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Damien Moore

0 · 397 views · located in A world of magic and mystery...

a character in “The Marchand School of Sorcery”, originally authored by ianna_334, as played by RolePlayGateway

So begins...

Damien Moore's Story

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Maeve Brigid Byrne Character Portrait: Madison Lewis Lovette Character Portrait: Dawn Memoli Character Portrait: Helena Kingsley Character Portrait: Tessa Botrelle Character Portrait: Professor Oren Kovalenko
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  1. This was a really pleasant read. I especially liked the "Nope not my problem." Use of Shadow step was also nice to see!

    by TerrorFloof

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'So it begins.'

Professor Oren Kovalenko, an angular figure with dark hair and a long blue coat, watched the numerous new students filing in, passing through the front office and signing off on forms with a sceptical eye. Well, one eye was on the throngs of their new intake, the other was on her phone where she was busy informing any staff members that were not already aware that the first large bus had pulled up and the place was beginning to fill up.

And she didn't expect a group of young mages to maintain any standard of behaviour for very long.

Especially not ones that were more often than not rich, privileged, sheltered, and had never been taught how to properly behave.

Speaking of that-

Norwegian shouting from the entranceway. Oh christ.
From where she was standing Oren could make out three figures at least a head taller than most of the people filtering around them. A woman in he late thirties with long, grey-flecked ginger hair and a crimson coat on, and a hulking man with a beard you could lose a family pet in, both hugging and saying their goodbyes to a third figure. Younger, but still with nearly a foot of height on the Professor, with a mop of red-orange hair and a voice with a strong nordic accent that was carrying over near enough everyone else's together.

Norrevinters.
No mistaking those.

With one deft movement Miss Kovalenko stepped back into the shadow of one of the hall's pillars, and melted into the darkness without a word.

Somebody else could handle Ren's spawn and the ginger storm. She'd see to making sure no-one had started killing each other in the dining hall.

As it was some students had started eating, or introducing themselves. Oren materialized out from behind the door, quite alarming several students who'd been lines up there, and proceeded to check over the status of things.




Over to one side of the cafeteria, on an otherwise yet unoccupied table, a small figure was slumped over the the surface, next to what was now the degenerated milky sludge of a bowl of cereal left uneaten beyond its time, and something that long ago ceased to be a hot drink.

Her long, rather untidy-looking red hair was spread across the table like seaweed, and she was wearing a blue sweater lined with knitted purple cat faces, the phrase 'Have a Mice Day' inset into the back and front. It was at least two sizes too big and luridly coloured enough that the student was clashing with the furnishings.

Professor K came to a halt behind the student, regarding the girl with her look of pitiless reptilian distaste before finally speaking up.

"Are we boring you already, Kingsley?"

The redhead awoke with a start, knocking her bowl astray with one hand and splattering the fortified mud across the surface.

The Professor remained perfectly stationary whilst one of her charges scrambled, blinking, to try and both stem the flow of milk from the upturned bowl, and address her at the same time.

"Oh..no! No Professor! I was just um...is it breakfast time?"
Apparently only just realising how many others had entered the cafeteria, the student known as 'Kingsley' looked over to the table across, giving a rather sheepish smile.

Kovalenko's expression however was her usual weary mask of disapproval.
"Well Kingsley that is what everyone else is doing, if you would like to try and catch up with the timetable, I think it would probably be beneficial for you. And please try and avoid wasting food in the future."

"Y-yes Professor..." the girl hastily responded, pale cheek reddening a little as the watched the aquamancer turn and walk off down the row.
"...so that's the year off to a good start..."

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dawn Memoli Character Portrait: Tessa Botrelle Character Portrait: Desdemona Moore Character Portrait: Damien Moore
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  1. Desc came to school looking super fancy.

    by TerrorFloof

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Green eyes looked back at her from a mirror as she carefully applied eyeliner and mascara, holding a staring contest with herself until the makeup was dry enough that she could blink without messing it all up. It had been the final touch, because Desi had been excited since she had come here with her dad late last night. And speaking of her dad


“First bus, Diamond.”

She spun on the stool and ran over to the window, watching as the vehicle pulled in and the new students began to flood out. She felt a shiver of excitement, and turned to beam at her dad. Blond and brown eyed, she’d never considered him less than her birth father since she was 8, and she put a hand on her hip while the other fluffed her hair, demanding,

“How do I look?”

Desdemona had spent a good few hours on her preparations, starting bright and early with curling the bottom quarter of her hair. Ringlets bounced near the end of otherwise wavy blond, green eyes blinked under long and dark lashes. She’d chosen one of her new dresses, a white number trimmed by an inch of emerald green, knee length with a flowing skirt and the sleeves off the shoulders, just as she liked it. The shoes she’d wear with the outfit stood by the door, white kitten heels that she was more comfortable in than anything substantially boosting her height.

“Beautiful, as always. Now go and make friends” Desi smiled happily, and let her dad kiss the top of her head before she got the shoes on and dashed out the door. Her silver necklace bounced as she ran, though she stopped and smoothed herself out once she got to the first floor. She waved cheerily at the receptionist (her papers had been signed earlier that morning, when she hadn’t been able to sit still) and entered the cafeteria, following the smell of food. She got a small breakfast together, then looked around curiously before deciding on a table where two other girls already sat.

“Hi!” she greeted, eyes still wide with excitement and smiling. “Mind if I sit down?“

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Derrick Arthur Avalon Character Portrait: Damien Moore
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Derrick's steps echoed down the hallway in a rhythmic fashion as he walked towards his target. The young but reliable necromancy teacher Damien. As he approached the sound of a young girl's voice mingled with static filled his ears. A smile flickered across his face as he clapped a shoulder down on his co-workers shoulder. As soon as the beep sounded he turned to the owner of the phone. "You have quite the firecracker there. I would be careful how you tread here though, you can't give her any special treatment."

With a shake of a head he removed his hand the smile fading from his features. "Student Orientation is starting, care to join me in intimidating the young and hopeful charges." It was not that he minded the kids really he loved children, but teenagers were a different story. Broody, pamper, lust filled, disrespectfully, secretive, and nosy beings that could drive anyone to drink. He had already raised one and that had not turned out too bad but other people trusting their teens with him was a disaster waiting to happen. Even so it was too late to back out now.

Sighing as he made causal conversation with his co-worker as they walked towards the library. "I've looked over our co-workers files and they all seem quite capable. Hopefully the students are able to keep busy with their lessons and learn more than they would with tutors alone." After all that was the point of Marchland.

As they entered the library he moved up front, standing up straight next to the rest of the staff. He always felt right surrounded by Maeve, Oren, Montana, and Madison the former members of his old unit's presence had a calming effect on his nerves. He was Derrick Arthur Avalon and he was going to be the best goddam teacher out there.

His sunglasses turned towards the incoming student body, watching each and every student behind his tinted sunglasses and silently judging them. The enchantment on his sunglasses was more than enough to unnerve those in the room unaware of it. "I'm ready to do introductions when you all are."

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dinah Fox Character Portrait: Theren Belvadeer Character Portrait: Nefertiti Anapa III Character Portrait: Maeve Brigid Byrne Character Portrait: Madison Lewis Lovette Character Portrait: Dawn Memoli
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Dami smiled at his fellow teacher, rolling his eyes. ”Give me some credit, Derrick, I know not to favour Desdemona, and she knows it too. It won’t stop her from trying, though. And she might have a point about food waste, even if she could have said it better, and expressed her concerns more politely.”

The phone beeped off, and Dami slipped it into his pocket, walking and talking. ”But really, why? I know adults who are scared of Oren Kovalenko, with good reason, why does my daughter seem to think she could take her on? And they’ll already be intimidated if they have any sense.” he said breezily. ”Some of the mage world’s most well-known fighters are teaching, that isn’t a reputation to take lightly. Even if some children don’t seem to have put the pieces together just yet.”

Dami adjusted the fall of his cloak over his shoulders, the deep blue material glimmering as if with stars. Being a necromancer meant a lot of unexpected cold drafts; he’d learned to always dress for them instead of dealing with sudden goosebumps every time a relative popped in to say hello. ”I do think this will be good for them, though. The primaries are always well taught, but the secondaries are hard to know what to look for in a tutor. Though I’m not looking forward to dealing with different skill levels in necromancy either. Do you know the verdict on the power reading proposal?”.

During the planning for the school, one debated topic was as to whether or not the students should be put through some form of test to determine the size of their power wells. Dami had either missed the final decision or one hadn’t been made yet, and he didn’t know when he could next ask. However, he never did get his answer, as they entered the library then, and approached the rest of the staff. Dami took a moment to compose himself, then smiled as he went to join his colleagues. There was a stereotype about necromancers, one as ridiculous as the one about terramancers always wearing green or tricksters being compulsive liars. Being blond, bright-eyed, nearly always smiling and favouring rich blues or reds over black meant that Dami looked nothing like the image most people got when thinking “necromancer”. But that was of no importance compared to what the man could do when wielding his powers. Smiling brightly, he took his place, observing the future students.

And the plenty of ghosts mingling in the crowd. Ancestors had come out in full force today to see their descendants off to school.

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Theren Belvadeer Character Portrait: Nefertiti Anapa III Character Portrait: Madison Lewis Lovette Character Portrait: Professor Oren Kovalenko Character Portrait: Drake Coleman Character Portrait: Seraph
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Theren listened to the teachers as Professor Kovalenko lectured the crowd about eating when not authorized to. That was why she froze the food? That couldn't just be the reason. Considering this was the first day of school, Theren had to assume all of this was a power play. She was establishing herself as top dog; showing just how powerful she was so the students would fall in line. His eyes narrowed as he tried to commit her face to memory. He was really going to have to look her up in the professor notes and then the internet. As Theren put his frozen food back on the table, another professor came up and defrosted the food and drink. Another display of power. Theren looked up at the second professor. She was cute and seemed nicer than the ice queen. He was a bit surprised when Professor Lovette came by their table to drop off the broom, but he felt worse for Lucien. Poor thing was shaking like a leaf.

