[center][color=92278f][center][h3]Victor Astorio[/h3][/center][/color][/center]

[center][img]https://txt-dynamic.static.1001fonts.net/txt/dHRmLjU0LmYwMTcwYS5RbkpsWVdzZ1UydHBjQSwsLjIAAAAA/shlop.regular.png[/img][/center]
[center][sub]Dates: September 21st - October 7th[/sub][/center]

[hider=9/22: Solo]
[center][h3]Home hasn't changed[/h3][/center]
The ride back home wasn’t anything to worry about. Other than it being a long ride north into the Wilderness Mountains to their snowy fortress. One of the things he didn’t miss about this place was the lack of color. A hard place to live that breeds strong people and personalities. His father always liked the architecture of the past, old stone castles meant to look imposing and intimidating. The small city that surrounded it wasn’t much to look at either, the one thing holding this place together being an unbending pride and loyalty to the crown. 

Even as you walk along the city roads and gaze up at the dark and depressing landscape, you truly only see half the city. One thing about this place is all the life is underground, more so during winter. Massive tunnel and bunker networks span the city. An escape from the cold and bitter world above, at least down here you could start to see color and vibrant personalities. From the arenas to the city market, the underground city that his father built represents the pride of their family line. 

Yet he wasn’t here to play in the arenas or visit his old stomping grounds during his adolescents. No this time Victor was here to see his father and give a report on the happening’s at the school. The large reinforced doors of the castle gates swung slowly open, guards in full armor stood at nearly every entrance ready for anything. The car slowly came to a stop and the count left the warm confines of the car to the brisk air of the mountains. The main doors to the castle lay before him, beyond that a hallway lined with stone statues of hero’s long past, finally ending in his father’s meeting chambers.

To say he wasn’t anxious would be a lie. His father always made him feel on edge, like even the wrong word or look could get him killed. With every step that echoed through the polished stone and marble hallway, he could feel the eyes on him, from the maids to the very statues themselves and at the end of the hall sat his father on a stone chair that almost seemed like he never left.

Victor finally stopped walking just before the steps leading up to his father’s seat. With a low bow he looked back up at his father, [color=92278f]“Hello father, I have returned from the academy for a short time.”[/color]

A gruff ‘Hmm’ was all he got in return as the older vampire shifted in his seat. A glass half full of blood sat on the end of his dark oak and incredibly polished chair looking more like a throne than anything. His dark eyes peered out towards the young count. Physically smaller than victor but forever holding an air of arrogance you would expect from a bird of prey. The elder seemed to simply stare at him for what seemed like an eternity, [color=9e0b0f]“Report.”[/color]

The simple response was what he expected out the cold vampire. [color=92278f]“During my time I’ve only had rumors of red hand activity within the walls of the academy. A few instances of property destruction relating to collars and leashes but nothing more. I am currently following up with a few trails that lead to a small social gathering of mind mages but I have not found anything more.”[/color]  He paused for a moment to continue. [color=92278f]“The events of the night of the revel were all conspired by one exiled vampire looking for revenge. Rynner had wronged her and she wanted to hit her where it hurts. I was the one that executed her.”[/color] 

Still his father didn’t move to acknowledge anything he said. A female voice came from behind his chair, [color=00aeef]“he doesn’t seem to be lying Master.”[/color] A slender mage dressed very conservative stepped out from behind the chair and took a seat on the floor to the side of the throne. The white haired girl had her hair cut short an inch above her shoulders, blue eyes peering down at him. She was skinny and one would be hard pressed to find any blemishes or marks on her face or arms.

The Ice mage known as Sasha was very familiar to him. The presence of her so close to his father annoyed him but what could he do to save a brainwashed mage. Even if he did he had nowhere to go with her. The daughter of his old mage, Sarah would not be pleased if she were still alive to know who she was attending too. Just another way his father knew how to keep him on a short leash. 

[color=9e0b0f]“You are dismissed, I expect a full report from your time there to be added to our records.”[/color] The old vampire spoke letting Victor leave to settle in. 

His father never spoke to him much, only orders no idle chit chat or talks of political strategy. The old man was still just as paranoid as he had left him. Turning in the direction of his old room, Victor only once glanced back towards Sasha. The mage he had to save, but doing so would mean burning his family to the ground. He could only hope that this could be accomplished while she was still alive.

Finding his way back to his old room he found it to be clean and orderly like always. There was a few things here he hoped to do before he went back but for now finishing this report and retiring for the morning seemed to be the only thing on his mind. At least they were kind enough to leave a couple bottles out for him this time. Picking up a pen and gathering some papers at his desk Victor set to work writing down his report.
[/hider]

[hider=9/23: Solo]
[center][h3]Cradle of the Moon[/h3][/center]
The next night Victor headed out into the forest. His journey would take a day to get to the destination then he would spend the next few days there. The only thing he took with him was a double supply of blood kept in canteens. With the cold night air there wasn’t any risk of it spoiling over the next few days as long as he kept it with him. 

Dressed in his usual attire the sky was just beginning to show stars when he left. The fading light of day only slightly annoying as he journeyed out of the city and into the thick pine forests. There was no trail to follow, no markers guiding his way. If it wasn’t for the many times he had traveled this way so long ago then he would have at least brought a compass. Victor knew where he was going and nothing was going to stop him from reaching his haven, the moons cradle. 

The trek there was rather uneventful the only creatures brave enough to come close to him were a pack of wolves. They never came to close, just followed him in the darkness for a little while before going off on their own. All the other wildlife he encountered got one good look or sniff of him and bolted. He was well aware he was alone out this far, the scent of human and vampire had yet to come across him on his adventure. It was finally peaceful, no noise or mark of human or vampire.

The entrance to the haven was easy to miss, they wanted it that way. It looked like a rock slide but moving one of the boulders revealed a path back into the mountain. The damp dark cave was cold as always but he didn’t mind. Traveling further through the mountain he finally found it, scribbles on the walls said so much. Running his hand over them he smiled, notes, quotes, poems, dreams, and memories. All things said and done engraved into the stone like organized graffiti. 

