[center][img]https://i.imgur.com/DVjv2A1.png?1[/img]
[img]https://i.imgur.com/PIt6O9j.png[/img][/center]
[hr][color=gold]Location:[/color] Ersand'Ernise
[hr][color=gold]Interactions:[/color] Lots of people
[hr][hr] 
[hider=Thin Air]
[h1]Thin Air[/h1]
Velles 7th was going to be a busy day for Ingrid. The event was Thin Air and Snaked and Afraid was well prepared thanks to Zarra. Zarra’s parents were undoubtedly odd but they seemed to be quite the inventors to make a Hot Air Balloon. They were in town on their own so it was simply an ask. As long as we didn’t damage it too much then we would be fine. 

After some not-so-true promises to the Travendour about the safety of their Balloon, the team was ready. There was some debate about the teams we could choose but in the end, it was Sådan Æresvaktr. They were all talented kineticist with a good bit of Arcane and Chemical. Ingrid being cousins with Siv made it relatively easy to pair up with them. Ingrid wasn’t sure because of the bad memories between them but Dory got her to drop that for now. 

They were a relatively calm team and were cooperative for the most part. Both teams really believed that they could come first with the Air Balloon and the skill they possessed. With a lot of Kinetic, Arcane, and Chemical, the teams felt confident that this would be their best match yet.

The start was a quick rise with our sisters in the sky. The 2 airships had a decent rise, though admittedly, the blimp was slower than expected. The weather had looked good for flight before the event but the hour of prep changed that as multiple storms were created by lots of people. It wasn’t something to dread but we worried still. What we did need to worry about was that apparently, 2 strong teams had teamed up against us. They were riding dragons and had people on the blimp for sabotage. Ingrid thought that with how new these vehicles were, they were safe from being immediately targeted. Whatever the case, the small alliance we formed was found out along with our method for the ascent. The fighting was intense but we seemed to get away with some minor damage to the Balloon and Desmond being knocked out by Ayla and her entourage. Dory put in some major work, knocking out 2 people who were piloting the dragons. They of course had more people who could pilot but it was a great defense against their all-out war against us. 

As planned, the team broke away from our ally once we felt the alliance was no longer beneficial and rose up by ourselves. The team rose up as fast as we could and even launched ourselves high into the air right before we finished. But it was obvious to Ingrid that we had not come first, not even 2nd as she could clearly see 2 teams above her. 

As they fell, Ingrid could only feel bitter. It felt like this was the one they could finally get 1st or 2nd. Now they were third once again. Ingrid just breathed out and composed herself on the way down. It was unbecoming of anyone to be bitter over third. They weren’t cheated or disadvantaged in any way. They lost fairly. 

Ingrid hid away these indecorous thoughts and just enjoyed a view she has never seen. Dozens of people flying and falling through the stormy sky. Ingrid slowed herself down to enjoy the fall for a minute or so longer before she took full control and stopped her descent and righted herself and landed with some grace. 

It took longer than Ingrid expected to calculate who won. Not that it mattered. Ingrid was sure of her team's overall height. Ingrid quietly spent some time with her group, drinking some ale to pass the time as she read. Ingrid’s cousin, Siv, approached her with a letter from the patriarch of her family, her grandfather. Ingrid accepted it like it was nothing but she held some anxiousness about opening it. 

Ingrid knew that she hadn’t been well behaved and her grandfather could be here to simply confirm things. From making a scene at the student faire to having boys in her room, so many things could worsen her position. The scene of Ayla being betrothed comes to her mind and she hesitantly opened it. 


At first glance, the letter seemed to simply be a business meeting and she needed to bring the books so that everyone could get up to speed on things. Besides some other small things, there was not much to it. It was so short for the first time they have spoken in months. Maybe it was only a business event. Ingrid read it over 3 or so more times to make sure there wasn’t some secret meaning. 

Ingrid sighed in relief, she seemed to dodge getting married off for at least a few months. That is unless her cousins have been gathering information on their own. They could easily take over the conversation and get it on to her exploits. Ingrid needed some way to take the eyes away from herself if they try something. Her first thought was to discuss her newly acquired ship and seed but Ingrid believes that might not be enough. Plus she wants to give that to her king herself and announcing it there would mean her grandfather would get to hand it over. The ship might be enough and could get her some connections if they need it to be loaded from the Enthish capital. [color=8882be][i]Enthish… Wait Desmond got that ruby, that will surely get the attention of everyone.[/i][/color]

Ingrid jaunted off to Desmond, hoping he hadn’t sold the ruby.

Desmond sat at his desk as he sighed and rubbed his head, he had awoken just a little while ago from the sonic blast he received from team Zemana and Seoul Sistas, however it left him with an intense ringing in his head. He was okay from the other affects from the sonic attack, thankfully binding healed his ears and body from the intense concusive force of the attack. Yet it did not take away the intense ringing his mind remembered from the host memories of the attack.

As a sound cut through Desmond’s quiet time and recovery, a knock at his door, as he rose from his chair and opened the door to find Ingrid was at his door, as he greeted her, [color=gold]”Hey Ingrid. What do I owe the pleasure to?”[/color].

Ingrid smiled,[color=8882be]“Oh I was hoping you would accompany me to a small event, I believe you might find a buyer for your ruby."[/color] Ingrid seemed well put together, better dressed than normal. 

Desmond looked to Ingrid as he saw her get up and what she said, he thought for a moment if what he was wearing was good enough, he looked to Ingrid and said, [color=gold]”Oh of course, thank you for the opportunity, if you can give me a moment then I will be ready to go”[/color]. Desmond quickly turned and then took his walk over to his desk, as he kneeled down and grabbed the handle of his lower left drawer. It was the drawer he told anyone who entered his room to never open, or consequences will be had, however as he opened it he applied the smallest amount of kinetic energy to a certain part and the drawer opened just fine. Desmond then reached in and pulled out the ruby as he put it in his bag and closed the drawer as he once more applied a light bit of kinetic energy in a certain way and the drawer closed just fine. As Desmond stood up and looked towards Ingrid and said with a soft smile, [color=gold]”Alright, you lead the way”[/color].

Ingrid was happy to find that Desmond had not sold it off yet.[color=8882be][i] Hopefully this with my new ship will be enough to keep them off of me for the meeting.[/i][/color] Ingrid turned to desmond as they walked, [color=8882be]"So this is a small meeting with some of my family. They are in town and want to talk about some business. Grandfather is always looking for something to buy and then sell."[/color]

Desmond nodded his head as he said, [color=gold]”Ah okay, well this’ll be good then. I hope you don’t mind me asking, what kind of business?”[/color]

Ingrid patted the side of her satchel, [color=8882be]"When ships move through near here they are delivered to me for balancing and record keeping. I sent a message by dragon every now and then."[/color] Ingrid kept walking without making eye contact with them. 

Desmond nodded as he said with a chuckle, [color=gold]”I see, well I hope this goes well. It would be awkward to be turned down by your family”[/color]. Desmond jokingly said afterwards, [color=gold]”I swear if deals go wrong I will hold back my anger and only knock out one of their teeth”[/color]. Desmond snickered slightly as they continued on.
Ingrid couldn’t help but laugh as well but she had to say,[color=8882be] "Thank you but please, let's not punch them. Or at least do it when there alone."[/color] Ingrid somewhat needed that to relieve the tension she was building. [color=8882be][i]Everything is fine, they shouldn’t want to marry me off yet.[/i][/color]

They crossed the city to the port, heading towards the light tower until they stopped at a large ship, decorated with Eskandish imagery and seemingly growing fruit on the ship, a rare sight indeed. The ship seemed to be occupied but there was no plank for them to get onto the ship. Ingrid didn’t seem perturbed simply took a longer stride. [color=8882be]"Ett steg, två steg, tre steg, språng,"[/color] Ingrid chanted as on the third she ascended up onto the guard rail of the ship and hops off onto the deck. She looks at Desmond, [color=8882be]"Need a hand?"[/color] Ingrid teased.

Desmond looked up Ingrid and chuckled as he said, [color=gold]”Oh please, let me have some dignity”[/color]. As Desmond swings his arms back he lowers himself and the moment he had reached the perfect position of his posture, he amplified his body’s chemical responses and drew from his own gravity as he leaped. He used the energy he drew from his own gravity to launch him higher up as he begins to magnetically charge himself and the ledge to pull himself up as he sent himself high and flying, he seemed to almost fly as his hands grabbed the ledge and took a firm hold as he threw himself up and landed on his feet with grace.

He looked to Ingrid and did jazz hands as he took a slight stance and said, [color=gold]”Tada!”[/color] Desmond began to chuckle as he quickly composed himself before doing an exaggerated deep bow and saying, [color=gold]”After you~”[/color].

The deck of the ship was full of Eskandish and a few Drudgunzeans, there looked to be some sparing going on for entertainment. Large men and women using wooden weapons to strike at eachother, obviously enhanced by kinetic and it wouldn’t be a stretch to say they were aiming to break their opponent. Ingrid and Desmond only got an acknowledging glance as they arrived. 