"Lulu, it is okay," he said softly. He reached out to place his hands on Lulu's to help them stop shivering. He gave him a bright smile. "You don't have to worry so much." Theren then bent down to clean up some of the mess. He set that aside and looked at his plate. Sure they all just got yelled at for eating but he was fricking starving. He hadn't had breakfast since they had been informed that breakfast was going to be provided. And they were all going to the library now which meant they weren't going to be eating for a while. He reached over to his plate and quickly snatched up the 3 bacon strips Professor Lovette had reheated. With bacon hanging out of his mouth, he pulled his bag over his shoulder and tucked his books into the nook of his arm. Only then did he start nibbling the food. He turned his attention to his little group of friends then.

"Well, I guess we should head to the library. It looks like if we don't hurry we are going to get left behind," he mused. He debated a moment before he stuffed the rest of the bacon in his mouth to wrap his free arm around Lucien's neck to pull him closer and start walking with him. He didn't want Lucien to fall behind. He was already a frightened rabbit and he didn't want him getting in trouble for some stupid reason. He needed to find a way to get Lucien to not be so afraid of his own shadow.

As they began walking, Theren glanced back at the two girls. "Distractions aside, it is a pleasure to meet you both. We make an interesting group. Two aeromancers, a rune caster, and a blood-healing mage." They were diverse and similar enough to at least have some classes together so they wouldn't be alone, no matter the primary. "Nef I would love it if we could share our knowledge about blood magic. I am actually really interested in blood magic as my second secondary. No one in my immediate family uses blood magic so I haven't had the opportunity to learn, outside of reading some books about it. And what are the secondaries you guys pursuing?" he asked Lucien and Nimura. "My other secondary is shadow step."

And it was at this time that they made it to the library. It was now far too crowded for Theren to be comfortable. It was stifling. He had liked the library when there was few people in it. His eyes quickly locked onto the professor table so he could get a glimpse of all the instructors and his eyes landed on one blond teacher specifically. His heart fluttered a moment. Damn. He was hot. He caught himself staring a moment before he realized what he was doing and cleared his throat to get his mind elsewhere. "Where um... where did you guys want to sit? All the tables look kinda full."



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Seraph gave a small sigh of relief when Drake told him that he didn't have a problem with him sitting down beside him. The first half of the awkward greeting was over. He could start relaxing. He set his things down and settled down in the chair as Drake introduced himself. A little more consciousness now, Seraph pushed his bangs away from his face as his father had advised earlier so Drake didn't think he was trying to hide or anything and gave the man his full attention. His eyes widened however when Drake mentioned that he was new to mage culture and that regular humans had raised him. That was incredible! A smile lit up his features then and he sat forward at the table to try and get a little closer.

"Wow! You were raised by non-mages? That is neat! What was it like growing up with them? And you didn't know you were a mage at all? Then how did you know about the school and stuff? Was it like the Harry Potter books where a letter came in the mail for you and and and then you found out that you were a mage? How did your family react to you being a mage? Do they know?" Okay maybe being a little excited had been an understatement. "Do you know what your primary is? Did anyone explain that stuff to you? I am still pretty young so I can't help much but I think it would be so cool to discover your magic! I kind of always knew so it really wasn't a fun guessing game." All of his moving around ended up with his hair in his face again, but he ignored it this time around.

"And you won't offend me! I don't know much about family names yet either so I don't know much about yours," he reassured. He was kind of happy that Drake didn't know about family names either. The two of them could start off fresh without worrying about status and name importance. "Non-mages don't think their last names are important or do they?" he asked. Realizing he was probably coming off too strong and asking too many questions, Seraph sat back in his chair and flushed. "Sorry. I am just excited." he murmured. He hoped Drake didn't stop talking to him because of his exuberance.

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Madison Lewis Lovette Character Portrait: Dawn Memoli Character Portrait: Tover Book Character Portrait: Tessa Botrelle Character Portrait: Professor Oren Kovalenko Character Portrait: Leila Michelle Ingram
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  1. I was just moving her so as to not hold up the assembly ^^;

    by ianna_334

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Desi had taken her own interpretation of the Professor’s speech, as she often did. Blah, listen to us, blah, I’m better than you, etcetera etcetera all boiling down to “who do you think you are, you little bitch?” Eh, it was fair. She’d known what she’d been doing when she decided to speak up. There were a few things she wanted to comment on though, one of which was that the professor appeared to have missed her point completely. Desi wasn’t annoyed about the food being inedible. She was annoyed over the principle of the thing. And secondly – it was insulting for the woman to imply that Damien would favour her. She was well aware that the only advantage she would have with her dad was that she was familiar with how he taught and what he considered the basics.

The new teacher coming in turned the tables though, making Desi feel that maybe she had missed the point as well. Or maybe they had been on different pages all along. She watched the pyromancer curiously as she fixed the food, then looked at the defense teacher. Why hadn’t the man spoken louder, then? She hadn’t heard him over the din at all. The girl poked at her pancake again. She didn’t doubt Professor Lovette’s skill but she doubted that it tasted good now. Instead she drank the juice, thankfully still palatable, and then stood along with her group and moved over to the library. She wasn’t a troublemaker at heart, and so she sat quietly, looking around.

Her smile reappeared quickly when her dad entered the room and she gave him a small wave, trying not to draw too much attention now in contrast to before. She rolled her eyes slightly upon noticing why he had been late, and giggled, covering her moth with a dainty hand. No need to make things harder for Dami to be taken seriously until he had a chance to demonstrate how much he knew.

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dinah Fox Character Portrait: Theren Belvadeer Character Portrait: Nefertiti Anapa III Character Portrait: Maeve Brigid Byrne Character Portrait: Madison Lewis Lovette Character Portrait: Dawn Memoli
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Despite the initial clamor and difficulty that had come with breakfast, things seemed to have smoothed out relatively well. The students had filed in and taken their seats as requested (among them was a batch of new faces that could be recognized as the late arrivals) and what stragglers that hadn’t yet entered the library were few in number.

The Pyromancy Professor was quite pleased. Hopefully, things would go much easier through the later parts of the day.

“They are quite the bunch,” Madison smiled. “It seems like this will be a very interesting semester, if what they’ve shown us is any indication.”

It didn’t take long for most of the missing professors to join the gathering- many of whom remained silent throughout, all of which Mr. Lovette greeted with a curt nod and a smile- and, deciding that the library held almost all of the students, was about to announce to official beginning of the assembly when a girl approached him. A particularly small, flustered-looking girl. Face knitting up with concern, Madison lowered himself to better meet the student’s gaze. Concern soon grew into surprise, and surprise grew into bewilderment.

“Well.” Clearing his throat, Madison straightened up, pulled out his phone, and began to scroll through it, occasionally peeking over at Jesse and giving a small nod before continuing. “Well, miss...Smith, yes? It says here that you’re registered here as a Terramancer, with full permission by your parents.” Frowning, he turned the screen towards Jesse, showing a formal picture of the girl with all necessary details listed below. Once he was sure that she had read through it, Madison turned it back, then slipped it back into the folds of his skirt.

He stayed silent for a few moments longer, lips pursed in careful thought, and, after shooting his fellow staff a particularly lost look (and checking to see that the girl wasn’t cracking up with laughter at some kind of joke and still seemed completely shaken), put on his best comforting face and lowered himself once more. “Ms. Smith
” Madison began steadily. “Have you ever read...Harry Potter? The main character, Harry, well...he was a wizard for all his life, but didn’t know it until he was invited to Hogwarts, yes? Well, I’m afraid you might be in a...similar circumstance. Your parents were mages, and so are you- but for whatever reason, they chose not to inform you of that.”

A pause, so as to let the information to sink in, before continuing.

“Now. I understand that this news may come as a...bit of a shock, if you truly didn’t know, but I assure you that it’s the truth. I would show you another example of magic, but as we’re in the library, I’m not quite sure it would be the best choice. I’d be more than happy to escort you to the clinic after the assembly, if you need to take a moment. Hopefully, this meeting should clarify a few things up for you, first, however.” Offering another gentle smile, Madison stood, then went to rejoin the other teachers at Skylar’s prompt.

A quick flick of a switch swallowed up the room in darkness, and another flick lit it up again- albeit with a much more weak, timid light offered via a projector and screen. Nodding to himself, Madison stepped close to the glow, casting odd shadows across his face.

“Now that everyone is settled,” he said, “I would like to begin. As you already know, my name is Professor Lovette, teacher of Pyromancy and Magical Theory. You will be attending Marchand for the next semester, during which it will be our job to educate and provide for you. Regardless of who you are, what social standing you come from, or even your family line, you all will be treated as equals here. You will face no bias from your professors- but as a result, you must follow the exact same list of rules.” Madison paused, clicking a button on the side of the projector and causing the screen to light up with text.

“While you should have received the list when you arrived, I will go over it now, so there are no misunderstandings in the future.

With the exception of any prescribed medications, no drugs are allowed on school grounds.

Boys and girls are prohibited from entering the other's’ dorms.

On a related note, sexual activity of any sort is prohibited.”
Madison paused, suddenly, eyeing his audience. “While I understand that many of you will form relationships while here, understand that we will be performing random dorm checks often, and it would make things much less unpleasant for everyone if you all kept from being a bit...too intimate.

“Arrive to class on time.

Do not break school curfew.

You are forbidden to leave campus, with the exception of school mandated events.

If you happen to have any personal firearms or weapons, please check them in with Professor Avalon or Professor Byrne to be approved.

No summons are allowed within class, with the exception of Familiar Conjuration.

No reckless use of magic of any kind.

Fights are also prohibited, save for any instructed by Professor Byrne.

Lastly, please show respect to your peers, as well as your professors- no matter background, ethnicity, sexuality, and so on.”


All of this was spoken with a clean-cut formality, hinting that the little speech had been rehearsed several times before its official delivery. This was reinforced by the decisiveness which Professor Lovette stepped from the light, hands folded behind his back. “Now, if my fellow instructors would like to elaborate on any of the restrictions?”

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dinah Fox Character Portrait: Theren Belvadeer Character Portrait: Nefertiti Anapa III Character Portrait: Maeve Brigid Byrne Character Portrait: Madison Lewis Lovette Character Portrait: Dawn Memoli
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Toby made a concentrated effort to make eye contact with each of the professors as they entered, and smile with a half nod.
Just about all of them looked like some manner of badass, except maybe the Moore necromancer, the blanched young woman (hooray; a professor probably younger than he), and Madison, though Toby knew looks to be deceiving on that front.

