Guild Ties Role-Play

Braeguard is a place home to magic and non-magic users alike, and up until about a month or so ago, it was your normal, average life for all of those living on this small and simple continent of Guilds and Councils.  

Eight weeks ago, a great storm hit the great island, but these killer storms weren't necessarily unprepared for.  However, the storm hit faster and harder than expected, this time, catching many by surprise and causing much havoc and loss along the land.  However, it was during the beginning of this storm when a magnificent, bright wave of light and magic swept across the horizon, ending the storm in an instant and saving the lives of thousands.

Although there have been many rumors, hypotheses, and discussions regarding the source of what is now known as the "Storm Raze," but little has been proven or truly established as the initial cause of it.  One thing is known for sure, however:  The ability of Storm Raze is not echoed or shared in any by any currently registered S-Rank Mage within any established Guild.

This matter probably would have been more of the talk of town, but it was only a few days later when Dark Ascension attacked.  Once a guild of assassins, their darker paths became known publicly and the Guild was put on a "probation" of sorts while a member of the Unfortunate 13 watched their every move to make sure they followed the understood laws of morality with their magics and establishment.

Regardless, this did not stop the Guild from making its unexpected move as it attacked Infinity Edge head on, causing a war of great proportions as other Guilds stepped in to defend their brethren.  The other Guilds stepped in without hesitiation after learning of their Guild Master's near death experience.   This war lasted for over a month with various Guild Members teleporting in and out via various teleportation magi, providing breaks for the weakened and reinforcements for those still in the fight.  

This carried on for weeks, and would have taken longer, had Lady Aurella de Gant, had not sent a smaller group of magi in towards the Dark Ascension Guild Hall on the second day of the war and utterly destroyed their base into nothing but useless rubble.  This gave the dark guild members no place to go when they needed rest or supplies, hurting them greatly in their efforts.  

Note that no guild member was ever required to participate in the war--but those that assisted were noted within the records of both councils, just as those that did not assist were, as well.  Take that however you will.  Additionally, those that assisted in the war received great pay for it.  Many guild members were pulled away from quests already started just to assist in this one, as it became the primary quest for all.

After the war ended, however, guild members were all sent back home to their guilds to recover, to mark their losses, and to heal their wounded that had not yet been looked at.   Dark Ascension's Guild Master and the man who acted in his stead for the Unfortunate Thirteen were never found.  In fact, the hunt is still going on today--as Dark Ascension has been abolished, it is illegal to bear the mark of the now despised guild.  Bounties for anyone caught (alive) with a mark of Dark Ascension are high, regardless of where they are found or who they are turned in to.

The Guild Council meeting hall is a circular room with a circular table at its center.  A chair for each Guildmaster is carefully placed around it, with the Guild's symbol etched into it.  The chair for Dark Ascension sits awkwardly empty as the Guild masters all make their way to their seats as they arrive, some arriving far more slowly than others, despite the teleportation assistance provided under these special circumstances. While the members are pouring in, some congratulate their newest member of the council as he sits in his newest chair--Ryushi of White Cross.  

Although Mia congratulates him, as well, she's rather casual about it, unlike the rest.  After all, it's no big deal to her.  What matters to her is that he provides excellent support to the council as a whole over time--something he'll have to prove with action through his experiences at the table with them.  There are already drinks passed around, though many are looking at her Guild's Trustee and then at her when they realize he's there, standing up against the wall behind her chair.  It's certainly not normal for a Guild Trustee to be present at a council meeting, but they'll get over it.  

Ryushi is surprised a bit by all the attention he was getting, it was making him even more nervous then he already was. It felt a bit intimidating to be in the same room as all these people. Although he did know a few, he didn't know all of them and so he wasn't sure how to behave. For now though he tried to be as polite and sat in his seat with a pretty good posture.

''Thank you for the warm welcome. '' He said with a smile, although it was rather subtle since he was wearing his mask and beautiful purple kimono today. Although the mask wasn,t hiding all of his face, you could see his face pretty well from the sides, the the mask created a bit of shadow over his face.

Jacobi looks around at the others as he leans casually against the wall.  His arms are crossed.  He can feel the glances of the others.  He too has to wonder why she requested him to be here too.  He smirks playfully at the leaders who catch his eye.  He has to admit the battle was fun.  Too short if you ask him.  He accepts the drink, but stays silent for now.

As they all get settled and the awkward silence falls upon the room, the topic is now moved to the now empty chair of another Guild:  Sheherazade.  Miriam, the guild trustee that has taken over since the death of their Guild Master, is not present, but most knew that she would not be present.  Instead, she has still been busy with Guild affairs (having fallen terribly behind, thanks to the war and their sudden loss) and with the memorial to their losses.

Lady Aurella begins the meeting, as always, "Thank you for your time, Masters.  I'll begin with stating my remorse that Rex could not be here with us today.  His loss will forever be a scar on our memories and it will be deeply important that we each remember him and the services that he gave to us."

"Quite so,"  Rodimus says with agreement, "A shame died--but we should explain that to our new man, here."

Rodimus looks over to Ryushi and puts his hand on the man's shoulder in friendship, but Lady Aurella immediately shakes her head before looking over at Mia with obvious displeasure on her countenance.  She says nothing, but her reasoning behind her silent glare is obvious when Mia finally explains the presence of her Guild Trustee.

"We're discussing the Keys today, yes?  Jacobi is the one that handed most of them out."  Mia says with a shrug.  "You wanted info, he's got some of the info."

Lady Aurella stares for a moment longer, clearly still displeased.  She could kick the man out--after all, Mia could have easily gotten any necessary info from him and then delivered that information in the meeting herself.  He's here for another reason, she suspects.  However, she's willing to let this play out.  Maybe it will benefit them.  Maybe it will benefit only Valoria.  Time will tell.

"There is a gate,"  Lady Aurella says matter of factly, "somewhere near the northern edge of the continent.  If all of the  keys to that gate are discovered and used to open it simultaneously, terrible things will happen--a monstrous horde of creatures will be released upon our world.  That is why we spread the keys among the Guild masters and had fake keys made--by Rodimus, himself.  Now they have been passed around to various magi to be hidden, because we suspect the Guild Master of Dark Ascension of trying to open it for some unknown, ridiculous reason."

"And I never liked the whole spreading the keys around,"  Mia says,  "I mean, Rex died over a key--possibly a fake key.  He died for nothing."

Jacobi meets Lady Aurella’s glance.  He can tell she is not happy with him here.  However she did not tell him to leave.  He listens intently as she explains what the keys are for.  Interesting he wonders if he has a false or real key.  Let the Dark Ascension leader come.  He can handle them.

He looks over at the pretty boy.  He is one of the recipients.  He has to wonder if the White Cross leader would say anything.  “All the keys were delivered.  What the recipients do with them is up to them.”

Ryushi was wondering what Rodimus meant, however he was glad the man was so friendly toward him and sitting next to him. It made him a bit less nervous, however to Rodimus words he simply nods. They then started to talk about the keys. That made him even more nervous inside, but he did his best to try and stay cool outside. ''You mentioned the gate would be somewhere on the edge of the northern continent. I remember being on the list of people who needed to go check that area since there was abnormal things going on. The mission was postponed because of the war, although due to the damage the war may have caused, it may be hard to mobilize people of a suitable level for the task at hand. Nevertheless, if something that dangerous truly is there, I hope greatly its not found by the wrong people first. '' He tried his best to sound calm and was glad that all came out okay.

Lady Aurella nods her head, "We suspect it is the gate.  If it is, we need you at the head of it.  You're still expected to investigate the cause of the anomalies in the north. Regarding Rex's death...it was painful, yes, but not for nothing.  His death was something he signed on for-as did anyone with a key.  Each person knows the importance of the key they hold--false key or not."

Mia scowls, "Yeah, sure.  'Cause anyone will sign up to die if you wrap a pretty enough of a vague-ass bow on it."

Lady Aurella's voice is loud and short, "That is enough.  On to other matters.  The replacement of Rex.  Miriam does not wish to obtain the title.  She stated that just being the acting Trustee for once has shown her just how she's not ready for the responsibility.  Any suggestions for what should be done regarding his position?"

Jacobi shakes his head.  “Actually none of the people I handed the keys know anything.  I was only told to hand them off and they need to keep it hidden.  However maybe it can work.  Ignorance is bliss.  That is if they can keep their mouths shut.  If they disobey a simple command from me, that is their problem.”

Ryushi nods and says ''Given I can see the supernatural, I should indeed go there and see what is going on. Although I don't want to enlist people who may not have the ability to face the dangers that are there. I don't want unnessary deaths to happen basically. ''

The whole holding a key meant to sign a contract to die did make him nervous inside slightly, although, given the circonstance behind it, he was ready to protect it with his life.

He listen carefully to what to others says and reply ''Maybe they could hold a vote within the guild of some sort ?... Then again, I'm quite sure they won't be ready just yet to speak about it. It must be really painful. I didn't know him yet, but I had heard great things about him and I got to say it pains me as well that he died.''

Then Jacobi did mention the keys again and indeed ignorance was probably best in this case, but he hated the fact that some innocent people might get killed because of this course of action. Although in his case, know that he knew what they were for and what they did, he knew it was best to protect it.

