Guilds Role-Play

It is a beautiful day, around three in the afternoon, the whole of the region suffering from rather strong winds. It is warm and sunny outside, until the wind blows when it is somewhat chilly. The clouds float on by with the wind's direction, giving the blue sky a bit of variation in design. The towns and cities bustle with busy citizens, Guild Hall doors open and close as business concludes and begins for various members and of course, the streets and halls are also busy with chatter--as it would seem that although things are the same today as they would be on any other day, there is one thing that every living person has in common today.

Everyone that is willing to talk about it seems to have this feeling...a feeling of wrongness. Today feels different, somehow, in some way, though no one is certain as to why this is so. Some are mildly worried, others simply casting it off as just a weird phase. Many have approached the Guilds that are local to them, inquiring if anything can be done it. This has led everyone to realize that even magic casters have felt these odd feelings in their guts, though they seem not to know of its cause or how to make the feeling go away. Everyone has been uneasy since they woke from their beds this morning, but they day still continues on, as if the global feeling did not exist...

Darius Ferapoint is crouched down below behind some crates that are carefully placed at the front of an alley on the corner of a Baker's shop. As he is quite tall at six feet and his athletic build can be a bit of a hindrance, he is quite uncomfortable. It does not help that he and his crouch-mates are getting many odd stares, but when he flashes up the tattoo on the back of his left hand, many look away with realization and understanding.

The bright sky and sun do not help his position, his eyes squinted from the sun's bright light with distaste as he lifts his head briefly to look over the crates and down the dark, shaded alley to see what appears to be a graffiti covered, brick wall. The alley is very wide, much wider than most and covered in a bunch of debris and litter from people randomly throwing things they no longer want into the space. Darius wonders if their targets simply placed it all there so that no one could just randomly step in and ruin their secret hideout. So far, nothing new has happened and no one has showed...but they've only been here waiting for about twenty minutes. He lowers his head again, looking to his three companions with a shake of his head. Nothing yet.

He whispers. "Okay, so I'm ready to grade how you three perform on this one--I won't go easy on any of you. Just remember that we cannot, under any circumstances, let these nearby buildings get destroyed while you are dealing with these guys. Are we clear?"


Harima and Nymeria have Sylmeria trapped in a small room, which happens to be a storage room within the Blazing Swords Guild Hall. Nymeria is standing next to Harima, who looks quite stoic and blank-faced towards Sylmeria, who looks unpleasantly upset. Along the exit, three, floating weapons stand erect with their blades pointing down towards the floor. Harima can usually handle Syl on his own, but he asked for a little back up this time, considering the woman's temper. He will not bend today--he is determined not to.

The room is approximately eight by eight by twelve feet in size, though he still feels quite cramped, considering all of the shelves and boxes within the room. He has two long swords and a scimitar here to greet Syl with no promise of her being able to greet--keeping them there was proving to be quite taxing over longer periods of time, unfortunately.

"All you have to do is stand near a blade, Syl." Harima says calmly. "Nym and I will be sure that nothing happens to you or around you. You can trust us. Can't she, Nym?"


As the lovely Clementina finishes her dance upon the stage, many women and men clap from their seats politely, smiling with satisfaction from the entertainment. The small, white tables that are set up seem to stand out more than the faces do, but when one has a spotlight on them, looking out at the crowd has always seems difficult. As usual, when the dance is over and the dancer leaves the stage, the manager of the Taverness gives her several pieces of paper, all offering her the chance to dine with them them. Some of them are couples, most are men that are here alone, and this time, a most interesting invitation finds its way into the bunch. A noblewoman, here alone. That is rare.

Usually, the dancer is known to decline all politely through the manager and leave, but he waits for her response, as always, to see if she shall be taking a short break with any of the audience or taking her usual leave through the back of the building behind the stage. He compliments this day's afternoon performance as he gives her time to look through each of the invitations at her own pace. He is in a rather good mood, indicating that he has made quite a sum of cash today.



The rich, fashionable, young man leans forward on his cane, still refusing to sit down before Char's desk. Technically--it is Rodimus' desk, but the Guild Masters are all away today, so it is of no surprise that Char will have to be handling this man on his own. He showed up unannounced, waltzing in as if he owned the place. It is Guild Hall regulations for all guilds that if you are not a member, you must request permission to enter, as well as have an escort, but this man did not seem to care about the rules.

"This man--this Janos." The man says, and he is now repeating himself, "I requested a dozen swords, but he is still not finished! It has been two days. I thought it only took a few hours, considering your Guild has all of the materials prepared--"

"Sir, you need to have an escort next time." A guild member interrupts without any desire to remain polite the rude man while looking apologetically at Char. "...uh, should I fetch Janos for you, Master Hayley?"



Though so many of the Quinsenterra Guild members know so little of Ruoh, as well as see so little of him, none are surprised to see him within the Guild Hall today, considering that Lady Aurella De Gant is away with the other Guild Masters. He is within the main floor, playing a white grand piano, so pristine as to match his hair and clothing. Most of his clothes are black and white, though he does have a pale, pink scarf about his neck to add a bit of color as he plays delicate, classical music from the large instrument in his proper posture.

Many guests are within the Guild Hall, though much less, considering most of the guests are usually there on account of the Lady herself. Ruoh is not as well known, so it is of no surprise that he should find himself entertaining less guests. He had arrived late in the night yesterday evening, upon the Guild Master's request, and has said nothing to any of the Guild's members as of yet. Mostly, he has simply played the piano and watched those around him with his eery, golden eyes. It would be safe to say that a lot of his fellow members are steering clear of him, unsure of what to say or do.

He has just recently, however, requested the presence of one "Nadia Pardeva" by messenger while continuing his performance. When the song is finally completed, many of the ladies and gentleman applaud him politely as he takes a swift bow with a stoic, stone-like expression. He makes his way to the Guild Master's office afterwards, requesting for a replacement performer on his way out. He does not wait for a new performance to begin before making his graceful exit.