Rounding the corner he could see a few familiar things. An old blanket and sleeping bag tattered and faded, a few broken drinking glasses, an old camp stove and a few other odds and ends. The walls here have been dug into making shelves. Sat upon these shelves were dozens of small stone and crystal sculpture’s, some shaped as hearts, animals, the sun and the moon, and a few that look like people the finer details withered away. The sun was completely up now, he could see it shown through some small cracks and holes down the way he came.  Victor figured here would be as good of a place as any to set up shop and sleep for the day.

The one thing he did enjoy here was that the days were shorter. Nothing seemed to bother in the night and he was always weary of being followed to this place. It was special for him. He grabbed his bag and approached one of the walls to the cave placing his hand on the stone wall. With a forced sigh the count pushed into the wall seemingly phasing through it leaving no damage or trace behind. He could not hear or see what was around him but he knew where he was going. 

This gift that he had, he knew it wasn’t normal his own father saying as much. The threat alone of being destroyed just for having it was enough to keep him silent about it. However, it allowed him to be far more able in his hunting ability and getting into place others could not. For instance, this place he had just entered. The hidden grove in the mountain, the cradle of the moon. Stepping forth into a very strange place. 

A small open air cave, inside it was grass, a few small shrubs, and one small tree. The ceiling of this place was simply stars but a peculiar rock formation above almost seemed to cradle the full moon. This place was warmer than the surrounding area and almost a little brighter. A large stone slab that fell off the wall lay to one side of the grove with a small hot spring on the opposite side of the clearing bubbling and steaming away. In the middle under the small oak tree sat a shrine. A small pedestal made of stacked rocks and on top of it a stone figure of a woman. It was not weathered like the others and sheltered by a bend in the tree. Extremely fine detail was put into it, someone put a lot of care into it. 

Approaching the small shrine and placing a candle in front of it, Victor lit it and knelt down in front of the candle. [color=92278f]“Hello Sarah, it’s been quite a while since I’ve been here now. It would seem that trying to run from your memory only drew me back here.”[/color] The smile on his face did not fall as he spoke to the small statue. [color=92278f]“I’ve recently been accepted into the Noila academy. You would like it there, it’s not oppressive like it is here. We could have been free.”[/color] Another pause and sigh, [color=92278f]“I have a new mage now as well, his name is Salem. He is a bright young man that has a lot of similar views that you had, just not that great of a filter. He’s a plant mage with a lot of room to grow if he sets his mind to it and doesn’t think about it too much. His second guessing himself is going to get him in trouble but I’m trying to push him past that.”[/color] 

[color=92278f]“there’s another mage there as well that you would have had a lot of fun with, Lillie looks nearly identical to you and she’s a water mage, and is equally clumsy just like you were. I’m sure you two would have gotten into a lot of trouble. The other nobles are what I expected them to be, Varis is cunning, smart, and patient. You would not like him and I have to be wary of him and his mage I don’t think I can trust that boy to keep anything from him. I haven’t really met the other two yet but I’m sure they will be fun too.”[/color] Pausing for a moment to wipe some blood from his eye. [color=92278f]“I’ve met Eris a few times, you know that actor you were always gushing over. You called him one of the three vampires you were allowed to cheat on with. Hess’s a little annoying in public but he seems alright in private. One of these days I’ll get around to seeing one of those movies you always liked.”[/color]

A short pause while a light breeze twisted and twirled the steam off the hot spring. [color=92278f]"I really do miss you. I wish you could still be here, maybe then our lives could have been different. I will keep my promise to you, both of them. I will protect your daughter, even if right now I’m doing a horrible job. And I will burn my family to the ground. It’s just going to take a little bit longer.”[/color] He sighed and stood with a smile. [color=92278f]“I love you Sarah, you will always have my heart. You were the only one who could ever warm it.”[/color]

With that he found a spot to sit in the middle of the opening taking out a canteen and placing it next to him. With a few deep breaths he began to meditate. Pushing the thoughts of his past back into the depths of his mind, he began to go over what Ryner had taught him the night she tore his arm off.
[/hider]

[hider=Memory: Victor and Ryner]
[center][h3]Lessons in Blood[/h3][/center]
Students were politely required to leave the Arena shortly after their class, barely enough time to train before guards ushered them out. Dracion himself stood out front the building, standing watch for those idiotic, or suicidal, enough to attempt to ignore the Princess’s word. A few did attempt, nosey students and a faculty member shape shifting in an attempt to scour the inside for why Princess Ryner would need the Arena for herself. No exceptions, the campus wide notice had said.

Except for one.

The Astorio dorm received a long winded missive from Princess Ryner detailing her disappointment in the count’s actions during the first self defense class. Students were meant to teach and support each other and that included respecting the physical limitations of his mortal classmates. Princess Ryner requested Count Victor’s attendance at the Arena that morning and suggested he ought to wear something he wouldn’t miss. It wasn’t an optional summons. 

Ryner stood in the middle of the sands, hands clasped tightly behind her as she waited with her eyes closed. Her hair was done in a tight spiral braid and pinned so it wouldn’t move and she wore a short sleeved athletic shirt and shorts, an unusual choice for the Princess. The sand glittered with sixteen glass bottles of blood half buried in the sand. A mage stood at the edge of the Arena, the woman dressed in Noila finery with a chair next to her.

Victor arrived to the stadium doors five minutes early in his normal attire. He seemed to hesitate at the door as he glanced at the mountain next to him. A simple nod was all he gave the man as he handed him a small leather pouch and stepped inside. Inside the pouch contained what he had been working on for the last few days. As an apology, the count had carved the instructors likeness into a block of ivory with the same stance he had at the door. The earth mage was carved staring down at a faceless humanoid shape buried to its shoulders in the ground.

