*COMPLETED* Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

[Kat]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

Kurui was quick to bow her head respectfully when Jarelin entered the room before nodding in response to his question. Although Kurui noticed Rythe didn't do the same, the water major did catch a bit of nervousness to the brunette's voice when she spoke and gestures that indicated that, she too, was trying to respectful. There was a certain kind of comfort to it to Kurui... to see that they had this in common. Although Kurui figured Rythe hadn't grown up being taught it nearly as much or in as much detail as she herself had been, it was the effort and mindset that mattered. However, while everything Rythe was doing would make Kurui feel warm inside, Jarelin's reactions would be a different matter...

While nothing Jarelin said would be immediately hostile, or even dismissive of Kurui's claims, she couldn't help but find his restrained, almost dis-interested, tone similar enough to Black's that it put her on edge and made her uneasy. The same way Rythe's behavior made Kurui feel closer to the lightning major, Jarelin's behavior made it easier for her to imagine him as close to Black. She tried to suppress these uneasy feeling and instead focus on the comforting feeling of food in her stomach...
“It's OK, all nobles act like this. Even Vernan back in Veltria did. You have a plan Kurui, stick to it. Stick to it until he outright does something to make that impossible, his help will make this far far easier. Besides, 5 minutes ago you were afraid he would freak out and head out the door the minute he heard any of this...
From his perspective he has all the reason in the world to be skeptical of anything I say anyway. It's not like I'm anyone important, for all he knows I'm probably just a student trying to prank him. It's NOT because he's with Black...it's not. And if it is... then I've already said too much, there's no going back now...”

“I understand, sir. Lafton is not involved at all, he merely offered to walk me through the city, I felt I deserved to tell him what was going on in return. Considering what's going on, it would have been hard not to without a guilty conscious.” Kurui's voice had been surprisingly stable and so far, although as she went on the slightest cracks of stress would seep in just a little under the pressure of who she was talking to... and what she was about to ask. “As you probably know sir, the Royal Constables found nothing in their investigation. I expect most I speak to to find them the more trustworthy party. However, since I know they're wrong, from my perspective I have to assume they were bribed or otherwise manipulated. It is that same assumption that made me go to an outside source rather than ask anyone at the Academy for help, as I do not know what connections he may have there also. Had Lafton not assured me you could be trusted, I probably wouldn't have told you any of this to begin with...” Kurui tried her best to make this sound like it wasn't an insult before continuing, more nervousness showing now but her voice remaining fairly steady. “Yes... I have this recording. It is back at the guild hall and I'll bring you if you wish to hear it.” the thought of of another person hearing the contents of the recording was painful, but either from food or having gone through it once already, the bite felt like it would numbed for a second time around. Or perhaps it was just because Jarelin wasn't someone close to her... not a peer. Either way, she needed his help and had decided the trade off would be worth it if it came to that.”However... if I take you back to listen to it... if it really does prove Black tried to sell us to Syndicate like I know it will... I want you to promise me you'll help us. I want a promise that you'll write something up to let our help from the Order of St Lisle into the academy without any trouble or suspicion.” Kurui felt like she was making an ultimatum to somebody she had no right to be talking to this way, and it showed on her face, but it was a necessity. “If you don't believe me or don't want to risk it, thats fine, I'll leave and you can pretend I was never here. I'll never tell anyone I told you or Lafton a thing.... but I'm not showing off what I've gathered without a promise of help. It's a risk for me to do that, and I won't allow it just for the sake of curiosity. I... can't. The others... could die if this falls apart on me and Black finds out...Sienna could...”
Kurui took a moment to steady her voice and get her emotions back in order. During this, she gestured to Rythe for her notes that had the goblin's blood on them before placing them on the table out in front of Jarelin.
“It doesn't prove anything by itself, but perhaps it will help convince you I'm not lying. What you're looking at is blood from some sort of voidic goblin. I can promise you it's not fake, there might still be some planar energy you can pick up off it if you focus, we've also got an enchanted item that reacts to it. It would be pretty unlikely that students like me or Rythe could fake that. Now ask yourself why the Royal Constables haven't mentioned even the slightest trace of voidic activity reported around the mine... and if they're being honest then ask why I would even have something like this.
I'm not some summoner or Void worshipper looking to get myself burned alive by the church... not yet anyway... Black wanted me alive as “apprentice” of sorts... I wouldn't be surprised if he expected me to learn such things later. I have no other physical evidence with me, but if the blood doesn't convince you, I can also show you what he's taught me so far... He's taught me nothing voidic or illegal yet, but I'm certain they're things no RMA student could have learned on their own...”
Kurui could try to elaborate more, but she felt she got her best proofs out there... and that she had already talked longer than was appropriate considering who was addressing her. She instead silenced herself, and the next few moments would feel like forever as she waited for a reaction...

 

[Takimaru]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

"Not involved at all, you say..." replied Jarelin with a raised brow. "Somehow I doubt that, given some obvious emotional investment on my son's end." This caused Lafton to take on another look of protest, but at the same time it wasn't exactly something he could easily deny. The youth was something of a poor liar, and tended to wear his heart on his sleeve, which his father apparently knew quite well. "But I have a feeling that this time, regardless of whether I support him or not, he will do anything in his power to help you... even if it goes against my wishes," he added, glancing sideways at Lafton. "And that is exactly why I am choosing to be so thorough. If I had absolutely no reason to believe your claims, then we wouldn't be having this discussion."

Meanwhile, Rythe exchanged glances with Kurui momentarily, but was extra careful not to allow them to linger for too long. It was possible that she, too, found herself somewhat unnerved by Jarelin's tone.

He didn't seem fazed by this in the slightest, however, despite noticing the brief series of looks, and moved on. "Royal Constables... hmph. Many don't even receive any formal education for such positions. I wouldn't be surprised if they were merely incompetent in that matter. Although for such flags such as those Lafton informed me about to be present without being noticed, even by the constables, is quite peculiar, enough so to warrant suspicion. As for Black, well... teaching isn't even his primary job, though he is actually fairly respected in many scholarly circles for his contributions to science, military and otherwise. If he does indeed have connections amongst my peers, it would be quite difficult to tell who isn't on his side, other than perhaps his most outspoken critics, of which there are very few. It is... an intriguing matter, however, I must admit, and I can't say that I wouldn't be curious as to who would be reported to have such connections with the Redclaws," he mused aloud.

"Ah, good. Whenever you're ready then, just bring it back and--..." The man seemed about ready to dismiss Kurui for the time being, pausing when she added her extra 'conditions' as if they were the last thing he expected. "Promise, you say? Quite bold of you to request such a thing of a noble," he answered with a hint of amusement in his tone. "If this proof of yours is indeed something as definitive as you say, then I can surely do as much."

When the Water Major presented her first exhibit to him, the page soaked with the Voidic creatures' blood, Jarelin furrowed his brow and stooped down closer to the table to get a better look at it. He stared at it for quite some time, then, nodding to himself, looked back up at Kurui. "Indeed, I haven't quite seen anything like it. This in itself is remarkable, but unfortunately says nothing about Black's supposed relationship to the Syndicate, so I will still need to hear the recording. By itself, this will only have the defense accusing you of exactly that, being a Void summoner. Supplemental to more substantial forms of evidence, however, it can certainly be helpful. Before we leave, though, I can't help but wonder as to exactly what it is Black taught you. Would you mind demonstrating?"

 

[Kat]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

“I just told you people could to die! Stop being so infuriating calm about this! No, Kurui, don't say anything, keep cool...”
Jarelin's passive demeanor about about everything was nearly unbearable for Kurui now. She was able to keep the most prominent signs of it under control, but everything he was saying was stuff she already knew and came off with a kind of patronizing feeling that was an effort to fight. Normally she had enough humility that something like this wouldn't have been any kind of serious deal to her, but now, after everything else to happen the past few days, she felt like she was being treated as little more than a curiosity or amusement, much the same way Black had treated her. It was only Jarelin's apparent faith that Lafton already believed her, however reckless it was, that allowed her to endure it all.
“At least SOMEONE is on my side here...”
However, despite all Kurui's negative feelings about this whole encounter, Jarelin still hadn't outright refused to help her, and thats what mattered. Kurui tried to keep in mind that he also wasn't aware of the more... intimate aspects of her humiliation at Black yet... something she didn't plan on telling him until he heard it for himself, same as she had done with Lafton. For now though, there was a different piece of evidence to focus on.

“Very well, give me a second.” Kurui moved down towards the end of the table that wasn't being used, for the table itself was far too big for just three people, and brought some of the cloth napkins down with her. These shoe folded and placed next to each other to form a sizable “mat” on top of the table, a consideration that would stop any scratches to the wood as she prepared her test target.
“~~~~~~~~~”
Kurui chanted out an earth spell. Earth wasn't an element she was normally very good with, as she had almost no feel for homing in on different kinds of material on the other side of her spell gate like she did with water, something that would often lead to her just pulling out rubble or sand... but this wasn't a fight or anything stressful, and taking her time she managed to get lucky enough to pull out a slab of sandstone-like material about the size and thickness of small book and set it on the cloth.
“This will work fine, it's not super soft, but it's not sheer granite or anything really hard either... I should be able to damage it.”
“Ok, now watch carefully what I'm about to do. ~~~~~~~~” Kurui started a chant for chill powder, the same spell she had used on the delinquent in the practice hall earlier. The incantation was quick, and burrowed into a rather easy-to-reach area of the water plane, much easier than typical ice spells, of course this area had little more icey dust and wasn't usually practical for any serious offensive magic... usually. Kurui knew differently now.
The incantation completed, Kurui opened her gate to allow a mist of harmless powdery ice crystals to come through and held up her hand for everyone, but mainly Jarelin, to see. As an academy instructor, Jarelin would know the natural limitations of this spell without her having to explain. She then closed off the gate to build up the pressure and compress the powdered ice into a solid mass. Without a new incantation, it would be quite impossible for her to change where she was drawing the ice from, something the instructor watching her should know. A moment later she took aim at her target and prepared to fire. It was true she wasn't as good at this Black and had only limited practice, and it was also true she didn't have the cold focus she had when she was cornered earlier at the Academy practice hall, but this spell would be weaker than that and the practice she did have would be enough. When Kurui finally released her spell, a spike of ice the size of a knife shot forward at blinding speed to hit her target, it's tip piercing through the back of it when it came to a stop. Human bone was probably stronger than her target, but her point had been made. She paused only a moment before explaining.

