[i][b][center]Tyrael Marchosias[/center][/b][/i]

[b]"If nothing that we do matters, then all that matters is what we do." [/b]

Koan of the day. Tyrael looked at a page from a book that Justine had brought him. He wasn't sure why now, but some teachers had approached him wanting to know how he's been doing. He could guess why, and intended to rip the vines out from the stonework and make the walls around Mar's den soundproof. He knew that he wasn't exactly subtle with handling her, and that it would be good for Mar to be more social, but there were some things people needed to stay out of. Or if they wanted to be involved, be less crass about it. It's been five days since that conversation, and honestly Tyrael had been too occupied by college duties to watch over Mar since then, but he remembered the conversation like it just happened...

[hider=Heart To Heart]
Mar tilted her head giving Tyrael a look of annoyance.  It was a natural habit as words eluded her, unsure the right ones were being spoken. Her eyebrow raised but lips tightly sealed as she adjusted her gaze, her eyes resting on his body language. She straighten up her arms and raised her torso upright to face the fallen orc. Something wasn’t right. On many occasions she could easily read it like an open book but now… nothing. No slight gesture or movement betrayed his mood or reaction to her own. Even when he continued to chid her though spoken questions that seemed to be pleading one thing: why.

He only lived among Naga in a co-existing way, but never tried to understand why they acted that way. Her people, like any, had their traditions and pride that united them. Asking for help showed weakness which Mar couldn’t bring herself to do. She had been too hopeful to catch onto the human ways and adapt far quicker than was accustomed for her people, a vanity on her part. Feeling anger wither within her, the Naga thumped her tail upon the ground in protest at his words. When he didn’t even flinch she repeated it again.  


Tyrael sat unmoving. This entire time, his body said nothing. Only his words spoke his thoughts, as terse as they were. Because within those words were emotions. His thoughts, his feelings, expressed without moving a muscle. He knew that Mar may have difficulty understanding. Indeed, nearly all her problems stemmed because of her lack of ability to pick up the subtle clues of words and emotions. Even Tyrael had difficulties at time, a force of habit. But a habit he has learned to overcome at some point.

That’s not to say that Tyrael didn’t understand her feelings right now. He understood it more than most others would, which was why he had to be the one to teach Mar how to communicate with words. Even with the likes of Satori or Lucilia, those who could read the intentions and wills of others through means more subtle than body language, they lacked his experience with the naga. And the intimate understanding of someone like Mar.

[b]”Speak Marya.”[/b]

[color=lightsalmon]“Why are you ignoring me?”[/color] Mar asked, her tail still stomped for a third time on the ground. Dirt was kicked slightly and scattered in the particles into the den’s air, though it wasn’t enough to suffocate either of them. She was mindful of his chair as she stomped just inches from the demonomancer’s legs. It was enough to rattle the earth yet not to cause an aggressive reaction. 

No response. Tyrael just sat there. He didn’t even blink as the dust landed on his body. [b]”This is why. You define anger with violence. That is why you are feared. That is why Athalus is injured. This… Is what needs to be fixed.”[/b] Tyrael’s piercing gaze finally fell onto Mar instead of starting off into nothingness. If there was anything his eyes told her, it was that he was serious about this. He would literally sit here all day just to make Mar talk. [b]”Why have you never come to me for help? What stops you now? Do you think you have what it takes… To change on your own?”[/b]

Mar snapped her head back to the wall. Part of her wanted to lash out at Tyrael, her tail jerking to show her desire as she tried to reign it in. Her eyes shifted back to realize he was still sitting there, unmoving and still, with his face upon her figure. He was only going to listen to her word and it was difficult to get a read on his body language. She twisted about, her face brought to look at Tyrael. She sighed and spoke. [color=lightsalmon]”You know why. I won’t look weak in front of you and to that, it’s not our way. How often have you seen a Naga struggle with a load yet never ask for help? Have you never thought there was a reason? If you’re not strong enough to pull your own weight, you don’t need to survive.”[/color] 

Her voice held a bit of bitterness toward it though she knew it was instinct to follow her heritage.  

[b]”You do not want to look weak? You look pathetic right now.”[/b] Harsh words. But necessary ones. [b]”You are as foolish as Athalus. So willing to die for sentimental reasons. He would die for love… And you for pride. Realize that your pride has weaken you. You think you are strong enough, but you are blind to your own shortcomings. If you were back at the Ravine, your arrogance would have killed you three times over. But you live because of the grace of the gods and the sacrifices we make.. But that will not last for long. The college believes you are a threat to everyone. Even your family. They think you will be unable to communicate your wrath, and thus you will act on it like now.”[/b] Tyrael lifted his hand to motion towards the indent on the ground. 

