Izeurik and Ciela woke up a little earlier than normal, the sky was still dark. Ciela hopped on his head nestling into his hair as he slowly got out of bed. Sliding off the side where the safety bars used to be. Izeurik's mind was racing. The day he was waiting for was now here, leaving him full of dread. Today will be his first day of school.
Sister Mary was up early as well, already fixing breakfast. Once the food was done they ate at the dining table. Sister Mary's soft humming and singing did well to help relax him. Knowing how the day would go after they finished their meal Sister Mary took a shower and freshened up while Izeurik cleaned the dishes, taking a shower once she was done. While getting dressed he stops for a moment to look at himself in the mirror. Steeling his nerves and taking a deep breath in before letting it out slowly.
[ Izeurik & Celia
5'1 & 1'3
Age: 10 & 8 ]
After Izeurik got dressed he grabbed the beaded necklace around his neck. Glancing down at it with a warm smile as he thought about his parents. Ciela resting inside of his hair, blending in like perfect camouflage. Even her eyes looked like Izeurik's green hair strands inside matted black hair. Her head randomly peeked out to get a better look around. Making his way to the front door where he sees Sister Mary putting the last of his stuff onto the porch where a man dressed as a chauffeur was grabbing his belongings and bringing them the rest of the way to the vehicle, a large armored black Hummer.
As they met there was a silence neither of them wanted to break as if prolonging the departure before Sister Mary finally spoke after clearing her throat. With headphones hanging from her neck, she reached into her pocket to take out a phone and credit card. Starting by turning on the phone and unlocking it.
"I will explain it all once more. School works like this. Those who can't afford private tutors or the fancy schools have to go to the public school. Although there will be trouble no matter where you go, you should always try your best to remain on school grounds and focus on your studies.
Typically you would have gone to school many years ago but I didn't want that to happen. Wanted to keep my baby boy around as long as possible. Typically the moment you go to school you only return for holidays, brakes or special events. This won't be the case for us. Once you leave, I have my own mission and purpose that I must fulfill for my god and myself."
As Sister Mary spoke it was impossible to tell who started it but both their eyes grew more watery by the second. Doing their best to maintain composure as she continued to speak.
"We will see each other again, it just won't be as often as it normally would. The farm will be given away to others who follow the same God. It will no longer serve as our primary home, although it will ALWAYS be Our Home. You and I can always return even if the other is not there and be welcomed.
This credit card if used responsibly should easily let you live in comfort with some lavish things until you graduate. It holds a great deal of money I saved up, and will continue to add to it. Food, clothing, entertainment, weapons, etc, No problems if used RESPONSIBLY. You can put it inside the thin slot in the back of your phone to connect them together..
Speaking of which, the phone. Pour some of your mana into it to claim it. You will probably need to upgrade the sturdiness by the time you graduate, unless it takes some crazy damage It shouldn't break. My number is already saved under Mother Mary. I have the settings where you can always see when I'm available to talk, FaceTime and such and such. If I'm not available I'll get back to you as soon as I can. Just like the credit card, the phone has a security function. If anything happens to the credit card it will let you know. If anything happens to me and vice versa to you. It will let the other know. And next- "
Sister Mary handed over the phone and put the headphones on Izeurik with one of his ears exposed while he put the credit card into the back of the phone slot. Sister Mary then clicked a few times onto the phone to get to the app she was looking for while Izeurik poured his mana into the phone for a few seconds until it stopped, he could feel a connection to the phone while Sister Mary continued speaking.
"Since I know how you get, I recorded a lot of my humming and singing with noise canceling headphones, to sugar it up. Anytime you get nervous, anxious, scared, anytime the moon is not out and you can't clear your mind from all your thoughts, Or if you just miss me. Now you could always hear me anytime you want"
She hits play on the first song. The sweet melody of her humming brings Izeurik over the breaking point as his tears begin falling down. This was instantly followed by Sister Mary's own. Cupping his cheek while wiping his tears away tenderly. Ciela softly coo and nuzzles the top of his head to help give comfort.
"Remember, and this goes for you too, Ciela. Don't openly use your illusion ability in public until you're in high school. Focus on learning about your body to master your father's ability now, as well as the other things you will learn in school. You have plenty of time since you already have a mana heart and training..
Lastly and most importantly, remember you will always be my son, Ize. I will always be your Mother Mary, something only you can call me. Your parents would be so proud of you just as I am. Carry them with you always, through your necklace and in your heart. I love you, And I can't wait to see you again"
Their tears were pouring out of their eyes to the point where it blurred their vision. Izeurik wrapped his arms around her neck to pull her in tight as if trying to suffocate her.
"I love you too, Mary- Sweet mother of mine"
And like that Sister Mary tears stopped as she giggled into a laugh at his words. Pulling away from the embrace as she dried her eyes..
"You've been watching too many old shows."
Izeurik laughed and finished wiping away the rest of his tears. Putting the phone in his pocket while still listening to his music. Smiling with renewed confidence. Heading to the stairs of the porch and hopping down to the ground while making his declaration.
"The old shows will always be the best... Now I must make haste before thy tears drown these roads, crops, pulling me down and swallowing me whole!"
Waving as he walked backwards to the vehicle where the chauffeur was patiently waiting, standing next to the backseat door. Sister Mary waved back cheerfully. All her sorrows vanished.
"Ha! As if I would ever let you drown! Keep my little boy safe, Ciela."
Sister Mary retorted, ending her words more softly when speaking to Ciela. The crow caw and cooed happily in response. Izeurik chuckled at her words. The chauffeur opened the backseat door for him as he got in. Sharing glances through the dark tinted glass. Sister Mary stood on the porch until they disappeared over the horizon and away from the farm life.
Izeurik's smile faded once she was out of sight. He turned up the music in his headphones. Taking Ciela out from his hair to tenderly hug her while stroking her head. Glancing out the window seeing the sun just peeking over the horizon. Despite being close to the wall it still took some time to drive to the entrance.
After arriving at the enormous wall, slowly all of nature faded away. Drowned out by the loudness of the city life. After stopping at the checkpoint several droids patrolled around the vehicle scanning and searching. A man standing by the gate looking at his tablet before giving the all clear and signaling for the chauffeur to proceed.
[ Military perimeter droid ]
While driving through, the chauffeur showed his ID and stated his reason for entering. After the guard checked his tablet once more he gave another all clear. Proceeding through, more time passed as Izeurik watched out the window at his new surroundings. Tall buildings, neon lights, several hovering cars and bikes beside them. A few vehicles were flying through the air all with practically no traffic around him. Most people seem to be walking, some riding small personal gadgets to get around like hoverboards.
From magic and technology he had never seen before, there is another thing that stood out to Izeurik. Countless droids and several androids following people. He rarely saw any animals with anyone. The few he did see, most of which seemed more like slaves than pets. Ciela pushed deeper in his hair as if to further hide herself at the sight. Izeurik turned off his music and rested the headphones around his neck. Reaching in his hair to gently comfort her while focusing more on the people he noticed as they passed alleyways and looking down streets where there was violence. Violence that many others ignored or cheered on. Droids guarding and protecting places. For a moment he forgot about school and was just wondering where the hell he was.
As the long drive continued all of the chaos and noise slowly faded. Less people were around, and those who were seemed a bit more friendly, or at the very least not confrontational to Izeurik. Eventually arriving at a large gate with several guards and droids standing by. A long line of similar vehicles one by one entered the gate. Passing through Izeurik looked out of the front window to get a better look At what he could only describe as luxury based on what he saw on TV. A mansion to the far left, another one to the right, and at the distant middle was a mansion on top of a mansion.
[ Mer'gerak: campus ]
".... Whaaaat?...."
Is all Izeurik could say after failing to find the words he wanted. The chauffeur chuckled as he finally spoke.
"Welcome to Mer'gerak, where the next generation learn, housed and trained to fight for humanity if willing."
The chauffeur continued down the road before driving into his reserved parking spot. Several droids were standing on reserved platforms and the drones shelved. The chauffeur gets out of the car and opens up the door for Izeurik to step out.
"I was already told where you will be residing. Me and my droids will deliver everything to your room. Make your way to the main building in the center to properly get your ID and further information."