“It's the same spell I showed off first. This time the ice and pressure compressed in the spell gate to dangerous levels. It uses a lot of magic to force spell gates like that... but it's faster than a regular ice spell would have been. It can be toned up even stronger than I did... and more tightly focused. Black can make water jets the thickness of needles that could probably pierce thin metal if he tried... and thats not even his main element. With his own element, lightning, he can control his gates well enough to focus lightning on specific nerves... where regular lightning only paralyzes, he can impose a level of actual control over someone... this is the kind of stuff he wanted me to learn from him.”
Kurui waited for a reaction now, hoping for something besides Jarelin's usual level of passiveness, either way though she would address the matter of her recording afterwards.

“If you still don't believe me, we can go listen to my recording... we go there though, I'm not bringing it back here.” It was getting late out, and pretty cold, but Kurui didn't mind. Cold wasn't worth losing her best piece of evidence. It was forward of her to be demanding that a noble follow her instead of her retrieving the item, but something about her getting it herself seemed off to her... suspicious... she decided trusting her gut was more important than trying not to appear rude... besides she had a full stomach of food to keep her warm now.
“The order of St Lisle won't like me taking stuff back and interrupting their efforts to help me. I'd rather not move around the recording too much anyway. Enchanted stuff has a habit of being... fragile. The cold may not be good for it during the trips... and besides, it's getting dark out... I've heard the theives and pickpockets from the outer districts sneak up here sometimes. I'm not going to break my recording in a fight.”
Kurui's excuses were mostly exaggerated lie in an attempt not to come off as COMPLETELY disrespectful, but never the less she wasn't going to move her best piece of evidence away from the safety of the Order now.
“Besides... knowing my luck one of those things really WOULD happen, no matter how low the odds....”

 

[Takimaru]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

As Kurui began her demonstration, everyone present, including Lafton, Rythe, and especially Lord Jarelin, looked on quietly with great interest. From her initial gate, the one aligned with the Earth plane, the dark-haired girl was able to generate a relatively flat slab of neatly striped sedimentary rock. It served well enough for what she was looking for. The other two Academy students put on looks of slight confusion at that, but only for a moment, as Jarelin continued to watch with his arms folded, awaiting the rest of the display with silent curiosity.

The initial opening of Kurui's second gate didn't get any new reactions from her three witnesses until she began to compress it, at which point even her peers seemed to notice that it wasn't exactly a common feat for a second-year Academy student. Jarelin, of course, seemed to know just what she was doing, and nodded to himself. "Mm, I see," he said as the icy blade buried itself deep into the summoned stone.

"Whoa..." said Lafton with visible awe upon his face.

"Is this what he's been teaching you?" asked Rythe, her expression showing that she was just as impressed as the Fire Major, if not more. "I mean, I'm lined up to be a gate theory major as well, and I don't even know how to do that. I think I see what you're doing and all, but I'm positive I can't even do that much!"

"Indeed," mused Jarelin aloud, taking a deep breath. "Let alone use such a technique with ice, which many Water Majors in your year are unable to consistently produce. And you are not looking to focus on gate theory? It's not something I could imagine a student easily learning on their own, though it still wouldn't quite suffice for the courts. Still, you do seem to have quite a bit of supporting evidence, at this point."

"But..." Lafton couldn't help but frown. "I don't understand why he's even teaching you this if he's just..." He wisely remained silent afterwards, catching himself before his tongue could slip.

Luckily, Jarelin appeared to ignore this, nodding towards Kurui instead. "Very well... if this piece of evidence is as definitive as you claim, then I'd understand your sentiment in guarding it so well. Allow me to fetch my coat, and I shall be going along with you." With that, he went upstairs, returning with a coat and hat. "I suppose it's to the Order with us, then."

With that, the four of them left for the Order of Saint Lisle. Predictably, it was somewhat darker by the time they stepped foot outside, but not quite pitch-black just yet. That wouldn't keep the noble from bringing a lantern, which he lit and maintained himself via the precise use of a conjured fire gate.

When they reached the guild, Brennir was there to answer the door once again, though the old man furrowed his brow when he spotted Jarelin. He looked to Kurui for answers. "Who is this...?" inquired the seasoned warrior.

"Lord Rodry Jarelin," replied the professor calmly. "I'm here to review a piece of evidence that I understand to be kept in this establishment."

Brennir put on a skeptical look, but on Kurui's approval he would open the door completely and let them in. "Can't say I've ever let this many mages in the Order at one time, hurrmmf... well, let me fetch it, then. Come in."

The man hobbled down the hall and to the left, where many of the files were kept. Those that Kurui saw from before were still inside, relaxing to one corner of the large guildhouse as a fire crackled in the fireplace. The two wounded soldiers rested while Raden idly sharpened his large, exotic blade while seated at one of the tables. Kurui, Rythe and Lafton's appearance didn't surprise him in the least, but he raised a brow upon spotting the older mage who was with them.

A voice could be heard from within the file room. "Ah, here it is..." The one-eyed swordsman emerged seconds afterward, with the pen in hand. "Who am I to hand this to?" His gaze turned to Kurui, as if awaiting for some sort of signal, should she feel the need to make one. It was clear that Brennir didn't trust the noble, though such sentiments could also be credited to his history with mages in general, which had been mentioned just hours ago.

 

[Kat]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

Kurui's spell worked perfectly and got the results she was looking for, even Jarelin seemed at least a little impressed... not enough to show it too strongly, but it was enough to keep Kurui from feeling patronized again. She was surprised he recognized what she was doing, and somehow that made it feel like less of something special, but it seemed impressive enough even to him... and besides she wasn't exactly a graduate herself and didn't know anyone who was, and thus didn't have the most accurate gauge of what more experienced mages were knowledgeable in.
Kurui also realized with a bit of surprise that this was the first time Rythe had seen any of this, she remembered promising to show her awhile back but had never actually done it until now. Her response was interesting... This for example, was the first time she had heard Rythe wanted to major in Gate Theory. It wasn't something she would have guessed, instead imagining the brunette to pick something more immedietely profitable, given her frugal nature. It made her aware just how short of a time they had actually known one another, despite how close they had become over the last few days. “Then again... she found it strange I was into Enchanting, so maybe it's not that unexpected after all...”
Lafton too seemed impressed by the display. Although almost to a point where he spoke without thinking. Kurui wasn't sure if caught himself on his own or if her tensing up had stopped him. Either way, it wasn't any sort of result she could complain about.
“Perfect, three for three... For as much as Black can go rot in the Void, I'm glad I took the time to actually practice this.”

“Ice is still difficult for me...” Kurui responded to Jarelin's comments. ”I can produce it consistently, but it still eats up a lot more of my magic than is practical; and it's harder to pull through than actual water, limiting my gate size and keeping it small. However, Black seems to think it shows I have some kind of ambition or drive that sets me apart from what he considers spoiled wastes that make up the rest of his students... as if I believe that and all he has to do is appeal to that and then suddenly I'll fall in line and let him mold me to be like him... I'm not like that, what I know of magic is because I love it and find it interesting, not because I want to prove I'm above anyone.”
Kurui caught herself getting a little too emotional for current company and gave a small cough to change her tone back to something more fitting.
“We can leave for the Order whenever you're ready. Thank you, sir, for accommodating my request.”
This last part took little effort, as she really was thankful he hadn't rejected her request. After all, it was a pretty forward thing for her to be asking of a noble.

The trip to the guild hall went quicker from the estate than it did from the RMA campus, although Kurui couldn't help but get cold anyway. It was later now, and even with a stomach full of food and actual energy to burn, the air had gotten cooler. It didn't help that all she had was her regular RMA uniform. She had chosen to leave Lafton's jacket behind, not wanting to look childish bringing it with her like it was some kind good luck charm or child's blanket. “It's fine Kurui, just try not to look stupid by shivering too much. If this is the worst thing to happen for the rest of the night, then you have no right complain compared to what the others back in the mine are going through... if they're even still alive...” Despite these thoughts though, she was still grateful when they got to the guildhall and Brennir let her in without too much of a fuss the air inside there was nice and toasty, heated by a warm fire in the corner.
“Thank you Brennir, I apologize for the inconvenience and showing up again so soon. I've kind of had to improvise a bit as I go...” she added quickly as the large swordsman went off to gather the evidence Jarelin had requested afterwards. Once he came back however, her demeanor changed quite considerably. She snatched the pen up without a word, almost possessively so. None of this was out of spite towards the swordsman or his order, but rather out of stress at what was to come, something she hoped he would be aware of.

“Please, follow me.” She directed towards Jarelin while flicking the pen into it's play cycle. Wordlessly she lead him to whatever corner of the hall was farthest away from everyone else, not wanting any larger of an audience than necessary for this, even though the others already knew what on the recording. “I recorded 15 minutes of silence before bringing this into to catch Black with. I had hoped that if he found it, played it back, and heard a few minutes of nothing, that he wouldn't think I was trying to act against him.” This would be the only explanation she would give before falling back into silence for the rest of the wait. Despite her best efforts to remain calm and proper though, as the minutes ticked away her breathing picked up and far more obvious signs of stress than she had yet allowed to show are Jarelin started to become obvious as she looked almost on the verge of a panic attack. Before anything came of it though, finally the recording would actually start...
Hearing the recording again... or perhaps being aware that someone else was listening, put Kurui in a whole new state of silent panic. Now she sat wordlessly, barely breathing, her hand clutching the playing pen so tight her knuckles were white. The only other movement she would make the entire time was turning her head down towards the table and pulling the hood of her cloak as far forward as it would go, as if to hide her face from everyone present. She allowed the recording to go through most of the important content, despite feeling like she was in physical pain and dying the whole time, but when it finally started to progress to the sounds of sex, Kurui only managed to make it a few seconds before forcing her numb hand to fumble with the pen and turn it off.

“...Do you believe me NOW that Black is a fucking bastard?!”
Kurui was sobbing now with her head practically buried in the tabletop, despite her best efforts earlier not to get to this point. Now however she didn't care that she was crying, didn't care that she had just sworn in front of a noble, didn't even care that her voice had obvious signs of hurt and anger in it because he hadn't believed her earlier.

 

[Takimaru]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

Brennir didn't say a word when Kurui snatched the pen out of his hand, allowing a quizzical look to take over his features for only a moment before appeared to notice the drastic change in her expression. Afterwards, he turned away quietly with great care, then moved to where the other knights sat afterwards to rest and engage in light conversation, leaving the girl free to move onto much heavier matters.