Once the spar was over, the girl overtaking the man with a speedy set of strikes aimed at his wrist and knee, dropping him and his weapon to the ground. Claps and some small cheers from the crewmates, attention was finally put on the 2 arrivals. Ingrid gave a slight bow towards the old man who seemed to be sitting at a table where the food for the event was. He was definitely old but his large frame hadn’t shrunk too aggressively from his age. He stood up and waved his hand over the table, telling them to come and sit. For the moment, Desmond could see that he was even taller than Ingrid by a few inches and still had a steady amount of muscle. Well, enough that Desmond was sure he could swing that axe on his hip still. Ingrid made her way over to take a seat across from him.

Desmond did a slight bow following Ingrid as he followed in step, Desmond looked around with a calm look, inspecting each person to determine who was who. Based on the size and stature Desmond picked out who was who, as the man they must have been going to would be the patriarch, the Grandfather. While they walked over Desmond gave a nod and light applause to the victor as he said, [color=gold]”It was a wonderful bout”[/color]. Once they made it to the table Desmond allowed Ingrid to sit first before he then took a seat next to her before greeting the Patriarch with a [color=gold]”Hello sir”[/color].

The elderly man gave Desmond a once over and nodded before coming back to Ingrid. “So child, tell me, how has your time been in this magnificent city?” the grandfather asked in a thick Eskandish accent accentuated by an old gravelly voice, “And more importantly, are you in good health?” Insinuating the incident that led to her eventually going to Ersand’Ernise. 

Ingrid just smiled and started to take out part of the ledger, [color=8882be]"I’m fine grandfather, I go out often and even started training again, I am even practicing Kastäng"[/color] Ingrid flexed her arm.

Ingrid’s grandfather laughed at her show, “Alright, alright, I won’t question you on it too much. It isn’t even the end of the first semester.” The old man grabbed some empty cups and set them in front of the 2 of them, “So you are doing well in the Trials! Top 5 in all of them so far! I’m proud of you, Ingrid. I have a gift for when you leave,” her grandfather continues as he poured the 2 of them a strong cider. He looks over at the Enthish man, “So you are one of my grandchildren’s teammates?”

Desmond listened to Ingrid and her Grandfather talk, he took notice of eyes, people seemed to inspect not only them but each other. Each seemed to have insinuations of the talks, hidden ideas and motives moved between them, yet otherwise it seemed calm. As the older man passed on a question to Desmond, wishing to know if he was a teammate to Ingrid and her cousin, Desmond responded with a soft smile, [color=gold]”Yes I am, sir. I had the pleasure of meeting Ingrid because we are in the same Zeno group”[/color].

The old man gave a small smile, “I see, well young man, my name is Bjorn Penderson,” Bjorn said as he extended a hand to Desmond.

Desmond reached for the man’s hand with a smile, [color=gold]”Desmond Catulus it is nice to meet you”[/color].

There wasn’t much to the handshake other than Bjorn giving it a fair bit of strength to test Desmond. At the same time, Siv made his way onto the boat but went to the side instead of the table. Bjorn let go of the handshake and clapped his hand, “Now that everyone is here, let's get to business,” He looks over at Ingrid once more to her to start. 


Ingrid started to go over the trade that has been passing in and out of the school that their family has a hand in. Along with some more reports about some of the dealing in surrounding waters. Ingrid also handed over some information on the cargo that has been going in and out of the school. Of course, Ingrid didn’t know everything and didn’t know the underground, she could still give some insight into it. Then the other people start talking about other areas that they manage. It is essentially a passing of information between the different sides of the family. After all that, new directives and predictions are given and that is when the real conversations are to be had.

Each relative starts talking about their recent ventures and the connections they have been making. If they have nothing to report, Bjorn writes their name down in a small notebook. It was old and worn but there seeming attempts to fix it. Eventually, though things got to Siv. Siv, unlike his general feel and the outfits he wears with his team, was unbelievably successful for his age. It was a mixture of luck, cheating, and good business sense. He put himself through school as a show of his own strength and has the best mixture of high RAS and connections. No one was aware if he was actually first on Bjorn’s list of successors but they could imagine he was high on the list. 

Siv gave his normal report, it was impressive but it was obvious that they expected more, including Bjorn who just crossed his arms like he heard something bad. Ingrid whispered to Desmond about how his reports usually go to give some context. Siv seemed nervous in a way that initially had the whispers speculating that he was hiding the true extent of the report. Those hushed voices were cut by the final thing Siv had to say. “I plan on marrying Karla Magnusdotter,”

There wasn’t a vocal reaction but it was obvious this was a big deal. Karla’s family was well known but wasn’t particularly wealthy and not well connected outside of Eskand. It would be fine if Siv wasn’t favored but he was and was expected to marry someone to advance his position. Bjorn seemed calm on the surface but it was evident from his actions that he was not. He took out his book again and instead of writing, he simply slashed Siv’s name in the book. Bjorn looked at his grandson and started to rise. It was understood that doing this would hurt the family, a crime that will be compensated for. Another figure took the floor, Dagh Penderson, another successful man in her family. 21 years old, decently tall, and attractive his only shortcoming is his RAS of 8.0. By far one of the strongest people here has been in school the longest and has seemingly the most overseas connections.

Dagh took the stage and supported Siv, even offering to help cover the price of Siv’s actions. It was obvious something was going on with the situation but they couldn’t know for sure. It was hard for even Bjorn to stand against the both of them so he sat and Siv started to make his way off the ship, feeling assured he wouldn’t have to face his grandfather directly. 

That is before Bjorn commanded with a booming voice loud enough to make your ears ring if you were next to him, “Wait.” Siv stopped and so did everyone else. Siv and Dagh thought they were in the clear but Bjorns started to stand. Bjorn closed in on the boy, each heavy footstep filled the atmosphere with more tension. Bjorn got right up to Siv and looked down at him. There was silence and some of the non-gifted crew members have already started to take cover in case of a fight. Siv sweated profusely and all the years of fear weighed on him. Bjorn reached into his coat and spoke in a softer voice, “If you are going, take this to Ingrid’s room,” handing Siv an ornate box. Bjorn turned back and sat down. Siv nodded and quickly got off the boat.

Tensions seemed to calm and people started to get back to their own reports. Nothing spectacular of note happened but it was interesting that they didn’t even ask Ingrid if she had anything to mention. Now came the gossip that Ingrid oh so dreaded. She came up with multiple diversions for the event but she needed none of it with Siv’s report. All attention was on that. Some talk about how cute they would be, and others talk about how weird they will be together. Most talked about who is moving up the list and who might get hitched next. With things settled, Ingrid spoke to her grandfather, [color=8882be]"Grandfather, I brought Desmond here to make you an offer,"[/color] Ingrid said and looked over to Desmond.

Desmond held calm the entire ordeal, it seemed many things were happening under the surface as people talked and predicted. A simple thing as saying you shall marry someone and the whole world seemed to almost grow tense seemed all too strange. Yet soon it seemed to fade once more as the Grandfather sat once more, and then Ingrid passed off the floor to Desmond. Desmond gave a light nod as he said with a small smile, and then said as he lifted his satchel onto the table and began to reach in, [color=gold]”Yes, I came here to sell you something marvelous”[/color]. As Desmond took out of his bag a ruby of extraordinary size. It fit nicely in the hand as he played with it in his hand for a moment before he then held it out with his 3 fingers as he continued, [color=gold]”I wish to sell you this ruby, and possibly more like it”[/color].

There were some slight gasps at the reveal of such a large ruby followed by a few of them coming up to inspect it. Bjorn held a hand out to them to not crowd Desmond. “Damn children,” Bjorn sneered, “Don’t crowd around the seller.” Bjorn looked over to Desmond and extended a hand, “Give it here so I can expect it.” Bjorn seemed interested in the ruby.

Desmond noticed the movements of people around him and he knew that they were interested. They wished to inspect it with such fervor a few nearly lost composure, yet it seemed the man Desmond wished to interest the most was only slightly impressed. Desmond smiled as the patriarch asked to inspect it, Desmond answered, [color=gold]”Of course”[/color]. As he held out his hand and lightly levitated the Ruby over the man for him to take hold of it. 

Clasped it gently and started to cast a spell, the words were old Eskandish and its effects were mostly hidden but the trained magusjeager could feel Arcane energy focus in Bjorn’s eye. He turned it and muttered as on the table he moved coins to do some math. He looked up at Desmond and said, “3,900 Neskal?” Bjorn offered.

Desmond heard the price and his smile almost broke, it was an amount that was one he was not used to hearing. However, he knew he could possibly get more, and with what he needed to do, he needed to try and get as much as he could, so he said in a calm voice, measuring the reactions and the thoughts, [color=gold]”It’s larger than most rubies one would see in their lifetime let alone be in their possession. I know with some cutting you can turn much more of a profit, so how about 4,200 Neskals?”[/color]

Bjorn had hoped to scam the lad for 100 magus but it seems his damn offspring gave it away. Bjorn started to play off of it, “You are right child, this ruby is larger than many other ones. Finding a cutter and a jeweler that can handle this beast is going to be hard. Finding a buyer will be even more difficult.” Bjorn retorted making an argument for his price. 