Izeurik listens to his words carefully. As he stepped out of the car Ciela snuggled herself deeper into his hair to hide herself. After nodding and thanking the chauffeur, Izeurik started heading towards the main building along with many other students who were dropped off. He couldn't help but to notice only a few of them looked nervous. He could only assume they're all used to the public school environment from joining earlier. A part of him was jealous of how Ciela could hide.
His jealousy was felt through their connection. He could hear and feel her comforting yet mocking coo coming from her as she nuzzled. As the waves of kids made their way inside of the enormous building, several lines formed each leading to someone working at the desk. Watching some students pulling out their IDs, being handed a simple watch, and paper before proceeding on while others go through a process of creating an ID. When it was finally Izeurik turn he stepped forward. After overhearing and seeing the process of many other students he didn't wait to have it explained. Placing his hand on a small crystal ball that sucked some of his mana into it.
"Hello there, my name is just Izeurik, an orphan."
The man behind the desk put down the black card he had in his hand and grabbed a white one along with a simple watch. The ID size reminded Izeurik of his credit card and the 2nd slot on the phone. The man behind the desk put the card and watch into the back of the crystal. Transferring the mana from the crystal to them.
[ Basic magic smartwatch ]
"Hello Izeurik, I'm Gray. So, What you're in the process of doing is infusing your unique mana signature into this card. This will serve as your ID and access card throughout life. The watch has useful features. It also can show a hologram of your face among other things. If you have a phone the ID and watch will connect to it"
Izeurik nodded as it's all explained. Transferring the ID into the other slot in the back of his phone and putting the watch on his left wrist.
"Question, why are orphan IDs different?"
The man behind the desk nodded his head as if expecting the question.
"Through the years we found it easier for orphans to identify other orphans. We also make sure that no orphans are ever alone in a classroom or project and such. We can't guarantee absolute peace but we can minimize the negativity. So we do promote everybody displaying their ID on school grounds when possible, anyway that's comfortable. You can get the color and design changed once you graduate to anything you wish."
After the explanation Gray gave Izeurik a piece of paper displaying his room number, teacher name, and a map of his side of the campus. With it still being early there would be downtime to get comfortable before the first class. He made his way to his room. By the look of his surroundings and the type of people going where, he was beginning to realize the buildings on opposite sides of each other separated by middle school and high school.
After reaching his room he assumed the chauffeur put everything inside since nothing was outside the door. When entering the sliding door his assumptions were proven correct. Everything was neatly stacked by one of the room's doors to the right. He also noticed just how large the room was. Shaped like an octagon, a big spacious living room in the middle. Clockwise from where he was standing there were two bathroom doors labeled boy and girl, the next side was a balcony, followed by the kitchen, dining room, then three rooms leading back to the main entrance. All seemingly have sliding doors except for the kitchen and dining area fully open.
Noticing two more piles of items by the doors, and as if his notice was the trigger. A boy leaned up from the couch to meet Izeurik gaze before rising to his feet. With a golden blonde hair hung down to his eyes that was soft blue like a beach shore, warm beige skin, and a sense of calming came from his demeanor to Izeurik. With a simple bow of the head from the boy, a smaller gesture to himself, and a voice calm yet quick with confidence.
[ Character card:
Zachariah Zero Zahn.
Appearance: Midwest American.
Age: 10.
Height: 4'7. ]
"Zachariah Zero Zahn, since we're going to be friends feel free to call me Zee or Zero"
Zechariah lifts up his forearm out in front of him at an diagonal angle across his chest. With the unfamiliar gesture Izeurik just copied while curiosity filled him.
"Izeurik... Just Izeurik... Why so certain we will be friends if we just met?"
Before replying to him, Zachariah bumped his forearm against Izeurik's, which made him come to the realization of the greeting gesture.
"Oh it's the deluxe package after all, also keep your stuff there. Let's wait until everybody else gets here before properly introducing and picking rooms. Also my sister is in one of those rooms napping while waiting"
Even while speaking and gesturing to the general direction of the rooms while already returning to the couch followed by Izeurik.
"Deluxe package? These aren't normal arrangements?"
Spoken with confusion as he sat down on a chair facing towards the balcony while Zachariah laid back on the couch in the same direction.
"Ah, well no, the standard Is quite a bit different. Instead of each room holding two people, it's four. A lot more rooms lined up in a row. Deluxe is smaller and more prioritized. Six people resembling the squads that are up to six people. Our parents had a description of our behaviors sent in to find possible compatible matches. Although we can request a change, it's a good chance this will be our group until we graduate, and maybe after. At least that's what my father taught me."
Izeurik took a moment to process what he said before giving a conformational grunt and head nod.
"Huhm, I didn't know that. Thanks"
Zachariah gave the same conformational grunt before closing his eyes with his hands behind his head and his feet on the armrest. Izeurik glanced around the chair before finding a kickstand to prop up his feet. Leaning back in the chair then proceeded to fiddle with his watch and phone while waiting. Putting on his headphones just to cancel out the noise. Sending a message to Mother Mary about how everything is going so far. Messing around with the settings on his devices to get it the way he wants. Afterwards, he began to look through the apps. Finding an app for the campus. After clicking on it Izeurik immediately was granted access.
Before he could do anything else he felt Ciela warning him of another roommate arriving. When glancing over at the door Izeurik realized from the corner of his eye that all the other belongings were already there. After the initial surprise quickly vanished he couldn't help but to praise the effectiveness of the headphones. Taking a closer look, one of the piles had a lot of barrels from small to large.
Removing his headphones when he sees Zachariah and a girl approaching. Zachariah only made it halfway before the door opened up again with another roommate he went to greet. Izeurik gave a short waved at the girl with a slight prolonged headbow. With long poofy curly dark brown hair, with eyes to match. Her face had a slight round complimenting feature under warm golden honey skin.
[ Character card:
Galena Anderson
Appearance: Russian American
Age: 10
Height: 4'5 ]
"Hello there, my name is Galena, Nice to meet you"
Spoken with a soft sweet voice and a kind smile towards him before her focus shift when seeing the remote and the TV off. After grabbing it she took her spot in the semicircle that faced the balcony.
"I'm Izeurik... That's all, it's nice to meet you as well Galena"
After replying warmly, both of their gazes shifted towards Zachariah and the newcomer who's strides were as carefree as the look on his face. natural warm skin and short straight black hair that nearly covered his distant deep brown eyes
[ Character card:
Dexter Michaels.
Appearance: Midwest American.
Age: 10.
Height: 4'7 ]
"Good afternoon, I'm Dexter Michaels, and I heard you're Izeurik and Galena. A pleasure."
Spoken with a slight smile that showed his kindness, Izeurik felt Dexter's tone carried more of the sincerity he meant. After returning the greeting they both joined the semicircle sitting down on the furniture. Galena turns on the TV, settling on a random game show. After an hour past the front door flung to the side and the sound of a barrel being dragged filled the room along with clackings of cups that was quickly drowned out with a loud declaration.
"Cheers!-Cheers! Rudy is here!... Now let's drink."
[ Character card:
Rudy Taaffe.
Appearance: Irish Canadian.
Age: 10.
Height: 4'8. ]
With eyes as blue ice that pierce through his golden lock that fought to conceal them, along with ears long and pointy. Has flushed was center stage across his face on his beige skin. Approaching the center of the living room Rudy immediately began pulling the hanging mugs from the barrel and handing them out.
"Don't worry it's none alcoholic but it still makes you feel gooood...wait, I miscounted... We're missing one"
With a bit of a confused look Rudy glanced around back towards the room's doors to recount everybody. Zachariah spoke up with a commanding tone while looking at the second room door.
"Everybody's here, stop napping"
After pausing for a moment, opening his mouth to speak again before the door opened up as a girl rubbing her eyes stepped forward wrapped in a blanket that covered everything below the neck. With similar features to her brother just with longer hair that fell just below her shoulders. The girl yawned as she approached the back of the couch. Leaning over it to do a front flip and clumsily land on cushions. After squirming to get comfortable she took a more proper posture and cleared her throat. Pause for a moment as Rudy gave her an empty cup before she resumed.
[Character card:
Zaria Zue Zahn.
Appearance: Midwest American
Age: 7.
Height: 4'1. ]
"Hello hello, My name is Zaria Zue Zahn, If I like you I'll let you call me Zee-Zee or Zue. I look forward to working with you and I WON'T hold you back."
