208.3 Seira and the Academy of Magic

[Corwin]

[21:10] <Anastasia> ---
[21:13] <Anastasia> After the Kelaran affair settles out, Seira and company return to Balmuria. That evening Seira goes to visit Countess Stronger. AS she exists, a muscle bound man in battered full plate armor and a bushy beard is exiting. He has a barbed, horrible greataxe slung over his shoulder, whistling merrily. Elle is at the counter, inspecting what looks tto be a pile of gems.
01[21:16] <Seira> "Hi!" Seira greets the Countess. "So I hear you're not really into politics? A nice estate, some ever-helpful subjects... could've been fun."
[21:20] <Anastasia> Taking a small gemstone and polishing it against her sleeve gently, "Yes, well...the piles of gold, gems and magical items were a good counter argument," she grins to Seira. "Honestly, I didn't think I had the time to do both, once I heard what they wanted out of me."
01[21:27] <Seira> "The answer is to smile and nod. And delegate. A lot." Seira shrugs. "Then again, I can't really fault any resolution that keeps you near because I like you a lot and would be sad if you left."
[21:30] <Anastasia> "That too," Elle smiles and puts back the gem. "That and I'd have less time to marvel at all the lovely things you bring back. That gnomish axe just sold for quite a good pile of gemstones." Whistling a merry note at it, "I'm getting better and better at itemscrafting, I don't want to give it up just when I'm becoming exceptional."
01[21:31] <Seira> "This clearly calls for a challenge." Seira nods to herself. "I'll rise up to it with my order."
[21:34] <Anastasia> "Oh, did you come here to order something," Elle perks up instantly, "Well then, what do you want?"
01[21:35] <Seira> "A pair of boots. Mine served me well, but I want a change." Seira waves airily. "But I can give you all the details later. How have you been? It occurs to me that I haven't been around much recently."
[21:36] <Anastasia> "Yes. Going and killing an invading army of devils does that," Chuckling warmly, "Hold on a moment, I need to drop these in back. My help has the day off." With a slight pout she heads back with the gems, returning without them briefly after. "Aaah then. How are you? Still learning?"
01[21:38] <Seira> "Ah, yes. Your help. I heard of some young mage you've gotten for yourself, but haven't had a chance to meet... her?"
[21:41] <Anastasia> "Yes. I so needed the relief. When you spend days enchanting magical equipment, you need someone to run things." Elle rubs the back of her neck, "She's a bit quiet, but she's a good worker."
01[21:44] <Seira> "But she's not an awesome dragon-elf, right? She's just a boring, mundane human with some magic, right?"
[21:45] <Anastasia> "What, are you becoming popular enough to have imitations? No, she's not particularly noteworthy like that."
01[21:46] <Seira> "I'm relieved I'm not being replaced for a younger model," Seira says to that, really does sounding relieved. "Though I doubt she would actually be younger. It's just a figure of speech."
[21:47] <Anastasia> "...Seira, are you nervous?" Elle stops her amusement, "...Really now, I just needed some extra help, and you're tied up saving the world and being a legendary adventurer."
01[21:50] <Seira> "I cannot respond to that while being truthful and preserving my dignity at the same time," Seira tells her. "And while we're on the subject, Elle, except not really, what would you think about having contacts in the Fiefdoms? Actual contacts that sell your wares and advertise and make purchases for you?
01[21:50] <Seira> The works. I'm trying to establish a base of power in Arad, and I would be really happy if you decided to join the venture. You know, either by having the temple of Waukeen refer people to you, or opening an actual branch over there."
[21:56] <Anastasia> "I could...but there is one concern. While I'd love to make more money and spread influence, I'm about at my capacity for making items. Between the custom orders I take form the guard, comissions and general work, I can't pump out an more than I am." Stretching back at this, "Even with a relative upsurge of magical items in the last year, I doubt I can make enough to seriously fuel another venture without some aid. That brings me to my
[21:56] <Anastasia> ome aid. That brings me to my next point -w hat about that magic school of yours?"
01[21:58] <Seira> "I can certainly make the more talented graduates an offer they won't refuse," Seira mentions. "Quite a lot of them are in this to get rich and avoid the battlefield. Having them make a living through crafting would be an ideal solution to their concerns."
01[21:59] <Seira> "Also," she adds suddenly, "there is much to be gained from trading, and this would open new opportunities -- a whole new clientelle that could sell you wares, not just request them made."
[22:01] <Anastasia> "I do trade a fair bit. Mages don't seem to be the sort to like to move directly from whatever keep they've taken great pains to establish, but I get emissaries with trade offers at times. Also, I do good business with travellers with good coin and the temples here. Still, as Balmuria's getting richer, the demand is outstripping the supply and my capacity to fill it."
[22:05] <Anastasia> "Still..." Thinking, "That's another reason. A base of crafting wizards here would help flush out the magical community and expand it."
01[22:05] <Seira> "Maybe I was too clever for my own good again and not clear enough. I will offer the graduates that show promise in the field and whose personalities are compatible with it to work with you, and give them favorable conditions I will finance entirely myself if need be since this is something that ultimately benefits all of the Baronies."
[22:10] <Anastasia> "Fine then," Elle agrees, "It'll probably take a bit of time to sort them out and get them running smoothly once I get them, but not dreadfully long."
01[22:15] <Seira> "Here's to making them productive magical citizens!" Seira blinks. "Well, this would sound better if I had a glass to toast with. But it's the thought that counts, right?"
[22:17] <Anastasia> Elle goes behind the counter, coming up with glasses and a bottle. "No, it's not magical," she chastens, removing a cork. "Still...yes, cheers. Oh! That reminds me. I got in touch with Lyselle."
01[22:18] <Seira> "Ah, yes!" Seira listens, holding up a glass for Elle to pour wine into. "How is she? Did the devil assassin leave a pretty sword behind? Ours did!"
[22:19] <Anastasia> "It's been inconclusive so far. I sent a few tokens of my esteem to help out." After pouring and taking a sip, "They're prepared, which should eliminate some of the danger."
01[22:21] <Seira> "Tell her that our devil was annoying and used Nondetection or some variant. Posting guards outside or having the basic alarm and see invisibility spells around may not help as much." Seira drinks from the wine herself. "And the sword's wounds could only be cured on holy ground, pretty much. Very nasty."
[22:23] <Anastasia> "Ugh. Vicious bastards," Elle makes a sour face, "I'll pass it along. Lyselle's capable enough. Oh, speaking of up north." She stops there. "Seira, is something going on at that temple of Helm? The one that had the gnomish city?"
01[22:26] <Seira> "Yes. It holds a sentient artifacts that can open gates to other planes of existence," Seira responds bluntly, if suitably quietly. "It's a secret, of course."
[22:31] <Anastasia> "Oh. I was wondering. I did some business with someone heading in that direction. He was a bit strange about it." A shrug, "I suppose it's not terribly important to me."
01[22:32] <Seira> "Oh? Would you mind filling me in?"
[22:35] <Anastasia> "Strange guy. He was middle aged and with a bad limp. He kept rubbing a holy symbol to Helm - one of those eyed gauntlets - and wanted me to enchant his spear. When it didn't work out, he just left." Waving her hand back and forth to the side, "Eeeeh. I didn't wanna ask our resident paladin of Helm, since I couldn't figure how to say, 'Oh Demedais! Do you know any middle aged loons who are in town and worship Helm!'"
01[22:39] <Seira> "That's okay, I can do that," Seira says readily.
[22:46] <Anastasia> "Good," Starting to smile, "Will he stare daggers into you when you ask?"
01[22:48] <Seira> "It's not the same if he doesn't," Seira agrees. "Oh! And happy early birthday!"
[22:50] <Anastasia> "Hm?" Elle asks, looking to Seira, "Are you about to give me something, then?" She smiles despite it.
01[22:52] <Seira> "Pyroclastic dragon scales," Seira says, nodding at her. "I saw them, and I thought of you." She wrinkles her forehead, before adding, "In a good way."
[22:52] <Anastasia> "...yes. As much as you pull it off well, I hope I don't remind people of a dragon myself." Chuckling with a red face there, "Pyroclastic...that doesnt' sound like a normal type of dragon."
01[22:54] <Seira> "It's an evil hell dragon, but that's okay! The nice celestial people told me the evil part could be fixed." Seira gives her a thumbs up for good measure.
[22:56] <Anastasia> "Dragonscale's good for anything. I'll have to check up on any possible uses for those sort of scales, but I'm sure I can come up with something," Elle agrees. "Dragons...just when Hell couldn't get any nastier."
01[23:00] <Seira> "It's okay, don't worry about a thing." Seira pats Elle's arm. "I don't like fiends one bit, so however nasty they get I'll just be there to kill the lot of them and they won't actually get a chance to harm anyone. There's no need to be apprehensive of Hell whatsover, because we're on the right side and that means we get to kick Hell's butt!"
[23:14] <Anastasia> "Good attitude," she smiles to Seira, "Alright. Let me close up now and get to work. It's late and I need to start researching."
06[23:15] * Seira nods. "Call on me if you need the help, alright?" she tells Elle suddenly. "Because it's you, I'll get right over. Unless there's, like, an invasion of Prime in progress at the time."