[b]”Emotions are new to you. They are powerful. Uncontrolable. But to ignore them is to wallow in weakness. You do not have the experience to control yourself. Who else will you hurt, because you refuse to learn how to communicate your feelings? Me? Lyn?”[/b]

Mar jerked her head away, her body now fully upright. [color=lightsalmon]”I WOULD NEVER TOUCH MY DAUGHTER!”[/color] 

Her eyes glared at Tyrael with anger, her tail still coiled under her, while her body raised upward. Already her fangs had started to expand while she tried to keep her temper reined in, feeling the rage burning her and rising against her will to the surface. [color=lightsalmon]”THESE EMOTIONS, THEY ARE UNNATURAL AND DANGEROUS. I DON’T EVEN KNOW WHY OR UNDERSTAND THEM, I DON’T KNOW HOW. HOW TO CONTROL THEM. I TRY NOT LASH. I TRY NOT BUT….”[/color]

Mar’s tail slashed across the room, nicking Tyrael’s chair and slamming into the bed. Feathers kicked up and flew everywhere, raining down in white down over the pair. Her body was shaking in rage as she tried to bottle it up again. She twisted away and averted her eyes, her words choked out to make him leave. [color=lightsalmon]”Just leave… Tyrael, now.”[/color] 

Tyrael fell off the chair but quickly got back onto his feet. He avoided most of the debris that fell, and the ones that did hardly hurt him. She was yelling now, which was a start, though he was starting to feel a bit hurt at seeing Mar in this state. But he continued to press on. [b]”No. You have tried to control your emotions. You have failed.”[/b] Tyrael approached Mar knowing that she may lash out at him. And since she knew that Tyrael was made of sterner stuff than most mortals, most demons in fact, she may be much more violent to him. But he didn’t falter. [b]You will hurt everyone you love because you insist that the best way to deal with them is to let them grow stronger. Too strong for you to handle. They are like demons. If you ignore them, they will grow stronger… Independent…. And out of control. They will twist your wishes and desires into cruel and evil things. I can sense it within you right now.”[/b]

A little known ability of Master Demonomancers; their innate skill to determine the strength and nature of demons, or potential demons. Mar’s own inner demons were strong enough right now that Tyrael could extract them from her body and create something fearsome from it. [b]”You cannot ignore your inner demons. But to fight them, to deny them, is to give them purpose to overcome you. You meet their anger with your anger, and that will empower them while diminishing you. You have built up centuries of venomous spite and fury, and hunting has done nothing to cure it. It needs to be released, not all at once, but over time. Gradually. Just as it took you years for the foul influence to grow, it will take years for it to calm.”[/b]

Tyrael stood within arm’s reach of Mar. She would be able to lunge and inject him full of poison at this range, and the best he could do is keep Mar at arm’s length until her fury subsides. But now that he has pointed out her weakness, Tyrael wanted to tell her how to fix this. [b]”Talk to me Mar. Be honest. Say what you feel, about these emotions, about your life, about your thoughts. Tell me that I am wrong, and explain to me why you are right. Tell me how much you love Lyn and what you would do for her. I know you have the strength to master these monster called feelings. You merely need experience. I am here to teach you. I always have.”[/b]

Mar felt her tail sting. She had hit the mattress with little to no control, her rage boiling at her and threatening to overwhelm her attempts to ignore them. At this point she didn’t care if she injured herself as long as Tyrael went away. She didn’t need to be reminded of her weaknesses or the fact she failed in her attempts to control them, her arms wrapped about her body. Most the wounds were healed leaving her flesh almost perfect. Though she knew and could still relive the wounds inflicted on Althalus. Since her arrival here, bits and pieces of her seemed to be crumbled yet she resisted. Clinging on what Mar believed was herself from the time she hatched to now. 

It felt like the only thing to do since she was alone. Her head turned to spot Tyrael behind her but she didn’t strike, her tail twitching a warning, while she spoke softly. [color=lightsalmon]”Don’t you think I know that? You think I want to strike out?  I’ve tried to chasing him away before but he won’t leave. He doesn’t realize… don’t care for his own safety. how much it will do if I… Get leave Tyrael, please…”[/color]   

[b]”No. What is it that you want most? To be alone… Or to be understood?[/b] Tyrael stood unmoving behind Mar. Though he was purposely ignoring them, he could tell from Mar’s physical cues that she was on the verge of breaking. She was trying to reign in her emotions. She thinks this is control, but it’s no more control then binding a beast in chains and pulling against it. [b]”Look at yourself. You are building anger. No… You are trying to contain it. But that is not control. That is ignorance, Tell me what frustrates you. Tell me what we need to do so that you can control your emotions.”[/b]

Mar was trying to bit down. The anger and rage filled her, the embers burning subtly, her body shaking visibly and worsen. She curled in toward the wall as she tried to use the scents of earth and pride to smolder the misery within her. Her voice hissed at Tyrael with fury lacing each word and punctuated with a thump of her tail. [color=lightsalmon]”I don’t know Tyrael. That’s the problem! I don’t know how anymore. Nothing I’m doing is making it better and I can’t stop myself from lashing out. It’s not that I don’t want to use my words, but I don’t know how. How I explain the anger, the pain and misery my body is rejecting. When I try to get it under control… I lash out instead. I’m not doing it on purpose, but I can’t just stop.” [/color]

As she spoke and thumped her tail, it struggling not to lash out, Mar failed to notice the shake ebbing just a little. A small amount of pain and misery had been released but there was still much to go.   

Sighing, Tyrael figured this would a bit difficult. He supposed Mar isn’t like demons; it’s not like he could bully them into submission. Well, he could try, but again Mar was not a demon. He doesn’t need to hurt her to make her learn. [b]”Then tell me. Do you wish to learn?”[/b] That was really the big question here. Mar was already quite aware of her faults and shortcomings. She wasn’t unaware, merely ignorant, and now that Tyrael was pressing her he would give her the chance. It would certainly be a new and unknown thing for Mar, and Tyrael knows that most if not all naga dislike the unfamiliar. But that was what was the cause of all her strife. If she was willing to understand, to learn, then she can begin to heal. 

