[@PaulHaynek] [@Polaris North] [@Hammerman] [@Enkryption] [@Silverstein] [@The Irish Tree] [@Frozen0Titan] [@Rune_Alchemist] [@FrogRFlowR] 
[@Eviledd1984][hr]

All of the Reavers had completed their respective quests and had settled back in the Tower, some of them doing other things to wind down the evening hours like eat or socialize. After retiring to their rooms, night seemed to quickly pass as the morning sun soon rose back into the air. 

– 

The morning sun shone through the glass stained windows that adorned Eon Tower. The members within had all awakened at the crack of dawn, having made their way to the mess they were all instructed to eat a light breakfast and quickly to boot. The reason for this was stated by Arteus at an earlier date: The inquisitors were arriving this morning. Notably, The one heading the inspection was Grisha Pensworth, a notable inquisitor of some renown who hailed from the district of Grimvine in Flugell. Along with having a reputation of being impatient and formidable, he was clearly not to be trifled with. Accompanying him was an up and coming knight of the Church, Alexandra Haschwalth Vander. Rather young for being a Church official, Alex had a habit of being overtly meticulous and regimented in order to compensate for her lack of experience. Not to say that she herself wasn't naturally gifted, Alex was a bright young warrior with a promising future. Despite her personal circumstances, she carried a sharp mind and a keen eye for detail when it counted. 

Alexandra accompanying Grisha here on the inspection was no surprise, as most inquisitors brought an assistant or two with them during the process. Indeed, it was someone else's presence here that was cause for concern: Tethys Aria Zaerado - A high priest who was well known within all circles of the Holy Church, also called The Holy Seer, her power as a psychic held equals part fame and infamy. One had to wonder why such a high ranking official volunteered to be a part of something as routine as an inspection. 

The young Fae [u]Leon[/u] had already long sensed her arrival as far back as a few days ago, due in part from forging a pack with that cursed grimoire that used to be in her very possession. [u]Damian[/u] may hold some apprehension at the arrival of the Church officials, due to various reasons. In addition, [u]Einer[/u] and especially [u]Hector[/u]would have no doubt heard of these folk. Currently, the three Church reps were riding through the streets of Morgenröte on an elaborate and ornate magitech vehicle. Being easily identifiable as being of the Holy Sect, it got various looks from the citizens of the Magus capital that didn’t follow or even care for the faith. Eventually, the vehicle arrived in front of Eon Tower. The chauffeur had been the first to exit the carriage, and had promptly opened the doors for all the occupants. First was Alexandra, then Grisha, then the last was Tethys. Grisha thanked the man, and bade him wait by the carriage while they conducted business. 

The three individuals stood directly facing the Tower; They were silent for a moment, as if taking in the site. 

[color=Whitesmoke]”This is Irvin’s base of operations?”[/color] Alex said, rather puzzled and unimpressed. [color=Whitesmoke]”I was expecting something more…modern… This tower appears to be utterly archaic and simple in design. Though, I imagine we’ll much more once inside, yes?”[/color] She said, turning to Grisha. 

[color=f9ad81]”Indeed, you’d be correct Vander”[/color] Grisha replied, sighing with a bitter reluctance. He wore a distinct scowl on his face as he slowly took a few steps toward the entrance. [color=f9ad81]”Irvin has always had taste that can only be described as ‘esoteric’, for lack of a better word.”[/color] He stared up at the tower, as if curious about its actual height. [color=f9ad81]”I don’t understand why he needs such a large structure; his ‘staff’ could fit into a moderate conference room. Let’s just get this over with…”[/color] He then turned to their third, Tethys. [color=f9ad81]”Anything we should look out for in particular. Aside from what was previously discussed?”[/color]

[color=blueviolet]”Mainly, all I can say is that something is…off within the walls of Eon.”[/color] She responded coldly. [color=blueviolet]”I sense a faint echo that’s attempting to mask its presence, something in one of the upper rooms. Perhaps a magus that Arteus had entered into their ranks off record? Aside from that I’m mainly concerned about the Fae boy with that old tome, and that Florestas fellow. We also have those local police reports detailing two potentially malfested magus that are members of Eon to consider.”[/color]


[color=f9ad81]”Quite right, with all on our plate, you can perhaps understand my gripes Lady Zaerado.”[/color] Grisha said, with a powerful grimace. [color=f9ad81]”Enough chatter, if it’s all the same to you. Let’s begin.”[/color] 

Instead of knocking, the trio had let themselves in, with Grisha being the one who opened the doors. Upon entering, Alex was somewhat impressed by the architecture that contrasted the rather antiquated outside. Grisha walked through the halls as if he was already familiar with the layout of the building. They seemed to be heading for the conference room. 

–

The reaver team and the tower staff had quickly finished breakfast and were making their way toward the conference as instructed by the Tower’s headmaster, both he and Brun were absent from the group  for the time being. Perhaps making last minute preparations? Regardless, the staff were leading the recruits to their destination. Nadia was oddly silent, a cold expression on her face. Childes and Bellum were bickering among themselves, Kiff was helping Naomi carry some documents and notebooks with the former cracking morbid jokes in order to lighten the mood, and of course Naomi was none too amused. Elaine was acting as the de facto leader of sorts for the group, trying to let everyone towards the conference area as orderly as she could. Sweat beads rolled down her face as she tried to hide her panic at the situation at hand. [color=82ca9d]”Why in the Six's name is the Church’s Holy Seer here?!”[/color] She said frantically, shooting a nasty glance at Kiff and a worried one at Leon, as she had a guess to the answer of her question. 

[color=ec008c]”Oh wow, my first inspection!”[/color] Eve said, who’s excitement made it seem like she saw this as some odd rite of passage. [color=ec008c]”We just gotta play nice for some Church mooks, right? They got nothing on the Star Plasma Witch!”[/color]

[color=6ecff6]”Is that what you’re calling yourself now?”[/color] Lapis said with a bit of gall. [color=6ecff6]”You know, a witch must [i]earn[/i] her title officially from the Association board, not to mention the Church officials aren’t gonna take you seriously if you use a corny name like that.”[/color]

[color=ec008c]”Aw, whadda you know??”[/color] Eve quickly snapped back. 

[color=82ca9d]”[i]Both of you hush![/i]”[/color] Elaine exclaimed at both of the bickering girls. The usual gentleness and warmth in her voice had vanished like it was never there to begin with. The sudden snap caused the two of them to make scared yelps, immediately clamming up and remaining dead silent. The scene caused Ruecian and Xashan to snicker a bit, but a quick glare from Elaine put an end to that. Roze looked at them, and could only shake her head, having enough insight to remain silent. 

Eventually, the group that was composed of the whole of Eon’s members, minus two, had made their way to the doors to the conference room. The recruits already felt the signatures of the three individuals all the way down the hall, but being here in front of it was something else entirely. Elaine breathed in heavily, opening the doors to the room within. The group would see the three inquisitors sitting at the center table, Grisha was seated to the left and Alexandra was seated to the right with Tethys. 

[color=f9ad81]”Ah, Ms. Elaine, it’s been a little while.”[/color] Grisha said, apparently already acquainted with the woman. [color=f9ad81]”I trust you’ve been well?”[/color]

[color=82ca9d]”Yes, Inquisitor Pensworth.”[/color] Elaine said plainly, albeit with a bit of anxiety in her voice. 

[color=f9ad81]”Come now, there’s no need to act so formal, Grisha will suffice. This is, after all, a routine inspection. Well, mostly.”[/color] He said, glancing at Tethys for a moment, who was quietly sipping tea. She did eye Leon, along with the cursed tome he was always carrying on his person since making a pact with it. 

Grisha began turning his attention to the others in the group, first taking notice of the other staff members. Childes, Bellum, Nadia, Kiff, Naomi, and Rana. They all stood side by side, each of them reacting to the gaze of the Inquisitors in different ways. Old Man Childes picked some wax out of his ears and flicked it off to the side, and made no gesture of greeting or showing of respect. Bellum looked at him with disgust, but quickly turned and waved at the officials. Nadia made a polite bow, her face oddly neutral but her eyes denoted a bit of rancor. Kiff, unprofessional as always, had his shirt untucked and held a hand in his pocket. He waved with the other. Naomi attempted to bow as well, struggling to keep her books and documents from falling on the floor. Rana stood straight at attention, her hands clasped and held to her waist, making a professional bow at the inquisitors. Grisha looked at them all, raising a brow as he gave them all the once over. Alexandra also adopted a puzzled look at the staff members present before them, honestly looking a bit underwhelmed. 

