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[h3]-Arrival-[/h3][/center]


Franz took in the sheer spectacle of Bermuda. The sense of awe he felt in the presence of such displays had only been matched one time before. It was much like his first trip to Vienna. Growing up in some gloomy farm town and arriving in the grand centre of the nation. Now, he stood in the grand centre of the world. His eyes were filled with wonder, while his mouth had a slight bitter taste of the wealth taken to construct it. It was a strange, conflicting set of emotions to be sure.

The guided tour was an educational one. Franz never missed the opportunity to ask about landmarks and gain a greater understanding of the entire city. He made a particular mental note about the curfew. 10pm was a reasonable time and he would have no problem following it. But could he gain some advantage from staying past it? Certainly if it were only a fog that stops navigation, himself or most Egoists could still easily navigate it. Even then, most students of Bermuda’s caliber wouldn’t be held back by a simple fog. There was probably more to it, and he was not about to be the lab rat to find out. 

The final stop was in front of some daunting, oversized doors. Franz was glad he had asked about opening ceremonies before getting off the air ship. Freya and Thor would have become stressed to no end if they had to endure whatever was on the other side. Another bonus was that he was dressed to the nines from the get go. In all regards, he was ready for this party.

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[center][h3]-A Social Butterfly-[/h3][/center]

The first thing that stood out to Franz was the music. The technological constructs played competently, flawlessly in fact. It was an incredible feat of science that was playing before him. But he couldn’t ignore the fact that it was a disservice to the arts. Ask any musician in Vienna and they will tell you that technical excellence is only a fraction of playing compelling music. The ‘flaws’ are small additions of personality each musician brings to their performance. Although the untrained ear cannot consciously pin point the difference, it is subconsciously noticed by all. Unfortunately, technical excellence is all these constructs could bring to the table. Music was music though, and there was no point in having a sour mood over nothing.

Franz knew who he had to enquire about for his mission, but in his mind there was plenty of time. The night was still young after all and he deemed it far more important that he make a good name for himself. There were 2000 students starting attendance, but Franz doubted he would need to learn the names of more than 100 of them. Still, he needed to wade through just about all of them to find out who those 100 people were.

Franz approached a waiter carrying a plate of wine glasses, but didn’t grab one. [color=a2d39c][b]“Waiter, this is a place of wonder and mystery to me. Therefore, it would be fitting that I try a wine I have never had before.”[/b][/color] The waiter paused for a bit before handing him a small glass containing a pink wine. The waiter was correct, Franz had only heard about pink wine through conversation and rumors back home. [color=a2d39c][b]“Thank you”[/b][/color] he replied before dismissing the waiter and giving it a curious sip. It was quite sweet and very palatable compared to the few wines he had tried previously. Franz would have to remind himself of moderation, not that he has struggled with it  in the past.

The wonder of Bermuda and  the excitement of new horizons had made sparking conversation very easy. Franz had found himself occupied with three other students making casual conversation and cracking the occasional joke. One even laughed at his mention of studying Mesmerology, thinking it to be a joke. Franz took no offense of course, the reputation of the profession was well known and he had met plenty of ignorant people before.

Franz had his back turned so he didn’t see Lucy making a beeline toward him. [color=76c0f0][b]"Guten Abend, Herr Steiner"[/b][/color] Franz spun around to see… nothing. It was only until he tilted his head down that he saw who was addressing him. Lucrieta von Konigsmahne, any German would recognize that family name and that fame would also extend to their Austrian neighbours. Franz was well aware of who she was even before she introduced herself. [color=a2d39c][b]“Ah, Guten Abend.”[/b][/color]

[color=76c0f0][b]"I am Lucretia von Konigsmahne, a pleasure to meet you. Would you honor me with a moment of your time?"[/b][/color] How curious that a girl of such family prestige would seek out someone like him, Franz thought. Still, he would reply politely and continue the conversation in German. [color=a2d39c][b]“The pleasure is all mine, frau Konigsmahne.”[/b][/color] He would take her hand and gently shake it while giving a small bow. [color=a2d39c][b]“You must forgive me, I am not too well versed in the German etiquette nor that of higher nobility. I do, however, always have time to give to one who speaks the native tongue.”[/b][/color]

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Mentions: [@Izurich]