Oren's quiet, sarcastic comment about a great start to the year didn't escape Toby. He tried hard to pretend it wasn't directed against him, and tried harder not to tense as she sat beside her. "I'm sure it will be looking up once everyone is into the swing of things," he said lightly.

This was fine.

No it wasn't.
She sort of terrified him.

When Madison had finished his rundown, Toby adjusted his crisp while collar with a fluttery hand. Time for introductions and such. To get it over with, he stood to his full, not insignificant height. Even staring several heads above the seated crowd, he managed to feel little.

"Hello. I just wanted to elaborate a bit on familiar policies. I'm Professor Schippers, by the way. I'll be t - teaching Runes and Familiar Conjuration this year, and I look forward to seeing many of you in - class. Ahm." He tried not to let his eyeline linger on any face for more than a second. That way he couldn't have time to read what any of those faces said. "As Professor Lovette said--thank you, by the way--all summonings must be either unsummoned or left securely in your quarters during any period except Familiars, and be properly restrained or trained so as not to disrupt other students or their property, unless you have prior permission," he added, he hoped offhandly, not wanting to embarrass or put on the spot the only student in the room who had such permission. "You're welcome to have familiars active during free time. If you do have a c - complaint about a c - classmate's or roommate's familiar, you're welcome to speak with me during office hours to work out a c - compromise. So. Thanks."

And he sat down with the relief of a drowning man breaking the surface of the sea.
Cursed be the letter "C" today.

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dinah Fox Character Portrait: Theren Belvadeer Character Portrait: Nefertiti Anapa III Character Portrait: Maeve Brigid Byrne Character Portrait: Madison Lewis Lovette Character Portrait: Dawn Memoli
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#, as written by Skwidge
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Draivess lent his shoulders a bit of rest, rolling them back gently as he held his crossed arms resolutely. He gazed about emotionlessly at all of the gathered students. Really just looking at them for the sake of something for his eyes to do, though truthfully he was also assessing each of them, mere seconds holding analysis and opinion of a whole handful of students at a time. He gave a cursory glance to the other teachers, searching their faces for any sign of them actually starting any time soon. Madison looked as though he were about to say something, when a quiet voice spoke up, interrupting the cross-dresser. Why Mr. Lovette dabbled in women's fashion was rather beyond Draivess, but it was not as though he were going to be asking.

At the student’s explanation, Dry quirked an eyebrow. Was this student for real? She really had no idea that she was a mage? Drey could have scoffed with disbelief had he not been in front of hundreds of students at that moment. His face remained blank as always. This girl was going to get steamrolled. His gaze slid away from the two, tuning out Madi’s words as they weren’t relevant to him. He could only pray that the small girl would be in neither of his classes, for gods knew he wouldn’t have the patience to deal with her skittish nature nor her absolute lack of everything that pertained to them and their entire world.

The room suddenly darkened, but Drey did not shift his position in the slightest. He already knew what was happening; he had been briefed on the introductory lecture earlier. Lovette went through the list of rules, having obviously practiced it beforehand in order to deliver it to perfection on the day. It showed a high level of professionality and a sharp respect for the job he and the other teachers were doing here. Dry kept his gaze solely on the sea of students before him, lips a stern, straight line, but no malice or irritation showed in his features. He wanted to see how the students responded, but for the most part they remained silent, some nodding while others just kept their focus on the front of the room. At least they were paying attention.

Mad’s voice filled the room once more then, asking if any of the teachers had something to add to the general rules. Of all of the teachers, it was Toby who stepped up first. Drey was a little surprised at this, since from what very little he knew of the man-- and of all of the other teachers for that matter-- he had seemed to be somewhat shy and subordinate. He had expected another to take the lead, but perhaps the smaller man had managed to gather up his courage and didn’t want to take the chance of losing it with time. Nonetheless, the man still stumbled and stuttered a bit throughout the speech, but that seemed to just be something to expect with Schippers. Draivess couldn’t help but glance over towards him when he finished. The man looked utterly relieved, seeming to confirm Drey’s suspicions about courage. He was glad that the little teacher had managed to get through it with so few bumps.

However, as Toby finished and sat back down, Drey waited for another teacher to speak up, and fully expected this to happen. Yet, he waited
 and waited
 and waited. Was no one really stepping up yet? It seemed as though they had left Toby hanging. In reality it had not been too terribly long since Toby had finished, but it was getting to the point where they were quickly approaching a sort of awkward silence, about 20 to 25 seconds later. Drey did not bother to look at the other teachers during this, simply keeping his arms crossed and looking forward at the students. He really didn’t want to be the next to speak, in fact had planned on going sometime last, but he was not about to leave a colleague hanging, or, furthermore, let any student think that they didn’t have full control of the situation or were even hesitant about this introduction.

So, Mr. Ulftern stepped forward with absolute ease, confidence and comfort very apparent in his body language. It gave the very strong impression that they had intended for the small lull, had let the seconds pass by in order to instill the seriousness of Familiar matters, had used the time to look over the students and ensure they understood. It had not been a time to become lax in attention. After all, almost every aspect of what they were teaching was dangerous, and every single one of them should be taken with the utmost seriousness and respect. Failure to do so would result in injury or death, and gods knew Draivess had enough of both for six lifetimes, whether in sheer number or lasting effects.

”Draivess Ulftern,” His voice rang out with strength and poise, demanding the attention of the students there as he introduced himself. There was no mistaking him for a man who wasn’t in charge. He didn’t seem to be particularly fazed about peculiarities with his name either, having purposely left out any ‘Professor’ or ‘Instructor’. In even his first words, his German accent was very pronounced, but it was clear and concise, easily understood and not hindering him in any manner of getting his point across. ”Levitation or Poisons? You are mine.” His voice was rich and full, but still it was clear that English wasn’t his primary language-- thus the strange choice of wording. ”My English will not always be perfect, but it will not be problem.” The expression of his form was so confident that indeed, surely there would be absolutely no reason for any student to find a problem with communicating with him. He almost seemed bored as he said this, as though to intone that ‘duh, of course it won’t, why would you ever think it would?’ in both the smoothness of his voice and the command he seemed so easily to wield over himself and the room while he held it.

The muscled German leveled his gaze specifically at the students then as he continued, ”Toxins will not be practiced outside of their specifically marked locations unless otherwise stated with supervision.” He shifted his posture lightly, uncrossing his arms and standing comfortably. ”I expect full respect to be given to mineself and my colleagues, and full attention imparted upon all aspects of teacher-student meetings and classes.” He was driving this particular rule in sharply by repeating it—it almost seemed directed at a particular white-haired student who had gotten up to go and interact with a very late arrival sometime between Lovette and Schipper’s speeches-- before moving his gaze and adding, “You’ll find me terribly disappointed if that’s not the case,” Draivess spoke this part as if he were giving a little pout, though almost with a playful smirk. He finished that thought then with, ”And absolutely unmerciful.” Any coyness about his prior remark dropped with the tone of absoluteness coming in when he completed said statement here. Strong, direct, and no room for negotiation in the things he had stated during his introduction. With a curt nod, he stepped back and slipped his hands into the pockets of his trousers, having said his part and now allowing the next teacher to step up.

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dinah Fox Character Portrait: Theren Belvadeer Character Portrait: Nefertiti Anapa III Character Portrait: Maeve Brigid Byrne Character Portrait: Madison Lewis Lovette Character Portrait: Dawn Memoli
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"Catch up later?" Toby asked, and Captain Byrne gave a brief nod of affirmation as the students began filing in. Some, she picked out based on their distinctive family features or prior meetings: Sterling, Fox, Anapa, Botrelle, Avalon, Sayge, Belvadeer, and a few others. Kovalenko and Lovette were speaking to her. Some late-comers filed in. The remaining teachers, too.

A dull ringing began whispering in her left ear as she took her seat, and passed to the right.

The blind girl from the roster made herself immediately apparent, judging by the small monstrosity curled around her chair. It would be a problem for combat.

The smell of copper rushed through Maeve's nasal passages just as the lights went out, and the taste of it coated her tongue in a sudden and slick burst.

Her hand shot out to grasp the seat of Professor Kovalenko's chair beside her for a split second and then-

Nothing.

Professor Byrne's eyes locked onto a table of students she had been formerly only glancing over, pupils growing wide with a wildness only accented by the head of fiery red hair fuming out behind her. If the Belvadeer boy were to turn to look at his combat instructor, he would find her staring at him (or perhaps through him?) with a predatory intensity. Under the table, the fingers of her left hand curled and uncurled at her side, in a rapid and inconsistent rhythm. The rest of her body was rigid, muscles coiled like some great, orange lioness ready to spring.

She remained like that, staring directly at the boy, for the entirety of Lovette and Schipper's speeches, as well as the long pause that followed them. In fact, her stare did not break until the tail end of what Draivess was saying, at which point it dissolved with a series of rapid blinks and a shiver of her back.

Her grip on Kovalenko's chair disappeared, and her eyes moved over to Mr. Ulftern.

She didn't know much about the guy: Curt in staff meetings; had a high collaborator death count in the war. Generally not her first pick of Defenders, to be honest, but she wasn't on the hiring committee.

Pretentious bastard.

After taking a hard swallow, she pushed her chair back and stood. Her eyes narrowed and she leaned in forward toward the class, fists knuckle-down against the table as she shamelessly let it be known that she was inspecting them.

"Captain Maeve Brigid Byrne," she said, her vowels clipped sharp and bright by an unforgiving Irish accent, "Captain Byrne, Professor Byrne, and 'sir,' are also acceptable titles." As she straightened up, the now-unbuttoned collar of her shirt shifted to the side for a brief moment, revealing the top edge of a black-inked tattoo peeking over her clavicle. "I'll be your instructor for combat and Aeromancy, so every one of you in this room will be seeing me for at least one course.

"Considering that, it will serve you well to know that I take this quite seriously. You will be handling firearms, swords, daggers, and the forces of bloody nature itself, so if you've got an issue with taking instruction, you're going to have an issue with passing my course. I am not your Mommy, your friend, or your nursemaid, and I will not 'go easy' on any one of you without a very, very good reason.

"That being said, if you have any such reason, you may fill out the form beside my office in the gym by the end of the school day. If it is not filled out, I will assume you are fit to take full-force hits in combat as of tomorrow."


As she finished speaking, she rolled one shoulder so that the joint gave an audible crack, and then took her seat.

"I'll assume I'm understood."