[Corwin]

[20:12] <Kotono> -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[20:16] <Kotono> REturning to her nestled away magical school, Seira finds it bustling with activity. A shipment of supplies comes in by wagon, as the grounds have people wandering. It seems to be going rather well as she settles into the Headmaster's office, an older woman listening. "So, you want to talk to each of them?" she asks. "Any preference in the order?"
03[20:18] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
01[20:19] <Seira> "I have their progress reports," Seira responds, leafing through the papers in her hands as she settles behind her desk comfortably. "I need to speak to Ragnar before meeting Wayne, and it would be nice if Ren followed Elby. Jillia and Grenseal... I wish to meet them together, if possible."
[20:21] <Kotono> "Right, I'll sort those out while I send in the rest," she says, "Just wait and I'll start filtering them in."
06[20:21] * Seira takes a moment to decorate her office with some faerie light as she waits.
[20:22] <Kotono> "Oooooh! Pretty!" You get a giggle as the first one enters within a minute. It's little Gwenn, a shocker lizard draped around the back of her neck. It's blue sparks join the faerie fire around the room. "Oh..." she look sto Seira, "I'm not in trouble, am I?"
01[20:24] <Seira> "You weren't told why I wanted to see you?" Seira asks, gesturing towards a comfortable armchair that faces her desk. "Please have a seat." She marks off something on a sheet of paper set before her.
01[20:24] <Seira> "How have you been, Gwenn?" Seira asks, looking back at the girl.
[20:25] <Kotono> "Oh..." Rubbing her lizard's head, "I was walking outside and I got told to come in here right away." She stops, "It's nice here. I miss Mom and Dad a lot, but I learn lots of fun things like they wanted me to."
01[20:26] <Seira> "When was the last time you saw them?"
[20:27] <Kotono> "Not since I came here. They send letters," she reaches into her dress, pulling out a well worn sheet of parchment. "I can even read them and some of the big words Mom uses now!"
01[20:28] <Seira> "You know," Seira says, placing her elbows on the desk and leaning closer to the girl, "my dad is pretty far away, too. He's so far, in fact, that I can't even send a letter to him because no one delivers all the way where he's at. But with magic, I can talk to him just fine, or see him... or even pop in for a visit!"
[20:28] <Kotono> "Oh!" He reyes light up, "Can you show me how to do that?"
01[20:29] <Seira> "Of course! But you might have another option," Seira muses then. "Did you ever try asking a pigeon or some other bird to deliver a message for you to your parents? Or take them a small present you made?"
[20:32] <Kotono> "I could try. What do you think," she look sto the lizard on her, then nods. "He says it's a good idea!"
06[20:33] * Seira smiles. "I'll make you a deal! If you succeed by next weekend, I'll ready a fun surprise for you! How does that sound?"
[20:34] <Kotono> "Okay!" Gwenn agrees brightly. "It's a deal!"
06[20:35] * Seira extends her hand over for Gwenn to shake. "I look forward to it."
[20:36] <Kotono> The hand is tak-ow! A slight shock ripples through Seira's arm as the hand is shaken. "Okay!" she says, skipping off and out the door.
06[20:37] * Seira is well-protected against electricity, and even if she weren't, she'd hardly show any pain or surprise at this. She follows Gwenn to the door, and waves her assistant closer discretely.
01[20:38] <Seira> "Please spend a few moments to explain to those getting called in that I merely want to talk to them," she requests quietly. "It wouldn't do to get everyone antsy for no reason."
[20:43] <Kotono> "Of course," she bows her head to Seira before departing out. It's a few minutes until the next enters. A teenaged boy, a light pair of spectables perched on his nose, "Ah. Headmaster?"
01[20:44] <Seira> "Hello, Leonard," Seira greets him. "How do you find the school so far?"
[20:46] <Kotono> "Oh, ma'am," he nods, "It's very interesting, I'm learning new things every day."
01[20:51] <Seira> "I'm glad to hear that. At the same time, I worry that we are missing you with our approach. As you well know, we are only starting out, and it would take time until we adjust the curriculum to properly fit every student's talents."
06[20:51] * Seira looks contrite. "I'm sorry about that. To correct the situation, I would like to offer you an opportunity over the break. It would mean not going home or staying here for the duration, but spending time studying under my friend Amman. Would you like to give it a chance?"
[20:53] <Kotono> "Ah..." The young man blushes, blurting out, "I can do better, I'm getting it, it just takes ti-eh?" He takes a breath near the end of that, "Aaah...do you think that Amman is a good teacher?"
01[20:56] <Seira> "To focus one's efforts on learning, research and the power of knowledge," Seira quotes from memory. "Wouldn't you agree with that as a worthy goal, perhaps even a motto? If so, then I would like you to give this a try. Amman's talent for storytelling is great and engaging...
01[20:56] <Seira> and if you learn enough to be able to resist the flair's effects on you, only to put them to paper, recreating them for future generations...." Seira smirks. "Magic will come to you before you even notice it, magic specially tailored to aid you in your chosen path, no less."
[20:57] <Kotono> "Storytelling?" SCratching his head, Leonard nods nonetheless, "Okay, if you think it would hlep, I'd like to try, Headmaster."
01[20:58] <Seira> ""Stories hold great power," she tells him seriously. "Very well. I will arrange for your family to be informed, then, unless you'd prefer to handle that part yourself."
[20:59] <Kotono> "Aaah...go ahead, ma'am," he allows.
06[21:00] * Seira nods. "Well, that is what I wished to discuss with you. As Amman is effectively staying with me, you could also come to me with any issues you might have. Are there any you would like to raise now?"
[21:02] <Kotono> "N-no, not right now. Except..." Blushing, "Can I ask you something?"
06[21:03] * Seira gestures at him to continue.
[21:05] <Kotono> "Did Gwenn say anything about me," he asks. "I saw her coming out of here."
06[21:06] * Seira leans back in her chair. "Ask again in two years," she tells him with a smile.
[21:06] <Kotono> "Oh...okay," He nods quickly, hurrying out.
[21:10] <Kotono> Next enters a man with dusky brown skin. He slightly nods to Seira as he enters, "Kemal, ma'am," he supplies, a slight accent to his voice. "You wished to see me?"
01[21:11] <Seira> "I had," she agrees. "Please take a seat." Seira picks up a folder from her desk, glancing at its contents as she waits on him.
[21:12] <Kotono> He sits down. "What do you want to talk to me about?"
01[21:12] <Seira> "Tell me, Kemal," Seira asks at that, observing him over the top of the folder in question, "what are your plans for the future? How far do you intend to take your talent? Your studies? What do you wish to do with your life?"
[21:14] <Kotono> "Well..." he scratches at the side of his head, "My father was a merchant, but our family before that worked at Wetwind Harbor as masons and craftsmen. The bug skipped a generation, but I have it strong.
06[21:17] * Seira nods. "As long as you don't intend to neglect the magical part of the crafting, and continue to seek to combine the two arts, I believe I could help with your progress considerably. Would you be interested in participating in professional specialization over the break?
01[21:18] <Seira> To work under accomplished magical artificers and craft your own wares for sale? Your abilities and style would be polished, and gaining expertise and money along the way, perhaps even securing a firm place in the community in advance if you do exceptionally well/|
[21:18] <Kotono> "I would," he answers breathlessly, eyes shining, "That's what I've been studying - it's still a bit away for me, but I think I can do it soon. I've already managed to brew a few potions successfully. But I want to build things of iron and stone and glass."
01[21:20] <Seira> "Grand things will have to wait," Seira says bluntly. "You realize this, of course? Before we fly, we walk, and before that we learn to crawl. It is my belief that this opportunity would help in your transition to walking firmly as a crafting mage."