[color=lightsalmon]”I don’t know if I can… I want to, but that doesn’t mean I can accomplish it. Failing in this…”[/color] Mar trailed off but the unsaid words were clear. It frightened her the most because of what she would lose, her family and most of all what she had come to accept as her own identity. [color=lightsalmon]”I don’t want to lose Althalus or Lyn, but if I can’t control this...I will.”[/color] Mar tried to push away her emotions but felt them surge forward again, her body trembling. Her fingers dug into her shoulders and her head pushed upon the soil, her eyes closed to stop the anger rising up inside her.  

Tyrael’s hand reached out to touch Mar’s. [b]”Do not fear failure. To give into fear is to let it control you. You may fall… But you will rise. ”[/b] That was Tyrael’s first mistake: Thinking that failure was the end. it was certainly going to be a hard path; people will be hurt. Emotions wills be revealed and there was no denying that someone was going to suffer. But it was a gradual change. Tyrael does not expect immediate change. It will be slow, it will be painful… But time heals. And Tyrael knows that Mar would be able to survive. Because if she doesn’t do this, she’ll be eaten alive by her own mind. [b]”Release your anger Mar. It is not malice, it is not vengeance. It is your fear manifested into the will to act. I understand your fury. You must allow it to pass, not cage it and hope it expires. Come at me. Show me your wrath.”[/b] Tyrael was taking a big risk, but Mar needed to take baby steps. She needed to show him, in a way she understands, exactly how she feels. Only then would Tyrael be able to slowly get her to adapt words with her actions.

Mar flinched when her body tried to react, her nails digging into her skin as she tried not to strike at him. She wanted to curl up into a ball and wait for the fire to pass, her anger settling in for a spell. Her hand jerked away instinctively so not to hurt him, his words trying to coax her into the worse course of action, her tail lashing at him just when they finished. She slapped her tail against the ground in warning.  [color=lightsalmon]”Tyrael, please, don’t I want to hurt you.”[/color]

This was getting sad now. Of all times, Mar was beating herself up instead of him. Either she was trying really worried about hurting Tyrael or Athalus was just naturally attackable. He heard her quiet whisper that she didn’t want to hurt him. [b]”And I don’t want you to hurt yourself…”[/b] He said softly. He sighed. Time to get hands on. [b][i]”Vorinclex, take over.”[/i][/b] 

Suddenly Tyrael reached out and sharpy grabbed both of Mar’s hands in his one, pulling them out of her skin. [b]”Pathetic. Do you take me as some mere mortal? If you will not face me, how can you protect anyone?”[/b]

Mar hadn’t heard Tyrael’s taunts because as soon as she felt his hands touch her, her tail jerked in response. It aimed to thump into his gut and with enough force that could easily send a human back several steps and breathless. It didn’t stop there when her tail began to coil about his leg. 

Tyrael let out a breath when he felt Mar’s tail slam into his gut. He could have braced himself and stood his ground, but even he knew that trying to resist a full thrust from Mar’s tail was going to leave him with either a nasty bruise or a hole in his chest. But he at least had a hold of her hands; tight enough that he could pull them out of her flesh. He allowed Mar’s blow to knock him back so he could pull Mar with her.

[b]”Tell me, is this anger or fear? Are these instincts or intentions? Answer me!”[/b] Tyrael knew that when it came to grappling normally he could crush his opponents easily. But nagas had better flexibility on him, and if he wasn’t so big Mar could have easily coiled her entire tail around him. But the last thing he should do is let go of her. He had no weapons and Mar easily had a reach advantage over him. He was going to need to do something dirty. As Mar’s body slammed into his, he let go of his hold on her hands and wrapped his arms around her from behind, quickly closing into a tight clench. A bear hug from behind. Or a bear hug from hell. Tyrael needed to hold Mar closely, as any space between him and her would give her tail room to coil around him and crush him. He’s seen it happen before. It is quite impressive, and occasionally gory. 

Mar’s words started, her warning cut in its infancy, when Tyrael grabbed her.  Her body slammed hard into his causing her to snarl and shriek in surprise as her tail whacked out at his side front. She was foiled when he wrapped about her in a bear hug causing her torso to thrash back against his. His words cried in her ears, her fangs came out. Her head twisted back and body leaned to one side, her fangs trying to reach for his neck. [color=lightsalmon]”Why do you care?’[/color] 

Holding on to Mar as tightly as he could Tyrael did his best [i]not[/i] to sprout spikes to impale her. But feeling her open mouth brush against his shoulder, he was tempted to armor his skin so she couldn’t sink her poison into him. But that would mean defeat on his part. He had been trying to hard to get Mar to open up, to speak to him, so what would it mean if he covered himself in armor to block her venomous words? He would have been a hypocrite and worse, he’d be lying to Mar and himself. Perhaps it was time to show Mar what he means by releasing emotions. He needed to set an example for her. 