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dinah Fox Character Portrait: Theren Belvadeer Character Portrait: Nefertiti Anapa III Character Portrait: Maeve Brigid Byrne Character Portrait: Madison Lewis Lovette Character Portrait: Dawn Memoli
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Dami watched both Toby and Draivess speak without much outward response. He had heard of both men before, had not been aware that they would be his coworkers, but now was not the time to ponder. Maeve, on the other hand – she was hard to miss, and said her piece very characteristically, he thought. Very much like the woman herself. He stepped up next, drew his cloak over his shoulders, and released into the room the cold aura of a practising necromancer, the whispers of the dead rising in his ears.

“I’m Damien Moore.” His voice was calm, but there was a smile in his eyes and on his lips as he looked around the room, letting his cloak fall open again as the chill faded. “I will be teaching Necromancy and Healing, and I can assure you of a proficiency in both, no matter what is said about their conflicting natures” he flippantly gestured with his fingers, then moved his hands to his hips. “I’d also like to address the rule on sexual activity. You are all young people and undoubtedly, some of you are rather curious about sex and are thinking this will be a good testing ground for your newly discovered urges. A word of advice, don’t. A vast majority of you are the heirs and heiresses of powerful lines. Your parents will undoubtedly be most displeased if you become too entangled with one another. In addition, Marchand School of Sorcery has a full disclosure policy in regards to parents knowing their student’s health. If by some twist of fate we end up with a pregnancy, all parents and family heads of both involved students will be invited to the school. At lunchtime, they will be congratulated on their upcoming heir and the future union between lines. Everyone will know, and carelessness will receive no aid from staff. On the other hand, if someone can’t keep it in their pants and forces you into unwanted sexual contact, report to professor Avalon immediately. There is no tolerance for completed or attempted sexual misconduct, or false reports of such. The slighted party will be allowed to design and inflict a creative punishment within reasonable limits after an adult trial by the Council of Eight Powers has been completed. Those of you without reputations, don’t get involved. You will not fare well if your romance is anything less than fairytale perfect.”

His eyes flashed in the dim lights as he looked around the room, making eye contact with students to ensure they were paying attention. Dami was more sympathetic than most when it came to youthful sexuality. That did not, however, mean he wanted to deal with the scandal it could bring, when young people were too curious and things got too serious, too fast. They had a job to do here, and dealing with future generations younger than 14 was not on that list.

Satisfied with his speech, he once again smiled brightly, enthusiasm flooding his voice. “I look forward to seeing you in my classes! Welcome to Marchand!” he greeted, and spun, cloak swirling dramatically, ending up back in his place, and looking pleased to be there.

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Maeve Brigid Byrne Character Portrait: Tover Book Character Portrait: Jessica Rose Smith Character Portrait: Draivess Ulftern Character Portrait: Minori Fukutawa Character Portrait: Esperanza Ciervo
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There seemed to be a bit of a lull once the nervous man had sat back down, the relative silence of the room making her feel even more awkward and alone. Looking out at the students sitting around, she noticed a lot of age difference between students. Were they broken up by year here, or were they all being taught together? She had been tutored or home-schooled most of her life, given the reclusive nature of her home, but she had read that most school had freshmen, sophomores, and the like. She was not looking forward to the combat classes against some of the older looking kids.

The movement of one of the students caught her eye, his hair immediately sticking out as it appeared to be white like hers. 'Does he dye his hair too?' she wondered, her grip on her bags tightening slightly as it became more clear that she was his target. She was nervous about the social interaction, but did not flinch away from the stranger, even as he raised his hand, feeling a slight hint of embarrassment as she realized he was merely waving. She'd gotten too used to dealing with predators, she supposed.

"Heya, I'm Tover," the boy stated warmly, though Minori couldn't help but notice his eyes darting everywhere as he studied her. She did the same, noting his faded eyes and messy appearance. He also seemed to be older than her, and wasn't hard on the eyes either. She nearly jumped when he brought up the box of pastries, not expecting the gift, though she had to admit she was a little hungry.

"Didn’t see you during breakfast, have a pastry to tide you over," he said opening the lid and giving Minori a moment to take her pick. She quickly dropped one of her bags and grabbed a cinnamon bun, quickly taking a bite and savoring the sweetness. She paid little mind to the glaze sticking to her mouth. After taking another bite, Minori's eyes widened and she quickly swallowed, her body stiffening as she dropped her other bag and held out her hand.

"I'm Minori. Thank you for the food," she declared, though kept her volume as low as she could manage. Tover turned slightly and gestured to some of the other students, motioning specifically at the empty seats in the vicinity.

"Your bags will be safe if you just leave them in the corner here. We won’t let anyone run off with them. If you’re looking for a place to sit, try next to the distraught girl with the small animal in her hoodie. She looks like she needs someone who likes animals to talk to." Tover said, giving Minori just enough time to study the table a moment before adding, "Oh, and Welcome to Marchand."

Minori looked back from the table and back to Tover, grinning before quickly wrapping her arms around him in a brief hug. "Thank you," she whispered before letting go, quickly taking off her backpack and sitting it beside of her other bags. She was thankful to have a better idea of what to do now, if nothing else, but the warm welcome had melted off a lot of the insecurity around her heart. She looked back at the table Tover had mentioned, more specifically the person he'd said had needed a friend. Her attention shifted back to the front of the room when she realized another of the teachers had started talking, this one with a German accent. He mentioned having respect for faculty-student meetings, and the gaze he cast in their direction put a shiver up Minori's spine. She had no idea if sensing someone's aura or intent was a magical ability, but nonetheless she got a distinctly bad feeling from the man, staring back at him before he continued.

Without thinking, Minori reached back into Tover's pastry box without really looking and grabbed a pastry, an eclair as it turned out, and quietly made her way to sit beside of the girl Tover had pointed out. Minori plopped down into the chair and shifted to smile at the girl, but instead sharply inhaled as she saw the little mouse fidgeting about in her hoodie. She started to gingerly pet its head with her index finger, but quickly remembered her manners.

"I'm Minori. I like your mouse," she said quietly, taking another bite of her cinnamon bun before offering Jessica the eclair. Looking past her, she noticed another girl sitting on the other side of Jessica who was texting on her phone, looking pleased about whatever it was she was typing. Minori didn't know why, but the sight of the phone seemed odd at a sorcery school. Too much romanticism on her part, she supposed. She'd offer a wave and a smile should she look up at her, but she was a little too far off to make conversation with without drawing attention.

She gave Jessica time to acknowledge her, but before she could respond, the german teacher finished speaking and had taken his seat. He had mentioned toxins, she thought, but tuned out the rest since it wasn't in her curriculum. She couldn't wait for Familiar Conjuration to be brought up.

The next to take the floor was a woman who Minori immediately could tell was strong. Her posture was straight as a board and her stride was one that defied anything to slow her down. From what Minori could see of her eyes they gave off the same vibe as that of a wolf's, cunning and always searching for weakness. Eyes that hid a viciousness behind their intelligence that was always ready to be brought to the surface. Minori touched the faded scar on her neck without thinking, the woman reminding her of what it meant to let your guard down around something that could rip your throat out.

"Captain Maeve Brigid Byrne," she said, "Captain Byrne, Professor Byrne, and 'sir,' are also acceptable titles. I'll be your instructor for combat and Aeromancy, so every one of you in this room will be seeing me for at least one course. Considering that, it will serve you well to know that I take this quite seriously. You will be handling firearms, swords, daggers, and the forces of bloody nature itself, so if you've got an issue with taking instruction, you're going to have an issue with passing my course. I am not your Mommy, your friend, or your nursemaid, and I will not 'go easy' on any one of you without a very, very good reason. That being said, if you have any such reason, you may fill out the form beside my office in the gym by the end of the school day. If it is not filled out, I will assume you are fit to take full-force hits in combat as of tomorrow."

Minori swallowed a lump in her throat.

"I'll assume I'm understood."

Minori nodded, despite the speech not being directly addressed to her. Her wolf assessment wasn't too far off of the mark.

The next teacher was head of necromancy and healing, which caused Minori to lose interest again. Instead, she picked out a bit of the insides of her cinnamon bun and offered them to the mouse in Jessica's possession, smiling as it regarded the treat. She would have resumed talking, but decided it best not to in case Jessica was in those classes.

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dinah Fox Character Portrait: Maeve Brigid Byrne Character Portrait: Madison Lewis Lovette Character Portrait: Larke Sterling Character Portrait: Draivess Ulftern Character Portrait: Minori Fukutawa
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As the lights went out, Larke leaned back in his chair, considerably more concerned with the fact that his hair was still damp from the breakfast fiasco then with whatever the hell anyone up front had to say. Everyone knew the first day of lessons, in any kind of school, was a joke: Run down the rules, hand out a list of things you need to figure out, maybe play some idiotic icebreaker game as a class.

Networking and understanding the social order were far more important.

Nonetheless, he maintained a manufactured look of interest as Lovette ran down the basic rules that most adults liked to run down, nodding occasionally to give the illusion that he had not, in fact, smuggled in several bottles of Sterling whiskey hidden amongst his luggage.

As the next teacher took the floor to speak, Larke leaned forward against the table with one hand resting on his chin. “Professor Schippers-by-the-way” did not teach any class Larke was in, but he looked like he was about two seconds older than most of the class, as well as very afraid that the crowd would try and eat him.

He was done speaking quickly enough, though, and a soft murmur fell over the crowd between the speakers.

Larke leaned over to Dinah, a sideways smile playing across his face as he whispered, “If that guy can survive the first day, I think we’ll be just fine.” At the sound of the door opening and a new student entering, Larke turned and gave a slight nod and wave to the new girl in case she looked over.

And then there was someone else speaking.

Larke’s attention was jarred forward by the sudden, demanding tone— Professor Draivess Ulftern. Tall. German. Probably suffered impaired walking ability from the stick lodged up his ass. Also apparently had some weird fetish for intimidating young teenagers.

And teaching a class Larke was in.

Gross.

Larke leaned over to Dinah again as the man took his seat, though with a good bit more caution to be sure his gaze stayed trained forward. “What d’you think he’s compensating for, now?” he asked, all the while watching to be sure the professor in question was not watching him.

As the combat instructor stood to speak, Larke’s interest once again waned. “Blah blah, danger. Blah blah, listen to me. Something something, I’m from Ireland.”