The large doors closed heavy behind him while he stepped up to the arena sands and the princess that stood in the middle. Victor approached the sands with purpose stopping at the edge and kneeling in front of her, a tradition that he was unsure if the other vampires still practiced it had been sometime since he was in the presence of the queen or one of her daughters, [color=92278f]“Your Highness.”[/color] speaking in his usual montone before standing straight. [color=92278f]“I apologize for my transgression, I should not have assumed that my father has spy’s here.”[/color] he glanced around at the bottles of blood and the other human for a moment then back to her, [color=92278f]“I believe I will be paying for that mistake in blood.”[/color]

[color=bc8dbf]"I doubt I need to chastise you over the blatant disrespect you showed a fellow student and my Arena Master earlier this week. You will not behave in that way again."[/color] Ryner turned to face the Count, her face blank but her eyes pitch black. [color=bc8dbf]"However, I noticed an interesting detail in my report. "An enemy gone but not forgotten; an enemy that forged the treaty we follow…" I can only think of one [i]enemy[/i] you are referring to but I'll admit I am confused. Those issues were solved far before your time so perhaps you can enlighten me. What can a hunter hope to teach of a fight he never saw?"[/color]

[color=92278f]“The Strigois clan was always tasked with the most dangerous missions during the war. We were not the most popular because of our unflinching loyalty to the crown.”[/color] Slowly he took his jacket off, folding it neatly and placing it on the side of the ring. [color=92278f]“Our old records detail Lycan’s without edit or redaction. Records that few are able to access. Depictions of the beasts, their habits, the way they move, how they hunt, entire books dedicated to their pack tactics and how to apply those same tactics and fighting skills to our own hunting methods.”[/color] slipping off his shirt and again folding it slowly revealing yet again his painful past. [color=92278f]“There is even a set of armor in your armory that i'm sure you're aware of, bearing the seal of lord Pierion. There are two or three sets of that armor in existence for obvious reasons.”[/color] placing the shirt on top of his jacket and slipping off his shoes. 

[color=92278f]“That armor is made to look and move like they do. With the help of some willing but dramatic guards and a good illusion mage one could very easily reenact how dangerous they are. A good reminder to those vampires and students who have forgotten the reason why the treaty was struck in the first place.”[/color] pulling off his family sigil from around his neck. The urge he had been quelling all day seemed to be getting the best of him he took a moment longer to pull out the small flask from his jacket and take a small swig from it. After he put it away and he was satisfied with the organization, he stepped into the ring with her.

[color=bc8dbf]“Excellent. You’ve read scrolls and books and other scholarly endeavors, pieced it all together, and produced some facade of a wolf.”[/color] Ryner reviewed, dryness seeping into her voice, her eyes evaluating Victor’s scars. [color=bc8dbf]“Congratulations. You’re dedicated; commendable if it wasn’t so poorly guided. Obsession with an enemy come and gone, pursuing a singular goal of reminding people why a treaty exists through the inane resurrection of ghosts and fear. Typical Astorios. No wonder your family was granted a place in their House.”[/color]

[color=bc8dbf]“This nonsense stops today. I will not have you terrifying my students with your fixation when I highly doubt you’re prepared to handle one. Mages and vampires alike were consumed. The monsters were bothersome at first, little more than a nuisance. But they multiplied so fast. They adapted to our hunts, learned to shift only parts of themselves or in the blink of an eye, and they ate us. They would devour us in minutes.”[/color] Ryner approached Victor, looking up at him with deadly intent as the horrors of memories playing in her mind’s eye cause a few twitches at the corner of her lips and her voice steadily grew louder into a booming crescendo. [color=bc8dbf]“They infected those we fed on, sickening us, crippling us, and then turning on us. Your safe spots, your dusty tomes, your practice are nothing compared to what we went through to combat them. I was there, I ripped their beating hearts out of their chests, I watched mage and vampire alike torn to shreds over and over and over again. I found and bled and killed, killed those I feared, those I trusted, those I loved, because nothing was right, nothing was what it was, nothing was as it seemed, and you have the [i]audacity[/i] to walk into [i]my[/i] territory, manipulate [i]my[/i] people, hurt [i]my[/i] students, in the name of horrors [i]I[/i] saw and lived? This isn’t a punishment, Strigoi. I’ve called you here to educate you. The Council has granted me special permission to teach you the old methods of blood manipulation through the ancient ways. Training that hasn’t seen the light of night in centuries. The ways Lord Pieron taught us shortly after we turned. Of course, these bottles would have been mortals but it all works the same.”[/color] Ryner didn’t give Victor the time to react. One moment she was yelling at him and then next her fingers were shattering his shoulder and tearing his limbs off with cold, calculated, and practiced movements before kicking him across the sands like he was little more than a paper ball. Victor’s blood decorated the Princess now and she absently wiped a bit off her face with her clean hand and brought it to her lips, tongue darting out to taste it.

[color=bc8dbf]“One week after our turning, Lord Pieron would take us out into the wilds and tear us apart limb from limb, tossing our broken bodies in random directions. Anything that touched the ground was gathered up and burned and he moved onto the next limb. It took months at that age to regrow a limb.”[/color] Ryner tossed Victor’s missing arm up and down, much like Varis with the egg he always brought to treaty law before she held up her hand, signalling Ella to hold, and dropped the limb. She tore her own limb off with stoic indifference, now matching Victor, but blood didn’t fall. Instead, the blood that should be dripping from her wounds shot out like cables and hooked back into her shoulder, dragging the detached limb back into place and she rolled the damaged shoulder with ease. She picked up Victor’s arm and gave Ella the okay. [color=bc8dbf]“This is an advanced technique but I’m sure with all your skill and experience, it should only take you a year or so to catch on. The blood bottles around are for you to replenish if you need to. Of course, I won’t stop your training but that’s a problem you’ll have to consider. There are only two guidelines here. Attack my mage and I kill you on the spot. If your missing limb touches the sand, it will be set on fire immediately.”[/color] Ryner’s smile was razor sharp as she tossed the limb straight up in the air. [color=bc8dbf]“Lets see if you can get past me, Strigoi.” [/color]

He didn't speak while the princess picked his beliefs apart and gave him a lesson on the war. He was foolish, he knew this, to try and convince someone like her why he was the way he was. Giving him a history lesson he had heard time and time again, obviously being so relaxed about the subject at hand was not the proper approach after all he wasn't at home anymore. 

