Master Kenner's Story

Akhira
Kenner looked on as the birds just stared back at the two of them, reaching out, and letting a small sparrow clamber up onto his hand. "They are just curious, that's all. Not to mention beings like you, and I are capable of drawing them from far around with our presence alone..." He began to pet the bird lightly, as it keened into his touch.

"So have you decided?" He added after a small stem of silence.

"Like I said, the decision to have at least a normal life here is up to you, and what would you be losing?"

"If you were so free in the world before, then you wouldn't have ended up here in the first place, and at least here you can have a home here.. for as long as you desire." He cups his hands around the bird, and tosses it off the balcony, letting it flutter back out over the sea. "I know you miss you're wings, and the rush of life that flight gives you, believe me I do know. But in time such a privilege will merely be returned to you, you have lost nothing that cannot be regained, and that does not mean that you will not gain more then you already have."

He sidles up to her for a moment, slowly pulling her hand down from his face as she tried to meet it to his eyes again. "In all respects, its a better option than being someone's show piece down there in the crown." He gestures off into the distance, and she could just barely make out the cities sky line just over the forest that sat at the edge of Kenner's territory.

Babble
As the small musical rant tapered off, the other two came up behind Babble to look over him. "I don't know if we should take that as a yes or no.." Chlorra added with her usual monotone draw. "I'm beginning to wonder if the Master would even let him stay in earnest... though he is just a shell. Maybe we could free him from it, and let his essence go free?" Misha passes over Babble, and stares into him, taking in his features. He could see that her eyes were shifting steadily as she examined him, though the dilating shapes, and the brightening of her pupils easily betrayed any notion that she was human as well.

"Really..? That's too bad."
"I could use someone with his skill, and potential."

She reaches down, and slightly lifts his chin to get a better look at his eyes. "But to be honest, he already looks rather dead inside. Not to mention the erratic behavior could throw off more than a few of my clients."

Agni sits there for the time being, keeping her head fix on them, and holding the string of her cello under the palm of her left hand.

The birds were annoying, but after Kenner's explanation they were no longer interesting.

Akhira hated how he could see into her mind so easily. To see her hope and how she wanted to be free. It made her even more anxious. This Being before her was old and ancient, and far too incomprehensible for her to really map into what she thought of the world. Except, he did seem to help her with her illness, at least for the moment. She immediately pulled her hand away when he touched it; She had never liked physical contact in this form. Her attempt to block his sight had been of pure panic and would never happen again.

Akhira tilted her head so that her hair would cover her eyes, and bit her bottom lip with her canines. She had had enough of this strange dream and wanted it to be over. The odd fight on her way here, the way this all seemed to be happening, like a kick to the stomach. She was now a possession in this Primordial One's mind and he would never take her seriously it seems. After all, I'm just a child in his mind.

Anger at her inability to change this form filled her. It was a bad mixture of pain, hatred and anger all swirling inside her, this time directed back at herself. It was this form that seemed to make all the others view her as nothing but a beautiful thing to be taken, stolen or fought for... even be coddled and treated like an adorable doll by the female humans. It all irritating.

Akhira looked to city, whereupon she saw the glint of rooftops and Windows in the distance. She felt that in some small way, Kenner was lying to her. Could what is really lost be regained? No. How could he say all this to her and expect her to believe it? A dark emotion welled up in her chest, made her teeth sharpen instinctively, breaking through What LOOKED like the skin of her lip to show the light from under her flesh. "Fine, but can I go back to my room, I can start doing whatever it is you assign me to tomorrow."

She was sure of it somehow, this place would choke her slowly until all her hope was gone. Captivity, even one as spacious as this, was still Captivity.

Kennor looked down at the young dragon and smirked, her internalized feelings playing across on he face as he watched.

He slowly looked away as he flicked his hand, causing the birds to scatter in short order.
"You can return to your room if you'd like, I have no problem with letting you go out into the world either. Just so long as you are back within these walls before the sun sets tonight." He places his hand at her back, and slowly starts to guide her back into the building. The two of them walking down the hall that they took before, with bodies moving aside for them as they made their way. "Maybe in time things will change for you, but that is entirely up to whether you want them to or not." They both stopped at a section of metal doors, ones that she could recognize as those that let them move between floors. He paired off in front of her before saying his piece to her "I am going to leave you to your own devices for now, just return to the main floor and ask a maid to take you to your room. They will also be willing to help you in any fashion you see fit, so don't hesitate to ask." He turns at continues to walk down the hall, with only a small pat on her head to say a small farewell.

Only for his voice to wring out before she loses site of him around a corner. "Many of them are more than willing to serve.

"I am going to leave you to your own devices for now, just return to the main floor and ask a maid to take you to your room. They will also be willing to help you in any fashion you see fit, so don't hesitate to ask."

Akhira blew out a breathe of smoke, the look of intense concentration on her face as she attempted to focus on his words. This time from her sudden interest in exploring the... Castle?

What was it even called? She felt that calling it a 'Castle' did not fit. The word simply did not suit it.

Wandering thoughts leading her astray, Akhira refocused on Kenner... and was irritated with how he patted her on the top of her head before taking off. The simple gesture normally wasn't enough to bring out her bad side or even stop her thought processes but... Because it was Kenner, it made her halt completely in her thoughts so that she could look up at Him, an innocently questioning expression on her face watching him leave.

"Many of them are more than willing to serve."

Akhira blinked and stewed silently grumbling at the way this Primordial One had the ability to distract her... And probably the whole world if he wanted to. The way Kenner is and the idea that he could distract anyone resulted with a small growl that should anyone have heard and known why she growled, would think the situation to be quite humorous.

Akhira shook her head and tried to focus, really focus on what she was supposed to be doing. The metal doors, yes, the metal doors. WAIT! METAL DOORS?!

She really blinked her eyes, staring at the metal doors in complete silence, shocked at the challenge of these metal doors.

***

The silence.... was interrupted by a distressed whining that came from a very, very distressed Dragon-Child who was standing with her forehead pressed against the doors, her right fist weakly hitting the door. The complete image of a dejected dragon that has tried everything short of ripping them apart with her immense strength.

Akhira knew they transported people between floors but... she hadn't paid attention at all to how to work these things. And she had only spent sparse amounts of time in places as crowded as this. Besides, BlackFire had done everything that involved being in contact with humans.