Desmond listened as he heard the concerns of the price, the size being hard for a jeweler to work, and even harder for them to find a buyer. As those were simple bullets, as Desmond wanted and said, he was looking for a buyer of future rubies. Desmond said lightly with his smile still on his face, [color=gold]”I would hope it not be too difficult to find people to process the rubies and procure buyers. I am in need of a buyer of rubies from a fresh mine starting up after all, and I was hoping it was to be you~”[/color]. Desmond’s face stayed the exact same, his smile was calm, and his voice was smooth. He almost seemed to be relaxed, even when negotiating and upselling a practiced businessman.

Bjorn handed back the Ruby and sat back weighing the options. He stroked his build, “Fine, I can be the main buyer of the rubies if you can beat one of us in a spar,” Bjorn he raised his arms to his large family. Bjorn seemed confident in his family’s ability. “What do you say boy? You win and you get your 4,200 neskal and I will do my best to buy from your source quickly. You lose, I get it for 3,900 and I will get something from you later?” Bjorn confidently said and raised the stakes.

Desmond heard the new deal, and his smile broke, and a grin appeared, It was as if he was a grinning devil as Desmond asked one simple question, [color=gold]”Anyone here?”[/color]

Bjorn was curious about what Desmond was thinking, “Anyone.”

Desmond with the ruby in hand, stood up and set the ruby on the table between himself and Bjorn as he looked the man akin to a mountain dead in the eyes with that same grinning smile, [color=gold]”How about you then, Bodach? You think you still got it in you? You seem to be one of the only ones here worth a damn”[/color].

An unexpected choice turned Bjorn’s eye’s sharp on the boy, “Impudent brat, You really chose me?” Bjorn started to raise and with that Desmond could feel the draw of some of the other ‘not worth a damn’ Penderson's. They were obviously offended and with Ingrid not seeming to give any support to desmond things could get harry. Bjorn looked down at Desmond and a smirk erupted, “Cheeky brat!” The dining table flew off the ship as the old man sent a downward straight at Desmond. 

[Hider=Fights for Profit]

[center][youtube]https://youtu.be/vR-yx2m0MIo[/youtube][/center]

As the mountain of a man named Bjorn throws a fast and powerful straight, Desmond was unable to dodge the sheer reach of the man, as the fist connected, yet Desmond's head turned and with it the force of the punch was mostly diverted away. Desmond took this split second to quickly tried to buff himself before throwing a spear like kick to the man's stomach.

Bjorn had never intended for him to dodge the surprise attack and got paid a spear kick to repay him for his assumption. However, Bjorn was going to magic to boost himself. The cheeky brat needs to learn his place. Bjorn pounded on his chest as his body went red and his muscles swelled, veins popped and he glared at Desmond like he was half gone.

Desmond felt the force that flowed from this man and chuckled as he said, [color=gold]"Damn Berserkers"[/color]. Desmond dashed in and threw a quick and sharp kick aiming for the side of Bjorn's Head.

Bjorn’s body dropped and his stance shifted back to prepare for his next attack, "Prepare yourself, boy," Bjorn sprung off into a tackle while Desmond’s leg came down.

Desmond missed his kick he saw the berserker spring off like a bullet, however, Desmond did not wait to jump on his falling foot as he twisted himself to be facing away from the older man and kinetically enhanced his other leg to lightly leaped off of it. Allowing him to get over the charging bullet of a man. The moment he landed he boosted himself to tackle the beast from behind.

Bjorn abused his birthright and with his massive RAS drew the energy out of the young man, following it with a hammer fist.

The moment Desmond felt the energy draw away from him he knew the man was going to strike out again, as he saw the hammer fist coming down, Desmond quickly shifted off to the side and let the fist fall and at that moment Desmond attempted to quickly buff himself again and then punch the Bjorn across the face.

When Desmond struck the large man across the face, the punch wasn't the main point, it was the setup. Desmond used the moment to slip his leg between the larger man and leaned them both back and he brought them down to the ground. Desmond began to wrap his legs around the man's leg and began to take hold of it against Desmond's body to create a Kneebar.

Bjorn strengthens his leg and with kinetic magic as goes to strike hard using Kinetic on Desmond's back.

Desmond was almost able to complete his Knee bar however Bjorn was able to react fast enough to the attack as he strikes at Desmond's back as it landed firm and strong. Desmond was left ringing as the hit was hard enough to send the boy sliding from the strike as the 2 men began to stand back up.

Desmond took the moment to enhance himself as the energy flowed through him, not like the raging storm that was the berserker, but more like a smooth flow of water.

The effects of the chemicals magic were coming down and the pain in his leg was evident in the way it twitched when he moved it. I think I might finally be getting old if this hurts. Nevertheless, he saw the boy buff himself, "Not like that, Like this" As he pounded on his chess again. As an eruption of energy poured out once more.

Desmond chuckled as he said, [color=gold]"Eh, it was more of a slight stop gap, you hurt old man"[/color]. Desmond dashed forward and does a long reaching kick to strike at his now weakened knee.

Bjorn went to guard his knee with his arm, he can't afford to lose to a damn knee injury. When the strike connected it landed solidly against the arm of the larger man yet not enough to really move him. Then. unnaturally, Bjorn's body moved at him diagonally up to get on top as he went to smash him and the deck if needed.

Bjorn sent Desmond into the deck with a savage punch, and he began to slam down onto him again and again as it was almost like a downfall of attacks and held him by the shirt, "You give, child?" Bjorn was more than ready to continue this beating.

Desmond took the beating, it was rough, however, it was not the worst he felt, honestly just a day ago this would have been much preferable to what he got. 

Yet as the man asked Desmond's face changed, a smirk appeared as he spoke, [color=gold]"Why would I? You're open."[/color].

As he used the energy he stored from the onslaught and then from his buffing to boot kick the man with everything he had in the man's knee. 

Bjorn expected this lowborn whelp to give up. Bjorn could even fill his broken bones beneath his fist. Yet this cheeky brat goes to hit me in my manhood.

As the boot strike landed clean onto the older man's knee, for all his years and all his power, one strike was all it took to swing the tables between the two men again.

Of the mountain of a man, his leg gave in, his knee capitulated to the unyielding force that the whelp lashed out with.

It was nothing truly special, it was in fact a weaker strike than many strikes he has taken before. However, with the precise application of force in an already weakened spot, even this beast would fall. 

His leg bent in a strange way, one that would require the hand of a highly skilled binder. Ones that he did have employed on the ship to make sure if he was to be injured his body would not give out from age, yet if not treated soon might take away the little freedom of walking from him, as not even magic can perform miracles after more damage.

It was his choice, did he dare continue this fight with the Smiling Devil he thought was at Death's door?

Bjorn fell to the side, using kinetic magic to gain some distance, this pain he could feel through the chemicals he was pumping through his veins. This isn't good he thought, Could he continue the fight? Risk his leg to win. He felt an energy well up in him, this was like when he was young and would adventure into danger. But he was no longer young, his strength has waned and here he was, still beating down young men like he was in his twenties. Bjorn fell back, "I yield you cunt." 

The family was surprised, they have never seen him lose without being at Ahn-Eshiran's door. But they know that Bjorn's pride was too great to give up half heartedly and they accepted the outcome. 

Desmond saw the man fall back, moving away as he made distance. Desmond rose from his indent in the boat, battered, yet not broken, Desmond stood as he filled himself with chemical energies to dull the pain. He drew from his internal energies to cease the constant alarms his body released to tell his mind he is in pain. 

He was waning in consciousness, as this was his gambit, as he stood there he waited for the man to act, yet what came was the glorious words he wanted to hear. Desmond's smile faded as he sighed, as he fell back and began to hold his ribs while saying, [color=gold]"Aye aye aye, you hurt old man"[/color].

"Don't worry about me child, I'm just getting old" Bjorn looked over to the healer and had him go over to Desmond, his damage was quickly healed and then Bjorn's was as well. "Alright child, 4,200 Neskal and I will buy from you. Do you already have the connection to get more or are you just trying to find people beforehand?"

Desmond let out a sigh once he was healed as he answered the man's question, [color=gold]"The mine is not up yet, I was in search of buyers beforehand. However, it should be up within a month"[/color]

"Alright then, have Ingrid send a message when it is running," Bjorn looked over to the crew mates and waved them off to get the money. Out came 2 chests and a decent size of neskal. He pulled out a few and handed him 2 more neskals than what was owed. 1 gold, 1 onyx.

Desmond took the 2 neskals and nodded while saying, [color=gold]"I shall"[/color]. Desmond looked to the chests as he chuckled slightly at the sheer idea that this man had this much money on his ship, and more so enough to be able to purchase something of this much value at the drop of a hat.