He didn't see it or feel it at first he was just suddenly rolling across the sand to the other side of the arena. Laying there for a few moments as she continued to talk about her training with lord Pieron. The throbbing pain in his shoulder made him very much aware of what had happened. With his other hand instinctively holding his shoulder where his arm had once been. The council gave her permission to teach him this blood technique? So she got permission to do this to me? A few realizations in his mind made him just so much more aware of how dangerous this was going to be. 

Victor watched as she tore her own arm off and was admittedly amazed at what happened next. No blood or sign of pain just this blood control which nearly negated the need for limb regeneration or surgical reattachment. Glancing to the bottles around him and back to her, there was no more question now. He knew he was in for a serious fight with an elder vampire. A fight he hadn’t been through since his own father would fight him and nearly destroy him.

The last mention of the rules made him shift his stance, the look in her eyes said only one thing to him, one thing he was used to seeing the reverse of. For the first time in a very long time he found himself being the prey and he was staring at his hunter. The Astorio was quite aware that he couldn't beat her, even at his best she would still win every time.

Victor shifted his stance and let go of his shoulder, eyes turning black, muscles tensed, all of his senses on point as he readies himself for his own slaughter. Just because she could easily overpower him doesn't mean he won't try his best. [color=92278f]“My price to pay.”[/color] the only whisper that escaped him while he waited. When she finally tossed his arm he waited just a few moments before he bolted towards the princess. Keeping his posture low while attempting to get behind her. The lack of an arm made him expose his bloodied side of him in an attempt to better protect the arm he still had. 

Ryner watched, her stance relaxed. Her only reaction to his statement was a lifted eyebrow but otherwise she ignored it. Her face was emotionless as he rushed past her, taking a moment to look up at the falling limb and shrug, before she slotted herself against his back, wrap her hands around his stomach, and flipped him backwards into the ground, releasing a second before he made contact to roll out of the throw and pop back onto her feet. She gave him the out as she instead used him as a springboard to jump up and grab the limb, tossing it back the way he came. And just for good measure, she slammed her foot into a nearby bottle. 

[color=bc8dbf]“That’s where Perion would kill a person just to horrify us.”[/color] She informed Victor and nodded at the flying limb. [color=bc8dbf]“I’d fetch that quickly, unless you don’t want your arm back.”[/color]

Again it seemed to take a moment for him to recuperate from the sudden attack. The princess definitely outclassed him, faster, stronger, more durable, and more experienced. If this wasn't training he was sure she would kill him without a second thought probably before he even knew what happened to him. He glanced momentarily at his limb before returning his gaze back to her. What she had been taught and what she had been taught was definitely harsh but that was what one should expect from lord pierion.

Kneeling for a moment longer Victor launched himself back and up toward his severed arm. Catching it in the process only to look back at the princess to throw it at her head. He was using it as a distraction, a move he knew would cost him that limb. With the limb halfway to her he lunged at her, using his powerful muscles to propel him through the air. He was sure this wasn't going to end well but he had to try to go on the offensive eventually. After all, he was aiming to strike her with his momentum and his good shoulder and fist into her stomach.

Ryner gave him a flat look as the attack connected but otherwise didn’t react. She moved less than half a foot back in the sand before grabbing his head and slamming him face first into the sand. She put her knee right in the middle of his back, pressing [i]hard[/i]. She weight far more than she looked, a mountain in the body of a woman, and very little would move her once she decided to move. She yanked his head back so he could watch his dismembered limb hit the sands. 

The mage at the edge of the sands, Ella, had been watching stiffy as the gruesome show played out, but her focus did not lapse. The arm had just barely brushed the sand when it burst into flame, cremated in an instant and leaving behind only a plume of putrid smoke and a small pile of ash. 

[color=bc8dbf]“This is a survival exercise, Strigoi. Attacking a werewolf head on without everything in working order would have ended in your death even if you managed to kill the damn thing. Stop thinking with your damn muscles. Outlast your opponent. We don’t get tired, Strigoi. Werewolves are many things but they are still [i]mortal[/i].”[/color] Ryner lifted him from the ground and flipped him,just to slam him back on the ground. [color=bc8dbf]“I’ll place nice this time.”[/color] Ryner got her hand around his right knee and tore his lower leg off before tossing him across the sands again. [color=bc8dbf]“This time, get your body back or I may very well end up killing you.”[/color] She tossed it straight up in the air again, resetting the game. 

The princess was nothing like anything he had ever faced. An immovable object one moment and an unstoppable force the next. Even with all his might she barely moved, didn't even seem phased by his strike. The realisation of this just cemented his fears more and more about how powerful she truly was and how much she was holding back. More than likely she could predict his moves, see him moving at full speed as if it was a slow jog, pick apart and deduce his fighting style with no issue. She was an elder, elders did not just hide away. power and age grow hand in hand.

Victor didn't even see her move more than one step back. One measly step back was all she did and suddenly he was being flung around like he weighed literally nothing. Pinned with no other option he watched and waited to see what his punishment would be. A scolding and the loss of another limb, or at least half a limb. His lower right leg was gone in nearly an instant and again he found himself flung across the ring.

Picking himself up with his one good arm to his knees, his eyes scanning for his lost limb. 

[color=bc8dbf][i]“I may very well end up killing you”[/i][/color] 

Her voice echoed in his head. A stern and unforgiving warning. Staying true to his [i]‘i can survive anything nature’[/i] all he could do to say in return as his eyes locked onto his lost limb, [color=92278f]“Tis but a flesh wound.”[/color] as he lunged towards his severed limb. This time however he was aiming to land away from her in a roll and attempt to land near the broken bottle of blood so that he may be able to use some of it to try and use this technique she briefly showed him.
[/hider]

[hider=9/23: Solo]
[center][h3]Training Montage[/h3][/center]
Reliving the ass beating of a century really makes you think about your life and how far you have come. Yet he wasn’t here to relive that night, he was here to train. The technique she had shown him was very advanced and like she said, old. This would not detour him. This ability would be very useful in the times to come. He had practiced before on his own time but this time it was different. 