[color=f9ad81]”You all must make up the administrative office for the Tower.”[/color] Grisha said. [color=f9ad81]”My name is Grisha Pensworth of Grimvine, state official of the Royal Flugell court and will be the one conducting the inspection of your base of operations today. The two ladies I have with me are here serving as my assistant and as an advisor, respectively,  for this process.”[/color] He said, gesturing at Alexandra then Tethys. 

[color=Whitesmoke]”Good Morning, my name is Alexandra Haschwalth Vander, knight of the Holy Church also from the Grimvine district. It’s nice to meet you all.”[/color] Alex said. 

Compared to her compatriots, Tethys held a serene and perhaps even lax air around her. Setting down her tea, she finally gazed at the Eon staff, making note of each of their appearances. [color=blueviolet]”Greetings. My name is Tethys Aria Zaerado, High Priestess of the Holy Church and the acting Seer for the Royal Court. I will mainly be acting as an observer here, so don’t pay me too much mind”[/color] She said, eyeing Leon with a peculiar gaze. As the seer looked upon the Fae boy, a thick tension began to fill the room. Grisha adjusted his throat, noticing that things were about to be derailed. 

[color=f9ad81]”You there, I don’t recognize you, are you a new member of the staff?”[/color] Grisha said, addressing Rana. She maintained a professional poise and responded formally to him.

[color=0076a3]”You are correct, Inquisitor Pensworth”[/color] Rana responded. [color=0076a3]”My name is Rana Schuellen, I recently joined the Tower as its Administrative Secretary and Operations Scheduler. It’s a pleasure to meet such esteemed guests.”[/color] She was used to such regimented proceedings. Grisha nodded to her introduction, but didn’t say anything to her after that. Instead he addressed the group as a whole. 

[color=f9ad81]”In addition to most of the staff members, I’m also already acquainted with the members of your veteran reavers. Xashan Vhastia, Rozemyne Levina, and although his sister is actually a newcomer, I’m also acquainted with both of the Valeniquen siblings.”[/color] 

Eve turned to her two friends with a look of surprise on her face, wondering why an esteemed official from an entity who was effectively the political enemy of the Magus Society. Ruecian and Lapis winced somewhat, but said nothing in response. 

[color=f9ad81]”That aside, why do we start having the Tower’s new recruits introduce themselves.”[/color] Grisha said, now addressing all of the new members of Eon’s reaver team currently present. [color=f9ad81]”Although with that latest arrival coming down the hall.”[/color] 

Grisha was referring to Asterope, the Thunder Witch, who mana he was able to feel even while sitting in this room. She had to leave the Tower for her own personal reasons, but she has now returned. As she made her way to the conference room, the large double doors began to gently swing open as she joined her companions for the inspection. [hr][h3]From the Night Prior[/h3]

Collab with [@Silverstein]
[hider=Vermillion Echoes]
A scorching memory. 

A dangerous beast cloaked in flame walks amongst land, wielding its giant flaming sword, and leads an army of renegades who blindly worship him as if he was their savior. Its massive blade burns with hellfire equal to its fangs. Its scales forged in the depths of a volcano. 

Its heat is so intense it can melt even the thickest icy terrains and boils down the entire sea, leaving it completely dry like the desert.

This creature is the embodiment of the sun. A ball of flame hovering above everything, devouring everything under its light, claiming what's his. A walking calamity. A kin murderer. An unquenchable flame that burns everything it touches to cinders.

I've never met anyone who has outsmarted the Sun itself. Let alone escape its reach.
 
A premonition suddenly flashes before Leon, looking at the blue-haired girl while munching on his meal. 

What does this even mean? Does it have to do with Lapis being the sea and her brother, Ruecian being the ice? 

[color=00aeef]”[i]Damn, I hate having these visions. It leaves more questions than actual answers, really. 

Still, I can't just keep this grim prophecy all to myself. Not what happened to my clan who ignored the seer's warning. 

If there's a chance to save other people by telling them about their future. maybe just maybe I could change the course of this event.[/i][/color]

[b]"How very noble for a cutthroat. Involving yourself with other people's undoing even if it costs you your life. Heh, So foolish, just like my previous creator." [/b]The grimoire mockingly said in his head.

[b]"Tread lightly my little fae harbinger, or I might find a new host from the path you're choosing"[/b]

[color=00aeef]"...."[/color]

~~

As they feasted on the Kitchen wiz's gourmet, The fae rogue couldn't help but to stop and stare at Evelyn and Lapis and started to mumble about the prophecy as if he was in a trance. Leon was so engrossed in what this riddle meant.

[color=00aeef]"The sun will dry up the sea and thaw the freezing snow," [/color] Leon audibly said after finishing his drink. Rapidly blinking his tired eyes to his surprise as if he shouldn't say what he was thinking in front of the others.

[color=00aeef] "Sorry, slip of the tongue, you must think I'm weird but I have the strangest vision about you and your brother."[/color] Leon said in a bashful manner to the girls. Embarrassed to spout out such enigmatic jargon.

[color=00aeef]"In any case have you considered having me as your secret bodyguard Mrs. Lapis? I'm not saying that you're not capable of defending yourself but I feel there is something out there to get you" [/color] Leon warned Lapis.

[color=00aeef]"Now, I'm not trying to scare you but my clairvoyance told me you will be hunted down by a malicious yet cunning fiery creature wielding a giant blade, whose scales is like the molten flame. Of course, I could be wrong but from what I've seen, it's far worse than I'm telling you."[/color] The fae said with a dire look on his face.

[color=ec008c]"Ugghh.. Wayyy to ruin our appetite fae boy, you and your weird jokes. I told you he's weird Laps. I swear you have the worst comedic timing." [/color] Evelyn slams the table with an annoyed look on her face, comically pointing and waving a piece of a drumstick at Leon's face as if she was threatening him.

[color=00aeef]"I wish it was, but the vision of what I saw was incredibly vivid even for me.”[/color] Leon remains serious even with the star witch’s childish outburst.

[color=00aeef]“Do you recall anyone who fits the descriptions of what I've just said?"[/color] Leon straightforwardly asked the Azure esper while chugging down another drink.

Lapis stared at Leon with wide eyes for a moment, remaining eerily silent for a moment. [color=ec008c]”Lapis? Everything OK?”[/color] Eve asked, growing concerned for her friend. 

[color=6ecff6]”You…you’re talking about him…”[/color] Lapis finally said, breaking her earlier silence. [color=6ecff6]”No…I don’t want to remember! Why, why would you know about…”[/color] Her eyes had become bloodshot at that moment. 

[color=6ecff6]”You’re an Esper like me, aren’t you? You should understand the importance of a person’s inner thoughts! I don’t want to remember him! I don’t want to remember Kinnich!!”[/color] At this point, Lapis had tears dripping down her eyes. Eve, stunned by her friend’s bewilderment, couldn’t muster up the gall to speak. 


[color=ec008c]”"What have you done you insensitive jerk!?"[/color] Eve turned her attention and scolded Leon. She and her familiar started comforting her while Leon just sat there, questions unanswered, and was like a deer in headlights. Still processing what just happened. 

[b]"HAHAHA.. this is quite the show, you truly bring absolute misery to those people around you. bringing her traumatic past and her unavoidable future. Well done my little harbinger."[/b] The grimoire mocks the Fae in his head. 

[color=00aeef]"Not helping, grimy..."[/color] Leon muttered under his breath. 

Maybe the direct approach isn't the best course for telling her fate, after all, she is still young and emotionally fragile. Perhaps I should delve into her mind and her familiar to shed some light on who this 'Kinnich' is. I never communed with the spirits before let alone diving into one's core memories. Leon deeply sighed, preparing to use the grimoire's powers once again.

Leon's eyes started to glow and began to telepathically link Lapis and her tiny octopus friend, Hachigan together. Diving deep into the thoughts of the blue-haired witch.

He enters Lapis's mind and into the rabbit hole of memories. He finds himself teleported and swimming in the middle of a vast beautiful underwater utopia. Her inner thoughts are represented as this lively and colorful sea filled with marine life inhabiting it.

The knife ear fae can see an abundance of memories playing in the background like movies playing on repeat. From Lapis's childhood until her time as a reaver. 

From there, Leon swam and followed the tiny octopi which led him into the deepest part of the ocean. 

