justice's face as he awkwardly began rubbing the top of his head.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]"Events outside of our prediction determined the past few days.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]From the perspective of the Court, you were seen as a rogue unit rather than one enacting self-defense. Of course, I intend no misjustice to befall your identities; however, until the investigation is complete, you will be regarded with suspicion.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]This is why it is of utmost importance that I prepare you for your future.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Iphigenia, you will study under me while the others will be trained by my assistant. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]However before we split, allow me to explain a quick summary of how we came to be."[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Justice paused to catch his breath and to recollect the memories of a time long past. Several moments passed in silence until he finally began to speak in a somewhat somber tone.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]"The Tarocchi were once human.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]We are a transcendent race born from the untimely death of potential that once existed upon earth. There are others likes us; failures who lost their way in regards to the ultimate goal of our kind. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Humans are not capable of ruling themselves. This has been proven time after time.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Thus, it is through our guidance that we have chosen individuals such as yourself. Individuals whom we deem candidates for our power. Candidates who will use their gifts to bring forth the necessary change that your world requires.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]At first, this might seem unfair; as if you have no choice in choosing your destiny; however, ultimately, this is the greatest honor that your kind can achieve. Nothing shall ever surpass the potential fulfillment you have been granted.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]More will be unveiled as time progresses. For now, let us attend to the training I have promised."[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]~~~ Iphegenia ~~~[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]With nothing more to say, Justice proceeded to beckon Iphie towards one side of the courtyard. It was a shaded area under the nearest tree where a small wooden slab existed amongst parchment, quill, and ink. After seating himself against the trunk, he beckoned Iphie to follow in suit before speaking with an inquiry of her current disposition.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]"Tell me, dear child.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]What do you feel the Tarocchi expect of you?[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]You have the Sigil of the Court; you have the experiences of the trial.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]What is it you feel we expect of a Candidate?[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]What is it you feel we expect of the Mediums who are dependant upon your leadership?"[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]The small display of humility, although modest, was a reassurance for Iphigenia. She appreciated the brief explanation on tarocchi, although the remainder of his words left her with more questions than she had arrived with. And she had a lot of questions. At Justice's gesture, she followed the white-haired tarocchi to a nearby tree with broad foliage. Glancing over the paper and ink, she took a seat on the grass, folding her legs to her side. It seemed that he had his own bank of questions for Iphigenia.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]She was slow to respond, putting care behind each of her words. "Those are quite esoteric questions. If I understand the structure of things correctly, our group of seven--" Iphie paused, as if to correct herself, but continued, "is not unalike a military unit given your prior description. Assuming I am correct in my assumption that a 'Candidate' is the equivalent of the officer of every such group, I would believe all that are involved would have an expectation of a Candidate to lead, exercising responsibility and discretion in doing so."[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Iphigenia looked down momentarily, producing the cloth card she had received in the field trip several days ago. Feeling the grains of the card, she looked at the inkwell beside her before returning her gaze to Justice. "I assume by Mediums you refer to Kaede and Kent who seem to share a bond with tarocchi. I would think you would expect the same of them. Conduct. Responsibility… Perhaps restraint." She ran her hand through her hair. "That's what I feel. Without more information, I can't help but to feel I'm answering incorrectly."[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]For the duration of Iphie's explanation, Justice keenly listened; however, it was at her conclusion that he began lightly chuckling in response to her logic. While doing so, he quickly raised a hand in a gesture meant to convey that he meant no ridicule, but rather, found her answer amusing.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]"It is a logical outcome to conclude as you have. Nonetheless, as you believe, your answer is not correct. Though I suppose in a sense you have the fundamental understanding of what your position entails. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Did you know that nearly 150,000 humans die across the world per day. This of course totals to tens of millions of deaths per year that passes by. If you recall my explanation that a Tarocchi is born from the death of unfulfilled potential, then surely it is a logical conclusion, that of those millions, thousands must have the qualifications to be reborn again. Yet from your experience in the court, there are only twenty-one thrones which define the Tarocchi. Of course, this does not mean that our entire society consists of twenty-one beings. Countless youth, the minor arcana, develop themselves in hopes of one day achieving the pinnacle best suited to their talents and beliefs. Like yourself, they are candidates, and together you shall work in unison to reach each other's goals."[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]After a short moment to let his explanation sink in, Justice extended one of his hands towards Iphie; an action which caused the card in her hand to shoot across the distance and place itself, face-up, onto his palm. With a quick inspection of its illustration, the man performed a quick nod before continuing with his overall lesson.