This time he had the rest of his break to practice. Nothing and no one would be here to bother him, he didn’t have to worry about school, classes, his mage, or other prying eyes. Out here he was very much alone. This was exactly the way he liked it. 

Starting with something simple, scratches across his hand. Enough to draw blood but with no lasting damage. This exercise would be the start, holding in the blood in his cut. This was a warm up after all, the more damage he did to himself the faster he would learn. Next came taking fingers, then hands, feet, arms, and legs. It didn’t matter how long it would take him this is what he would have to do. 

Not just that but after he was sure he was familiar with this ability, Victor had a few ideas about how he could possibly push it. Why else would she have taught him this if she did not expect him to push the boundaries every time. He could control blood with this, but not just blood. Reattaching limbs meant limited control of bone and muscle. 

The counts plan was simple, after getting a better feel for the blood control he would attempt to step it up. First trying to move where his heart is located, then move on to attempting to control blood outside of himself somewhat like how a water mage moves and casts spells. Then after that look more into changing muscle and bone structures. Hopefully with this he can give himself some sort of spiked growths similar to that of a punching dagger perhaps. Maybe reinforce the muscle he already has to make himself stronger in a pinch. Then ultimately even giving himself some sort of large bat wings. 

The last thought made him smile. How intimidating would that be to be able to sprout wings? He laughed at his own strange ideas. Even if he was able to something like that, it would take years or even decades to do. Even armored bone plates would be a stretch. 

Then there was always the danger of experimenting with things like this. Getting the council’s approval alone was one thing, but if they knew he was technically experimenting on himself? That could earn him a quick demotion and investigation. He would have to keep this a secret until he had viable proof or answers for them. For what he was thinking of doing he doubted even racking up his possible injuries or deformities to training would help sway their minds on the subject.

Victor will not let this stop him however, it’s just one more thing to keep practicing and keep quiet. Maybe his other ability could be used to further this one. Whichever choice he was to make he was well aware that the rest of his stay here was going to be extremely painful. with that, the tall vampire began his training for the next few days. stopping only to sleep while the sun was up and eat, before he knew he had to go back and return to the academy.
[/hider]

[center][img]https://txt-dynamic.static.1001fonts.net/txt/dHRmLjU0LmYwMTcwYS5VMk5vYjI5c0lGTnJhWEEsLjIAAAAA/shlop.regular.png[/img][/center]
[center][sub]Dates: October 8th - November 4th[/sub][/center]

[hider=10/8: Victor and Eris]
[center][h3]Watching a couple mages[/h3][/center]
Human psychology class had been cancelled for the day and instead assigned them the task of viewing their partner's first day in the Spell Theory Lab. The point of the exercise was observation and evaluation; learn to identify when your mage was struggling or insecure so a vampire could smooth over any potential problems before they festered. Watching mages learn to separate an instinctive part of themselves would present an opportunity to note the physical tells of their frustrations without the distraction of serving. 

Each Spell Theory Lab boasted a viewing area as comfortable as Affinity Masteries, several full couches a step above a row of chairs and side tables that lined the edge. Unlike the other, this viewing area was set back into the wall rather than protruding out over it and a glass pane separated the vampires from the mages. Most of the class had filed in by now. Most of the vampires took the couches, more interested in themselves than their mages as they discussed the various rumors flying around about the recent murders. A few sat at the edge, watching with interest as the mages made their attempts. One, a woman with red hair braided neatly and pinned in a coil on her head, took a quick photo with a subdued chuckled and tapped out a message on her phone. Once she was done, she sighed to herself and tucked the phone away as she watched the group below. 

Captivating an audience was what Eris lived for, and today was no exception. He did want to check in on the kid after everything he went through to get him his stuff, but right now, he needed to work. During the break, he worked with the princess as promised and managed to keep the talk of murder to a minimum outside of the academy. That said, he couldn’t do too much inside of it. What he could do, though, was turn the tide where he wanted it to be. And what better way of absolving the guards’ incompetence by blaming someone else?

Honestly, it was too easy. A suggestion here, a gasp there, Eris was all too happy to stroke the fires. Rumors were handy so long as you knew just what to say and who to say it to. He had to admit that he had really outdone himself this time, but really, at some point he would have to spread the misery away from the Eves--someone was going to start thinking he was biased or something. By the time he was done, Eris had to actively suppress his grin. Wherever Mariette Eve was now, she was going to be remembered for being responsible for the entire fiasco.

Once he was sure that the rumor mill would get the rest of the work going, Eris parted from the group and strolled over to the glass. He squinted down at the armor-wearing mage of his, almost rolling his eyes at seeing who his partner was. What a coincidence. He’d worry that Alderman was going to stab him at some point, but eh. Stress-induced outbursts were easy to write off.

At least he didn't have to sit through another overview of human psychology. Getting back on the good side of the instructor to make up for the few times he was late seemed to help. Victor had noticed several instructors that seemed to treat him different since that night on the rooftop. They were subtle in ways he wasn't expecting, a casual hello here or a respectful greeting there. Perhaps it could have been something else and he was just now realizing that they were doing this. Just another thing he was unsure of.

He did hope that Ryner would at least attempt to do what he asked, telling her that as far as he is concerned nothing happened that night and she doesn't owe him anything. However, he did mention that if she could get this investigation with his mage over quicker it would help him out. He noticed Salem does better when he doesn't stress as much. 

The room to the observatory was quite busy today, everyone seemed to be talking all about the recent happenings and murders. Rumors and misinformation abound through all the giggles and hushed whispers. The only familiar face’s in this room he could see was a redhead, that he couldn't quite remember why she was familiar, and Eris. He wasn't quite sure why he had a distaste for the actor, he knew that Eris was an actor but never really saw any of the movies he was in.

Choosing to at least be civil, the count chose a spot next to Eris and peered down toward the mages below. He could clearly see his mage and Eris’s mage wearing what looked to be armor, [color=92278f]“your ability for fashion and getting others to look good in anything always impresses me.”[/color] Victor thought he should start off with a compliment, he could have more awkward silences at another time, [color=92278f]“I’m sure without it he would look like he was wearing a tin can.”[/color] he spoke the last part with a smile but didn't look up to Eris as he talked.