The turmoil began to brew as Leon noticed the temperature suddenly rose drastically. It must be close.

[color=00aeef]"So this is where you store the memories of this so-called, Kinnich."[/color] Leon sees a dark cave with a barrier prohibiting anyone from entering.

[color=00aeef]"Unravel and Unlock the mind. Dissolve the mysteries of the earth: Elucidation!"[/color] Leon reaches out his arm and casts an advanced esper technique that lets its user infiltrate the inner thoughts of others, no matter how restricted it is.

[color=00aeef]"Sorry for trespassing into your past trauma, Ms. Lapis. But this is for your own good. You gotta face your fears eventually."[/color] Leon and Lapis's sea-fearing octopi traverse into the underwater cavern hoping to find answers about the sun beast.

Hachigan chirped with severity as both he and Leon delved deeper in the recesses of Lapis’s mental space. The cave that stored her most repressed memories resembled more so a volcano than anything, riddled with large cracks that spewed eruptions of vermillion molten rock. With his psionic abilities, it wasn’t too difficult for Leon to cut through the barrier that blocked the entrance to the cavern. Hachigan hugged Leon’s arm tightly as they made their way deeper into the cave; Their trek was made more and more uncomfortable due to the steadily increasing temperature. 

Eventually, Leon would hear a baleful voice ring out. [color=darkorange]”[i]Lassie, what’re ya waiting for? He’s got no fight left in ‘em.[/i]”[/color] Leon would look to where the voice came from, and gaze upon a scene of Kinnich standing with an apparently younger Lapis. More alarmingly, he would see a beaten and battered man limping on the ground in front of them. 

[color=6ecff6]”B-but, Uncle Kinni…”[/color] The younger Lapis whimpered, tears starting to roll down her eyes. 

[color=darkorange]”[i]But what?[/i]”[/color] He boomed. [color=darkorange]”[i]Get this over with, kiddo.[/i]”[/color]

[color=6ecff6]”[i]He, he didn’t do anything wrong…[/i]”[/color] While standing over the beaten man, Lapis held an ice dagger in her hand, which she was reluctantly brandishing over him. 

[b]”P-please, don’t hurt me!”[/b] Pleaded the man. Both the man and Lapis were filled with dread and fear. A past version of Hachigan was in the vision as well, floating at Lapis’s side while he tried to comfort her. 

Taking advantage of Lapis’s hesitation, the man attempted to make a break for it. He quickly got up and tried to run as fast as his damaged body would carry him. He didn’t get very far though…

Lapis’s face lit up with vivid horror as the vicinity with a bright scarlett hue, which was accompanied by the agonized screams of the man. His body was immediately ignited, and Lapis watched as his charred corpse plopped to the ground. The smell of his cooked flesh made her sick to her stomach. 

[color=6ecff6]”[i]Uncle Kinni…y-you, you killed th-”[/i][/color] Lapis was cut short, as she received a violent strike from Kinnich, sending her tumbling to the ground. 

[color=darkorange]”[i]I told you to kill that hairless monkey.[/i]”[/color] He said with irritation in his voice. [color=darkorange]”[i]Ya ain’t gonna get far acting all soft-like, lassie![/i]”[/color]

Lapis attempted to get up, still whimpering.

[color=00aeef]"Uncle!? So this cruel monster is related to the Reaver siblings?"[/color] Leon gritted his teeth after this inhumane execution and the Sun beast’s cruelty against young Lapis. If this wasn’t just a memory, Leon would brandish his dagger, strike from the shadows and intervene without any hesitation. 

If Leon recalls correctly, some Beluas have a notorious reputation for being the most violent race of them all due to their primal tie-ins with their animalistic nature. The esper fae have first-hand witnessed how vicious they are in this scenario. A monster teaching a child how to be a killer. I have no words. That's just messed up.

[color=00aeef]"This is just the tip of the iceberg. let's get going, eights (Hachigan). The flames from my foresight are more refined than what Kinnich displayed in his early years." [/color] Leon nodded and began to swim deeper into the mental space of the azure esper's miserable childhood past.

The wayward Fae would happen upon another vision as he ventured further into Lapis’s unpleasant memories. It was another sight of Kinnich with his niece. This time, though, they were sitting on some rocks and no human victims were present. 

[color=darkorange]”[i]Lapis.[/i]”[/color] Kinnich said. [color=darkorange]”[i]Do ya know why it is I often send yar brother out apart from ya?[/i]”[/color]

[color=6ecff6]”[i]B-because I’m…weak and would just get in the way?[/i]”[/color] Said the younger Lapis. 

[color=darkorange]”[i]You’d be right, lassie.[/i]”[/color] He responded. [color=darkorange]”[i]That, and I’m trying to wean ya off of always thinking someone’s gonna save yer arse when death decides to play. If I were to kill Ruecian, that’d put you between a rock and a shitty place, wouldn’t ya concur lassie?[/i]”[/color]

Lapis’s face lit up in fright at her uncle’s statement. 

[color=6ecff6]”[i]Y-you would kill Big Brother, Uncle?![/i]”[/color]

[color=darkorange]”[i]That’s not the point, nitwit!![/i]”[/color] He boomed. 

Well, this is kind of a tender moment. Teaching your kin to be reliable and able stand up on their own two feet.  Perhaps there are some redeemable qualities to him just yet.

Of course, Being the skeptic that he is, The fae esper can see and sense the utter horseshit Kinnich is spewing under his molten tongue.

I doubt this monster is capable of affection in his family. Underneath this life lesson teaching lies a vile ulterior motive.

From my observation, He's a manipulative bastard who likes to keep the Belua siblings under his thumb.

He wasn't raising his nephew and niece to be dependable. He was training them as his weapon. This cunning beast saw some potential in them. That's why he hasn't offed or disowned them just yet.

[color=00aeef]"Eh, I'm not buying it. let's go deeper."[/color] Leon dismissively went past this vision and continues to trek down memory lane. Finding the root of why Lapis doesn't want to remember this monster despite their bond together. 

Effectively swimming through the murky sea of Lapis’s thoughts, Leon would bear witness to yet another unsavory scene: this time it depicted Kinnich along with the siblings together. Before the scene fully materialized, he would hear a distinct sounding of impact - the kind that a fist made when it struck flesh. With the memory now in full view, the Fae would bear witness to the source of the disquieting pounding: Kinnich was punching a young Ruecian, the former being more than twice the young Belua’s size, with a savage fury that surpassed what he had displayed while he trained Lapis. She herself was writhed with fear and concern for her brother. 

Kinnich would call this simple training, but most individuals with any shred of humanity could immediately tell that this was simply an act of cruelty. The ground was littered with bits and small splatters of Ruecian’s blood; his breathing was labored and his face and torso were covered with bruises. Despite this, Ruecian did not back down, he made every attempt to meet Kinnich’s blows with his own. All of which were easily parried, and the young man received a painful counter for each in turn. Eventually, Kinnich sent Ruecian flying with a sudden kick, causing him to crash into a rock face near where Lapis was watching. The impact caused a large crater, where Ruecian layed gasping for breath with blood dripping from his face. 

This didn’t seem to deter Kinnich in the slightest, as he quickly began to advance to his nephew, but not before Lapis stood in front her brother with her arms spread out. 

[color=6ecff6]”[i]Uncle Kinni, that’s enough![/i]”[/color] She shouted, tears rolling down her eyes. Kinnich did indeed stop for a moment, but his menacing expression did not change. [color=6ecff6]”[i]You’re gonna kill him![/i]”[/color]

[color=darkorange]”[i]If the brat succumbs to this, he’ll die sooner or later anyway.[/i]”[/color] Kinnich said coldly. [color=darkorange]”[i]Yer fleeting tears won’t save him either. Now move aside, lassie.[/i]”[/color]

Lapis ignored her uncle’s directive, and stood firm. [color=6ecff6]”[i]No![/i]”[/color] 

Not even a second after, Lapis left a bludgeoning pain hit her ribs, and she was sent flying off to the side, tumbling several times before she finally stopped. Not even bothering to look in her direction, Kinnich then continued back to Ruecian, until he noticed that the boy had vanished. That actually got him to change the expression on his face for a moment, as he honestly didn’t expect the boy to have anything left in him. In the next instant, Ruecian was at his uncle’s face, who barely had time to parry the icy blow that was aimed for his face. A dagger made out of frost had ran through his hand and scratched a bit of his scaly cheek, 

[color=Dodgerblue]”[i]Don’t you…hurt…my sister, you bastard![/i]”[/color] He snapped. 

