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[hr][hr][color=C78A2C][b]Events:[/b] Clothing Commission and The Student Faire
[b]Locations:[/b] Merchant and Commoner Dormitories, The Faire, Ersand'Enise[/color][hr][hr][/center]

[hider=Isabella's Fashionable Deal][h2][b]Assani 24th[/b][/h2]

[b]Location:[/b] Merchant Quarters - Yalen’s Place
[b]Day of the week:[/b] Lepdes
[b]Time:[/b] 2:10 HO
[b]Characters:[/b] Colette, Isabella, Yalen [@pantothenic], Zarina

Zarina had it easy this semester with Lepdes completely free. A long weekend with unfortunately few people to enjoy it with on the first half of the day. But luckily for this restless Virangish entrepreneur, the one Quentic Clergyman she’d likely ever seek out had a free period, and so she capitalised. It wouldn’t be hard for a Tethered to capture the echoes of a familiar voice humming a tune just like the one Jocasta had provided them during their first arrival in Torragon. And if that wasn’t enough to get one’s attention, the three levitating ceramic cups behind the tall figure that simulated her jug from that exact same time frame were there are helpers. The contents were still hot and steaming, just wanting to be enjoyed.

As she stood before Yalen’s door, she began with her usual ‘Tap-tap-taptaptaptap-tap. Tap-tap’, followed by, [color=C78A2C]”Special delivery for one Mini-Padre.”[/color] she announced her presence with a sonorous and playful voice. She was wearing a humble but still quality dark sundress with her hair was damp, likely recently cleaned with a strong odour of lavender permeating her being. A light powdering was done to her face with equal amounts of eyeliner to go with it - She wasn’t trying too hard to look pretty. Her smile, however, lacked the roguish nature she had a tendency to let out with both strangers and friends alike.

The door opened after a short delay, but the face that Zarina may have been expecting did not materialise. A blonde woman appeared in the doorway instead, with a large sword clipped to her waist. Her plate armour was decorated, yet practical, and her indigo blue cape was embroidered with the regalia of the Holy See - the highest Quentic authority on the twin continents. The soldier looked at Zarina appraisingly with her hand resting loosely on her sword hilt.

[color=dcb50a]”Good morning ma’am. To what do we owe the pleasure?”[/color] Colette asked, her eyes doing a double take at the sight of the floating coffee set.

Zarina was expecting a lad a tad shorter than what she’d be met with, leaving her golden hues to awkwardly stare down at the mystery-woman’s armour. Surprised, Zarina’s wide eyes darted around various focus points to assess Colette’s figure and making quick deductions,  [color=C78A2C]”Uhm,”[/color] she gave particular attention to the sword,  [color=C78A2C]”Hello.”[/color] she seized control of her distracted mind when she felt her hold on the cups falter a bit and shook her head. By drawing with the gift, she could sniff out another presence and made some deductions,  [color=C78A2C]”... Yalen, you certainly got prettier.”[/color] she grinned a sly, toothy smile as she looked over the knight’s shoulder, hoping to find the young priest,  [color=C78A2C]”Coffee, love?”[/color] she proposed one of the three cups to the welcome party.

[color=dcb50a]”That child wishes he could be as pretty as me.”[/color] Colette plucked the cup out of midair and took a big gulp, seemingly unphased by the possibility of there being poison in the coffee. [color=dcb50a]”Thanks for that. If you’re looking for Yalen, he’s inside.”[/color] The knightess stood aside to open the way for Zarina. [color=dcb50a]”He’s concentrating pretty hard though, so don’t startle him.”[/color] 

The ceramic cup was still quite warm, although far from scalding, and it had a peculiar logo on its otherwise white surface. It was a Zenobucks prototype with the usual green/white colour distribution but the Zarina portrait was quite amateurish. The drink itself was a café au lait with no added sugar, [color=C78A2C]”Thank you kindly, love.”[/color] Zarina nodded at Colette as she entered with the two cups still floating by her. The room was plain, like its owner, and for some reason all the lights were off. Yalen was tucked into the corner at his desk staring at a pile of notes. He was struggling to read his handwriting in the dark, with only a channelled orb of light to serve as illumination.