If Eris’ eyebrows went up any higher, they’d probably disappear into his hair. Victor Astorio in the flesh and [i]deigning[/i] to speak to him? Actually, this was probably the first time they’ve spoken to one another without anyone else around, or at least, the first time the count approached him. The current excuse for conversation was because their mages were paired together--he forgot that Flower Boy had been reassigned to the Astorio--but he’d be lying if he said he didn’t appreciate the compliment.

Feliks had outdone himself as always with Maxwell looking like a proper mage that just forgot to comb his hair. That was probably going to be the best he could get unless it was a formal event and it honestly just wasn’t worth the hassle. 

[color=ccff99]“He’s still a work in progress, but he’ll get there,”[/color] Eris replied, deciding to turn his attention to the hulk of an Astorio. [color=ccff99]“And how goes it for Spelman? Has he finally adjusted to life as an Astorio mage or does he continue to chafe?”[/color]

The vampires reaction made him smirk slightly, he only had to glance over at him once to see his surprise. This was a bit out of character for him after all. [color=92278f]“He's doing alright. As long as he keeps up with his physical training and courtesies classes.”[/color] again Victor glanced over at the actor, he honestly wasn't the best conversationalist but at the very least he could try.

[color=92278f]“I have been meaning to thank you for keeping an eye on him during that unfortunate night.” [/color]he spoke softly while turning his attention back to the mages below. [color=92278f]“At least now the council will take care of that vampire. No negative psychological effects from your mage after that night either?” [/color]His question was genuine. Seeing blood and gore brothers even some vampires and can have lasting effects on humans as well.

Even if Eris could read the little grump's mind, he was pretty sure the only thing he would see was his usual disdain for vampires and focus on magic. He was almost dismissive of the question, but Astorio had a point. Ugh, he was going to have to check on the kid, wasn't he? Maybe he didn't need to, he could approach the topic cautiously, and if he was told to fuck off then he would know things were fine and that would absolve him of any responsibility. Perfect.

Either way, at least the count was a little more grateful than [i]someone[/i] who would not be named that only ended up snipping at him. As if he didn't have his arm twisted enough! It was almost not even worth it, but it wasn't like he could undo the night. [color=ccff99]"I couldn't leave him by himself,"[/color] Eris admitted. "[color=ccff99]The dorm was lively with him and the Starag kid accompanying my mage. They're like peas in a pod.[/color]" A very annoying trio of peas, but that wasn't the point. "[color=ccff99]Hopefully Spellman felt comfortable. He was polite enough, but a little stiff the entire time. Thought he would be a little more relaxed since Alderman is one of his partners for Treaty Law, but given what happened...it's understandable." [/color]

[color=92278f]“Like myself politics will always be a touch and go subject for him. His ability to think idle chatter amongst the upper echelons of nobility is just that will get us both in trouble.”[/color] a slow sigh escaped the Astorio, that was the truth after all neither of them did well in those subjects. The difference being Victor knew when to keep his mouth shut. [color=92278f]“It's not always the funnest thing to do, pry into their emotions. But just the simple part of asking can go a long way sometimes. Even if it’s just fake caring.”[/color] he seemed to be speaking from experience on the subject.

Victor sought to change the focus of the conversation slightly, [color=92278f]“How's his training coming along? Metal mages are very useful and dangerous. Some say even as dangerous as a light mage.”[/color] he was curious to see if the actor was doing anything out of class for his mage. Keeping them focused on school could sometimes alleviate stress and other emotional factors in other places. But he could only assume it depended on the mage.

[i]Both[/i] of them were bad with politics? Well, that pair was screwed. Eris looked up at the ceiling before focusing on Victor, perching his chin on the palm of his hand. You could only fake something for so long, but that wasn’t any of his business. [color=ccff99]“He has a vendetta against the world; I wouldn’t be surprised if he ended up at the top of his class out of sheer spite,”[/color] Eris mused. [color=ccff99]“He’s getting a hang on some footwork and practicing with the Starag has helped.”[/color]

Tapping his knee, he decided to ask, [color=ccff99]“And what of yours? I’ve noticed some improvement in muscle definition...looks like he’s on his way to Brawnsville.”[/color]

A smirk crossed his lips as he listened to Eris talk about his mage, [color=92278f]“at least you won't have to worry about will power. I’m sure Varis can give you some tips on how to focus that vendetta to be constructive.”[/color] he was aware of the friendship between Eris and Varis but wasn't entirely sure to what end that friendship went. [color=92278f]“Yes he is doing well. Keeping up with his scheduled workouts and diet.”[/color] Victor pondered about going into further detail for a moment, deciding that a little more about him wouldn't hurt.

“[color=92278f]I require all my mages to have a good amount of strength and endurance. My job and by extension their job, is not easy. It's tiring, sometimes boring, and almost always uncomfortable.[/color]” he took a moment to glance around again before continuing. [color=92278f]“That and it helps with their stress relief, confidence on and off the field, and looks.”[/color] The Astorio seemed to be pondering a question and how to phrase it. [color=92278f]“Tell me your opinion on something and I don't mean to be rude. What movie would you recommend someone watch if they have never seen any of yours?”[/color]

Eris raised an eyebrow as he spoke. Who knew the Astorios cared about looks? Then again, from the stuff he's heard, there certainly are vampires who are interested in their mage's physical appearances [i]intimately[/i]. Maybe this Astorio was one of them. Well, he was succeeding if he was trying to make Flower Boy more presentable, but short of chucking out the entire closet, he wasn't sure how far he would get.

At the next question, he sat up a little, fingers tapping his knee. [color=ccff99]"Probably [i]The Blood War[/i]. It's still my most successful film to date,"[/color] Eris admitted, flicking some hair out of his eyes. [color=ccff99]"If you don't mind the bastardization of Landar Starag's tale and inaccurate information with some entertainment magic, it's a pleasant watch,"[/color] He said fondly, letting out a sigh. "The war scenes were some of my favorites."