Ilyana speaks up, this time, "I could offer my brother--he's an S Rank.  He's also an archaeologist.  To be frank, he's avoided guilds for a long time...but if I spoke to him, I think he would agree it is necessary.  He's a good man and you may not know him--hell, the Guild won't know him, but...I think it's the best decision.  We're low on S-Rank members, as it is."

Mia shrugs, "Couldn't care less.  If he's good, put him there, I'm down."

Connor clears his throat, "There's no guarantee the Guild members would follow him.  They may just leave the guild for another."

Grey replies coldly, "Then let them.  No skin off our bones.  More members for the rest of us until her brother makes his own name."

"Should he even wish to take the position,"  Lady Aurella says simply.

Ryushi think for a second and says ''Well for sure it could be hard at first for him to get the trust of the members right away, but I think it would be a good idea.''

"Very well," Lady de Gant replies, "Then we shall try it.  Ilyana, if your brother comes around, we'll work it that way and have Miriam introduce him to his new guild.  If not, we'll go for the vote option."

Ilyana nods her head, "Understood.  So will we meet again, after Ryushi's meeting?"  

"Yes,"  Aurella says, "We certainly shall.  Was there anything else that anyone wanted to add to this conversation?"

Mia scoffs, "I think you should thank Jacobi for putting his life on the line for your asses.  He carried a lot of keys at once, and we know Fuyu died for this, Rex died for this--"

Lady Aurella glares at Mia coldly, but it's Alexander Grey that interrupts, "Thank you, Mr. Rovengo, for your continued service to your Guild and this council."

Lady Aurella hesitates before stating the true reason why she allowed for the Trusteee to remain present for the meeting, "Keep in mind, Mr. Rovengo...you are the only one to know the identity of the majority of the key holders.  That puts you at high risk, should the Ascension discover it."

Ryushi shake his head to mean that he didn't need to add anything. He then listen to the rest.

So the kid got himself murdered too.  He was so much fun too.  That is two keys gone.  Whether they were fake or not is of no importance.  “It is nice to be held in such high esteem, Mr. Gray.”  Jacobi smirks.  His eye is on Lady Aurella though.  There is something going on, her coldness is not a simple guild hatred.  “You forget who my prior employers were Lady Aurella.  That was a lot tougher than some renegade magi.  The identity of the others will go to the grave.  I would worry more about the one who wrote that list.”  

"That would be your Guild Master,"  Lady Aurella says calmly, staring at Mia with disdain, "I worry equally for you both.  At any rate, if that's all, we can close this meeting early--"

"Woah,"  Nekron says, standing up, "I got beef."  

The table all looks up at him and he crosses his arms over his chest, "I wasn't there for this 'guild key' meeting.  I didn't know any of this before, just like the new guy.  And let me guess...V wasn't invited either."

V was the infamous Guild Leader of Dark Ascension.  Mia scowls at his name and just scoffs at him as he places an ankle up on the table rudely to lean back in her chair with a casual posture, "Uh-huh.  Right.  We didn't trust you.  Considering your past with V, we figured we should be on the safe side--"

"The safe side?"  Nekron says incredulously, "The safe side?  I know V more than anyone else!  I used to work for him!  Used to, but not anymore!  How many times do I have to prove this?  Gods, I helped you in the war against him!  I didn't--I don't want anything to do with the man anymore and you just--"

Ilyana stands up and sighs, still looking weak and slumping a little in posture, "Look, Nekron.  Maybe we were wrong.  We're sorry about that.  We did what we could at the last moment, okay?  I know you're upset, but--"

"Nothing,"  Nekron says, shaking his head, "But nothing.  You made a mistake.  You left the new guy out--but he sure as hell was trustworthy enough for a key.  Not me, though."

Silence fills the room, nothing said from any member before Grey finally says what he feels like he needs to say, "Just get over it.  You'll either earn our trust or you won't.  This is the consequence to being what you were.  Deal with it."

The atmosphere became suddenly really tense and Ryushi preferred not be part of the conflict and so he just continued to listen and said nothing.

Lady Aurella says, "Meeting dismissed."

The room starts to part ways as Lady Aurella de Gant vanishes first with the teleporter and the rest soon gather to follow.

Jacobi looks over at Mia.  It must grind Quin’s princess that she has no clue who has the keys, or that two of them are in their presence now.  After it was exposed that Nekron was once associated with DA, his glance switches over to him.  The Lady dismisses the meeting before Jacobi could speak.  He walks over to Nekron.  “If they didn’t trust you, you would not be here while they discussed the keys.”  He walks away and goes to Mia.  “I am ready to leave whenever you are.”  

Ryushi gets up and wait for his turn to be teleported out, not that he liked that way of transportation.