THIS IS FRUSTRATING. She did not feel hatred for the doors, no, she was not even angry.... just very frustrated. Plus, it was very humiliating. A dragon trumped by a couple of metal doors.... Very humiliating indeed.

But perhaps, she could find her way back to the place of healers?

Luckily, that She was still capable of. Using her nose, and her memory of having run through here with Kenner, she made good time on her way back to the place of Healers. Now then...

She saw the Insect from before. Nadiya. Letting out a breath of pent up frustration, Akhira walked up from behind her, and remembering what Kenner had said about the caring being real... poked the Human to get her attention and, "You are Nadiya, correct?"

"I wanted to apologize for my ghastly behavior, earlier. I hope you can forgive me, I am a dragon after all."

Maybe she was laying it on a bit thick.

Alexander & Selakir
Stern gave a lite smirk at the little elf, as she could easily see that her movements and reactions were eliciting a response from him in turn. Stern laughed slightly as the lift came to a somewhat abrupt halt as he looked back towards Alexander. "You will have your own quarters, though in some cases we have been reduced to letting several members sleep in the same space. Mostly for special reasons.. they don't like being alone, or its a small group who were a family before coming here. I'm sure you could understand." Stern responded as he lead the two out and into a large hallway. The two attendants bowing a farewell as they left.

The three of them entered into a much differed world from the pier before. There was almost no activity on this floor of the house save for several guards that stood their post and acknowledged the arrival of the group. Stern lightly touched Selakir's shoulder to coax her forward and he then waved for Alexander to follow, filling them both in as they walked. "This section of the house is usually off limits to a large majority of the other house members. The only exception would be if I or one of the other such house members is accompanying either of you here."

After walking for a short distance do the three of them stop at a small set of double doors.
"This late in the afternoon, the master is usually taking final council for the day." Stern knocks three times using the heavy ring of the door and it only takes a small moment for an answer to sound from the other side. "Enter" Stern waste no time in pushing the door open and going in with Alexander and Selakir in tow.

The three entered into a wide room with opulent lighting, several attendants standing at the edge of a large table and Kenner himself signing several documents. When he was done writing one attendant would pick up the page and another would be laid down in front of him by one of the other attendants. Who would describe several finer points of the paper in their own words before he would begin to sign. Each attendant was dressed in some sort of finery that neither Selakir, nor Alexander had seen recently and each bore a blue ribbon on their right arm. Each holding a small stack of papers and lightly discussing what was most obviously political issues between one another.

Upon looking up and seeing the three enter, Kenner waved the small group of attendants away. Who replied with an astute bow and removed themselves from the room as he took to his feet.
Stern slowly let the two of them take the forefront ahead of him as they approached Kenner. Who smiled at the two of them and gave a slight nod. "Its good to see that our late arrivals have finally arrived, any longer and I might have come out there to get you myself." He opened with a coy bend to his lips. "But I am happy to finally see that you've both joined us."

The man's amusement terrified her. Why? What amused him so much about her? Selakir was incredibly confused and scared. She was glad that his attention was on the other man for the moment. She listened as he explained the man would have a room to himself. She wondered where she would end up. She wasn't like the man. She had heard him talk of a ball, music and neither of those were things she was adapt at.

Alexander followed Stern, avoiding the elf as they exited the lift. He was pleased to learn he would have his own space. "Of course, that makes sense to me. I just prefer space to work. I don't need a lot but I appreciate knowing I will have such space."

When Stern touched her shoulder Selakir jumped as if she had been burned. The touch was light, barely there but it didn't matter. Her fear was so heightened that it would take very little to startle her. She did make note that this place was off limits. Limits were things she understood and she did not like breaking rules as she feared the punishment. She was not yet sure how that would look here so Selakir vowed to be extra cautious.

They stopped at a set of double doors. As stern knocked Alexander realized he should have asked if he was presentable. It wasn't something he necessarily cared about but he had been scolded that a man should always be presentable. What that mean to others compared to himself varied but Alexander tried. He smoothed down his hair as best he could. His eyes fell on the dirty elven woman. Despite how Stern had tried to clean her, she still carried a layer of dirty, a musty smell and clothes that were falling apart. If she could be presented like that than he wasn't too worried about himself.

They entered the lush, beautifully decorated room. They approached a man who was addressing some finely dressed people. Stern stepped behind them. Alexander stepped forward. He bowed at the waist. "Greetings sir. I am grateful for you patronage and I promise you my best work."

He straightened and looked to the man who had bought him, his talent. He didn't think of it as slavery. He thought of it as a patron who gave him the ability to do what Alexander was born to do, create music.

As the man stood Selakir knelt, head bowed and eyes on the floor. "Master."

She prayed this man was her master and would give her a place, a purpose and the structure she longed for. She didn't know what to do without someone telling her, controlling her. It was all she knew.

Alexander & Selakir

Kenner looked at Alexander and nodded in response to his approach. "And I am grateful to have someone so talented in my halls. You will find no shortage of opportunities here for growing your skills." He tossed several sheets of parchment back onto the table before approaching, stepping out from behind it. The two of them could see that he was completely dressed in very simple, loose fitting clothes. Even going so far as to not be wearing shoes as well, just to complete some sort of relaxed appearance.

He walked up to Selakir, stopping before he would have to crane his neck down to see her and locked eyes with the young elf. "Hello Selakir, ha's man na finallui govannon-cin" He spoke in a rather sweet tone and it was obvious that he was doing his best to put her at ease, as he could see that she was nearly spilling over in tension.
He reached out and took her arm lightly, before turning his attention to Stern. "How about finding a fresh change of clothes for our new member of the family.." He adjectively ordered. To which Stern gave an astute click of his heels and strode out of the room, right out the way he came in.

Kenner looked over Selakir lightly and spoke on as he slowly pulled her into an embrace, as if to attempt to quell her nervous shaking. "The two of you will find a home here, so long as you wish it." Selakir could feel a warmth pressed against her flesh. Like hugging a warmly lit lamp in the cold, bitter night of a long winter.

"I have no doubt that the two of you have ample questions, so go ahead and ask what you wish." He offered as he released Selakir from their short embrace.