Mar’s body jerked back as her eyes narrowed. Her head twisted back and her arms pulled, trying to work herself loose. Her hips turned only to be met by his frame preventing her from dislodging from his grip, his fingers digging in deep enough to stop her but not enough to draw blood. Her tail jerked about to aid her movement. The tip slashed across the dress sending it into the den entrance where it cracked, drawers lopsided and frame cracked. She whipped it back where it clipped the chair where Tyrael had been, sending it backwards into the wall beside her. It broke apart on contact. However, his word slowed her movements when they reach her ears. 

[b]”It’s because I love you Mar. I want to make sure you are happy, and it hurts more than blades to see you like this.”[/b]

Tyrael continued to hold onto Mar, but he soften a bit. His skin was not so rough, no as callous and hard as it was before. He was taking a risk now trying to lower his defenses, but he needed to show Mar what it meant to speak one’s feelings. He hated using himself as an example, but for her, he would do everything within his power.

Mar’s rage and anger, still boiling under the surface, her fangs retracted slowly. Though her emotions still twitched under her skin and begged to pour out, her heart hammering hard against her chest.  

[b]”I came to the college to grow stronger, not as a mage, but as a person as well. I left the ravine because I had spent 300 years in conflict with demons and monsters. I… I wanted to feel more than hostility and malice. But it was all I knew, and like you, my only defense was to be stoic. And then… Then I learned what would happen if I left my emotions unchecked. I went insane, worse than malice because I did not know what I did was wrong. I was so blinded by my foolishness… That I threatened the entire college and had to be nearly killed for it.”[/b]

He never talked much about what he did at the college. It was for the best; while he certainly proved to be one of the best Demonomancers they’ve had so far, and one of the only few who has ever been so involved in the politics of the Inferno, it was not a position he earned without many mistakes. But now Mar needed to see those mistakes. See who he really was, past the armored carapace.
 
[b]”It took the lost of my lover, and for the combined forces of Khan and the other teachers to sent me on the right path. It took a long time, long before I had come to find you. But if they had not steered me in the right direction, I would not have been here. I would have been a demon, a monster who would have preyed on the innocent and damned. And even then I have made scars that still hold over today. Lucilia and I… We used to be friends until my inability to control my emotions turned us against each other. Now we’ve become bitter enemies, and it is my fault. We are alike Mar, you and I. But I do not want you to fall on my path. I do not want you to have to lose Althaus, for me to fight you, or for you to lose Lyn because of petty emotions. They are great and powerful things that should be cherished and you should embrace them, instead of hiding them away or keeping them a secret for yourself. Share them with others, with those you love and care for. Let yourself be happy around others, instead of only being happy by yourself.”[/b]

Tyrael’s grip on Mar loosen. She could escape him easily now, subdue him even with his guard dropped. He had released his barriers and unleashed his feelings onto Mar. Now he’ll have to see how she would react to his “attack”.

Tears salted her eyes, making them sting and her vision blurry. Her body’s emotion was already being drained physically she just settled into the fallen orc’s grip, her own frame unsteady enough to hold herself. [color=lightsalmon] “You didn’t feel your people die, Lyn and I felt it. We both reacted differently. I was edgy and irritated, Lyn just cried for their misery, both sensing their pain. I knew something was wrong. I did nothing. Even if I had no home to go back to, it was.. it was still apart of me. I should’ve done something.”[/color]

Her tail was still twitching and jerking with each word, though thanks to Tyrael’s grip she managed to keep it center. Rather than rip apart the Den. 

[b]”How do you think I feel about it? Mesa Gaan was my home too; the Ravine was where I lived, but it was the naga who accepted me for who I was. Even amongst the demons of the Ravine… I was just a tool. A nobody. The naga took me in and allowed me to become part of their home despite being an outsider. That is why they allowed me to take you here. And to hear that they are gone… Another home lost. But there is still you… And Lyn… And the college.”[/b]

Tyrael let his grasp on Mar go, only onto her only to keep her steady. Mesa Gaan may have only been a small part of his life, but it had more meaning to him then the 300+ spent in the Ravine or under the service of an Archdemon. Even his time at the college was simply the most recent event in his life. If it hadn’t been for the Nagas allowing him to remember what peaceful interaction was like, things would have been much more dire at the college. They had their faults, but no one was perfect. And for Tyrael they were family.

[b]”It is okay to be angry Mar. To be sad. It is… Natural. No one could hear things like that and feel nothing. Even I… Even I feel as though I was useless. I am a professor of Demonomancy. I rule seven planes in the Inferno. Yet I cannot even protect the college, or even you. And… And that makes me so frustrated. And much more desperate to make sure that those I love are protected. And that they understand what I am going through.”[/b]

Tyrael felt something fall from his face. He touched it and saw nothing. But more fell, and he realized it was tears. Tears. Even the devil may cry. [b]” Marya… You are all I have left of pleasant memories. I can not bare to think of a future if you are gone. Knowing that for all my might, I could not even save the one person who means to most to me right now. Please… Tell me your frustrations. Let me hear, and help you, to understand what makes you so angry. Please?”[/b]

Mar just stood there, her anger fading with her temperatum as her energy fade, her arms dropped to her side. Her rage and bitterness faded with the lashing out though the damage had been contained. Her back just leaned against him, her mind fitted on what to do or say, before finally speaking.  “You want to know than you better settle in.” 