Daisan

Daisan exits his room and heads to the main room.  He was not happy to be pulled from his dig site, but knows it is important to be here.  He was not as close to this Rex as he was to the prior one.  Although part of the reason is that this Rex was not a leader too long.  The whole guild is sad and confused now.  Miriam does not want to be the next leader, so now they are leaderless.  Personally, he does not care who the next leader is.  As long as the next Rex will let him work out on the field, he will be perfectly happy.

~~~~~~~~~~

Kaimele

Kaimele is sitting at the table with Olivia.  Both ladies are enjoying a delicious breakfast.  Kaimele finishes the bite in her mouth.  “Grandma we need to talk.  There is some tension between Star Sound and Blazing Swords regarding location.  Especially now we are getting more notoriety since we helped blow up DA.  I don’t know where they will be relocating to or when.  I may have to go with them especially if it is farther away.”

Olivia smiles.  “I didn’t expect you to live here forever Kaimele.  I hope to see some great grandchildren from you before I die.”

Kaimele blushes.  “Grandma…First I have to find the right guy.  Right now I am just having fun before getting tied down.”

“Just don’t wait too long.”  Olivia winks.  “Now shall we get some work done?”


“That is another thing I want to talk about.”  Kaimele start slowly.  “I am going to worry about you alone here on the farm.  I want to either hire someone to keep an eye on you when I am gone or get you a place in the city.”

Oliva shakes her head.  “You don’t have to worry about me Kaimele.  I will be fine.  I have Elliot to watch me.  Go live your life and make sure you bring that Reese guy over.  He sounds like a nice guy.”

“Grandma, we are just friends.  If I do bring him over, you have to promise not to embarrass me.”  Kaimele pleads.  “I have a show this afternoon.  I have been so busy lately.  I will help you until I have to get ready.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Jacobi

Teleportation is not a method of travel that he prefers, but in this case Jacobi is thankful for it.  He waits until they are back at the guild hall before turning to her.  “Mia, we have to talk, in private.”

Mia's already heading into her office, so she says nothing and instead, walks on in and expects him to follow. Private is as private can get in there, as it is. She takes a seat in her usual place and waits.

He closes the door after entering.  “Is what she said was true?  About you picking the people for the keys?  Because I must tell you some of those choices toe the intelligent/crazy line.  I know I can handle myself against any enemy, but some of the others are questionable.”

Mia shrugs, "Yep. And who they trust it to after that, should they choose to pass it on, is on them. In the end, it'll be hard as shit for those asshats to find 'em. That's the point."


Jacobi shakes his head.  “You know this isn’t over right?  Those DA freaks won’t stop until they have the keys.  The dear lady seems to be pissed off too.  Is that because she has no control for once?”

Mia shakes her head, "No. She's pissed off because Ilyana almost died. They're best friends and it got to her. She's not one to get emotional, but...this time, she is. Can you blame her?"

“Women overthink everything.  Yeah she almost died, but she didn’t.  It felt good to kick some ass.”  He gets a smirk on his face.  “Mia, I don’t have to tell you to watch yourself.  I destroyed the list, so I meant what I said earlier.”  

"Awwww," Mia says mockingly, "So many feels! Tell me, Jacobi, you gonna go hunt down some more Dark Ascension for me? I think if our guild gets the most turned in, it'll really help our numbers for the Guild Games when it comes time to start..."

Jacobi’s eye lights up.  “Is that an official request?  Because you know I will do it.  Anything is better than sitting here cooling my heels.  Too bad you didn’t have the leader’s name.  I would use the compass to track the bastard down.”

"I expect a lot of unhappy pre-douche DA members in our local prison by the end of the next few weeks. And uh...no one knows his name, so. Yeah. It's a shame, though...you're right."

“I will start as soon as the teleportation effect wear off.  Don’t worry about me, I will keep in touch.  I have to when I drop the freaks off.”  Jacobi rises out of his seat.  “Anything else?”

"Nope, that's about it," Mia says, smiling.

{ATTN: Open}
--Gir'ratown, Quinsennterra Guild Hall--

As the sun shone down on Gir'ratown, this peaceful morning, a carriage rolls in. Aboard is a young lady, looking over the rolling cotton fields and silk farms, leading into town. As they cross through the gate, the clip clop of hooves on the cobblestone streets meets the air, mingling with the chatter of peoples carrying on about their routines. Soon the carriage comes to a halt and the lady departs. She sports a magenta sun hat, the brim of which is pulled down over the upper half of her face. Her skin is an off lavender color, and the corners of her mouth are curled into an impish little grin as she makes her way to the driver, handing him a few silver coins. The elderly man's eyes light up and he bows his head to her as she politely waves to him, on her way. "T-thank you kindly, madam. Gods blessings upon you."

The woman giggles. "Think nothing of it, dear," she says before disappearing into a small crowd.

On her way she passes a gilded water fountain, and spots of lush greenery with masterfully crafted stone benches, upon which people have stopped to converse or feed chirping birds. More than one pair of eyes fall upon her, thanks to her unique pigmentation. But soon those gazes find themselves just as fixated on her elegant, beautifully woven attire - an amaranth dress, with raven black embroidery, and plum-colored ribbons with a fine sheen, all complementing her lavender skin. In her hands is a small basket, filled with sewing supplies. Her tiny smirk stretches ever wider as a woman leans to whisper about her into the ear of her friend.

Soon she arrives at her destination - Guild Hall of the finest guild in the land, Quinsennterra. She enters, her hat still pulled over the upper half of her face. "Good morning," she says to a butler in a demure tone, looking around at the fine halls, decorated with marble statues, vibrant portraits, and the plaque of the guild's beautiful crest. "Dear me. It truly is as they describe. Refinement and beauty at its apex. Simply incredible." She pauses and giggles to herself.

---

{ATTN: Open}
--Perta City, Infinity Edge Guild Hall--

A train arrives at the station, just on the fringe of the Perta City, whose lakeside air is humid and filled with the squawking of gulls, all too familiar to the foreigner stepping out with her belongings. The sun beams down intensely on the town, and Ryūko shields her eyes from the light, after spending so long aboard a passenger car. "All right, then," she says, heading towards the town bustling, crowded city.

As she navigates through the sea of people, she stops and beholds a rather conspicuous building on a hill at the far end of town. "Ā, they've certainly made it easy to find."

On her way, she passes by several familiar sites, not to Kinley, but to her own home country. Many of the waterside towns were like this - compact and filled to capacity with people, all going in different directions. On every narrow street there seemed to be a stand selling odds and ends, from elderly women selling jewelry or clothes they'd made, themselves, to men selling small portions of specialty foods. But the busiest were those nearer to the lake, just like Kinley, selling their fish, or rides on their boats. Larger boats transport goods, to and from that Valoria guild, across the way. No matter where one turns, all those in sight are busy, in one way or another.

Eventually Ryūko makes her way through the madness of people, all packed in like sardines, ascending a modest dirt road up the face of the hill in the distance. When she at last visits the Guild Hall, she turns around, casting her gaze upon the breathtaking view the hill has over the city, and the lake, the sunlight just kissing the surface of the water. "Beauty like this can exist anywhere in the world, it seems." Then she turns herself and walks inside, looking around.

"Oha- Ā... hello?" she calls out upon entering.

---

{ATTN: Open}
--Walsh Guild Hall--

It'd been a harrowing few days for the gunpowder witch, who yet wanders the Sarrice Countryside, nearing the border with her bag over her shoulder. Her clothes are singed, she's covered in smears of soot, and she carries the smell of brimstone through the air with her. The mission had been a blur. Her mind racing, inventing new ways to use her powers at every turn, just to keep up and keep herself alive, not to mention herself. But in the end, ingenuity was never going to be enough. 'A few precise blasts to key locations. Make the building collapse on itself.' That was the plan. It'd sounded easy enough. But things seldom go as planned. And when things get desperate, strategy is useless. It's in such times that rage becomes the only option. And with her rage, a blast more powerful than any she'd ever mustered. But it'd done something. Left her numb. Every cell still... vibrated. Shook. She'd been told that she slept for over 72 hours after the fact.

When they offered to teleport her back, she declined. "And have to tongue wrestle another one of your heiresses? No thanks," she'd said. But now, as she drifts through the countryside like a wraith, the reason's more clear. Time to herself. A commodity with which Yuzu is an old friend. To the point where she's mastered the art of acquiring it. It's all for the best, after all.

Eventually she returns to the Walsh Guild Hall, making her way up the stairs to the main hall, only to turn around and take a seat at the top of them. For a moment she appears as if in a daze, removed from the active world around her. Those who pass by note the sharp rise in temperature around her.

Ryūko levels her head from its craned position, gawking at the large Guild Crest, emblazoned on the far wall of the Guild Hall's front corridor. Before her stands a shorter woman, decked out in full armor. Instinctively, she turns to her greeter with a formal bow, her hands to her side. "Hajimemashita," she says, standing upright once again and walking further into the room, her eyes still taking in the hall around her. "Ā. Nice to meet you. I am Tanaka Ryūko. I... was referred to this guild by a friend, and hoped to potentially join it."

[ATTN: Ilyana, Infirmary, Open]

-Infinity Edge Guild Hall, Entrance-

'Ease up, Ham, I doubt there's anything more we could have done. We scoured everywhere. We followed every trail. You can't just find leads where there are none." Juliette looked over at her brother, as the two of them were returning from a fruitless search for any more scattered members of Dark Ascension; murderers with a fancy name.

"I am at ease. It's just I'm not overly keen on returning empty handed. We were gone for a while, I'm sure they were expecting at least some fruit from us." Hamlet sighed, furrowing his brow, rubbing the bridge of his nose between his thumb and forefinger. She was right, he was merely being a worry wart. But he had expected different, the two of them were the best in the business, and such a fruitless search led him a divergence between two possible conclusions; One, that they were not NEARLY as effective at their jobs as he thought- and two, that all members, murderers of their clanmates, might be scattered to the win, never to face justice.

Both options concerned him.

"Aw, look at us; I'm the one giving you advice and you're the one getting your pants in a wad over nothing." She grinned at him, giving him a jovial slap on the back. Her face fell, almost comically. "Better stop, it's making me feel weird; and I can't tell if it's good weird yet."

Hamlet laughed, playfully careening into his sister. "Don't get too up on your high horse, dearest sister- I assure this moment won't last."

"Yeah, yeah." Juliette grinned, struggling to push him back. "You'll be back to dad voicing me in minutes, I'm sure."

"Well, I do look the part." He smirked down at her, stroking his beard, doing his best impression of what she believed to be 'roguish charm'.

"Yeah, with that terrible beard I still don't know why you grew. Makes you look like some knockoff pirate! One of these nights I'm gonna creep into your room with some shaving cream and sheer it all off." She used her two fingers to make snipping motions towards his beard, which he quickly flinched away from.

He gave a dramatic gasp. "You wouldn't dare! All the time and effort I spend trimming this and you're so keen to destroy all my efforts? How dare!" He crossed his arms, jerking his head away with a comical 'hmph', before quickly turning back, tilting his nose up and pointing down at her. "You, madame, are uninvited from all my parties."

Juliette was barely restraining laughter. "What?"

"Uninvited I say!"

She cracked up, as did he, careening into each other, trying to knock the other over.

"Oh, my sides, Ham, don't make me laugh!" She clutched the fractured ribs she had gotten when one of their 'contacts' went sour and kicked her in the chest.

"Ohho, oh no, oh I'm sorry!" Ham's laughter was quieting down to wheezing as he leaned over to her slightly, one hand on her shoulder, the other hovering over her wound.

"Y-you git!" She cackled, playfully punching his arm, her laughter peppered with slight 'ow's' as Ham continued to wheeze his way back down to reality. The two of them could tell they were attracting stares. They didn't much care.

Alright, alright, calm down, we're here- we- snnrk- we're home." Ham cleared his throat, smiling fondly down at his sister, his hand gently squeezing her shoulder.