Alexander found himself a bit disgusted as the man, Kenner who was now his patron helped the elf from the floor and put his arms around her. How he could stand to touch her was beyond his understanding. She didn't need clothes she needed a bath and then clean clothes.

He gave the elf no more thought as Kenner asked if they had questions. "I don't know that I have questions...I am to understand there are areas of the house we are not permitted but that is fine to me as I tend to focus on my work. I promise that I will spend a great deal of time on my music. There is so much here that speaks to me, begs to have its song written down..."

His voice trailed off as he looked lost for a moment. His eyes glazed and his head moved as if he were listening to some distant song.

Selakir stood immediately at Kenner's direction. She would do whatever her master desired. She did not look him in the eyes, did not raise her head. She was unaware as of yet what his rules were and so she aired on the side of caution and respect. The embrace was both comforting and alarming. She had not been expecting it and yet, he was her master and he could do as he wished with her.

When he released her and asked if they had questions Selakir knelt once more. "Master, all I ask is that you tell me what you desire of me and I will do all I can to fulfill them. I am good, I promise master. I will listen well. I ask for nothing in return but to serve you."

She hoped her proclamation would please him. She was in a new place and had only had one master before but once she learned the rules here Selakir was sure she would show him that she was a good slave.

Alexander looked at the kneeling woman. Her words pulled him from the music in his head. A lip curled in disgust as he realized that while he was there for art, for music she was there for likely much, much baser things. They were not things that appealed to Alexander. Nothing could compare to music, to composing and the idea of human connection on that level was unfathomable to him.

Alexander & Selakir

Kenner releases Selakir and turns to Alexander "Well we tend to allow for normal activities during the day and even on a first day basis. One should be allowed some time to acclimate to their new surroundings." Leaning back on the table, Kenner addresses the two of the. "The two of you will be given your own quarters and even any personal belongings that you possess will be stored accordingly as well. Even any items that you gain from this day forward will still be yours to keep. My house is not one to stifle the growth on a individual.. personal or otherwise."

The doors at the front of the room slowly swing open, with barely any noise to notify the group. It was Stern once again, leading a small cadre of maids dressed in the typical white & black attire. Though that did little to help not differentiate the three of them. One possessed a tale nearly turquoise in color, with small scales that caused it to shimmer. Which she obviously tried to hide by curling around the upper portion of her right leg. Carrying several folded towels in her crossed arms.
The second was carrying a very large basin in her arms, that would normally be an issue for anyone. However she possessed a physique that suggested she were more accustomed to physical labor, easily standing at least a foot over everyone in the room

The third was a very lithe woman with appeared to be the most normal of the three. She pushed a small cart in front of her with two large bowls, a small set of what seem to be grooming tools and some folded clothes on the bottom shelf. However when she passed in between the two, they could see that this maid walked on cloven hooves. Around the top of which were sheds of vibrant red fur, that bobbed and flowed as she stepped.

Selakir remained kneeling in her spot on the floor. She had sunk back to her knees and stated her desire to serve him but her master turned his attention to other things.

She feared it was not enough and she lowered her head to put her forehead to the floor. She heard him speak of personal belongings and a room but neither really mattered to her. She had nothing of her own. Anything she was given belonged to her master and she had come with nothing but the bit of ragged cloth that covered her body. She had no way of procuring things and she desired nothing for herself. Selakir lived only to serve him, her new master.

Alexander was pleased to hear that he would have his own space, his things. This was as he had hoped. His patron was generous and understanding. Alexander vowed to give Kenner his soul in his music in thanks for this chance.

He glanced briefly at the elf who had knelt back on the floor. He frowned and again, his lip curled in disgust at the sight of her. She was the opposite of him. He wished to create, to give life to music and that woman wanted to be little more than a pet.

When the door opened Alexander turned and watched Stern and the three women who entered with curiousity. He ignored Stern for a moment as he really took in the women. They were each so different. The tail of the one drew his attention but it was the third with the hooves that captivated him the most. He imagined a song for her, a song of depth and perhaps a tinge of menace.

He realized they were there to clean and clothe the elf. He cleared his throat. "May I leave as that occurs? I have no wish to violate her privacy and no desire to see her...unclothed." Alexander's unease with the elf and perhaps nudity was clear in his voice. "Captain Stern mentioned food. I was fed but not a great deal on the journey and would welcome something small if possible."

Selakir didn't lift her head but she did listen to the footsteps, to the man's voice. She was observant even as she left herself at her master's mercy. She knew that it was the little details that would help her earn her master's praise.

She longed for food but said nothing. The man stated he had been fed and she wanted to say she had not been given much that was edible but she remained silent. Her master had not given her leave to speak again. He hadn't really noticed her and that cause a pang of fear and sadness to move through her body.

Alexander & Selakir

Kenner waves his hand at Alexander "Understandable, you can follow Stern down the hall to the dining area on this floor. I'm sure Purna would be more then willing to accommodate just one more. Besides, most of the workers are finishing a late lunch at this time. So you may have a chance to mingle with a few of them." He turns his attention to Stern, who was currently leering over Selakir's should. With a look that implied he would be wringing his hands over some nefarious plan. "Stern" Kenner said flatly, with barely any response to the mans attentions.

"Captain.." Kenner speaks once again, now with base in his voice and Stern's head snaps to attention. Unspeaking and waiting for his directions.

"Take Mr. Alexander to the dining hall, I will remain with our new friend and help to orientate her into the household. Also, pass word to your lady that her new student has finally arrived and if she wishes. Then she shall know where to find him." In response to his orders, Stern clicks his heels and quickly waves Alexander to follow him. He pushed through the door with a slight groan of displeasure in his throat, giving rise to the idea that his own enjoyment of the situation had been interrupted.

As the two of them moved down the hall Alexander could see that even though Stern was upset with the interruption of his fun with the situation. The moment only registered as little more then an annoyance for him, even though he kept walking with Alexander in tow.

He turned off to the left as he pushed another set of doors open into a well lit dining hall. With three long tables that could be seen stretching on for quite a distance. Though the room was large, it was sparsely populated at the moment. Only a few of the house members were still eating, or at least conversing between one another in the greater scheme of things. Some o which noticed their entrance and waved at the two, as the door closed behind them.