Her look was enough certain to overshadow the slightly higher tone and younger age brought forth. Before anyone else could greet her Zechariah spoke up once again, Putting his hand on Zaria cup as if prepared to take it away. With a slight concerning look towards Rudy.
"You have non-alcoholic ale?"
Ziara looked a bit grumpy at her brother's action. Meanwhile Rudy was unfazed. Already continuing around to the others. Dexter happily accepts the pour. Galena hesitated at first so Rudy Didn't press and passed. Going to Izeurik who shrugged and accepted it all the while Rudy was replying.
"It's a part of my ability. No alcohol so it tastes better but the effects are not as long. I made a promise not to do real alcohol until graduation and only serve the non-alcoholic version on the first day, weekends and special moments."
While explaining he already returned to Zachariah offering to the poor. After a moment he accepted it and allowed his sister to partake. Dexter had drunk a third of his and held his cup open for more when Rudy returned.
"Not bad, Rudy. It's very fruity."
After getting his cup filled once again this time Dexter took slower sips to savor the taste as Rudy made his way back towards Galena who this time happily accepted and began to sip away slowly. Once he returned to Izeurik who had already finished his cup Rudy couldn't help but to laugh when filling it up again while speaking.
"Haa ha ha. Oh looks like me and you going to be drinking a lot together"
Izeurik chuckled and started sipping his drink like the others while replying.
"Ha, perhaps we will... It's very relaxing"
Rudy poured himself a cup when noticing the brother and sister caught still mostly full. Rudy sat down to complete the semicircle. Then Zachariah spoke up once again, taking a few sips while speaking. Glancing around at everyone.
"Alright since we're all here we can do a bit more proper greeting in full to get it over with... I'll go first... Once again my name is Zachariah Zero Zahn. My sister is Zaria Zue Zahn... Given the situation I thought it's only proper to say the full name even though it's not to my liking to say it... Feel free to call me Zee or Zero... If given permission call her Zee-Zee or Zue... It's just me and my sister and we're recent orphans. Was homeschooled. We lived in town. Lost our parents a year ago inside a dungeon... Because of their preparations we managed to survive for the year until the school year started. Because of their contributions and connections we're likely enough to stay together. She's also a bit of a prodigy which also helped in the decision. So don't worry about her holding us back... Oh and I like working out, if not sleeping or eating."
His voice held exhaustion as if tired of speaking. Embracing the comfort of the couch as he leans back into it to sip more. Enjoying the immediate effects that soothes him.
"... I like TV..."
Zaria quietly added on with her feet up on the couch. Cozying up on the other side while enjoying her drink. After her word Zachariah glanced over to his left towards Dexter tho sat in one of the two chairs to the left of the couch.
"Okay, my turn... Dexter, Only child. Not an orphan. Father died when I was young fighting the horde. Mother is sick. Learn to cook to help out. I enjoy it. Uh the Cooking and helping out, and I lived out in the village..."
Taking another larger gulp down. He couldn't hide the look of worry on his face when speaking of his mother. He glanced over to his left at Rudy.
"Another short story, I'm Rudy. Mother died shortly after birth, I have an older sister. Father is a barkeeper in the city. He has the ability called drunkard and that was passed down to me. He taught me enough to control the alcohol limit for safety... I like drinking, making friends, Doing anything fun and drinking more... That's it really"
Taking a few large gulps down happily. Glancing across the room to the other side of the semicircle. Holding up his glass, gesturing for Galena's turn. Before she spoke she took a long sip.
"Mother is a mechanic. Works on cars and junk in the city. Her ability was passed down to me. Good for building and fixing stuff and it's also what I like to do. My father works as a guard for a mafia, or a gang depending on who you ask. I got a few siblings doing whatever in the city. I'm the youngest. Mother says I'm a prodigy, oh and I like music and dancing as well..."
Rubbing her lips with her sleeves to wipe away the extra ale that was drooling down the corners before she glanced over towards Izeurik. By this time he had already finished his second cup and was just holding it. Izeurik felt the effects clearly. Although it didn't fully empty his mind, everything felt more relaxed and lessened how much he thinks. Tapping his empty cup, taking a moment before out until feeling Celia comforting nuzzles against his head.
"Ah yes... Sorry... So I'm an orphan. I never knew my parents, I was just a newborn. From what I'm told my mother and father were deathly sick and knew their time was coming-"
Izeurik lied, he knew his parents died saving him but since he was told to keep his own name hidden, he didn't feel like he should tell the full truth just yet. Although when it came to his parent's death, he knew very little. According to Sister Mary it was an attack and not sickness. She didn't tell him much more than that.
"-It was on their dying breath they handed me over to a religious village woman thinking it would be the best option. I grew up on a farm. We didn't use much technology. Hmm, I enjoy the moon, TV, gardening, music, sleeping, meditating, and lastly, but mostly, playing with Ciela-"
Before he could say more Ciela let out a few soft caws after hearing our name. Izeurik held his hand near the level of his head for Ciela to slowly make her way out from his hair to plop down on his hand. Spreading her wings as if to showcase herself. Little bouncing around in a circle before facing towards his hair once more and hopping back inside.
"She's really shy but wanted to join in. She is also really smart. She can understand you perfectly fine. I've had her since I was four."
Everyone was quite surprised at the sight of the crow. Zaria stared at the retreating bird with intense focus. Pure excitement gleaming in her eyes. Sitting up taller and her seat with a serious face speaking with urgency.
"I'm rooming with Izeurik!"
She declared which brought up the conversation of rooms. Zechariah immediately protested. Thinking the two girls should share a room. Zaria immediately disagreed. Dexter didn't really care, from sharing a room with his mother several times, he didn't see any problem. Galena understood Dexter's point from sharing rooms with her siblings but also agreed with Zachariah. Rudy chimed in, suggesting joining with Izeurik for drinking buddies and gardening. Although he agreed, Izeurik brought to Rudy's attention how their personalities may clash since he enjoys a more quiet setting. Offering another suggestion that Galena likes music and dancing with possible similar energies. As the conversation continued Zachariah was slowly more defeated, knowing how her sister gets when really focused on things for wants. Izeurik turns his attention to Zaria.
"Is it mainly because you want to play with Celia?"
This led to an immediate multiple head nod from Zaria.
"Celia doesn't want to be separated from me. Hmm... I say we just take it to a vote. Me, Celia and Dexter don't care. Galena is on all sides so that doesn't count too. It's up to Rudy, Zaria, and Zachariah... Which means Rudy got the real last vote"
While spoken everyone nodded their head in agreement, with Zachariah being a more reluctant one. Finishing his long sip Rudy cheerful personality turned slightly more serious for a moment as he wiped away the drool of ale. Thinking as he one by one looks at everybody before coming into a decision.
"All are good points but like Zachariah said, it's a good chance we're stuck with each other until graduation. So it's probably better to match up personalities and not just gender. Let's try not to take everything so serious "
Rudy shrugged while Zacharias's resolve crumbled. Letting out a defeated sigh and rubbing his face. Finishing his cup before setting it down on the armrest. Well speaking.
"Yeah... I suppose that's right. It was fair and reasonable... Now just for the rooms"
Dexter raised his hand slightly to bring attention to himself. Spoken softly yet clearly.
"I'll take the first room next to the kitchen since I like cooking. Which means you will be with me."
Zachariah nodded with confirmation, Putting his cup on the coffee table before heading over to his pile of stuff. Dexter soon followed after finishing his cup and also placing it on the coffee table. Galena stood up next. Finishing hers and placing it right next to his.
"I will take the third room. It will be nice being close to the bathroom. Which means Rudy will be with me"
Rudy finishes his drink and adds it to the growing pile, joining Galena and starting unpacking. Izeurik got up next. Before adding his cup to the pile, he takes a bit more ale. Holding it up to its head and letting Celia take her fill before he finishes, then Glancing over at Zaria.
"I guess we're number 2"
Spoken cheerfully while making his way over to his things leaving Zaria the last to join. It took quite a bit of time but eventually everybody got settled in. One by one making their way back out to the living room to sit in their previous spots. Then there was a sound of a doorbell that left all of them confused and looking at the front door.
Being the closest to the door, Dexter got up and answered it. Meanwhile, Izeurik's phone notification went off after receiving a message from Sister Mary. Opening the door, Dexter was warmly greeted by an older man who partially introduced himself. Wearing ripped and poorly stitched clothes covered in many stains. Short graying hair with a contrast of chocolate skin.