By the time Professor Moore was up, Larke was just hoping they would cut to the useful information. His mouth twisted into a wry line at the Necromancer’s adamancy in discouraging promiscuity— It was high school, for goodness sake. Of course there would be scandal and debauchery; it’s not like the Council could have expected much different when they crammed a small mob of teens together into shared living quarters with limited distraction.

Larke’s face did sober at the comment about “unwanted advances,” however, and he gave a very honest nod in agreement.

Kind of made him wonder what kind of people they had let into the school, if that was honestly a concern.

Characters Present

Character Portrait: [NPC] Bartender Character Portrait: Maeve Brigid Byrne Character Portrait: Madison Lewis Lovette Character Portrait: Jessica Rose Smith Character Portrait: Draivess Ulftern Character Portrait: Minori Fukutawa
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After Professor Lovette finished speaking, Professor Schippers stood up. He seemed rather nervous, but she listened intently, since Familiar Conjuration was a subject she was excited about.

"As Professor Lovette said--thank you, by the way--all summonings must be either unsummoned or left securely in your quarters during any period except Familiars, and be properly restrained or trained so as not to disrupt other students or their property, unless you have prior permission. You're welcome to have familiars active during free time. If you do have a c - complaint about a c - classmate's or roommate's familiar, you're welcome to speak with me during office hours to work out a c - compromise. So. Thanks."

She tuned out the next professor, whose subjects were toxins and levitation, as she wondered what her familiar would be. Could she choose? If she could choose, she'd want it to be a cat. Cats were always her favorite animals she seemed to draw to her. So warm and cuddly.

"I'm Midori, I like your mouse." She startled, then looked down. Another mouse had crawled its way into her hoodie. She picked up the mouse and put it on her knee so that the other girl could pet it.

"Thanks for the pastry, but I've eaten already. I'm pretty stuffed," she whispered in between professors speeches. The next professor to take the stage spoke in a very commanding voice, and made Jesse slink back in her seat out of intimidation. They were going to practice combat? But she didn't even know any magic! Surely they wouldn't be starting to fight the first day, right? She took a gulp as the woman finished speaking. She thought of taking her offer of filling out a form, with the excuse that she was informed she was a wizard today. Then again, she was talking about firearms, so maybe there was some non-magical combat in the course as well. Not that it was much of a comfort, she was small and scrawny.

The next professor drew her attention in a different sort of way. He was calm, but cold. She was glad she had her hoodie on, because a cold draft blew through the room, making many people shiver in their seats. Professor Moore was the professor of Healing and Necromancy. Healing was her other secondary school, so she also tried to pay attention to his speech. But then he went on about sexual activity. She had never been on a date, or even been asked out on a date before. Most people her age found her strange. She doubted it was going to be a problem for her. He talked about bloodlines and the huge deal that pregnancy was. She wondered if her parents were a noble bloodline or if she was just a commoner. She made a mental note to ask them in her letter. She noticed the mouse on her leg nibbling on something and turned to look at Midori, who was smiling at the mouse enjoying the treat. She stared in surprise for a second, and then smiled. Maybe this school wasn't going to be bad after all.

"Isn't he cute?" she asked, petting the mouse's head as it ate. She decided to keep this one as a pet. There seemed to be plenty of food in the cafeteria at each meal, and she was a small girl. She could give him some of her food at breakfast time. She tried to think of a name for him, but was having a hard time coming up with one with all the thoughts swimming in her head. She all of the sudden felt really tired, despite it being morning. She hoped they didn't have too much more to do today, because she needed a nap.

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Helena Kingsley Character Portrait: Derrick Arthur Avalon Character Portrait: Roderic Alder Mayburry Montana Character Portrait: Azaziel Crowley Character Portrait: Rei Farran Character Portrait: Damien Moore
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Montana took his seat without further incident, his ankle was propped lengthwise an inch up from his knee. His hands lay clasped in his laps.
Overall his demeanor was relaxed, but the picture he painted only described what went on above the surface.

He nodded to the younger Schippers, but didn't make any further introduction. He would of course, introduce himself properly to the two younger teachers. After the extensive background checks he had done on all three it would be rude not to.

The German and he had sparse dealings together in decades past. His speech indicated that little, if anything had changed since they last spoke. Introspectively Montana knew the same was true for himself.

Regardless, the speeches before his had been equal parts intimidating and inspiring. Endearing even, on the part of the younger Schippers. Montana had no doubts that more then a few students felt at ease. Oren's speech lead into one of their younger teachers, who seemed to be at slight loss after echoing some words of encouragement.

"Thank you Professor Avalon." Montana stood slowly, gently pushing the creases out of his Euro cut suit. Before he moved to the podium, he noted, with muted amusement, the confused looks on the student body. Quite the statement from Mr. Avalon.

As expected.

"Good Morning assembled students, representatives of your families and our future generation."

His voice was projected to the far corners of the room, lightly touched with the British Isles.

"You may refer to me as Lecturer Montana. I am your defense and tracking contractor. The particulars of the courses I teach are for the ears of my pupils only. Should they feel inclined to share them with you, they are free to do so."

"To the rest of the student body, I extend the invitation to approach me for aid in the areas you believe me capable."

Montana paused, briefly scanning the assembly. While he'd be a fool to believe he has everyone's attention, they certainly had his. He leaned forward on the podium, grasping the wood on either side of him.

"Around this school is a force field, maintained and monitored at all times by entities within these halls."

"Any tampering with these force fields is a level five offense."

"My background, and magical expertise has endowed upon me a practical set of skills."

"In the high of night, cover of dusk, beneath the sun or during its rise, if you believe you can attempt to breach its integrity without my knowledge, I assure you."

"I will find you."

"Thank you."

With that Montana stepped away from the podium, briefly nodded his head, and returned to his seat.

-------------

"They have a certain...moxie. About them. Most of them anyway. Those two look a little soft around the edges...though one looks a little more malleable then the other one. Like some kind of....magnetic paste...yes...."

"You know?"

To Azaziel it didn't matter much who he had just said that to, as, in his opinion, people were largely replaceable when it came down to talking /at/ them. He understood most people just kind of stood there when you were talking at them. Nodding politely or just not paying attention at all.

Like props on the stage of life. Just...breathing ones.

It just so happened the person he spoke to was Helena Kingsley.

"If we both stand here together it looks a bit less weird, you feel me."

Azaziel turned his shifting eyes back to the podium, anticipating much, but most of all anticipating /his/ teachers. Necromancy, Blood Magic and Familiar summoning.

Outside of that he didn't expect very much to catch his ear, as it seemed that the disobedience had largely died down.

He didn't expect to hear a familiar name. Not that one.

Schippers.

From the moment he heard that last name, and scrutinized Toby's facial features, well...

The sardonic smile wasn't there. Nor the coldness in the eyes. He looked softer...but the resemblance was unmistakable. Something about the face everything was placed on, like a generational stamp.

Azaziel drew his collar up to his ears reflexively. He'd steer clear of that one if he could manage.

The necromancy professor was outwardly unimpressive, his demeanor something the other students would no doubt ignore. Zaze however, quite happily noted, the latent control his professor had over the spirits around him. Effortless. He was not disappointed.

"Mmm...hungry? There was some boy trying to fraternize with everyone breathing in his vicinity and it forced my attention..." Zaze looked away from the teachers for a moment, and back at the male he mentioned.

"Apparently he's still going it at it FULL FORCE ahaha, but here's a pancake from my pocket."

He pushed the quite squished, but warm fluff toward Helena.

"A bit hung up on sex here hm...hmm..weapons he said something about weapons before.."

The Schippers.

"I need to check in my 38. special then....Blood Magic?"

The malleable looking one was the Blood Magic teacher. The nervous ones were capable of anything, in Zaze's mind. Always skirting that thin line. Always near the edge.

With all these hard cases here there's no way they stuck ashen hair in for no reason.

"What do you th-"

Voice. Voice no sound? Air was leaving his lungs, and his mouth was making the appropriate shapes, but there was no sound for his efforts.

Another teacher no doubt. Fantastic power control.

The teen began to silently scream obscenities during the duration of Derrick's speech.

Fortunately, he stopped before sound was restored.

"Quite the bunch aren't they."

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dinah Fox Character Portrait: Theren Belvadeer Character Portrait: Nefertiti Anapa III Character Portrait: Maeve Brigid Byrne Character Portrait: Madison Lewis Lovette Character Portrait: Dawn Memoli
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#, as written by Hyro
Once it was his turn, Skylar, who had been waiting patiently until every teacher had gone, stepped forward now. He looked over the students, observing each of them, their reactions, their physical strengths and weaknesses, before allowing a smile to touch his lips. He had the smile of a magician, a gleam that held back tricks, secrets, and wonder. As he went to speak, his voice projected through the room at a leveled and unalarming volume.

"Greetings, students of Marchand. I hope you've all begun to settle in by now. It's almost time to wrap up this orientation, but first, allow me to introduce myself. For those of you who chose Illumination as your secondary, you will be having class with yours truly. I will, however, primarily be teaching Trickery. My name? Professor Skylar Oliver, pleased to meet you."

The man went to tip his beret and give a small, theatrical bow, then suddenly, he disappeared.

"To finish off this orientation," his voice rang out from the right side of the room now as he walked a few paces, seemingly having been there the entire time, "I'd like to elaborate on a few final rules. As we are your instructors, I would like to remind you that we are trained to help you succeed here at Marchand. And as such, I suspect we will do certain things that you won't fully understand. Whether it be freezing your food or performing false illusions, please know that we have a reason for everything we do and always have your success and education in mind."

Once again, Skylar disappeared. This time his voice rang out from the left side of the room where he now stood.

"That being said, students are not granted the same leniency over their magic as we are. You are to keep the use of magic down to a minimum while outside of class. Anyone using their magic to harass, prank, blackmail, threaten, or injure their fellow students during leisure hours will suffer severe consequences."

The professor disappeared one last time, having actually been in the back of the room throughout the entire length of his speech. He made his way through the center aisle of the room now, speaking up, "If you witness misuse of any magic, or fall victim to it, please report to one of the instructors so that we may deal with the problem. This is a very serious issue and the ill-use of any magic will not be tolerated here at Marchand. If you need any more clarification regarding what is acceptable or unacceptable magic use, be sure to ask myself or another instructor. My door is always open."