As Stern pointed at a seat and slid it out for Alexander he reached in over his shoulder and spoke. "Alright, this will be a sort of crash course in how things work here... and forgive me. But I would rather be there with the little miss, yet I have duties to attend to. So I must be quick.." He ends up sitting across the table from Alexander and motions towards an open window in the side of the room. Which Alexander can see gains the attention of a what looks to be another maid, though her outfit was more in line with that of a waitress. Her facial features were still hidden, though her hair was uncovered like most others. The fact that her amber locks reached almost to the small of her back may have been a reason for this. As well that her bangs flowed out below her cap and sat firmly in front of her shoulders.

Stern reached out as she came closer and pulled her down into his lap, with a surprised gasp from the woman in turn. "Firstly.. see this" He wraps one arm around her waist and uses the other to raise her right arm. Showing Alexander that she wore a green ribbon that was wrapped firmly around her upper arm. "This ribbon, when you are given your own. Will be a symbol of the house that you will wear, possibly for the rest of your life. Or until the master deems it necessary that you should be released from this charge. The color represents... the focus of your training." He quickly lets the girl up and motions for her to get some food from the kitchen, with a few quick thumps from his armored hand on the table. Sending her off with a wink.

"You need to know a few things about these ribbons, they are there for your protection primarily.. not as an identifier. Just as I know you noticed the three that came in with me earlier, not to mention the ones attending to the master as well. That not all of them are exactly human, though that is also what the color of the ribbon is for as well." He motions to Alexander's arm as he speaks. "You will most definitely be given an orange ribbon, because that is the color of those that create.. the artist of the house. Though this could be anything from sculptures, painting, music and even writing." He looks over his shoulder at four house members sitting at the far end of the table and lightly points.

There were two blue, an orange and one pink ribbon member there. Two men and two women respectfully.
"These are the most common colors you are going to see this high up in the house and even farther down to the ground floor. However if you should see a red ribbon above the ground level, I advise you to keep your wits and be ready for anything. Aside from that you must also be told that ribbons of black are to be watched carefully and given the utmost amounts of respect within the house. If they are walking around free, then that means they have earned the right to move about the house with impunity."

He leans forward with his arms on the table and motions back, towards Alexander. "You do know what kind of things are done here in Raven home?"
----
Kenner let a laugh slip from under his breath as the door finally closed and each of the maids started to move up closer to Selakir. He put a hand on the elf's shoulder as he lightly lifted her chin to look lock their eyes and he greeted her stare with a smile. "I must apologies for the captain.. all of these years he grows to be more and more like his mistress. Faults and perks all the same I suppose..." He motioned behind her to turn her around and she could see that one of the maids had pulled a chair up and was motioning for her to sit. "They are here to help get you cleaned up and then have you change into some fresh clothes." He lifts his hands and cups the sides of her face, running his hands back and through her hair. Finally pulling them out on the sides as the length of her hair strains through his fingers.

"I am going to let you know now, but your world is going to change and it is going to change fast. But it will be for the better I assure you." He backs away two steps as the tailed maid steps to her side and offers a hand. Kenner nods to Selakir when he sees her eye's dart between the two. "I will be in the next room and if you need me, just call. Alright?"

Babble
As he rolled up against the doors edge he could hear the young girl giggle at his antics. The sound of their foot falls could be heard as they followed up behind him. "Why do they always act like a fish out of water when this happens."

Misha leans downs over his face and looks down at him for a moment and smiled. "Don't feel bad. The last time this happened, poor girl laid on the floor for nearly three days."
She ran a hand over his head and gave it a slight pat before the two of them reached down to start and lift him up to his feet. "Its going to take some time for you to get used to this body. Strange isn't it?. seeing as you have been inhabiting it for a long time and only now are having to actually rely on it." Though he could not see the face behind the mask. He could already get the feeling that a smirk was being shined on him at that moment. Though it wasn't a look of disapproval like he had received in the past and more along a jest of his current position.

The two had easily managed to sit him up against the door. Mish left for only a moment to retrieve a glass of water from the other side of the room. Lifting it to his lips for him to drink as she returned. "You may actually need a drink now, seeing as you really have never needed to really speak before.

"After this, I think its time we get to work on those hands of yours."

---

Selakir
Kenner looked down at the elf and smiled as she nodded. He could see the tentative look in her eyes and how she was acting. Know full well the kinds of thoughts that were dancing behind her eyes. "Then I leave you in their hands for now. If you need anything, I will be through that door." He pointed to her side, towards the door that the others from before had used to leave and he soon made his own exit as well.

As she looked at him leave, a hand lightly touched hers from the left and got her attention. The maid with the cloven hooves was standing there with a somewhat anxious stance and spoke with a lax voice as she reached up around Selakir's neck. Taking hold of the clasp that held her dress at the top. "We are going to be quick, so there is no need to fret." She could see the veil, drawn tight across the face of the maid. Crease and widen as a friendly smile drew up underneath. Though that could do little to dissuade the slight smell of brimstone that brushed up against her nose.

When her dress began to fall away. What little there was left to help hold it together, could barely take the fall to the floor. Only for the larger maid to give out a slight sigh as she retrieved it. This was the last thing that Selakir had from before and even though it may have been a find piece of clothing in the past. Now it was reduced to little more then a stained rag to be discarded.

"Do you wish to keep this?" The maid asked. In what was a rather surprising voice for one who bore such a frame. "I am sure one of our tailors could do something to give it new life."

---

Alexander
Stern threw a grin back at Alexander when he said just how little he knew about the functions of the house.
"Well as you can see. Our home deals in the selling and purchasing of... talent. More or less." He finished as the maid returned with three trays of food situated in her hands and laid them in between the two. It was several different foods that he could see. Meats and vegetables prepared for eating, though he could only recognize a few of the items as well.

The distinct smell of pork was wafting up though that was the only one he could pick out from the whole tray. A plate and utensils were provided as well lastly and the maid bowed for the two of them. Before she returned to the duties she was performing before hand. Stern motioned towards three glazed, reddened, orbs on the last tray and laughed. "I suggest you stay clear on those. Most people cannot handle the heat and the heavy flavor isn't too flattering in the least.

As Stern removed the gauntlets of his uniform. Alexander who see that his hands were very well taken care of. Though the care had been so great, that it was easy to confuse them for the hands of a woman. Slender fingers with smooth skin and well groomed, pointed nails.
He reached out and grabbed two slices of meat and dropped them on his plate, continuing to take other items.
[color=maroon]"There are those that are talented like yourself and they are trained to help not only themselves, but to also increase the standing of the house. A small trade and a positively good one for someone in your position I might add."