[21:23] <Kotono> "I get that. It took me a good year to make a wood carving I wasn't ashamed of,"  Kemal agrees readiily. "You don't craft something righ ton your first try, or even your tenth.
[21:23] <Kotono> :"
01[21:24] <Seira> "Most people would respond 'unless you use magic' to that, but we know better," Seira adds, nodding in agreement herself. "It takes time to get things right."
[21:25] <Kotono> "Magic's just as hard, but it's a shortcut for when you have learned it." Kemal agrees to that, "Where would I train on this, then?"
01[21:27] <Seira> "You are familiar with Countess Stronger, perchance? I have inquired with her in advance, and the opening is there if you wish to take it. And once you complete your education here, a more permanent job offer could be arranged, or a letter of recommendation, depending on your preference."
[21:29] <Kotono> "I'd like to," he says, "She's becoming the best known magical crafter from here to the end of the desert."
01[21:30] <Seira> "And farther than that, soon enough," Seira adds with a satisfied smile.
[21:30] <Kotono> "Thank you," he stands, offering Seira his hand. "I was hoping I could contact her after this to inquire about learning from her, so this is wonderful."
06[21:31] * Seira takes his hand as she stands up in turn, shaking it firmly. "I am quite pleased to hear that."
[21:32] <Kotono> "Thanks...I'm going to go prepare now," he promises, heading off and away. It's not long for the next one - a young boy, not even ten. Ragnar looks up at Seira, the old woman escorting him in. "Ooooh! It's brain hurt gir...ow!" After getting thumped on the back of the head by the old woman, "I mean the Headmaster!"
01[21:36] <Seira> "You could call me Seira if you'd like," she offers. "I like that you've remembered your experience, though whether you've learned from it remains to be seen." Seira tilts her head as she looks at him. "What do you think? Have you learned?"
[21:40] <Kotono> Rubbing the back of his head, "I still get yelled at alot, but it's not fair! There's so many interesting thoughts around! For example, Biggs always thinks of outdoors and nature now, so it's better than being at a window! Grenseal thinks about wrestling a lot and that's fun, even if it's with a girl and cooties! Or about how Gwenn thinks and talks to her pet."
06[21:42] * Seira can't entirely control the slight twitch her left eye makes. "And while talking to me about this is well and expected, do you share those thoughts with others as well?"
[21:44] <Kotono> "Not really. I get yelled at even more when I do..." he shuffles down and stares at the floor.
01[21:45] <Seira> "I'm glad you've learned that lesson," Seira says, nodding in approval. "But let's try to get another right without excessive yelling?" She waves him over.
[21:46] <Kotono> He comes over, looking up at the half elf. He nods, and as he does, "You look funny," he says out loud, "You kind of remind me of Gwenn pet now. Scaly!" He says that with a little giggle.
01[21:48] <Seira> "That's because I'm a dragon," Seira explains. "Dragons are very cool." She chants a few words before tapping the boy squarely on the forehead. "This is like a test," Seira says, and points towards a corner of the room behind her desk. "Do you know what you're supposed to do?"
[21:57] <Kotono> "...No," he says, shaking his head as he vanishes from view.
06[22:02] * Seira taps the side of her face, indicating the eye. "Watch." She runs her finger up her lobe all the way to its point, before touching the temple lightly. "Listen. Learn." And with a conspiratorial smile, she brings her index finger over her lips, remaining silent.
[22:03] <Kotono> There is a moment, then, "OW!" Ragnar whimpers, a thump her. "OWWWIE!"
06[22:05] * Seira looks at him, the words for the spell to see past invisibility passing her lips.
06[22:08] * Seira raises an eyebrow. "You thought I wanted you to read my mind, and made you invisible for that purpose?" she asks him. "Being impulsive like that can get you into a world of hurt, as you've discovered." She crouches next to Raggar. "Can you go on, or do you need to see a healer, now?"
[22:08] <Kotono> Ragnar is kneeling on the floor and holding his head. "I'm okay..." he whimpers, "I need a little time!"
06[22:09] * Seira nods, tapping his head for good measure, as a healing spell is cast to soothe his pains.
[22:09] <Kotono> He perks up at that, "Thanks! But most people don't make me go like that. You're just special and scary like that!"
01[22:10] <Seira> "There will be a time for compliments. For now, just try to remain quiet and think about what I want you to learn here?" Standing up, Seira heads towards the door, calling for Wayne.
[22:12] <Kotono> It takes a few minutes before the old woman peek sin. "I'm sorry, Wayne seems to have skipped off today, we can't find him," she shakes her head, a tsk-tsk of disapproval.
01[22:13] <Seira> "Hmm," Seira muses. "Who would you say is closest to Wayne amongst the students?"
[22:15] <Kotono> "I hear he flirts with Abagail at times," she answers back. "He also nearly got poor Grenseal in trouble."
01[22:16] <Seira> "Please send in Abagail, then," Seira decides, and pauses to briefly refresh the spell on Ragnar before seating herself behind her desk once more.
[22:18] <Kotono> Ragnar stays quiet. Abagail doesn't take long to come. She has fine black hair and wears a red cloak, with a little leaf clasp. She bows deeply, "Oh, Headmistress! It's an honor."
01[22:19] <Seira> "The honor is mine, it seems," Seira responds, inclining her head, "since I am meeting our star pupil."
[22:22] <Kotono> "Indeed," She smiles vastly to Seira, sitting down. "I've heard much of you, of course. How magnificent the stories are!"
01[22:25] <Seira> "Stories rarely compare to the rare thing," Seira muses, gazing at her with a calculating look. "Do you consider yourself the best, without question? Is failure an option for you? Is there an obstacle that cannot be surmounted?" she asks, question following question. "Abagail, when faced with the impossible, what do you do?"
[22:29] <Kotono> "Yes, no, and no." She answers smiling back, "I beat, and at worst, I come back with the tools I need to. Just like the stories I hear of you and Alicia's magic," Tossing her hair back, "I've begun to understand third circle magic, while others struggle with the second circle or the first."
06[22:31] * Seira raises an eyebrow. "I was under the impression that you fully controlled a spell of the third circle. Was I... mislead?"
[22:34] <Kotono> "Oh, of course not. I just know there are far more spells in the third than the few I've learned," She snorts, "I will have them in due time."
01[22:35] <Seira> "Yes. You will." Seira smiles, and reaches for the elaborate dagger sheathed at her belt. She places it on the desk, and slides it over to Abagail, handle first. "Do you know what this is, Abagail?" she asks.
[22:41] <Kotono> "No, not offhand," she answers.
01[22:42] <Seira> "A graduation gift. An erinyes warlock had it, but she was out of luck. It's pretty, isn't it?" Seira slides her hand across the jewels embedded in the dagger's hilt, before withdrawing her hand.
[22:44] <Kotono> "My...!" She looks over the jewelled dagger, marvelling. "It's a lovely weapon. Wait, you mean I've graduated?" she asks, looking to Seira.
01[22:47] <Seira> "From the basic courses? Quite." Seira leans her elbows on the desk, making a rough triangle with them as she looks over its tip at Abagail. "We would naturally support you in your quest for knowledge and higher learning if that is your choice.
01[22:47] <Seira> The library here, magical section included, won't lose to any other, even if they belong to royals. And we do have some unique artifacts available for study." She pauses briefly. "However, I believe that what you really want from life is the practical, to test your skills in real world situations."
[22:56] <Kotono> "Mmmm." She leans back in  her chair, "Let me think about it a little bit. I've been so lost in my studies that I haven't decided what I'd do next."
01[22:59] <Seira> "The winter break is the perfect time for that," Seira tells her, mirroring her posture. "Abagail, with your skills it would not be difficult for you to fit in either the Guard or the civillian society. However, if you really want to surpass the impossible, the best way to do that is staring you in the face quite literally.
01[22:59] <Seira> This offer would remain open to you until your formal graduation, so consider it carefully."