She knocked a couple of times against the doorframe leading to the room Yalen was studying in as a warning, [color=C78A2C]”Already deep in homework on a Lepdes morning?”[/color] she remarked to make her identity known. The second cup drifted slowly to Yalen’s desk for him to indulge in whenever he wanted to,  [color=C78A2C]”Nerd. How’re you, mini-padre?”[/color]

The light ball flickered as Yalen’s already divided attention was made to acknowledge his friend’s presence. He let it sputter out as she approached and got up in a hurry to open the curtains. [color=#FD5E53]”Zarina! Hi! I wish you’d told me you were coming. I could have cleaned up a bit.”[/color] The flustered priest scurried around the room picking up various bits of clutter. Some blank papers, an empty bottle or two, books, someone’s underwear… he was quick to toss that last one out of sight. [color=#FD5E53]”Would you like some - wait nevermind, I suppose you don’t need a drink.”[/color] He politely picked up the coffee he’d been offered so it didn’t go to waste. [color=#FD5E53]”What brings you here today?”[/color] 

Zarina chuckled, [color=C78A2C]”I’ve seen worse. Although then again, I’ve seen rural brothels. Not a great standard.”[/color] she reached down to pick up a stray sock and tossed it over to the unseen pile where the underwear supposedly disappeared, [color=C78A2C]”Well, I’m here to- Actually,”[/color] she was back to leaning against the doorframe and looked back to get a glimpse of Colette in the other room, [color=C78A2C]”I wanted to see how you were doing, but it looks like you’ve got good company. Is she a relative?”[/color] she squinted, [color=C78A2C]”I can see some similarity … Or maybe it’s just her shining armour rivalling your halo of goodness and compassion.”[/color] she turned her attention back to Yalen, [color=C78A2C]”I was also wondering if you were up for a little bit of, y’know, doing that thing friends do in their free time. Which may involve walking and eating. And maybe get Isabella to join us if we can?”[/color]

[color=#FD5E53]”Oh, thank you for thinking of me. Yeah, Colette has been helping me with various things since I got back. She’s my older sister, though I wish I could say we shared the same parents.”[/color] Yalen almost looked sad as he peeked over at the older woman, who was busy rummaging around in his pantry for some unknown purpose. [color=#FD5E53]”I should be practising magic right now, but I’m sure she won’t mind me taking a break if it’s for a friend.”[/color] He picked up his book bag and slung it over his shoulder, then poked his head out to holler at his sister. [color=#FD5E53]”Colette! I’m heading out for a bit! I won’t be needing lunch today!”[/color] Yalen looked back towards Zarina. [color=#FD5E53]”Isabella’s room is in the common dormitory. Since it’s almost the dismissal period, maybe we can wait for her there.”[/color] 

They were off, so long as Colette didn’t come down on them, and before long they were outside, [color=C78A2C]”Have you ever had Thalakan souvlaki, Yalen?”[/color] Zarina inquired as she led the way in this friendly excursion. 

[color=#FD5E53]”I have not. Those are the meat skewers right?”[/color] Yalen replied, and Zarina enthusiastically nodded. The sky was clear, the temperature relatively hot for the region and a gentle breeze kept them company.

 [color=C78A2C]”Yeah, so, that sister of yours. What brings her here? Is she going Tan-Zeno or something?”[/color] Zarina questioned with arms crossed - she leaned ever so slightly toward her blonde friend as they entered a more crowded area between the Merchant and Commons area. There were many small businesses to be crossed, many of which were preparing foods to be sold for luncheon, [color=C78A2C]”She kind of looked a little more … Extra for a student, though.”[/color] she remarked. The cup was brought to her hand and had since cooled down, though she still didn’t drink from it, [color=C78A2C]”Do you like the cup, by the way?”[/color]

[color=#FD5E53]”Colette says the city summoned her to bolster the garrison. She’s part of the Century knights. I don’t know who they are, but apparently only one hundred magi can join the unit. I’m guessing they’re pretty strong.”[/color] Zarina blinked and quickly inquired, [color=C78A2C]”Anything to be worried about?”[/color] Yalen shrugged in response. [color=#FD5E53]”For us? Probably not. Do you remember the kings from the assembly of thrones? Apparently someone tried to assassinate a few of them, right here in the city. I think we’re fine as long as we don’t aspire to take the crown…”[/color] Zarina clicked her tongue, [color=C78A2C]”Well shit, there go my plans.”[/color] she added in jest.

Yalen turned his nose up to sample the aroma of someone grilling sausages. When prompted for input, he bent his head down so he could look at Zarina’s cup more closely. [color=#FD5E53]”I like the color scheme. Is your face part of the appeal? Putting your likeness up for sale?”[/color]

Zarina raised an eyebrow, [color=C78A2C]”You don’t like it?”[/color] her tone was as loaded as the question itself. Her free hand rested on her hip and her gaze remained fixed on his being, [color=C78A2C]”I thought it’d make it, y’know, recognizable. Maybe it could use a little bit of a professional touch …”[/color]

[color=#FD5E53]”Oh, so your eyes aren’t painted that way on purpose.”[/color] Yalen looked somewhat relieved. [color=#FD5E53]”Well if you aren’t selling yourself as an art piece, what is it for then?”[/color]

[color=C78A2C]”Hmmm.”[/color] she gave the cup a good look and frowned, [color=C78A2C]”Yeah, the eyes are actually a bit off. Hmm, actually …”[/color] a little more high-intensity staring followed before she made up her mind, [color=C78A2C]”Eh, it’s fine. But, no, not art. I appreciate the notion, though.”[/color] they were nearing the mentioned Thalakan establishment with the smell of cooked chicken reaching both of them, [color=C78A2C]”It’s a sort of emblem or crest for a little business idea Marci and I came up with. Just got the cup part of it nailed down, which was one of the harder parts.”[/color]

[color=#FD5E53]”A business! How amazing, I had no idea you were preparing something like that. I think Isabella is better with a sewing needle than a paint brush though. What did you need her for?”[/color] They were now approaching a surprisingly long line of people waiting for skewers. 