July looked up at the building, already sensing the hustle and bustle that awaited them inside. She groaned. "Can't I just climb back up to my window? I don't feel like dealing with all this...people."

He chuckled, looking down at her, turning her to face him. "No. Because 1.) You need to get to the infirmary to get those ribs fixed. 2.) Socialization that isn't murderous will be good for you considering the last few days. And 3.) The last thing I need today is someone mistaking you for an intruder, shooting you off the side of the building, and a courier coming up to me with the message 'your sister was just speared by a townsperson!'."

"You're always such a killjoy! Plus, you know me," July grinned. "I never get caught."

Too much confidence will get you in trouble." He turned her back to face the door.

"Yeah, yeah, you're such a mom sometimes." She rolled her eyes.

"I'm a hot, sexy mom who gives the best advice that you never listen to." The pair opened the doors, stepping inside, surveying the bustle of people as they walked in through the entryway. He nodded at a few, recognizing them in passing, with Juliette handing out mock salutes behind him.

"Alright, now, I need to go report back to the guild master-" Ham gently turned her by her shoulder to face him.

"Ilyana."

"Yes, Ilyana, and yo-"

"Your giiiirlfrieeend." She looked up at him teasingly, a cheshire cat grin on her face.

Ham's face, in turn, fell. "No, it's not-"

"Hamlet and Ilyana sittin' in a tree. K-I-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-I-N-G." She made obnoxious kissy nosies to punctuate her statement.

Ham quirked an eyebrow in amusement, the corners of his lips turning up slightly. "I think that is too many S's." He patted her on the shoulder. "Now, I need to go talk to her, and you need to get down to the infirmary, as you are obviously delirious from the pain."

"I'm not delirious from nothin. I speak the truth! And the truth cannot be silenced." Her words were starting to slur slightly, backing up his statement.

"Uh-huh. March your behind down to the infirmary. Pronto. Your worried brother's orders."

"Psshhhhh, you're always worrying."

"What can I say? You're a worrisome sister to have; now go." He gave her a gentle nudge towards the infirmary.

"Alright, alright, I'm goin! Bossy.." He watched her swagger off, a soft smile tracing his face, before he turned off and went to find Ilyana to give her the unfortunate news.

(ATTN: Open)

Collab between JerriLeah7 and I

-Infinity Edge Guild Hall, Ilyana's Office-

Making his way up to Ilyana's office, Ham was greeted by many friendly faces; faces he knew were probably just at dejected at their progress as he was. July might have been right, he was worrying too much about it, but they still needed progress, a lead; some chance to get back at those Dark Ascension bastards.

Ham stopped at the door to Ilyana's office, rolling his shoulders nervously, exhaling all the anxiety he'd built up on the walk here. Straightening himself, he knocked on the door.

"Yeah,"  Ilyana says, without looking up from the magical sympl before her.  It is written largely upon a massive sheet of paper that is opened up across the entirety of her desk's top surface.  It's colored in with a deep brown ink and she's inspecting it heavily as she says, "What can I do for you?"

She tries very hard not to scratch at the bandages around her torso.  They are itching so bad and the healing process really sucks, sometimes.  The pain is amplified when she subconsciously scratches at the healing wound at her center.

Ham takes one more breath, and enters. Posture perfect, dignified, but somewhat more relaxed than he was outside the door.

"Ilyana, I've returned. I wish I had better news," He  walks towards her desk, not too quickly, closing the door behind him. "I'm afraid July and I could find no more traces of Dark Ascension. We traced every lead we could find, and yet we turned up no-" Ham stops, looking at her, her bandages, the grimace on her face. He pauses his train of thought, wondering if words of sympathy would bring her any comfort.

Ilyana sighs, "No prob, we'll get them.  Listen, Ham.  I need a favor."

Ham tilts his head slightly, raising an eyebrow. "Name it, it will be done."

Sitting up from the paper, she leans back in her chair and lays her head against the back wall of her office, letting herself relax for the first time in quite a while.  She tosses her inkwell into the trash and brings her tired hand over her chest with closed eyes and a tired expression.

Ilyana says, "I have never taught anyone to activate my seals.  If I teach you this, you cannot share this information with others, outside of your sister.  This also means that when you activate my seal for me, after you deliver it, you cannot do so in front of anyone else."

Ham blinks, surprised, and also deeply touched by the amount of trust she placed in him with this.

"I swear I'll share this information with no one else, and I shall do so with the utmost discretion. You have my word." There is determination in his voice, knowing the dedication to secrecy this would require. He considered not even telling July, but then he quickly tossed the idea away; of course he'd tell her.

"Though, while I am honored, I must ask; why me, and why do this now?"

Ilyana looks up at him, her eyes blank as she finally opens them.  Crossing her arms, she finally says, "I'm going on a Quest and I'm taking some people with me...but I want to have a "sign" if shit hits my Guild Hall again.  I know that our Trustee can handle shit, but...I'll want to know.  The symbol I made will alert me if the Hall is attacked.  You'll activate the glyph when no one else is in the hall.  Late at night is your best bet.  I'd do it myself, but...activate requires a lot of magical energy and just creating this glyph is going to eat what I have."

Now Ham's very curious. "Must be an incredibly important quest for you to dedicate yourself to it right now. But I will take care of it; 'Discretion' is my middle name, after all. " Ham smiles slightly, looking her in the eyes. "I can handle it, magic wise as well as making sure it bears no witnesses."

"Great," Ilyana says, nodding her head, "Great.  Okay, I'm taking you and your sister with me, by the way.  So, um.  You guys should pack to leave tomorrow morning.  I don't yet know who else I'm taking, other than Sylmeria...hold that door shut for me, will you?"

Ham raised an eyebrow, backing up to press himself against the door.
"I must say our timing seems very convenient." He crosses his arms. "It must be one hell of a mission to require two 'S' ranks; namely, you. You and I are usually the ones staying back to protect the town, I rarely ever see you leave. Me, I go where I'm needed, even though I usually stay here; but you're this towns guardian, and you take pride in that."

"Yeah," Ilyana says as she stands up, "I think Kennot can take care of things, though.  I doubt Ascension will be stupid enough to hit us again."

Ilyana looks down at the paper and then back towards Ham as her hands move through the air.  She whispers something under her breath as her eyes suddenly become a bright, glowing gold.  Her two index fingers begin to trace through the air, and gold magic follows them as her glowing eyes dart back and forth from her air symbol to the glyph drawn onto the paper to compare.  This process takes several minutes before the symbol is finally complete.  It isn't perfect, but it is close.

"Pay attention to this part,"  Ilyana says, her eyes still aglow, "This will be how you activate it."

Placing her palm out, facing away from her chest and towards Ham, her fingers spread wide as her palm rests against the glyph's center.  Inhaling deeply, she focuses her gaze until she finally exhales with soft words, "Archon's Watch."

Then, the great glowing, sand-like magic within the air solidifies and forms into what looks like a metallic, gold-like metal.  Taking it in her other hand just before it falls to the desk, she places each hand on either side of the circular symbol and folds it with ease, halving it twice and then handing it out to him with a small smile.  Her eyes are now no longer glowing.

Ham watches at attention, no matter how long he does this, no matter how long he works with her, he will always stand in awe at Ilyana's magic. He makes sure to remember every movement, every detail, determined to not get anything wrong.

When all is done, he takes it from her, tucking it carefully inside his vest.

"It will be done." He nods to her. "Though, are you alright? I know you said this would take a bite out of you." He is careful with his words, he knows she is not weak, but with everything that has been going on, with all that they've already gone through, he wants to make sure she's not overextending herself the day before they are set to leave.

"I'll be okay,"  Ilyana says tiredly, "I really will.  I'm not quite up to a hundred percent, but...I'll get there.  I just want to ask you one more thing.  After that, you're free to go."
She looks at him as her voice lowers to a whisper, looking incredibly serious as she moves over to the other side of the desk where Ham is standing.  She leans up against the desk, almost sitting on it as she gestures him closer.

Ilyana asks very seriously, "Would you want to...spend the night in my room?  I know I'm older than you, but I promise, I can hold my own where it counts."

Ham is unsure if he heard her correctly. He smiles politely. He had surely heard that wrong; he was interpreting it the wrong way. He blinks once.

Twice.

Three times.

No, he had definitely not heard that wrong.

He clears his throat slightly, feeling the tops of his ears begin to redden. Of course he'd thought about it; who wouldn't? Ilyana was strong, beautiful, dedicated; and Ham did love a woman who could kick his ass. He maintained his composure, years of lessons in manners and keeping cool under pressure finally being put to good use.

He smiled, smoother, realer, nothing tense or mannered about it. "I do not doubt that, I've seen you work. You can be intimidating when you want to be."  He can feel something kick in his chest; probably similar to how Juliette felt being punted through that window. "But, I would enjoy nothing more, my lady."

'Yeah, bring out those years of courtly charm, Ham, and make sure your sister, never, ever finds out about this.'

"Great," Ilyana says, brightening with a smile as she returns back to her chair on the other side of the desk, "Then I'll be seeing you later.  I'll look forward to it."

Hamlet gives a slight, courteous bow. "I shall take my leave, then. I look forward to this evening." He took his leave, swiftly and silently through the door, walking back down the hall, trying to force himself to retain the regular color of his face until he was at least to his room.  ''I look forward to this evening'? Really Ham? Good to finally see how rusty you after years of not so much as winking at a woman. If Juliette finds out she's going to have a field day.' Ham was mentally kicking himself; but on the outside he looked calm as ever. To most.

He knew July would notice the redness in his ears; and he knew he couldn't avoid her.

Spirits, she was never going to let him live this down.

Whatever, he'd lay down the spell in the main hall and then;

He decided not to think about it until later.

Much later.

[Attn: Sylmeria, Open]
--Infinity Edge Guild Hall; Infirmary--

Nymeria sat at her desk doing the same work she'd been doing for the past few weeks. Every so often, a person to donate  blood comes in, who's blood requires separating into individual components. Nymeria ran the centrifuges used to separate the blood before she took it to storage. It was one of the few positions in her expertise that she was trusted to fill. The guild's blood bank had been slow, compared to when war had ensued between Dark Ascension and the other guilds. However, this left Nymeria more time to work on her side project. She used this time exclusively to practice her theorized ability to manipulate 2 bodies at once. The war provided many corpses belonging to nobody mercs without a family or a guild. It was an opportunity that usually never happened.

As the centrifuges spun, Nymeria thought about Edel lying in Nymeria's room. She had managed to convince everyone that the body was her close sibling, using their similarly colored eyes as evidence. Still, the constant front she kept up caused her to feel like she was developing a mental disorder. She wasn't sure if she would ever get used to her body and Edel looking at each other. And yet, seeing someone with the same eyes as her gave her a sense of security that she hadn't felt in a long time. She always believed in strength in numbers, but she couldn't remember the last time she met someone with red eyes like her. Before she got too lost in her disjointed thoughts, she took one batch of separated blood and contained each component in separate bags. Carrying the bags to the big freezer, she caught Sylmeria leaving the infirmary.

Nymeria was happy the girl found some work that made her the least bit happy, but thoughts of her haunted Nymeria ever since Dark Ascension's attack. The underlying guilt she's encountered made experiments more difficult to conduct. Memories of Sylmeria's attempted suicide flashed every time Nymeria toyed with Edel. Even as Nymeria carried the blood cells and plasma, she subconsciously repressed the thoughts about those who died by her choices. She took the bags to the freezer and walked back to her office, stone-faced. The centrifuges continued to spin without a hitch. Sitting at her desk, she meditated on her place in the world, and reminded herself that her work would help everyone in the end.

Ilyana had only been alone in her office for a few minutes when another knock came on her door.  Thankfully, her glyph art was mostly put away.  She must be popular today.  She folds up some more of the ink art that is scattered about her desk top as she is standing up, leaning down over them and trying to find some means of organization among the mess.  "Enter."