[Corwin]

[19:46] <Kotono> <Seira> The library here, magical section included, won't lose to any other, even if they belong to royals. And we do have some unique artifacts available for study." She pauses briefly. "However, I believe that what you really want from life is the practical, to test your skills in real world situations."
[19:46] <Kotono> > "Mmmm." She leans back in  her chair, "Let me think about it a little bit. I've been so lost in my studies that I haven't decided what I'd do next."
[19:46] <Kotono> <Seira> "The winter break is the perfect time for that," Seira tells her, mirroring her posture. "Abagail, with your skills it would not be difficult for you to fit in either the Guard or the civillian society. However, if you really want to surpass the impossible, the best way to do that is staring you in the face quite literally.
[19:46] <Kotono> <Seira> This offer would remain open to you until your formal graduation, so consider it carefully."
[19:53] <Kotono> "Mmm..." She leans back, idly rubbing her head. "I do think I'll need to think about this. The offer is fascinating."
06[19:55] * Seira keeps on leaning comfortably back in her chair, letting Abagail know that she's done with the interview, but remains available for any questions the girl might have to her.
[19:57] <Kotono> AFter perhaps a few moments, Abagail rises, "It was an honor," she inclines her head, before heading out.
01[19:59] <Seira> "Oh, yes," Seira calls over to her as she's about to leave. "Would you, by any chance, know where Wayne has gone to?"
[20:02] <Kotono> "Wayne?" Abagail blushes fiercely, turning her back. "Hmph! I couldn't know or care less where that wastrel has taken himself!"
01[20:03] <Seira> "There must be an interesting story behind this," Seira comments. "Tell it to me some day."
[20:04] <Kotono> "Hmph..." Abagail departs, still blushing like an apple. After a few moments, you get two others. One is a man in a surcoat and with neat hair. The woman with him is distant, pale and with closed eyes. "Ma'am," Grenseal reports. "You wanted to see us?"
01[20:05] <Seira> "That's right," Seira agrees. "Most of the interviews I'm conducting are one-on-one, but would you mind an exception to that, here?"
[20:09] <Kotono> "It's okay..." Jillia breathes out, sitting down with her head bowed.
06[20:11] * Seira claps her hands once. "Alright then. I'll cut straight to the chase. You two are drawn towards a certain temple to Helm? So much that it's difficult to concentrate on the more mundane matters, at times?"
[20:11] <Kotono> Jillia colors, looking up with opened eyes. Her eyes are ever so slightly flecked with white. "You know of it?" she asks, her voice rising.
01[20:13] <Seira> "Don't take this as bragging, but I'm directly responsible for what it has become," she tells the two. "In response, I've always been welcome there. The meeting here is merely to determine how badly you two would like to visit it."
[20:14] <Kotono> "I've been dreaming of it lately - of a temple of mist." Grenseal shakes his head, "I see it all the time, except when I look to the night sky."
06[20:17] * Seira nods as she listens. "I suppose it's the same for you?" she asks Jillia, before following up with another question. "And once you're there? What, then?"
[20:19] <Kotono> "I'd love to visit it," Jillia says with a strength of voice that overshadows her body. "I don't know, but it feels right to."
01[20:21] <Seira> "We'll go tomorrow, then, the three of us," Seira decides, glancing at Grenseal for confirmation. "But I have to warn you two. There is... a presence. It can affect your minds. You must realize that as you head inside, and not let it rule over you. Spending the rest of your lives in a blissful catatonic state is not what I would like to see happen."
[20:23] <Kotono> Grenseal nods briefly to that look. "How strong is it?"
01[20:26] <Seira> "Enough to sway a paladin briefly." Seira frowns. "Don't take this lightly. This is a test, an important event for you to prove your minds are superior to outside intervention. Don't make me regret the faith I have in your both."
[20:29] <Kotono> Jillia nods once, "We won't fail," she says, "I know that much."
01[20:31] <Seira> "We'll be staying with some very nice if zealous folk overnight before heading back here, so take what you think you'll need with you," Seira informs the two. "And now that we've covered the issue I meant to bring up, was there anything either of you wished to speak to me about?"
03[20:34] * Ebiris (WinNT@user-5af07427.wfd102.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
03[20:34] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Ebiris Ebiris
[20:40] <Kotono> "That's everything," Grenseal says in a slight daze, "You really helped set that up?"
06[20:41] * Seira shrugs. "We didn't know what door we opened at the time, but it seemed like the right choice to make. Nothing thus far made me doubt it."
03[20:46] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[20:46] <Kotono> "I see..." Jillia murmurs, "Oh Helm...yes, we'll go tomorrow. Thank you."
[20:47] <Kotono> Grenseal stands, offering his hand to Jillia. "There's much for us to still do to prepare then. We'll see you then, Headmaster."
01[20:47] <Seira> "Grenseal, would you mind waiting a moment?" Seira requests, standing up herself.
[20:49] <Kotono> Jillia departs, but Grenseal lingers. "Yes?" he asks, shifting back and forth.
06[20:49] * Seira approaches him. "Two things. Would you know where Wayne has gone off to?"
[20:51] <Kotono> "I may have an idea," his expression screws into a look of resignation. "He's skipped off again today?"
01[20:52] <Seira> "Why does he stay here?" Seira asks curiously.
[20:55] <Kotono> "You know, I asked him that myself," Grenseal scowls now, going back to sitting. "He has magic enough. He barely studies but he keeps up. Anyway, for what it's worth, he said it's because he wants to be."
01[20:57] <Seira> "To be a real mage?" Seira nods to herself, a thoughtful expression coming over her face. "Alright. You said you had an idea of where he was?"
[21:00] <Kotono> "Yes. There's a farm a few miles down the road. Outside of it is an orchard. He's made friends with the farmer there and gets free fruit and a place to relax in exchange for arranging a few helpful spells."
06[21:01] * Seira nods. "How enterprising of our Wayne. Alright."
[21:01] <Kotono> "Is that all, Headmaster?" Grenseal asks then.
01[21:02] <Seira> "Ah, I did say there were two matters I wanted to discuss," Seira comments. "You are aware that Jillia is married, correct?"
[21:03] <Kotono> Grenseal looks Seira in the eye, unblinking, "I know."
01[21:05] <Seira> "Just checking!" She pats him on the shoulder. "I'll see you tomorrow morning for the trip."
[21:08] <Kotono> Grenseal nods and exits the room. It takes a few minutes for Elby to arrive after this, wearing well worn overalls as he sits down. "Yes'm?"
[21:11] <Kotono> OOOC - Strike.
[21:11] <Kotono> Grenseal nods and exits the room, giving Seira a bit of time alone.
06[21:12] * Seira request her assistant to hold on the interviews, before closing the door and gesturing at the armchair facing her desk. "Now is the time to see what you've learned," she tells Ragnar, waiting for him to take a seat.
[21:15] <Kotono> Ragnar goes and does just that. "Seira?"
01[21:16] <Seira> "Yes?" She takes a seat opposite him, waiting calmly.
[21:18] <Kotono> "Grenseal was thinking about strange foggy things," he supplies, "And then Jillia at the very end."
01[21:18] <Seira> "In what way?" Seira asks curiously.
[21:19] <Kotono> "Just of her face." Scratching at his nose, "That was it."
06[21:20] * Seira nods. "And what of Jillia and Abagail?"
[21:22] <Kotono> "Abagail was thinking of money and...uh..." he scratches his head, "What's the grown up word...positio-no...uh...uh...status! That's it! Like how a duke's important, right?"
01[21:23] <Seira> "To some," Seira agrees, waving him to continue.
[21:27] <Kotono> "Jillia was thinking of Helm and those books she reads," Ragnar finishes.
06[21:29] * Seira snorts. "Okay. When you read their surface thoughts, were you able to feel any particular attachment to any of them on their side? When Abagail was asking for time to think, was her decision already made? When Grenseal answered my last question, did he feel upset to you?"
[21:34] <Kotono> "Grenseal thought of Jillia like that. Attached, isn't that the word?" Ragnar asks.
06[21:35] * Seira nods once more. "Merely reading people's thoughts is not enough. You have to study them, and get any extra information that would prove useful later, even if you don't see how it would, at the time."
[21:37] <Kotono> "Okay," he agrees to that, "I'll try that the next few days and see how I do at it!"
01[21:38] <Seira> "Now, let's cover the true point of the lesson -- or test, we could say," Seira continues. "You went unseen, and read their thoughts while I naturally drew their attention to myself and evoked certain thought patterns in them. A proper setup is quite important to success, and so is preparation. Do you understand what I'm getting at, here?"
[21:39] <Kotono> "...oh!" Ragnar blinks, "Is that like when the teacher has us set something up so that another thing happens...like a chain reaction, isn't that the word?"
01[21:41] <Seira> "That's part of it," Seira comments, nodding yet again. "It's also important to observe the situation you are in, and the tools at your disposal. Also... just because someone isn't thinking of something interesting doesn't mean you can't get to those thoughts. All it often takes is a harmless nudge in the right direction, delivered casually in conversation." (more)
01[21:43] <Seira> Pausing, Seira withdraws a scroll from a pouch at her belt. "Now, I've gotten reports that you have been getting caught far too often while reading minds, and you've admitted as much to me yourself. Please remember that not getting caught is quite important, if you're about to break the rules."
01[21:43] <Seira> She hands the scroll to him, continuing, "This would allow you to become invisible once, if you really need it. I would be upset if you wasted it pointlessly, though."
[21:49] <Kotono> Ragnar smiles brightly, "Thanks!" he tucks the scroll away, "I won't get caught them, I promise!"
01[21:52] <Seira> "Good luck!" Seira wishes him. "The rest of the spells will come in time, so just learn to use what you have right now to the best of your ability! And don't embarrass people pointlessly, though I don't think I need to tell you that."
[21:53] <Kotono> "I promise!" Ragnar smiles, "Yeah, embarrassing people...being stuffed in a closet all day isn't fun!" Ragnar shivers.
01[21:55] <Seira> "Show me what you've learned next time I visit, and I'll teach you how to get out of tough spots like that," Seira promises with a conspiratorial smile.
[21:56] <Kotono> Ragnar nods and exits the room. It takes a few minutes for Elby to arrive after this, wearing well worn overalls as he sits down. "Yes'm?"
01[21:57] <Seira> "If I were mean and asked if you knew what this was about, how would you answer?" Seira asks curiously, and her smile is disarming, right then.
Session Close: Thu Apr 10 22:06:21 2008