[ Character card:
Mr.White
Appearance: Eastern American
Age: 71
Height: 5'6]
"Hello there, I'm your teacher, Mr. White. May I come in so I can properly introduce myself to all of you at once?"
Dexter didn't hesitate to step back to let him in. From the corner of his peripheral he could see somebody right behind the teacher with piercing cloudy blue eyes glaring with fury at him that left Dexter stuttering slightly as he backed up a little more to make space.
"Of-Of course. Come in."
As Dexter made his way towards his seat, Mr.White revealed a large bag with boxes of pizza stacked on each other along with a few drinks. Making his way towards the center of the living room. Speaking calmly to Galena who held the remote.
"May you turn off the TV for now, please?"
"Mmmh! Do I smell pizza!?"
Spoken through excitement, Rudy immediately sat on the edge of his seat the moment the scent hit his nose. Galena was hesitant to turn off the TV when she noticed the piercing eyes of the mostly concealed girl behind him approaching before turning it off. The brother and sister were next to notice the intensity of the girl's aggressive presents. Immediately after, Izeurik was the last to notice. Just got done looking up from his phone from checking his message after receiving a text that said 'Oh and I forgot to say. If they haven't arrived already then they should be soon enough. Share what you can and take good care of her. Hopefully you remember each other, If not then do it as a favor for me. Can't tell you much since not my story to tell, but be patient with her. Okay I got to go, love you, talk soon.'
Izeurik was quite confused with the message. With no time to reply since now Mr.White was requesting their attention. His eyes quickly shifted to the girl who just met his stare. She stood in place, falling behind Mr.White stride, revealing herself to everyone fully. Straight blonde hair that's slightly tinted white drooped just below her shoulder with fair skin. The familiar face became crystal clear to Izeurik when noticing the tired slightly sickly cloudy blue eyes. Her piercing gaze widened like the open sky. All of the aggression faded as she sprinted at full speed towards Izeurik and pounced into the air several feet away. Shouting with pure innocent joy.
"Ize!"
Izeurik was frozen in place. A poor attempt to process this new situation he found himself in with the impending collision. Ciela launches herself out of his hair to get out of the way as the girl comes crashing against him. From the angle of the chair, it starts leaning solely against the back right leg for 2 seconds before the girl's weight tilts the balance once more and bringing the chair back down. Her face buried into his chest while she clinged on for dear life.
[ Character card:
Alice Atlas Evergarden.
Appearance: Ukrainian American.
Height: 5'0. ]
"Hello, Alice. Nice to see you again"
After the shock subsided, Izeurik rested his arms around and patted her back. Mr.White cleared his throat to get everybody's attention once more. All the while taking out the pizza, cups and paper plates.
"Let's get back on track. Hello, my name is Mr.White. I will be your teacher for the foreseeable future. And that over there... is Alice. Some complications arose so she will be staying here with you all as well... Nice to meet all of you, I already have your names. Oh and come help yourself to some food. My office will be down the hall to the left, but anyways we're going to be starting off strong. I will be summarizing the state of the world just in case you don't know it and let the information soak in overnight and we can go over everything again with questions later."
All but Izeurik and Alice one by one they grab themselves a plate and something to drink from the options. Izeurik did ask Rudy to grab him some who happily obliged. Ciela flew back into his hair. Sometimes leaving to go back to their new room to eat and drink her own food. Mr.White grabbed an extra chair from the dining room and brought it back. Sitting on the opposite end of the coffee table in front of the TV. Grabbing him some of the food as well before turning his head side to side to look at the kids before resuming speaking.
"I'll try to make it quick so during this time there will be no interruptions. No questions. Just eat, sit back and listen. If we get done eating and I haven't finished then we can all go get some dessert before it's too late, or then for after lunch tomorrow"
Rudy and Zaria both cheered just loud enough for the others to hear. A few smiles and glances between everyone, all silently hoping for the promise of dessert. All of them ate while waiting for the story to start. Izeurik was given two plates to share with Alice who made no movement to unbury her head from his chest. He would slowly end up eating her food as well. Quickly noticing her slight shaking and silent cries that soaked his chest. Unsure what to do he only offered a silent comfort by gently hugging her.
"Alright, so we're going to start pretty broad before narrowing it down... We are on the planet Gaia, the fifth planet from our lovely blue star, Sirius. Gaia is very big, big, big. Unfortunately 60% is water, 40% is land and 30 of that is forests. There are or were five continents, two of which are a little unknown if they're still intact. The one up North, East, South, Upper West, and Lower West. The continents of upper and lower are both in the unknown state. They are the continents that are floating and underwater. The North, East and South are all connected by land and sea with large natural bridges, tunnels, and caves all around.
Since the beginning of Gaia there has always held the magical power we call Mana. Little magical particles. Mana is inside everything. Mana's natural color is white, but this near instantaneously changes to blue. White we call Neutral Mana, It quickly wants to change into other types. The blue we call The World's Mana, It's what you will see the majority of the time. There's also a dark orange with black blobs we call Chaos Mana, being opposite of blue.
With mana you can bend and manipulate practically anything and everything around you depending on your strength and affinity. Although most creatures can survive without it, it is as precious as the very blood in your body. Especially since the mana is produced from it. If enough mana density is in a single place, it can even create Mana Crystals, which can be used for several different things or even create Elemental Beings from it. Which brings me to the different elements and what they mean. Different elements have their own colors associated with it. In the beginning it was a lot harder to find different crystals of different elements to test your own affinity on, so some people went their whole life not knowing what element belonged to them if it wasn't the basics.
The basic elements are. Red for Fire, Light blue for Water. Mix of Dark Green and Brown for Earth, And a Clear White for Air. If you look closely at them, for example, Fire... It won't just be simply red but resemble colors of a tiny flame. From a quick look, it just looks red.
After the basics, you have advanced. These are without colors but more about feeling the physical world. They're called Sonic Wave, Agua Wave, and Seismic Wave.
After advance, it's the expert and their colors. Light, which can actually be many colors. Mainly it's just bright. There's Dark, which is pure black. Spirit, which is white with a bunch of colors blended with it. Then Shadow, mostly black with some gray. Each of these also have their own realms.
After the expert, is the master. Life, a mixture of the four basics. Death, dark with light inside. You have Space, that doesn't have a color but more of a visible distortion. Then Time, like a soft white wrapped in thin gold. And Gravity, which is similar to space being transparent purple along with the visible distortion.
Lastly, you got the Special category. They can be bended quite easily just at a very dangerous price. With Order being blue like The World Mana but shimmering silver. Then Chaos, still dark orange with black blobs flowing within it.
These elements are overall what you can bend, but not break things. Then you have abilities which are more about control. Abilities can't be elements, but use them as a basis. Like having the ability Lava from a fire element. If you can control the Lava, then in most cases you can manipulate earth and fire too. Abilities are more engraved into your body. They have a chance to be passed down to your children or even through familiars. To have an ability you must be lucky to be born with a random one, inherit from your parents, or a lucky bond with a familiar. If you're not then you have to work hard to create your own. Which just means you have to be very knowledgeable about all of the elements involved. Also Inheriting an ability doesn't make you good at the elements related to it.
Elements bend things to your will and have little influence on their offspring. Abilities have a greater chance to be inherited and become ingrained into your body with knowledge how to use it. Then lastly you have DNA Seeds, they're as small as a seed or big as a fist. These things are incredibly rare and credibly unpredictable. Often better sold to a fool than to consume it yourself. They can be anything and be anywhere. Wake up fine, come home from work and have one on your pillow. DNA Seeds change your entire being. And if you're still able to have children it will forcefully be passed down. A fire seed may make it so any harm that comes to you turns your body into flames and have the attack pass right through. This can also be negated through other means, but that same fire seed could just make your hair always on fire, breathe fire, fire eyes, or turn you into a fire elemental entirely and so on. From mundane to the unbelievable. From the useless and frustrating to the life changing. A true gamble.
I believe that's the basis of the world before. Now let's skip to the year 3079 B.A, Before the Arrival. Even though everybody has mana the majority of people had it in a small capacity, In which no one knew how to increase. It's enough to power most magic tools, vehicles and such. So instead of society being built on magic alone, it blended with technology. By this time it was the most united the world has ever been. There was no more fear of war. The deadliest of the weapons was completely scrapped. There were still many other problems but there was progress. Progress that would be shattered. An event so massive humanity collectively decided to reset the calendar for the new world. Going by the initials A.A for After the arrival.