As Desmond turned to give Ingrid a thumbs up and a smile as she was the one that allowed this to even happen.

After having it counted in front of Desmond, Bjorn looked at Desmond, "What's your business? You seem skilled, too skilled to be a random student. You got a good chunk of capital now, what's your game? Sitting money will get taken one day."

Desmond chuckled as he said, [color=gold]"My profession? I'm a Magusjaeger for hire. But my plan for the money doesn't follow the same path as my profession. I'm going to put the money into the Royal Bank of Perrence to accrue interest whilst I set up the Ruby mines. Once that is underway I will be getting the necessary tools and supplies for me to start up a Firearm business"[/color]. Desmond has had ideas in his head for some time about what businesses' he wanted to do, and after some of the research and reverse engineering he did with the Sirrahi technology, he knew what he wanted to do.

Bjorn listened, a connection with a new gun manufacturer would be nice for his men. "Well, send me a few guns when you get it going, I been thinking about arming more of my men. If they are good enough, I might buy more."

Desmond nods his head, as he said with a light smile, [color=gold]"I will when production begins"[/color]. Desmond thought this would be a great beginning to his business.
[/hider]

Satisfied with making a connection with a hopeful upcoming gun maker, Bjorn turns to Ingrid, “You brought an interesting man to me,” Bjorn made a mark in his notebook. Ingrid demeanor went from slightly worried to immensely proud. Bjorn just patted her head, no one minded even though it seemed like favoritism. They knew Bjorn would never let that skew who he chose. “Go have fun Ingrid, I heard there are events happening across the city, I wish you the best in the next event,” Bjorn smiled and sent Ingrid and Desmond off. Ingrid gave a light bow and headed off.

Desmond gave a light wave as they headed off, as when they made it off of the ship Desmond turned to Ingrids and asked as he chuckled, [color=gold]”Hey can you help me take this to the bank? It’s kinda heavy and I would prefer some extra protection for this”[/color].

“Sure,” Ingrid said, “So even with all these funds, are you looking for any investors?” Ingrid asked with a smirk. She honestly had a lot of cash and needed to spread it out to not have it just sit there collecting dust.

Desmond looked up slightly as he thought for a minute, investors could be quite useful, especially with the start-up of any business, however, Desmond knew what he was doing could quickly turn from innovation and business to outright calling out other foundries and even Gunsmiths. Desmond looked to Ingrid and thought about what it could mean for Ingrid to have her name attached to it. He thought for a moment as he looked up once more and then finally said, [color=gold]”I think we could talk about it. I would like to discuss it with you in more detail though”[/color]. As Desmond turned to Ingrid as he said with a smile, [color=gold]”There’s some things I wanna make sure of with when I take people on, even as investors”[/color].

Ingrid raised an eyebrow as she walked with him, still staying vigilant for sticky hands. This was more money than a commoner could make in 5 lifetimes. “So what are those requirements?” Ingrid questioned.

Desmond said with his usual slight smile, [color=gold]”Oh, well, this isn’t just a business, what I wish to build is something like a place of innovation. There will be times where outside forces will try to control it. And I wish not to be controlled. It’s why I wanna make sure I can trust those who are in this to be able to stand against the control of others”[/color].

Ingrid understood what Desmond was getting at and to some degree, she agreed. “If you don’t want to be controlled, you are going to need allies. That is the fact of it,” Ingrid said before continuing to try and sell herself as an investor, “I know it might not seem like much but I also try to innovate. Before we met them, I was researching a way to use atomic to detect materials in the ground and through walls, it’s rough at the moment but after meeting them, I feel it’s more possible.”

Desmond lightly nodded his head as he listened and walked, he knew well he needed allies, people he could trust, it was why he was stringent on who he allowed in on his business. It was one of the ways people could invoke control over him. As Desmond listened he thought about Ingrid, who she was, what kind of control could be invoked over her, and could it affect him. 

He knew she was backed by the Eskandish crown during the Auction of the Box. However, she did also side with Sven when it was brought up to buy it out for themselves instead to take it out of the hands of others. Desmond couldn’t be certain however mattering on what spurred her to do it, however, to turn against one's own government means that control to be invoked over her would be much less likely.

Desmond thought for a moment longer as he finally broke his maybe half a minute long silence with, [color=gold]”Okay, we can talk about it. This isn’t a cheap endeavor, however, it should definitely be an interesting one”[/color]. Desmond then threw her another smile as they continued their way to the bank.

Ingrid smiled and would leave the rest of the conversation for later, satisfied that she had earned Desmond’s trust. 

[hider=Hidden Letter]
After Siv made his way out of the meeting, he didn’t meet up with his teammates right away. Instead, he wandered to the student dormitory. With the students bustling after the event, Siv made his way to Ingrid’s room with no more suspicion than any other man heading to the girl's dorm. He put a hand on his chest and clasped it like he was adjusting his clothes and took a deep breath before entering.

Siv arrived at Ingrid’s dorm. He stared at the door for a few moments, seemingly displeased and scrunched. He rubbed his face to knock away any emotions, reapplied his business-like smile and knocked on the door once, twice, wait for 5 and knock once more. Eirik opened the door promptly and spoke in Eskandish. “What is it?” he asked, seemingly knowing who it was.

“I have come with a small gift for my cousin,” Siv said quickly, obviously trying to get in.

Eirik huffed and let him in, “Fine, Speak to Åsa,” Eirik turned to go get her and Siv tried to enter the room only to feel himself be kinetically drained. “I did not say enter child, I’m still her guard.” Eirik made clear.

Åsa made it to the door, “Yes?” she asked, curious about the situation. Normally gifts would just be set to the side until lady Ingrid returned home. Though Åsa had known Siv when he was younger so it wasn’t bad to see him. 

“It is good to see you Åsa, I would have just handed off the gift to the guardsman but he seemed upset,” Siv said, trying to shake off whatever that interaction was with Eirik, he isn’t even a noble yet he used his gift against him.

Åsa looked behind her into the room, also wondering why he was only in a sour mood. A real Penderson he was. Åsa just shook her head, “Don’t mind him, I’ll take the gift for her lady.” Åsa moved for him to come in. Siv stepped in quickly and Åsa closed the door behind him.

They took a seat and Siv was given some water to drink while they talk, as it is not too long before Siv pulls out a beautiful emerald necklace, intricately designed with silver and gold. It was enough for Åsa to take a moment and behold it. She set it back into its case and said, “That is a very fine gift, anything else?” Åsa asked as she put it to the side, 

Siv breathes out, “There is,” Siv says with some sadness. He hands Åsa a letter from his breast pocket. Åsa unfolds the letter and reads, her face was its normal sternness but it slowly goes agape. “I see,” Åsa states, her face harder than before, “I understand, let me see you to the door.”
[/hider]
[/hider]
[hider=Chamber of Greed]
[h1]Chamber of Greed[/h1]
[hider=Enough is Enough]
The mission for the hourglass order went a little awry but overall we accomplished the main goal. There was a small incident with a century and some resistance but overall, it wasn’t the worst. No one got killed and the only person who got injured was Desmond from what looked like a Volti. Who could have ever thought that we would come across a Volti on our mission? 

We made our escape through the sewer, making out before the real situation went down. Ingrid couldn’t shake the natural anxiousness from sensing all those imminent mages readying themselves for battle.

Ingrid decided to spread the flyers near the student societies, knowing that more people would get see them this way. She was somewhat absentminded, her mind occupied by what was going on in the workman quarters. When she sensed some lamplighters she tried to hide but got caught casting her spell. She started to run but more and more of them came for her before a small woman guided her out

She got passed around between multiple people to get her away from the lamplighters, ending up in a large workshop. The discussion she had with them was tense, to say the least. She knew that they wouldn’t like her, even if she had wanted to help. She tried being honest, she knew that things wouldn’t be fixed with just a pamphlet. Ingrid hoped she made enough of an impression to leave but she was struck with a potent chemical attack, rendering her unconscious.

Ingrid didn’t know what would happen to her. All she felt was fear that came from losing control of her own life. If she died then she would have no say, if she lived she would have no say. All Ingrid prayed for was that she would wake up. 

Ingrid came to surrounded by cold, salty water. She breached the surface only to see chalky white cliffs and sea birds. Her head was wracked with pain, probably the aftereffect of the chemical attack she sustained. Ingrid was barely able to make out what looked to be a small boat. Trying to lift herself out of the water, she moved over to the fisherman. 

Ingrid wasn’t thinking about how she would appear to the fisherman, she just wanted to be out of the cold seawater.

Frightened, the fisherman began to paddle instinctively away. "Wh-who are you?" he demanded in Perrench. He looked up a the sky, gape-mouthed, and then at her. "How did you get here?"