[color=C78A2C]”Dami give me strength …”[/color] she groaned at the sight of the line. The smell was just so alluring and the tummy gurgles were just starting, [color=C78A2C]”You talk as though I just wanna hang out with you two to get something.”[/color] she put up a vexed look but her growing smirk made the jest more obvious, [color=C78A2C]”But I was thinking that having some custom clothing for our brand could be a good idea. So, why not ask the pro, y’know?”[/color]

[color=#FD5E53]”You have a point. We’ll see how much she warms up to the idea though. She’s already given up one of her free periods for more magic training.”[/color] Zarina sucked in her cheek and pondered for a moment, [color=C78A2C]”... You gotta be a tad insane to take three magic courses. Right?”[/color] Yalen nodded. [color=#FD5E53]”She has a lot of catching up to do though.”[/color]

It took several agonising minutes of waiting and shuffling forward until finally, the two teens reached the front of the stall. An extremely chiselled man in an apron greeted the two through an overly bushy beard. His Thalakan accent was just as thick. Yalen was immediately stricken by indecision and looked to Zarina awkwardly. [color=#FD5E53]”What do you think I should get? I don’t want to hold the line up.”[/color]

Zarina licked her lips and sucked them in as she laid eyes on the many skewed meats on display, [color=C78A2C]”Two options. Skewed or breaded. The rest is just not the true Thalakan experience.”[/color] the burly shopkeeper kept himself stoic with the only pressure applied to them coming from the loud crowd behind, [color=C78A2C]”One Souvlaki and one in a bread pocket, please.”[/color] she asked politely. The meals were served up with stunning efficiency, although they would have to hold their meals without any plates. Zarina took the loaf stuffed with chicken bits and a few cooked vegetables while Yalen would be given the stick. Seven crows were given in exchange, [color=C78A2C]”And now you eat it like an uncivilised Callanasti!”[/color]

Yalen held his stick of meat up like a wine glass. [color=#FD5E53]”If you say so!”[/color] He chewed off the top most piece of meat without hesitation, leaving a line of grease covering his lower lip. [color=#FD5E53]”Oh… oh my.”[/color] There was a pause as he had to swallow his bite before speaking. [color=#FD5E53]”The meat is perfectly tender, and this marinade is so complex. I taste oregano and… citrus? There’s a lot going on here.”[/color] He took another bite while watching Zarina’s reaction to her own meal.

Zarina didn’t waste any time and took a large, unlady-like bite from her Ensollian sandwich. A good bit of munching later and she had a verdict, [color=C78A2C]”Mmm, definitely a bit of sourness, yeah. And some coriander.”[/color] another bite for good measure, [color=C78A2C]”Gotta hand it to the Thalakans, they know how to cook some chicken.”[/color] her lips were covered in a thin layer of grease and small spices, with her tongue sweeping by from time to time to ensure no flavours were wasted. They were nearing the Commoner Quarters, and classes had finished a good ten minutes ago, although the first students hadn’t arrived quite yet. There was a bench nearby and Zarina invitingly gestured for Yalen to take it, [color=C78A2C]”Wanna rest those legs a bit? You forgot your cane, I see.”[/color]

Yalen plopped down on the bench and stretched his ankles. [color=#FD5E53]”I don’t think I’ll be needing the cane anymore. I am pretty tired though. I don’t have that many breaks in my schedule since I have to do morning training even on the weekend. Today I was carrying a sack of flour around the Proving Grounds.”[/color] He punctuated his statement by hammering his shoulder with a fist. 

[color=C78A2C]”What.”[/color] Zarina twisted to stare intensely at her bench neighbour and then scrutinised his form, [color=C78A2C]”You’re telling me you can walk normally with a daily workout? Have you found a miracle treatment?”[/color] eyebrows furrowed and her half-eaten meal stuffed back in her mouth, she patiently waited for an explanation. 

Yalen shook his head. [color=#FD5E53]”I wouldn’t call it a miracle. The monastic orders have this medicine that helps strengthen the body, that’s all. Colette also helps me recover using her magic. It hasn’t been that easy to keep up with her gruelling schedule though, let me tell you.”[/color] After one more bite the skewer was gone. The young monk looked at the wooden stick forlornly. 