The Guild is just on the lake's surface, held up by many structures that many have been told were placed in magically. Rumors are just rumors, however, and the only one that seems willing to discuss how the place was put together is Mia, usually, and that woman changes the tale every single time that she tells it. Considering her absence today, man of the Valoria Guild members are doing today something that they usually aren't seen doing...sitting in the main hall, chatting it up with some nice, basic alcohol. Sure, any of them relax from time to time, but never in this large in numbers.

Nonetheless, this hardly halts Guild Business as a young man requests to enter the Guild Hall and to see its Guild Master. The man is notified, of course, that the Guild Master is not present today and that her Trustee is here to handle whatever needs he may have. He says that this is perfectly acceptable and asks to be escorted to see the man. The Guild members smiles and asks the main to wait there at the entrance to the building, or to sit within the main hall at the many tables where the members were sitting and chattering about.

"I'll see if Jacobi can see you." The member named Ferran says to the guest. "We will make sure to get you the help you need--thank you for your patience!"

"Thank you very much." The Gentleman says politely. "I'm a patient man; I don't mind waiting."



Within the ruins of the Shazeer culture, pillars still managed to stand high, though most were broken. Most of the designs that had been carved and painted upon them were faded from time's decay, but the archaeologists that were here made sure to preserve what they could. The Shazeer people were believed to be very superstitious--they kept drawings, totems, statues, and other such structures and paintings of their Gods and Deities to keep them safe and to ward from certain enemies.

Miriam is seated at the Guild Master's desk, staring through the eyes of one of the Guild members that have the magical ability to share his sight. She watches as he follows Ryla and Sheridan through the dark tunnels and doorways that were slowly falling apart. There was no immediate threat, of course--they made sure to reinforce the buried ruins with careful magic and the like to be sure no one would be harmed during the investigation. Oh, what she would do to be there! Of course Rex would pick today, of all days, to be gone from the Guild. It's a miserable day.

Finally, they make it to the final room--the one that Miriam saw in her vision. They look about and inspect the room, looking for the signs of the hidden door that Miriam predicted to be there. She really, really, really wants to be there, just thinking about being so far away from this discovery digs into her gut as she fidgets impatiently in her seat.

"Do you see it, Ryla? Sheridan?" Miriam asks impatiently. Of course she knows these things take time and they did just get into the room, but she just cannot hold on to this anxiousness. They have wanted to know more about the Shazeer people for a long time. When she speaks, the man who's sharing her vision repeats her words. "...Guys?"



The little boy was playing his flute in one of the City's many main squares, a small hat seated before him to collect coin. Mostly, it was silver and copper, but he occasionally peeked in between songs and found a gold or two. That pleased him and he smiled just a little before picking up his flute again to continue his lovely, playful play underneath the bright sun. He was wearing commoner's clothing, but the look of his hands appeared as though the boy has never done any form of hard labor. He's also brilliantly clean for the social class, including his clothing, but most will not take notice of such little details.

When an older gentleman sits next to the small boy as he plays his flute, the boy ignores his presence as he continues his song on the small, simple flute that rests at his lips. The man moves from side to side with the music, tapping his foot with pleasure from the tone for a while before placing a few silver pieces into that hat and making his leave. The boy stops playing all together, however, when Lark enters the square. The kid bows to him and smiles brightly, holding up his hat of coins as if to brag.

"Lookit!" The boy says in a familiar, high pitched tone.

[ATTN: Lockette, Seere, Darius]
--Alleyway in Gates Town; UMS Border Territory--

Fuyu crouched behind the crates with the others. He was bothered by the heat of the sun, as well as the uneasy feeling he'd woken up with that morning, but he didn't let it show. He felt silly sitting behind the crates as absolutely nothing had happened in the past twenty minutes, but sometimes these things were waiting games.

Darius looked out into the alley, then shook his head at them. He told them he wouldn't grade them easily, and not to destroy anything, to which Fuyu simply replied, "Got it." He didn't usually cause much collateral damage if he could help it, and he didn't expect to be judged any differently.

He ran his hand through his hair and continued waiting patiently.

Kaimele

{ATTN: Open}
--The Taverness Reaches Club; Terrenia City--

Clementina bows and acknowledges the applause from the audience. She loves to dance and to see her audience enjoy themselves. It does help with the feeling she's had since this morning. She only hopes they are as happy as she is. She goes backstage to the small room given to performers to change before and after the shows.

She has never used the rooms for that purpose though. She always arrives and leaves as Clementina. She cherishes the anonymity that the stage persona gives her. So far no one had figured out that Kaimele and Clementina are one in the same.

Clementina sits on the chair in front of a small vanity with a mirror. Currently her personal items are on the vanity. There is a bag with a change of clothes next to it. She doesn't have to wait too long before hearing the familiar knock. “You may enter.” He gives her the slips of paper with invitations. Each of them with the same invitation in different manners. She looks through them returning the ones from the obvious sex depraved so called gentleman. However one captures her attention.

She is a very prominent woman. Kaimele knows her very well as she does some business with her. Not directly mind you, but indirectly. Slowly the bad feeling creeps up again. What is she doing here? Kaimele picked this tavern purposefully. It is a happy medium above the trashy pubs and not classy enough for the nobility.

He stands there impatiently as she stares at the noblewoman's card. She ponders for a moment knowing she has to get back home to help her grandmother. However she is curious why she would seek Clementina out. “I think I will meet up with her. May you please ask her if she wants me to join her, or if she would be comfortable meeting somewhere else?”



Jacobi

{ATTN: Ferran}
--Valoria Guild Hall; Chanda Lake--

Jacobi is sitting at the bar tilting a glass of ale back. He just got done with a round on the mat with a newer recruit. Poor kid is sitting behind him still scared. After all these years, one would think the kids would know not to cocky around him. He actually likes the new kids, most of them don't mind his instruction. The cocky ones are put in their place.

He feels Ferran's presence before seeing him. He spins on the stool and can tell by the look on Ferran's face there is some business to attend too. Ugh this is why he is only a trustee and hates when Mia is gone. “Fine give me a few moments and bring him to the office.” Jacobi stands and finishes off the ale in one swig. He slaps down some coins and leave the bar. He goes into Mia's office and sits down behind the desk. At least Mia has sturdy furniture.