Claire entered the door with Ryuko in tote. "Ilyana, I bring a new person who wishes to join our guild." She said as she stood tall. She wanted to make sure she looked good in front of their guild master and the new person. It wasn't often that she was able to bring someone upstairs to meet her.

"Oh," Ilyana says simply, looking the newcomer up and down as she sets some of her papers down.  She steps around the desk, moving up to the two of them to give Claire a warm embrace of greeting before bowing to this new girl, whomever she may be, "Hello.  I'm Ilyana.  A pleasure to meet you.  And you are?"

Ryūko observes as Illyana warmly welcomes Claire, only to be caught of guard when the Guild Master turns to her and bows. Ryūko bows herself, with a form more akin to the customary posture of bowing in her own homeland. “Kon’nichiwa. Ryūko. Tanaka Ryūko,” she says. “Hajimemashita.” She stands upright. “I come from… well, I currently reside in Kinley – a small port city to the south. I am what I suppose you would call a mercenary.” She maintains an unflappable demeanor, an acute respectfulness, and a demure quality, even faced with a figure of such influence.

With a smile, Ilyana's arms gesture a welcome to the chairs on the other side of her desk before she takes a seat, herself, on its other side.  Her eyes are suddenly glowing as she faces them again, the brilliant white-gold lighting up her face.  She shifts in her chair, getting comfortable as she looks to Claire and then to Ryuko again with a quiet calm.

"What would you like to contribute to Infinity Edge, Ryuko?"  Ilyana asks.

Claire stays quiet as she listens in on Ilyana's and Ryuko's conversation. She know's this part is important and what Ryuko says can effect her entry. She takes a seat in the chair and puts her hands together with interest.

Ryūko takes her seat across from Illyana, peering momentarily into the woman’s mesmerizing glowing eyes. She glances down with contemplative expression for a moment. “My contribution?” she says more to herself than anything. “Since I was small, was raised as an outsider among a clan of renowned Samurai in my homeland. I’ve studied kenjutsu under some of its most noted practitioners. And I’ve spent the majority of my adult life honing those skills through my work for others. Tsundre-san. I would contribute, to you and your guild, what I have for others in the past. My blade.” She gestures toward the empty sheathe at her hip, tapping it lightly with her finger.

Smiling again, Ilyana nods, "Yes.  You are a woman of honor.  Integrity.  Your soul is inherently good.  I admire that.  You have your own code, I sense.  I would love to learn about that.   Would you humor a battle with me in our field?"

Ryūko blinks, uncertain of how to respond. Not so much at the invitation to a sparring match, but to Illyana’s interest in her code. Still she quickly snaps out of it and gives an affirmative nod. “Hai,” she says.

"Claire, please escort Ryuko to the field," Ilyana says, standing up, "I'll fetch Kennot and we can get started right away."

Claire stands and bows to Ilyana. "Yes melm. Please follow me Ryuko." She said.

Claire leads Ryuko down stairs and out the back door. "Our practice field is right out here." She said. She opens the door and lets Ryuko out and then closes the door behind her. She then walks out back where the practice field is. "We can wait here for her."

Ryūko follows Claire quietly as they near the practice field. Upon their arrival, she takes in the scenery. No mere field, but an entire courtyard’s worth of training equipment and space. At one end are archery targets, many with arrows protruding from their faces. Barrels and racks around the yard are filled with weapons – swords, spears, morningstars, mostly Western weaponry. She say few items native to her own side of the world.  At the center of it all are two sparring grounds – one a floor, with a marble white finish, well suited for martial arts; the other a dirt floor with a chalk white line, drawn across center, and surrounded by lush, green grass.

Others occupy the yard, some sitting at benches around the space, others taking to their own training, be it practicing sword swings, sparring with partners, or exercising their magical abilities. Ryūko observes, folding her hands in front of her. “There’s something familiar about this,” she says to herself with a reminiscent smile.

"Illyana should join us soon. I hope you like the practice field. We have all the finest equipment here to help with training. I wish you luck during your spar with Illyana. She is very strong." Claire said. She looks around the yard and sees others training and sitting around with others. She smiles as she is proud of her guild and how they have handled so much in the past and even currently. "Tell me, why is your sheathe empty? Is your sword a special one?" She asks. She was highly curious about this new person now that she had met with Illyana.

Ryūko glances over her shoulder to Claire as the woman speaks up. She looks down at her sheathe, then nods to Claire with a faint laugh. “Ee,” she says _(Ee, or ええ basically casual Japanese for ‘yes; that is correct, right’)_. “One could call my blade special. I’ll show you during the match.” She cocks her head to the side with a friendly smile.

Ilyana steps out into the field with Kennot in tow.  Although he's a wild looking guy, his scraggly appearance somehow still works.  He doesn't say anything as he steps out, simply finding the nearest chair and sitting in it with a polite quietness.  His eyes are glowing as soon as he sits, ready to watch.  Ilyana has her longsword, now, white and gold item sheathed at her hip.  Stepping out onto the grassy field, Ilyana looks apologetic as she waits for Ryuko to come closer, "Apologies.  I have little mana left today.  I won't be able to do much to challenge you, but just give me enough to assess your skill and we should be good to go."

Kennot calls out, clearly sounding annoyed, "You're almost outta juice."

Ryūko follows Illyana to the grass field, giving her a likewise apologetic smile. “Then you will perhaps forgive me if I seem a bit rusty?” she says. “Ā, Gomen’nasai. Between the trip here and my last job, I’ve not had much time in the past few days to draw my blade.” With that, Ryūko settles at her side of the field. Her expression flattens and she closes her eyes. She brings her hands to her sheathe, steadying it with one, and holding the other as if she’s gripping the hilt of a blade that isn’t there. The world around her grows jarringly quiet, but a static energy fills the air around her. When she opens her eyes again, they take on a dragon-like quality with slit irises, and burning red color. “Ryūjin!”

Ryūko pulls her sword-hand away from her body and a spark of light ignites between it and her sheathe, materializing in a ray of light. Once fully drawn, Ryūko spins this light in her hands, causing it to take form as a long, fine katana, giving off a spectral glow. As the blade takes form, it projects the roar of a mighty dragon, and her aura briefly depicts one, itself. Then she spins the blade again and, in one fine motion, perfectly sheathes it, assuming her sheathed stance. Her now drake-like eyes gaze across the field to her sparring partner. “Iku zo.”

Ilyana slows her breathing, trying her hardest to ignore Kennot in the distance as she relaxes her muscles.  She watches Ryuko ready herself and then she follows suit, assuming her strange, foreign words indicate that she is ready to begin.  She does not summon her own magic, instead choosing to assess the sword skill of her opponent, first.  Pulling out her sword, the simple blade looks quite plain in comparison, but the magic within it is still undeniable.  A low, ringing hum is heard as soon as the blade is drawn, constant in its steady tone.  

"By the light," Ilyana says, the blade's hilt now shining with a pulsing glow as she then moves forward to strike the magical blade before her.

Claire is mystified by Ryuko's sword. It is indeed some form of magic sword. She takes a seat near Kennot to watch the fight as it progresses. She knows this is an assessment test but even an assessment test could cause someone to go to the infirmary. She always did love to watch Ilyana fight though. This time was no exception.

Ryūko narrows her eyes as Ilyana charges her. She takes the slightest step back before drawing Ryūjin from its sheathe part way to parrying the oncoming blow. Through the strike she remains solid as a rock and Ryūjin flashes only at the moment of the impact. She is strong, indeed. As expected of a Guild Master. Ryūjin?

Before Ryūko, in the realm of her own mind a spectral dragon appears at her side amidst an empty void. One only she can see. Here. Do you sense it as well?

Spiritual energy emanating from her blade.

Hm. Exercise caution.

Ryūko bounces Ilyana’s blade back before sheathing her own, and re-assuming her more defensive, sheathed form.

Ilyana smiles, happy with the response.  Ignoring the voice echoing in her mind, she strikes again.  This time, however, she moves full speed and her sword's light increases upon impact of Ryuko's blade after it is redrawn with lightning speed.  With widened eyes, Ilayana expresses her surprise with a bit of laughter before nodding her head with approval.  She tries this a few times from different directions, but she can't make it past her opponent's blade.  This will make any quick strikes a bit improbably, but it's still shows incredible footing and reflexes on Ryuko's part.  "Good, great skills.  Time for some fun."

As she speaks, it sounds like her normal voice, but halfway through her words, another voice joins her own, speaking simultaneously as she does. A deep, manly voice which almost seems whispy, like an echo of a ghost. Her eyes have gone black, now, but the gold smoke still emanates from them. Slowly, white, gold, and transparent plates appear over her body as her sword is held out before once more, ready to attack.

The voices say: "Blade of Retribution"

The sword glows a bright gold and becomes longer and length, pulsing with power as wings of gold with brown flecks form on her back. She rises up on the ground with levitation and she soon charges downwards at her opponent from above, this time using both her magical prowess and gravity to her advantage.

The barrage of strikes comes as little shock to Ryūko, who remains unflinching through the bulk of the assault. With every clash of the two blades, Ryūjin gave off a faint glow, easily mistaken for the simple sparks cast as the blades collide. And with every flash, Ryūko herself reacts that much faster. Still, her opponent hadn’t fought with even a fraction of her true strength yet. When Ilyana backs off for a moment, Ryūko doesn’t relax, returning to her defensive sheathed stance.

When the Guild Master undergoes some sort of… transformation, Ryūko narrows her eyes, watching her into the air. As her sparring partner dives toward her from the air, her grip on her blade tightens. Ryūjin.

I’m with you.

Just as master would say. “With your own strength, I will strike you down.” Ryūko winds herself back, taking a firm grip of Ryūjin’s hilt. “Ryūjin! Roar!”

Ryūko suddenly draws her blade towards her opponent, unleashing the energy built up in her blade over the course of the match in a fearsome aura wave attack, taking the vague form of the mighty serpentine dragon god, Ryūjin. The snaking energy wave from her sword roars like a dragon on its collision course with Ryūko’s opponent. Many of the less seasoned onlookers are dumbstruck by the spectacle - Angel versus Dragon.

Claire watches with the utmost interest in the fight. She's never seen a fighter like Ryuko before. Their guild has many fighters to offer, but none such as her. She has seen Ilyana's style of fighting before, however she notices that she is holding back this time. She wonders why. Though it could be because it's just an assessment test. Ilyana wouldn't want to hurt or mam the new person in their guild. She wonders how the fight will continue on. She is captivated as she silently watches.

As the dragon comes her way, Ilyana is amazed at her sudden grow in power.  The power is quite interesting to see, and as the dragon flies at her from the air, and Ilyana's blade, now brilliant in with its shine, strikes at the blue apparition and cuts in half.  Her eyes are wide with surprise at how easily it was to strike, expecting more from the ominous looking thing.

After the slice cuts through, the blade's aura of light vanishes and Ilyana lands on the ground, rather than striking her further.  She looks at the sword and realizes that there was more power than she had believed before, the original cutting through of her own blade merely a vague touch of what was really going on behind this girl's magic.  Impressive.

"So much for a tiny girl," Ilyana taunts, "If that is the best you can do, I'll hope to face your body guard next--there's no way you've made it this far without one."

Ryūko relaxes her posture only slightly. A friendly smiles settles upon her face. “Ā? Gomen’nasai. I seem to have misplaced him," she responds playfully. "You are quite strong. Returning the power of an opponent’s own blows usually proves more effective than that. Unless, of course, they were holding back. Tsundre-san.”

The spirit is a powerful one.

Ilyana nods her head, "I see.  Very well."

Placing away her sword, she removes her magical aura and her wings dissipate. Then, she looks back at Kennot with an inquiry, "B?"

Kennot shakes his head, "A.  Almost S."

She raises an eyebrow, but she doesn't combat his statement.  "A, it is.  Welcome to Infinity Edge, Ms. Ryuko.  Kennot there will give you our mark, whever you'd like.  Thanks for the fight."