Ingrid felt relieved to know that she was still in Perrench territory if the man was speaking it. Ingrid scratched her head, [color=8882be]"I have no idea how I got here, I shook hands with someone and they knocked me out. Next thing I know, I'm in the ocean. Do you know how far we are from Ersand'Ernise?"[/color] Ingrid asked the fisherman, trying to be polite and less intimidating. [color=8882be]"I really mean you no harm, I'm just not the best at flying with my head all messed up.”[/color]

He looked the soaking girl up and down in the early morning light, blinking incredulously. "I... a handshake knocked you out?" he replied. He shook his head. "Ersand'Enise?" He appeared to consider. "Mademoiselle, you are near Lombrai, right now, not so far from Enth." he held out a hand to help her aboard. "You said that you had struck your head?"

[color=8882be]"Not a handshake per se, but the magic he used on me during the handshake. My head hurts because the magic attacked my head,"[/color] Ingrid said, hoping that would explain it a bit better. She would deal with the soul-crushing weight of where she was in a bit but first, she grabbed his hand and boarded the ship, [color=8882be]"Thank you,"[/color] Ingrid smiled. Once she got on the boat she asked, [color=8882be]"Can I dry myself off with a bit of magic,"[/color] not wanting to spook him again.

The fisherman, still appearing rather confused, smiled as welcomingly as he could and looked away, perhaps not quite understanding. "Yes," he assured her. "Yes. I will look away." It took Ingrid only moments, of course. The man peered back when he was certain that she was finished, even though there had been no real reason for him to avert his eyes in the first place. "You need to go to shore," he questioned after a few more seconds, "yes?"

[color=8882be]"That be a good start I guess, I can push us there if you like, just tell me what shore is okay,"[/color] Ingrid said as she peered over at the rocky cliffs. She seemed pretty down. To keep her mind off of it she asked, [color=8882be]"What are you out on the waters for today? Are you bringing in the nets today?"[/color]

"Ha. Well, not quite," the man replied, reaching up for a second to adjust his cap. "I was headed out further, looking to land a torpedo since they're breeding 'round this time. No matter. I've got all day, though I won't refuse your offer of a boost."

Ingrid raised an eyebrow, [color=8882be]"That seems dangerous, but I know those eggs sell for a good bit. I hope you can get some. My friend found some thresher eggs near the capital of Enth recently."[/color] Ingrid started to speed the boat up, to a speed that it still felt under control but which was much more than they could achieve by paddling together. [color=8882be]"Do they lay their eggs on the cliff near the water?"[/color] Ingrid asked as she looked at the cliffs again. Anything to take her mind off of what is happening.

He shook his head, glancing out behind him at the sea. "They prefer the open water." Before too long, and with some direction, they were nearing a small cove that seemed to be home to a dock and a village. "You..." the fisherman hesitated. "You say you come from Ersand'Enise?" He swallowed. "How will you get back there?"

[color=8882be]"I honestly don't know, I don't know how long I have been out either,"[/color] Ingrid admitted. [color=8882be]"The trials were going on and we were on the last game, we even made it to the final game as well. It seems like I will miss it,"[/color] Ingrid had a hard time hiding the bitter sadness that brought her. She just sighed, letting it go for now, there was nothing she could do.[color=8882be] "I think if it comes down to it, I'll make my way to the capital of Enth and hitch a ride to the school from there."[/color]  Ingrid looked at the fisherman, [color=8882be]"Thank you for your kindness earlier, do you want me to give you another shove back into the water?"[/color]

They were at the dock. The fisherman paused. "Why yes," he replied. "I would appreciate that, but first..." He heaved a long sigh. "He had the unique misfortune of his nephew having been killed on the Isla d'Amato." The leathery man regarded her curiously. "And his brother died in a mining mishap. If he'd had his way, you'd have been dead." He shook his head. "But I have seen you for myself now, and not as some figure of myth and power, as a simple man." 

Then, it was a woman with long blonde hair who addressed her instead. "Your heart is not bad, even if your actions sometimes are. I doubt that some will ever forgive, but that is their issue." She smiled faintly, as if reaching a peace with something, and there was an enormous surge of magic. "Return to the school and your life and be aware of the people whose stories will never grace the pages of books. Treat them with kindness." With that, a portal appeared toward its bow. "Until we meet again," said the Traveler, now a crimson-robed man. Ingrid found herself alone in the rowboat, space and time and a way home open before her.

Ingrid was about to start drawing in what she needed to start sending him back into the waters but then things changed. The fisherman was no longer the fisherman, he referred to himself. And when he brought up the nephew who died Isla d'Amato, Ingrid knew for sure that this was something else someone who knew about what she did. Her heart grew weak with the memory of that small boy’s corpse. The man he referred to she didn't even know but she was sure that it was connected to her family. All such terrible things. Her guilt was so heavy that she didn't even raise a defense.

When the man turned into a woman she wasn't sure still, she seemed familiar but her mind was hazy still from remembering what happened on the island. Once Ingrid was alone she tried reflecting on it but she just wanted to be back. She felt like a wreck. She stepped through the portal. Not angry or scared just remembering what she did.

The portal took her into an alleyway near her dorm. Some students were already moving about but not many have left their rooms. Ingrid was about to head to her dorm to just wallow for a while and compose herself for the upcoming trial. The worst thing Ingrid could imagine is that she let her team down. [color=8882be][i]We worked so hard to get this far, I have to be can’t be out of it today,[/i][/color] Ingrid thought as she was about to open her dorm to grab some things to calm her nerves. There was some reservation in her heart. She had relied on these substitutions for a long time when she had no one there. Now was slightly different, she could rely on someone. Ingrid headed back to her Zeno's house to go see Dory, her closest friend. 

Ingrid gently knocked on their shared room to see if Dory was awake.

[color=86608E]“The door’s unlocked, come one in.”[/color] The Feskan girl was comfortably sitting down, enjoying her book. Fairy tales of all sorts from all over Drudgunze. Tales such as ‘Olde Kriemhilde’ A tale about a woman who aspired to be a knight… the Ending is rather painful… or the famous tale of Little Cappy Mitzy. A tale about a girl, wearing a signature little cap visiting her Grandfather… This ending might even beat out the previous one with how grotesque it is… 

Upon entering the room it was obvious Ingrid was weary. Clothes had that dull staleness dry sea soaked clothes, her hair the same. She could definitely use a bath. Ingrid gave a small smile, [color=8882be]"Hey… can I stay with you for a bit,"[/color] Ingrid seemed unsure, uncomfortable asking, [color=8882be]"Maybe talk a little?"[/color] Ingrid rubbed her arm, anxious for a reply.

"Of course you can. Why wouldn't you be able to stay here?" She gave the girl a warm smile, soon enough noticing something might have happened. "Hey, did something happen? You don't look like your usual self."

Ingrid shuffled over to Dory, taking a seat next to her. Ingrid didn’t know what to say, how does she begin? Ingrid rubbed her arm and decided to start by asking, [color=8882be]"Did you get home safely after dropping off the flyers?"[/color] Ingrid was obviously in the best state but she found it easier to ask how Dory was to start than to just speak herself. 

Dory gave Ingrid a reassuring look. "Everything went perfectly according to plan. I got home safely and even had time to read!" After turning a page she placed her hand on her friend's leg. "Now, enough about me. How did you fare after we split up?"


Ingrid smiled slightly that she was safe. She would hate it if she had to deal with that. Ingrid kept hold of herself as she spoke, “I thought it was going well but I got caught by the Lamplighters. I was able to get away with some help.” Ingrid stopped abruptly as she realized all that was probably set up, they weren’t helping her they led her to a trap. “They led me to a workshop and it was full of people, not very friendly people. They knew my name but I trusted them because they helped me escape,” Ingrid said bitterly. Bitter that they had tricked her, that she gave them the benefit of the doubt. “I shouldn’t have trusted them. They knocked me out with magic. They had been hunting me. It was personal.” Ingrid didn’t shake but her breath was loud like she was trying to self-regulate. 

Dorothea’s expression changed from a warm smile to something more akin to a look of concern. “Were they from a rival family back home? Why would they be hunting you?” She began to remember her own experience with being attacked a couple days ago. “Did it have anything to do with that ruckus after the melon derby?... People seem rather mad with what happened back then.” 

“No,” Ingrid quickly corrected, “They were with the traveler, maybe agents? I’m unsure what makes one an agent of the traveler.” Ingrid breathed out, remembering what happened. “After they knocked me out I was suddenly falling into the ocean, I was near Enth.” Ingrid went silent for a moment realizing that she was being tested and judged. “The Traveler was there,” Ingrid said, fear in her eyes. “It judged me for my sins and the sins of my father.” Ingrid knew that she would be judged for what she did, she just thought it would be herself and the gods when she passes. Not the Traveler. 

"Judged you for your sins? You say that as if the Traveler is some sort of god… and the sins of your ancestors should not be your burden to bear. Something like that is unfair." The girl tried to be a calming voice for her rather shaken up friend. "I don't think anyone has the right to judge someone so harshly… not even the gods for even they have flaws of their own."”