[ATTN: Ruoh]
--Quinsenterra Guild Hall; Gir'ratown--

Nadia was sitting at the vanity table in her room in the guild hall when she heard the knock at her door. The messenger was very polite when she answered, her hair still a mess cascading about her shoulders; Allas Ruoh requested to see her in the Guild Master's office, at her earliest convenience.

She thanked the man and turned back to the mirror, taking the time to pull up her hair and pin it. Nadia stared at herself in the mirror a moment, taking in a deep breath as she straightened her shoulders. Allas Ruoh was Quinsenterra's enigma; not around very much, always away on missions for Lady Aurella. She wasn't... entirely sure what to think of this summons.

Still, serene as ever she swept from her room out into the hall. There were rooms available for all guild members, should they want them, but Nadia was one of the few who really took advantage of that regularly - most members were quite wealthy and had their own homes to return to.

She made her way to the Guild Master's office, her heels clicking on the floor as she stopped by the door and knocked politely.

[ATTN: Lockette, Fuyu, Darius]
--Alleyway in Gates Town; UMS Border Territory--

Seere was starting to get impatient as they waited, and his legs were starting to ache from crouching, but he didn't voice these complaints as Darius looked back over the crates again. He was starting to suspect that maybe these guys had noticed the four of them skulking around like they were.

He was starting to zone out, staring down at his hands, and he twitched as Darius spoke. Seere cringed. "Aye," he said. "No destroying nothing else. Can do." Maybe. His magic wasn't exactly the most agreeable of things, after all, and fire didn't really pay attention when you tried to order it around. S'fine, I don't need it. He could just beat them with his bare hands, no problem.

[Attn: Ryla, Miriam]
--Shazeer Ruins; Northern UMS Territory--

Sheridan held up a finger to silence the guild member Miriam was seeing through. He knew Miriam was probably getting impatient, but he didn’t care. There was so much already here; the last thing he needed was being rushed. Much of what they knew about the Shazeer was based on speculation.

After being in the room and seeing the layout, he was certain there was a hidden door, but looking for the key to opening the door was the problem. “Probably only the Shazeer priests and officials were allowed to enter a room such as this. Most likely to ensure that none of their prized possessions would be taken.”

Ryla was already searching the room at a fast pace. His eyes scanned the room when they fell upon a faded painting on the wall that depicted a distinct lone man standing underneath a ray of light. “Of course, Meerzon!” He shouted excitedly and raced across the room to the painting.

“This...this here depicts one of their gods, Meerzon. He was the divine who created and protected the order of the priests.” Sheridan passionately began to ramble on to whoever was listening, most likely just himself. “…granted a few believe he was actually a human who became viewed as a god. This…This is proving that!”

He took a deep breath as he admired the depiction. “Amazing. He wouldn’t be beneath the light if he was already a god.”His fingers lightly touched the painting. “Meerzon...at what point did he become one of their gods?” He whispered.

Sheridan was pulled out of his thoughts when Ryla addressed him. He stopped what he was doing and looked towards her. “Ryla…”He sighed as he approached his energetic companion. “These books could be precious artifacts as well. Let’s…uh…let’s try to preserve the integrity of these objects as much as possible.” He gave a quick pat on her head.

As he began to assist and remove the books, he noticed a small leather pouch hidden carefully within the bookshelf. “Hellloo…” He opened the leather pouch and let a small metal object fall into his hand. It was a key of sorts, he figured. The end was shaped into a unique symbol.

Sheridan nudged Ryla. “Here…there must be an indentation with that symbol somewhere in this room.” He dropped the key into Ryla’s hand. “If we insert this into the indentation, it should get us into the hidden room...theoretically of course."

[ATTN: Fuyu, Seere, Darius]
--Alleyway in Gates Town; UMS Border Territory--

The primary thing Lockett would take from this mission was the fact that long legs were not made for crouching. His were beginning to ache as a result of the awkward position he had himself huddled in. He didn't move or complain, though; this was the only place they could lie in wait.

The fact that people were walking by and staring at them made him question the utility of this method of lying in wait. A bunch of men crouching behind some crates in broad daylight wasn't the most inconspicuous thing he could think of. He noticed an uneasy buzz amongst the people milling around, but didn't dwell on it.

Darius spoke up then and Lockett gave him a nod and a grin. "Of course," he responded, briefly glancing around at the buildings in question. Mass destruction wasn't something he had to worry about causing.

[Attn: Sylmeria, Harima]
--Blazing Sword Guild Hall; Terrenia City--

Only a few weeks and Nymeria was already watching a young woman being pushed against her will. It made Nymeria wonder what other actions were happening in the guild. She had a small soft spot for this "Syl", but compassion and pacifism wouldn't get the lady far in Blazing Swords. When Harima brought Nymeria into the conflict, she didn't know what to say for a few seconds, then one of Nymeria's half-truths came tumbling out.

"Listen, this, I'm sure, is only meant to help you control your power. I doubt this guy would want the Guildmaster on his tail. Just...do what he says, even if for only a second or two. I won't hurt you, and neither will Harima."

As soon as the last few words left Nymeria's mouth, she wanted to bite her tongue before she dug herself into a deeper hole. "Great...Now I have to protect this girl from herself, and the barbarian. All these years and I still speak more than I ought to."


[Attn: Nameless man, Open]
--Ferrum Coordinator Guild Hall; United Merchant States--

Char sat at his Guildmaster's desk, his elbows planted on the chairs arms as his hands are clasped together with open palms. This day wasn't more stressful than any other day, but every so often, one nut-job comes to the guild with ridiculous demands. The one that stood before Char was even more annoying than the last one. Rarely anyone dared to see the Guildmaster without so much as a notification ahead of time. Char did his best to keep his temper low; his eyes giving a disapproving glare.