Claire stood up clapping her hands. "That was an amazing fight. Great job Ryoko. You are a higher rank than I am. I want to congratulate you on your entry to Infinity edge." She said happily.

Ryūko eases her posture and dispels Ryūjin, the blade vanishing into thin air, dispersed into ethereal energy. She offers a friendly smile to Claire. “Arigatō, Lokhorst-san,” she says. Then she turns to Ilyana once more and bows with her hands firmly stationed at her sides. “Arigatou gozaimasu, Tsundre-san. It was an honor to clash blades with such a skilled warrior as yourself.” Then she directs her gaze to Kennot as Ilyana points him out.

She approaches him with a slighter bow. “Hajimemashita, Kennot-san.” She extends her left hand to shake. “I look forward to working with you all.”

Kennot places his hand over hers, smiling at her with a quiet "hey, girl" before their hands heat up, the light shining under his palm before he lets her go, revealing the mark.  "Too big?  Too small?  I can change the color, too, if you want.  I kind of made it shimmer, like your dragon ability there that you had."

Claire stands there silently as Kennot places the Infinity edge symbol on the back of Ryuko's hand.

Ryūko takes Kennot’s hand and shakes. She looks quizzically at the claps hands as they heat up, arching an eyebrow when she pulls away. She looks over the mark now present on its back. “Ā, it’s perfect.” she says with an affirmative nod. “I’m sure Ryūjin will approve. Arigatou.”

--Infinity Guild Hall, Infirmary--

Making her way to the infirmary, Juliette now realized how much her brothers company had helped her ignore the pain. Despite the stinging, she didn't falter, didn't grasp at her side. She didn't need to; she was used to doing much more strenuous activities in much more pain than this.

Still, that bastard.

One of their 'connection's' had set them up, leading them to some violent basket case who, when they approached him, had led them on for long enough to kick her through third story window. The boot did the shattering, she never actually hit the ground. She smiled slightly, the corners of her lips twitched upward, as she remembered the pale faced shock on her assailants face as she Void Reached back up into the window opening, crouching amongst shattered glass.

Oh, it was sweet.

What wasn't sweet, though, was the fact that they hadn't gotten a lick of information out of the entire damn fiasco. That, that was a bitter pill.

But, what was done was done, and July was more worried about getting herself fixed up than about their failed op. There would always be more chances; there would always be another way, they just had to find it.

She finally made it in, knowing Iris was somewhere down there.

"Hello, hello; look who's back and more banged up than ever- now, where's my favorite, sweetest medic to fix me up aaand chew me out?" She raised the arm opposite her injured ribs dramatically, spinning in a slight circle, raising an eyebrow as she waited for Iris to inevitably make her appearance.

Little Iris looked over at July, unsurprised by her presence.  She clearly recognized the voice all too well.  Her glare hardens as she points to one of the hospital beds, but she has no words for her as she turns away from her and continues to service the patient that she's currently working on.  The guy there looks at July, worried, as he always is.  Forga was always super sweet.

"Ma'am, she looks worse than I," Forga says.  As expected.

"She'll be fine," Little Iris says, "She can wait."

July looks over at them with a wiry smile, bowing dramatically with the hand that was just raised. She rights herself, looking to Forga, giving him a small, two finger salute.

"Yo, Forga; don't worry about lil old me, I'm fine; only reason I'm down here is because Ham thought I should get patched up. Plus I know everyone down here is always elated to see me." She winked at Iris as she walks over to, and subsequently hops right on, the hospital bed Iris pointed to. She pulls her scarf and overcoat off, leaving them laying behind her on the bed, leaning back on her hands, waiting for the medical assistance her brother egged her into.

Treyus looks over at July and then back at Iris.   He scowls, "Do you want me to get her, Iris?"

Little Iris shakes her head, "No.  She's mine.  Go check on Xiax for me.   I have  Syl."

"Aw, I just got back and you're already fighting over me. You do know how to make a girl feel special." The gentle ribbing, to excuse the pun, on July's part is further excentuated by her lounging posture, lightly teasing edge, and trace of a smile.

Iris slams one of her instruments onto the bedside table and Treyus jumps where he's standing.  He quickly exits the room as Forga talks about how he's feeling much better now before following suit.  Little Iris is sitll standing there, looking at the bedside table with the rage and contempt of a berserker.  She's just looking at it, faced away from July with a tense posture.

July doesn't flinch as Iris slams her instruments down, opting to raise an eyebrow. "You okay there, doc? My humor not so appreciated today? If you're mad, I'll let you break my other ribcage; barely even felt it when the first one got kicked, I'll be fine, I'm sure." Something in July's voice lowers, hinting at a genuinely attempt at an apology.

Turning around, Little Iris looks darkly at July as she brandishes a medical tool, "Why the hell not?  I mean, if you're gonna go around getting your bones broken, I could save us all a little time and just keep you here and break 'em for you."

With that, the girl moves over and begins to examine July, feeling around her torso to check at how she's doing.  She glares at her hard, but her touches are gentle and caring.

"Hey, now, I usually come out without a scratch. Stealth is my thing, get in, get out, don't go charging in face first with a sword; yadda yadda- it's Ham that wanted to try this whole 'Oooh, let's meet face to face with contacts! What's a dead drop? Oooooh!' shit." At this point July knows Iris is just being Iris. "Besides, you know you love me, my visits to your table and few and far between; and not because I have whiskey and an ice pack. Because Ham would force me down here anyway."

Iris's expression finally softens, "Yeah, whatever.  If I'm gonna have to follow you to your missions because of this shit, July...I'm gonna be pissed.  It's ridiculous how much more often you're in here than anyone else."

July had to fight rolling her eyes. Iris acted tough, but damn if she wasn't a melodramatic softie at heart. "Come on, you know you'd love to tag along with me. Sneaking behind enemy lines undetected, the thrill of the bad guy not knowing you're there, going in for the kill and making a dashing escape? You'd love it." She smirked. "So, how bad is the damage doc? Always told Ham being diplomatic wasn't my forte. Maybe now he'll finally believe me."

"I'm gonna get Cayd,"  Iris says, shaking her head, "Otherwise, this'll take forever to heal.  He'll lecture you, you know.  Good luck with that."

Iris walks away for a bit and then returns with Cayd, the magical healer of the whole guild.  He's not popular, because he tends to be an arrogant ass, but there you go.  He's the only one that Infintiy has.  Iris dislikes him with a passion, which makes working with him unbearable.  She rolls her eyes as he shows up at the table already talking.

"I hear you broke a rib and stuff,"  Cayd says, "Dude.  If I had been there, this wouldn't have happened.  I could give you some real stealth tips, because I'm really good at recon--"

"Shut it, Kid," Little Iris snaps, "You keep talking and I'll jam that medical badge of yours and shove it up your ass."

Cayd begins to quietly heal July's wounds...with a scowl.

July's wiry smile remains firmly on her face. "Got booted out a window by a kick happy weirdo because Ham decided to cast me as diplomat, didn't take." She listens in amusement as Iris feeds him his own ego. Ah, god she loved Iris, angry streak and all. "So how long is this gonna be Caydie, because I've got plans that don't involve listening to tall tales." The placid, void intensity of her gaze hopefully meant he wouldn't be making eye contact anytime soon; the gaze never worked on Iris, and she damn well know that- Cayd, however, was far from Iris.

Cayde rolls his eyes, "I told you not to call me that.  I don't tell tall tales, I'm pretty good, actually.  My mom says--"

"Yeah, we get it, mama's boy,"  Iris cuts in, "Why are you still talking?"

Cayde scowls, "It'll take like twenty minutes."

"Thanks for the estimate, Caydie." July tilts her head with a small smile, softening her gaze to one of vague amusement.

"UGH," Cayde drawls, "Do I have to treat her if she keeps calling me that?"

Iris glares at him, tiling her head with a small, quiet growl before she finally says, "I have to wake up to you in my infirmary every single day when you have little to know medical knowledge.  Do I have to go to work if you keep showing up in my workspace?"

"Such a lack of professionalism is unbecoming, Caydie. Lack of know how is one thing, but lack of even basic bedside manner? Aphalling." The sarcasm tinging her voice combined with her dramatic, empty gesture of indignance sold the humor of it all. "Besides, I know deep beneath all that hot hair you have a soft spot for me. Granted, it may as well just be rot, but soft rot, nonetheless."

Cayde's ears turn red with irritation, "Just don't talk to me while I finish this."

July gives a satisfied smirk, rolling her head back, closing her eyes, waiting for him to be done. "Whatever you say, Caydie."

After Cayde has finished his treatment, he tells her to stretch and to make sure she has full movement before he or Iris will release her.  When that's done, Iris stops her just as she's about to leave.  She moves in and says, "Listen.  Take care of yourself."

July smirks down at her, leaning down slightly. "Will do, doc, you've got nothin' to worry about. Long as you relax, you're gonna give yourself grey hairs." She gives her one last wink and a smile before pulling her coat back on and whisking out of the infirmary.


--Infinity Guild Hall, Private Rooms--

Once Juliette was free of the infirmary, feeling infinitely better, in part because her ribs were no longer creaking like an organ, in part because she got to tease Cayde, and in another part because Iris was always a refreshing escape to converse with - she sought out her brother. He wasn't hard to miss for her, one just had to follow the trail of blushing newbies whispering 'I think he looked at me!' to each other; a statement that the man himself hardly believed. She quickly found him, his height and manner of sophisticated dress making him easy to pick out. She quickened her pace, her fingers sinking into his arm as she jumped to surprise him. Surprisingly, he jolted.

"Oooh, I gotcha that time! Shocking. Maybe you oughta turn your shiny rank in if you scare so ea-" Juliette furrowed her eyebrows as she looked at him, before a wicked smile came to her face. "You're flustered."

Ham raised his chin in indignance, trying to hide the redness on the tips of his ears. "I am not, for one. Two, I have a favor to ask you. It's important."

Her wicked, cheshire cat grin only widened, though her voice lowered itself to a hush, to make sure no one could hear them. "You talked to Ilyana; that's why your all flustered! What did you two talk about? Ooooooh, was it something naughty? It was something naughty wasn't it! Got you all hot under the collar! No shame in it, Ham, we've all been there."

Ham rubbed the bridge of his nose with his fingers in frustrations, opting to not even acknowledge her questions. "Listen, Juliette," He finally responded in a hushed voice. "Ilyana needs me to set up an alarm, a magic one, in the guild hall tonight. I need a spotter, and I know when it comes to stealth you're second to no one- and there is no one else I trust more. Can you help me?"

Juliette scoffed. "Flatterer; you should know kissing ass with me gets no one nowhere. But; since you asked so nicely, I'll help." Her smile quickly returned. "Provided you tell me exactly what happened in that discussion between you and your lovely lady friend."

Hamlet sighed, knowing she wouldn't let this go, as expected. "Fine," He saw her perk up. "But tomorrow, and only if you beat me in Howler's chess." He looked down at her mischievously, knowing she wouldn't pass the offer up.

"Deal!"

Daisan

Everyone is curious when the new guy comes in.  Not only did he dress strangely, but he was not a current member.  Sheherazade is a tight knit guild, even if Daisan spends more time out on the field than here.  He immediately seeks out Miriam then disappears.  So this is the new guy…Sure he has heard of Iasrite Tsundre, any archeologist has.  Whether he is a fit for the guild is yet to be seen.


They disappear for quite a while leaving the other members to gossip and come to their own conclusions.  Miriam then calls the guild meeting.  Daisan joins the others in the main hall.  He is silent as the new leader is introduced.  “Hmm interesting.”  He says softly to himself as the new leader rejects the title of Rex.  He understands the reasoning, but at the same time it is a painful reminder that this is only temporarily.  This guy really does not want to be here.  I know Miriam is thankful to have him, but what about the other.  He looks at the person next to him and shrugs.  Could be worse, this guy probably will not get in the way of his normal routine at least.


As the meeting closes some brave souls walk up to the new guy to introduce themselves.  Daisan goes to the bar and orders two mugs.  He makes his way to Iasrite Tsundre.  He offers a mug to him.  “Daisan Zeruko, class C.  Hey Miriam, you are as pretty as ever.”  He winks at her before turning back to Iasrite.  “You probably won’t see much of me as I am out at sites, but I wanted to welcome you.”