He reached the front and turned to face the students, letting off another broad smile. "Now, does anyone have any questions regarding the rules presented to you today by our faculty?"

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Maeve Brigid Byrne Character Portrait: Madison Lewis Lovette Character Portrait: Professor Oren Kovalenko Character Portrait: Jason Avalon Character Portrait: Derrick Arthur Avalon Character Portrait: Skylar Oliver
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Jason smiled over at Jasmine "Yes my father is teaching here, but I do not think it will be difficult at all. I am more worried about how the other students are going to feel about his teaching methods though, I have had a few pre-lectures and they are informative. Well informative once you get used to the teaching style that is."

He was about to say more when Percival appeared in the flesh and joined their table. Most likely joining them to ruin his pleasant conversation as usual. Other than a brief look of annoyance crossing his face and a hand twitch his displeasure was kept silent. Instead a small smile appeared on his face. "Ah Percival so glad you could join us, it seems that most of our generation will be attending the school. This is such a wonderful opportunity to get to know each other better wouldn't you agree?"

Whatever else Jason was about to say was cut short by the teachers starting to introduce themselves. Sitting up straighter in his chair Jason gave the teachers his mostly full attention. Though a few glances of disapproval were thrown Tover's way for having the gall to stand up and steal a chair in the middle of the presentation of their elders.

As the presentation concluded Jason made mental notes about each of the teachers. Professor Lovette seemed nice if a bit straight to the point.

While the younger professor, Schippers, seemed like a bit of pushover the stuttering during the presentation. His stuttering made him appear soft and weak, poor guy did not seem cut out to teach a bunch of rowdy mages.

If Schippers was soft and weak professor Ulftern was the exact opposite hard and strong, he seemed more like a jail warden than a teacher.

Next up to the bat stood professor Byrne, who seemed to think she was teaching at a military academy. Which suited Jason just fine as his fellow students could really use the disciple especially if someone was going to trust them with weapons.

Then Moore came up and gave the traditional lecture on sexual matters. He expected no less from the Beswick allied family, and was looking forward to how the traditional teacher handled things.

Kovalenko seemed in between a jailer and military trainer and overall just plain efficient if a bit cold. Taking shadow step with her was going to be hard yet rewarding.

Then Farren stood up, the second of the youngest professors who spoke for literally 30 seconds before stepping down. If Toby looked soft and weak Farren practically screamed lion food, and was probably going to get run over in a matter of days.

As his father took the stand he couldn't help but smirk as the room quieted down, it would teach those disrespectful jerks a little lesson. He wanted to see any of his fellow classmates try to cross his father, when they did he was going to bring some popcorn and laugh.

Then Montana took over with the expected threats, seriously people who were stupid enough to tamper with the force-field got what they deserved.

Last but not least stood his primary professor, Oliver, who seemed like a showman. Magicians had the best secrets so he was hoping to learn a lot of interesting tricks that could be made useful later.

As the call rang out for questions Jason remained silent and silently prayed to whatever deity was up there that Percival or Larke would not be his assigned roommates for the year. If they were he was probably going to punch and kick one of the school's training bags a lot.

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Maeve Brigid Byrne Character Portrait: Madison Lewis Lovette Character Portrait: Dawn Memoli Character Portrait: Tover Book Character Portrait: Tessa Botrelle Character Portrait: Professor Oren Kovalenko
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Tessa had slipped away to use the restroom and had slipped back into the Library at the start of the lecture, seamlessly sliding into the chair as if she had been there the whole time. As her table mates talk she offered them a small smile but did not join in, after all she knew better then to interrupt these particular professors.

At the mention of the name Schipper's she flinched, sure this wasn't that Schippers but that didn't mean she wasn't going to be scared of the man. She would give the man the benefit of the doubt since he wasn't his evil bastard of a brother. However siblings tended to share a few traits, so she was going to steer clear of him if possible.

She frowned as Ulftern spoke up, he had no room to be on such a high horse the man was a terrible solider. Most of his team had been killed in the war and rumor had it that was his fault. The way he was ordering them around now? Yeah he deserved zero respect until he earned it. So glad she wasn't taking classes with him.

As Moore spoke she moved around in her seat uncomfortably, this wasn't the sort of talk she wanted to hear right now or ever. Hopefully this wouldn't be repeated and no one would get pregnant. Also they really choose the wrong person to talk about this as it was kinda hypocritical coming from Damien 'Playboy' Moore.

Farren seemed nice? She didn't know much about the woman other than she was good with her craft.

It was so odd to see Avalon, Byrne, Kovalenko, Montana, and Lovette members of her mother's military unit standing up and trying to be normal. All of them were anything butt and each had their own special quirks. Worse of all they each spoke like they were teaching a military academy rather than that of high-school, well accept for Lovette who was nice. The only part of their speeches that really bothered her was Montana's word's about messing with the shield around the school. Hopefully he didn't take accidents as a level five offense.

As Oliver took the stage and then proceeded to move around the room with ease she couldn't help but smile, he seemed like a fun teacher. Maybe his actions earlier was his own special war quirk and he was going to be a mostly nice guy.

Finally once the teachers were done talking she turned back to her table excitedly whispering to group. "They are going to do room pairs soon I hope I get one of you. If I do that would be so much fun!"

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dinah Fox Character Portrait: Theren Belvadeer Character Portrait: Nefertiti Anapa III Character Portrait: Maeve Brigid Byrne Character Portrait: Madison Lewis Lovette Character Portrait: Dawn Memoli
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“I’m afraid that questions will have to wait for now.” Striding out of the darkness, Madison pressed a button on the side of the projector, snuffing out the steadily wavering glow and leaving the library in complete darkness (save, of course, for the spotlights of students who had been fiddling with their phones throughout the presentation). The blackout remained for a few moments as the professor groped for the switch, and, upon finding it, a soft “click” rang out before light was restored- far stronger this time around, courtesy of the cone-shaped lamps scattered around the library.


Stepping away from the mammoth of a machine, Professor Lovette’s gaze once again cast down towards the watch around his wrist, then up again in order to properly meet his coworker’s eyes. “They’ve put us on a rather tight schedule, unfortunately- and, besides,” smiling, he turned towards the collected audience, “I’m sure that our students would like to get settled as soon as possible above anything else, if their restlessness is any indication.” Hands clasped, Madison strode to the library door, where he once again turned to face the gathering of teenagers- some who were just creeping out of childhood, faces still fresh and open, others with a brand new powdering of stubble across their jawline. All young in their own ways, and many sporting various shades of displeasure or bewilderment.


“Before we show you all to your dorms, however, we will take some time to properly show you around Marchand. While we are walking, feel free to ask Professor Farran about any of the blood wards scattered around the building- and thank you for your very gracious offer, Professor Farran- or any of us regarding any questions you may have in regards to the rules or such. We will be more than happy to respond.”


While that wasn’t entirely true, per se, the offer stood regardless.


After waiting for the crowd to once more gather their things and prepare to follow, Madison gave a slight nod to himself and stepped out, making his way down the hall. The corridor wasn’t really all too much to speak about- there was a bulletin board with a few flyers already tacked onto the cork; a trash can painted with stars and planets in a replication of space; posters with a variety of cheerful, encouraging messages; vending machines and water fountains. All things one would find in a “typical” school, and nothing particularly noteworthy. Nevertheless, Madison was not silent, chattering pleasantly as the group travelled.


“As most of you have already been to the office and cafeteria, I won’t bother reintroducing them to you- however, I would like to point out to those unaware that the office also serves as the location for the infirmary. In the event that anyone is injured, becomes sick, or anything of the sort, you are to report there as soon as you can, so our nurse can give you proper treatment. If, for any reason, the nurse is unavailable
” Upon reaching an intersection in the hall, Madison paused, tapped his finger against his bottom lip, then smiled and ushered the students down the right path.


“Sorry about that,” he hummed. “Had to decide which side to show you all first. Anyway, as I was saying, if our nurse is unavailable, keep in mind that all professors have first aid training. In addition, three of us- Professor Moore, Schippers, and myself- are accomplished Healers, so you may go to any of us for medical assistance if necessary.”


By the time he had finished speaking, Madison had led the little procession to a set of double doors, made from what seemed to be carefully polished mahogany. While it was difficult to properly see out to the other side, what with the glass being glazed over, it was still quite clear that it led outside.


“This is one of my favorite parts of campus.” Face bright with unrestrained eagerness, Madison swung both doors wide open and stepped out, moving to the side to allow the students a full view. “Welcome,” he said, “to the West Wing.”


The world beyond the door had been ripped straight out of a fairy tale, where the air was heavy with warmth and honeysuckle, and flowers were woven in thick lavender curtains. Directly outside was a covered wooden (this one being carved from walnut. It seemed that the Marchand builders had loved adding a more rustic feel to things) walkway, around eight feet wide and stretching around the entire diameter of the courtyard- for that’s exactly what it was, a courtyard, filled with life and dotted with the occasional statue here and there. The walkway had what seemed to be a fence around its border, as well, preventing a person from leaving wherever they wanted (unless, of course, they chose to vault over the fence for whatever reason). At the center of each side, the fence opened up in gothic archways, which led to a set of stairs down.


The steps themselves led to a stone-brick pathway, which went straight to the core of the yard, and intersected with the three other trails around a classic fountain. As Madison left the walkway and onto the path, more and more details became visible. Trees were dotted along both sides of the stone, from which the curtains- a tangle of wisteria and honeysuckle, that explained the smell- could dangle freely. Between the trees were simple granite benches, and, beyond them, one could spot several flower bushes, the occasional statue dotted here and there, and, on one side, even a small pond with a few lilies.


Above the entire garden was a large glass roof.


Madison came to a halt a few feet away from the fountain, where he only stood at first, face turned up to the sun. After a moment or so, he sighed- stretching his arms high above his head, then letting them fall back to his sides.


“Lovely day, too,” he noted. “I think we should take that as a good sign.” The Professor took another long, leisurely breath, then, contended, gestured to one side of the courtyard. “In the West Wing, you’ll be able to find the classrooms of Professors Moore, Schippers, Ulftern, Montana, and Oliver. The East Wing- which I will show you after touring the first floor of the gym- is where you can find the classes of Professor Kovalenko, Farran, myself, and Avalon. Professor Byrne teaches her courses in the school gymnasium, and you will find Professor Kovalenko teaching her Aquamancy courses there as well.” Madison paused, then added, “Well, more specifically, at the pool within the gymnasium. But we’ll get to that shortly.”