One guild member asked Char if Janos should be brought to the hall, but Char simply raised one hand. "That won't be necessary, but thanks. I think I can handle it." If there was ever time I could use Rodimus's charisma, it'd be right about now... Char thought as he sat forward, trying to piece together his argument. "I can understand that you need your swords in a timely manner, what with this strange heaviness in the air lately. But please try to understand that crafting such high quality weapons take more than just ample amounts of materials, they need time and attention...like...a child! If we produced swords in merely hours, their quality would fall exponentially. So please, sir, try to have a little more patience. I'll get more members on the job as soon as they're ready."

Darius' warning was surely not to fall upon deaf ears as each of the other three companions replied with understanding. They wait silently for about ten more minutes until Darius sees a dark skinned man step into the alleyway, coming out of the supposed brick wall. He looks about and Darius ducks quickly before he is seen. The man could be here on watch or he could be leaving. A few more moments would tell.

After a few minutes, Darius looks up and the man is gone. A quick lookout, it would seem. He ducks again, this time a little more tense as he ponders on how these three are going to handle this. Part of him is simply curious, but he is mostly worried. He doesn't want anyone to get hurt and there are an awful lot of civilians around.

"Okay, the hideout is confirmed." Darius whispers. "We don't know their numbers, their plans...all we know is they are stealing shit and taking it in there. How do you guys want to go forward?"


The manager waits a few moments, watching her hesitantly read over one of the invitations with more focus. He pauses, his speech coming to a halt with possible expectation. Not surprisingly, she is interested and asks him to speak with the caller.

"Absolutely," The Manager says, "I'll get her to write up a response and I'll be back here in about five minutes, minimum."

With that, he takes his leave and returns in seven minutes with a not, the caller expressing her desire to meet at the building's front, so that they may go out for a walk. It is, after all, a marvelous day, so the manager is not surprised at the suggestion, entirely.

"From what she said, it sounded as though she'll be waiting up front for ya." He says politely in closure. "Have a wonderful afternoon."


The man stares silently for a few moments, clearly not satisfied. He looks to the other guild member with a glare that could have deemed him demonic and clenched his fist. "You should be fetching that Janos fellow! The least I could get is a damned progress report!"

He sits down, finally, one hand moving up to mess with his mustache in a agitated manner, clearly not ready to leave or to consider the matter settled. "I'll have you know that I am a very high class citizen. I pay a lot and I pay in a timely manner. I also have many friends that happen to be your clientele--do you truly wish to lose so many of your customers, Mr. Hayley? I can assure you, if you simply just usher me out without some sort of proof that it is actually being worked on after all of this time, I'll have to seriously reconsider my doing business here. I hardly thing that comparing a weapon to an innocent child is hardly going to help me understand why this man cannot finish with my order!"



Ruoh is in the office for a mere three minutes before a knock can be heard at the white, pristine door. He moves to the door and opens it with a quick bow to Nadia before backing away and gesturing to the familiar chair before the Guild Master's desk. He waits for her to sit before seating himself, a small smile on his face--just barely. As he moves across the room, his movements are full of grace and agility, his gestures hinting at a high-class living. His shining, golden eyes stare at her intensely as he gets comfortable and when he speaks, his voice is soft and gentle.

"It is a pleasure to see you, Ms. Pardeva." Ruoh states in greeting, "I appreciate your taking the time out of your schedule to meet with me. You may call me just Ruoh, if you wish--"

His voice cuts off as his expression freezes, as if from realization of some fact or memory. He inhales deeply before speaking me again. "...I must say you are quite stunning...have we ever formally met? Shamefully, I must admit that I do not believe that I have had the honour."


Ferran nods with confirmation before moving back out towards the main hall, his arms swinging wide in his quick walk as his head looks down towards the floor. Before, he was looking up with energy and a big smile, but it is almost as if speaking with Jacobi alone has lowered his spirits in some way.

He speaks with the gentleman briefly, requesting his name as he brings him through the hall and walks through the crowded tables of jokes and drinks and into the Guild Master's office. As the young gentleman lays eyes upon Jacobi, his face pales instantly. Ferran cringes, knowing the the man now realizes which Jacobi is behind that desk.

Ferran gives the man a bit of time to recover, introducing him so that he does not have to speak yet. "Jacobi, this is Councilman Graves. I believe he is here to inquire about one of the quests given to us by the Council, if my assumption is correct."

"S-sir." The gentleman says, sitting before the desk nervously. "I--I was coming to give inquiry as to the status of the murder case of Mr. Mavericks. I heard that this was the Guild that w-was investigating...is that c-correct information?"

He shifts in his chair uncomfortable, suddenly clear that he no longer wishes to be here. He rushes in a few last words. "I-I can come back at a later time, o-of course, if that would be more beneficial to you."


Miriam is filled with exultation--she is absolutely thrilled and now she is pacing about the room as Sheridan goes over a few of the facts that they know. This is only the second time they've been through the place and of course, the Guild has yet to fully move any artifacts or objects of values into the Guild Museum, due to the Museum's recent damage dealt from last week's attack...sill so much clean up to do.

She is ready to say something more when someone barges into the Guild Master's office looking as if they'd just finished wrestling with a troll. Szayel was his name, and his hair was sticking up every which way, rather than falling down at gravity's request. His eyes are bugged open with wild green eyes dilated with excitement.

"Miriam! The museum! Some of the pieces are gone and--!" Szayel startes to exclaim.

Miriam scrunches her eyes closed, wincing in pain as the sharp pain wracks through her head and down her spine in her neck and onto her back. When she opens her eyes again, Szayel has had the graciousness to shut the hell up while Miriam tries not to double over from the pain...and it finally ends. She puts up a finger to indicate to him that she will speak with him in just a second.

"I have to disconnect--let Sheridan and Ryla know that I had to go for emergency purposes. I look forward to hearing of their progress." With that, Miriam was disconnected from the Ruins and back fully into the Guild Hall.

She looks at her visitor with distaste. "...this had better be good, man. You have no idea how close we are to--"

"Just look, Miriam! Come look!" He insists, moving forward to grab her wrists. She grudgingly follows, her thoughts still focused on that room that is located so very far away...


Lark praises the boy with a swift "good job" and a fake smile, but he doesn't care. He smiles back with a big one, giggling to himself. He moves back towards the square, beckoning to Lark with a gesture to follow him. He practically skips over to a square's center, where a giant, decorative fountain rests, trickling with water's hymn.