The arrival is where the silent Gods more than spoke, where there is no longer room for denial of their existence. Along with them were beast, angels, devils, demons, spirits, towers, and portals appearing everywhere. A true hell on Gaia. It was also the appearance of the Game system and a HUD, which is mainly a display. Allowing you to do and see things normally not possible, such as seeing how hungry you are and many other things through menus or on the side of your vision. But these things need to be unlocked by God's interference, killing a demon, or going inside a portal or tower for the first time. This wasn't always the case but over time things changed.
As we are now in the year 1677 A.A. Approximately only 2 billion that was once 20 billion remains. The East Is completely taken over by demons and the horde, renamed Dellaross. The North formed two ringed barriers as defense. This sanctuary is called New Hope. Then it's where we are now, down South we call Fort Dolrimaun. The North and South each hold approximately 1 billion citizens each.
With similar ring barriers that stand around 500 feet tall. Each barrier has two smaller rings around, from the inside and outside. That's the primary defense location which is around 25 feet. The outer ring is mainly where the preserved wildlife, farmers, and villagers live. Buildings tend to be wider and go underground. The inner ring is where they primarily build upwards.
After the arrival, we've lost all reliable contact with the upper and lower regions to the West. Any information is unreliable or deemed classified. All the animals were affected as well, turning into beasts and getting stronger, especially the ones in the ocean, making very few people willing to make the journey. Animals getting strong enough to gain sentience and being able to communicate. You primarily see these creatures up north.
Towers are places that appear out of the ground filled with treasures. They were scattered everywhere but over time all but two were destroyed by one reason or another. One each resides in the North and South and is built around them. The towers as well got stronger over time and it's the main key to get stronger nowadays. You will learn more about that when it's actually time to go in, if you choose to. You can go up the tower, which is best for a group of people and get strong together. Or you can go down the tower which is best for individuals. In New Hope 80% of people go up towers and dislike people going down. Vice versa for Fort Dolrimaun, hating people who go up.
Spirits slowly faded over time from sight. There's still around, all around us as I speak. Now only powerful spirits can be seen by those who weren't born with the ability to interact with spirits or learn to. No one has figured out how to train it yet.
Portals filled with monsters that randomly appear anywhere and everywhere. With the magic protecting the sanctuaries of the North and South, portals are a problem but not much of a concern. The closer you are to the tower or to outside of the wall the more they will appear. They're overly weak within the walls, but can still cause problems if not taken care of. Portals can break and the monsters can come out.
Some supernatural creatures were common but they're pretty much now rumors again. Others leave no doubt about it, like vampires are widely known and active a lot. The more dangerous Supernatural creatures that can't easily sneak around often just stay in the east with other demons and beasts.
The horde is just a horde. Creatures of hell that attack every night without fail. Weak against sunlight. As students In the program, This means you will be trained and sent out to serve for a year. Good chance you'll be defending off from the horde and patrolling for portals inside the wall before you're strong enough to take the ones outside.
The Gods slowly stop talking directly with people and showing themselves. It's said they will talk to you once you're a Chosen. It's also when you actually learn the names of the gods and not just what they're the god of. If you believe in a God and serve them, they can offer quests for rewards through the system. The system is used for many things which you will learn later.
For more current news to end it off, in Fort Dolrimaun, the government is doubling their efforts on pirates in their area. The government is also negotiating with a few other stronger individuals for territory to limit violence, and rumors of the fanatic group Daughters of Gaia resurfacing is more frequent as their activity grows more and more in recent years. Known to hide within the churches.
Up north in New Hope, chaos between the three main factions is still raging on after a little over 15 years ago. The government and the Dragon Dynasty teamed up to unleash a complete extermination mission against the Blood Dynasty. Unlike down south, up north held more guilds and family like groups. The Blood and Dragon Dynasty work differently but remain some of the oldest connected families in history thus far. Both of them possess a DNA seed and I'm sure you can make a guess of what.
The Dragon Dynasty It's pretty much just one family with a large number of followers that was never officially counted since they only consider family members a part of them. The followers increased to thousands. Only accepting the strongest into the main family. All of their followers have a middle initial and change the last name to Dragon. As an example, a main family member would be named Jimmy Dragon, and a follower, Jacob J. Dragon. They all only practice with fire related things and body hardening magic.
The Blood Dynasty has five families under the main. They're naming conventions worked a little differently. They each pick an initial for their respected families. Adding blood in the beginning of their last name except for the main family. Their middle name is Blood with their last name being Haven. For an example. Jackie Blood Haven for the main family. As for the first branch family who goes by the initial Don and last name River, It would be Jasmine Don BloodRiver.
Sometimes naming The middle name with the initial in it, such as a Donner BloodRiver.
The Blood Dynasty only had approximately 251 members in total. They work together to increase all of their family's strength. Each family specializes in a different field. Healing, assassination, attack force and such. Although they're all strong, only two were feared far more than others. The main family and the third branch family, S. BloodHart.
The BloodHarts are known to be long lived and they don't bear children often. Their family had fewest members and no one out of the dynasty quite knew their ability sense none they were mainly used as personal guards for the main family, captains if seen on a battlefield, or scouts if seen alone. If you see them alone, it was a 'do not engage' order placed on them. Let them watch, just run and report. No one risked keeping them alive when they fought.
As you can probably tell, the extermination mission failed. They say approximately 24% survived. Their main targets were the main and third branch. It's said 10 years ago they managed to teleport a powerful weapon that will help turn the tides of battle. The head of the Blood family still lives and the three children of the BloodHarts survived. Even today the three siblings are out for blood, ironically. Most of the adults in the other branch families have all died as well.
I tell you this because after you graduate and are done with your service, it is also one of the things you will need to think about where you're going to go. If you wish to stay in service and be transferred somewhere else or where to settle down. Down south if you work for the government you get good benefits but a lot of chaos and better opportunities to get stronger alone. Up north, probably not the best choice if you wish to stay in government or join anything related to the Dragon Dynasty since you will always be on edge. It's best to keep updated on the news. You're still kids so there's no need to think about it too much, but it's still something to think about a little bit.
Alright, That was a bit longer than I thought. I did add a few extra things... Ah and the mana heart. Seems I probably forgot a few things... Let me check the time."
As Mr.White was finishing up, he took a moment to look at the time. Glancing around at the kids realizing they finished all of the pizza and drinks. After rising from his seat, bringing the chair back to the kitchen.
"ah we'll be dealing with the mana heart shortly so no matter... So who's ready for dessert? Any ideas?"
After returning the chair he clapped his hands once in excitement. Mr. White saw each other's faces expressing something different. Zachariah yawns with tired indifferences, only perking up at the mention of dessert. Zaria was completely focused throughout it all, her head resting on her knee and she hugged her leg.
"Donuts? Vanilla cake? Cookies? Sweets?"
Her voice slowly rising, Zaria's slight squirming building excitement. Dexter with his calm demeanor, happy the story was over but still enjoyed it and wanted to learn more. Just wanting more free food. Adding his suggestions.
"ice cream could be good. Maybe donuts and ice cream?"
Rudy began stretching in his seat as if trying to wake himself up more and not pass out. Although interesting, it wasn't really his ideal way to spend time.
"that history is crazy. Definitely got a few questions. Speaking of ice cream, maybe a nice blueberry shake would be good"
"-oh I have so many questions, It's fascinating history and you didn't even mention the droids.-"
Galena added in, her eyes held focus and interest. Her smile halved when she remembered she would have to wait for questions. She was still excited to learn more but she was also waiting for her promised dessert.
"-but huhm, a strawberry shake that sounds nice."
"Ha ha, Don't worry young miss, it's going to be a long few years. With a lot of free time to catch you up on history. Although there's a lot to do, most of this time is spent socializing and preparing you for high school. For those who're going into service you'll be needing to know a little bit of everything"
Mr.White commented. Izeurik look down at Alice, slowly brushing his fingers through her hair. Although she was awake, it was obvious She was on the borderline of slumber. Ciela was fully asleep resting in his hair. He found the history quite interesting. A few things caught his attention, but what caught his attention more than anything was the Blood Dynasty. Thinking of his full name that he was always meant to be kept hidden, 'Izeurik Sol BloodHart'. Realizing if what Mr. White said it was true then he has three older siblings out there somewhere up north. Bringing his attention back to the teacher to speak.