Session Start: Thu Apr 10 22:06:21 2008
Session Ident: #dunes
02[22:06] * Disconnected
[22:06] 12Performing System Backup...
02[22:06] * Attempting to rejoin channel #dunes
03[22:06] * Rejoined channel #dunes
03[22:06] * Topic is 'Dogai=Seira>Alicia'
03[22:06] * Set by Infinite_Ko_Loop on Sat Apr 05 23:14:29
03[22:06] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Seira
[22:06] <Kotono> "I reckon that means you want me to figure it out another way, like by waving my hands," Elby raises an eyebrow, "And that you want to see me getting my hands dirty?"
01[22:10] <Seira> "Answering with a question of your own? I see." Seira picks up a folder from her desk, writing something down. "Foregoing evocation was a very bright choice for you. The sheer visual effect of fireballs aside, the school is weaker than the others, if they're wielded properly."
01[22:15] <Seira> "I have a challenge for you," Seira tells Elby. "It is my wish to pair you off with another student, and have you help them get a stronger grasp on their talents. In effect, it would add to your workload, and your goal would be to succeed where our conventional teachers haven't had much success to date."
[22:22] <Kotono> Nodding along, "Sure. Which one?" he asks, "Some more work never killed anyone."
01[22:25] <Seira> "Ren," Seira responds. "Abjuration is very good, but forcing the issue seems like the wrong approach to me. Birds or whatever might throw their young off a cliff to teach them to fly but we're not that desperate. Or animals." She shrugs. "In any case, it will come in time. But for now, I fear his talent at divination is getting neglected.
01[22:25] <Seira> Also, perhaps you might be able to spot what exactly is blocking him from using his powers in anything but an instinctive fashion."
[22:26] <Kotono> "Aye, aye," her rubs his chin. "I can give him a toss at that."
01[22:28] <Seira> "That's the spirit!" Seira agrees. "Well, with that out of the way, is there anything you would like to discuss? Something you'd like to bring up yourself, perhaps?"
[22:31] <Kotono> "Not really," he wipes at his head, "I like what I'm doing now. It's good hard work and it's useful."
06[22:34] * Seira nods. "I happen to agree. Would you wait outside until I've talked to Ren?"
[22:37] <Kotono> "Sure," he stands up, dusting off his overalls. OOC - Go on to Ren then?
01[22:37] <Seira> OOC: Yep
[22:42] <Kotono> There's a decent pause before Ren enters. He's a bulky man, rubbing his head as he sits down. "Headmistress?"
01[22:44] <Seira> "Hello, Ren," Seira welcomes him with. "I've decided to alter the focus of your studies a bit, after reviewing your progress. Do you have any comments, suggestions or requests on the matter, before we proceed?"
[22:48] <Kotono> "Well, y'see, I've been trying. But it's like trying to squeeze water from a rock. Ntohing happens." He shrugs, "It happens when it wants to."
01[22:52] <Seira> "Maybe we can coax the power out in another way. I've talked to Elby about working together with you, as your talents overlap in certain areas. Maybe Elby would have some insight that others lack at the moment, or you could gain a better understanding of the way these powers work from such an arrangement."
[22:57] <Kotono> "Right," he nods, "Do you think he'll see the future for it or something, ma'am?
[22:57] <Kotono> "
01[22:58] <Seira> "That's a possibility," Seira agrees. "But only one of them. Observe Elby, and try not to push yourself. We should try it this way for a while."
[23:02] <Kotono> A nod, "Sure thing. I wanna succeed, I wanna know how to do this. It's strange."
01[23:03] <Seira> "I guarantee success," Seira says firmly. "Anyone can learn magic in some form. There is only a matter of wanting to improve. As long as that exists, the entirety of my commitment would be backing those people up."
[23:04] <Kotono> "Okay," He nods, "I'llt ry my bed, Headmaster." He stands up at that, "I know I can do this."
01[23:05] <Seira> "We'll review your progress again in a few months, to see the effects of this new approach," Seira tells Ren. "This is hardly the only idea I have to try."
[23:11] <Kotono> "Alright," he agrees again, "...I'll succeed. I know I can and I don't want to go back to the mines."
06[23:12] * Seira smiles genuinely at such dedication.

[Corwin]

01[17:29] <Seira> [23:03] <Seira> "I guarantee success," Seira says firmly. "Anyone can learn magic in some form. There is only a matter of wanting to improve. As long as that exists, the entirety of my commitment would be backing those people up."
01[17:29] <Seira> [23:04] <Kotono> "Okay," He nods, "I'llt ry my bed, Headmaster." He stands up at that, "I know I can do this."
01[17:29] <Seira> [23:05] <Seira> "We'll review your progress again in a few months, to see the effects of this new approach," Seira tells Ren. "This is hardly the only idea I have to try."
01[17:29] <Seira> [23:11] <Kotono> "Alright," he agrees again, "...I'll succeed. I know I can and I don't want to go back to the mines."
01[17:29] <Seira> [23:12] * Seira smiles genuinely at such dedication.
[17:29] #terrorofdunes You need voice (+v) (#terrorofdunes)
[17:29] #terrorofdunes You need voice (+v) (#terrorofdunes)
[17:29] #terrorofdunes You need voice (+v) (#terrorofdunes)
[17:29] #terrorofdunes You need voice (+v) (#terrorofdunes)
[17:29] #terrorofdunes You need voice (+v) (#terrorofdunes)
03[17:30] * Kowork sets mode: +ooo Alicia Demedais Seira
03[17:30] * Kowork is now known as Kotono
01[17:30] <Seira> [23:03] <Seira> "I guarantee success," Seira says firmly. "Anyone can learn magic in some form. There is only a matter of wanting to improve. As long as that exists, the entirety of my commitment would be backing those people up."
01[17:30] <Seira> [23:04] <Kotono> "Okay," He nods, "I'llt ry my bed, Headmaster." He stands up at that, "I know I can do this."
01[17:30] <Seira> [23:05] <Seira> "We'll review your progress again in a few months, to see the effects of this new approach," Seira tells Ren. "This is hardly the only idea I have to try."
01[17:30] <Seira> [23:11] <Kotono> "Alright," he agrees again, "...I'll succeed. I know I can and I don't want to go back to the mines."
01[17:30] <Seira> [23:12] * Seira smiles genuinely at such dedication.
[17:36] <Kotono> "I will," Ren agrees quietly.
06[17:38] * Seira walks Ren to the reception area, where she intends to direct him to Elby, so that they could make plans towards their study sessions.
[17:41] <Kotono> OOC: Seira, what are the rest of your plans?
01[17:42] <Seira> OOC: See the rest of them, then go find the slacker

[Corwin]