He stands up onto the edge, his hands up on his hips with a heroic pose as he looks up closer to Lark's level in height. "You helped me get this good at the flute. You helped me make money for myself. For that...I want to give you something in return. Will you let me?"

Lark stares at him as if he is odd with an eyebrow raised and the boy decides to take that for a yes. His grin falls into a serious expression as he exhales deeply with big, brown eyes. His hands reach up and touch Lark's shoulders and as they make contact, the boy's eyes turn black in an instant as Lark's mind is flooded with visions like none has has ever known before.

They boy's body is replaced by another figure in an instant with a wash over colored water magic and the woman now holding his shoulders has sandy brown hair and familiar, blue eyes that seem to be smiling at him. Her festive green outfit shivers from the wind's touch as she tilts her head to the side just a little.

"Songbird, you are still so lost. We are going to help you find your way, just bear with us, okay?" Aria says sweetly with a look of concern as her hands strokes his wild hair.

She fades into darkness and Lark is suddenly alone, surrounded by pitch black and cold. All is quiet until a white light shines, just a dot, at first, until it slides among the floor where Lark stands, creating a circle of light around him. It emanates warmth instantly, keeping him from shivering any longer as small patterns form within the circle's limits, lighting up the entire space underneath Lark's feet. When the design is complete, Lark feels....a sens of completion, a sense of...belonging.

For perhaps the first time in so long, Lark's heart is touched by pure emotions of being loved. The darkness is fully gone now and around him, scenery is formed. It appears to be a great gate, wooden and colored in a deep maroon with black baubles hanging from it. Aria's voice echoes into his mind as the scenery, as well as the magic circle at his feet, begin to fade and reveal reality. "Find the gate and you will not be lost."

With that, Lark finds himself before the boy, who is now removing his hands from his shoulders with normally colored eyes as the fountain's trickling sounds and the noise of the bustling center square now come into focus while Lark's senses return to where they should be. All seems to be normal and the boy said simply: "I hope that helped."

Image:

Xiax finds himself surrounded by what would appear fire on this fine afternoon, as the building next to where he usually rests is currently on fire. Word has already gotten around and Guild members are rumored to be on their way, but a few citizens are trying to pull away anyone that is too close while gathering buckets of water to throw onto the furious flames.

Several people are surrounding the area, simply to watch without assisting as if they are entranced by the flame's light. Several are talking to each other, betting over whether or not someone started the fire on purpose or if it was accidental. Many are wondering if it has anything to do with the feelings in their guts that they had woken with--or maybe even caused by it.

"Oh my god!" There's a child in there!" Someone calls out, suddenly in panic, "He's in the window!"

[Attn: Open; Location: Ventya State; United Merchant States - Outside burning building ]

Xiax wakes up not because the building that he is sleeping against is on fire, but because of the sudden noise of people. That's when he notices the building is on fire! Jumping up to his feet he finds himself completely awake. The first thought going through his head is to get the heck away from there, so strong is this that he doesn't remember to grab his things until he brushes against it. "Can't have that." Xiax says to his things, just what would he do if all his belongings got burnt up? Things would get much worse, much much worse.
Working his way into the crowd, the normal isolating behavior forgotten in the wake of this urban oddity. People are too absorbed in watching the fire, and not on the smelly homeless-man right beside him. So Xiax listens, and he starts to learn a few things: he learns that people are taking bets. Bets! Just what is wrong with them, here he is, scrounging around and these people are just throwing money around. Wait... what was that? The guilds are on there way, well that means he should get out of -

"Oh my god!" There's a child in there!" Someone calls out, suddenly in panic, "He's in the window!"

Isn't anyone going to help her? Anyone? Xiax looks around, seeing if there might be someone brave or something. The people around him are muttering, but no one is volunteering. It's ok right? The Mages will get here soon, someone will save the boy, they'll be in time. That's right Xiax, there isn't any need to get involved. Help is on the way, everything will be fine. He wants to help, he truly does but the mages will get here. There is a gnawing feeling in the pit of his stomach as he joins the crew passing buckets down the line to throw on the fire.
"Everything will be alright, no need to worry about it Xiax." he says trying to reassure himself as he takes the bucket in his hand. He turns and hands the bucket to the next person in line. The woman is still screaming, the Mages still haven't arrived yet. "Come on." he whispers as he throws a pleading look down the road then to the crowd. "Come on
Come on, -" Another bucket is passed to him
"- Come on." he pleads in a quite whine, the rhythm of the buckets breaking as he hesitates.
"Hey! Come on."
"Ohh right sorry." Xiax responses mechanically as he passes his bucket to the next man in line.
"Here, keep the pace." The man reminds him as he hands another bucket to Xiax.
That feeling is still there. "Uggghhhhhhhh." Xiax groans as he does something incredibly stupid. The shock of the cold water rushing down his head and back knocked the feeling completely out of his head. "Give me another, come on!" He couldn't back down now, just think of it like a morning bath. He shouldered out of his basket and put it on the ground as he took the second bucket and soaked himself further. "Come on!" Xiax yelled at the guy, who threw the next bucket of water onto him.
Xiax started breathing hard, not just from the biting cold he suddenly felt but in worry and fear. His body was shaking as he still fought with the feelings inside himself. The woman was hunched over crying against a friend maybe, and the boy wasn't at the window anymore. That didn't exactly settle it, but Xiax started running to the door. He slammed into the door expecting it was locked...

It wasn't.

Xiax tripped and fell onto the ground, and he looked up from the floor. The was fire, fire and smoke. He rose to his feet and looked about trying to find a way upstairs.

Kaimele

{ATTN: Open}
--The Taverness Reaches Club; Terrenia City--

Clementina watches the manager leave. She takes the opportunity to fix her makeup. She takes off the heavy stage make up and replaces it with lighter more appropriate for day makeup. She will have to be Clementina for a little bit longer today. She is just finishing up when the Manager returns. He gives her the callers response and leaves.