He took a few small bites as he spoke, enough to keep his voice clear in the least. "There are however those that are just to be kept as toys.. Happy, well cared for toys, but toys nonetheless."

Babble
As his eyes with how weak his body had become. It was apparent that Babble was having a hard time staying awake, even if it was a choice at this point. He could see Chlorra's lithe form leaning over him as several of the nurses, if one could call them that. Came over from one of the other beds to help situate him into a comfortable position.

Chlorra ran a hand over his head, pushing back several stray strands of hair as he could see back into the eyes of her mask. Two small white dots of light were peering back at him, strangely enough. Both of them were coming from the left eye alone. "You have no idea little man... But here, you should have more then enough of a chance to get better. Especially with them looking after you. So I suggest you attempt to make the best of things." Two of the nurses, women dressed in outfits reminiscent of the maids. Save for the fact that their color was more white, with sterile garments that covered almost their entire arms. The began taking account of him as his eyes continued fighting to stay open.

His last vision of them was a linen sheet being pulled up over his lower half and the other working to help work the pillow under his head to better support it. Only for his vision to finally blur out and become dark.

---

Alexander & Akhira
Purna kept ahead of Alexander, but only slightly. She talked with him as they both walked down the long corridor that even Alexander could see was expansive and when they managed to turn one corner, only to keep walking down what looked to be the same hall. It became more of a guess for him as they walked. Almost as if she could see this on his face she began to speak about where they were going. "I believe that you will enjoy the auditorium. There is plenty of space to practice and even personal rooms that allow for more secluded work with your own thoughts. Though if you want to use them, or even have your quarters moved their for a more permanent stay, you may have to ask the master." She began to motion for him to see as she was pointing out small details to him when they turned the second corner. "If you ever get lost you can get your bearings by looking at the walls." As his eyes followed her directions, Alexander could see that the molding lines on the hallway had notches worked into the frame work and that the hall before their turn had one less.

The houses floors worked on a grid like system. Counting up one direction and down the other, while the left side of the hall possessed a mark indicating primitive letters. Two in fact, one most likely standing for what floor of the house they were on. "I got lost one time when I was new and they found me after half a day, having locked myself in a stock room." She giggled as they continued to walk, only for a group of guards to come running by. Not even attempting to pardon themselves and almost pushing her back into Alexander. "Well, looks like the shinys are up in arms about something. Though its not usual for such a thing as this to happen up here." She looks from across both sides as they continue down the hall and looks over her shoulder at Alexander as she struts along. "Last hall and you are going to be in the auditorium. Its the one of the only rooms in the house to reach out into the surrounding countryside and on clear days the fresh air does the students good. Really gets the creative juices flowing." She says with a smile as Alexander can see it play across her face. It was obvious that she really enjoyed being the talkative one in this equation.

This realization came upon Alexander at the moment he turned a corner to follow Purna around the last corner. Only to see her eyes still fixed on him and not situated ahead. Before the raven haired woman he could see a younger looking girl of almost equal height to Purna's. Her eyes were fixed ahead and it seemed that she was not one to call out the fact that someone was going to walk directly into her. The light of the wall lanterns playing across her dark hair, streaking with the pale strands as she stood there almost a gasp for words. His eyes met Purna's in what looked like a warming, but before the two collided. Purna's shoes dug into the carpet to stop her advance and she fell back once again. Coming dreadfully close to falling on her back, where it not for both Alexander holding out his arm and Purna herself reaching out for the others left shoulder.

What shot from Purna's lips as she reacted, was a mix of what could only be described as a curse of sorts. Though, despite the language barrier it was obviously something a lady shouldn't be saying in polite company.

---

Selakir
The maid at Selakir's side gave her a soft hug before pushing the door open and taking her down a short hall. The sound of laughter could be heard from the other end as the two of them grew closer. It was obvious that something was going on in the other room and with the mix of voices, it was sure to be a good group of individuals who were enjoying themselves. The maid held her hand the whole way. With one other laid across Selakir's shoulder as they walked. As if she were trying her best to comfort her the whole way.

As soon as they reached the door however, she woman stopped Selakir and looked her over again. She was doing her best to ensure that the young elf would feel as beautiful for her new master as she could. Her work began to slow as she looked back at Selakir and even though the veil covered most of her face, save for the hole. The feeling of the maids eyes on Selakir was an ever present aspect of this interaction and she stopped. Her arms dropped, before one was brought up to grip at the edge of her veil and she tugged it away. In this instance Selakir could see that the veil served a more broad purpose as it was removed and the full regalia of the maid before her was reveled.

The woman before her was half blooded and it was obvious the combining of these two lines was not kind to her. The sides of her lips cut into black edges and when a breath of releaif was breathed by the maid. It was revealed that her mouth was full of crudely mismatched teeth, even though they fit well enough. The veil seemed to physically shift her anatomy as it was placed on and likewise removed. She possessed several smaller horns that birthed a crown like growth on her head and even though her flesh was extremely pale, especially compared to her rosy lips. The most obvious problem with her form was her eyes and the space around them. Both were an almost septic color of yellow, with long, dark red slits for pupils. This compounded with virulent patches of skin traversing her eyes, from her forehead almost to her top lip. Made the maid look almost like a demented harlequin.

"It's my choice to wear the veil, as it is for all of us."
Selakir could feel a distinct heat coming off the girls breath and her nose was hit with the fait smell of brimstone to top it all off. She looked ashamed for some reason as the young girl stared back into her eyes. As if a formal taboo had been broken and she was waiting to be punished. "You have nothing to worry about.. its obvious how beautiful you are and how much he will love you.. that isn't to say he doesn't love any of us." Here expression changes as if to push that thought. She reaches out to take the young elf's hand and even those are starting to burn with a notable heat. "He loves us all and I am certain that you will come to see that as well." The girl smiles with a hopeful stare, almost starry-eyed if one had to guess and then hugged Selakir one last time. It was now painfully obvious that the veils were basically meant to help each of them feel like they could fit in. Not simply just to hide their mundane, or extravagant features.