[color=6ecff6]”[i]Got a second wind in ya, boyo?[/i]”[/color] Kinnich said. He was about to say something else, until Lapis had suddenly appeared and mimicked the same attack her brother did, but aimed for his ribs. Perhaps returning the favor? Regardless, Kinnich used his other arm to block the attack, not caring that the weapon had impaled his hand. 

[color=6ecff6]”[i]Y-you…you really DID mean it, didn’t you? You were serious when you said you’d kill Rue![/i]”[/color] She exclaimed. 

[color=darkorange]”[i]Apparently that’s what it took to get ya little gits to start puttin’ up a fight.[/i]”[/color] He said unremorsefully. Kinnich began to gather heat around his body, the icy weapons the siblings generated began to quickly melt. However, just before it built up too much, the sibling pair unleashed a large torrent of rime, blasting him square in the face. This act caused him to recoil with a horrible hiss, the grip he had on them loosened. 

[color=Dodgerblue]”[i]Lapis, run!![/i]”[/color] He yelled. 

The brother/sister pair then ran off for the hills, with Kinnich hissing in great anger, melting the onslaught of ice around him. 

[color=darkorange]”[i]Fucking little shits! As if you have anywhere else to go![/i]”[/color]

The sun beast's intimidating roar rang true and violently echoed through the vermillion cavern. Hachigan shudders and clings to Leon's cloak for dear life, shaken by the vivid past of his master's suffering at the mercy of their uncle. 

[color=00aeef]"..."[/color] Leon's throat dried up. His eyes widened. His body refuses to move from the horrific memory he has seen. Is this the feeling of dread I sense?

His fear and uncertainty slowly turned to rage and disgust at this display of injustice.  

He clenched his fist so hard that it started to turn red. His cursed mark around his body became more visible. His thirst for vengeance seems to react to his emotions. The very thin line between Leon's sanity and insanity is cracking. A line an Esper shouldn't cross.

[b]"You'd be doing the world a favor by severing the sun beast's fate. Although this mountainous obstacle won't be toppled that easy. The question now is how much are you willing to pay the price to change the course of the Belua sibling's grim future?"[/b]

With one final deep breath, The esper fae has seen enough.

[color=00aeef]"This is why I hate delving into one's thoughts. You get to relive both of their dreams and nightmares."[/color] Leon said solemnly and snapped his fingers, Both he and Hachigan are engulfed in a bright light. Shattering the aquatic scenery around them like a mirror cracking and breaking into pieces.

They return to the present time, back at the mess hall, escaping Lapis's inner head space.

[color=00aeef]"My apologies for prying into your deep thoughts Lapis, but you seem to be irrational and preoccupied by fear by the very mention of his name."[/color] The esper rogue said as his eyes lost their glow and disconnected the link between them.

[color=00aeef]"I just need some answers."[/color] He continued.

[color=00aeef]" For what it's worth, your uncle is wrong about you. You're not weak nor helpless."[/color] Leon nonchalantly said. 
 
[color=00aeef]"My offer still stands if that fateful day comes. If your brother Ruecian is your sword and shield. Lemme be your cloak and dagger. The vorpal blade that will strike through the heart of hellfire itself by any means necessary."[/color] Leon swore an oath to the Azure Esper.

His unexpected voyage through the reaches of Lapis’s most repressed memories having come to an end, he and the tormented Belua girl regained consciousness in the outside world. For Leon and Lapis, it seemed like his trek lasted for hours. However, only a few moments actually passed. Eve was slightly shaking her friend, attempting to get a response. 

[color=ec008c]”Laps, are you ok? Why weren’t you saying anything?”[/color]

[color=6ecff6]”....Huh?”[/color] Lapis shook her head for a moment before turning to Evelyn. [color=6ecff6]”What happened…?”[/color] She looked at Leon, a bit of anger growing on her face. [color=6ecff6]”Y-you peered into my mind, didn’t you?! Moral Espers follow a code, y’know? They don’t just peer into a person’s mind without their consent!”[/color]
 
[color=ec008c]”Eww, you perv! Getting fresh just ‘cause you helped me out on that mission?! I’ll fry you for messing with Laps!”[/color] Eve snapped, a bit of lighting crackling in her hand. That was before Lapis placed a hand on her shoulder, getting her to stop. 

[color=6ecff6]”Going further from that, it is [b]because[/b] we’re Espers that I could sense that his intentions were pure. So, you saw a premonition that Kinnich would soon wreak havoc on us. My…uncle…”[/color] Her face grimaced, writhe with a slew of horrible emotions. 

[color=ec008c]”Your uncle…? I mean, what’s his deal?”[/color] Eve said, still rather confused. 

[color=6ecff6]”Since you only recently graduated, Eve, you probably wouldn’t have heard of him. The academies don’t usually try to speak of S-grade criminals to students. The staff members have all probably heard of him a few times. And, Master Arteus has met him personally.”[/color] Lapis answered. 

Eve’s face lit up in shock. [color=ec008c]”Your uncle’s a S-rank criminal?!”[/color]

[color=6ecff6]”That’s right. And apparently, you wish to…protect me from him, Leon?”[/color] She said, looking at the tattooed Fae. [color=6ecff6]”I mean, you can understand that your offer is a little awkward, we’ve only just met! But, Master Arteus and Mistress Brun are always saying that members of the Tower should treat each other like family…”[/color] Lapis was clearly conflicted at Leon’s proposition. 

[color=ec008c]”Laps, don’t listen to this perv! I’ll protect you from your uncle; I’ll blow him into sticky little charred pieces. Not to mention your brother has our backs too! Uh, it sounds weird to talk about your uncle like this, and this is the first time I’ve ever heard about it. What’s his name - Kinnis or something? Why is he a psycho exactly?”[/color]

[color=6ecff6]”It’s…hard to talk about. He’s also caused my brother a great deal of pain as well…”[/color] Lapis said, eyes staring down at her glass. [color=6ecff6]”But, I suppose Leon already knows the gist of the matter. Since he would naturally pose a threat to everyone at the Tower, it only makes sense that we should help each other out. I don’t know if I trust you, yet, but I welcome you as a fellow teammate all the same.”[/color]

[/hider]

Collab with [@Hammerman]
[hider=Dinner for Four]
While the two lovebirds were washing up from their earlier mission in the waterways, they would hear a sudden knock on the door. With it, came a familiar voice. 

[color=0076a3]”Um, hello? It's me, Rana. Is this a good time?”[/color]

Renee gasped, her cheeks reddening in an instant. Her fae ears were sharp enough to notice Rana's muffled voice through the door. She was indeed having fun with Lanus as they took a bath together — the latter currently scrubbing and washing the former, which was naturally accompanied by loads of groping as well.

It would seem that the couple forgot to lock the door after they went into their room. After not receiving an answer, Rana had inadvertently opened the door. [color=0076a3]”Oh! My apologies, I didn’t realize that the door was unlocked. I had heard that you all were successful in saving those children lost in the waterways and -”[/color] She cut her sentence short when she noticed that neither of the Fae lovers were in the immediate area of the room, but she could hear movement and the sound of water coming from the bathroom. 

[color=0076a3]”Um…is this a bad time?”[/color] She said, her nervousness building up. 

"N-no! Not at all!" Renee shouted as she quickly separated herself from Lanus, grabbing the nearby towel to dry herself.

Lanus smirked. Unlike her, he wasn't shy at all by the sudden appearance of Rana. Hell, he wouldn't mind her seeing them having fun in the showers. He might even ask her to join in as well…

"Ahn! Cut it out! Rana's here!" Renee hissed. Lanus had just given her a pinch in her bottom.

He just could not resist.

Meanwhile, inside the room, Lana would be able to see a pile of clothes spread messily on the floor.

They were Renee and Lanus' clothes. Including their undergarments.
ᅠ
The couple soon finished putting on their towels. Lanus was the first to leave. With a confident smile, even though he was barely dressed at all, he greeted the woman.

"Good evening! Is something the matter, Miss Rana?"

Renee exited afterwards, her cheeks still maintaining their red shade. It only reddened further once she noticed that her panties were perfectly displayed on the floor right beside where Rana stood.

At the sight of seeing the couple’s clothes sprawled all over the floor, including their undergarments, Rana’s face lit up redder than Renee’s was currently. 