As you can probably tell, the extermination mission failed. They say approximately 24% survived. Their main targets were the main and third branch. It's said 10 years ago they managed to teleport a powerful weapon that will help turn the tides of battle. The head of the Blood family still lives and the three children of the BloodHarts survived. Even today the three siblings are out for blood, ironically. Most of the adults in the other branch families have all died as well.
I tell you this because after you graduate and are done with your service, it is also one of the things you will need to think about where you're going to go. If you wish to stay in service and be transferred somewhere else or where to settle down. Down south if you work for the government you get good benefits but a lot of chaos and better opportunities to get stronger alone. Up north, probably not the best choice if you wish to stay in government or join anything related to the Dragon Dynasty since you will always be on edge. It's best to keep updated on the news. You're still kids so there's no need to think about it too much, but it's still something to think about a little bit.
Alright, That was a bit longer than I thought. I did add a few extra things... Ah and the mana heart. Seems I probably forgot a few things... Let me check the time."
As Mr.White was finishing up, he took a moment to look at the time. Glancing around at the kids realizing they finished all of the pizza and drinks. After rising from his seat, bringing the chair back to the kitchen.
"ah we'll be dealing with the mana heart shortly so no matter... So who's ready for dessert? Any ideas?"
After returning the chair he clapped his hands once in excitement. Mr. White saw each other's faces expressing something different. Zachariah yawns with tired indifferences, only perking up at the mention of dessert. Zaria was completely focused throughout it all, her head resting on her knee and she hugged her leg.
"Donuts? Vanilla cake? Cookies? Sweets?"
Her voice slowly rising, Zaria's slight squirming building excitement. Dexter with his calm demeanor, happy the story was over but still enjoyed it and wanted to learn more. Just wanting more free food. Adding his suggestions.
"ice cream could be good. Maybe donuts and ice cream?"
Rudy began stretching in his seat as if trying to wake himself up more and not pass out. Although interesting, it wasn't really his ideal way to spend time.
"that history is crazy. Definitely got a few questions. Speaking of ice cream, maybe a nice blueberry shake would be good"
"-oh I have so many questions, It's fascinating history and you didn't even mention the droids.-"
Galena added in, her eyes held focus and interest. Her smile halved when she remembered she would have to wait for questions. She was still excited to learn more but she was also waiting for her promised dessert.
"-but huhm, a strawberry shake that sounds nice."
"Ha ha, Don't worry young miss, it's going to be a long few years. With a lot of free time to catch you up on history. Although there's a lot to do, most of this time is spent socializing and preparing you for high school. For those who're going into service you'll be needing to know a little bit of everything"
Mr.White commented. Izeurik look down at Alice, slowly brushing his fingers through her hair. Although she was awake, it was obvious She was on the borderline of slumber. Ciela was fully asleep resting in his hair. He found the history quite interesting. A few things caught his attention, but what caught his attention more than anything was the Blood Dynasty. Thinking of his full name that he was always meant to be kept hidden, 'Izeurik Sol BloodHart'. Realizing if what Mr. White said it was true then he has three older siblings out there somewhere up north. Bringing his attention back to the teacher to speak.
"I do like the idea of shakes. We can make funnel cakes with the donuts."
Mr White began gesturing for everyone to stand up. Speaking as he continued walking to the door, meanwhile one by one, each of them began to rise from their seats.
"wonderful choices, come, come now children. Don't think I was going to bring the treats to you. I know I said it's mostly going to be socializing, but don't think you won't be training, everybody needs more stamina"
Izeurik was the last to stand. Speaking softly for Alice to stand with him. Gently grabbing a handful of her hair to lift her head up. After a few seconds of groaning Alice finally stood. Her eyes slightly swollen from the crying, although others would barely tell the difference from her normal tired sickly look. Her eyes were innocent before Izeurik. When she turned towards the door it was replaced with a more cold aggressive look. Only moving once he did. She stood right behind Izeurik, holding on to the back of his belt as if afraid he would leave.
After joining everybody at the door, Mr.White began leading everyone down the halls and stairs to the far end of the building to the cafeteria. Being the end of dinner time, there were more people leaving than going in as they finished up their food. Like a big buffet and a diner mixed together, Mr.White approaches the counter and orders the different ice cream shakes upon request. While waiting they all go and pick out their fresh donuts they wanted from the display rack. The whole time Izeurik paid no mind to Alice as she walked with her head slightly down and maintaining her hold. Trying to be as close as possible without touching. She held the donuts while he carried the shakes.
As everyone began to sit down at the table, Izeurik instead went to an empty one out of earshot from everyone else. When he and Alice sat down. Izeurik takes a bite out of his banana strawberry shake before turning his attention to her and speaking calmly but bluntly.
"You've gotten a lot more clingy and aggressive since last I saw you. What happened?"
Alice lazily took a few bites of her ice cream before pausing for a moment as if thinking what she would do next. Then suddenly turned her back away from everyone. Pausing for another moment before glancing up at Izeurik, opening her mouth a little wider than normal to expose four slightly longer sharper canines. With the top canines being 1.3cm and 1cm on the bottom. Leaving Izeurik grunting in acknowledgment While he analyzes them.
"Huhm, That's definitely new. How did that happen?"
"... Vampire experiment..."
Alice's body slowly begins to shudder at the mention of it as she begins to lose her composure. She places one hand on Izeurik thigh and squeezed tight. He didn't notice the change in demeanor soon enough as he was already asking the next question on his mind.
"So that's why your hair is a little white and you look a little bit more pale than I remember?"
She nodded her head very slowly. Noticing her state, Izeurik postpone the rest of his questions and tries to lighten up the mood and bring comfort in the first way he thought of. Gently tapping her thigh to try to get her attention.
"Hey... look"
Once he got her to look up at him, Izeurik used his index finger to pull his cheek to the side as he opened his mouth as well. Since last she saw, his canines have grown longer as well as the two outer teeth that were behind them, slowly descending from 1.6 to 1.2cm on top and 1.4 to 1.2cm on the bottom row.
"You got some like me now-"
What Izeurik failed to predict was Alice seeing sharp teeth again after displaying her obvious trauma. Lucky for him, at the sight of his teeth Alice did fine comfort. Stopping her shuddering and loosening up her grip.
"although mines are still bigger and I have more"
Izeurik playfully mocked. Slowly licking his 12 sharp teeth before pushing his shoulder up against hers with a little force to rock her. Alice chuckled before gently punching his arm. Grinning in protest.
"Mines are still growing! Plus I'm fine with them being small. Not like I want a large chainsaw mouth like yours"
They both laughed for a moment before Izeurik started turning her back around to her dessert. Izeurik patted her back and he began to speak more calmly and sincerely while turning his attention back to his own desert.
"Sorry I didn't come to play with you more..."
Alice used one head to grip his belt once again as she scooted up against him while sitting side by side. She couldn't remember the last time she smiled, laughed, or anything kind sense away from the church, Izeurik, and Sister Mary. Her smile almost faded. She spoke hushly with a hint of joy lingering.
"It's okay... I found you... Now we can be friends again..."
"Found me?"
Izeurik spoke towards himself barely audibly with a questioning tone. Almost stopping his train of thought before wrapping his arm around her head to lean her against him with a sideways hug. Resting his head on Alice's. Beginning to speak more clearly again.
"Never stop being your friend, dummy... This time I'll look after you even better. I'll get strong enough to protect you no matter where you are."
Alice let go of his belt to wrap the arm around Izeurik. Digging her nails in his skin.
"...Just ... No separating..."
She mumbled. Izeurik stroked her head, agreeing while repeating her words tenderly.
"Okay, just No separating..."
They both continue to eat their dessert in the silence they're both used to. Glancing up he noticed the teacher and the rest of the group was done sometime before they were. Afterwards they throw away their cups and join the group before they all return to the dorm room. Mr.White eyed everybody one last time as they reached the door, mainly looking at Izeurik and Alice who didn't hear it before.
"Do not stay up late, class will start at 8 in the morning. Be fully ready before then, no pajama pants."