The two finished their meals at about the same time, with Zarina tapping her hands together to brush off some of the crumbs and flour that remained, [color=C78A2C]”Sounding like it’s worth it. And you’re still alive.”[/color] she leaned back to let her back sag against the bench, [color=C78A2C]”Every morning, huh? I bet early, too.”[/color] she mused for a brief moment, [color=C78A2C]”Maybe I should tag along, one of these days, since everyone else is asleep when I’m up. Provide ‘Motivation’ to my good, Quentic friend.”[/color] an exaggerated, sinister smile took form on her visage. She mellowed quickly enough, [color=C78A2C]”Have you seen Jojo recently, by the way?”[/color]

[color=#FD5E53]”We see each other in class of course, but it’s been hard to talk to her recently. She seems conflicted about something. I do hope she’s okay.”[/color] Yalen looked around like he’d spotted someone, even though the street was mostly clear. [color=#FD5E53]”I sense someone coming. Let’s see if it’s her.”[/color] He pointed to a barely visible group of students who were strolling down the main road. One of them was very obviously rolling along in a wheelchair. As the posse came closer their faces grew more recognizable; luckily, it was indeed Isabella, as well as the other tethered students from the refuge. One of them pointed to the pair sitting on the bench, causing the pigtail girl to visibly perk up. The group exchanged their farewells and went in their own directions, leaving Izzy to greet her expectant chums. She waved both her hands at them as her wheels continued to roll, their momentum sustained by kinetic trickery.

[color=a187be]”Well well well! It looks like I’m pretty popular today! What’s up Yalen, Zarina? What brings you fine fellows to my neck of the woods?”[/color]

Zarina straightened her posture when Yalen picked up on the flock of tethered youths. All but one moved on and accosted the two who had been waiting for her, [color=C78A2C]”Hey Izzy.”[/color] the Virangishwoman greeted the chair-bound teen with a joyful smile, [color=C78A2C]”Ipte! That top! And you’re wondering why you’re so popular? Hah.”[/color] she reached out to gently brush the back of her hand against the fabric, [color=C78A2C]”You gotta tell me where you get this stuff, love.”[/color]

[color=a187be]”That, my dear, will be impossible. This is something I was working on in Torragon. It takes a while to finish a single piece I’ll have you know. It was a lot of work.”[/color] Isabella soaked in the praise with a smug look on her face. [color=a187be]”Jeez,  fabric is way too expensive in this city! It’s a good thing I traded up for your friend’s dragon pearl. When I’m finished with school I might use the money and turn this into a business.”[/color] 

[color=#FD5E53]”Actually…”[/color] Yalen trailed off, allowing Zarina the opening to bring up her proposition. After a fake pout, Zarina grinned at the opportunity Yalen was giving to her, [color=C78A2C]”I mean, if you’re confident in your skills, I MIGHT just know someone who’d be interested in working with this sort of business, actually.”[/color] she reached her other arm out to offer the coffee she had been holding this whole time. A little bit of low-level arcane later and it was back to being hot, [color=C78A2C]”Coffee?”[/color]

Isabella gasped in an overly dramatic fashion and hugged her hands to her chest. [color=a187be]”For MOI?”[/color] She giggled at her own terrible performance and hooked her fingers through the cup handle. [color=a187be]”Ooo, smells delicious.”[/color] She took a confident sip but then started coughing, having apparently overestimated her tongue’s fortitude. After blowing on the coffee a few times she tried again and found it more to her liking. [color=a187be]”So you’ve come to recognize my greatness have you? What can I help you with?”[/color]

Zarina snorted at Izzy’s performance and mannerisms, and even let some of her own mundane gestures get a bit exaggerated to mimic the pleasant energy, [color=C78A2C]”Well! I can see you’ve noticed the brand, and recognised the brains of this endeavour! … Which is maybe Marci more than me but that’s- Anyway.”[/color] she brushed some of her rebellious hair locks over her ear as she cleared her throat, [color=C78A2C]”I’m starting a business with her. Coffee and pastry business, and one of our investors brought up the idea of a uniform dress code- So a uniform.”[/color] she blinked and shook her head at her own redundancies, [color=C78A2C]”Would that be something your magical hands could realise, Isabella? I immediately thought of you when she brought that up!”[/color]

[color=a187be]”Welllllllllllllllllllll…”[/color] Isabella took half a minute to think about her response. Yalen scratched the back of his head. Given her schedule, he was pretty much expecting her to decline. After finishing her coffee the spectacled girl tapped a finger on her chin while looking sideways at Zarina. [color=a187be]”I can’t say it would be easy - I’m a very busy lady. Unlike you two, I just started learning magic last week. BUT,”[/color] she pointed fingers at the duo, [color=a187be]”We may be able to work something out. I can free up a bit of my time if you do some of my homework for me. And I’m in charge of the design! I can’t get passionate about a project if it’s too joblike.”[/color]