[color=0076a3]”O-oh my goodness! Forgive me, I should’ve waited until you were decent and answered the door!”[/color] Rana stuttered out, practically flailing. She tried to look away from Lanus’s barely clothed body.

[color=0076a3]”Um, I wanted to congratulate you on accomplishing your mission, and to say that I’m glad you could rescue those children. Oh! I was wondering if you wanted to grab some dinner in the mess hall with me…”[/color]

Lanus, being the Casanova that he was, wasn't bothered in the slightest that he was showing his shirtless form to the woman. In fact, he found her reaction to be quite cute.

"Oh, don't you worry!" He proclaimed with a grin. "I don't mind showing my body to a beautiful woman such as—ouch!" 

Renee stomped her right foot onto his left. "Y-yes, thank you!" The female fae replied to Rana. "And we'll take you up on your offer! Now please leave the room so we can change!"

Renee wouldn't want any other women to see Lanus's body after all.

Five minutes later, the Fae couple opened the door. They were now back to their decent self, fully dressed from top to bottom. 

"Well, let's go, shall we?" Renee forced a smile.

Rana politely bowed and promptly left the room at Renee’s request. She held her hands together downward, staring at the floor awkwardly. She blushed as she tried to compose herself. [color=0076a3][i]I’m such an idiot…[/i][/color] She thought to herself. [color=0076a3][i]I…should’ve just stayed outside and waited longer…[/i][/color]

[color=8dc73f]”Is…everything alright?”[/color] A voice suddenly called out to Rana, causing her to jump a bit and look every which way. [color=8dc73f]”Um, here.”[/color] Looking in front of her, Rana would be face-to-face with the Fae archer Giselle, the emissary of the Queen. 

[color=8dc73f]”I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you.”[/color] Giselle said in a soft tone, attempting to calm the flustered Rana. 

[color=0076a3]”Oh! No, that’s quite alright, I was just a little distracted at the moment.”[/color] She replied. 

[color=8dc73f]”Are you perchance another member of this Tower?”[/color] Giselle asked. 

[color=0076a3]”Ah, yes, that’s correct. My name is Rana Schuellen, operational services and administrative secretary for Eon. It’s a pleasure to meet you. Who might you be?”[/color] 

[color=8dc73f]”Giselle Kostovii, emissary of the Fae Queen of Ithaca. I’m mainly here to perform a ‘survey’ of sorts for the Tower.[/color] 

While the two ladies were busy with introductions, The Fae couple had come out of their room, fully clothed. Renee let them know they were ready to head to the mess hall. Giselle immediately shot Lanus another look, albeit it was less menacing this time. 

[color=8dc73f]”Oh, was I interrupting something?”[/color] Giselle said, looking at Renee. 

Renee's gaze hardened when she realized that Giselle was there as well. She quickly hugged her arms around Lanus's, replying with, "Yes, you did, actually. We were having fun in the showers just now."

[color=8dc73f]”[i]Having fun in the showers…?”[/i][/color] Giselle responded with an exasperated expression. [color=8dc73f]”Is…that right…?”[/color]

"Yep," Renee replied with a slight victorious smirk, hugging Lanus's arm even tighter. "We're a perfectly healthy couple after all."

[color=0076a3]”Um, we were all actually going to grab some lunch in the mess. Would…you like to join us, Ms. Giselle?”[/color] 

[color=8dc73f]”I originally came to check on Renee to see if she was still doing well from the last outing. But, it seems my worries were…misplaced. I suppose that would be fine, as long as these two don’t object.”[/color] She responded.

"That's fine by me as well," Renee replied. "After all, I'm not the kind of woman who would be threatened by any woman who gets close to her lover."

Lanus smiled, his expression practically saying, [i]"Yep, I'm hers now. And I can't really wiggle my way out from her grasp!"[/i]

Giselle was rather taken aback by Renee's sudden change of character, to say the least. It was almost as if she was establishing territory. Did Lanus perhaps…[i]no[/i]! She shot a glare at the white-haired fae; That scoundrel must’ve told her about the past between them! She’d keep silent for now, so as to not ruin the mood, but she’d have some words when the time was right. 

[color=0076a3]”Oh…well, that’s great then! Let’s be off then. It is to my understanding that Ms. Bellum’s cooking rivals that of any five star restaurant!”[/color] Rana said, noticing the tension building up, thus trying to change the subject. 

It didn’t take long for the group to reach the mess hall. They would see Lapis, Evelyn, and Leon conversing about something, but they ultimately decided it’d be best to leave them undisturbed. Bellum greeted the group and made some fresh plates full of freshly roasted meat and mixed vegetables. Sitting down, Rana and Giselle sat next to each other, facing Lanus and Renee. 

[color=0076a3]”So, Renee…”[/color] Rana said. [color=0076a3]”I heard that you encountered a malfested Fae while on the mission, I hope things didn’t get too dire!”[/color] 
[color=8dc73f]”If anything did, I would take responsibility.”[/color] Giselle interjected into the conversation. [color=8dc73f]”He was an elusive fellow I had been tasked with hunting, perhaps he inherited some of the tendencies of the arachnids he kept as company, abilities that allowed him to be so evasive of my bolts.”[/color]

"We did," Renee replied. "And I…" She paused, looking down at her food. "I froze up."

After a short pause, she continued. "He… he was malfested, yes. And he reminded me of my father and mother. My family. They were… malfested as well… And that's why I.. I…"

Lanus, realizing what was going on, reacted in a flash, taking her left hand and gripping it with his own under the table.

"I'm fine." She gave a wry smile towards Lanus. "If just talking about it like this, I'm fine. It's only when you see one in the flesh that I… that my mind can't bear it…"

Turning to the others, she then said, "I'm sorry. It's… it was the first time I saw a malfested fae… after that day… I shouldn't have frozen like that…" She gave an apologetic look towards Giselle.

Rana and Giselle looked at Renee with concerned looks: both of them certainly weren’t stangeres of the horrors presented by the malfested. 

 [color=8dc73f]”Renee…”[/color] Giselle said. 

Rana reached over and touched Renee’s free hand. [color=0076a3]”Losing loved ones, watching them turn into monsters, sometimes the pain never goes away. We can only thank the Scions that you were spared that fate.”[/color] She then turned to Lanus, giving him a look of gratitude. [color=0076a3]”In addition to this gentleman, as well. I’m sure you had a hand in saving Ms. Renee as well.”[/color]

[color=8dc73f]”I should be the one apologizing.”[/color] Giselle said with guilt in her voice. [color=8dc73f]”You were put in that situation because I let him get away. I made an oversight in a task I was assigned. The disgrace lies with me alone.”[/color]

Renee shook her head. "No. As a Reaver, it is inexcusable for me to freeze up in a mission like that. I swear, by my honor as a fae, I will never do that again." She looked firmly towards Rana and Giselle.

Silence fell onto the group, each person having difficulty deciding on what to say next.

Until Lanus abruptly lifted Renee out of her seat, placing her right on top of his lap.

"Eep! W-what are you doing, Lanus?! Put me down at once!"

Lanus gently hugged her from behind, placing his hands on top of her stomach.

"Shh. Stop being so serious, my cute little Renee. Don't forget, I'm always here to help you," he whispered with a smirk.

And then, shamelessly, he moved his right hand upwards, resting it right on top of her breast.

"S-stop it!" Renee blushed. "Y-you can't do this kind of thing in public, you know!"

"Oh, who cares?! Everyone already knows we're a couple!" Lanus grinned as he groped her. All the while giving a glance at Giselle, provoking her for a response.

Rana and Giselle looked at Renee with surprised expressions, which quickly turned into happy ones. Their main concern was whether Renee was feeling better, which she seemed to be. Rana was about to say something in response, until Lanus decided to be the one to break that silence by pulling his lover closer and groping her at the dinner table. A scene that caused both Rana and Giselle to shoot him exasperated glances. 

[color=8dc73f]”I swear, even after all these years you’re [i]still[/i] the same scoundrel you were from before! Just because she’s your wife doesn’t mean you get to act like a hog whenever you want!”[/color]

"W-wife?! W-we're not at that stage yet…" Renee replied, stuttering with a blush.

"Why bother with marriage anyway?" Lanus chuckled, giving Renee's left nipple a pinch, earning a yelp from the female fae. "We're not settling down anytime soon. Raising kids is just not for me."

"Alright, cut it out, you shameless lecher!" Renee yelled before elbowing the man.

"Gah!"