And heavy they were. The matter wasn't made much easier by the fifteen minutes of silence that passed when she finally brought herself to activate the enchanted item, which, again, must have felt like an eternity to the girl, who brought the man to the farthest end of the hall, closest to the entrance, as it was a healthy distance away from the mercenaries. Rythe and Lafton remained several feet away, still visible out of the corner of Kurui's eye. Jarelin simply nodded in response to her initial explanation, folding his arms and raising a hand to his chin, as if awaiting the first sound to escape the pen, regardless of the supposed delay. Though he still kept part of his usual air of somewhat unnerving calmness about him, if the noble was ever capable of at least hinting interest, it was at that time.

Then, it began. The professor remained absolutely silent, listening intently to the details of the evidence that was given. Had Kurui bothered to even do so much as give him a glance, she would see that his brow had furrowed in genuine concern, and that his mouth had even formed a frown upon hearing about how casually Black referred to the Redclaw Syndicate as well as its dealings in Elynsorian society. As the recording went on, with the replay of the Water Major's voice growing more nervous, and that of her teacher's growing more suggestive, Rythe turned her head to the side and cradled the side of her cheek with one hand, while Lafton stood there with fists clenched and jaw tightened.

After Kurui finally shut it off, halfway through the sound of one of her own lewd moans, she felt a warm body gently embrace her, one that sniffled and trembled against her back and shoulders. It was Rythe, and she had quickly broken down as well, sobbing quietly.

Lafton stood nearby in silence, giving his other father a somewhat sore look, as if to blame him for the additional stress that the dark-haired girl had to endure. "Isn't that enough already, Father?!" he asked boldly with a sharp tone. "She's already played that damn recording more than she should ever have to!" His volume wasn't quite at a yell, but his words were laced with more anger than he had ever expressed before.

Despite his son's apparent defiance, Jarelin would not allow himself to be shaken, only giving Lafton a brief glance before turning his gaze forward. However, at the same time, he didn't quite deny Kurui's request, nodding slowly with a solemn look on his face in response to her question. "Yes. This will work," he declared, unfolding his arms and allowing his body language to soften just a notch. "I... apologize, for having doubted you on such a sensitive matter," said the scholar, bowing his head. This earned him a surprised look from Lafton, who looked dumbfounded at his father's reaction.

Jarelin released a sigh. "That's enough for tonight. Let's head back to the manor. You can rest there, and I will have what you need prepared for you by the morning," declared the noble. When Kurui was ready to stand, Rythe would do the same, while Lafton stood nearby, looking at the blue-eyed girl as if he wanted to say something, but he ultimately failed to. It was the first time that even he had heard the recording for himself. With no better answer, he hugged her tightly, if just for a few seconds. It was a bold move, especially in front of his father, but the statement was made, even if Jarelin had already turned towards the exit halfway through. Afterwards, the Water Major was free to hand the pen back to Brennir before following the noble out into the guildhouse, along with Rythe and Lafton.

~~~~~​

When they returned to the large estate, Jarelin exchanged a few words with the maids that greeted them, then turned to Kurui. "Have another meal, if you wish. The servants will prepare your rooms shortly. I will be in my study," he announced before making his way up the stairs.

The other Academy students lingered around Kurui in the lobby, as if waiting for something. Rythe wiped her face a few times, noticing the mess she came to look like, then finally looked to Lafton. "Do you have a bath somewhere? I need to soak a little bit."

"...Ah, yeah, of course. It's just over here, to your left," replied the youth.

"Alright." The Lightning Major turned her attention to Kurui afterwards. "But if you feel like you need to first, then go ahead."

 

[Kat]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

Kurui kept her head down in the moments following the end of the recording, and as a result she didn't catch Jarelin's solemn expression. Even Rythe's comforting embrace behind her and the sound of Lafton's defensive objections on her behalf didn't make her feel like showing her face to somehow who might judge her in the worst of ways.
It was only when Kurui finally heard Jarelin's voice a moment later, some of it's stern edge now gone and promising to help her, that she finally looked up... as if needing to guage his face for herself to make sure she had heard right. Seeing that she had she quickly tried to wipe away some her tears with her arm and compose herself, although her efforts didn't stop her sniffling and broken voice completely.
“I'm sorry... I should have... said something earlier. But I was afraid... afraid you might think... I mean... I don't know how you can even look at me...”
Despite Jarelin having clearly invited her back into his home and not hating her yet, she continued on between fits of sobbing, perhaps more for herself than for Jarelin's sake.
“I... I didn't have a choice... I didn't have a choice he was going to kill me! ...maybe better if I did die... maybe better if I had just been buried in the cave in... but then everyone else would have died... maybe they're dead already... but... even then if I didn't do it he was going to kill Sienna! I did what I had to do! I DIDN'T HAVE A CHOICE!
I didn't have a choice...”
Kurui put her head back down for a few moments more and cried out some of what she was feeling, but soon she was able to stop herself and shakily make her way back to her feet. She now felt more awkward than anything for the breakdown she had just had, however Lafton's surprise hug helped calm her down. At first she had tensed up at being “grabbed”, but a second later her brain caught up to her instinct and told her it was OK. It was more than OK actually, it felt good... safe... she inwardly cursed herself for letting Black have programmed her to be so afraid of anyone male getting near her though.
“*sniff* Alright... lets go back. I'm OK now, I promise.”
She handed her pen back to Brennir on the way out with a quick apology for causing such a scene and headed towards the door.

~~~~~​

The trip back to the manor had chilled Kurui worse than the trip leaving had, something she credited to burning up all her energy crying, but she didn't start shivering or anything. Showing any kind of response to the cold seemed like too much effort now... however she was still glad when they stepped back into the warm air of the manor.
Kurui was grateful for the offers of hospitality Jarelin had made them upon returning, however she found herself just wanting to sleep now more than anything. It seemed to her that she had been doing a lot of that lately, as if to escape from reality, but she told herself it wasn't that... that instead she just needed to be prepared for tomorrow.
“My apologizes... I'm afraid I don't really have much of an appetite anymore.” this part wasn't a lie, but the next thing she would say had purpose behind it. “It's fine Rythe, go ahead. I don't really want to be dripping wet right now either. I already went ahead and did that after today's first “session” anyway... he didn't touch me in the one after class...
Just a towel I can wet for my face will be fine... and if the maids have anything we can borrow to sleep in. I'm sorry, but I didn't bring anything with me from the Academy.”
None of that was a lie either, but it served a purpose, whether Rythe went to eat more or to soak, it left Kurui alone if Jarelin or Lafton had anything to say to her or ask her without anyone else present. It was something she felt she owed them, but didn't have the heart ask Rythe to leave directly. Luckily even in this state it seemed she had enough of a lucky finesse stroke to orchestrate this... delicately.
If neither had any words for her, she would waste no time wiping her off face off (with the aid of a small water gate) as soon as the towel she requested arrived, changing into something to sleep in (if there was anything like that available), and collapsing into a bed; staying only barely awake until Rythe finished up.

 

[Takimaru]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

"Okay... well, I'm gonna go ahead then..." Rythe trailed off somewhat reluctantly, looking back at the other girl intermittently before finally willing herself to go on ahead just as Kurui suggested. Lafton couldn't help but grimace a little when the Water Major mentioned Black's 'sessions' with her so openly. While it wasn't something he looked to want to do intentionally, being more of a knee-jerk reaction, he did flatten his expression to one of muted concern afterwards. Of course he couldn't be happy about the thought of his own instructor taking advantage of someone he had admired for quite some time now. He actually had little idea of what to do, or what to say to her at a time like this, especially once Rythe had left the scene, leaving them alone together. It showed.

"Uhm... alright, I'll get it for you," said the Fire Major before running off. With Jarelin having headed upstairs without another word, Kurui was left alone for a few minutes, occasionally spotting the odd maid traveling back and forth while going about their tasks. A few muffled voices could be heard in the background, between those of her classmate and his servants. However, she wasn't kep waiting for too long. Lafton returned to her with a hand towel, as well as a larger one, presumably for drying. He offered them both to her with a polite, somewhat forced smile. "I told the maids, and they said that they have a spare gown you can sleep in. It'll be laying on the bed," said the brown-haired youth before going silent once again.

An awkward silence passed, maybe not a minute, though it felt like much more than that, mainly because there were several times that Lafton looked as if he wanted to say something, but couldn't arrange his words properly. Eventually, after mustering enough courage, he spoke, in a clear tone without eye contact--at least for the first few words spoken. "Kurui... you know... none of this was your fault. You're way stronger than just about anyone in our class could be about this. Yeah, I really hate that it had to be you, of all people. Of course I do. And you might think that I'm only doing all of this just because I like you. I won't lie... okay, I am. I mean, I do care about everyone else in class too, but even if their lives weren't on the line, if you came to me asking for help, I would've done the exact same thing. So I'm glad you did, 'cause a Fire Major never does anything halfway--I won't leave you alone."

Whether she chose to respond to it or give way to a second awkward silence was up to Kurui, but it was only another several minutes before Rythe finished her bath, returning to them with her clothes from before and a towel wrapped around her head. Lafton greeted her with a nod, figuring he could use the change of topic if things got too weird with the girl next to him.

"Whew, I needed that. You two are still here, huh? *yawn* As much as I'd like to have another snack, I think I'm ready for bed now... I'll save it for breakfast. Uff, might be a long day tomorrow."

"Yep..." said Lafton, scratching the back of his head and averting his gaze elsewhere. "Oh, I'll show you your rooms. Follow me," said the youth before making his way up the stairs, waiting for them to follow.

Taking a hallway to the right, he then motioned to two guest rooms located on the left side. "This one's for Rythe, and this is for you, Kurui. Think it's ready..." He took a peek inside the one meant for the Water Major, spying a blue gown laid out onto the bed. A white one was waiting for Rythe in the other room as well. "Yep. If you need anything, don't be afraid to ask the maids--they have rooms on the same wing at the end of the hall."

"Oh, this is awesome!" exclaimed Rythe, hurrying over to her own and checking out the amenities. Afterwards, she peeked her head out, unable to help but smile, more upbeat than she usually showed--as was the case when treated to expensive things. "Thanks for all of this, seriously. I'm gonna hit the sack then... see you two in the morning."