With that, she told him everything.
[/hider]


There were times he wished for the simpler life. Where he didn't have to be concerned about routines and schedules and events. Back in the days where he could actually only make one or two swords a week, but they would have been magnificent blades with meaning and purpose, instead of the 1000+ meaningless swords that needed to be shipped out later this week. But he put those thoughts aside. There were faults about his life now, sure, but also things he wouldn't want to loose. Putting the book into his dusty drawer Tyrael went to make himself look presentable.

It had been a hectic week. He had nearly forgotten about Baulder and Myrn's task to bring him lobsters, but fortunately they did and even brought spares. Some were dead, but there were enough alive for him to use. He paid them appropriately. But while Myrn was paid in gold, Baulder had a more specific reward. As one of his students Tyrael informed Baulder of the rules of Demonomancy on the college, and during the few days they had classes he would teach him and Colette about Demonomancy. For Baulder specifically, he needed a weapon to defend himself when his demons would inevitably try to kill him. And since Baulder had done him a service before, Tyrael made him not one, but two kukris of demon bane. He doubt Baulder had the aptitude to dual wield even small blades, but that was his problem, not Tyrael's. 

And aside from his students there was also the feast. Tyrael loathed to be part of the feasts as he had absolutely no one to talk to, but he needed to represent the college's Demonomancy ability. He would have said that Khan could easily fill in as his replacement, but the fallen orc knew that Khan had other obligations to handle, and it's not as thought Tyrael would have anything to do today anyways. They already have all the supplies they need for the feast itself, so there was no need for hunting. And the forge was closed, so there was no work to be done. His demons were being quite efficient in the Inferno so there was no need for him to be there. All there was to do was rehearsals. 

After the last few... Disasters, the teachers had chose to coordinate their demonstrations together. Tyrael was loathed to use his magic for mundane things until it was pointed out that he did use his magic for mundane things: Like having his demons serve on the Brahmasta, slave labor, and raw material. He tried to defend these statements but he begrudgingly gave in. So he had been rehearsing his routine with the likes of Joseph, Justine, Lucilia, and Satori. It was tedious and boring to him, but it was just part of the job. He was at least willing to put up with this charade of pleasantries until later: He had spoken to Khan a few days before about taking a day off, which Tyrael intends to use to spend time with Lyn. Despite how much he adores her, he has rarely found the time to spend time with the little girl. Once the feast passed without incident, he'll be allowed to forget about work and spend a day with Lyn, forgetting about hardships and suffering.

And to that end Tyrael needed to get dressed. Normally he wore nothing. He would simply wash and show up as is. It wasn't as though he had anything vulgar to show, but he was told to dress to impress. At least they would allow him to use armor as his formal attire. He was told to dress "Knightly", so simply us usual war regalia wasn't going to work. He had to dig through his armory for something he could refit and found an [url=http://i.imgur.com/REeddPp.jpg]old suit[/url] back when he was dabbling with rune magic. Plated steel with an rune of Illusion on it that gave him the appearance of wings, which of course could not function as such. He'd have to squeeze into it, but he could fit and don it himself well enough. He had a sword to go with it which he put into a sheath on his belt. Best of all was the helmet; full faced so he people wouldn't judge his appearance. Despite his position, Tyrael does his best to be low key. Last thing he wanted was for people of power to know who he was. To know who he [i]really[/i] was. 

Tyrael would parade around in this armor for a while, at least for most of this morning. Despite his multitude of abilities he still needed time to adapt to this old suit. Leaving the office Tyrael decided to go see if Mar had awoken yet. No doubt Lyn might be initially afraid of this stranger in strange armor, so Tyrael wanted to make sure she too was aware of his current attire.

[color=crimson][i][b][center]Lucilia Riovas[/center][/b][/i][/color]

All work and no play made Lucilia a dull girl, but this was just business as usual. New students coming in, mission reports to read, operatives to send, information was flowing in and out of Lucilia's office like water in the ocean. But she was able to deal with it all after she took a swig of coffee, downed a shot of Dragon Fire, and drained a bucket of fresh blood. That mixture being one of Lucilia's personal cocktails known as "[i]No Regrets[/i]". Fortunately the last bit of work related news Lucilia got was from a new student.

[hider=Summer's Introduction]
[b][i][center][color=crimson]Lucilia Riovas[/color] & Summer Flores[/center][/i][/b]
 
After storing the wagon into the stables Myrn went up to Summer. ”Alright Summer, first order of business is getting you a room. First we’ll talk to a lady name Lucilia who’ll give you a room. Then you will find out what your classes will be and such. I’d stay and help but I need to get those lobsters over to another teacher. Please follow me!” Myrn then lead Summer to the teacher’s office. It took her a little while since she got lost but eventually found the hall where she got attacked by those vine creatures. Walking past that room she then knocked on Lucilia’s office. 

 
As they went to the teacher's office, she took the chance to look at her surroundings with a awe look in her spring green eyes before looking at Myrn knocked in a door. Summer used her hands to smooth out her dress and her long red hair and stood straight waiting for the door to be open. 
 
Soon the door opened, and on the otherside was Lucilia. She had reorganized her documents and thought that Rurik or someone else was going to show up. To her surprise it was Myrn and a new girl. [color=crimson]"Oh? A guest? Welcome, come on in, take a seat. My name is Lucilia Riovas. To whome do I owe the pleasure of speaking to?"[/color]
 
"Hello miss Lucillia I am Summer Flores. I was rescued from a tower that I was living in for 8 years" Summer said with manners her green eyes meeting Lucillia.
 