Said sternly. Murmurs of agreements from the kids. The teacher turned around and headed back down the hall and turned to the left out of sight. One by one they all enter the dorm room. Zachariah didn't hesitate to enter his room. Zaria, Dexter, Rudy, and Galena sat on the couch, turning the TV back on. Izeurik made his way to the balcony. With his room not having a good source of the night light he decided to go outside each night on the balcony before laying down. Sitting on the floor, thinking about all that happened that day. Alice sat down right behind him, wrapping her arms around tight. All of their thoughts slowly faded. For Izeurik, being under moonlight. For Alice, being reunited with her only true friend once more.
One by one everybody returns to their rooms to sleep. Izeurik shutting down the house after being the last one with Alice. After switching to their pajamas she clung onto his arm. Ciela cooed and snuggled on side of his head. After a text to Sister Mary goodnight Izeurik slowly joined the others in slumber.
One alarm after another, the kids woke up and started to get ready for the day. One by one taking a shower in their respective bathrooms before getting dressed in their casual attire. By 8 o'clock in the morning all the kids were seated on the couch and chairs either watching TV or tuning it out.
When 8 o'clock came, Mr.White slid open the door to their dorm room. Addressing everybody while walking only a little bit in.
"Nice to see all of you already. Alright children, follow me."
Without waiting, the teacher turned around and started walking back down the hall and to the left. The children sped up their walk to keep up. When arriving to Mr.White's room they all entered. The design was similar to the children's dorm room. The key difference was that the middle was more of a classroom setting. Chairs and desk in a semicircle facing a big chalkboard.
"Take a seat for a moment. We will be moving into one of the smaller rooms shortly."
The teacher proclaims. Taking his seat in front of the semicircle facing the students as they all found their seats right next to their roommates.
"Izeurik, Zachariah, and Galena, You three will have an easier time with this. Take out your phones and search for the campus app. For the rest of you without a phone, fiddle with your wristwatch, use the hologram to navigate to find it. It should already be installed."
Mr.White instructed, he waited a moment while the kids were following his basic instructions before continuing.
"We won't be discussing this much. You'll be able to navigate the halls and the school grounds to anywhere you need to go. There's a lot of simple icons to help understand. Use your fingers to zoom in and out, and just clicking on stuff always helps to learn how it works. When you reach the map give me a quick hand raise for me to know. Will proceed once everybody is done"
Setting up slightly more proper by leaning on his arms against his desk. It wasn't long when rapidly one by one they all raised their hand. Alice was the last one after receiving help from Izeurik who was beside her.
"Excellent. Now with that done before we can start anything we're going to have to figure out what your affinity is to the elements. Does anybody know already?"
Mr.White asked, glancing among the students.
"I have a fire affinity."
Zechariah announced that was immediately followed up by his little sister Zaria.
"I have a little of the fire affinity"
Mr.White gathering folders of each student. Flipping through a few while looking at the information. Dexter raised his hand slightly to add on.
"I also have a fire affinity"
Rudy shrugged while announcing he had no clue. Izeurik and Alice are doing the same. Mr.White began speaking once more while rising to his feet. Gesturing for the children to do the same.
"ah excellent. Well it's time to make sure and figure it out. Come come now, this way... What we're going to do is do something similar to tarot cards, If you know what they are. A glimpse into your possible future and who you are"
He explained while guiding the students into one of the side rooms. Standing by the door, he held it open to be the last one to enter. Locking the door behind them. The room is completely white and empty other than the light in the middle ceiling and a small altar just below it. The teacher made his way to the center where there was an altar built into the floor. Markings like a ritual cover the altar down and spread out to all the corners of the floor. On top of the altar rested a simple round crystal ball on a red pillow. A few wires visible underneath the crystal that connected within the pillow.
"This is called a Fate Stone. Instead of collecting all of the crystal stones for each element, after the arrival many things changed. One of the things we were blessed with, is this. In a sense it shows who you are and what you will be. They won't be direct and something that's meant to be interpreted. Although in most cases it's pretty obvious. Now who wants to go first?"
After his explanation, Galena immediately stepped forward. With Mr.White guidance Galena stood next to the altar. The teacher took a step back while advising everyone to spread out just a little to have a better look around. Using a remote he clicked the button. The crystal ball slowly starts to glow, constantly siphoning a little of Galena's mana. Soon in expanding distorting waves pulsing out of the crystal. Although different, this reminded Izeurik of his illusionary ability. Everything around them started to change. No longer standing in a white room but one dark and metal. The only light was from electricity bouncing off of tall metal pillars that lit up the immediate area. The flooring under them was wood. The walls were nowhere to be seen off in the distance. Just more metal rods staking up from the ground and electricity bouncing off of them disappearing into the distance. The rods were surrounded with scrap metal of all kinds.
All of the children jumped in surprise at the new sight suddenly appearing. Mr.White glanced around carefully to analyze everything. Speaking his thoughts out loud while explaining to everybody.
"Hmm, Now this is a good opportunity to tell you about other elements that weren't listed as basic. It seems Galena here has a metal and lightning affinity. Metal comes from Earth, and lightning from fire. Pretty lucky given your ability and passion, young madam."
He spoke cheerfully. Meanwhile Ciela peeked her head out of Izeurik's hair to get a better look. Zaria tried touching one of the scrap metal. Realizing it had actual weight. Even her steps echoed, But as Mr.White hit the button again on the remote everything began to flicker and fade away once more to the white room. Marking the results down on a clipboard.
"Alright, good metal and electricity affinity. Presumably connection with inherited ability for machinery... And now who's next?"
The atmosphere in the room was filled with a bit more excitement and curiosity. Zaria immediately stepped forward replacing Galena by the altar. After the button was pressed, the room began to change once more. There was a clear blue sky with a white sun beaming down at them standing in a short bladed Field of flowers that stretched to the horizon. The wind constantly blew and swirled. Grass and flowers alike were carried by the wind. Random holes were scattered around across the ground filled with an endless steady flame being fed by the debris landing in it.
The kids looked around analyzing. Zaria smiled brightly at the sight of it all. Excitement flowed from her voice traveling against the air.
"So pretty! Zero, look at the flowers!"
Reaching down at her feet to plug one of them and giving it a smell. Inhaling with a delightful reaction.
"Mmh- It smells lovely too. How can it smell nice if it's not real?"
Zaria asked the teacher with a more curious confused tone, taking precedence.
"No one really knows for certain. It's all too random and inconsistent to make any concrete conclusions. There's many theories and studies but one thing that is certain, the things we see here always include the elements you're born with. Sometimes showing you a glimpse of what you will do. Like Galena with the scrap metal. It's a good chance she'll be building or breaking things. The studies and experiments were quite fascinating."
Mr.White felt a sense of enjoyment explaining it all. Walking around the barrier of where the room walls would be. Taking a good look before starting to jot things down on his clipboard.
"High winds with low steady flames, Zaria, You have a high affinity for wind, low for fire. Possible for fire affinity to grow quickly"
After pressing the button once again and ending the scenery, Rudy was the next one to approach. As the scene changed, the white room shifted into a large clearing surrounded by distant trees. The ground was broken up with a few large mud piles circling them. When looking down at the ground everyone noticed they were standing on a brick platform surrounded by a small moat of water. Looking closer Mr.White noticed flowers buried inside the dirt piles. High strong winds were wrestling the trees that didn't enter the clearing.
"Quite the heavy ruckus, great wind affinity for sure. Not a lot of dirt or rock formations. Most likely a low earth affinity. Same thing for the water, a low water affinity."
Explained the teacher while writing down the results. Rudy is a bit confused and slightly disappointed.
"Aw man, I kind of thought it would be cooler."
After Mr.White presses the button once more and reverts it back to the white room, Rudy leaves the center. Joining Galena and Zaria a little off to the side to separate those who went and didn't. Murmuring to each other while waiting for the next. A quick glance between the other children before Zachariah was next to step forward. The scene changes once more. Appearing under the sky once again, with the normal blue sun. The first thing they noticed was the empty dryness. The second thing they noticed was the ground moving and shaking. Only their immediate vicinity was safe as the ground cracked, morphed and shifted amongst each other. In between the cracks raging flames were bursting out everywhere.
"This is quite a simple one...not much to see either. Good fire affinity with a bit less Earth affinity for you, Zechariah."