"Night then." Lafton responded with a short wave. He then offered a half-smile to the Water Major. "Goodnight," was all that he could bring himself to say before heading off to his own room, located further in the left wing of the manor's upper level. It seemed as if he had spent most of his strength on what he had told her earlier.

When Kurui entered her room, she would find that it was eerily quiet, but peaceful. A candle burned gently upon its stand on a finely crafted table, providing a soft light to her surroundings; a bed, nightstand, and closet, all of which looked old but exquisitely carved with fine accents. Even the sheets were remarkably soft, and physically if nothing else, she could get a good night's sleep as the down-filled mattress seemed to swallow her up halfway when she laid upon it. More things she wasn't quite used to that were luxurious and comfortable. The gown that was provided to Kurui, in contrast, was nothing quite as fabulous, made of simple blue cotton. It probably belonged to one of the maids, as it was slightly loose on her when she slipped it on, but was still clean nonetheless, having a 'freshly washed' scent. In comparison to her room at the Academy, things felt different here, but she was safe, away from where Black might find her.

 

[Kat]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

Kurui wanted to thank Lafton for everything he was doing for her... however before she could do so, he would say something that made a sharp but pained tone slip into her voice.
“Stop saying that!” While she wasn't yelling or anything, it was the most forceful her voice was in awhile. She seemed to catch it though and the harshness was gone a moment later. “I'm not “strong”, OK? Someone who was strong never would have let any of this happen in the first place. I've done nothing but mess this up at every turn and cry and be scared! Don't... don't admire me for something I'm not...”
Kurui's face was a pained mix of emotions. On one hand she meant what she had said, she didn't want to be put on a pedestal she had already fallen off of multiple times already. However she was also aware she had just “snapped” a little at someone who had just helped her an immeasurable amount... someone who's care for her was a comfort she greedily latched on to and didn't want to lose.
“Sorry.... I didn't mean to say that... If this is what being strong is, then I don't want to be this anymore... it's hurts so much, it's so hard to keep going.... but I'll see this through to the end. I have enough strength for that at least. Thanks for staying with me until the end, it means a lot, it really does.”
For a moment Kurui looked she was about to reach forward and hug the fire major, but was hesitating, perhaps because of her actually wanting to look strong despite what she just said or perhaps because she was afraid she had just offended him. After a few moments like this she finally opened her mouth to say something, but at that very moment she heard Rythe returning and allowed the lightning major's arrival to break the tension and let everything drop. As Lafton led her and Rythe to rooms for the night she hoped nothing she had said would make him think too poorly of her.

Kurui was impressed for her room, although not for the same reason as Rythe. Kurui did notice the expensive fine craftsmanship of the furniture, but more than that she noticed how much the room reminded her of her one back home. It was nice and cozy... quiet and isolated from the outside world. She could easily imagine herself sitting in here and reading books for hours like she used to do back in Veltria. However, there was no time for reading now, all she wanted to do was pass out. Though she did run over and give Lafton a quick hug before closing the door to get changed and sinking into the bed. The bed's extravagant softness, far greater than anything Kurui previously ever had the privilege of sleeping on, had her out in minutes.

~~~~~​

Kurui had fallen asleep quickly, but no more than an hour or two, her brain would start dragging her back to the surface with a barrage of thoughts...

“Hey! Kurui! What's goin' on? I saw you made it to the top 20--that's a pretty big deal! Congrats, lady!”
"Hah, you kiddin' me?! I did awesome! 99th place~! Not genius-level material like you, but at least I'm in the double digits club now, hehhe,”
“Right on time, huh Sienna?"
“Come'on Sienna, I've already had to spend the day dealing with Mr. Black, I'm not going the other way just because of a bunch idiot boys playing hall patrol.”
“H-Hey, I'm just saying, I don't wanna deal with these guys at all...”

Kurui was awake now... caught in the trappings of lingering drowsiness, but aware of what was happening. The thoughts wouldn't stop though...

"But thanks, Kurui, for getting me outta there... really. I dunno what I woulda done if they had me cornered, so... I owe you one."
“It's OK if you don't, but if it happens again don't be afraid of them, those guys are nobodies, and they're going to get away with doing anything to you, not here. If it gets really bad go ahead and blow them across the room next time.”
"B-But uh...uhm... a-after he was all finished... he brought a couple of his friends in the room and t-they..."
"Gawd, I can't believe how stupid I was!"
“Shhhh, It's OK, it's not you're fault... We'll find a way to take care of this...”

Kurui pulled the pillow around her face as if it could block out the voices replaying themselves in her head.... but it couldn't.
“This because something bad could be happening to Sienna RIGHT NOW. If Black knows what I've done... if he took her earlier... oh god it would be all my fault! She doesn't even know about any of this yet! I put her in all this danger and didn't even tell her about it!”

“I was just gonna look for you, actually, 'cos I just haven't really been in the mood to be all alone, y'know? At least not for too long at a time.”
“I made a mistake Sienna! Gods I made a mistake...”
“Please don't hate me... I'm so sorry... I..."
“T-There's no way I could hate you...”
“Thanks Sienna... thank you soooo much... I was so scared I was going to lose you over this!”

Kurui's bed was suffocating now, she felt herself sweating under the thick covers and threw herself out to open the nearby window and let the cold night air wash over her.

“If someone like Mr. Black saw what was on it, I think I'd literally just die or something. Not even kidding.”
“You're such a good friend to me. I need you, kay!”
“Whew! Nice one, Kurui! We did it! ...Right?”
“Hey, you were great back there Sienna! That was amazing, I didn't even know you could do that!”
“You kinda save me you know, I'd be in a tight spot if more of them had gotten the chance to grab me. You took more of them out than any of the rest of us anyway. I'm sure they wont try to mess with you after THAT.”
“I'm so glad you're my friend. I wish we had been born sisters.”

Kurui felt herself wanting to cry, on the verge of hysteria almost.
“I should go after her... right now. Make sure she's OK and bring her back. I could do it. I could sneak out right now, slip my way back into the academy and bring her here where she'd be safe. But then... how do I explain all of this...”

“Am... Am I a bad person Sienna? I... I left them... the others in my group.”
“No! Gods, you're not... Kurui, listen to me. There's no harm in just watching out for you, y'know? Anyone woulda done the same thing in your place!”
Kurui balled her hands up and walked over to the bed to punch her pillow.”You were wrong Sienna. I AM a bad person...” The cold night air was finally starting to cool her down and let her think a little clearer now though. “No... I'm doing the best thing I can possibly do right now. Black didn't get her earlier. If he did then it's already too late to do anything anyway. If he didn't, then me sneaking into the academy tonight just runs the risk of me getting caught and then he WILL know I'm up to something. I'm right, aren't I? I have to be...”

As Kurui tried to work herself into a new calm she found she was suddenly freezing. She closed the window and tried to lay back down again, but all she felt with her new calm was... cold and alone. She suddenly wished Lafton were there with more encouragement for her, even after it made her angry last time. She wasn't about to go cry in front of him again though, especially not in the middle of the night. Still, what she was feeling now was unbearable. She had to do something. Her other option wouldn't make her feel a whole deal less pathetic than crying to Lafton, but it was all she had right now. She wrapped the thick top blanket of the bed around herself, quietly slipped out of her room, and gave a few soft knocks on Rythe's door...

 

[Takimaru]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

Lafton's expression wilted somewhat as he found his attempt to reassure the girl backfire on him, thanks to his apparently poor selection of words. His mouth opened slightly as if to say something, only to freeze in that position when Kurui made her response. He wouldn't argue with her statement, though. She was right. He had put her up on a pedestal, one that he couldn't quite bring her down from so easily. After all, his attraction to her started out of sheer admiration, and nothing more. For a girl, one as fragile as her, it was fine to break down in situations like these, so he told himself--others such as Odetta, defined by dramatic meltdowns when things didn't go their way, simply paled in comparison. What Kurui had been through was truly something to despair over, and as a result, he simply couldn't blame her for all the 'weakness' she had exhibited as of late. Her following remarks visibly brought some degree of ease to the youth, however. "No, I should apologize for being the one to upset you..." uttered the Fire Major, shaking his head. "You don't have to shoulder this alone. I-I mean, you can put it on me, if you need to."

When she hugged him, Lafton froze for a moment in surprise, motioning to return the embrace but reacting far too late--by the time he did, he would find that she had already hurried back towards the guest room. "Ah... g-goodnight," was all that he managed to say, watching as she shut the door behind her. Sighing, he plodded back to his room to retire for the night.

~~~~~​

Despite there being at least a trio of maids working in the mansion, from what Kurui could remember, along with Jarelin lurking in the study, Lafton down the west hall, and Rythe settled in one room over, her room proved very quiet nonetheless. Unnervingly so, which didn't help given the numerous flashbacks haunting her mind and the lingering worry over her dear friend. It was enough to keep her from finding a proper stretch of sustained, peaceful sleep, as she soon found out.

The door to her room creaked open gently, but it woke no one. All of the lights had been blown out by that time, and from the looks of things, even Jarelin had gone to bed. As her eyes had adjusted to the darkness by this time, Kurui found that it wasn't terribly difficult to navigate the hall, especially considering that her destination was just one room over anyway. It took several knocks on the door of the other guest room to get any kind of reaction. However, Kurui eventually got one, hearing the covers being shuffled around a bit before the door cracked open for her, with the visage of a drowsy Rythe appearing from behind it. "Nnnph... Kurui?" She rubbed her eyes, forcing herself awake, or at the very least to a more alert state than before. "What's wrong? Are you okay?"

 

[Kat]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

After several light knocks with no answer, Kurui was just about ready to turn around and go back to her room.
“Stupid idea anyway... I'll manage someho-”
Before she left though, she caught some small sound just in time and a few moments later the door opened to a concerned Rythe.
“I'm fine.” Kurui answered quickly in response to the brunette's concerns. “Sorry to wake you up... I just can't sleep. Can I come in for a little bit, just to talk for awhile?”
Once invited into the room, Kurui would move over to a place besides the bed and sit down leaning back against the wall rather than sitting on the bed itself. In a way this position was more comfortable, almost like she was lying back a little... and the thick blanket she was wrapped in helped pad everything and make it soft enough to be comfortable. Despite all this though, Kurui would take a moment to settle in and start speaking, as if she had to work herself up to it or was afraid someone might hear. Although the latter was a remote possibility given how well “insulated” the rooms here seemed to be against sound.