[color=crimson]"Oh my? Eight years?"[/color] Lucilia intially thought perhaps Summer was a vampire; she certainly had the complextion for it. But Lucilia could not sense the infleunce of Aarem over the girl. However... There was some strong magical force emenating from her. This was going to need to be investigated. Still, Lucilia had far too many things to do today to worry about that now. Simply another thing she'd put on the plate.
 
[color=crimson]"Well then, I'm glad that one of our own found you. The College normally only takes in mages, but we can spare a room for you in the dormitories if you'd like. If you are capable of magic however, we cal also provide you education on your magical arts. Do you have any Mageblood?"[/color]
 
Summer's eyes went far as she thought of the day she discovered she had magic ten years ago and she nodded. "Yes but my mother sealed it in this crown I have on my head. My powers are uncontrolled and doesn't know the limits of stopping. It is fatal for me." Summer said.
 
Well, that solved one mystery. Indeed, mageblood, in the hands of a novice, was a dangerious thing for both the mage and everyone else. Summer's mother was right to seal off her powers to prevent her from harming herself. But why was she locked up for 8 years? Still, this was something the college could help her with. Taking out a thick folder full of the usual papers, Lucilia smiled and slid it over to Summer. [color=crimson]"Well then, you've come to the right place. The College will ensure your health and safety, as well as teaching you how to control your powers. Here are some documents you'll need to read, sign, and turn in to me as soon as possible. They'll help me keep track of your progress and put you under the protection of the college. There isn't any classes currently, so if you'd like you may look around the college. I'll also be assigning you a dorm room so you'll have a place for the night. Your key and room number are in the folder. Is there anything else you'd like to ask me?"[/color]
 
Summer just had s couple concern but there is one major thing she was worried about. "Are you sure I should be trusted to use my magic? I was nearly killed by It by touching a dead flower." She said giving away what her magic was. She held the folder close to her chest as she looked at the older woman. "I'm not ready to die. I just became age for marriage." She said.
 
Lacing her fingers together Lucilia looked at Summer. It was understandable for her to be fearful. She mentioned that she nearly killed herself dealing with dead flowers; that immediately made Summer thing she was an herbamancer. Indeed, trying to revitalize dead plants was a very powerful spell for Herbmancy, one that novices cannot do without a lot of blood lost. [color=crimson]"Hmm... It is true that all magic is dangerous, whether it be herbmancy or necromancy. From controling the universal forces that control our world or simply opening a door, there is no such thing as a 'safe' magic. And thus here at the college, we learn how to use it properly, so that we can make sure that our magic is not used dangerously to ourselves or others. You are an herbamancer, no? I too am one. A master, and the professor in fact."[/color] 
 
Rummaging around her desk, Lucilia took out a blue vial. [color=crimson]"I understand your fears however. Take this; this is a mixture known as an Ether. Drinking it allows one to restore a bit of their mageblood. You should keep your crown on, but in the event that you must remove it, drink this potion afterwards to help revitalize yourself. Summer, Herbmancy is dangerous. But if you are not willing to control it, to use it, then it will always be dangerous to you. Do you understand?"[/color]
 
Summer nodded "Ok I will try. Perhaps this help me find my missing sister, if she is still alive that is."  She said sighing.
 
[color=crimson][i]"Sister?"[/i][/color] Lucilia thought to herself. Immediately she wanted to ask if she could help; but seeing the pile next to her, Lucilia knew she could not. So many others she also needed to help... It pained her to see this go unnoticed. But perhaps one day, Summer would find her sister. With the help of her friends and those closests to her. Taking a deep breath Lucilia took a portfolio off one of her files. Another incident in Eania...
 
Summer stood there reading this when she suddenly looked around blinking. "Hmm I wonder where my wolf companion is. He must be around outside the college." She said before shrugging and began to read again.
[/hider]

Unfortunately, there was other business that Lucilia had to deal with. Starting with Uicle.

Before the night's end the hollowed suit of armor arrived with Khan in tow. She could guess why they were here. Sure enough the conversation was about Lyn and what Lucilia did to endanger her. Lucilia tried to play down the act, mentioning the mission success and Lyn's ultimate survival, but that was brushed aside due to Lucilia's obviously irresponsible actions. While Lucilia was always an eccentric and, at times, harsh woman, neither of them could fathom a reasonable idea of why Lucilia would send what is essentially a child onto a mission where there was, at the minimum, the threat of a demon attack. Especially with someone like Alaira. Normally Lucilia would have [i]No Regrets[/i] about her actions but take whatever punishment which would be deemed appropriate... But looking at the Lucilia flower that laid on a stack of books, she was feeling guilt for her shortsightedness. Her punishment was fairly light considering that if anyone else knew they'd would, at the very least, try to stab her. Lucilia was to have an escort at all times for the next while to ensure that she does not negatively influence any more students, as well as to stay away from Lyn. There wasn't a minimal distance requirement, only that she would not approach the girl. If Lyn was to come to her, then her escort would need to convince Lyn that Lucilia cannot see her, or otherwise ensure that Lucilia simply isn't alone with Lyn. A bit extreme, Lucilia thought, but she suppose there were worse things.