Changing back to the white room while jotting down the results. Dexter was next to step forward. The room changed once more. Before the scene was fully focused, the first thing everyone could feel was the beaming hotness of the yellow sun shining on them. The sky was a rainbow of different shades. The second thing they noticed, outside of the room barrier where they stood on a tiled floor, was fire. Just fire everywhere to the horizon. Rising high and low. Everyone was in awe at the scenery before them, even Mr.White.
"Such heat... well... I think it's safe to say you have a Grand affinity with fire."
Glancing around he saw everyone other than Dexter fanning themselves from the heat. A few nods of acknowledgment. Mr.White took it as a good sign to not postpone anymore. Returning the room back to white before jotting down the results. Dexter begins to join the others with the nervous chuckle.
"Sorry about that"
He softly muttered.
"You're fine, Just don't turn into a hot head"
Galena teased, patting Dexter on the back to comfort him. Izeurik was next to approach. Standing right next to the altar as Mr.White pressed the button. The room changed outdoors once again. The first to appear was the blue sun Sirous. Before the rest could appear darkness took over. The sun morphed into a blue moon shining down on everyone and they stood on white sand. Blue moonlight particles floating around everyone to further illuminate the immediate area. Beyond where the room walls would be, everything slowly faded into a deep darkness. The air was cool and the distant sounds of water pushing on to shore beyond the darkness where they couldn't see...
Although this was what the others saw and heard. Izeurik would realize he saw things a little differently as Mr.White started to analyze out loud.
"oh... interesting, that's a new one... The Sun changed? Normally things don't change and should just appear as a moon unless there's a deeper meaning... It could symbolize a change or restriction of some kind... hmm fascinating. As for the elements I see two expert elements with possibly two basic ones. A clear good light affinity but perhaps solely for moonlight that will require further tests... Fascinating, you don't see that everyday... They're deep dark shadows that are not affected by light. A distant pure darkness. Definitely a dark affinity... slowly fading with distance, seems it's focused on concealment... I say a grand dark affinity... Sandy Beach. Possible minor earth affinity? Distant shores? Possible minor water affinity"
While Mr.White was analyzing and everybody was glancing around, Izeurik was having a different experience. The moment the moonlight took over endless whispers filled his head. Intense different emotions not his own flowing through his body. A similar feeling of a familiar bond drowning his mind. Distant weak connections out in the distance. He was certain Mr.White didn't hear what he was hearing or he would have said something and was Izeurik certain the teacher couldn't see what he was seeing as well. It wasn't a mere sandy beach but grind up bones made into a beach. Littered with bones of all sizes and shapes just where the darkness faded from the other's sight. Most of them are in the shape of solid bone hands, antlers or skulls.
There was no darkness to hide anything from Izeurik. The moonlight made it clear that the distant shore was not water but an ocean of blood flowing and staining the bone shoreline. The whispers were rapidly getting louder. He could tell the direction they were coming from. Focusing intensely while thinking to himself.
"Who... who is that speaking? I think...there you are... wait..."
The whispers continued and got more clear. Izeurik realized it was repeating his thoughts, feelings, and describing everything he's doing...
"wait... You can hear me? No no no..."
I asked him. Shock, curiosity and concern filled my voice. Yet there was something more...excitement... The familiar scent I craved for so long.
"Are you in my head? Why are you narrating everything? Are you even narrating yourself? For love of the gods, stop repeating my thoughts... stop this violent craving feeling."
Izeurik spoke to the narrator with curiosity of his own along with a growing frustration and fear. As he stared in the distance, he watched a figure rise from the bloody ocean to stand on top of it just too far away to make out the details. A slender figure wearing robes with a glowing blood red halo with eyes burning of desire and a sharp smile filled that held a twisted warm predatory devouring hunger stuffed in excitement. How could I not smile when seeing him? As if I wasn't starved of his flesh, for his eyes to look upon me, oh my love... But...This shouldn't be... He shouldn't hear me... Shouldn't see me... Why is watching different this time?
"Stop talking or thinking or whatever this is! Stop these crushing emotions! It's too many voices, Too many feelings! Who the fuck is so angry!?"
Izeurik's screamed in his mind at the narrator. The clarity of her voice was crushing him. His mind was growing loud, almost painfully. It reminded him of when his chest and mind was being ripped apart by the mana heart. Although it wasn't painful, each second passed it was rapidly getting closer to such a level. The rush of intense emotions caused Izeurik's face to contort as if he was in deep concentration. Such a mind was not meant to process such a heavy presence. His curiosity shifted to something more of deeper fear as he noticed two more figures rising from the blood ocean along with several animal heads from deers, elk, moose and cervidae humanoid hybrid creatures. More eyes staring at him from within the bones on the shore.
Rising from behind the narrator was a tall slanky hybrid figure standing on hind legs with the head of a deer skull. So many creatures, some with too many eyes. Increasingly becoming overwhelmed staring at Izeurik, So many unknowns for him. So many voices and feelings. All of which faded for a brief moment when Mr.white called out to him after just finishing his analysis.
"Do you see anything out there Izeurik? Looks like you're concentrating hard. Anything out of the ordinary with the sand and water?"
The teacher asked but Izeurik didn't know how to reply. There was a quick whisper in his head that took precedence from all the others of caution to reveal such things that he too will soon forget.
"no... looks like halfway to the horizon starts the shoreline. Then it's still water the rest of the way. It's kind of hard to see even for me. Water pushes on the land but barely looks like it's even moving. Just looks empty... might just be dark and light affinity."
Izeurik spoke confidently as he took that advice of the whisper. Frustration spiking within him with curiosity. A demand for answers was precedence. Answers he would never have. Time was short and even if it wasn't it'll be all for not... A surprise so pleasant and worrying...I should say my goodbyes before it's over...
"Don't worry, Little Weeping Devil, I will do my best to make you forget and correct this anomaly... we will see each other again when it's time..."
Softly spoken by the narrator, I couldn't stop my voice from cracking in the end, as I couldn't stop another bloody tear dripping down into the ocean. For a moment all the voices turned silent as the teardrop echoed all the way to Izeurik as if he was right next to her. All of the mixed overwhelming emotions that filled him all turned sorrow.
"Yeah, seems about right. If there's nothing interesting happening then it's just a filler background. Alright, a good lunar light affinity, and a pretty good darkness affinity. Primarily concealment"
Mr.White agreed. Izeurik glanced around back at the strange figures from the three humanoids standing on the bloody ocean to a dozen cervidae and hybrids peeking their heads out from the bone beach and bloody ocean. Of course the strange tall hybrid creature standing behind the humanoid figures as well. He could feel all of our sorrow. I couldn't stop myself from mumbling my heartbroken filled words.
"... Hurry, and come back home... My Love..."
Mr.White pressed the button on the remote once more. Bringing the room back to white. Izeurik stood frozen for a moment. Feeling like there is something he was supposed to remember, as if something was missing. It was hard for him to focus with constant quiet whispers in his head. He felt like it wasn't always there but he couldn't remember when it started. He knew he didn't have it this morning. Did it have something to do with the altar vision? He couldn't be quite sure. His focus was broken once again when Alice stepped forward. He realized what was happening. Smiling at Alice, giving her a comforting shoulder pat before walking off to the side to join the others.
In the short moment while waiting for Alice's turn, he felt Ciela quivering and his hair. Their connection felt strange, appeared stronger yet... warped in a way he couldn't quite figure out. Izeurik tried to speak to Ciela through their mental link but only forgetful confusion was the response. Ciela was scared and sad but she didn't know why. Izeurik gently pulled her out of his hair. Nuzzling her tenderly. Deciding to hold her for the rest of the time so he can continue to stroke her lovingly.
Mr.White pressed the button, the white room vanishing for the last time. The sun along with the sky was densely covered. Several spots spread out allowing equally dense beams of light down. It was bright yet shady all at the same time. They all stood on top of a small hill, grass and flowers stretching through the horizon. For every few beams of light there was a tall wood pillar right in front of it to help cash shadows. One of the shadows on each pillar was the difference, noticeably darker than the others and slightly squirming dance. Mr.White walked around while taking it all in.
"Oh. Another double expert element. Strong light affinity, concentrated. And by the look of the shadows. A low shadow affinity. An interesting combination. Luckily there's nobody here with a unique element. We can get you all some crystals to start training."
Mr.White jotted down the last result. Turning off the crystal and started to escort everybody back out the room. The kids continue discussing their experience while following behind. Sitting back down in their chairs and waiting for what will come next.