“I was asleep for a little bit... but then I started having all these thoughts about Sienna... about what could be happening to her right now or how she doesn't even know about any of this yet. I didn't want to think about stuff like that but it happened anyway. I even started thinking I should go back right now, sneak into the Academy under a mist cloak or something and bring her back here where she's safe... stupid I know. I tried to tell myself her being gone earlier had nothing to do with any of this, that going back now and getting caught just puts her in risk where there was none to begin with, but it only halfway worked in easing my mind. I think I'm right... but doing nothing is hard, you know?”
Kurui paused for a moment as if working through her own thoughts.
“You haven't known me very long, so you might not know this, but she was one of my only friends. My standoff'ish personality always made it hard for people to get close to me... and I thought I preferred it that way. Gods, I was stupid! Now that she could be gone... it hurts so bad. I didn't even realize how lucky I was that she wasn't driven off by me... that she thought I was so cool and awesome and worth knowing when I had the fucking nerve to actually find her annoying at times.” This last bit she said with a self-critical bite before continuing.
“It was only recently that I realized how stupid I had been... it's only recently that something happened to to make me realize she was like a sister to me... I never had any siblings growing up, but I always wanted some... I finally realize I have someone just as good as a real sister and swear to never take her for granted again... then what do I do?! Only a few days later all this happens! And it's my fucking fault!”
Kurui paused again, catching herself before losing control and trying calm herself down.
“No... I just have to hope that everything is going to end alright. I still have no idea how I'm going to explain any of this to her, but I'm going to pray she forgives me. Tomorrow this is going to be over... we're both going to be alive in the end... maybe it's going to hurt for a long time.... but we'll get past it and everything will be OK.”

Kurui seemed to be done with her monologue now and gave Rythe a chance to reply. Encouragement wouldn't hurt, but even just having someone to listen would help the water major get out whatever pain she was feeling. Although Kurui would let Rythe say anything she to say about the issue, afterwards there would be nothing else to be gained by talking about it anymore. Having just gotten the most painful emotions out, Kurui had no desire to rekindle them again by going on too long. After Rythe had her say she would change tactics.

“I'm OK now, thanks for listening to me, it helped a lot... but... let's talk about something else now, OK? I know I'm probably being annoying... I don't normally talk this much and the whole “girl talk” thing is usually Sienna's thing... but it will give me something else to think about and help me fall back asleep easier. Anything you want, something about you, what you think of Lafton, anything really... It's not super late yet, we've got the time... please?”
Kurui felt bad being such an imposition on Rythe, but she didn't want to be herself right now. She wanted to feel normal... more positive and carefree, more like the kinds of things Sienna made her feel like when she was too stupid to realize it before. Perhaps trying to use Rythe that way was selfish of her, but anything friends did for eachother could be called that... and she did consider Rythe a friend now... a good one, as good as Sienna, despite the personality difference between the wind major and the lightning major. Kurui needed an escape from herself tonight, the part of her that bore all the weight and burden of this situation needed a break, because tomorrow it would have to once again be the part of her taking charge.

 

[Takimaru]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

"Mm? Sure, come on in," replied Rythe, opening the door for Kurui and allowing her to move inside before closing it behind them. She blinked a few times after seeing that the other girl moved to the wall rather than the obvious choice. Sitting up onto the bed, she stacked a pillow against the headboard for support and pulled the covers over her legs, then peered over at her classmate.

"Sure you don't want to be up here?" she asked, worry creasing her brow. After seeing the Water major's preference in that matter, she let it be, settling in and allowing the other girl to speak. Once Kurui got to talking, she would find that the brunette had little trouble listening, as some of the initial thoughts communicated to her were likely mutual, given her nods and sympathetic looks.

"I know how you feel, about Sienna. Even thinking about the possibility of her getting caught up in all this stressed me out, to the point where I couldn't do it anymore. It's probably what got me tired enough to sleep. Okay, the bed helped, but yeah. I have to at least try to hope that she was just out... somewhere, or something like that, because no matter how many times I trace things over in my mind, there's no way that Black would know. Or at least, that's what I keep telling myself," said the Lightning major in response to Kurui's first sentence.

Her concerned look grew when the thoughts of sneaking into the Academy were shared with her, but she shook it off quickly enough. "I'm glad you didn't try to sneak back into the Academy, but... I get it. About the doing nothing part. Everything in this house is just so... nice, from the rooms to the food, everything. It's really hard not to enjoy. But if I seriously knew that she was being kept somewhere while we enjoyed the meals, I'd probably have thrown it all back up in an instant. And that's just not something I do normally for any kind of food."

Kurui's confession earned her a sympathetic look from the normally composed girl. "Oh, Kurui..." She gripped the sheets in front of her and frowned. "It's not your fault! We've done just about all that we could do, I'm sure of it." Despite having said as much, her hands began to tremble--even she was in doubt of it. "To be honest, when we first met, I wasn't sure if I would get along with you either. No offense... I mean, it's kinda weird being compared to someone when you first meet them, but, that's Sienna for you I guess."

Tears began to well up in her eyes as she painfully forced a smile. "You know... she used to talk about you all the time, never without a nice thing to say about you. Some of us kinda rolled our eyes and joked that you were like, her secret crush or something, 'cause she just couldn't go a day without mentioning you. And I mean, of course, you weren't the most outgoing person in class, so we didn't know what to think of her little fixation."

Sniffling, she wiped the first tears that rolled down her cheeks. "But I get it now. You pretty much did all of this for her sake... which is probably more than can be said for anyone in our class. I can't even say that I would've done the same thing. Honestly Kurui, I don't think she could have asked for a better friend. Even to me, you ended up being easier to talk to than I thought you would. When this is all over... we should hang out more often."

She waved off Kurui's concern about being annoying. "It's fine! I should be sorry for interrupting you so much. Um... well, it's not usually my thing either, I mean, I'm definitely not like Sienna when it comes to that kind of thing, she's normally the conversation starter, more often than not. But...as for what I think of Lafton..." Rythe took a deep breath while drying her eyes, letting herself calm down and put on more of a thoughtful look instead.

"Hmm. Well... I think he's nice. Maybe a little too nice, if anything; probably the kinda guy who would have a hard time saying no to the person he likes. And I mean, I'm sure that feels nice and all. But for me, whenever Renn calls me out on something, as much as it pisses me off sometimes, I can at least tell when I'm being stupid about things in the end, if I try to look at it from his point of view. All of this about Lafton is just my guess though, based on what I've seen of him. On the other hand, he IS pretty diligent and the whole money thing doesn't hurt, in terms of being well taken care of--I mean, just look at this place!" Her eyes sparkled.

"Not to mention he's obviously got it real bad for you. Probably the kind of guy you could rely on in a pinch, I think. I mean... When I get home late sometimes, Renn's already asleep, so he probably doesn't even know I'm staying here for the night." She huffed. "Although I'd really like to think that he's just combing the city right about now looking all over for me. I bet he isn't. If was, though... it'd be nice." Rythe smiled to herself for a moment, gazing off into the distance ahead of her, before turning back to Kurui.

"Anyway, what do YOU think about him? Lafton, I mean. I can tell there's... kind of something going on, but I wasn't sure--obviously only you can say as much. Can't think much of a guy who leaves a note like that, but then again, he did react a lot better than I thought he would when you had to break the news. I'll give him credit for that much. Is he even the kinda guy you normally go for?"

 

[Kat]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

Rythe's emotional reactions to the first part of the conversation surprised Kurui a little. Somehow her first impressions of the lightning major earlier would have never included such an emotional side. While it was true Rythe had shown some strong reactions earlier upon overhearing what was really going on with Black, and again both times the water major had played back her recording of it, the situation this very moment was nowhere near as distressing as those had been. Kurui didn't mind though...
“We're not soldiers or storybook heroes or anything...none of this should have even happened to us... it's OK for us to get upset... to not be handle this perfectly. Besides, I should just be happy she's stuck by my through all of this and hasn't just decided to disappear and have no part of it... if it were me, the motivation to do that would be there for sure... I'm glad she didn't.”
...although she would also be glad when her friend was willing to change topics afterwards.

Kurui listened with something almost boardering on amusement while Rythe gave her impressions of Lafton. It was true, the fire major wasn't very hard to read, and most of Rythe's conclusions were the same ones Kurui had herself.... Although she felt her face flush warm at the lightning major's assertion that something was going on. It wasn't that she had been trying to deny anything, but hearing it said out loud still caught her off guard. Despite any weirdness though, none of it would be enough to kill Kurui's interest in answering the brunette's questions and keeping their talk going.
“Is he my type? If you asked me a few days ago I would have said no.” Kurui gave a small laugh at this before continuing. “You're completely right, normally I wouldn't even bother with someone who just left me a unsigned note like that, in fact I kinda yelled at him for it the day I met him. And you're also right that he probably can't say no... that normally I'd probably be like you and prefer someone who would be a bit more confrontational... “challenge” me a bit... and lose of course cause boys are idiots.” another small laugh “I never had any luck with those kinds of guys though... they always turned out to be losers or jerks in the long run. They never actually cared about me in any serious way...” Kurui's voice got a little more serious now, but still had a fond tone to it. “I don't feel that way with Lafton... I feel like like he really DOES care about me. I mean... he made that obvious when he didn't call me crazy and turn around running when I broke all this to him. If you were a guy and a girl came to you with a story like mine, what would you do?” Kurui paused for a moment but didn't actually expect an answer.
“He's a little awkward, and he probably won't ever tell me no for anything... but I can't really blame him. I don't know if you've noticed it too... but I haven't seen anything to indicate he's got a mother around... or any siblings. Nobody who would have taught him how to understand women... but he still tries and didn't become some standoff'ish self-pitying loner like so many other loser guys at the Academy.
You know what's sad? I probably wouldn't have given him a chance or seen any of that if none of this ever happened. He had a lot to prove... someone like him I'd have instantly grouped as just wanting to “try me out” and expecting me to be interested cause of his social status... but where fate was terrible for me, it did give him the chance to prove me wrong. After everything he's done for me there's no way I can't give him a chance."
Another short pause before she elaborated a bit more.
I wish he wouldn't put me on a pedestal the way he does, especially after I've spent the last few days falling off at every turn... but I like my dignity, I like holding myself to a high standard. It's also going to be awkward to think someone with his social status really does have an interest in me... but I don't think he's lying... and after everything that's happened, I think I really do like him back.”
Kurui's tone lightened even further, becoming almost like something typical of Sienna.
“He doesn't look too bad, does he? If I can teach him to be a little less awkward, I think I'd be happy with him for a long time. Maybe I'm just being silly right now and thinking about things I never do, but I think I might even be willing to spend my life with him. That would be amazing, wouldn't it? I don't think he'd ever let anything bad happen to me ever again... he would probably make me feel special every day...” Kurui gave a small happy sigh, an odd thing for her to do, as she had always considered herself too young to be thinking like this, despite being 19 and it not being all that odd among sizeable parts of the population to be married even before then. Part of her subconsciously racked all her thoughts up to being tired, but she didn't care.
“And you were right about all THIS, it doesn't hurt either.” Kurui said, referring to the room around her and all the nice stuff. “Oh gods, he's going to get all this one day and be a noble... and if I'm with him... I would be too... Me... thats freaky to think about. I could actually ask Lord Vernan for some of those books he has in library, like to keep for myself for real... and my parents would call me “Lady” Kurui the same way they taught me to do the same of any noblewoman... that would be... awesome!” Kurui's voice had a certain glee to it at this thought, but a moment later she had made herself more serious again.
"Heh, that makes me sound horrible, doesn't it? I swear thats not why I like him or anything... to be honest it would probably be awkward to me forever... and I still want to graduate from the RMA and everything. He would probably take care of me forever if we ever hit a serious point... but I still want to know I can stand on my own and everything... I don't want to be an ornament. I'd never get used to that... well, maybe I'd get used to the food part, the maids here ARE greak cooks. I wonder if they'd teach me how to cook like that if I asked... or if it's something I could even learn...”
Kurui let her thoughts wander randomly and continued responding to Rythe a bit more before drowsiness set back in and made her wind down.
“*sigh* I want this to happen to happen now... I'm not going to die tomorrow. I'm going to live and and give myself a real chance at this future...”