[20:46] <Tiny_Ko_Army> ---
[20:48] <Tiny_Ko_Army>  After finishing with the students, Seira heads to the farm mentioned. On the outskirts is a pleasant fruit orchard. It's in a down season, being winter, though it's still secluded and very quiet. As you look inside, you can glimpse a person sitting against a tree within, gaze skyward.
06[20:50] * Seira tosses a copper coin at him, approaching. "That's for your thoughts," she clarifies. "Would you like another?"
[20:51] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Wayne catches it with an easy motion, his hair long and bangs covering his eyes. "Why not? I could use some pocket change.
[20:51] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "
06[20:53] * Seira throws a second coin over. "I sincerely doubt that," she comments, coming to a comfortable rest a few paces from him. "In fact, the side of me that worships Waukeen would like to congratulate you on taking the initiative and making a profitable, mutually-benefitial agreement with the farmer, here. And yet, I can't really allow myself to be happy at the news.
01[20:53] <Seira> I wonder if you'd be able to tell me why?"
03[20:53] * Ebiris (WinNT@user-544671f0.lns4-c12.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
03[20:53] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Ebiris Ebiris
[20:55] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Aaaah..." he stretches out, pocketing the two coins in a tattered pair of trousers. "'cause you're not getting what you hoped for?"
03[20:56] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
01[20:57] <Seira> "I always get what I want," Seira insists firmly. "Draw whichever conclusions from this that you wish." She shakes her head. "No, what upsets me is how someone clearly smart enough to seize an opportunity where he sees one happens to be letting it slip. I would like to hear why, because I don't really like mysteries."
[21:03] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Aaah. It must be my lucky day." Wayne glances up at Seira with a disinterested smile, "After all, getting you out here is really fortutious. Who can say that they get a half dragon's attention so easily?" With a smooth movement he's standing up, brushing his bangs awayf rom his eyes. "All you need to know is to leave me be."
01[21:05] <Seira> "This is your withdrawal notice, then?" Seira asks, raising an eyebrow.
[21:08] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Do you want it o be?" he asks back, bangs hidinghis eyes and falling back into place. With a light shrug, "Aaah, I'll be fine either way. I can feel it burning in my veins now - the magic, that is. I do wonder what it was that sparked it in my bloodline...but I suppose it hardly matters."
01[21:11] <Seira> "The seals on this world collapsing, most likely," Seira supplies helpfully. "In any case, my goal is to teach people control so that they don't hurt themselves or others by accident, and to let anyone interested in achieving more than that the opportunity. The former has been accomplished with you. The latter depends entirely on you, as it happens."
01[21:11] <Seira> She inclines her head at Wayne, before starting to slowly walk back. "Good day."
[21:14] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Heh..." Wayne chuckles, "See ya then." He goes back to sitting.
[21:21] <Tiny_Ko_Army> The rest of the day passes without incident. The next morning is a rainy one, as Seira gathers Grenseal and Jillia in her office. They look on at her, waiting.
01[21:22] <Seira> "I won't insult you by asking if you're prepared with the right spells," Seira tells them, extending her hands to the pair. "I'll aim to get us next to the temple's entrance."
[21:25] <Tiny_Ko_Army> A nod passes from Grenseal, "We have and we're ready."
01[21:25] <Seira> roll 1d100
06[21:25] * Seira activates the ring!
05[21:26] -atarians.dejatoons.net:@#dunes- Alicia invited Hatbot into the channel.
03[21:26] * Hatbot (~Hatbot@cpe-70-112-23-198.austin.res.rr.com) has joined #dunes
03[21:26] * Alicia sets mode: +v Hatbot
01[21:26] <Seira> roll 1d100
06[21:26] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d100 and gets 67."12 [1d100=67]
[21:30] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Woosh! The world twists and vanish-ack! There's a strange sensation, then the three appear. You appear just in front of a deep wall of mist. Ahead of you is nothing but white, the air chilly and the sky gray.
01[21:31] <Seira> "Feel any different?" Seira asks, peering into the mist.
[21:32] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Is...this it?" Jillia asks, drawing a cloak closer around her. The mist is impenetrable, yet it seems to be splitting apart in the center, as if making a path to walk down further into it.
01[21:34] <Seira> "There is more. I did say I'll land us next to the entrance. It's only proper to actually walk inside as we're invited, rather than force the issue." Having said that, she begins heading down the path, making sure to keep her pace slow enough the other two can catch up.
[21:38] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "You're right, I..." Jillia hurries into the mist, Grenseal's face flashing surprise before he follows! Into the mists the three go! The embrace of the chill is long, yet only passing as you see a gate ahead. Two perfectly armored guards stand watch, greatswords ready.
06[21:41] * Seira waves at the guards. "So, the mist," she mentions. "Is it going to engulf the entire world one day?"
[21:44] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Seira of Balmuria..." One of the guards intones, his voice carrying in perfect clarity. "Why do you come to the domain of Uatu?"
[21:44] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Jillia shivers all over, leaning heavily against Grenseal. "This feeling...it's..." she murmurs, "Oh my Lord."
01[21:45] <Seira> "I'm visiting. We're old pals, don't you remember?"
[21:49] <Tiny_Ko_Army> There is apause before the guards part, the gates opening. "Come, Seira. Come...Grenseal and Jillia."
[21:49] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Grenseal stares ahead, licking his lips. "d...Do you feel that? How did I miss this before? It's so obvious."
01[21:50] <Seira> "Thanks!" Seira leads them inside.
[21:53] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "Seira..." Jillia breathes as she slowly walks along, "This place...I..." she shakes her head again.
01[21:54] <Seira> "Yes?"
[21:57] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Jillia stops, kneeling down. "I'm sorry, I need a little time. It's overwhelming."
06[21:58] * Seira shrugs. "Sorry. I think it only speaks to people who like Helm. Maybe. Not that I hate him. We're actually sort of friends. Yes, take your time, I'll just be quiet over here."
[21:59] <Tiny_Ko_Army> Grenseal kneels down, offering Jillia a hand. They're like this for a bit, as...
06[22:01] * Seira doesn't show any outwards signs of change, content to wait for the two to gather their senses.
[22:05] <Tiny_Ko_Army> It takes perhaps five minutes. Jillia rises up again, smoothing her dress. "I'm ready," she says, holding Grenseal's hand as she heads deeper in.
06[22:07] * Seira proceeds happily herself.
[22:11] <Tiny_Ko_Army> To the front door you go - which is already open and cloaked in mist. Th efeeling goes stronger as you enter - into a broad room. Here there are several crystalline, transparent coffins. Each one has a man at rest in them, clad in perfect full armor. Far ahead you can see a crystalline stairway going down, sharp looking and misty. "You've come," A voice says from that stairway, something coming up from it.
01[22:11] <Seira> "I... guess?" Seira chances, looking for the source of the voice.
[22:20] <Tiny_Ko_Army> The man is young, wearing full armor. HIs body is transparent and cloaked in mists, which follow him. "Welcome. What is your business here with Uatu?"
01[22:23] <Seira> "Just wanted to visit, myself. It's been a while, and I wanted to stay in touch while I had some free time." She gestures at the pair of students. "And my friends here receieved an invitation, so it was the perfect opportunity. I'm not sure if the one who extended it was Helm or Uatu, though. Any thoughts, yourself?"
[22:34] <Tiny_Ko_Army> The figure approaches Grenseal and Jillia. His expression is unshowing and kept as he looks to them, "Welcome. You are two that have been gifted and drawn to this place, the realm of Uatu. In his wisdom Helm has bestowed on you a great duty, one that will span eternity."
01[22:36] <Seira> "Hel-lo?" Seira waves at him for good measure. "What's this gift about? What do you mean by eternity? Is this the gift that keeps on giving? And who are you, mister transparent spokesperson?"
[22:42] <Tiny_Ko_Army> "I am the head of this place, the one whom Helm has tasked with protecting Uatu. His touch is on these two, for they are destined to join me one day to ensure that Uatu is not harmed, for such would be disaster unbridled." He speaks to Seira, "A ravage akin to the worst catastrophe that must never be allowed."
01[22:43] <Seira> "Huh. Last time it was a very nice old priest that was the head of this place. I wonder what happened to him?" As she speaks, Seira glances at Grenseal and Jillia. "Sounds like a worthy cause, don't you think?"
[22:46] <Tiny_Ko_Army> With a growing smile, "I am him," he says with a bit of warmth, "Such is how I was in my youth. My body rests here, so there is no need for the apperence of great age."
01[22:48] <Seira> "Huh. That's new. Are you, like, a ghost now?" Seira tilts her head. "And come to think of it, shouldn't you be welcoming me back more warmly, then? I thought you liked me! And we had nice chats a few times when I was here. Hey, I actually found my old man, too! Anyway, I get that this is a very serious mission and that Helm is a very serious deity, but this is a bit much."
[22:52] <Tiny_Ko_Army> As Grenseal and Jillia gawk, "I'm pleased to hear that. My duty has consumed me - the gravity of protecting Uatu is vast." He answers this with a hint of warmth back in his voice, "For I have seen and been shown much since we last met."
01[22:54] <Seira> "Will they be consumed before their time if they join, too?" Seira feels the need to ask for her students. "Since they need to be making an informed decision about all this, after all."