She stepped off his lap, glancing down at his crotch.

"Can you believe this pervert?" She looked at Giselle. "He got a boner just from that! You were right, Giselle. He's completely unsalvageable!"

With a huff, she sat back down on her chair.

Rana looked at Giselle, then back at Lanus. [color=0076a3]”Um, do you two…know each other personally?”[/color]

[color=8dc73f]”Unfortunately…”[/color] Giselle responded coldly. [color=8dc73f]”It’s a long and unpleasant story. Very unpleasant, I should say…”[/color] She took a swig of her drink, before slamming the mug back down on the table. The impact made Rana recoil a bit. 

[color=8dc73f]”So, I’ll change the subject. May I ask what made you both decide to join Eon Tower in the first place? I know you two probably haven’t been here long, but what do you make of the staff here so far?”[/color]

"Well…" Renee was the first to answer. "I think Miss Roze is a nice person to work with. She didn't scold me for, you know, freezing up in our last mission."

"And she's quite the beauty, if I do say so myself." Lanus added nonchalantly, earning a glare from Renee.

"As for Sir Ruecian," Renee continued. "Despite his youthful appearance, he's really strong. I aspire to be as strong as him one day."

"What? You don't aspire to be like me instead?" Lanus gave the performance of an offended boyfriend.

"You're too much of a lecher for that!" Renee returned.

[color=8dc73f]”Of that, we are in agreement.”[/color] Giselle said plainly, cosigning Renee's reprimand.

[color=0076a3]”I must admit, he even leered at me during our first meeting…”[/color] Rana added, taking a sip of her drink. [color=0076a3]”That being said, I also agree that Ms. Roze and Sir Ruecian certainly are impressive combatants. But, you two are also powerful Reavers! Renee, I know what it's like to watch your friends and loved ones be killed in front you, to watch them…turn into monsters. When out in the field, just know that you won't be alone, [i]all[/i] of us will be here to support you in any way we can!”[/color]

[color=8dc73f]”I concur."[/color] Giselle said. [color=8dc73f]”Not to mention this lout as well. He may be a scoundrel, lecher, and an utter git, but he is no less a superb fighter. Even Her Majesty can attest to that."[/color]

"Thank you, you two." Renee smiled, a rarity for the normally reserved fae.

"Why, thank you for the praise, Miss Giselle!" Lanus smirked, before taking a gulp of his hot coffee.

After another brief, more lighthearted chat, the group had finished their dinner. Giselle and Rana had wished a good night to the Fae couple as they retired back to their rooms for the night. The other two ladies said their farewells to one another, and went their separate ways as well. 

[/hider]

Collab with [@Rune_Alchemist]
[hider=Impromptu Tour]

[color=8882be]"Oh. Uh, sure, that's fine I suppose. Come to think of it, you haven't had a chance to tour the Tower, have you?"[/color] Roze said, looking back at the squid-like Belua. [color=8882be]"Pretty sure we don't have any public washrooms though…"[/color]

Being led down the halls, Haaselle would be shown the ornate designs of the Tower's inner workings. One room they passed had its door open, and they would immediately be pelted with the smell of cheap booze and cigarette ash. To the side of the door was a plaque that said "Alchemy Lab/Arms Shop". 

[color=8882be]"The old man should know that not every person will be able to put up with that smell."[/color] Roze said. [color=8882be]"This is Old Man Childes's workshop. Since you're an Alchemist, you may find yourself coming here often"[/color]

Walking her further down the halls, they eventually made their way to the private quarters. There, they stood in front of a door with an empty plaque. [color=8882be]"This will be your room."[/color] Roze said with a smile. Opening the door, she led Haaselle inside. She would find the room was fully furnished and was nearly decorated. 

[color=8882be]"You'll find that you even have your own bathroom. You probably wanna wash up, since we just left a sewer."[/color] She said, chuckling a bit. [color=8882be]"Think you'll be needing anything else for right now? After you're done, I can show you around a little more, maybe grab a bite to eat?"[/color]

An alchemy shop? She’d definitely need to give that a look at later, but for now she was dragged off to her own room in the tower. Strange, really. As she’d step into the room she couldn’t help but to think about…how boring it all was.

 [color=aba000]“Ah yes, the sweet water of cleansing. I suppose I do need a bath, but alas a bath can only clean the physical.”[/color] Haaselle responded with a grin.  [color=aba000]“I wouldn’t mind some food later, but i do have a question. Are we allowed to decorate our rooms? I think…its missing something. Perhaps a Piano, or organ. Maybe a music box? An art gallery definitely is needed.”[/color]

[color=8882be]"My, I see you’re a fan of the fine arts!"[/color] Roze said. [color=8882be]"While, yes, you’re indeed well within your right to decorate your room, uh, I’m afraid that we don’t have any spare instruments to accommodate…"[/color]

[color=8882be]"There should be plenty of shops in town that sell them at a decent rate, though a piano or organ would be expensive regardless I imagine. Well, I guess since you’re an alchemist, you could just transmute your own instruments. I’m not too familiar with art galleries, perhaps Ms. Elaine or Mistress Brun could better help with that?"[/color]

[color=aba000]“I see I see, as long as I have permission, then I shall renovate until I am comfortable.”[/color] Haase smiled. [color=aba000]“Hmm…though I suppose…money is an issue. Alas, such a pointless object. How does one measure value in small coins? I do not understand. T’would be better to barter objects actual value for others of actual value…haaa.”[/color] A shake of her head. [color=aba000]“Ah well. I’ll just buy some art supplies to make do for now. Thank you Miss~Roze~”[/color] The end of her sentence was inflected with a slight sing-songy childlike tone almost as Haase giggled. [color=aba000]“I shall take the offer of bathing now. My robe is starting to smell a little, I think. I’ll be done in a mere trifling minute or so.”[/color]

[color=8882be]"Sounds good, then. I guess I’ll just have a seat and keep myself company, if you don’t mind."[/color] Roze said, taking a seat on one of the chairs. [color=8882be]"Oh, of course if you're more comfortable with me waiting out in the hall, I certainly wouldn’t mind!"[/color]

[color=aba000]”No no, I don’t mind. I’d make some tea, but alas, out of fresh spirits.”[/color] She’d chuckle, stepping into the washroom.

And so, Roze would have thus been subjected to a lively performance of a shower orchestra. Haaselle’s voice echoing in the bathroom as she’d sing and what was presumably the sounds of dancing meeting Roze’s ears as she’d take a full fifteen minutes to get herself scrubbed, washed, and all prettied up…at least, it could be assumed she did as once she was done, Haaselle would step out of the shower, a little tooting trumpet horn sound announcing her arrival.

She was still wearing the robe though, but it did at least somehow look cleaner despite not being washed itself…

[color=aba000]”Ah, there we go Roze, sorry for the wait I’m all pretty and proper now~”[/color]

[color=8882be]"You look chipper and refreshed."[/color] Roze said. [color=8882be]"Oh! I should probably clean up as well. Hold on"[/color]

Haaselle would observe Roze as she surrounded herself in streams of water, seemingly controlling it like a conductor as it cleaned away any grime or sewage odors that lingered on her clothes. Within a few moments, Haaselle would see that Roze seemed to be completely refreshed, along with her clothes that sheemed as if they were brand new. 

[color=8882be]"There we go."[/color] Roze said, with a satisfied smile. [color=8882be]"Water magic can be quite useful, and it’s certainly quicker to use than having to walk down a room to take a shower!"[/color]

She then turned back to her magus junior. [color=8882be]"That was quite the singing Haaselle, truly. Uh, I think I may have even heard some instruments in there, but that can’t be right. Were you a performer before coming here to Eon? At any rate, where would you like to go? Did you want some food, or to continue the tour of the Tower?"[/color]

[color=aba000]”Ooh, lovely.”[/color] Haaselle clapped at Roze’s show. [color=aba000]”And actually yes, I was a performer of sorts. You see, my Esper abilities allow more than just for physical affects on things. I’m something of a minor illusionist, you see. I can,”[/color] A trumpet appeared in Haaselle’s hand, that would begin trumpeting without any input from her. [color=aba000]“Make little tiny illusions, hehe. Well, as far as you are concerned it is. Until it isn’t. Then it becomes quite real, but for now don’t worry the trumpet doesn’t exist.”[/color]

The trumpet though, was completely still in her hand though even if she was now ignoring it.