With a clap of his hands, the Pyromancer was off once again- heels pat-pattering along the flat stone, then the wood of the walkway, then stilling altogether as another door was swung open, kicking off the next part of the tour.


Compared with the compact nature of the library, and the detail put into the courtyard, the gymnasium seemed almost bleak in its openness. The walls were empty of any decor- save a few water fountains jutting out from the brick- and the floor was sterile, freshly waxed tile, with a few bright blue strips of tape marking certain positions and areas around the room.


“All of the equipment is put away for now,” Madison explained. “However, once classes begin, I assure you that there will be plenty more than there is now. To the left is the boy’s locker room, and the right is the girl’s. That door leads to storage, and the one over to the side leads to the East Wing.”


His hand lifted, pointing up to a balcony that, unlike the library’s before it, was not suspended. Instead, it was as if someone had taken the upper half of the walls, leaving a chunk that just so happened to also serve as a convenient passage about the gym. Like the library, however, it was lined with fence- metal instead of wood, but a fence nonetheless. Stairs led up to the opposing sides, then vanished high into the roof, tucked under the palate of some great creature’s maw.


“From the stairs, you can reach the common room, where you will be spending most of your time outside of class. The pool is on the roof, so we’ll take a look at that first to save time. Oh- but before we do, however
” Brushing off his blouse, Madison opened the next door- he had migrated some time during his little point-around- and peered outside. Unlike last time, he didn’t stamp outside, but it was still clear enough from a look that the East Wing was, while not identical, was fairly similar to the West in design. Instead of a stone path, however, it was completely brick. The trees were red maple, the benches were wood, and, filling the courtyard with their brilliant warmth, were hundreds of tulips the color of fire. They nodded lazily in the autumn breeze, politely greeting the new guests with the uttermost courtesy. Madison held the door open for a few minutes, allowing the students to get a proper look, before slowly pushing it back into place


“Let’s keep going,” Madison said gently.


The pool was in the same shape as the gymnasium itself- empty, save for the large pool in the middle, set up with markers at different points to mark depth, a few lights, and the safety equipment found in every pool in the world. What made up for the absence, however, was what could be considered the roof of the roof. Where the walls ended, glass began- thick, reinforced sheets that allowed you a magnificent view of the sky above. Madison preferred the place at night, himself, but said nothing about it as he started to usher the students back down the stairs. Couldn’t be planting any ideas in their heads, after all.


Then came the common room.


It was obvious that when the room was originally conceived, it was intended to be just as organized as the library was, the way the courtyards were- the rest of the building, really, that matter. The wallpaper was a deep, easy-on-the-eyes green, the floor a rich cherrywood. However, anything after that point is where any pretense of sanity left the room, hightailing it better pastures somewhere else.


A kinder person would call the decor charming.


Someone less so would call it hard on the eyes.


An interior decorator would have a heart attack on the spot three steps into the room.


No matter which category one fell into, it was obvious that the furniture didn’t quite sit well with itself. It clashed horribly in style and texture, quality and age. A plaque fastened to the nearest wall offered some kind of explanation for this atrocity.


“We here at Marchand give our sincere thanks
For the generous funding and donations
Provided by the families listed below.”

From there on, if one was well-versed enough in the identities of magical families- even a few- one could accurately place a name to the pieces, fitting together like some Frankenstein puzzle game. There was a set of furniture made from genuine animal fur and sinew, animal skulls glaring down at whoever dared to go near them, pelt rugs, and several tapestries bearing what appeared to be a sky wolf brawling a group of bears below- all of which were a dead ringer for the Norrevinters. There was a substantial amount of brand new luxury goods, ranging from couches that seemed far too expensive to even look at the wrong way, to a set of wall-mounted televisions, and even a few game systems. Sterlings, most likely. While the other families weren’t at all short on funds, the casual spending of donations told quite a bit.


There was a tired looking, recently stitched couch that smelled strongly of death and Febreeze, along with a scuffed up mini-table with a shrouded figurine of a woman sat upon it (a woman whose skull was bared, painted and grinning). Ciervos. A set of lap desks stacked up in the corner- Avalons- ,a set of leather seats, and a few polished tables and shelves. All of Italian make. Memoli. A pine writing desk and chair from the Pelacours, a pure white couch from the Moores. Another tapestry from the Magnaventus, starring numerous dead lineages.


The names went on and on, and with them, the differences in assortment. Notably, the Sterling and Norrevinter styles appeared to be the most numerous within the room, as if the families had gotten into a kind of quarrel over who could donate the most- which, given their histories together, didn’t seem all that out of place. It was unclear who won, exactly, but it seemed that that was the biggest source of the conflict in design.


“The common room,” Madison announced. “As I mentioned earlier, this is the area where you will be spending most of your time outside of class. You are welcome to use any object here during your free time, but please be careful with them. Everything here was donated to us, and it would be disrespectful to the families if you took their gifts for granted.” He gave a brief pause, allowing the words to properly sink in. The silence lasted for a few moments before he broke out in another smile, swiped a remote from the nearby table, and powered on one of the TVs. Upon the screen was “DORM INFORMATION” in bright font, followed by a list of names, and a variety of numbers to go along with them.


“As you might have guessed, the numbers mark the dorms you will be staying in throughout the semester. The name- or names, in a few cases- are your roommates. I would suggest that you get well-acquainted with them during your time here.


“The dorms are also marked by your families’ crest, but in the case you are unable to find where you are staying, please ask one of us- it’s our job to help you, after all.” Smile widening, Madison replaced the remote, and moved to the center of the room. “You’ll find the entrance to the girl’s dorms on the right, and the boy’s on the left, much like in the gymnasium. With that in mind,” Madison abruptly pulled a sheet of fabric from the wall, revealing lines of keys pinned beneath.


“Go get yourselves settled, everyone. Unpack, meet your roommates. We’ll come get you when it’s time for lunch.”

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Dinah Fox Character Portrait: Theren Belvadeer Character Portrait: Nefertiti Anapa III Character Portrait: Maeve Brigid Byrne Character Portrait: Madison Lewis Lovette Character Portrait: Dawn Memoli
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"I'm Minori. Thank you for the food" The “you’re welcome” Tover thought of didn’t slip out. Thrown off by the small grin before Minori quickly wrapped her arms around him in a brief hug. "Thank you," she’d whispered before letting go. His automatic responses had left his lips like clockwork, but this, this was a wrench in the gears of the factory and the foreman didn’t know what to do.

He’d gotten as far as getting the heads up her name was Minori, and that he’d made a good call with being inviting. The sudden hug made his world spin and twist, still feeling the lingering sensation of pressure that tingled on his skin after she’d let go and devoured the avenue of opportunity he’d provided her.

It wasn’t a bad feeling.

He didn’t mind this.

The feeling of a thousand eyes all stabbing him in the back? He minded that. With a clench of the hands, Tover went straight to tie-fidgeting and straightening up into a half turn so his shoulder was aimed at the speaker. His eyes couldn’t help but take the moment to flicker to Minori. She’d gotten settled. End of the Line. Now what was this lumbering mountain of German-accented bricks all about?

It was so difficult to see in this half-light, eyes forced to squint. Sure you could see some, but details were made entirely of backlit grey. That was more than enough to catch the more-important-than-thou gait, strut, and stance. Tone? What? What was with that sudden change in general feel in the air?

You didn’t need to be an Aeromancer to feel that the vibe just got noosed. Mr. Lovette spoke with a kindness and softhearted intelligence. Someone you’d trust to vent your frustrations and bothers to. Schippers was a substitute teacher getting his first real chance at a real job. Or at least that’s what it felt like. General demeanor said smart cookie. Definitely still in the ‘Teacher’ bracket.

Not this.

What the fuck was this.

”Draivess Ulftern,”
Okay. An introduction. Why the iron tone? Something felt weird here.
”Levitation or Poisons? You are mine.”

If there was a way to make an enemy out of Tover. Telling him his agency and will didn’t matter was a surefire way to do it. There was only one person who could step on him like that, and he wasn’t interested in a repeat performance.
A breath was taken. Maybe not what was meant?
The first inklings of discomfort had settled in, a frown plastered on his brows and general expression. The inkling went to blaring dangernoodles when he got leered at straight on, after which the sense of discomfort flatout altered to agitation.
“I expect full respect to be given”
Well brick house over there was going to have to deal with being terribly disappointed, because that’s not how respect works, and outright demanding it was not the way to foster it. It was however, definitely the way to.. what.. holdon. Did I hear that right?”

”And absolutely unmerciful.”
Tover’s face went from solidly agitated to defiantly shocked. Threats? Why the hell are *Teachers * threatening students over something.. so..so..
No. It wasn’t just the line delivered. It had been –How- it was delivered. With a sense of absoluteness and cemented rigidity a competent teacher would never develop built right into the words. There was no wiggle room. No room for opinion, argument, or growth. There was Ulftern’s Will, or there was nobody.

Tover felt cold. Unwanted and cold. Not that it was cold, just that the pleasant warm fuzz from earlier has just been eaten away. He hadn’t been wrong, and the little hope that he might have been iced over and felt crushed under a boot.

Conclusions on initial reactions came swift. Unless that thing calling itself a teacher proved to be otherwise, he wanted nothing to do with that guy. Anything or anyone that desired to step on his will with that kind of absolute intensity, deserved only his hate. He’d figure Telekinesis out himself if there was no other teacher.

He needed to sit.
Pointless.
He coulden’t move, much less get back to his table.
Emotions were rooting him to the spot. Internal pangs and tingles of sadness, anger, restraint, and the inability to do that last one burdening his heart and his head. There was only standing there, and watching, and hope that had been an anomaly.

-

"Captain Maeve Brigid Byrne"

Jesus fucking Christ.

Tover sat on the God-Damn luggage. Emotions were still spilling over the floor in his head trying to scrape all the papers they spilled off the floor. Then quietly receded when dread slunk its fingers around the corner of the main hallway.
The same introduction style, but this one was “Captain.”

"I'll be your instructor for combat and Aeromancy, so every one of you in this room will be seeing me for at least one course.