She quickly replaces the veil. A strange thing to witness in both directions, as the placing of the article of clothing appeared to deform reality. Her horns and face seemed to shift in order to fit the veil, instead of the other way around. Though the act did not seem uncomfortable, it was a strange thing to witness none the less.

She pushed the door and lightly bowed, the last few steps to take were Selakir's alone and she moved into room. Several of the voices enjoying the revelry quieted as she pressed in. As the door closed behind her, she could see her new master sitting at the edge of a small table with other figures around. Most where the blue ribbon wearing individuals from before, though three new ones wearing mask had joined him as well.

Strangely enough as they parted, she could see two others. A person in strange garb seated almost directly in front of him and another maid, sitting firmly on his lap. Though this one was dressed somewhat differently sporting a pink ribbon on her arm, two large blonde braids and the veil pulled halfway up her face. The veil was easy to explain, as he was slowly feeding her small treats from one of several trays situated on the table nearby. To which she made slight jostling motions and squealed in a muffled delight.

Kenner motioned for Selakir to approach and spoke up. "Good, you've arrived. I have two people I want you to meet." He makes several motions and the standing figures begin to disperse. Several of them giving Selakir a slight bow as they pass her and head out the way she came. The others using another door that apparently reaches back into the main hall.

Kenner point out towards the figure siting ahead of him, while the maid stood and gave her an astute bow. "This is Alia and her friend Peach. I was hoping to have you meet them later, but they decided to give a small visit and I could not let the chance be wasted." Selakir could see that the maid was as formal as Kenner himself. She had already placed the veil back into place, despite still chewing on what Selaki glanced to be a chocolate glazed strawberry. She was of a somewhat heavier build then Selakir, though seeing as she hasn't been eating well for the past few weeks. This was understandable.

The other one, Alia. On the other hand was something of an oddity, even when compared to a house full of masked maids and suited individuals. She was incredibly thin and her form was wrapped in what looked to be fine linen. However her hands, chest and lower waste were covered in thick, silken vestments. Her head was covered entirely with what looked to be a leather cowl that was made to fit in a shapely manner. While the back was tied just enough to allow her abundant brunet hair pour from the back. The front had a small metallic grill where the mouth should be and the eyes were two silver rimmed shaded goggles. With how well the room was lit Selakir could see that she had pale hazel eyes, that followed her as she moved.

Peach was more energetic then the two, walking around Selakir and observing her. Taking in as much of the young elf's form as possible. Though she did now speak. Aside from the bow as a greeting, no other word came from the other maid and then it was another voice that broke the silence. "Friend, underling, companion.. caretaker.. It's rather trivial when you try to actually put a title to whatever task Peach performs. The voice was heavily feminine, yet raspy. Yet as Alia's voice came through that metallic grill in her mask. It added a soft, nearly musical chime to her voice.

The hug made Selakir tense. It was friendly, intimate. Maid's were allowed to be in personal space but it seemed comforting and it both confused her and made her uncomfortable. It was not a gesture she was used to from those not her master. A brief thought flickered. I do not think I have ever had such a thing, even from my master....

Comfort had not been his specialty and it made Selakir wonder about her new master and what he would be like.

The way the maid walked with her, kept contact with her filled Selakir with dread. Perhaps her new master was cruel and this woman, the maid was trying to offer a last show of compassion before she was released the elf to a life of cruelty. Selakir could feel her heart pounding against her ribs. She was no longer hungry. She felt much like a trapped animal. She knew that she could be the slave he wanted, no matter if he were cruel or kind but the anticipation was increasing her fear. It was all new and that scared her.

As they paused at the door Selakir drew her eyes from the portal to the maid. There was no shock or apprehension about the woman's appearance. Her face was practically unreadable. She nodded as the woman spoke of her veil. She nodded again as the woman mentioned that she need not worry. A sense of unease washed over Selakir as the woman lowered her veil and opened the door.

Selakir stepped into the room and remained very still as the door closed behind her. As she didn't know the protocol yet Selakir opted to lower her eyes to the floor. It felt the most respectful thing to do. In time she would learn her master's preference but for now she would opt for simple respect.

Through her lashes she saw the gesture for her to approach. Selakir stepped closer, her hands at her sides and eyes still lowered.

She bowed her head in greeting to each though she did not look any in the eyes. She assumed that they were the master's guest and as his slave they were far above her.

Selakir turned slightly to Alia and Peach, her head dipping in greeting. She remained very still as she was inspected by the woman, Peach.

The voice startled her but Selakir did her best not to react. She nodded to Alia as if understanding. Peach belonged to Alia. Selakir understood such relationships. It was what she was raised for.

She did not speak, her master had not given her leave to and in that moment she was unsure if Alia even expected a response. Selakir continued to keep her eyes lowered.

Then, as if to cause trouble her stomach made a soft rumble sound. Selakir had picked up the scent of the strawberries and though she ignored it, her stomach did not. She prayed no one noticed, that the sound was too quiet for any but herself to hear.

Selakir
Master Kenner laughed lightly at the slight unrest in Selakir, merely arising as a soft chuckle. He was rather aware at what was the issue and beckoned the young elf forward. Sliding a small plate of items toward her side of the table. Even lifting a pitcher and pouring a small glass of water, setting it beside the plate.

White fruit mostly occupied the entirety of the plate, some greens could also be seen as well. Though the larger plates in the middle of the table also had meats and even sugared items to speak of. Peach in the meantime began ushering Selakir closer to the table, helping her along as well as she could. It was obvious that the servants of the house were far more forthcoming in most things. Either being more outspoken than she had seen other servants were allowed, or even possessing a degree of autonomy. As they continued to move about on their own in most day to day activities.

Kenner stood, waling up to her as she approached. He greeted her with a smile as if he hadn't just left her company a few minutes ago. "A little cleanliness can go a long way, as you can see." He held out a hand and offered her his seat, waiting to see if she would accept.

The last of the other house members left through the only other door in the room, which lead out into the main hall. Alia spoke up as Peach rounded Selakir's shoulder. "Come now peach. I know its been a while since another elf has been here, but you could give her a moment to get used to her new surroundings." Peach stops her near bouncing at the suggestion of this and for a moment, Selakir could see that the maid was actually pouting from behind her veil. Causing a laugh from both Alia and Kenner, plus the grin that shot across his face.