All the time Isabella needed was patiently given by Zarina. One leg over the other and her back sagging again. When the answer was what she had hoped, the Virangish teen clapped her hands together, [color=C78A2C]”Super! I can agree to most of it. Two things, though-”[/color] she freed her hands to gesture though her position stayed as relaxed as it could ever be, [color=C78A2C]”Nothing too colourful - You’ve got the base colours on the brand on the cup. And it can’t be too difficult to make.”[/color] she paused, but before anyone could say anything, Zarina raised her index, [color=C78A2C]”Also, I approve the plan before launch. Go wild, otherwise. Just tell me the price and the classes you need covered!”[/color]

True to her nature, Isabella was already prepared with parchment and pen in hand. The three of them discussed the costs of bulk fabrics and dyes, and also who would be covering what subject. Yalen agreed to take her theology notes for her while Zarina was in charge of mathematics. Though most of the discussion was sterile business talk, Izzy was also quite happy to show off some rough sketches of designs she’d been planning. The drawings were well proportioned if a bit lacking in finesse.

[color=a187be]”Oh, what do you think about the cut on the neckline here? Is this too revealing?”[/color] Isabella placed a loose sheaf onto Zarina’s lap displaying a summery gown with quite a bit of shoulder showing.

A moment was taken to visualise the first draft. Rubbing her chin, Zarina squinted and let out a few pessimistic ‘hmms’, [color=C78A2C]”I want some degree of practicality. See, we will be working in a tight workspace, preparing drinks and desserts for many people. I would, at least, like to be able to wear an apron with it, while remaining recognisable.”[/color] she no longer was slouching, Zarina got into business with the heavy energy that came with it, [color=C78A2C]”Revealing, however, is not a big deal, so long as it’s also safe. Would probably help, actually.”[/color]

[color=a187be]”Meh. This is all I’ve got. I’ll try to draft something more specifically tailored to your shop and show you tomorrow.”[/color] Izzy packed her documents back into her bag. [color=a187be]”Say, where were you thinking of setting up? I might become one of your regulars!”[/color]

Zarina shrugged, at least happy that Isabella was looking into it, [color=C78A2C]”Uhm, we had a few ideas but …”[/color] she raised her hands to try and illustrate directions, [color=C78A2C]”So, you see that long road you take while passing Arboretum, yeah? At the very end, by the school grounds near the library, we’re thinking of putting our stand around there. Most students pass through there in the morning, so it’s kind of a no-brainer.”[/color] 

Izzy nodded along with her arms crossed. [color=a187be]”I see, I see. You should give me a copy of the menu later. It might help give me some ideas.”[/color] The tethered student craned her head to look up at the city’s giant clocktower. [color=a187be]”Holy cow, it’s almost time for roll call! We better get going so we don’t piss off our Zenos.”[/color]

[color=C78A2C]”Ah yeah. Off to live every boy in campus’ dream.”[/color] she got up from the bench, stretched her arms out and prompted a couple of cracks, [color=C78A2C]”So. Menu. Then invoice. The homework when we got something. All good, Izzy?”[/color]

[color=a187be]”Yeah, just one more thing. You missed a crumb there.”[/color] Isabella poked a finger at Zaz’s collar. [color=a187be]”You owe me lunch tomorrow you cheeky lass.”[/color]

[color=C78A2C]”Bruja.”[/color] cheeky indeed.
[/hider]

[h2][b]Assani 29th[/b][/h2]

[b]Location:[/b] Merchant Dormitories - Zarina’s Quarters
[b]Day of the week:[/b] Lepdes
[b]Time:[/b] 4:00 HS
[b]Characters:[/b] Marceline [@Force and Fury], Zarina


[b]”Final warning, or we will have to leave you with a notice. Please open up.”[/b]

[color=598527]”Coming!”[/color] Finally, Marceline opened the door for the two D.R.A.G.O.N inspectors. They didn’t enter right away, [color=black]”May we come in? We must first ensure the wellbeing of the dragon reported to be living here.”[/color] Marci took a step back and Zarina in turn stepped up, arms crossed and her golden hues squinted at the two. They were dressed in very formal clothes, as one would expect from more prestigious civil servant employees, [color=C78A2C]“There aren’t any dragons here. May I know who told you such rumours?”[/color] the female replied without delay, [color=black]”Confidential, but our sources are reliable. If you refuse to comply, we will bring a warrant to search your home, Miss-”[/color] [color=C78A2C]“Al-Nader. Zarina Al-Nader. And this is Marceline Hohenfelter.”[/color] Zarina informed them as the inspector was looking for the name in the documentation they held, [b]”Indeed. Miss Al-Nader, will we continue this amicably? We’re merely here to ensure the dragons are treated with proper care and no illegal traffic is occurring.”[/b] responded the male with a disarmingly calm voice, clearly seeking to diffuse the tensions.