[color=aba000]“Shall we continue the tour of the tower? I’m not all that hungry right now truth be told.”[/color]

[color=8882be]"Sure, no problem. I’ll just show you more of the staff members then."[/color] Roze said, motioning for Haas to follow her. 

Leading her out of the room, they left the private rooms hall and made their way back toward the administrative wing of the Tower. After a few minutes of walking, they eventually made their way in front of a door that had a plague that read: “Elaine Gardner”. 

[color=8882be]"This is the infirmary."[/color] Roze said. [color=8882be]"Hopefully, you won’t have a need to go here too much. But, if you do, just know that you’ll be in good hands."[/color] She then knocked on the door. 

[color=82ca9d]”Come in.”[/color] Said a gentle voice. 

Opening the door, Haas would see a young-looking woman with some striking features sitting at a desk. She appeared to be reading a book as the pair entered her office; Taking a sip of tea, she sat down her cup as they approached. 

[color=82ca9d]”Ah, good evening you two. Roze, I imagine this is one of the new recruits?”[/color] She asked the Triad Witch. 

[color=8882be]"That’d be right.”[/color] She answered. [color=8882be]"She came to us at a bad time, so I’m making it up by giving an impromptu tour.”[/color]

[color=82ca9d]”I see.”[/color] Elaine said. [color=82ca9d]”Well then, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Elaine Gardner, the chief medical officer and apothecary of Eon Tower. It’s a pleasure to meet you. Hopefully I don’t end up seeing you here too much. Oh! Not that I mean that in a bad way, just that if I see you in here, it’s usually because something’s ailing you. And your name is?”[/color]

[color=aba000]"“Haaselle. No surname. Had one, but I wrote a song about it once then forgot it. Do tell me if you see the sheets anywhere, hm?”[/color] She’d respond with a good natured smile to Elaine. [color=aba000]"“Don’t worry, I have a habit of sending others to medical facilities instead of myself.”[/color] Honestly meeting people was an odd experience for Haaselle. On one hand, she liked meeting new people. On the other hand, new people mildly…concerned her. It was difficult enough deciding to come to the tower in the first place, really. [color=aba000]"A pleasure, though, absolutely~"[/color]

Elaine giggled a bit at Haaselle’s “antics”, one could call them. [color=82ca9d]”I’ll be sure to keep an eye out.”[/color] She responded. [color=82ca9d]”I suppose the confidence you have in your skill is reassuring. I don’t really care for violence, but I understand what is sometimes necessary. Just don’t overdo it, okay? Sometimes taking a less aggressive path benefits [i]you[/i] as well.”[/color] She took another sip of tea to clear her throat. 

[color=82ca9d]”Well, I should tell you that I also study various herbs along with Ms. Bellum, our resident botanist, fellow apothecary, and chef. I’m always in the habit of making new potions and concoctions to assist you all in any way I can, so if you happen upon any strange solutions or herbs while in the field, please do reach out. Ahem. Although, I would…much rather you reach out to Bellum if you need any poisons or bioweapons made. That’s more her forte.”[/color]

[color=8882be]"Haaselle is an Alchemist like the both of you, so I’m sure you’ll have much common ground to work with."[/color] Roze said. 

[color=82ca9d]”Is that so?”[/color] Elaine responded, turning to Haas curiously.

[color=aba000]”I’ve been known to dabble.”[/color] Haase responded with a toothy grin. [color=aba000]“Granted I am entirely self-taught. I was not afforded the usual education or study most others have.”[/color] The squid woman sighed, a mildly bemused, pouty expression overcoming her features. [color=aba000]“Really, I suppose that is why people tend to not trust anything I make. Make one person grow wings on his head once and everyone acts like you’re a terrible person. Tangents aside though,”[/color] One of Haase tentacles moved aside a strand of her out of place hair. [color=aba000]”Don’t worry, any poisons I make i’ll do it myself. Wouldn’t be the first time I had to get creative to remove an…obstacle. If you don’t mind though, perhaps I could come by and we could compare notes? Or maybe I could pester you for some pointers?”[/color]

[color=82ca9d]”I see. Well, hopefully no one here ends up with head wings or any other strange appendages as a side effect of your concoctions.”[/color] Elaine said. [color=82ca9d]”Recently, I’ve had to deal with a lot of craziness in a short amount of time. As for comparing notes, as I’ve stated, I don’t really enjoy dabbling in poisons and toxins. I insist that Ms. Bellum would be a much better source of knowledge to pull from. Now then Ms. Haaselle, is there any other tidbit you need to know about me?”[/color]

`[color=aba000]”Aw, I’m starting to think you don’t like me. Most of my stuff isn’t directly malicious! I make sure of it!”[/color] Haase responded with a playful grin, thinly veiling her mild frustration as she’d continue. [color=aba000]”Weeeelll, can’t fault you for that, no ma’am. I’d make a bad student anyways according to everyone that raised me…anyways. It was a pleasure to meet you. Perhaps I could paint your portrait sometime?”[/color]

[color=82ca9d]”Oh no, my dear, you’re perfectly fine, teehee.”[/color] Elaine said, gently waving her hand to further illustrate her point. [color=82ca9d]As for being a bad student, sometimes, it’s the teacher that needs to be held accountable. But, as long as you’re willing to learn, I’d be more than happy to teach you~”[/color] She mused. 

Elaine was a bit roused by Haas’s offer of becoming a centerpiece. [color=82ca9d]”Oh my, you’re also an artist. We certainly don’t have a shortage of interesting recruits in the Tower. I just might take you up on that offer!”[/color] She said, giggling a bit. 

[color=8882be]"Apparently she is."[/color] Roze said. [color=8882be]"She’s also an aspiring musician; I even found her outside blowing a trumpet until I called out to her. Perhaps she’ll put on a song for us one day. But, I think we should be done here, I want to show her the other areas of the Tower before it gets too late. Hopefully the other staff members are available. "[/color]

[color=82ca9d]”I see, so you’re leaving then?”[/color] Elaine said. 

[color=8882be]"’Fraid so.”[/color] Roze responded. She began leading Haaselle out of the room. 

[color=82ca9d]”Have a good evening you two. Here’s to you becoming a wonderful artisan, Ms. Haaselle, teehee.”[/color] Elaine said, waving goodbye to the pair. 

[color=8882be]"You as well, Ms. Elaine. Now then…”[/color] Roze turned back to Haaselle, the both of them back in the hallway. [color=8882be]"There’s Ms. Naomi, a magical beast and environmental researcher, although she’s not exactly very sociable. I thought I saw a sign on her door saying that she was out anyway.”[/color] She paused for a moment, thinking. 

[color=8882be]"There’s also the librarian Kiff. He’s the head of our repository of grimoires and magical artifacts. He’s honestly kind of a sketchy guy, but he’s pretty knowledgeable about a myriad of different subjects. There’s Old Man Childes, who mans the alchemy and magitech lab for Eon. He’s the one who designed and maintains my staff, so I often count on him. I can’t be too flattering of him, though, as he is somewhat of an old fart and doesn’t keep the lab very clean… Ms. Bellum, as Elaine already mentioned, is a botanist and environment magus like Ms. Naomi. She’s probably in the mess hall right now, being the Tower’s chef and all. There’s also Ms. Nadia: She’s an upcoming alchemic and invocation researcher, attempting to make a breakthrough in said fields that hopes to take off one day. She’s a bit eccentric, to let you know now, but you’re quite the character yourself, so you might get along. We could visit one of them as part of the tour. You’re probably already acquainted with Master Arteus, and perhaps Mistress Brun as well, I take it?”[/color]

[color=aba000]"Atreus, yes."[/color] Haaselle paused for a moment.  [color=aba000]"Bruns, no. Afraid not."[/color] A small tentacle protruded under from Haaselle’s robe, holding her chin much like someone might a hand in thought.  [color=aba000]"Sir Kiff is knowledgeable in mysticism, hm? Or more esoteric things? Sketchy…hmhm~”[/color] She hummed an upbeat tune to herself. [color=aba000]“Well he sounds like my kind of chap, ehehe. I have a question I think he could help with…could we meet him, then?"[/color] A mildly hopeful and interested look.

[color=8882be]"Allow me to lead the way then."[/color] Roze said, again motioning for the Belua girl to follow her. 