~~~~~~~~~~

Kaimele

Early in the afternoon, Kaimele goes to town to do some shopping.  First thing was to fix her fans.  She goes to the weapons shop in town.  As she waits for the guy she looks around.  It was almost like the owner was expecting her because in the display case were a pair of new fans.  She looks at the price and almost walks away.  Then remembers that she actually has the money to get them now.

The owner finishes up before seeing Kaimele.  “Hello Kaimele, did you need me to work on your fans again?”


Yes, but actually what can you tell me about these?”  She points at the fans in the case.

His face lights up.  “I was hoping they would catch your eye.  They are quite a pair, and they are magical too.  One will drain life and the other will drain fatigue if used on an enemy.”

“Interesting indeed, and a good compliment, one will have to be careful with them though.  May I see them?”  She asks.

“But of course.”  He gets the key and carefully takes them out to hold.  “They may not be a colorful as your old ones, but the design makes up for it.”


“I will take them, but the price…especially since I still do want you to repair my current fans.”  Kaimele bats her eyes at him.

“You will get your current discount, you little vixen.  Hey I noticed you have a mark on your arm.  Congratulation on joining a guild.  I didn’t know you were a magi.”


Kaimele walks with him to the counter and sets her old fans on it.  “No rush on getting them fixed.  The new ones will do for now.  Thank you so much.”  She hands over the correct amount of coins. And picks up the new fans.

She finishes her shopping, returns back to the house to get ready for the show.  Clementina steps into town and makes her way to the Shell.  It is an outdoor theatre, but nice.  She is excited to be a part of this concert.  She practices a little with the fans to get the feel of them.  She is amazed by how good they feel in her hands.

She waits off stage until she is announced before stepping out.  The lights dim and the band starts playing.  Her dance has begun.  Like usual she lets the music take over as she moves around the stage.  The fans are unnecessary as this is a slower song, meant to show off her grace and beauty.  How ironic that this is the least make up she has ever worn.  The people thinks it is all costume though.  Her black hair is long, and she is wearing a more elegant blue dress that is made for dancing.  She bows as the song ends and rushes off backstage.

The band in playing another song as she changes costumes.  This one is a fairy one complete with wings.  She puts her signature purple wig on and adds some glitter to it.  The fans will be perfect for this dance.  

The music changes as she goes on stage again.  This time it is more cheerful.  Clementina seemingly bounces around the stage and uses her fans to point out the playfulness of the fairy.  

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Jacobi



Jacobi is not stupid, he knows that this mission required some stealth and knowledge.  He has to give the new guild credit, blowing up the DA hall is something he will do.  He hopes they got some clues as to who this mysterious V is or where they would scatter.  Not for one minute did her believe that DA is stupid, nor will they attack for no reason.  Is it the keys they really seek, or could it be something more?  It seems his first stop will be to this Star Sound.

Lord Crye is a good man.  He wonders if the Lord will remember him from the ‘old’ days.  If not, he will have to introduce himself and see what if anything they pulled out from DA before blowing it up.  First though a good meal and rest.  Getting to Terrenia city will not be hard at all.

Silk looks around the butler at whatever he’d thrown that blanket over, but she speaks nothing of it. She returns her attention instead to the man before her. “A pleasure. I happen to be new to this fine town. I acquired a residence in the area, where I’ll be setting up a fabric shop and tailor.” She twirls in place, showing the butler the fine piece of work she’s sewn together for herself.