Zarina kept her arms crossed and looked over at Marci. After a brief moment of awkward non-verbal movements the Virangishwoman shrugged, [color=C78A2C]“Alright. They’re eggs. Three of them, one Alpha.”[/color] she said without adding any unnecessary details, her body language still closed off, [b]”Where did you obtain them?”[/b] the man asked as the group moved to the “living room”, where the eggs were resting on a table near a window, surrounded by soft cotton cushions to keep them safe and getting adequate sunlight, [color=598527]”A gift from the Duque Frannemas to the Al-Nader family. Zarina has given one to me.”[/color] Marci quickly answered to keep things believable. The female nodded without even writing anything down. They were more interested in the eggs.

[b]”These are … Very unique specimens. Dune Sea Froabases and-”[/b] the man furrowed his eyebrows and looked at this partner. The Duke explanation made more sense now, [color=black]”A reticulated Alpha. You should secure this egg. It is said one of these could buy you a small country.”[/color] said the woman as she showed a hint of enthusiasm upon thoroughly investigating the egg. A good ten minutes was taken to get all the information they needed before paperwork was shoved to both girls, [b]”We will have to fine you for failure to report the eggs. Registration fees are marked here,”[/b] he pointed with his pen, [b]”our training sessions also come with a fee and are compulsory to obtain your certification. The program will provide you with information and access to resources, however all goods are at your own expense.”[/b] he informed before nodding to his partner. With nothing else to add and content with the current state of the eggs, they began to leave.

[color=598527]”Full honesty- I thought we were going to lose our eggs. I would not be happy.”[/color] Zarina lazily sagged her rear onto the nearest seat and sighed in relief, [color=C78A2C]“I’d lose my mind if that was the case. Busted my ass to put the momma to sleep.”[/color] she chuckled, [color=C78A2C]“I’ll pass by their office during the day, get us our papers. Think you’ll be able to handle the stand while I go?”[/color]

[hr][hr]

[b]Location:[/b] The Eyes of Vashdal Stall
[b]Day of the week:[/b] Lepdes
[b]Time:[/b] 4:00 HO
[b]Characters:[/b] Unfortunate Urchin, Vashdall Representative, Zarina


[color=C78A2C]“Ahh, The Eyes of Vashdal. For once, obligation doesn’t feel too bad.”[/color]

Zarina awkwardly spoke to herself, hands on her hips and her stance triumphant. She thought everyone was too busy dealing with their own things, enjoying the faire with little consideration for others. Her thoughts were voiced involuntarily when she felt this relaxed. She was wrong. Some urchin, potentially Silas-affiliated, just stared at her and snorted, [b]”Who would obligate you to do anything? No one would want a crazy self-talking lady like you to do stuff for them!”[/b] he called her out, though nobody else seemed to care except for the Virangishwoman with the wide, furious eyes.

They narrowed more and more, jaw clenched and the electricity between both gazes became quite intense. And then, after taking quick glances to the sides, she waved her hand upwards, causing a draft of air to slap the child from below. Not only would he flip backwards and land on his back, but also had his creamy pastry smeared all over his face. After a loud “Ow”, he began to whine and people still didn’t seem to care one bit. Now she was conscious of people listening to her, prompting a far less triumphant stance as she slowly made her way to the Darhannic stand. 

[color=orange]”Ra'ayt dhalik. [i]I saw that.[/i]”[/color] the girl behind the stand claimed nonchalantly in Inipori while pointing at the crying pre-teen,  [color=C78A2C]“La lam tafeal. [i]No you didn’t.[/i]”[/color] quickly replied Zarina. Eyebrow raising followed, but then the secretary sighed and presented a form with a table and names written along with signatures. It was in Avincian - likely to avoid any sort of discrimination, [color=orange]”Dae ealamatan ealaa asmik watawqieik wajtimaeina al'awal hu Victendes alqadim. [i]Mark your name, signature and our first meeting is next Victendes.[/i][/color] Zarina filled her slot and signed, lips pursed and definitely feeling the awkward nature of this exchange, [color=C78A2C]“Okay.”[/color] she said in Avincian as she returned the paper and pen. The Hexaic lobbyist chuckled, [color=orange]”Well, at least you’ll bring something new to the table. We don’t get that many people.”[/color] Avincian was the default now it seemed. Zarina tittered nervously and nodded.

[color=C78A2C]“Uhh, yeah, see you Victendes, then? Cool, cool.”[/color] she finger gunned at the other before taking a step back, [color=C78A2C]“Thanks and uh, yeah see you.”[/color] the whole time the secretary had her lips pursed and purposely exaggerated her judgement face to annoy Zarina. At least it was one club down.