She gets changed out of her dance outfit into a dress. It is one she wears as Clementina. The clothing she typically wears is not as flashy. She makes sure her wig is on securely before packing her items in a bag.

She walks to the front of the tavern and sees the noblewoman. She walks up and curtsies politely. “Milady, it is an honor to meet with you. I hope you enjoyed the show.”



Jacobi

{ATTN: Ferran}
--Valoria Guild Hall; Chanda Lake--

Jacobi loves watching how people react around him. Even with his eye closed, the weaker people get frightened. Ferran leaves and brings with him that sort of man. The guy looks like he is going to piss his pants just entering the room. Jacobi smiles a sardonic smile as Ferran introduces him.

“Please sit down Councilman.” He watches at the guy fidget and stammer. “Nooo, I would not hear of it. After all, you came all this way.” He goes to the cabinet and opens it with the key. He looks in the file and find the latest update. “It looks like they are still working on it. As soon as we know more, we will let you know. Is there anything else you need?” He hates being cordial, but he knows how important this case is. Once this guy is back he is going to the training room, and people better watch out.

[ATTN: Lockette, Darius, Fuyu]
--Alleyway in Gates Town; UMS Border Territory--

Seere grimaced. He wasn't no good at planning, either, and he probably wasn't the best to ask anyway. "Y'know me, Darius," he said. "No good at strategy."

He scratched at the stubble starting to come in on his cheeks. "But then of us, I'd be the best at bluffing a way in," he said as the thought came in. "Y'all just scream 'guildie' too much." And Seere looked like any other poor, jobless loser on the street - the sort of guys who would be doing this thieving jig.

[ATTN: Ruoh]
--Quinsenterra Guild Hall; Gir'ratown--

Nadia curtseyed as he opened the door, and sat down gracefully in the chair he offered her. She crossed her legs and folded her hands in her lap, sitting up straight as he talked.

When he hesitated, her expression didn't change - but when she spoke her words were carefully constructed, almost cold. "I don't believe we have," she said. "Does the guild have need of my services?"

[ATTN: Seere, Darius, Fuyu]
--Alleyway in Gates Town; UMS Border Territory--

"The only thing to do is feel them out, since we have nothing else to go on," Lockett responded to Darius after watching the man disappear back into the hideout. "We could always take a more... abrupt route, but." He shrugged, still half grinning. "Slow and steady wins the race, isn't that what they say?"

Seere seemed to be thinking along the same lines, as he was quick to volunteer to approach their targets. Lockett nodded, having to agree that he'd be the best for the job. He knew he couldn't pass for a street thug and Fuyu wasn't the most sociable man he'd ever met. It was possible that the bluff would fail miserably if this group they were targeting was particularly tight knit, but Lockett liked Seere's odds. Rough and tumble types like the guys they were after were seldom organized like that.

[Attn: Janos, Nameless Man]
--Ferrum Coordinator Guild Hall; United Merchant States--

Char grew very peevish after the man refused to leave. He felt as if his hands were tied behind his back. "Janos must be already busy working on the swords. He wouldn't be happy if I interrupted him just to argue with this idiot." At that moment Char hatched an idea; instead of taking Janos to the customer, he'd take the customer to Janos, and the swords. That way, the man might understand how much it takes to create such weapons.

"Alright, sir." Char began as he rose from the guildmaster's seat. "I'll show you just how much progress Janos is making." Char hoped his confidence came off well. He was honestly praying that Janos at least had a few swords done already. "Follow me." He said after walking through the doorway. Char then paced his way to the forgery where he found Janos. Char approached the guild member carefully, trying not to cause any damage. "Excuse me, Janos!" He called. "The client is here to see how things are going. Do you have a minute?"

[Attn: Sylmeria]
--Blazing Sword Guild Hall; Terrenia City--

Nymeria lifelessly watched the scene play out in front of her, unsure of what to do next. The girl became a sobbing mess, making Nymeria feel all the more awkward. As Nymeria contemplated helping her fellow guild member, she saw memories of herself trembling in fear over the monster she became after she was revived. Her lover was the only one who made Nymeria feel comfortable with herself. Syl must have never experienced such a gift. And that's when Nymeria decided to attempt comforting the little fledgling. The girl could prove useful in the future.

"I used to be just like you, ya know...I had a hard time understanding my own powers...especially when I lost someone important in my life...But you know what? I learned how to take ownership of my powers and make them a part of me-a part of my identity. I learned how to live with what I have and make the most of it. I'm not sure what your deal is, but...the sooner you come to terms with your ability, the better. Come to me if you need help. I don't get off on giving others a hard time like the rest."

Nymeria felt mentally and physically strained after that speech. She couldn't remember the last time she spoke so emotionally. All she wanted to do at this point was get a drink or find somewhere to nap. She opened the door hesitantly, waiting to see if Syl had anything to respond with.

[Attn: Janos]
--Ferrum Coordinator Guild Hall; United Merchant States--

Char grimaced, though he didn't catch right away what Janos was insinuating. "I'm afraid I can't help you at the moment. We have a guest here who would like to see the swords you're working on. And by the looks of it, I wouldn't say he's very happy. So, if you don't mind, the swords, please?"

[ATTN: Lockett, Seere, Darius]
--Alleyway in Gates Town; UMS Border Territory--

Fuyu watched the man step out into the alleyway and ducked out of the way. He noted the man's smell; any detail could come in handy and he knew his sense of smell was better than your average person's. The man soon left and the group discussed what to do.

Seere was right, out of the three of them he would make the best decoy. Lockett was on board with the plan, and Fuyu had no reason to be against it. He nodded as well and said, "You'll need a signal to let us know if you need us. A word or sound that won't tip them off. If I sit near the door and you can prop it open somehow I should be able to hear it."

[Attn: Sylmeria]

Nymerial let her hand rest on the door handle as she thought of what to say next. "Well I'm not that easy to kill..." Her next words came out as a whisper, followed by a chuckle; "I've lived longer than I remember." Nymeria then faced Syl with doubt and concern. "All you need is a strong will and inner strength that can't be manipulated by others. I read a book about that once...But anyways, I digress. How about we go for a drink?"