After the last bits of talk with Rythe, and some hasty apologies for talking so much about this if it made Rythe feel awkward at all, Kurui would head back to her own room... and this time sleep, real full sleep, would come easy.

 

[Takimaru]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

"Hmm. Yeah, I guess you have a point there," said Rythe. "Even though I normally prefer a guy who keeps me guessing, sometimes it IS just nice to know that you're being cared for--especially when things go bad. No matter how much I might like someone, if he seriously walks out on me KNOWING that I'm in trouble, I can't consider him to be someone I'd want to stay with, at least not for good anyway. I think that's just common sense, though, really. I am kinda jealous, though... I would like Renn to at least do as much, like I think he would, if it really came down to it. Not that I'd actually want anything bad to happen, of course. But I know if I had that much, I'd feel like I couldn't complain about anything ever again. A guy with looks, a body, confidence, maybe a bit of humor AND devotion... you would think out of the millions around, that wouldn't be too much to ask, but apparently it is. I'll settle for three of the five, though," she said proudly.

"Although, if I were a guy..." she pondered aloud, considering the Water Major's rhetorical question, though she eventually did give an answer of her own. "I probably couldn't tell you for sure, but it is hard for me to say I'd be willing to help that much if I were just looking for a cheap lay, or just to 'try' you, like you said. I swear that's what a lot of guys at the Academy are about, anyway. I remember Sienna used to be hung up over this guy named Teague, but I could tell he was a total douchebag. Normally, I try to not be so judgmental or whatever, but you know when you just KNOW something? It was kind of like that. I know some people think Renn is, but he's a good guy, I swear!" The brunette let out a nervous laugh, twiddling her thumbs. Despite how much Kurui went on about Lafton, Rythe didn't seem too bothered by it, and even if she had been, there were little signs given away by the Lightning Major. She gave Kurui a faint smile, listening carefully.

"Oh! And you know, about the mother thing... I did notice it too, but I didn't want to say anything in fear of offending him or his dad, especially when they were kind enough to let us stay here. I could tell a little, though, about him being an only child, not to mention inexperienced in terms of this relationship stuff. When it was just me and Lafton waiting outside for the, um... the recording... to finish, he looked really bothered by it all, and kept asking me what was going on. Despite that, he really wanted to go back inside to at least see how you were doing, even if he didn't really know what to say by the time he actually got there. It was... it was pretty cute, I'll admit," she recalled aloud.

"But wow... now that I think about it, he's actually surprisingly well-adjusted for someone who hasn't had a mother for that long, depending on how long she's... been gone. He actually does his work, too, which is better than can be said for so many losers in the RMA who just ride along on their fathers' wallets--but I guess that's to be expected from someone raised by an Academy professor. And no, I mean, while he's not the first guy in the Academy that would catch my eye in terms of looks, he's definitely not ugly, so that helps a bit. Although, I can't really say much as to how I think the two of you would go, since I haven't had a whole lot of experience with those kinds of guys myself. Okay, well, I knew -one-, but he was terrible, which is why I was worried about the whole letter thing at first. But, after seeing all of this, and knowing that we're in a safe place tonight. sure. I definitely won't blame you for thinking about giving him a chance," said Rythe quietly.

"Though, wow Kurui, I didn't know you liked him THAT much. Even if you do feel yourself falling for him, you should probably slow down a bit. Just to see how you two get along and all, when things... get back to normal, you know? But I will say this--even I'd envy you if you somehow ended up with all of this at your beck and call. Though if I ate like this every day, I probably wouldn't stay this small forever, ehehe... And no, you're not being horrible, since I know that's not the only reason. I'd say you're being uh, practical!" Perhaps it wasn't saying much, coming from someone who appeared to pinch pennies when possible, but Rythe at least returned Kurui's cheerful tone and enthusiasm about the topics at hand, particularly towards the end. If nothing else, it would help the Water Major feel like there was a chance of returning to a normal life again.

"Alright, sleep well. Hopefully by this time tomorrow night, everything will be back to normal..." said Rythe before slowly closing the door as Kurui left.

~~~~~​

While Kurui enjoyed a nice, deep sleep, she didn't have the luxury of indulging in a full one, despite the marvelous hospitality of the room she stayed in. Several light knocks on her door eventually woke her up, and a brief glance towards the window would show that the sun hadn't risen quite yet. Rythe's voice could be heard from behind the door. "Hey... Kurui? We should probably get up now, if we want to get to the Order and then the Academy on time without Black getting suspicious."

 

[Kat]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

“Hey! I totally never said I was FALLING for him!” Kurui felt a flush of blood warming her face.
"I was just... you know... fantasizing a little bit... or something. Come on, you've never done that? You've never looked at a guy and let your imagination just come up with the best things it possibly can? I mean... I don't do that very often cause it feels kinda silly and immature... but I don't care right now. And besides... so far some of my other expectations have been more than broken, so maybe this time I'm not being too “out there”.”
Kurui turned her face away for a moment, hiding her embarrassment at Rythe's insinuation like a child caught in a lie. She wasn't angry though, if anything it actually felt good to have reactions to such mundane things... it felt “normal”, and gave Kurui some hope of her life returning to as much eventually. It would be enough to help her sleep at the very least.
“Oh... don't worry about Sienna and Teague anymore. He's gone now, and I think she's grown up a bit more than either of us knows. She won't get herself in trouble anymore, and tomorrow I'm going to make sure I get her out of the mess of it I caused.”
On Teague, Kurui would elaborate no more, for obvious reasons. On the trouble she caused herself, she would elaborate on no more to avoid thinking about it and ruining her mood. Before Rythe would have a chance to respond, Kurui had already slipped out the door and started on her way back to her own bed.

~~~~~​

A number of hours later, Kurui would hear Rythe knock at her door. The sound woke her up from some pleasant dream she tried to recall, but already it was fading too quickly to remember. Usually Kurui wasn't a morning person, but today there would be no lingering whisps of drowsiness. Even given this early hour, and the fact that she hadn't slept as much as usual, it would prove to have been plenty enough to get her ready for today. A kind of tension she couldn't quite call “excitement” now kicked her brain and body into a state of alertness and focus. Within only a few seconds she was answering her door.
“Thanks. Do me a favor and go see if Lafton and Jarelin are up yet. I have a bit I need to do to get ready first. I'm going to go take a quick bath. Don't worry, I won't be long. Go ahead and get something to eat if you want, I'll be fine with a good chunk of bread or some fruit tarts. I don't really wana try putting any more than that in my stomach with my nerves right now anyway. Oh... and thanks for last night, it helped a lot.”

As soon as Rythe was on her way, Kurui made her own way down to the bath. She remembered the room it was in was in from Rythe having used it yesterday. Although Kurui herself hadn't been inside the room herself, she remembered it's location well enough to find it.
Rythe had woken her up earlier than necessary, even by cautious standards, but she still didn't waste any time trying to find one of the maids to set things up for her. Perhaps it was rude to use the room without telling anyone, but she knew she could flood the bath and heat faster with her magic than the maids could probably do manually... and she didn't think either Lafton or Jarelin would mind that she didn't waste time trying seeking them out out to tell them first, considering now wasn't exactly a time to be overly concerned about manners and etiquette. The bath itself probably seemed like a wasteful indulgence by that same train of thought... but after all of yesterday and last night, Kurui knew she probably needed it to make a good presentation of herself for Black.
“Anyone who even halfway knows me is aware of how much of a habit this is for me... that bastard probably watches me enough that he'd get suspicious if I walked with my bed-head hair. The way he notices details, a quick brushing probably wouldn't cut it. Besides, the more appealing I look, the easier he'll get fucking horny and let down some of his guard...”

 

[Takimaru]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

Upon opening the door, Kurui would find her classmate still in her sleepwear. It appeared that she at least had the mind to ensure that the Water Major woke up at around the same time she did. "Oh? Um, sure," said Rythe. "I know Lafton is up, though I'm not so sure about Jarelin just yet. I'll go ahead and make sure that there's at least a little bit of breakfast left for you then," she offered, idly running a hand over her hair to flatten a few unruly locks that were sticking up. "And don't sweat it! Besides, this is it. Everything ends today... I hope. We can't afford to break down now," added the brunette, taking a deep breath. "See you downstairs." Rythe slowly backed away with a faint smile, then returned to her room to get dressed, letting Kurui go about her morning activities.