[hr][hr]

[h2][b]Assani 30th[/b][/h2]

[b]Location:[/b] Zeno Bucks Kiosk - Half of the Faire
[b]Day of the week:[/b] Victendes
[b]Time:[/b] 1:00 HS - 1:00 HE
[b]Characters:[/b] Ashon, Ayla [@Ti], Desmond [@Th3King0fChaos], Ingrid [@dragonpiece], Jocasta, Marceline [@Force and Fury], Zarina


[color=C78A2C]“Bravo! Give a warm applause to your talented singer, Ayla~”[/color]

Exclaimed Zarina at Ayla’s show that attracted quite the herd of customers. Zeno Bucks was generating good business - much better than the previous day thanks to Ayla’s communication strategy and the word-of-mouth that developed. Marceline and Zarina were hard at work servicing all the clients, leaving them wondering if they would have enough stocks to handle the growing demand. A problem that ultimately was very desirable. The large cups they were selling now came with a green circle and white crescent drawn underneath them with explanations made by the two businesswomen regarding the loyalty system they had established. There was also a Help Wanted sign on the side, with a few CV’s postulated already!

While working, Zarina took notice of something strange. Jocasta and Ingrid had so happened to be joining them at this time and the traffic had lowered a little due to many people stopping to enjoy their lunches, [color=C78A2C]“The hell?”[/color] she mumbled to herself as she squinted to notice a peculiar distortion at the other side of the street. Ingrid had since gone West while Ayla was making her way to the North-East near the dormitories. Zarina took this downtime to step out of the kioske and investigate the minuscule distortion.

[color=C78A2C]“Ah shit.”[/color] she complained upon realising what it was: A small aberration, so small she could barely make out the shape. At first, she took a step back and pondered how to report this, but then she started to notice what was around her. Kids, random pedestrians, animals involved in different stands … A flock of funny-looking mountain goats were being herded and passed by the street to be brought to the fauna stall, and the Virangishwoman couldn’t help but recall what these things had done to the Halassa, and even something as mighty as the Royal Sand Wyrm.

With minimal thought put into it, Zaz took it upon herself to immediately get rid of this problematic element before it caused another Deserted scenario. She extended her hand and drew from it, leading to a very familiar feeling of unpleasantness. The dark apparition was very small, so the result would be nausea, brief loss of balance and generally feeling like shit, [color=C78A2C]“Ugh … Bad idea.”[/color] she regretted. Feeling sickly, Jocasta’s calls and disapproval of the action just rubbed her the wrong way, [color=ffdead]”Hey, Zaz! I doubt I have to say this but that’s a terrible idea.”[/color] Zarina rolled her eyes and flipped off her friend as her back still faced the Tethered, [color=C78A2C]“Yeah yeah, bite me mom. Nagging will make me feel better.”[/color] she shook her head and straightened her form while Jojo chuckled deviously at the sight, realising it was just some baby aberration and Zarina got a small lesson from it, since the one at the Refuge didn’t seem to be enough.

After a coffee to gather herself, both she and Jocasta went on a walk to shake off the shit feeling and shoot the shit together. A bit of catching up, some talks about Riesco and how they should go on an adventure again. Before they could go on to discussing the ramification of time travelling, however, Jocasta felt it - Something very different from the usual aberrations. Behind the Innovators' exchange booth was an alleyway, and it felt like it beckoned them. First Jojo, and as they got closer, Zarina as well. There was something almost inviting about it. Silently, the duo explored and eventually found [i]it[/i]. A grey form that resembled the old man they had met on that fateful night. The Paradigm himself.

[color=C78A2C]“... Okay, is it the lightning or is that thing actually grey? I am NOT touching that.”[/color] Zarina remarked, arms crossed and her heart racing. Even with just eating a single aberration, her body wanted more, although she felt very conflicting things in regards to this one, [color=ffdead]”I don’t know, but …”[/color] Jocasta was just as agitated about it, but also excited. There was something special about this aberration. As they got just a little closer, the large anomaly began to distort and ‘reached out’ for both of them. However, it never latched onto the two and instead the grey essence merely circled them like it was waiting for permission to be one with the interlopers.

After a gulp, Zarina turned her head to Jocasta, [color=C78A2C]“Should we do it?”[/color] she asked, [color=ffdead]”I think so.”[/color] replied the blonde. The two held hands before they leapt into the unknown and took in this bizarre error in space and time. What they initially felt was like nothing they had ever experienced. It was terrifying yet unfathomably blissful too. One moment Zarina was seeing Jocasta, and then the other she was surrounded by total darkness. The touch of her friend’s palm went from a warm, clammy sensation to pure lukewarm and nothingness. Zaz was somewhere else, where extremes lived together and formed an amalgamation the human mind couldn’t easily comprehend. Before her was an entity shaped like something she couldn’t properly perceive. She knew what it was. Vashdal the Dreamer, exactly how she imagined the God, and yet like a dream the form was oh so fleeting to her memory, except this was every passing second. It was like seeing a blur. She knew she had seen it, but would not be able to ever describe it.