[Corwin]

01[20:16] <Seira> [22:48] <Seira> "Huh. That's new. Are you, like, a ghost now?" Seira tilts her head. "And come to think of it, shouldn't you be welcoming me back more warmly, then? I thought you liked me! And we had nice chats a few times when I was here. Hey, I actually found my old man, too! Anyway, I get that this is a very serious mission and that Helm is a very serious deity, but this is a bit much."
01[20:16] <Seira> [22:52] <Tiny_Ko_Army> As Grenseal and Jillia gawk, "I'm pleased to hear that. My duty has consumed me - the gravity of protecting Uatu is vast." He answers this with a hint of warmth back in his voice, "For I have seen and been shown much since we last met."
01[20:16] <Seira> [22:54] <Seira> "Will they be consumed before their time if they join, too?" Seira feels the need to ask for her students. "Since they need to be making an informed decision about all this, after all."
[20:24] <Kotono> ""When it is their time they will come to lay here." He gestures to the transparent coffins. "As to when - when you feel you have learned enough and are ready."
06[20:29] * Seira wishes she could express the dissonance in feeling content and horrified at the same time. "I see," she says instead. "Some people might like to have their entire lived mapped out like this, all the way to the grave and beyond. I guess." She shrugs for good measure.
01[20:29] <Seira> "Did some Helm-worshipping guy come here recently?" Seira asks then to change the topic, giving the priest Elle's description of the man. "I heard something about him traveling here, I think."
[20:33] <Kotono> Grenseal looks conflicted at listening, shaking his head, "I'm not that old yet," he murmurs defensively, "But...I want to be here, too. Is that because we're supposed to be here?"
[20:33] <Kotono> Jillia smiles a little, "It has to be. This place feels so right."
[20:35] <Kotono> "He did," A solemn nod comes from the head priest. "He felt Helm's calling and accepted it."
01[20:37] <Seira> "See, I know this paladin of Helm, and he's all happy when he comes here... but he always goes away, too. In fact, there's plenty to do to protect Uatu in other places, too," Seira tells Grenseal. "And I doubt the people here would turn you away if you decided to come at some later point."
[20:38] <Kotono> "Demedais," The high priest nods solemnly, "He very recently came. You do not need to stay immediately, for you have only begun to learn. Come when your powers have developed."
[20:42] <Kotono> Jillia nods faintly, leaning against Grenseal with dazzled eyes. "I...see."
01[20:42] <Seira> "So, wanna spend the night here and see how it is?" Seira offers. "Or we could go and say hi to Uatu in person. Is he accepting guests right now?"
[20:52] <Kotono> "If you wish, but do not disturb him lightly. His intellect is uncomprehending in many ways...I shall explain it as we go, if you wish."
01[20:53] <Seira> "I won't bother him over petty stuff like teleporting back or anything. But meeting potential recruits sounds like the done thing, to me."
[20:56] <Kotono> "As you wish," The man begins to walk down the stairs, "Follow."
06[20:57] * Seira walks at his side. "Now that I'm visiting and all, anything you'd like to tell me and through me to the rest of the world? From you, or Uatu himself? Requests, anything?"
[21:00] <Kotono> As the other two follow down the stairs, the images begin. A bombardment of them all around the stairway - from fair paradises to foul pits of flame, to endless gray battlefields and then great sweeping views of perfect clockwork towers larger than a continent. To a great forge deep in a mountain, to a cold, bleak wasteland where only shadowy figures wander. Grenseal and Jillia are fascinated, watching them as they walk. "Demedais bears the r
[21:01] <Kotono> "Demedais bears the relevant information, but in short again?" (More)
[21:02] <Kotono> "Uatu must be hidden and protected. It's power has grown, it's destruction would render a wasteland unto what lies south of the desert. We have been assigned by Helm to ensure that Uatu is not disturbed by mortal men."
01[21:03] <Seira> "Right, then. Less social calls, aid you guys if someone attacks. That's the gist?"
[21:10] <Kotono> The other two are utterly captivated, watching the fleeting images of places far beyond this mortal realm. They say nothing, as, "Uatu is not disturbed lightly. Yet, in it's way, it tries to ape what it saw...simple human kindness." The priests's voice is reflective as you walk down the sharp crystalline stairs. "Should your duty require great travel beyond your ken, Uatu can help. But...bear in mind this is a being that thought manipulating
[21:10] <Kotono>  But...bear in mind this is a being that thought manipulating an entire carnival to come to Balmuria was proper, just to deliver a means to defeat the death it saw."
01[21:11] <Seira> "I actually approved of the carnival, after the fact, and--" Seira stops abruptly. "Wait, death?"
[21:14] <Kotono> "In the past tense, Seira. Someone kind to it died." Thus he begins to walk again, "Uatu...has no sense of proportion and perhaps time. Not as we comprehend them, for it may destroy a city to save a single person in it's favor, should it be left unchecked. Dimensions are nothing but etherial barriers of no consequence to him. This is why we protect it and guard it."
06[21:17] * Seira actually thinks that most people, if they're honest, would admit to having the same bias if the person is someone dear to them. And it would help if the city was filled with their enemies. But getting into a philosophical debate here might be a bad thing. "Right. Any idea if he's about to attempt another fix?"
[21:19] <Kotono> "We do not believe so." The head priests says. Around you images of a bloody battlefield flash - a horrible Balor charges through a crumbling line of Orthons without pausing.
01[21:20] <Seira> "You know how there are times you wish both sides could lose?" Seira asks, gesturing at the scene. "This is a pretty good illustration."
[21:22] <Kotono> The Balor looms over the Orthons by a good twenty feet, crushing them with a single stroke of it's jagged blade of lighting. It lets forth a roar that shakes all the images around, flames wrapping it's body like armor. "The Blood War. I've been many of those images in my patrols of this hall. Zquujaj...is seen often, as are scenes such as this."
01[21:26] <Seira> "Wow, so you could spy on them?" Seira asks the priest. "Have you seen Agares? He's some kind of duke in Stygia. Oh, and 'M', whomever he is. Some rival devil, I know I'll find out who that is if I relax and think it over one day, but even on vacation I'll probably be too busy for that."
[21:27] <Kotono> "I don't know if there's any way to control them, no." Gesturing at the images, as Grenseal and Jillia stay spellbound, "What is Agares? What does he look like? Perhaps if he is a duke of hell and notable his apperance is memorable?"
01[21:30] <Seira> "I saw him a bit, and Alicia did describe him before," Seira muses thoughtfully, recollecting the image she saw moving towards them through the gate and describing it to the best of her ability.
[21:31] <Kotono> "A giant, gaunt black skeleton?" Recalling that and thinking, "Mmmm. I do recall that once - it was a cold vista, where that figure had dozens of it's underlings about it."
01[21:32] <Seira> "If you happen to see anyone unique or memorable around him... or him dying a painful death, really--" Seira shrugs. "Just let me know?"
[21:38] <Kotono> "As you wish," A slight upward smile on his face, "I have seen Zquujaj. The Blood War...what a horrible thing."
[21:44] <Kotono> The steps continue on. Down and down they go, as if plunging to the very heart of the world. Each step cuts into your feet yet leaves you unhurt, to the bottom. Here lies Uatu - the end of the wall is a small floor that ends in a misty abyss. Floating high and away in that abyss are several walls and barriers of transparent material, Uatu in the center of them all. Two ghostly knights in full armor stand guard near it, unblinking.
01[21:46] <Seira> "Hello!" Seira greets Uatu with a pleasant smile. "It's been a while, hasn't it? I suppose time or distance don't really matter to you so you could see me whenever you wished, but it's different for me so I had to come in person and all that. How have you been?"
[21:54] <Kotono> The crystalline mass in the center seems to glow slightly different at those words. Grenseal and Jillia look on with open mouths, staring ahead.
06[21:55] * Seira opts to wave, trying to return the feeling of contentment she's been enveloped in ever since arriving.
01[22:00] <Seira> "I meant what I said about protecting you if you need it," Seira says, thinking back to the determination she felt when she formally offered her services to Waukeen. "If you need me personally, or I can help somewhere, call on me. You're one of the few I'd help, no questions asked."
[22:02] <Kotono> There is a soft glow from Uatu.
01[22:05] <Seira> "There might have been surprisingly little I wanted to say, but it was best said in person," Seira muses. She nods at Uatu. "If you're looking, then you know we only want to restore the world. You know what we're doing to accomplish that. If you agree with our steps, and have the means to help without sacrificing anyone in the process, please do. I think you'll find us quite receptive."
[22:08] <Kotono> Uatu continues to glow softly. Images swirl around, a dazzling array. A plateau in the desert, purified in holy fires. A windswept wasteland, with a single tiny patch of green and a stairway heading into the scarred, ruined earth.  A burnt farmhouse, the remnants of broken whips lying in the grass.  A shattered noble's house, the dreams of a nation lying in ruin.
06[22:10] * Seira focuses on the wasteland, only in her mind, the grass grows strong, overtaking the vast nothingness, as nature regains its foothold and the ghosts of the past withdraw with a content sigh.
[22:14] <Kotono> Uatu continues to glow, this time brighter.
[22:24] <Kotono> "Are you finding what you wish," the head priest asks.
06[22:27] * Seira ignores him for the time being, thinking of what the celestial book claimed. A shard is needed, one of positive energy, but not so much it would damage the world. But opening a rift to the positive energy plane and closing it is beyond her powers, and she doesn't know where to find an artifact that would achieve the feat.
[22:32] <Kotono> Uatu glows even brighter, so much that you have to look away.
01[22:34] <Seira> If it's effort that needs to be put, Seira has no objections to that. But she does lack leads, she feels, whether as to how to achieve the goal she brought up or how to communicate it any better to Uatu.
[22:35] <Kotono> The head priest squints his eyes, "Uatu is bright. WHat are you doing?"
01[22:37] <Seira> "Talking." And Seira may squint herself, but she tells Uatu, "I know you understand concepts. That you communicate in images. I don't want you to play god, to depend on you for everything. But if you want to help, point me in the right direction? Show me where I must go, who I must meet, what I must do?"
[22:38] <Kotono> OOC: Mmm. Make a diplo check here, I think. +2 modifier.
01[22:39] <Seira> roll 1d20+21
06[22:39] * Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+21 and gets 34."12 [1d20=13]
[22:46] <Kotono> The images swirl around you. Yo usee a golden place, a white place. A place of life, endless horizons of raw energy. It swirls and flows in eternal vitality. Yet deep in this place, you see a single mote of odd color -  A serene blue, like a castle.
06[22:48] * Seira focuses on that mote, no longer squinting.
[22:53] <Kotono> It's a blue castle amid the endless life. All the vital, positive energy crashes against it, yet it remains serene and unaffected in the endless tides.
06[22:55] * Seira thinks of the castle having a prominent doorway, a gate, perhaps, and of it opening to show what lays inside.
[22:58] <Kotono> It is an endless castle. You can see into it, an endless way. There are halls, but they are empty, waiting...
06[23:00] * Seira bites her lower lip. "Alright. Is there anything I should take with me? Anyone?"
[23:00] <Kotono> In the halls you see a small group walking. You can see Alicia and Demedais, notably.
06[23:01] * Seira nods at Uatu. "Thank you. I'll be back before long, without fail."
[23:07] <Kotono> Thus Seira then returns to the school. The day still has hours in it as she goes back to her office, the time hers...OOC - Ball is in your court.
[23:10] <Kotono> OOC: Strike that line.