They eventually found themselves in front of the library’s double doors. [color=8882be]"Here we are."[/color] Roze said. Stepping forward, she opened one of the doors, and Haas would see the sprawling line of shelves that filled the large room. Each of said shelves were stacked full of countless tomes and magical items. At the center of the room, sat a long haired man wearing a snazzy suit with an untucked shirt. He seemed to be fiddling with an artifact of some sort, making an uncouth yawn as he did. He had a bored look on his face until he saw that the two ladies had entered the room. 

[color=2e3192]”Why Good Evening!”[/color] He said, now sitting straight in his chair. [color=2e3192]”Rozemyne! It’s nice to see you! I also see that you’ve brought a friend with you, another edition to the Tower, I presume?”[/color]

[color=8882be]"Your presumption would be correct, Mr. Kiff."[/color] She replied. 

[color=2e3192]”Roze, there’s no need for such formality between us, just Kiff is fine.”[/color] He said cheerfully. Roze responded with a neutral expression, causing Kiff to make a cute frown. 

He then turned to Haaselle. [color=2e3192]”Evening. Name’s Kiff Luther, the proprietor of this library of grimoires and artifacts. There were actually some other new recruits who came in recently and already made use of the facility. Guess I shouldn’t say that like it’s a surprise, magus are usually bookworms. When you hang around meatheads like Xashan and Ruecian, it affects your perception haha!”[/color] Apparently, Roze didn’t think Kiff’s little jab at her friends was very funny. She squinted at him with her arms folded. 

Taking the hint, Kiff cleared his throat. [color=2e3192]”And, your name would be…?”[/color] He asked, addressing Haas once again. 

[color=aba000]“Haaselle! A pleasure to meet you, Kiff!”[/color] Haase replied with a friendly grin like she was addressing an old friend and extending a hand to shake, though if he’d take it he’d instead be met with one of her tentacles shaking his hand in place of her hand. [color=aba000]“Rozie here has been telling me all about how wonderful you are and how she very much thinks you're an upstanding gentleman with no shadiness about you at all.”[/color] Haase flashed Roze a grin. [color=aba000]“And tells me you’re something of an expert on the matter of more unknown and esoteric subjects.”[/color]

Kiff chuckled, clearly pleased with Haaselle's flattery. [color=2e3192]”While I doubt those words came from Roze specifically, they're nonetheless true. The countless travels in my earlier days have allowed me to see things most don't in a whole lifetime. Were you needing information in a specific subject?”[/color]

[color=aba000]”An unblinking yellow moon and a song that wrote itself.”[/color] Haaselle responded rather quickly, barely even waiting for Kiff to finish speaking. [color=aba000]“Ever heard of either of these things?”[/color]

[color=2e3192]”Hmm. If I had to guess, you're referring to the Emperor in Arylide, no?”[/color] Kiff said, his interest piqued. [color=2e3192]”You must be a fan~”[/color]

Leaning forward in his chair, Kiff's mood seemed to have improved considerably. His earlier boredom had all but vanished.

[color=2e3192]”I can't tell you how refreshing it is to meet another literature enthusiast among the new recruits. To answer your second question, I may have heard a tale or two of such lyrics. What about them has gotten your interest?”[/color]

[color=aba000]”A fan? Oh certainly, I’m a fan alright.”[/color] Haaselle replied. [color=aba000]”In the same way someone might be a fan of the flu, or a termite, or a gremlin that steals your lunch while you’re not looking! Absolute fools, imbeciles, crass, coarse, unimaginative neanderthals!”[/color] Haaselle hissed, her usual grin replaced with a look of unbridled hatred, her demeanor practically doing a complete 180 in a matter of moments. [color=aba000]“Can’t get it out of my head! They put it in there and it always follows me, dreams, night wherever I go-”[/color]

Haaselle stopped, frowning, pulling her hood further down over her head.

[color=aba000]“...you know nothing useful, if all you know are stories. Stories are everywhere. Common. I could make one up on the spot better than that one.”[/color] Her frown was still present, but she’d give a rather theatrical, comical bow. [color=aba000]”Apologies, Kiff. It seems I’ve been put in a foul mood. I’ll…come back later.”[/color]

[color=8882be]"Haaselle? Is everything alright?"[/color] Roze said, turning to the tentacled Belua with concerned eyes. 

Kiff also looked at Haas with a bit of perplexity on his face. [color=2e3192]”My goodness, looks like something’s really weighing you down! I thought you were discussing literature, but it appears that you may have been referring to something else entirely.”[/color] He said, rubbing his chin. [color=2e3192]”Well, I won’t twist your hand, but, if you ever need anything you’re always welcome here.”[/color]

With Roze and Haaselle now back in the hall, Roze thought it’d be worth it to at least pry a little further. 

[color=8882be]"Haaselle, what’s wrong? You were very troubled just now…"[/color]

[color=aba000]”Troubled, Rozie?”[/color] Haaselle responded with perhaps, unusual levity considering her small outburst. [color=aba000]”Oh who doesn’t have troubles? The pauper begging in the street…? Tch, no, no good. The dam, burst. Dark, yellow and crimson colored. Bah, I need a drink. Or a muse. Rozie, shall you be that for now?”[/color] The yellow clad woman frowned at Rozie. [color=aba000]“...I suppose you don’t know why I’m here, do you? I guess that old man just took pity on me...”[/color]


[color=8882be]"Haaselle, you certainly speak in a rather strange way, no offense…”[/color] Roze said, scratching her cheek. [color=8882be]"I guess you can draw a picture of me sometime, if that’s what you want… As for why you’re here, that’s something you’d have to ask Master Arteus. He probably knows a bit about your past, and sees that you have talent and potential to make something of yourself. Also, Haaselle, whatever’s bothering you, just know that it’s a burden that you don’t have to shoulder by yourself. You have us as well, since we’re a rather small unit, it’s pretty important that we look out for one another.”[/color] She said with a reassuring smile. 

[color=aba000]”What may be strange to one, is but a commonality to another.”[/color] Haaselle responded. [color=aba000]“No no, no painting for now, but rather a story. Boring, one, but if you want to listen…I suppose I can give you the abridged version.”[/color] Haaselle glanced to the side, one of her tentacles removing the hood from her face, revealing a messy head of dark colored hair. [color=aba000]“There was a girl once, you see. Out at night. She saw something she shouldn’t have. Was…invited to a play house. She never came back. Those there did things to the girl. Little more than torture really, to see if they could get something out of her. And those there you see, have some belief that the book, play, whatever I asked Sir Kiff about are in fact, real.”[/color]

Roze listened intently as Haas gave her rather enigmatic tale. [color=8882be]"Haaselle, was that girl you?"[/color] She asked. 

[color=aba000]”Oh come on, you’re smarter than that! You don’t need to ask me that.”[/color] Haaselle chuckled. [color=aba000]“But…thanks for…looking like you care at least, hm? Maybe I will paint a portrait of you at some point…I forget if I’ve already said I would, oh well.”[/color]

Roze scoffed at Haaselle’s observation. [color=8882be]"Haaselle, I said that we look out for each other at Eon, and I meant it!"[/color] She said with a tone that was solemn, but kind. When she thought about it, Elaine was the one Haas said she would like to paint a picture of. Having misunderstood what Haaselle had meant, and having not been chosen at first as a centerpiece made Roze feel oddly depressed. 

[color=8882be]"...So, were you wanting to visit some of the other facilities of the Tower right now?"[/color]

[color=aba000]”You’ll forgive me if I’m not in the mood any more, Rozie.”[/color] Haase replied, pulling her hood back up. [color=aba000]“I should go…focus on the music. A painting. Something really before these crimson colored words end up getting out, hm? But…thanks. For listening…”[/color] A small pause, and a small bit of hesitation as Haaselle would turn to leave but stop short. [color=aba000]“...I don’t know…if more of those people are out there. I’m looking for them. That’s why I asked, but whenever I start looking I get so…feels like my head is being ripped open.”[/color] Haaselle quietly would speak before starting to walk again. [color=aba000]“Perhaps you can help, if I do find more? Ta-ta, Rozie. Don’t trip on the way out, hm?”[/color]

[color=8882be]"I’m sorry that you went through such an experience. It sounds like these people aren’t exactly well known, but I’ll be sure to let you know the moment any leads pop up."[/color] Roze said, as Haaselle walked off, presumably back to her room. The Triad Witch didn’t really know what to think of Haaselle at first, but now she felt empathy towards the Belua esper. Given what she’s said, she may very well have been a perfectly normal girl before…whatever happened to her. 

When and if she does confront those who wronged her, hopefully she wouldn’t have to do it alone. 

[/hider]