Even this early in the day, she could hear the clinking of dishes downstairs. A glance towards the kitchen revealed that at least one of the maids was already awake, which wasn't a terrible surprise given the need for the lord of the manor to be up in time to deliver lectures and go about other scholarly business. Still, she was able to make it to the bathing room unimpeded, remembering it to be located near the west side of the first floor, just as Lafton had pointed out to Rythe when the Lightning Major sought to use it the night before. Red carpets lined the hallways, providing some protection to the girl's feet from what would otherwise be rather chilly flooring made from marble tile. But despite the numerous comforts of the old home, it was still quite large, in a somewhat unnerving way for those who might not be used to it, and the Water Major could have easily been turned around had her host not pointed out the location of the baths beforehand.

When she arrived, Kurui found the air in the bathing room to be somewhat cool; no one had used it just yet, or so it seemed. In most homes, such as her own in Veltria, these places were often cramped affairs, having just enough space for a wooden tub and a small area by which to dry off. The bathroom in the Jarelin home was hardly as conservative of an affair. It was perhaps half the size of the public baths in the Academy dorms, but for one large, square pool instead, located in the very center upon a depression in the floor. Every surface of the chamber was covered with a mosaic of tiles, mainly navy blue, beige and maroon in color, and numerous furnishings were located around the main bathing area itself. Two benches, a half-folded changing screen, and a closet in which towels were kept, all of them made from dark rosewood, stood off to the girl's right. Beyond those stood a bricked kiln of sorts with several iron kettles nearby, presumably to heat water for those unfamiliar with gate magic.

A glance to her left would show her a sink upon which to wash her face, backed with a mirror, and a few wooden pails sitting beside it. Next to the sink was a shelf that openly displayed various bottles and flasks of scented and herbal oils; jasmine, lavender, pernrose, thyme, snowberry and even several other herbs that even Kurui didn't recognize, as the labels on the last few were foreign, presumably Honrainese. On the lower shelves were a variety of solid bars of soap available for use, as well as other necessities for the bathroom that nobles normally used. The far wall directly across from Kurui had a mural of sorts, depicting various scenes from Cosmic scripture, and a look down into the pool itself showed the Jarelin family coat-of-arms in tile mosaic. The water was clear, although cold--nothing a Fire gate couldn't easily remedy, as the girl knew. From here, Kurui was free to soak and prepare however she pleased; the door behind her had a bolt lock on it, providing the privacy she might need.

 

[Kat]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

Kurui would be amazed when she first set foot in the bathing room. Even though everything in the manor was already amazing, this room still managed to surprise the young water major. The size, the detail that went into the tile and the art displayed on them, the rare woods used for the furnishings... everything. The whole chamber had the feeling of a sanctuary in some strange fascinating temple. The fact that anyone would have something like this in their own house, all to themselves, and not be royalty or province governor or anything like that was amazing to Kurui.
“Geeze... all this is amazing to me... I can't imagine what Rythe thought of it when she first saw it. I can't believe she didn't say anything.”
The wonderment over the room wouldn't ever quite wear off, but Kurui wouldn't let it preoccupy her for too long. There were other things she needed to attend to, and she wasted no time getting to it. She closed the door (although she didn't feel right bolting the door locked to her hosts in what wasn't even her house, especially after being treated to all this luxury and hospitality) and got to work heating the water.

The pool of water was larger than some of the smaller ones at the Academy and took Kurui a little more effort to heat than she thought it would. The fire gate she had to open to get it hot in a short amount of time ended up taking a sizeable chunk of her magical energy; but it was of no concern, she would have time to recover it back before she got back to the Academy. She made quick work of warming it up, got undressed, and slipped in.
The warm water and peaceful room was relaxing and pleasant and her body wanted to just soak it all in... but Kurui allowed herself only a minute or two of bliss before forcing herself to focus on her original purpose for doing any of this. She started smoothing out her hair in the water and looking over the selection of soaps and oils available.
“Amazing, there's so many! I'm surprised, I didn't expect two guys to have any that were quite this... girly. I wonder if they just keep all this for guests... or if maybe some of these belong to the maids or something. If it's the latter, I hope they don't mind me using a little...”
Many of the items available were more exotic or expensive than anything Kurui normally kept for herself or anything the Academy usually had, but she was able to find some with scents she liked and started treating her hair and the rest of her body. She was quite pleased with the shine the former had after only a few minutes and soft glow and feel of her skin the items did for the latter. While she needed to look good to keep Black's suspicions at bay, and maybe even get his guard down, there was another purpose to all of this too, one her her mind was driving her to do halfway subconsciously in it's awareness of what was to come...
Like a knight shining their armor before going to their last battle, part of this ritual for Kurui was about having a look of dignity. The awareness that she might not even be alive a few hours from now compelled her with a need to appear her best. If she was going to die, she would die looking respectable... elegant. She would not give Black the pleasure of seeing how much he had really hurt her... how much the last few days had worn on her physically and emotionally. Her mind was focused and determined on what was to come, there would be no more crying, no more pain, no more fear. Even if she was feeling these things on the inside, they would not be shown on the outside. She didn't expect Black to understand or even notice this side of it... Kurui wasn't even sure she fully understood it herself, but on some level it made her feel a little more dignified... a little braver. By the time Black noticed, if things went Kurui's way, it would be too late when he finally saw her efforts as the slap in his face she meant it to be... rather than efforts to look good purely for his twisted pleasure.

No more than 15 minutes later, she was finished preparing herself and getting dressed again as the pool of water was draining of the used water behind her (it would be no hard task to refill it with new water from a spell gate later). She hadn't brought a spare uniform with her, but careful use of a fire gate and some water allowed her to “iron” her old one smooth, and she hadn't exactly done anything too strenuous or messy to have gotten it dirty. For now, this was almost as good, not even a noticeable difference. Washed and dressed, she would exit the room to seek out Rythe and the others. There were papers to get from Jarelin, a visit to the Order of St Lisle to make, the last details of how to approach the encounter itself... then the moment of truth.
"One step at a time... that's how it's been working so far...”

 

[Takimaru]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

Kurui's 'ritual' that morning went off without a hitch, and though she chose to leave the door unlocked, no one came in to disturb her peace and quiet. From the time she stepped into the pool up until she got dressed, the Water Major was given the solitude she needed, and came out of the bathing room looking, as well as feeling, far better than she had been in the past several days. When she opened the door, however, she almost collided headfirst into Lafton, who seemed wide awake but was still in his own sleepwear, with a towel over one shoulder. His hair was still somewhat disheveled, but not terribly so given that it wasn't very long to begin with. "Oh! I was wondering who was in there for so long--uhh, I mean..." The youth stopped himself, though perhaps a bit too late, upon seeing who the person in question was.

"Good morning, Kurui..." he trailed off, somewhat dumbfounded by the sheer sight of her made up in such a way. "You look... you look nice," added the fire mage, with any previous mindfulness towards social finesse having been lost as his gaze traveled down, then back up her entire frame, though only briefly. He couldn't help but notice how 'crisp' her uniform looked in the process, even looking confused for just a moment. "Anyway, I'm just going to take a bath before we head off. I won't be long at all, and the maids have already prepared some breakfast for you. Rythe is in the dining room as well. We have less than an hour now to drop by the Order of Saint Lisle, then head to the Academy before he starts to suspect anything, so... I think we'll be alright. My father is awake as well, I think he should have everything ready for you soon. OK, well, see you in a few."

Graciously allowing her to pass and move on ahead to her destination, Lafton gave the girl a polite smile, then made his way into the bathroom, gently closing the door behind him. It didn't take long for Kurui to navigate her way back to the place where they ate, where a relatively modest breakfast was laid out for them--at least compared to the feast they had the night before. Hot oatbread baked with bits of nuts had cooled down by now, as had the fruit tarts. However, along with the porridge, boiled eggs, cheese, buttermilk biscuits and at least two selections of juice, it was still enough to sate the student's hunger if she was craving more than just a bite or two. Rythe was sitting at the table, and had just finished up from the looks of it. She wiped her mouth with a handkerchief provided to her before looking up at Kurui and waving her over.

"Hey! Well, they didn't take the food back yet, so feel free to have at it. I think they're even making a little more, if you're that hungry, because Jarelin hasn't come down yet." The brunette reclined in her seat, then covered her mouth as she yawned. She was already dressed in her own uniform. It didn't look as though she took the opportunity to shower, but her hair was done in a presentable way, if nothing else. Rythe hadn't gone through the same level of 'preparation' that Kurui bothered to make this morning, though like Lafton, she did notice the Water Major's fresh appearance. "No wonder you were in there for a little while," commented the other Academy student. "Good thing though. If it's something you do everyday, no reason to make him suspicious in those important first moments."

Her expression soon turned more businesslike as the day's events came to mind. "So... what's the plan? Are you really going in first? I'd say to let Raden handle most of the dirty work, because I don't think it's a good idea to be within 'hostage' range of Black if he makes his way into the classroom. But that's just me... obviously this is something we'd probably want to work out with him after we reach the Order. Did you have something specific in mind?"

She hadn't the opportunity to go on for long, however, as Jarelin came down the stairs and straight to where the girls were sitting with an envelope in hand. The professor, fully dressed, placed it on the table in front of Kurui.

"There's your clearance, which should allow the knight from the Order of Saint Lisle into the Academy with the lot of you. As well as my own statement with regards to the evidence presented. Essentially, any real member of the Order can make an official arrest, though Black can be proven innocent later on. My testimony, along with the proof you've already presented, will ensure that he does find a proper place in an Elynsorian prison." He paused, reaching into his coat, and produced a small, black disc-shaped stone, which Kurui would recognize to be enchanted.

"Black is a smart man, so I am fairly certain that he wouldn't cause too much of a disturbance and instead look to get out of this by the legal means at his disposal, which we are of course prepared for." Of course, the noble wasn't quite as familiar as Kurui was with Black's strange temper, explaining his assumption. Still, it didn't take away from Jarelin's own level of caution. "But, just in case..."

He set the rock down on top of the letter, motioning to it. "Provide this to the knight, or whoever is performing the arrest. I unfortunately didn't have enough time to prepare any other proper enchantments, but I did have it laying around. It should absorb the force of the first spell he attempts to cast, if he somehow proves foolish or desperate enough to resort to such methods."