As she stops twirling, she catches the brim of her hat, seeing to it that it stays down over the upper half of her face, its shadow obscuring her eyes. “While I’m here I’d hoped to familiarize myself with the local guild. I’ve heard such marvelous things of the esteemed Quinsennterra guild members, and was dying to know more of them. There is certain to be yet more I could learn from those among such beauty every day.” She giggles with a hand over her mouth. “Ah, but forgive my rudeness. I’m being woefully dishonest. Truthfully I had hoped to become a member, myself. Who would I speak to about that?”


Yuzu doesn’t even look up as Raeza takes her seat beside her. She continues staring into space, even as the woman speaks to her. But her ears perk up at the mention of a single word – promotion. She snaps back to reality, eyes wide. My what? Before she can bother to ask the woman, her attention is directed to the door. Her face drops and she brings herself to her feet.

Hands in her pockets, she makes her way to the kid, standing at the door. “Well, if it isn’t the tower tyke. Hi,” she says, leaning in the door frame. "Kid… what’re you doing, here? And why the hell’re you standing  out here in our doorway?”


Ryūko observes the notice, hung by Ilyana not long ago. "A mission?” she says. “Already? Hm. They must want to test me. Ā. I’ll have to tell Ryouma and Jubei I’ll be later than expected.” She then makes her way to the mess with her bag over her shoulder.

Taking her seat at a table, she removes a finely crafted lacquer-ware bento box from her bag and opens it. Inside is an assortment of Nihonese cuisine, all prepared by Jubei and herself. She folds her hands and bows slightly. “Itadakimasu,” she says quietly, before taking up her chopsticks and eating. Once she’s finished her food, she replaces the lid of the bento box and wraps it neatly in its cloth before pulling a notepad and pen from her bag. She proceeds to pen a letter in Kanji.

She heard Ilyana's voice bidding her enter and reached for the door handle. She closed her eyes and inhaled deeply, steeling herself up, then opened the door. "Excuse me, Ilyana," she said politely, her free hand to her chest as she closed the door behind her, "I apologize for the intrusion, but I needed to speak with you. If you have a moment...?"

Ilyana looks up from her newest glyph art and smiles pleasantly, lifting up her quill and gesturing the girl inwards with it before returning to her artwork, "Of course, Syl.  What can I do for you?"

Sylmeria took in the large parchment and quill. She pondered whether it was ancient magic. She startled slightly when Ilyana answered. Right. She was here for a reason. What was Rook's phrase? Grab the bull by the horns? She grimaced. Or had it been something about slamming the bull around until it gave you what you wanted...? Both sounded like the man.

She shook herself. She was babbling. In her head. "T-thank you," she said, stepping toward the woman's desk and giving a respectful bow. "It was brought to my attention that I'm on the board requested for a mission? I'm...confused as to what I might be needed for? Is this a diplomatic envoy of some sort...?"

Ilyana's smile shrinks a little as she looks up into the girl's eyes before her gaze returns to her work.  She speaks softly, "I am on a personal mission and I will need your help.  Both diplomatically and with means of morale.  I'm sure you understand how companionship can help during long travels."

"I-I see," Sylmeria responded. "Diplomatically, I'll do my best--I'll just need to know what we're seeking and whom we'll be dealing with--but morale? I...I'm not sure I would be of use there." Her eyes downcast to the floor. "E-especially your people..."

Ilyana laughs, "You're too hard on yourself.  Besides, the only ones in our group will be you and I, Nymeria, and Ryuko--and Ryuko wasn't there for the chaos, so she'll have no reason to judge you."

The woman's laughter baffled her. She looked at the woman, puzzled. "I...but...surely she'd have been informed?" Sylmeria inquired. "Wouldn't she...be understandably upset that her guildmates have been murdered by...by an outsider...?"

Raising an eyebrow, "She's new.  She can't mourn the losses of those she never knew.  However, she can be skeptical and choose to be wary--as any person should.  I highly doubt she'll draw conclusions of you based off of heresay--those of her culture are incredibly wise in ways that our culture won't contain--for the most part, anyway.  You'll like her.  That's one of the primary reasons why I chose her."

Sylmeria looked bemused. "You...chose her...to accommodate me...?" she said. "I...don't understand. My comfort has no reason to be a...a factor in a mission...?"

Ilyana shakes her head, adding another detail to her glyph, "Sylmeria, this is how Guilds work.  I know you haven't been on many missions, but here at the Edge, we help each other.  That's what I'm going to do while you're in my charge, so get used to it."

"I...guess...?" she said lamely. "Rook's general motto was 'Suck it up, buttercup! You're part of the job! Put on your big girl panties and stop whining!'" She smiled lightly as she later learned that Rook had taken the guys aside and told them that if anything untoward happened he'd have their guts for caulking. He wasn't near as rough as he pretended to be. Ilyana seemed to not need to pretend.

Ilyana sighs with disapproval, but her commentary regarding Rook is cut short as there is a knock on the door.  She says "enter" and Kennot pops in with a casual salute to them both.

"...'ey, ladies," Kennot says, "Sorry to interrupt.  Um, Sylmeria--you have a visitor to see you out front.  Just wanted to let ya know."

"Thanks, Kennot," Ilyana says before switching her gaze to Sylmeria, "You shouldn't keep them waiting."

Over the 2 months~~

It had been two months already since their quests had been canceled to go to war and help Infinity Edge against Dark Ascension. Ryushi helped a lot on the sides of the battle, creating barriers to protect the wounded or the medic barracks, helping and supporting. Everything felt like it just happened yesterday. And then there was the event of after the battle with Dark Ascension, where he tried to purify some of the land on his own. It had been of course quite foolish of him, but he had been saved from the grasp of an evil spirit by a good spirit of some beast that day. Chirron helped him back up when it happened and the spirit stayed by his side while he rested only so to speak with him. The spirit smaller form was one of a white fennec fox and his name was Eaden. It somehow spoke with Ryushi about wanting to purify the negative energy that had been on the raise as of late. They both agreed on the task as Ryushi himself would wish of nothing more but to purify the negative energy in the world and help both spirits and people in need.

From then on, Eaden followed him almost everywhere always calling him frail and weak, but Ryushi knew Eaden only showed that he was worried toward him. And he was happy about this. The other members of the guild were also able to see his small form well, probably since he was such a strong spirit that he was able to materialize unlike some others like Zedd who needed the help of some kind of magic armor to be visible to others.

White Cross Guild Hall / 6 PM

(ATTN : White Cross guild members/Chirron, Nadleeh)

As he came back from the council meeting by teleportation, Ryushi couldn't help but fall on his knees. The first teleportation wasn't too bad, but the second one ... it sure was hitting him like a truck.  The feel of extreme nausea was next.

Eaden saw the frail human come back from the said meeting by teleportation means. He spoke through the young man's mind. ''You should have let me fly you there. Seems your body cannot handle teleportation that well. ''

Ryushi took deep breaths and tried really hard to not puke. It's then that he noticed Amelia running to him.

''Hold on I'll help you ! Here.'' Without too much effort, she helped him slowly on his feet and let him rest on her shoulder while she started to walk slowly. ''Tell me if I'm going too fast, I'll get you to a seat. ''

''Thank you.'' He said, trying his best to follow her pace.

Eaden followed them in his small form and went to get Chirron right away. That guy would know how to ease the kid's pain sort of. He was still fascinated by how weak the guy could be physically.

Amelia managed to get him to a chair and turned toward Valentino who was a bit further, flirting as always. ''HEY ! Stop flirting and go get a glass of water for Ryushi, he needs it ! ''

Valentino simply said ''I'm sorry m'lady, I'll be back to you shortly.'' He then turned toward Amelia. ''On it.''

Zedd also got closer and seemed slightly panicked to see Ryushi in such state.

Timeskip Interactions

(ATTN : Closed)

Instead of going to a mission to kill some possible evil spirits or some shit, it seemed that their mission had been postponed because of more attacks that were going to hit Infinity Edge soon. A war raged and Ryla helped the best she could while trying to bring her enemies with salt and throw garlic while shouting some nonsense. What ? She had to use them somewhere didn't she ?! The war lasted quite a bit, however when it was finally over... all she wanted was to go home. She had been away for so long and she was hoping they would not have gotten rid of Rex's body yet. She needed to try to see who the killer was.
(The following text includes some important stuff about Rex's death. Collab with Leah7)

Spoiler:

That day she came back... after seeing this horrible vision and going back in her home. She locked herself away in the darkness of her room and started to cry every tears that she had in her body. The next day and pretty much every day after this she would go dig in the dig sites to vant out her frustration and pain. However more pain happened within two days after her arrival, the guild officially did a burial of Rex. Maybe a week later though... she got the visit of someone she sure did not expect while going on her daily digging.

(This one includes some more info about Ryla's new power and additional info toward Rex's case, Collab with Leah7)

Spoiler:

Ryla was happy to have Rodimus as a friend she could count on and he didn't sleep at her place, but he would come to visit frequently while he was ''ordered'' to keep an eye on her. Though she knew he was covering stuff they didn't need to know and she was happy about that.

Present / Dig Site Sherehazade 6PM

(ATTN : Open)

Ryla had found a few interesting things within the dig site and she was happy about that. However all at the same time she was so frustrated that she had yet to get any information about anything that was important. With frustration she started to hit rocks with her pickaxe more violently than ever, scaring the shit out of anyone that was close by ''DIE ROCK DIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE''.