Ingrid shook her head, “That’s the issue, I don’t think the traveler cares. Well, I’m unsure.” Ingrid took a breath out, “They took the form of a fisherman and tested how I would act I guess. Like an experiment… They made it clear at the end that this was the deciding factor if I live or die.” Ingrid felt cold, when would she be tested again, and when would the agents just kill her even if she is trying to do good? “I…I’m scared. I’m scared that one day I’m going to end up dead because her agents think that is correct.” Ingrid leaned on Dory, looking for some comfort. Ingrid felt a spiral of emotions as she opened her heart.

“You ending up dead?” The Feskan sighed. “I do not think you are truly the evil the Traveler is fighting against… If anything I am much more likely.” A rather weak smile covered her face. “I do not think they would kill you without a specific reason.” Dory placed her hand onto Ingrid’s. “And even if that might happen some day, it will just mean you have to enjoy life to the fullest. Live, Ingrid. Even if others might look at you weird, even if you might get comments about it…”

Ingrid smiled, she didn’t feel better but the attempt was enough to steer her mind to a more optimistic view.[color=8882be]"If you think I am not the evil they are trying to get rid of then you should be fine,”[/color] Ingrid rested her head on Dory’s, [color=8882be]”You are one of the sweetest people I’ve met."[/color] Ingrid didn’t know how to respond to such confidence, no strength, [color=8882be]"Maybe you can live like that, and I hope I can possess half that strength, but right now I could settle for a bit of reading before we compete in our final game."[/color] Ingrid nodded over to the book that Dory was reading. 

Dory snorted. “I’m not strong at all, I’m a runt that got a couple years to live before I’m married off!” The girl bursted out in laughter before looking at Ingrid once more. “I am not sweet. I just treat people how I wish to be treated.” She placed the book between them. “You’re interested in what I’m reading?” 

[color=8882be]"Yeah getting married off,"[/color] Ingrid said solemnly. The mere thought made Ingrid cringe. She wanted to control her destiny now and being married off enraged a part of her, for all her friends. Ingrid spoke up, [color=8882be]"But you have Manfred!," [/color]Ingrid cheered, [color=8882be]"He's pretty alright."[/color] Ingrid didn't like Manfred, in fact, he was the one person she hoped to have perished during the trials. He doesn't deserve her. Ingrid smiled, [color=8882be]"Of course! I love all books. I think my chambers are more books than anything else."[/color]

“Manfred.. I do have him for how long I can postpone it..” The girl sighed, something about what was said bothered her. “He’s more than alright, Ingrid. He makes me feel like I am more than a black sheep…” She bit her lip in frustration. “I truly wish to live the rest of my life with him… But I’m scared I will just be married off if he doesn’t…” The girl touched her hat, rubbing it softly. “I would give my all for him.” 

Not the response Ingrid expected, nor the one she wished to hear. Ingrid didn’t have something like that and to be supposedly in love so quickly made her suspicious. But it was Dory saying all this. Dory was straightforward and truthful for the better part. Ingrid sighed, “Well if you feel that strongly,” Ingrid’s voice made no attempt to hide that she doesn’t care for Manfred, “We can try to convince him and your parents. In all honesty, he isn’t a bad suitor. From what I know his land is close so you have some more protection and his family has some people of great renown.” Ingrid was already thinking but stopped, “I told you I would be there to help with anything, and that even means getting you to that wedding with your chosen.” Ingrid gave a hug to Dory and admitted, “I worry that I will be married off as well, so please be there when I might need help,” Ingrid chuckled. 

Dory laughed at the prospect of someone so strong needing her help. “Well, I will do what I can when that happens, although I doubt I could do much if it came to anything requiring firepower.” The girl leaned in to place her forehead against the other. “Listen, Ingrid. You are strong, really strong. Take that firepower and put that in your words. If your parents want to marry you off, tell them to find a better one!” Dory chuckled. “You are a highly sought after woman, after all. Any man would be more than happy to be with you.” 

Ingrid tittered, “I wish it was that easy,” Ingrid shook her head, “Even with my strength, it isn’t like my family is weak. I don’t care if they are happy with me, I want to be happy. And that means more than them being handsome or having high RAS.” Ingrid took a breath, “I don’t know if I can force my way into a happy marriage. I think I will have to settle with someone I at least don’t find insufferable.” Ingrid could feel the conversation weighing her down. She was strong, but with that strength came more pressure. “Can we read the book?” Ingrid asked, avoiding any more talk about arranged marriage. 

Dory sighed, letting the topic drop itself for now. “Of course we can, I do hope you don’t mind if some of these stories don’t have the most happy endings.” The girl chuckled. “What kind of story do you want to read first?” 

Ingrid sighed in relief that Dory would drop it. Maybe Ingrid should see herself as more but that’s not for now. Now was book time, “Any book, I like them all, even some that would be too much for you,” Ingrid teased as she pivoted to laying down. Scooting into the corner, “You want to narrate or I?” Ingrid asked ready to settle down for the moment they had before the last event.[/hider]

Ingrid felt calmer going into the Chamber than she thought. She was a wellspring of knowledge and felt she could answer almost anything but she had a much bigger prize in mind. The Great Neskal chest. Rarely is it ever seen to make it out and Ingrid felt that if she could get one she would be able to secure first place for her team. 

The first round was the most difficult and with Ingrid not knowing how to breathe, whether they could get the chest was of serious question. But that first round had given them information that would change the game. With that Ingrid worked on a plan with her team. Coming up with the pathing and setting up the needed support. With there only ever been a handful of people to ever get it, Ingrid felt that at least one should remain there. The plan was sound and had fail safes built into it.

But as the 2nd turn happened and Ingrid rushed over there at full speed, it was gone. She ran over to the 2nd one believing there would still be one. But no. Both were taken and Ingrid’s heart sank a bit but she had to keep moving. The team needed her. She retrieved the Magus chest so quickly that even with the hiccup, she had more than a minute left. She grabbed some other chests and the scepter of Ahn-Shune. And overall, Ingrid felt like she salvaged the situation. Giving a hug to Ismette as she lept through the portal with seconds to spare. She did the best she could and felt proud of her attempt. She prayed to Eshiran-Zept for their victories and Oraff-Zept for their safety. 

At the end of it all, they did fine. Coming 4th once again. Never having touched the top 2 podium spots and as much as she really wanted to, she couldn’t be upset with the results. She did something that she didn’t think was possible for her team. She felt so proud. But then came Right or Spite.
[/hider]
[hider=Right or Spite & The Auction]
[h1]Right or Spite & the Auction[/h1]
The last event left Ingrid bitter. Even if she knew she shouldn’t be. By all metrics she should feel sweeter than honey and light as air, celebrating that her team made it this far. Rejoicing with her fellow countryman that they made such a strong showing after the humiliation they faced only a few months ago. But instead, Ingrid was bitter at the results of Right or Spite. She felt she had been kind in the games, save for a few key moments. And their position dropped. Everyone’s dropped except for Zemana’s group, [i]Ayla’s group[/i]. 

No, they had risen. Not merely a spot but to the very top. It irked her, to have her team's efforts be sullied by some sort of scheme concocted by that Desert Kitten. It had to be her, Ingrid knew it. Ayla was immensely talented and the way she could orchestrate her team gave no doubt that she had lied and plotted to get all those votes. It just felt so unsportsman of her, like it was a game but was it worth it to lie to everyone to come first? She knew that the point of the game was to try to get points but Ingrid believed that it should have been based on the merits and character they had shown. Ingrid felt lied to, like she didn’t know who Ayla was. Her worse 

The Auction was here with all the unique items that were not grabbed. Ingrid had only really planned a few things to buy. Well, that was the plan anyways. Buying felt good. It lightened her mood in a way she couldn’t describe. She went overboard on it, spending way too much on way too many things. Some items she didn’t truly want and simply through a bid for truly no reason and one. She had lost something that she really wanted and it was to Ayla and her best friend Maura. Ingrid was angry and pouty, making stupid, weightless threats in her head for only herself to hear. But no, they bought it fair and square. Nothing else really happened at the auction this time around. No political warfare to make things tense. 
[hider=Items bought]
A Trickster Wyrm egg for 120 Magus.
Some special cheese for 70 Magus.
A Savanah Runner egg for 120 Magus.
A Qilin Egg for 220 Magus
The Amazing Speak Trout for 400 Magus
A Slave barge for 145 Magus
Another set of cheese from Jomurr More for 145 Magus
And a magic guide for 200 Magus. [/hider]
[/hider]
[hider=Aberration Madness]
[h1]Aberration Madness[/h1]
Summary of Sven, Niallus, and Ingrid
Ingrid, Niallus, and Sven had grouped together in the confusion of the sudden appearance of black aberrations around the city. A quick conversation was had if they could truly swipe the Music Box during the chaos. Ingrid, ever the worrier, was against it since the plans they had made would be mute. So with that, they made their way toward the dormitories. 

They ran through the edge of the merchant district, right by the bathhouse before Sven sensed something, two things actually. Something that seemed to be right in front of Ingrid’s dorm room and something that Ingrid elaborated to be ‘The Tip’. Concerned that her dorm may be ransacked, they head on over. 