[Attn: Ryla, Miriam]

--Shazeer Ruins; Northern UMS Territory--

Sheridan raised an eyebrow at Ryla’s comment. He had been thinking about a making a salad when he got back to the guild. “I...I really don’t think a skeleton can eat one.” He said without much thought. “But you know, I do recall one culture that thought they needed to place food within the coffins regularly in order to feed their loved ones in the afterlife.” He paused for a moment awkwardly. “Frankly, it was an odd culture.”

After Ryla’s second outburst, Sheridan chuckled quietly. “I'm afraid I’m not following this conversation very well.” Despite being puzzled from time to time, he was actually comfortable with this non-linear conversation.

Within a moment, Ryla was back on track, talking about the hidden door. “Right…right…Well yes, it very well could be hidden there, I suppose.” He began to inspect the wall of the library. “Unfortunately, I don't know Shazeer architecture as well as I would like.” He figured Miriam was in a hurry, but he could spend all day here for all he cared. There was so much to investigate.

Darius waits for suggestions on how to move forward with this situation. Seere, without any surprise to Darius, is the first one to speak up with an idea of his own. He grimaces as he speaks with hushed tones.

"Y'know me, Darius," Seere said, scratching at the stubble starting to come in on his cheeks. "No good at strategy, but then of us, I'd be the best at bluffing a way in; Y'all just scream 'guildie' too much."

"The only thing to do is feel them out, since we have nothing else to go on," Lockett adds in, "We could always take a more... abrupt route, but." He shrugged, still half grinning. "Slow and steady wins the race, isn't that what they say?"

Fuyu made it clear that he also agreed with this plan. "You'll need a signal to let us know if you need us. A word or sound that won't tip them off. If I sit near the door and you can prop it open somehow I should be able to hear it."

Darius nods his head with understanding. This was their mission, their choice--so now it was his job to watch and analyze their methods and progress. It's an interesting idea and Seere can handle himself. "Okay, guys, go ahead. I'll be here, watching. Also keep in mind that it is rumored that their leader is a magic user--if that is true, we have no idea what the leader can do."

Darius finally sits fully on the ground after flashing his tattoo, once again, to the public citizens that are giving them the odd stare. A few roll their eyes and move on while he turns his focus back to his comrades. Suddenly, his attention is sparked as a woman steps out with pink hair and riveting curves. A man is stepping out with her--the same that had stepped out alone previously for a few moments. The two seem to be arguing about something, but Darius cannot quite hear what they are saying. He looks to Fuyu for confirmation, hoping that the Slayer will be able to hear something.

"I am not here for your enjoyment!" The pink-haired girl scowls, her fists clenched. "I joined this group to participate--and not in a gross way! I'm not just some sack of meat for you to gawk at and--"

"Shut up." The man replies coldly with a blank stare. "You wanted to join us and here you are. Since you want to help so badly, you get night watch in four hours. You'll be up front making sure no intruders get their way in or out--ask to see their tattoos when they enter and if they don't have it, don't let 'em in. There's your first job, congratulations."

"That's boring," She snaps back. "I don't want--"

"I said shut up. This is your only option. Now do your job or get out of the damn group. That's your choice." The man interrupts her with a tone of warning, "And I'm sure you know what will happen if you leave us."


Clementina walks to the front of the tavern and sees the noblewoman. She walks up and curtsies politely. “Milady, it is an honor to meet with you. I hope you enjoyed the show.”

The Lady of Crye smiles, raising her arm with an offered elbow so that her arm may wrap around Clementina's as they walk. It is a friendly gesture, one that most middle and high-class women usually only use for those they are most familiar and comfortable with. Her white hair and grey eyes seems quite soft and her skin and clothing are soft with signs of little to no manual labor.

"I most certainly did enjoy the show." Lady Crye replies with excitement, "I just think it is unbelievable some of the flexible movements that you can make! My goodness, I could never dance with such grace. I want to thank you for agreeing to meet me. I had hoped you'd be willing to allow me to hire you to perform for a specific audience."

At this, the woman begins to walk down the Streets of Terrenia, towards the city's more central area where businesses and merchants are most known to be. It is near impossible to avoid this area when traveling through the city unless one traveled through the more dangerous, darker areas of town and most did not wish to do that--so it was indeed, the perfect place for merchants and the like to set up their wares. The people are bustling about, but when Lady Crye is seen, many know well enough to make space around her and give her full room to move about the area. She is clearly well renowned in this area, probably especially due to her own gardening sales.

"My father is a man that is...well-off, monetarily speaking." Lady Crye says, stating a fact that most already know. "At least once a year, he throws a party of all of his silly, fancy friends and acquaintances at his estate. Now, I will say that these parties are always a success and very beautiful--the thing is, my father is also a competitive man."

Lady Crye halts her walking just before a flower seller, leaning down to smell some of the lighter colored delights before standing again and pulling a few from here and there and purchasing them without even speaking to the merchant lady that was selling them. Rather, her conversation was still directed at Clementina.

"His party must always be more grand than my Uncle's, who throws a party of his own once a year. The two make a constant game out of it, bringing out more and more grand attractions, games, and decorations than previous years." Lady Crye concludes, "I'd very much like you to be this year's entertainment for my father. I do not doubt for a moment that you could assist him in 'defeating' his dear uncle this time. What do you think? You would be paid well."


The gentleman listens to the banter between Janos and Char, first with obvious displeasure and then with quiet contemplation. He looks over at the two blades that are already completed, for the most part. He face softens, clearly somewhat appeased. His gaze moves up to Janos finally, a nod of understanding following his look as he speaks calmly.

"If you complete the blades within one week, I shall give you a rather generous bonus." The man offers, now turning to walk away from the work area, expecting Char to follow. "I thank you for showing me the progress, Mr. Hayley. I shall return in a week to see the progress again, whether they are completed or not."

With that, the gentleman moves to make his leave. He no longer has any interest in remaining there and his exit is made with great haste, though not overly rude in any way. As he turns to exit the main hall of the Guild, a few of the members of Ferrum Coordinator make faces at his back, as well as imitate the funny way that he walks with his cane.