[color=92278f]“Thank you, I haven't seen a film in quite a long time. Maybe I'll have Salem get something like that going for one of his rest days.”[/color] pausing again for a moment looking down at their mages he smirked with an absolutely wicked idea. [color=92278f]“If you would like, I can have Salem get Max after schools done for the day and put him through some of his exercises. I'm sure he would hate it.”[/color] the count couldn't help but snicker at the very idea of seeing that one go through them. [color=92278f]“We don't do any hands on combatives unless we are in the arena. All we do is a lot of strength training and some defensive tactics. Mostly just for learning forms.”[/color]

[color=ccff99]“You can try, but…”[/color] Eris trailed off, already acutely aware of how much he hated sparring with Sunny as it was. [color=ccff99]“I can’t guarantee he’ll go along. He isn’t a big fan of any of the mages in his group.”[/color] Flower Boy and whoever the other one was were the only mages Alderman interacted with because he had to, though if there were others, Eris had no idea.

Instead, he decided to turn it around. [color=ccff99]“You’re awfully interested in mages, aren’t you?”[/color] The blond asked, eyeing Victor warily. 

[color=92278f]“My interest is training, that's what I was told to do before I came here. My father, Vincent Astorio, doesn't believe that anyone here can properly fight.”[/color] not technically a lie but not the entire truth either. [color=92278f]“That and since I can't physically encourage them here, seeing them suffer even a little by this makes my night. You have to enjoy the little things sometimes.”[/color] The count couldn't help but smile remembering Salem's first few days with the workout schedule. [color=92278f]“But in that case, I'll have Salem invite Max but I won't make him if you're not worried about it.”[/color]

That was a lot of effort all things considered. Eris’ expression remained neutral as he looked back down to the pair, closing his eyes for a moment. It wasn’t that the count had nothing to offer, but it was awfully kind for an Astorio to just offer something for nothing in return. When he opened his eyes, he stared at Victor long and hard, as if trying to read his face. He straightened up as he crossed his arms.

[color=ccff99]“I suppose we take what we can get,” [/color]Eris said dryly, unconvinced. [color=ccff99]“Do as you please. I’ll assume you expect little in return considering who we’re talking about.”[/color]

[color=92278f]“I hope you don't take my suggestion without payment as an insult, i do believe i could get something out of it from you. It's just I don't believe that I will get anything out of this for a while. With that being said, if he does happen to save your ass at some point and if someone asks where he learned to fight. Perhaps you might say he learned it from a certain Astorio.”[/color] Victor let that last part sink in for a moment seeing that the class time was running out. [color=92278f]“I do not wish to be a headhunter forever.”[/color] at least this time he wasn't lying. Perhaps working as an instructor like that would give him more things to do with the occasional head hunter job would at least change up his routine. [color=92278f]“I hope you have a good evening Eris, I'll let you know what i thought of the movie.” [/color]

The blonde's lips tightened in a straight line, looking completely unamused by the statement. Really now, the count was either psychic or arrogant. Eris was [i]not[/i] in the business of owning anyone anything, if Alderman decided to go along with whatever the hell the Astorio count offered, that would be squarely on his own shoulders. Eris wasn't stupid enough to owe any Astorio anything, and even if it was trivial, he wasn't going to let his guard down for anything. He let out a polite laugh, standing from his seat and casting a wary eye over the count.

[color=ccff99]"You do that and whatever else you want. Good evening,[/color]" He said, promptly taking his leave of the conversation. 

Watching the other vampire slowly become annoyed at his antics with a smile on his face. Victor couldn't wait to see just how much of this gets back to varis. This also helped him realize that being completely blunt with his suggestions probably wasn't the best way to go about the whole favor thing. Still so much to learn.
[/hider]

[hider=10/9: Victor and Benjamin]
[center][h3]Just to clear a few things up.[/h3][/center]
Classes for the day had finally ended and Victor only had one stop to make before retiring for the night. A visit to the new Eve was in order. He wasn't too sure about him and almost forgot he had to talk to him today if it wasn't for Salem reminding him. At least his mage was good at that, he knew enough to text him these reminders and that the vampire wouldn't answer. If he did it would simply come out as gibberish anyways. Cell phones and technology are still something he has to learn about more to use them correctly.

The tall Astorio was wearing his normal casual loose fitting clothes but still looked proper for his position. Well-groomed hair, no wrinkles in his clothes, and his black boots kept polished. He made his way up the steps to the Eve dorm and hoped he hadn't beaten the other count here. With a couple loud knocks on the main door he stepped back and waited. Hands clasped behind his back.

A minute or so passed before the knock was answered by Benjamin. To see the Astorio count in place of the expected mage was a surprise. There was no reason he could think of to expect such company, but that didn't mean they couldn't be cordial. He did straighten up slightly, a little amused by the first person on campus that was slightly above eye level for him, and gave the count a slight bow of the head.

[color=c0c0c0]“Good evening, Count Astorio,”[/color] Ben said. [color=c0c0c0]“Is there something I can help you with?”[/color]

Victor politely returned the bow to Benjamin noticing it almost looked like he was thinking it was someone else at the door. [color=92278f]“Good evening to you as well, Count Eve. I seem to have yet to meet you in person. I wanted to do that and discuss something with you pertaining to our mages.”[/color] This wasn't a meeting that was being watched too carefully and Victor was forgoing some of the formalities for the sake of conversation and well just being his blunt self.

Ben could not quite help the conscientious expression that came on at the mention of their mages; as he feared, his mage was far too trusting. That was neither here nor there at the moment, however, and far be it for him to be rude. He took a step backwards from the door, extending his arm in a gesture to invite the count in.

“[color=c0c0c0]Do come in,[/color]” Ben said. [color=c0c0c0]“It will be just the two of us with no one to attend, I hope you don’t mind.”[/color]

[color=92278f]“Oh not at all, I do prefer it that way.”[/color] He spoke with a smile and a nod following Ben’s gesture inside and to the living area. The place was rather similar to his dorm. The layout was similar but some of the things they had here were different. Finding a comfortable chair in the living area and waiting for the other to join him he continued. 