A small black aberration was found by Sven and Niallus who gleefully absorbed it. Ingrid was peeved and gave them both a light kick in the rump. Things were still jovial until a demon appeared. The demon came at them quickly, launching at them what could only be felt to be an invisible fireball. Ingrid dispelled it easily but some of the transparent flames licked Niallus’s arm. Ingrid tried to crush it into the ground but it was quick and disappeared into shadows. 

Nerves ran high as the three waited for some kind of attack. The demon rose out of the shadows and grabbed Sven’s leg to pull him into the ground. But it was only an illusion placed by Sven Bjørnsson, one so great to trick the demon and with a flash of light, Sven had seemingly dispelled the demon. A breather was had about what that was and Sven healed Niallus’s light burns. After checking on Ingrid’s servant, they decided to head to The Tip.

They had made it to the sea wall and as they were about to leap over, the Arcane Demon appeared again, this time performing something akin to Eshiran-Zept’s army. They spread across the three, the majority being focused on Ingrid. Niallus barely defended his own two assailants and Sven handily defeated his own. Ingrid had three on her, two she could defend but the last one was close to devastating her, it tugged on her internal organs. Sven hurried over and dissuaded the attack on her. The two sides were at a standstill once more.

The demon attacked again but it was different. It was a powerful attack that Niallus couldn’t hope to defend and with the others preoccupied, Niallus was left for dead. But it seemed something had spared him for now. 

The world stopped. Blood dripped from the sky into a rain. The demon that was once there shattered into thousands of fragments. This was no illusion to trick the three this was something else.

In the spectacle of absurdity that they were witnessing, a sword of blood manifested from a puddle aimed at Sven. It gouged his stomach out and left him bleeding on the flagstone. That was the but the opening act.

A black chasm ripped open from the ground, and the feeling of the void permeated the three. Blood evaporated away leaving a smell of iron throughout the dorms. The demon let out a howl that shook the essence of the students. Its eyes gleamed and it was now awake. The swirls of heat change instantly into freezing cold and the blood now snows to shape ramshackle towers, congealing to form sickle-like arms. Unbeknownst to the 3 students, the demon that ripped itself from the abyss was none other than The Grand Demon Yabuchadzan, the avatar of tyranny emerges, blood dripping in rivulets and waterfalls from its crowned head.

The demon made quickly struck at the three with a myriad of spines that destroyed everything in the way, houses collapsed, and animals were skewered. Ingrid was no exception to this as they had been focused on her. Niallus saved her from immediate death and Sven healed her with the abundant energy that was now available. They had survived the first attack but The Avatar of Tyranny was not done. 

He commanded them, KNEEL. Niallus and Sven had fallen to their knees but Ingrid stood, she would come to regret standing so defiantly. The Demon threw her body into the air with little effort and smashed her into the ground over and over as the other two had to watch their friend become what seemed like a mangled corpse. Niallus had risen his will to resist the command only to be brought to his knees by Sven’s chemical attack under the demon’s order. 

Eventually, Sven breaks free and runs over to heal Ingrid, hoping she still had the ability to heal. Much to his surprise he was able to stitch her back together in this bleak situation, saving her life for not. Niallus blasted from the cobblestone streets and plunged his Arcane Sword into the Demon’s neck. He landed a hit, an actual hit. The demon absorbed the sword afterward but that wasn’t the end. The chest of the demon exploded. 

Another monster had joined the fight, friend or foe was unknown but it seemed to be able to hurt the demon. The energy that got pulled from the surrounding rendered the three unconscious as a battle of titans happened. Just as the fight started, it quickly ended. None of them knew what happened but they had to take time to heal, to accept what had happened. Driven by the desire to just move away from that accursed area, they went to The Tip.

There they found a small aberration, so small in fact that trying to share it would just be pointless. They gave it to Ingrid and it was still nothing of true substance. But the gesture was nice enough. After that, they walked down from the Tip to Brazen Head and then to Queen’s Gate. But upon walking over, Sven felt another aberration coming from the Bathhouse. They headed over.

The bathhouse was going to be extra appreciated as they were still covered in blood from their last event encounter. Surprisingly, there were fish in the waters and in particular a really angry one that leaped out at Ingrid. Sven pleated with Ingrid last second not to kill it but Ingrid was in no mood for shenanigans and blasted the fish with a kinetic kick. At first, things were still jovial, Ingrid tends to be crazier every time she almost dies. But the fish was not down somehow. The fish was bigger and stronger.

The fish leaped at Ingrid again and swallowed her, going up to her head. Ingrid screamed and the group struggled unsuccessfully to get it off of her. Things went from funny to dangerous when it sucked mana from her and grew in strength. Oh no, they all thought, it is the Demon fish of Endless Frustration! The fish leaped off of Ingrid and went for Sven. Sven dodged and it went after Niallus now. Niallus and the Fish clashed like battle hardened warriors, neither giving any ground, flashes of Arcane Swords against the Fish’s sturdy tail. Dishonorably, the Fish went for the weakened Ingrid and sucked her essence again, growing stronger. At this point the fish was dominating the battle, having grown so strong that it could contend with the likes of Jocasta or Hugo. This Fish was a threat that could become worst than Revidia and Perrence going to war. Sven made a desperate attempt to calm it with his chemical magic but the Fish’s rage could not be confined by magic. And then it got Sven.

At this point all hope was lost, they could no longer even attempt to overpower the godlike entity. But as spiteful as the Fish was, Ingrid was more so. Her magic cut in half she ran over to the bar and found a bottle of spirits to hit the Fish. Grabbing its rageful gaze as the first one to hurt it, the Fish flopped over at Ingrid with considerable speed, smashing her into a wall, and breaking her bones but her plan had worked. It flopped in broken glass and alcohol covered it’s body. Niallus ignited the booze and Sven increased the flame. Ingrid watched her nemesis get cooked by Sven and she smiled at its death. 

A rageful hunger took over and they proceeded to eat the now beer battered fish. They couldn’t eat all of it but what they could was delicious. Little did they know that eating the fully grown demon fish had altered their very bodies, turning them into Bottomfeeders. They went for the aberration and gave it to Niallus in full as he was the only one to not get sucked by the fish. Ingrid would have been fine ending it there, drinking booze and bathing but Sven and Niallus wanted more so they headed now toward the academy

Upon reaching the Academy Sven, the aberration hound, sensed something in the Grand Library. Ingrid worried for the books and they rushed in and quickly found the aberration. It was larger this time so all 3 shared it. Ingrid was fine and surprisingly Niallus was as well. Sven though had finally gone mad. And in his madness, he rushed to Ingrid pulled her in, and went to make out with her. A gesture she would normally accept but she worried that their first kiss would not be one he would consent to, Ingris blocked it with her hand and said maybe later. Sven like the true gentleman he is came to his senses immediately and apologized with some rose painted on his cheeks. The city had calmed down and the trio was left in the library with so many questions to ask about what happened.
[/hider]
[hider=Forked Tower]
[h1]Forked Tower[/h1]
Ingrid had initially entered the Forked Tower to see the secrets of the 2 artifacts. Secretly, she never saw herself making it. Her team could have been better but they made it. She set off to do her goal but was pulled away by Yuliya’s antics. And from that, Ingrid’s whole time in the Forked Tower had been changed. 

Through cooperation and some trust, they solved the puzzles and games that the tower presented to them. In retrospect, the puzzles were simple in a way that undermined the authority of the tower but that somehow made it all the more challenging. Space seemed to warp with each puzzle and at the end, they were greeted by an angel they found out later to be Ahn-Dami. 

Ahn-Dami was not what Ingrid expected, she was oh so human that she came off as a friend. She was beyond charming and Ingrid found out first hand that the god could tease as good as Zarina. So many questions were answered and they were instructed to have Yuliya’s book of Ahn-Shune and Trypanpo’s Lantern Shune-Zept. When they touched out popped the most adorable nerd. Watching them act as siblings was heartwarming, Ingrid could only ponder how the Eshiran duo would act. 

Soon Shune Zept arrived and frankly, he was crazy. Lively and somewhat insane but Ingrid could understand his attitude to a degree. She felt similarly when she played with magic or whenever she was exploring something new. Uncovering secrets, even small ones, filled Ingrid with joy. Even if some of her discoveries made her anxious or scared. That was the nature of information. Some fun times at various locals later were brought to end in a room they called The Chamber of Time and Space.

They answered lots of questions that we had. Some vague than others but in the end, the amount of info that was offered by them was enough to scare some and give hope to a few. We were given time to learn whatever school of magic that we wanted and even the forbidden schools were there. 

Before all that happened, Ingrid would have jumped at the opportunity to learn Temporal. But Hugo’s words weighed on her she decided she wasn’t ready for that, not yet. Instead, she turned to Arcane where she was confronted that more than anything, her lack of knowledge wasn’t the issue at the moment. It was her skill. She had felt this way for a while now but the dimension she was brought to for training proved it. Her skill was bad, terrible even, and that was holding her back.