Oh dear god.
Tover wasn’t religious. Atleast. Not yet? But was the Majority of the staff here Military? The pattern became a possibility with how this turn of events suddenly played out. Also another one with a strong accent. Irish? Irish. The hair alone had enough grit in it to fell a small tree.

He’d be seeing her at minimum Twice. At least she didn’t outright demand respect, just a title and that she was.. well. Captain behavior. The allowance of a way to wiggle out was unexpected. The rest wasn’t as much as a shock after the prior presenter. Obviously not in the teacher bracket, and she dealt with his useless primary to boot? The sarcasm oozed out of his voice.

Grand.

-
“I’m Damien Moore.”
“I will be teaching Necromancy and Healing.”

Tover didn’t know rainbows could give birth. Apparently he was wrong. Moore’s way of being didn’t actually bother him, rather what kept being said in this presentation was. This was starting to feel like oppression. Even if they didn’t mean it the way he heard it, it was My way My way My way. I demand your respect, I demand your attention, I demand you not put your fingers into the puddle and cause trouble.

He’d been interested in healing before. He was considering not going with the idea of shadow step. He didn’t know much about some of the secondaries, so aside from levitation they were fairly fluid.

He wanted to fly, after all.

The enthusiastic and boisterous welcome felt like a dismissal more than an actual welcome. There was no cape fancy enough to twirl or swirl dramatically that did not make him feel unwelcome and unwanted.

Don’t mix bloodlines?
Then you shouldn’t have put them all together.
It was moot. He was just agitated and venting at nothing. He hadn’t even though of significant others or anything of the sort until that uncomfterable-ass speech by the flamboyancomancer.

-

Tov shoved off the luggage and got up after rubbing fingers over his temples some. He had a headache. The feeling of being rooted was fading, now if ever was a good time. Atleast until the cafeteria frostguard stabbed him with a mental icicle.

"Are you all quite finished talking and handing out food?

Oh Come on.

Tover didn’t think his stomach could sink much lower. Not one, but two daggers in his back just because he didn’t wanted someone to feel unwelcome. What kind of garbage school was thi
 Oh. Some gears turned.

Not a school?

The thought lingered as Kovalenko spoke her due. On top of that, she taught SS? So none of the things he was actually interested in learning was being taught with someone able to see him as a person. A bit of a harsh initial judgment, but Tov wasn’t feeling the best right now.

Wall and Lock wards.
Magic security.
Sure.
Are we even surprised at this point.

The sudden twist to different professor was unexpected.

Oh it was the one with similar-looking hair. A Professor Farran. Who.. sounded like it walked off the exact same boat Mr. Schippers had. A temp that became a full hire? Teacher bracket. Didn’t Iron-Fist unlike the other few. Blood Magic was several degrees of not his thing. About on the same level on necromancy for things he wanted to keep at arms length.

-

Avalon was up next. Kept it cold and quick for a man who taught history. MWI had some interesting notes to it, but he didn’t think it was going to be for him. Had it just been really really quiet?

Survival needs trumped emotional discord when everyone in the vicinity just up and completely changed patterns. Suddenly there was movement, action, panicked faces. Why no sound. Nobody was making sound. No. Nothing was making sound. Where did.. Kovalenko? No. Although she set the precedent for teachers using mass-scale abilities to prove a point.
Kov. Cold. Aquamancy.
Lovette. Warm. Pyro.
Avalon. Silence. Trickery?
Nothing else he knew of could tamper with sense data.

Oh he hated it. He hated it bad.
Reliable information was a prized and touchy subject. At the same time, the ability to deny it to others was a delicious little cookie that he wanted access to. Alas. Useless Aeromancy was his poison. At least he’d Fly one day.

Sound returned. Tov had stood there with hands in his pockets. Looking around not bothering to talk or try and test it. Evidence aplenty. Plus he had some personal discomforts keeping him preoccupied. The threat was rather moot. It wasn’t the point.
Avalon was another non-teacher with the ‘my way or the high’ way vibe. Another example of strong-arming, another nail in the coffin.

Tov had a headache.

He was getting tired.

Not physically tired.

Willpower tired. It was all just too much of the same from the place he wanted nothing to do with, sans military. All that happened is a change of flavor.

Another ‘teacher’ took stand.

-

Oh. Janitor in a suit man. Sure. Could not be much worse than the par the field had set.
There had been no inspiring speeches so far, maybe he’d be pleasantly surprised.

Had there even been a shining light yet? No, forget shiny light. A candle. Something. An illuminant source of ‘it’s not as bad as it looks’ to keep holding onto.

Madison.
There was Madison.

The introduction was cut and dry enough. But of course for what purpose do hopes exist aside to be shattered. The pattern holds and actual despair set in at the words.
"Around this school is a force field, maintained and monitored at all times by entities within these halls."
"Any tampering with these force fields is a level five offense."

Cage.
They put everyone in a cage.
A cage with locked doors, barred hallways, strict militant lecturers and teachers, a school schedule with not a single common teaching topic on the list, where everything done not according to the jailors will was a punishable offense. What was it that had been said earlier?
”And absolutely unmerciful.”

Yeah. That.

Tover felt like misery.

This was a Military Academy or a Jail. Or Both. This wasn’t freedom. This was a concentration camp with a friendly name, shiny lights, and a cutesy reason for people to get tossed here. Aside from the other students he’d met this place was a copy of what he was trying to get away from.

His heart sank and eyes dulled. Fingertips buzzed as if his digits had fallen asleep. The feeling wormed along his arms and down his spine.

Another teacher. The show wasn’t done.
He was vague aware of his butt sinking back onto the luggage. When’d he get back here? Oh who cared.

-

Right. The asshat at breakfast. Already didn’t like h..where did he go. The theatrics were entirely unappreciated after that tirade of tyranny. Tover was on a mental edge and this was pushing his feet off. Avalon had made his brain ring with panic but this was just a bitch move.
You are to keep the use of magic down to a minimum while outside of class.
"If you witness misuse of any magic, or fall victim to it.”

Wow. He knew he disliked the guy, now he just had more reasons as Skylar vanished and reappeared in differing areas. Completely throwing off his already run ragged sense perception. Frenchie was doing exactly what he was telling the students not to do.
Why? Aside from rubbing the salt in. Professor Oliver vanished again.
Quit. Doing. That.

A pang of pain his the side of the front of Tov’s head. He didn’t want to be here anymore. His perception had faded, his head wasn’t dealing well with the slew of misinformation and he needed sleep. So. So much sleep to get over the utter cascade of new things that happened today.

It didn’t add up and his head was reeling. Was most of the staff military? Because he’d met military war-veteran teachers and they were nothing like this. What a member of his own family had said on the matter was still burned and hard-coded in his head, and that view was currently being challenged.

A war vet does not go "I own you, Pipe down, STFU and listen to me you dumb little babies."
A war vet goes "You are what my friends died to protect. You are what I suffered to keep alive. Your eyes are innocent and shiny and I hope to god I can do whatever it takes to keep them that way and get you ready for what's to come in a fashion that doesn't put you through the hell I had to go through. Because I wish that on no-one, and never will I ever treat you like anything less than the hope of my universe. I'm going to be tough on you. But I don't give a damn that I don't know you because asfar as I'm concerned the children of my fellows became my children too. Because they talked about how much they loved their kids, and then they died protecting them. I refuse to lose my humanity and not see that through for them, that is not only the least I can do, My heart wouldn't forgive me if I didn't see this through. The war is over, by -MY- war is not, and these kids are my redemption. I am fucked. I am broken. I have suffered. My future is gone and my Life is in shambles. I will never tell you to your face, but you are my everything."

The world just sort of.

Faded.

Madison spoke up.

The voice stood out.

The exact things she was saying were garbled, but enough of the basics got through for the general gist.

She’d asked for questions? He had them. But not the heart to go through with it right now. He just felt empty, and trapped, and cold right behind his sternum.

-

He was in the crowd during the tour of the facility. Tover looked, but didn’t see. Concentration didn’t really come back until he was face to door with the Tyto Alba family crest. An oddly simple carved nameplate was next to it, No Crest. Fox.

He’d been on autopilot most of the trip. Cyrus Fox had been the name in that list back there, he thought. It didn’t really occur to him that’s what the list had been for until he pushed the dorm door open.
Oh. Beds.

Tov just walked through, sat on one, and did the essential action of falling face first into the pillow.

They’d be summoned for lunch? Okay.
Naptime.

How are you getting through this Tov?


He didn’t much have an answer to his own question.

Did it matter if he got through it? Did others even see or feel the same thing he felt?

If they didn’t, then. Good for them to not have this bother.
If they did..

How would they get through it?
They’d need something to hold on to at the very least. Something positive.

Madison.
He mumbled into the pillow.

No, no it wasn’t going to be enough.
How does someone that feels they don’t matter get out of the hole.
You need a ladder?
Someone has to throw the ladder.
Person that throws the ladder also has to be something you want to go towards.
Something warm.
Something shiny.

I don’t matter.
But nobody else has to feel that way.
Not if I can do something about it.

What have you been doing all day tov?
You’ve been tossing ladders.
You tried something different and something new because you didn’t want things to be the way they always were.
People saw you. People categorized you.
Hell, two of the staff directly snapped at you because you were doing the very thing you believed was the right call.
Who cares if it wasn’t the choice –they- liked. It was the choice –you- are okay living with.

Make the choice that you can live with. Even if you don’t think much about the living bit right now.

There might be someone in the student body that’s a shiny light.
Someone to hold on to. Someone to see and go “I don’t got this, but he’s gonna catch me.”
I can’t take that chance and find out there is no-one.
So what are you doing Tov?

If there is nobody around to be a guiding light, I will kindle myself, and hope my dim flame brings a bright sun to bear.

If I can set the precedent, then even if I fail. Because I’m expecting to fail at so much while I’m here, as I just don’t know squat. If I can be the first push of the kindling, someone more capable will pick up the torch.

Get up Tov.
Get. Up.
Not from the bed.

You can’t take care of you as you are now.
You need help.
Be someone worth helping.

Just be you.
You can do this.

Light that torch.

Tover sat up after having ground his face amply into the pillow. If his eyes had gotten wet at all, the evidence would have been wiped. He took a stern, deep breath. Then two. Then Three.

His headache was still present. He still felt awful.
Day wasn’t over. More to do.


I have a roommate to meet.