One mighty hand dropped on her right shoulder. It first looked so much bigger than her, but as it dropped it landed perfectly on her shoulder as if perspective and scale did not matter in this dream-like state. When contact was made, Zarina could see the past. All that Was, the bad and the good all put together into a single vision. Whether it was truly visions of the past or Zarina’s own dream was hard to determine. Then came the left, and All that Is to Be was ushered in. An even stranger experience, one full of ambitions being fulfilled and dreams being crushed. It was overwhelming, to the point where, as this fever dream would end just one real-world second after the assimilation of the grey aberration, she fell to her knees in exhaustion, looking as though she had run for miles. Yet, she felt fine with the queasiness from the aberration mostly passed. She kept silent about the ordeal, but Jocasta on the other hand seemed to have experienced something different, [color=ffdead]”This feeling-”[/color] nothing seemed to have changed for Jocasta from an outsider’s perspective, but she could feel that her Tethering had been halted somehow, along with a rise in power that both girls definitely sensed within them.

The discussion of the tethering being cured or at least stifled by this peculiar encounter was one that would start, but when they sensed yet another aberration, the hope of experiencing something like this again was too much. Both made their way, with Zarina having an easier time making it there. With Jocasta lagging behind, she wouldn’t intervene in time to stop Zarina from taking in a considerably larger black aberration than the one taken near Zeno Bucks. Something just drove Zarina to take it, and it wasn’t a craving. Perhaps she was hoping to reach out to the Vashdal again? Or the size was concerning enough that she wanted to prevent an incident. The grey aberration rustled some perspectives, and with this newfound surge of power, Zaz truthfully felt like hot shit … Until she sucked in the black mass and nearly puked her guts out. She felt powerful, but her coffee wasn’t going to stick around long.

Jocasta reprimanded the Virangish, but it wouldn’t do anything to stop Zarina from ravenously power walking to the next sensed aberration. Again, Jojo could barely keep up, and Zazzy indulged once more, leading to a problem. She went nuts! And with that she’d have little memory of what would go down. Desmond would lock her down, but then would get his shit kicked in, requiring Jocasta to warp Zaz into the Tethered Refuge, right into the pool by the Gran Naranja. She could swear that she saw Escarra there, and he tied her up!

Eventually, a tied up Zarina would be brought back by Jocatsa and before the group was a white aberration! Well, the maddened teen didn’t have much of an opinion on it as she only wanted the black stuff. With the arrival of Ashon the Yasoi, Zarina was brought to take in the aberration with Jojo’s and the Yasoi’s help while Desmond apparently watched. It was a big one! And it sucked in some of the power gained during this binge, but also cleared the mind of the rabid businesswoman.

[color=C78A2C]“Raaaahhhh! Blaaaaah. Bah. Ugh. And I’ve made an ass out of myself, haven't I?”[/color] she looked over at Jo, who had once again been blessed with anti-tethered juice. Zarina rubbed her temples, the headache had gone but the overall experience was just making her dizzy, even if now she felt even better than she had at the start of the day.

There would be some Ingrid management that followed, and some Zeno Bucks evening fun to be made. But ultimately, Zarina was brought to mull over the vision she had and what Jocasta had told her. Was there really a way to help this horrible disease? Each time her golden hues met Marceline’s figure, she couldn’t help but think even more about it. Right until closing time.

A good day of business, promising for the coming weeks where they would officially operate outside of a Faire attraction. Sienna Afraval’s home was once again used as storage with Zarina dismissing Marci for the evening, using the excuse of her being absent for a portion of the day during her “binge” as an excuse to clean up their stuff in the cellar all alone. But in truth she wanted to execute a secret and devious plan without her partner finding out! Nets and a bird cage were whipped out from a pile of junk that had a blanket draped over them, along with a bag containing fresh grapes. Everything one would need to go catching some unique avian specimens.

Footsteps could be heard upstairs. Zarina grinned. It’s grapin’ time! 

[hider=Summary and Clubs]
[b]Summary:[/b]
-Zarina opens Zeno Bucks with Marceline
-They get a visit from DRAGON, Zarina handles the paperwork (Seen in collab with Yuliya)
-Zarina joins clubs, makes a bit of an ass of herself in Eyes of Vashdal
-Other club stalls will be met as collabs in the future!
-Aberrations run wild! Zarina takes her first to avoid others being infected like the Halassa were.
-She meets a grey aberration with Jocasta, has a vision of Vashdal and emboldens her to take more aberrations. After her second she goes into craving mode, and then takes a small one to go very aggressive. Gets timed out by Jocasta at the Torragon Refuge.
-Final aberration is a white one and it "fixes" her.
-After a clean up of Zeno Bucks, she prepares a mysterious plan in Afraval's cellar involving nets and a bird cage.
-She gained 0.15 RAS overall.

[b]Guild:[/b] The Magicians' Guild
[b]Clubs:[/b] The Eyes of Vashdal, Ordo Draconum, The Fauna Society, The Fingersteeplers, The Society of the Grapes (convinced by Yuliya), Innovators' Exchange, The Mage Hunters' Society and The Cloudchasers as her bonus.[/hider]