[color=92278f]“So you are aware this meeting is not for any particularly bad reason. Simply explaining a few things that have happened or are happening that started before you arrived here.”[/color] Victor spoke plainly but didn't want to add any anxiety or stress to the conversation.

Reasoning’s were often subjective, but for the moment Ben would have to take his word for it. He took a seat himself, attentive yet relaxed as he listened. He supposed in the absolute worst-case scenario, he would simply have to brace himself. A multitude of possibilities went through his mind, ranging from the count taking offense to something Lillie may have carelessly said, or worse, that she had caught his interest.

[color=c0c0c0]“Do tell,”[/color] Ben invited him to speak openly.

[color=92278f]“First, I should start off with a video or rumor you may or may not hear or see while you are here. This prompts me to apologize for any future issues my actions may have caused.”[/color] he paused for a moment. He knew quite well what it could mean to have one count apologize to another.

[color=92278f]“When I first got here I wasn't in the right mindset for this school, the Astorio schools are... tougher.” [/color]taking a moment to phrase that word correctly before beginning again. [color=92278f]“During our first sparring match I may have gotten a little out of hand and threw her out of the ring. I can assure you that Ryner was quick to adjust my attitude.”[/color] Again he paused for a moment but wanting to continue to let the count absorb the information that he had for him he went on.

[color=92278f]“The next thing after apologizing to her, she asked me to help her train. At the time her vampire was not around to assist her. She is very skilled with a blade and can very well handle even the Starag boy. The training I am talking about however is physical conditioning and some hand to hand defensive skills.”[/color] again he paused to let it sink in and give Be some time to ponder this.

[color=92278f]“By how she acts around particularly male vampires she doesn't know I can give an educated guess that she has had an unfortunate encounter with another male vampire earlier in her life. This is what I am sure is one of the reasons why she asked to come along with my mage when he's doing his training.”[/color] another pause before making his final statement.

[color=92278f]“So in short, I am here to ask for your permission for her to continue training with my mage. Salem does exceptionally better when she is around and it gives him someone to talk to where I would not be able to relate. It is also from what I have seen improved her self-confidence and from my experience with water mages. Having this type of training helps them with their spell casting and control.”[/color] Victor could only hope that he explained that in the right way without coming off as demanding or dangerous to her. Salem would be quite sad to learn she would not be joining him any longer. 

That was unexpected. Lillie had mentioned an incident in the arena, but Ben never would have guessed that she referred to getting tossed around like a ragdoll. Upsetting as it may be, however, it was in the past, and if it was neglected to be told, then clearly it was not thought of. No harm, no foul. Or so Ben hoped, at least. He was a little surprised to hear of her skill with the sword; he assumed it was for show, but perhaps it was because he couldn’t really imagine seeing someone so small being very effective. 

Whatever the reason, Victor vouching for her did paint her in a different light in his eyes. His assumption at her prior experience did make some sense of their previous interactions: how she shrank away from his touch, how nervous she was speaking to him. He wondered what could have happened, although he very much doubted he would get a straight answer if he asked. But he would have to find a chance sooner than later. Absolving that particular issue would help particularly with her shakiness in etiquette.

Ben said, [color=c0c0c0]“I must disagree on the result of the unfortunate encounter; she has personally told me she has yet to have a proper conversation with Countess Marivaldi due to that same fear.” [/color]He figured that at the very least he could inform him of that, even if it made her weakness glaringly obvious. [color=c0c0c0]“Her fear of vampires is greatly concerning. But I am glad you’ve seen to it to step in where her previous mistress would not. For that, I thank you. I see no reason to discontinue so long as it is in Miss Dionne’s best interest. And I believe prohibiting her from spending time with her friend would end poorly.”[/color]

[color=92278f]“Yes I agree it would end poorly for both of them. If there is anything you think I should touch on please let me know. Otherwise, I will leave it up to her to report how she's doing to you. Thank you for clearing that up with me, with whatever sparked her fear it would not be my place to interject further. If she does tell me anything more, I will be sure to let you know.”[/color] Victor gave a polite nod at the end of his sentence. 

At the very least he was relieved to hear that she was talking to her vampire about some of the things troubling her. Taking a few more moments he decided that it was wise to at least clear up a few things about himself that differ from other Astorio just in case the Count was worried. [color=92278f]“And so you are aware of how I treat mages, I'm not like other Astorio. I do care about my mage and others, as long as they are willing to work with me and improve themselves. I do not like seeing wasted talent.” [/color]

A surprise to be sure, but a welcome one. Ben was relieved to see that he wasn't alone in his mage treatment, and if the Marivaldi lived up to her family's reputation, then it meant the majority of the nobles' representatives successfully held a modernist point of view. He would have liked to express himself as much, but he would let assumptions run wild for the moment, if only to keep the snake off his back a little longer. 

[color=c0c0c0]"How admirable,"[/color] Ben replied. [color=c0c0c0]"Rest assured you will see no opposition from me. I promised Her Highness that I would do my best to uphold the peace between the four nobles. A large part of my focus while I'm here will be molding my mage for the future, but otherwise I expect a quiet four years."[/color]

[color=92278f]“I do hope for some peace as well my job within the council can be chaotic sometimes.”[/color] Victor stood with a sigh and smiled, [color=92278f]“it was a pleasure meeting you but I do have to get back to my dorm. I'm afraid I didn't catch your first name.”[/color] admittedly this was a little rude but he didn't look too carefully into the other noble’s and their lives.

Ben tried not to be surprised, but he supposed it was his own fault. He stood as well and offered his hand as an apology. [color=c0c0c0]“Forgive the lack of introduction, I am Count Benjamin Pierce Eve,”[/color] He replied. [color=c0c0c0]“The pleasure is all mine. I look forward to any future interactions.”[/color]

[color=92278f]“Victor Strigois Astorio, I enjoy the more informal greetings anyway. Let’s you see people in a different light so to speak.”[/color] He shook the counts hand with a firm grasp and gave a slight polite bow in return. [color=92278f]“As do I, I’m sure we will work well together when we need to.”[/color] a simple farewell as the count slowly strolled on towards his dorm. 
[/hider]