"I don't believe we have," Nadia says almost coldly, "Does the guild have need of my services?"

Ruoh opens a desk drawer, pulling out a folder and setting it on the opposite side of the desk where Nadia can take it. "Indubitably, it most certainly does. You are the one that Lady De Gant has pointed me to when I am in need of assistance with running the Guild. Due to my absence, I am afraid that I am not familiar with many of the members here."

Ruoh jumps right into the point of the meeting with a clear, soft tone, though as he is ready to speak more, the room changes. All sound is gone as the room freezes, and Nadia will feel as though she is almost weightless within the silent space. Should she try to move, her body will seem slowed greatly, as if time has no meaning around her. The music from the grand hall has disappeared, replaced by a high-pitched tone ringing in her ears and she will find it difficult to focus. Ruoh, himself, seems to have frozen--unmoving with eery, golden eyes that are glowing for a brief moment. As his eyes darken, the sound returns and the ringing fades from her ears over a few seconds as he begins to speak as if nothing happened.

"I have this very important Quest that has been offered to our Guild." Ruoh says nonchalantly, "I am unsure who would be best suited to the task, so I had hoped you'd be able to point me in the right direction. We are given a time limit for this particular request, so I am hoping to assign someone to it right away."


“Please sit down, Councilman.” Jacobi replies, “Nooo, I would not hear of it. After all, you came all this way.” He goes to the cabinet and opens it with the key.

The Councilman waits as Jacobi reads over a file, still nervous to hear the man's response. Upon hearing Jacobi's words, however, his nervousness only increases.

“It looks like they are still working on it. As soon as we know more, we will let you know. Is there anything else you need?” Jacobi answers.

That's it? No details? No information to whether or not they even has suspects or who they have working on it? Is the magic user they have sent a great detective, or is he simply good with magic, whatever his or her magic may be? It seemed as though this man was not going to give the Council any satisfying answers or information and he will have to wait until Mia has returned to her guild before they find any useful updates about the murder case.

"V-very well, th-thank you." The Councilman replies quickly, standing in an instant and moving to make his leave. "Have an excellent day, Sir." With that, he removes himself from the Guild Hall as quickly as he is able without outright running. He will send someone else to find out what is going on next time, he bets his life on it. That man is evil.


The indentation in the wall can be found behind a bookshelf, and upon its discovery, the key insertion will open the wall with moving stone and dust and debris falling to the ground all around the entrance as the walls move. This door has clearly not been opened in a very long time, the evidence of webbing and dust making it apparent. As the two enter the space, their footprints will be seen upon the smooth-stone floor through the dust's thick layer upon its surface.

The room itself is circular--a somewhat large, dome-like structure. Only once before has a room of this shape been found from the Shazeer--a room of ritualistic worship. The structures within the room verify that this is, without a doubt, another ritual room. The pillars that shape a circular shape within the space each have a deity's symbol shining upon their surfaces, and the circle carved into the floor's center appears to be worn away from repeated use of moving liquid through the carving's crevices.

What can be said as that this is, for the first time, an intact ritual room with completed carvings and symbols upon the walls, pillars, and floor--never before has a room been uncovered that has not taken on much damage from time's ravaging fury. Still, this room is silent and complete, with only a few cracks on the floors edges to reveal that any damage has been done at all. The air here is stale and stuffy, and the room is very dim with no light emanating from within.

The man that had previously been speaking for Miriam, waits at the entrance--he is not an Archaeologist--not in the ways that his two companions are...he does not wish to disturb anything and so he waits patiently at a distance, noticing that within the circle, three brazers were carefully placed, dark and waiting to be lit.

"If you light those, I am sure we'll be able to make out the writings a bit more easily." He recommends to them from a distance.


As the building groaned from the thread of collapsing, Xiax will be able to see stairs leading up to the second floor in the room to his right, which just so happens to already be covered in falling rubble. Once he is able to clear that from his path, the stairway will take him to three different doors, all are closed and lead to bedrooms. Two of the three rooms are empty, but the third will reveal a young boy, unconscious upon the floor before the window where he had previously stood with hope of being saved.

Suddenly, the building began to shake--an earthquake. They happened frequently here, and the building makes a loud crack and groan as the ground shakes the shambling building violently and threatens to topple to the ground. Should it fall in just the right way, it could light nearby buildings on fire, spreading to more people and threatening the town...

Kaimele

{ATTN: Open}
--The Taverness Reaches Club; Terrenia City--

Clementina is shocked when the woman offers her arm. She immediately takes advantage of it. Lady Cyre walks with her through town. “Thank you for your compliments milady. I am glad you enjoyed the show.” Terrenia is a bustling town. She is a little surprised at the wide berth that they are given, never being on this end of it before. Her heart races as Lady Cyre tells her that she wants to hire Clementina.

As they continue their walk, Clementina is given more details. They momentarily stop at a flower stand, but not with their conversation. Lady Cyre gives her more details. It takes all her willpower to contain her excitement. “Milady, it would be an honor to perform for your father's party. So that I may plan the perfect dances, I need to ask a few questions. First of all is there a theme for this party or a certain style of dance you are requesting?” Her mind is already filling with possibilities of what kind of dances to perform. One thing is certain, she will need a new outfit.




Jacobi

{ATTN: Ferran}
--Valoria Guild Hall; Chanda Lake--

Jacobi watches the man and waits for a response. The councilman seems surprised by the lack of information, but it is a murder case one that requires more than a normal one. Of course the file has more details like how the culprit has been spotted. He is however very elusive to capture. Jacobi is not much for small talk though. The end result is the same – no one in custody. He knows that the council wants results.

The councilman shoots up from the chair and backs to the door. “We will let you know when the culprit is in our custody or if there are any updates.” Jacobi calls after him as he practically flees the building. He doesn't know how much the councilman actually heard. Jacobi chuckles as he puts the folder away.

He storms out of the office on a mission. He pauses by the bar area. “Anyone interested in training meet me in the training room.” He continues his way there, doubtful that anyone will take him up on the offer.