And worse things were to come. There was also the matter of the feast within the next few days. After the events of the last two feasts, most of the teachers chose something more lighthearted. Tyrael mentioned that none of his demons will be in attendance, so they would need someone else to provide music. Satori could handle that using illusions. Afterwards the teachers collaborated with each other to practice their routine, which they would do sometime during the afternoon. Honestly Lucilia felt that she didn't need to do it considering that she could do even more impressive feats with less magic, but she was already walking on thin ice as it was. She could tell that Satori was trying to put aside Lucilia's thoughtless mistake but still holding it against her, and it was fairly obvious that Tyrael intended to harm her in some way within the near future. But that was business as usual. And today was just another day.

Lucilia had an entire wardrobe planned out for the feast. While she'll be seeing many old faces, she also knew that many newcomers would be arriving to this feast. New people always provided new opportunities, not that they were ever truly "New" to her. She typically screens the guest list and does an extensive background check, even on strangers and friends. You could never tell what your closest allies had done. Still, most of them check out, but the few who did have questionable records Lucilia had to accept out of courtesy. Mostly from Yarosmere and the orc holds. She doesn't really hear much news about them that would normally get the attention of the college; Oelik is often embedded in it's constant civil war and Torrin tries it's best to modernize without any fruit. Yarosmere is always on Lucilia's radar thanks to their extensive trade relations, but recent events like the naga attack (Which she was informed of by Tyrael) and the fact she's getting very little else. One would figure that ransacking the naga city of Mesa Gaan would be more important news, but it's treated almost as nothing more important then the execution of a common criminal. It smelled of a cover up to Lucilia, one she could hopefully uncover during the feast with the Yarosmere diplomat. 

After trying out many outfits Lucilia settles for one. She wouldn't ware it now of course; she needs to make sure it's prim and proper for the feast. She chose to dress in a more casual red robe with golden fleece. She also wore her comfortable but sturdy boots; she'll be in high heels for most of the night, and despite being a vampire of great and terrible power heels was still killer on her ankles. Accessorizing appropriately for such a casual look, Lucilia heard a knock on the door. Sighing she called out. [color=crimson]"I'll be there in a moment."[/color]

Lucilia figured that Khan or Uicle would send a demon or golem to watch over her, but instead her escort was typically a random student or guardsmen. And one of her hired ones too, not her homunculus. For the most part they don't really cause her any trouble. It helps that aside from a few incidents, most of what Lucilia does is a lot of clerical and bureaucratic work instead of say, experimenting on children. Though today she'd have to do very little in terms of teaching or experimenting, but much more about dealing with people. representatives had been arriving slowly these past few days, but most of them would be showing up tonight. Lucilia had to be present and welcome them. That and she was certain that Eania and Djarkel were going to come in with their full forces, simply due to the last feast. And she could never be certain with these newcomers....

Feeling that she's stalled her escort long enough Lucilia took one more swig of [i]No Regret[/i]. That was enough blood, alcohol, and caffeine to bring back the dead. Not really, but it was certainly a lot more then what most mortals could handle. Lucilia could actually feel it's effects. Finally popping a breath mint she went up to the door and opened it.

[color=a187be][i][b][center]Annabeth Gulch[/center][/b][/i][/color]

Between school and work, Annabeth was having a minor identity crisis. It first started about one day after she came back from the roc hunt. She met up with Satori at her extra lessons and asked to practice using her Ring of Silence with her illusions and try to figure out a workable system. For the most part while Annabeth certainly needed to work on her wards in tandem to her magic, she was able to do quiet a bit. An almost perfect invisibility combined with the utter silence. Annabeth could walk through a room of glass bottles and not be seen or heard, so long as she keeps the shattering to herself. But as proud as she was, she was feeling... Alone. She couldn't explain it. Satori was easily able to pick it up and asked her what was wrong.

Annabeth admitted that joining the college was a sudden thing. She never planned to actually attend. Granted, it was very enjoyable. She's made many friends, many memories, and overall became a better person then she was before. But at the same time... She felt like she had forgotten the whole reason why she was here. She was looking for her brother Rendar. He came here a few years ago to train his magic and eventually join the royal guards, but almost a year ago Annabeth received a message from the college that he had been gone. She came to find him and... Instead she ended up sort of taking his place. She had no idea how to think about this. She genuinely enjoyed what she has learned so far, but now she feels like she is empty. Like putting her brother aside so long and so easily left a hole in her person that she couldn't fill no matter what sort of experiences she has. She wanted.. Closure. But she had no idea how to get that.

Satori offered her sympathies. She understood that Annabeth was worried about her brother's welfare, and she knew (Even without reading her mind) that Annabeth worried if her brother was dead. Satori herself could not say honestly that she knew her brother very well or what happened to him. She also admits that it's not unusual for students to leave the college announced to pursue their own interests, and for the most part the college respects their privacy and allows them to leave with very little fuss. But she also ensured that Rendar, for the short amount of time Satori knew him, is an exceptional mage capable of great things. She at least knew of Rendar as he was one of the better Electromancy students back when he still attended and showed much promise as a mage. He even caught the eye of a few Eania representatives a while back when he announced his dream to join the royal guard. While Satori admits that it would have been best to at least inquire more about him, she's certain that even if he chose to leave the college, he would certainly be able to make it in the royal guards. 