Ingrid thinks she had found something else out as well. Her magic, and possibly those around her, seems to grow the fastest when she is in danger or stressed. The Arcane room realize this when she died again and again to the birds who constantly tested her ability. It never stopped. Her mind felt damaged but the lesson did not stop. Ingrid believes this is why she was able to grow so quickly. That high stress caused her Mana to learn to survive. She either got better or die. 

Once she left the room she could have chosen anything. No one else seemed to make their way out of their lessons. Then again, everyone else went through the scariest of the forbidden magic. Yuliya and Kaspar went through the school that Ahn-Dami warned about and the rest went into the school that allowed Hugo to rewind the world and change history dozens of times. They were terrifyingly tempting to her still but what reason she needed them? For Strength? To protect herself? Does she just wish to learn because she can? Were any of these good enough to learn? Ingrid couldn’t decide but she knew one thing.

Her life had been in constant danger. Her friends had nearly died so many times. And all she could do with all her supposed strength is fight against their assailants and hope that someone else can save them. She had a chance to kickstart that. To learn more and to become the shield that they need. By Oraff-Zept I won’t let someone die on my watch. Ingrid delved into the school for binding and blood.

The scene she was presented with was gentle at first. Simply teaching her how to stop a ball from and draw it into energy. A simple task with her little brother tossing her a ball. It took a while but she eventually got it. The room changed and she was then under siege. She was fighting again, this time there were arrows flying at her and her friends. She stopped the ones aimed at her but some of her friends got hit. Over and over this repeated until she could dispel the entire barrage. 

After that, she was faced with something else entirely she was in a medical tent where the injured were being treated. She was given the quickest, most gruesome lesson in biology and she needed to make decisions that would change lives. Do you operate? Do you amputate? Do you hope that they survive? Do you let the White Rezaindians come in with their milk and let Eshiran take them These were the choices that those without binding needed to make. 

Ingrid could see the binder trying there best, healing as she can but she was ragged. She was tired. She was unwavering in her attempts to save the injured and sick. She was without a doubt a hero in her own way. She was the one doing the work that directly helped the people. 

Ingrid left there with some knowledge. She could continue on to another orb but her mind hurt, she was tired. She retired from her magic studies and read up on Sanguianire’s first while Yuliya and the others studied were still learning secrets. Zeno Secrets for some gossip and other things. Sirrahi because there might be a cell phone in one of the books or a spell to call them. And finally the Volti, they were connected to many things and who knows, this might hold their secrets.

Ingrid left the Forked tower feeling satisfied with what she learned even if the others would call her a fool for not partaking in forbidden magic. 
[/hider]
[hider=Timeskip to Nox Arcanum]
[h1]Timeskip to Nox Arcanum[/h1]
The world seemed to collapse during the Trials and briefly after. Hidden plot after hidden plot and bubbling tensions spilling over and causing death. From commoners almost killing a princess of Perrench and the Auction being stolen. A box to control the strongest dragon was taken away by unknown forces. The school collapsed into chaos as aberration ran rampant through the city. Her and her friends almost dying and from what she knows, someone actually dying. Meeting the gods and learning so many things.

Yet it all seemed to stop. War adverted and ships sailed again. Hugo died but not much happened other than a funeral. Life continued. Ingrid thought she would calm, that she could get back to herself. Trying to better herself. Trying to be a better person.

But it wasn’t working. She told herself that she didn’t care for power and money. And she resisted the Forked Tower’s forbidden magic but that was but a single action, not a pattern of change for her. She held hatred in her heart for slights against her and she saw actions still in the means of gains and loss. She even lost her composure and started threatening someone because she thought she could. 

If anything, Ingrid had gotten worse. She had gained the confidence to stand up and act on her own behalf. She was strong. She did have agency. She wasn’t just some marriage candidate that was born for her family’s benefit. Somewhere along the way, she went a little power happy. She wasn’t as caring about the things she thought she was. She was less empathetic and cared for only herself.

This… wasn’t what she wanted. She wanted to have friends and be able to care for people as she wanted. To be more than herself. She started to get depressed and move away from people, keeping up only what she was obligated to do. She had to rethink things. How many friendships has she damaged, and how many people has she stepped on while thinking solely for herself?

Normally when she wanted to reflect she would weigh everything against one another and then tally the outcome. But this was different. A change in methodology was what she needed to try. Her mindset needed to change along with her actions. It took a while before she started to interact with people in a meaningful way. She weighed her actions on how people responded instead of how much it benefitted her. It seemed small but it wasn’t her primary way of looking at things. 

What she struggled with was that she could not change how she acted in the past or how people perceived her actions now but eventually, she learned that doesn’t matter. Not in who she is trying to be. She wanted to grow past current herself.

Besides that, Ingrid had upped the intensity of her training. She frequented Eshiran’s Chosen for spars and demonstrations on fighting. She studied in the library how to better her sensing capabilities and actively hammered her weaknesses to improve. All of it was to try to ready herself next time she needed to fight. She studied triage in case it was needed though she hoped that next time she needed she would be able to heal. 

The most intensive thing however was asking Benny to spar. She wasn’t nervous not about dying or getting hurt but because Ingrid knew this was her asking for help. She cared for him and if he had been older, she would have tried to go on a few dates. Ingrid knew he was strong and she didn’t want to profit off of his strength. Ingrid grew courageous enough to ask Benny for that. She needed to ready herself for the future. She prepared offers in exchange if he was hesitant but much to her surprise he was okay with it. 

They met on every Victendes and Pandes for sparring. It was rough, it seemed Benny had gotten even stronger. Broken bones were considered acceptable and somewhat the norm against him and Atomic magic was used more freely with Ingrid being proficient and him being exceptionally good at it. Ingrid shared a spell she picked up from a book called Ahn-Oraff’s Furious Creation. Ingrid could only get it to work every now and then but it seemed like something he could use. It wasn’t payment but hopefully a gesture of their friendship.

Other than that she finally got her business off the ground. Shipping was going rough at the start but such a large ship was bound to make profits. She spent money on Jocasta to teleport her around to make her business easier. The hardest part of making a shipping business is setting up proper connections in different ports and buyers in each. It was normal to see losses when you are just starting off. But Ingrid’s expertise, prior connections, and ability to move across the south end of the twin continents gave her unparalleled luck in her first half year of running.

She also set up some extra routes through Dami’s eye for Spratz and through the inland sea between Miatto and Perrench to the school. Along with paying for part of her next galleon, buying carts and a few other ships, investing in Blackfield Armory, and setting up a sausage business. Ingrid’s business was moving up in scale. But Ingrid kept her personal investment in her things limited. As long as she was making some profits she was fine. This was to increase her presence and give her more power in the long run. 

Even with her wanting to change, she needed to keep putting money into herself so that way she could compete for the head of her family. It felt futile but she kept going at it for her own conscience.

She felt conflicted. On one hand, she has tried to go against her nation to prevent the death of the innocent, and on the other side a new fear of the traveler’s agents. They had taken her hostage oh so easily. Who is to say it won’t happen again and that this time they will take her life? These thoughts that she may die because of her family’s actions had gotten to the point that she started having passing thoughts of getting rid of them. Ingrid never let them take hold but the fact that they had showed up worried her. 
She hadn’t tried to repair relationships with people and just trying to not damage them anymore. But she wanted to just stay consistent, and give some confidence to them by not being who she was. Ingrid won’t lie it was difficult keeping herself away. In that time it seemed Sven had moved to someone new and that was alright. Esmi seems sweet and they have a lot of shared interests. It sucked but opportunities come and go and she was thinking of someone else as well. 

Niallus had been growing on her. Not initially though and in fact, he was closer to pissing her off. But he was sweet and consistent. He had moments when they were exploring the catacombs where he was brave and witty. It took some time for Ingrid to accept that he was just nice. She tried to ask him out on the Day of Fortune. 

The catacombs bore many fruits like that secret laboratory for her friend Trypano. It took time to get the materials and equipment down there for her but it was worth it. Ingrid made her a copy of the map and highlighted escape routes for her church defying friend.

With that, Nox Arcanum was going to start soon. The Enchantment Union Ingrid had joined originally thinking she would have to discard her nobility for freedom now made her feel nervous months later. There was a high likelihood that there were Traveler agents there. Ingrid couldn’t bare going there to such a wild party. So instead she committed to the Eskandish student union and got the honor of slaying the Keampo ko. The battle was rough with only a spear and kinetic enhancement but she got off okay with only a crushed body and mangled arm. All things are easily healed by a binder of moderate skill. 

Ingrid the day of Nox Arcanum dressed as colorfully as she could with a slight snake theme. She was in charge of smoking and roasting the keampo ko and she loved every second of it. It was peaceful and she got to run the hot dog stand. She had no friends with her but that’s fine, I’m sure they are off having a good time. Especially since she had a visitor coming over later that night.
[/hider]
[hider=Ingrid's Finances ]
WHEN I GET AROUND TO IT. GOD
[/hider]

[hider=Notes]
I will edit this at a different point I wanted it out. Sue me.
[/hider]