 

[Kat]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

“Sorry, I wasn't aware anyone was waiting on me. I probably should have told you what I was doing, but I wasn't even sure if you were awake yet.”
Despite having practically crashed into Lafton, Kurui's voice was remarkably steady. No signs surprise showed in it now... nor did any signs of yesterdays pain and fatigue. Her voice was soft and proper, but edged with a kind of steely resolve, ready for what was going to happen today. This was not the same Kurui that the fire major was looking at yesterday... at least for the most part. Only when she felt him looking her over did her voice ever so slightly hint of any awareness or emotion like embarrassment.
“This wasn't for HIS satisfaction. I did this for MINE...”
She trailed off and said nothing more, unsure if he understood what she meant by that, but unwilling to spend the time to explain herself – she wasn't even sure if she could or understood it completely herself.
“Thank you, I'll go see what your father has prepared for us, I'll wait for you afterwards. If you have any second thoughts... now is the time to change your mind. But somehow I don't see you doing that”
Her last comment sitting somewhere between a serious warning and a compliment, she made her way past the fire major and headed to the dining room to find Rythe.

In the dining room, Kurui would be impressed with what was laid out for breakfast, even if it was comparatively humble compared to last night's dinner. Kurui took a seat at the table out of manner and habit. However, even with the new air of control and calm she had this morning, Kurui didn't touch any of the food except a few of the fruit tarts. Her sweet tooth, and her knowledge that she should eat SOMETHING at least, still had enough of a pull to draw her to this one item... although somewhere in the back of her mind she had to stifle a little voice that tried to remind her this might be her last meal. She tried to distract herself in conversation with Rythe as she nibbled away...
“If this were what I did every day, I'd have been in there for a lot longer enjoying it. This was purely for function... to keep Black from getting suspicious, and so I look too good for him when we bring him down.”
Kurui would pause for a bit after this to swallow down more fruit tart, again choosing not to spend time trying to explain herself in regards to what her bath had done for her mentally. Instead she would allow Rythe to move on to the next topic.
“Yes, I'm going in first.” Kurui's voice was suddenly very adamant “If we all just attacked him at once, what would happen? One good spell, if he had the chance to get one good spell in, he'd hit us all and we'd be finished. He's a better caster than me, a better caster than you, and lightning can do some scary things. We'd all be paralyzed or dead.” Kurui paused for a second to let what she was saying sink in before continuing.
“If I go in first, there's a good chance he won't attack me right away. I think he really does have himself convinced that I've decided to live with this arrangement he forced me into. That's good... it will give me a chance to hit him when he's not expecting it. The rest of you can come in with Raden when you hear him yell and know I was successful, that should give you a window to do something before he casts... if I do a good enough job I might be able to cripple him from casting all together.”
Another short pause.
“As far as me being in hostage range. Two things... First, you and none of the others are to give up the chance to take him down for my sake, no matter what. If you let him take me, I'm dead anyway. If you hit me a spell and hit him too then you bring us both down, but I can recover later if I'm still alive.
Second, I have my own plan for if I'm grabbed...”
Kurui quickly produced the charged trartz crystal she had and started repeating back something similar to thoughts she had back in the mine days before.
“Lightning conducts. If Black is touching me and I get shocked... he gets shocked too.”
With this she slipped the crystal in the boot of her academy uniform and worked it down until it rested against the side of her right foot.
“The crystal feels brittle. A hard kick should be enough to shatter it, I won't even have to focus magic or anything. If the crystal is broken, it shouldn't be stable enough to hold the energy inside itself anymore. The energy dissipates and I get shocked... but so does Black. Admittedly it's not the most graceful plan.... I'm left with a bloody foot, and given my size the shock will probably knock me out, but it will buy the rest of you time and break any stalemate that happens if he grabs me... and it's something I should be able to pull off before he can react.”
With that Kurui concluded her explanation. She would give Rythe a chance to reply, but otherwise seemed set on her plan even with all it's risks. Only an extremely good alternate idea would change her mind.
“I'm explaining the plan to Lafton and Raden too before we make our move... probably on our way over from the guild hall. Unless anyone has a better idea, this is the plan and we do it by a plan or not at all.”

For the moment, preparations seemed to be going well enough. Jarelin appeared soon after with the final bits of key aid to help things run smoothly. Kurui graciously accepted the envelope with a small bow of her head.
“Thank you... I apologize again for getting you and Lafton involved in all of this... I had nowhere else to turn. I'm not you blood or family and there's no other reasons I can claim as to why you should take the risk to help me... but I'm truly grateful you did. Black was wrong, not everyone with good fortune is content to sit back and leave everyone else stranded as the world around them to fall apart.”
Kurui carefully took the papers and separated out the testimony from the academy pass. The first would have to be dropped off at the Order, the second was something she would be sure not to keep close and not lose.
“We'll be leaving in just a bit. With this help you've given us, we shouldn't cause any stir, most of the students are probably still asleep this early. If this goes well there won't be any explaining to do until everything important is already over with.”
Kurui took notice of the enchanted stone Jarelin provided her too and stored it away in her satchel as well... however something about it tweaked her the wrong way.
“Why... I don't distrust Jarelin himself. If he wanted to hurt me he could have smothered me in my sleep or a million other things. So why does my gut not like this?”
No time to think about it now, maybe the answer would come to her on the way over to the Order. For now Kurui would focus on not letting the wait unnerve the resolve she had built up. Although part of her still wished Lafton would hurry up already...



INVENTORY

Spoiler

Aside from her uniform and the waist satchel...

-Falenium Crystal x1
-Trartz Crystal (Arc Lightning Charge x1) x1(hidden)
-Gold x40
-Jarelin's Testimony x1
-Academy Pass x1
-??? Enchanted Stone x1

 

[Takimaru]

Re: Elynsor's Royal Magic Academy (Kat) GMed by Takimaru

Lafton simply smiled nervously at Kurui's clarification on the topic of her carefully groomed appearance for the day, then nodded quickly a few times to communicate that he did understand; that there was no need to explain herself. He continued to look at her back even as she walked away from him. He opened his mouth as if to say something in response to her parting comment, but ended up hesitating, and could only manage a slightly awkward expression. "Pretty much my big chance to say something cool, and of course I blow it," he mumbled to himself under his breath, though not loudly enough for the girl to hear.

While Lafton seemed a bit gawky during his exchange with the Water Major, Rythe looked far more focused. She allowed Kurui's initial response about her appearance to pass without further fanfare on the matter, and moved right to the plan of attack. "Hmm, I do get what you're saying. Normally, for more than one target, even I need to focus for quite a while. But when the gate is open, the element hits almost instantly. I've never seen Black cast, but considering he's a lecturer, it couldn't be anything more than three seconds, at most. I'm a little afraid to see him get a spell off to begin with, to be honest. Even monitors are better than we are right now. I hope this guy from Saint Lisle knows what he's doing, too. But the reason I asked is because... if me and Lafton prepare spells before entering the room, and just come in at the same time as Raden on your signal, then maybe we can manage something big," she explained, before going quiet in order to let the other mage explain her backup plan.

"That's, uh... geez. Pretty extreme," replied the brunette at first, unable to help but grimace at what she would consider a most reckless option. "You're right though, about the crystal. I've seen some unstable gems blow up on people, and while it usually isn't that pretty, I don't remember anyone actually dying from it. Usually they just end up unconscious for a while. From what I read in class and such, controlled bursts of lightning magic are used on the battlefield to bypass metal armor and are pretty good for taking prisoners, next to the Earth element anyway." She took a deep breath, allowing herself to be lost in thought for a short while, only speaking after the spell of stressed silence. "If you can throw him off-guard, though... I definitely have to say it's a better plan than all of us rushing in at once. He probably expects as much. I'll have to get my spell prepared beforehand though, if Raden somehow doesn't cut it, because there's just no way I'm going to be able to outcast Mr. Black."

When Kurui spoke to him, Jarelin took the compliment fairly well, his facial expression lightening just slightly, for what could be shown given his usually stoic demeanor. "I'm not the gambling type, and I certainly wouldn't have taken it on you, had you come to me with just a claim. But you've presented us with some compelling evidence that is simply far too difficult to me to deny or for Black himself to discredit, making it much less of a gamble than it could be. It's unfortunate to find that someone like him, an accomplished scholar in his own right, would be a benefactor to an organization such as the Syndicate. To have him teaching students of the Academy would be far more of a risk in the long term. Though, if he is to be detained today, I will talk to the headmaster of this situation to find a replacement as soon as possible, else you miss class for the rest of today."

The professor briefly eyed the enchanted stone as she stashed it away. "Mm. Don't let the origin of that item bother you too much. I try to keep one on my person when I am out or teaching lectures at the Academy. After all, I happen to have an unfortunate tendency to get the most unruly of students in my classes, so it was a precaution I took with rebellious mages in mind," said the man in an attempt to ease any worries that the Water Major might have.

Lafton came to the table fully dressed in roughly ten minutes, looking as he normally did. While not one to spend much time on his appearance, he also didn't look unkempt or sloppy. "Alright, I'm ready," he said firmly.

"I take it you're going with her, then," came the expected response from the youth's father.

"O-Of course! And I... I won't let you keep me from going either," asserted Lafton, though his words weren't spoken as solidly as he would have liked, his voice slightly wavering.

Jarelin merely shrugged. "Hmph... I wasn't going to. Though you shouldn't keep everyone else waiting. After all, if you aren't at least several minutes early, then you're late."

"Yes, Father," said Lafton with slightly less enthusiasm than one would expect of such a respectful reply, bowing his head as was customary. He then followed after Kurui and Rythe when they went to leave.

With her preparations for the day having been made, and Lord Jarelin's approval given in his own way, Kurui walked alongside Rythe and Lafton to the Order of Saint Lisle. It was cold outside that morning, like many before it, but much more bearable than the night before, as the Water Major had properly dressed for the occasion this time around. The walk was spent in focused silence as the other two mages prepared to steel their nerves for what was to come. Of course, they still had one more stop to worry about, but that was just a mere formality. It didn't keep them from thinking about what might happen upon reaching the classroom in which Black likely waited. Then, they reached their first stop on the way to the Royal Magic Academy.

While no lanterns appeared to be lit within the Order of Saint Lisle's guildhouse, a few knocks on the door still caused it to swing open. Instead of the old veteran they were used to seeing, Raden answered the door, wearing a slight scowl upon his face--a usual thing for him, so the three had learned. He gave them a nod and stepped outside immediately, shutting the door behind him.

"Let's go, then," said the tan-skinned warrior before taking a spot near the rear of the group and allowing Kurui to lead.

Their walk to the Academy would be several more minutes, which for the most part, gave the Water Major enough time to explain details of her plan to the swordsman. Raden himself, despite his grumpy look, would ask the question before she even started to explain. "So what would you have me do?"