---

Alexander & Akhira
Purna began to straighten herself back to normal as the reaction caused her to nearly fall. She had been caught off guard when it wasn't obvious that someone wasn't standing in her path and as she brought her eyes back up. She accepted Alexander's help, eagerly. Straightening her dress after she finished standing back up.

Still muttering several words under her breath, Purna turned towards Alexander. "I'm fine, just a little shaken is all." She finished by sliding her bangs back and facing Akhira. "Apologies for all of that, my attention was elsewhere at the time." She offered in response to Akhira.

They stood there for a moment, small words hanging in the air as Alexander's and Akhira's minds had time to mull over what happened. Purna worked to make sure nothing was out of place with her outfit and that nothing had been disrupted around them. A passing guard was able to ask what had just caused the noise that drew him to their direction and Purna easily waved him off. An action that the guard was apparently fine with her doing, despite being a slave of the house. She possessed the amount of authority that allowed her to just dismiss a guard on cue. Though it was obvious that she meant no harm with said dismissal and the guard displayed no ill will.

She looked Akhira over as she sidled back next to Alexander. "Well I have no problem with someone else tagging along. Though if you want, the rooms are on floor three. The only people who even remotely live up here are the instructors." She adds as she starts to move on down the hall, beckoning the two of them to follow as she does so. "The more the merrier I suppose, its always good to see new faces. Though I suggest you stay close and on your best behavior. tugging Alexander on the sleeve as she walked by.

---

Babble

As Babble continued to walk on unsteady legs, more and more eyes became aware of him. Though those that looked quickly returned to what they were doing in turn. It appeared that whatever they were up to was more necessary then having to chase down one person, who was more likely to fall over, then break into a sprint and run for the door.

Babble's eyes traced the lines in the carpet as he began to make headway towards the other end of the corridor and his advance only stopped when his head made contact with something. Forcing his vision ended with what appeared to be two feet meeting his and as his head craned to look up. In front of him was something other then any nurse he had seen before. Though the garments were equal enough, the darker coloration and the size of this person made it obvious that she was meant more for other hardier task. Beside her was a much smaller figure, that of a young girl and she was there with a dead set stare at Babble. Pointing at him all the while before the larger nurse acted. Babble only had enough time to slightly lower his head before the nurse's arms began to lift him up and began cradling him over back to his bead. Where several other nurses had apparently been waiting.

To his ears muffled voices began pattering back and forth. The young girl was instructing them in what it was they were going to do. His forearms were wrapped in clean gauss, while they began to clean him as though he were a toddler. What little protest he could muster was either dealt with by the larger nurse, or just ignored for finishing their task. Only for the process to take less than a few minutes.

The young girl all the while was rubbing what seemed to be a salve across several of the old wounds that Babble had. Berating him slightly as she worked. "To think that you just decided to get up and wander around.. why do that?.. You should stay in bed and get well, or at least get some strength back in yourself.." She worked as the talking continued. The other nurses working to get a fresh set of clothes onto Babble's body.

The larger nurse stopped holding him down at this point, reserving to stay hanging over the young girl's shoulder.

Shame washed over her as her master laughed. She had amused him rather than angered him but still she wished she knew what he wanted of her. The unknown of him, of this place was frightening her.

He called her forward and Selakir moved obediently. She took the plate and the water. Selakir did not understand why he, her master was pouring water for her but she was did not wish to upset him. The food looked wonderful, far better than she had had in days but she didn't eat, didn't touch anything else. He had not given her leave to do so. The one woman, Peach moved her along as if she were a child. Selakir let her. Perhaps there was a hierarchy to the servants that she had not figured out yet.

Selakir once more stood before Master Kenner. He complimented her, offered his seat and Selakir stood there staring at him. Selakir took Master Kenner's hand and gently sat on the edge of the seat. Her back was straight. Her heart raced. Peach seemed excited but Selakire could not find the same excitement. Her eyes lifted briefly to Kenner though she said nothing. Waiting she looked at him. She would not move, would not eat or drink until he gave her leave to. It did not matter how hungry one was. She had learned the hard way when she was young to wait until allowed to eat.

Nearby Peach and other servants moved about. Selakir's eyes were not demurely on her lap. She could not get a sense of him, Kenner. He did not seem cruel or hard yet he was not overly jovial and flamboyant. Relaxed with an air of authority. It all made him hard to read.

What did he expect of her? That was the biggest question on her mind.

Akhira & Alexander

Purna pulled the young man along, giving him a wry smile at the way he was acting. "Come now, its just a few more doors and you're there." She pointed to show that the end of the hall was dominated by a large double door. With a heavily articulated frame and what appeared to be a large plaque over the door. Bearing a heavily stylized musical not made out of polished silver, it's surface catching the surrounding light brilliantly.

The familiar sound of instruments being tuned began to tickle at the edge of Alexander's ear as if to break the silence even more.

While a door they passed signaled to Akhira's own senses, the taste of what seemed to be inks and graphite in the air. This was most likely the usual stomping ground for Purna and others of her typical persuasion. Several voices even calling out her name and waved in return as she lead the two by. The relative quiet that this level of the household usually exhibited was beginning to vanish as others began to consort. The guards having returned to their post for the time being, only those that stood at certain corners for the halls in intersections remained. The only one to actually be in sight was calmly adjusting his bracers as the three walked by, nodding a welcome to the three of them as they passed. His polished arms and armor looking more like a parade uniform when it was presented so cleanly.

Before reaching the door she stopped the two of them in their tracks and began to look over Alexander. It was almost as if she was dressing him over with her eyes and began to straighten the hem of his collar. "Don't worry, just making sure everything is good for you to meet with everyone, first impressions and all... " She gave a sidled wink to Akhira as she moved around from one shoulder to his other. "There are only a few adults that I suspect you will be placed with. The younger classes are mostly all that we have right now, without enough bodies to fill the usual space at least."

She gives Akhira a glance as she rolls around to her and starts to pull the young dragons hair back slightly, being gentle as she did so. "The teachers are somewhat particular about anyone new they meet and to be honest, they can be a bit harsh. Also, don't let their appearance fool you, as the bother is far more agreeable than the sister." She adds with a slightly serious tone.