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]"Unlike the cards your peers have utilized, this is not a collection of power, but rather, a sigil which signifies the Candidate you have been chosen for. Some may be a Candidate of the Magician; others may be the Candidate of Judgement; however, you my child, you are the Candidate of the Empress. Fate has gifted you with the potential to rule; you on the Earth and your Arcana in our realm. It is a great honour, yet one that comes with lofty expectations for yourself.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]As a Candidate of the Empress, there are two main functions you must achieve. First is the development of your Arcana; next is the management of your Sect. In both cases, it is your responsibility to ensure they remain within the bounds of our regulations; all while, ensuring your Arcana becomes one worthy of the throne. [/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]All infractions and successes will be directly reported to the current Empress, and any faults will be solely placed upon you and your Arcana's head. Absconding from the race is of course an option; however, in doing so, the chances of your personal success are sorely limited. Fate has chosen you for a position of power. Do you choose to accept it, or rather you let it slip from your fingers?"[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]~~~ Kent and Kaede ~~~[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]With Justice now attending to Iphie, the girl from before returned to the courtyard where she focused her attention on the remaining pair. After giving both Kaede and Kent a visual inspection, she heavily sighed before sheathing both swords against the leather belt along her waist. In an abnormally swift motion, the girl lunged forward and nimbly retrieved the card from Kaede's pocket and the one in Kent's hand. Without any hesitation, she proceeded to rip both cloths in half which caused one to evaporate into a puff of smoke and the other to wither into crumbled ash. For the Mediums, a sudden emptiness would have filled their body as if a vital connection had been suddenly severed.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]"You depend on your Tarocchi's deck far too much.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Feel them...Envelop them...Discover their power within yourself.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]For each minute that you remain disconnected, slowly your bond will crumble and break.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]After several hours, you will no longer be Mediums after which my sword will reach your neck."[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Kaede found herself a bit warmed by Justice's willing admission of the Court's error and his embarrassed response. It would be best to view him as an ally as he was taking their side consistently. This decision quickly fell onto steady ground however, at his assistant's 'training', which involved sending their pupils into a depressed state and threatening to kill them. She glanced over at Kent, he'd been a medium a bit longer than her, "Any tips?" she asked him, though it wasn't impossible she was asking the assistant as well.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]If no help was forthcoming she'd try it on her own. She closed her eyes and focused on the emptiness that she now felt. It was an unpleasant place and she wanted to recoil from it, but held her ground. She tried to find something in there, the end of the cut thread leading to Lillian. She brought up her memories of the forest, when she had first met the Tarocchi and the smoke of the marbles had been unlocked.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Kent felt mildly dissatisfied with Justice's words. Through them, he felt there to be only half an explanation of the answers the group searched for, and, perhaps, a great deal of hubris. Humans being unable to care for themselves, yet for the Tarocchi to be able to guide them, being human themselves in all but power, seemed rather contradictory to the man.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Still, with the task at hand and the obvious depression sinking in, there was little time for such thoughts.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Paying heed to Kaede's question, Kent shook his head in the negative. "Though, perhaps…" he himself wasn't quite sure where he was going with this, "we should try to feel like we did in the forest?" While he didn't quite know what this entailed for Kaede, Kent remembered how he had to channel the life around him into further creation. A balance that had to be maintained.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]He found himself seated upon the ground in a meditative pose. Breathing in, then out. Kent tried to feel the presence of every blade of grass, every piece of life perceivable within the area, taking only part into himself. Feeling a focus take root, and a small confidence within himself, Kent tried to will a thorn up from the ground as he had done before; a smaller one, by any comparison, and one more gently brought about.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]As moments passed by without change in either Medium, the one winged girl exhaled another heavy sigh before slapping the cheek of both individuals with the blunt of her blades.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]"No, no, no.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Did I imply for you to attempt your powers?[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Time is ticking, yet you fail to reconnect your lost bonds. What good does willing smoke or thorns do in light of a failed connection? It is not a bond with the power that you hope to achieve. It is a bond with the Tarocchi that you hope to embrace.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Feel them...Understand them....Accept them…[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]Do you fear the unknown so much? Even knowing that life with or without our kind is a journey through the unknown.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]To you, Medium of Temperance, you know the twins as well as anyone, yet you act as if you are strangers. To you, Medium of the Magician...I suppose you have reason to misunderstand, dear Lillian. Though, you are closer than you think."[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]As she spoke, the blades in her hand were sheathed back onto her side; however, her hands soon enveloped both handles as she assumed a combative stance.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]"I ask you this. Do you wish to understand more about the world fate has thrust you into? Or rather you abandon your destiny, and return the machinations of broken normality? Both of you are gifted; both of you have been given a chance to understand...to influence...to better the universe you have been unwillingly born into. What say you all?"[/BCOLOR]