The pink-haired mind reader then offered a suggestion to Annabeth; why not invite the rest of her family? While Satori knew Annabeth no longer had any close relatives, she was still on good terms with her aunts, uncles, and cousins. The college would be more then happy to accept the company of a student's family, and could provide lodging for them. Annabeth was quiet excited about this prospect. It was a chance to speak to her family again and show them that she has been working hard at college. Plus it would bring some sense of familiarity to her. Despite living here for almost a year, Annabeth still sometimes feels lost and generally unfamiliar with the college. She was certain that she hasn't even been in most of the buildings, let alone secret or hidden areas. Most students are unaware of Underhaven, let alone the other mysteries of the college. Having her family from home would help make herself feel at home.

That was a few days ago. Cut to now, and Annabeth was groggily getting up for the morning. She had spent last night working at Underhaven, dealing with the usual customers and then some. Representatives and guests from other nations have shown up, and looking for a place to get a stiff drink they show up to Underhaven. This actually made a lot of the usual vampire residents antsy as most of the patrons were actually Eania soldiers, since they arrived before the Djarkel ones could. And despite coming from the home of shining armor and paladins, they had a dim view of vampires and ultimately where as fallible as any other mortal. She's had more then her fair share of touchy patrons, braggarts who couldn't take no for an answer, and cheap stakes who believe "knowledge" and "skills" entitled them to free drinks. They were dealt with appropriately, but they were a constant feature. Once Annabeth's shift ended she got herself a bottle, returned to her room, and held a party of one. And now she was waking up from it's aftermath.

Her room was a mess to put it lightly. Ever since Cynn had left Annabeth has been bunking her alone. While Annabeth doesn't exactly have "Much" stuff as most women do, she simply was messy. Her clothing laid in orderly piles around her room, with books shoved in shelves or stacked out of the way of her footpath in no discernible organization. The only thing remotely tidy was her weapons and armor, which she at least took the time to buy a stand for. Not that she's been using any of it too often; she's been meaning to go out hunting but frankly has found very little time to do so. At most she goes with Satori to ride and communicate with horses. 

It was there that she learned that the horse she had relied on for much of the roc hunt was named Samson. Despite being a draft horse he seemed rather okay with being ridden on, and much more gentle then the last time they were together. Though to be fair this time they don't have a roc hunting after them, so perhaps this is Samson's natural side.

Annabeth stepped carefully around her room to her armor and weapons. Part of her thinks she shouldn't wear such things to the feast, but after the last one she was almost certain she should go fully equipped. Sure, Tyrael said that no demons would be able to enter the college so long as he still lived, but what if they simply took the old fashion route and walked here? What if some new threat decides to waltz to the feast and threaten everyone's lives? What if their demonstrations go horribly wrong and everyone ends up trying to kill each other? Annabeth was paranoid to say the least. But at the same time, she was also getting much better at defending herself. While she occasionally spends her morning trying to nurse a hangover like today, other times she'd be at the gym honing her swordsmanship. She's been learning how to handle bigger, heavier weapons from Ssarak, but also has taken many pointers from Grey. While both fight in a different weight class (Heavier then Annabeth), she was not graceful dancer herself. Sure her shield may be a buckler instead of a kite shield, and her axe may not quite be a polearm like Ssarak's, but she was much more force then finesse. Not that she couldn't use both; instead of blocking blows she parried or even disarmed with her buckler, and learning how to use an axe taught Annabeth there were more ways to fighting then to just hit them with the pointy end. She learned combat maneuvers like tripping, disarming, locking weapons, pinning them, and much more. She could do more then simply swing any old thing at her foe and hope they fall over. Heck, she could throw a fairly decent punch thanks to training with Meirin, though she was definitely more skilled at martial arts then Annabeth would ever be. 

Annabeth decided that she'd settle for carrying her dagger and her bow. She kept promising herself to go do some archery for once, since as her battle with the Roc showed, she's lost her touch with it. She could still hit a bulls-eye on a target with consistency, but shooting a painted hay bale, even at a 100 yards away, was much easier then hitting a small rabbit moving at full speed through a thick underbrush. That she could have done back at the farm, and now she has a hard time so much as trying to hit a rolling bale of hay. [color=a187be]"Okay Annabeth, first let's go do some archery! A little warm up at the range, and maybe if it isn't too late and I can find a partner, I could do a bit of hunting. I still want to make it back for the feast after all, and my family."[/color]

Annabeth's family were coming in today. A bit close considering that many other diplomats and representatives were also arriving today, though that was also their reasoning; it would be safer to travel in a large, well armed group protecting representatives then to go alone to the college. Still a very narrow margin however. Fortunately for Annabeth she wasn't expected to meet them until sometime after high noon, which gives her plenty of time to at least get some archery training in. Annabeth dressed in a casual pair of trousers, an orange tunic, and her sturdy-but-worn boots. She also kept her archery gloves on hand. Not the most protective gear, but at least if she was going to be using her bow a lot she might as well make sure she doesn't get more welts then necessary. She just had the blisters from the roc hunt healed yesterday. Once clothed, armed, and somewhat washed up (She had a wash tub in her room where she washes herself and her clothing) Annabeth took a deep breath and left her room.