Selakir

Kenner laid his hand on Selakir's shoulder as she sat there, obviously not sure of how things were to progress. "It's okay if you want to eat, by all means go ahead and do so. You're obviously hungry and I wouldn't be so cruel as to keep you from a meal." He leaned up and looked at peach, who was now across the table and was sneaking yet another strawberry into a pocket as she slipped under her upturned veil, into her waiting mouth. Freezing slightly when she realized the master was staring straight at her. Giving a slight giggle and a an even more slightly crooked smile. This time revealing that she had what appeared to be a beauty mark on the left side of her face, just below the edge of her lip. The veil was pulled down and she straightened her posture to a more attentive stance, all the while chewing away under the thin cloth.

"Go and get a room prepared for her in the commons." The maid looked back at Alia and then back to Kenner, moving her hands in several quick motions, prostrating her body language between the two of them. Ending it what one would consider her pleading about something. Kenner gave a small sigh in response to the maids frantic signing "No you cannot share your room with her, but considering the situation I don't think she would mind having her room next to yours." He adds as he looks down at Selakir.

"Would that be okay with you Selakir?" He asked her. His hand still lightly placed on her shoulder.

A hand laid on her shoulder. Selakir sat very still. Her master gave his permission to eat though his phrasing was strange. It was not cruel to keep a slave from a meal. It was about the master's desires.

"Thank you master." Her voice was soft. She gave a slight bow of her head to him in thanks to accompany her words before delicate picking at her food.

It was incredibly tasty but her body was so empty that even the small bites felt heavy. Selakir was slow to eat, pausing often to allow her body to adjust once more to the solid and nutritious food. It was different than she was used to. Her previous master was very much a lover of fatty, roasted meats and heavy drink. The juicy pieces of fruit were so perfect that Selakir closed her eyes to focus on just the feeling of the sweet juice dancing over her tongue as she chewed and swallowed.

She opened her eyes once more as her master spoke of a room for her. She watched the woman, Peach as she began to gesture emotionally. Selakir found herself realizing that perhaps the woman could not speak.

"Whatever master feels is best." The question of her opinion puzzled her. Why he was concerned with that confused Selakir. She did her best to make it clear that she in no way would be a troublesome slave. She had seen them, the new arrivals who would fight and push against master's desires. It never ended well and Selakir could not understand why they did that.

Babble

Philippe looked over Babble as he stared back at her. It wasn't entirely possibly that she could supply something for him to eat and when an idea hit her, she pulled a small pad, scribbling quickly. Babble could see that she was murmuring the words as she wrote them, letting the information flow as easily as one would breath.

She looked over the top of her notes and asked him as she continued to write. "We are going to try a few things, hopefully one of them will work for you. Several of them will be up in about an hour.." She quickly tears the page out and hands it off to the nurse across his bed, who barely glances at the page and trots off down the hall, while she returned to examining Babble.

She lifted his right arm and began to inspect where the bandaging began, asking him questions as she scanned across his forearm. "Can you still feel anything here, or..." Babble saw her eyes stop where his armed ended and even though bandaging had been applied, it was apparent that she was staring at something. She leaned over his body and examined his other arm in the exact same way. Her eyes focusing on the very end where his wound was and it was obvious that she was drawing a conclusion, even with how strange her face appeared to him.

Her touch was strange to him as well, like her fingers were damp and each point of contact reminded him of the days where pain was applied through magical means. Not the pain, not the sensation, but the contact itself was still there. Like a strange phantom that he was vaguely aware of as it traced over his flesh. She looked over one last time before placing his arm down and drew back up to stand. "Who took your hands Babble?" She asked bluntly.

---

Selakir

Kenner smiled over and nodded across the room in regards to Peach's anticipation. The maid practically bounced with happiness as she leapt from the room, hurrying down the hall towards her destination. Kenner and Alia both shared a softly toned chuckle between one another. He pulled another chair from the side of the table closer towards Selakir and took a seat beside her. "Another few days of this and maybe she will have all of this excitement out of her system." He added with a slight sigh.

"Not very likely..." Was what Alia responded with as Kenner fished a strawberry from the plate in front of Selakir and kept his eye cast towards her as she ate. He with the edge of the fruit sitting firmly in his teeth as he looked her over. He lifted up his other hand on the table and revealed an item that was in his grasp. It was a silken, pink ribbon. Twirling the two ends of it together with his fingers as he leaned against the edge of the table and looked onto Selakir, as she enjoyed her meal.

He looked on and as her eyes caught his out of the edge of her vision, she could see that he was content to just sit there and watch her do exactly as she was doing. Though the silence did not last long in general, Kenner decided to ask a rather straightforward question of her.

"Besides serving your master, what is it that makes you happy Selakir? He sat down the last of the strawberry in his hand and began to hold the ribbon more predominately in front of her. "Because this family can offer as such." Alia leans forward and adds "You can go far in this house, even at your age you are still young and very beautiful. You can go places and do things that not many of us really had a chance to ever do..." She went quiet for a moment after that. Her head fixed as she looked down onto her hand in silence. Aside from a dejected sigh, there was nothing else that could catch Selakir's hearing when it concerned this woman across from her.

Kenner reached across and placed his hand on hers, visually puller her back from whatever place her mind was currently in.

"Everyone has a place here Selakir, so long as you wish to take it."

Selakir paused in her eating to watch as the woman bounded from the room. She could not understand why the woman, Peach was so happy and excited but it was pleasant enough to witness. Her attention returned to her master. In his hand was now a pink ribbon.

His question confused her. Selakir stared at him a moment. "I do not understand. Was I not brought here to serve you? Do I displease you?"

Perhaps it was a test of her loyalty and devotion to him. She sat, hands in her lap now and bowed her head. "I wish for nothing but to serve my master. Nothing makes me happier and if my master is happy than I have all I could need. My place is as his servant."

Her voice was soft but firm. If this was a test she wanted to show that although this place and people were new and strange she would do what was expected of her. She would serve and cater to his every whim, every desire. It was who she was and what she was raised to do. Selakir knew she could be and do anything he wanted if he would just give her the chance. She stifled the panic that wanted to build.

If he rejected her she did not know what would become of her.

Selakir lifted her head. Her eyes did not meet his, to do so would be to challenge his position as master. It was something she would not do.

"I wish to serve you. I wish to remain here and to show you that I can be a good servant. Allow me to serve you, master, in all things."