[Corwin]

[17:19] <Kotono> The next day comes. After resting, Seira returns to the school. It's a pleasant day, studies continuing as...OOC - Ball's in your court, so elaborate what you want to do and/or who you wanna talk to. We'll go from there.
06[17:21] * Seira decides to seek out Grenseal and Jillia. If her information is correct, she'll find them together, anyway.
[17:25] <Kotono> Seira finds them inside of an empty classroom. Jillia is resting in a deep chair, eyes half closed. Grenseal is pacing, occasionally looking out the window. It's rather dim and pleasant in here, like an old room with just a bit of sunlight creeping in.
01[17:28] <Seira> "I hope you found the visit pleasant," Seira comments, stepping inside. "Has it helped you determine your future?"
[17:31] <Kotono> "Ah! Ma'am!" Jillia opens her eyes, blinking away the sand of sleep. "Y-yes, of course. All those feelings over the past months and the magics that are coming feel like they're right and explained now."
[17:32] <Kotono> Grenseal keeps his gaze out the window, "I'm not sure on the exacts yet, but...yeah. I think I have an idea now."
06[17:32] * Seira nods. "I hoped it would be so. If this changes the way you'd like to prepare, or what you'd like to study, we'll make the arrangements."
[17:34] <Kotono> "I'm not sure...I don't meant his as an offense, ma'am," Jillia blushes slightly, "I don't feel that the lessons here will entirely help me. My power comes from the Watcher. I feel as if I need to study somewhere more tied to him."
[17:34] <Kotono> Grenseal looks to Jillia, a shadow passing over his face. "I may stay here for a while longer. There's a lot I'd like to learn." He says this shortly, before turning back to the window.
01[17:36] <Seira> "We've known about the source of your powers for quite some time," Seira agrees. "But it is a fallacy to say that only someone else who gets their powers from Helm can understand or help you along. I can arrange for the temple of Helm to accept you -- any temple of Helm in the land, really.
01[17:36] <Seira> But I don't want you going there thinking that you're obligated, that it's Helm's will, or that you'd learn more there."
[17:37] <Kotono> "Thank you, ma'am," Jillia inclines her head deeply, "I may go to the one in Balmuria, or...I heard Sir Demedais did a pilgrimage to Helm before he came to Balmuria. Perhaps the same would be in order for me. And also..." A blush comes to her face "I have not seen my family in a long time. I should not neglect my vows to them, either." This last is murmured, guilty.
06[17:39] * Seira nods once again, curtly. "Alright. We'll always support you, and I'd like you to know that. I may not be here by the time you decide, but you can easily make your wishes known to me." She looks at them both as she says the last past.
[17:42] <Kotono> Grenseal's gaze stays out the window. "Well, I'm staying here for now," He repeats after a few moments. "This is a good place for me to learn and the chance shouldn't be wasted."
01[17:43] <Seira> "Your wishes may be realized," Seira tells him. "No one can really predict the future, but I know that a strong will can affect a lot. It may just take more time than you expected."
[17:45] <Kotono> "I have a lot of free time now," Grenseal murmurs, "So there's a lot of time to burn on getting better and willful and all oft hat."
[17:46] <Kotono> Jillia looks down at her lap, holding her hands there. "I'm not sure exactly when I'd want to leave. I want to stay  little longer to settle matters and while I wait for word from certain temples."
01[17:50] <Seira> "Alright. Take your time," she repeats. "As you know, I'm only a couple of spells away, so there's no rush to decide."
[17:52] <Kotono> "Thank you," Grenseal says from his window viewing. "...thank you, you've done very much for me."
[17:56] <Kotono> After bidding the two farewell, Seira returns to the headmaster's office. Roget soon appears, sitting down. "Yes?" he says, "You summoned?"
01[17:57] <Seira> "Yes," she agrees, studying him. "It's been some time since we met, back in Balmuria, hasn't it?"
[17:59] <Kotono> He nods his head, "Yeah, it has been," he smiles a bit, "I'm getting the hang of things now. It's hard work, but I feel like I'm finally learning."
01[18:00] <Seira> "And you happen to be oh-so-close to the really useful spells for your line of work," Seira comments. "Quite admirable. I would like to offer you to put what you've learned to test, in a practical setting. The added benefit might well be that this would provide the final push you need in that direction."
[18:03] <Kotono> "You think I'm ready for that?" Roget asks back. "If so, I'll bite on almost anything as long as it isn't shovelling out stables."
06[18:04] * Seira snorts in amusement. "No, it involves forging weapons. And the occasional suit of armor, if you are so motivated. Elle -- Countess Stronger -- is well-versed in their making, and could offer you guidance there, if you accepted."
[18:14] <Kotono> "You mean magical things like that. I'll go for it," Roget says quickly. "When would I start?"
01[18:14] <Seira> "Over the break," she responds. "We'll see how things go afterwards."
[18:16] <Kotono> "Accepted," he offers his hand out to Seira.
06[18:17] * Seira takes it, shaking it firmly. "Good luck."
[18:39] <Kotono> The hand is shaken, Roget going off to study more. Not long after this, another enters. A teenage woman, bowing her head to Seira. "Ma'am," she says with respect.
01[18:42] <Seira> "Hey." Seira gives her a smile, intending to put her more at ease. "As you've no doubt heard, I'm meeting with all of you. If there is anything you would like to bring up, now would be the best time for that."
[18:47] <Kotono> "...Thanks," she sits, "There is one thing. Ah..." she takes a moment, "How do I say this? Could I ask you to tell the instructors to let me go at my own pace? They're trying to push me ahead so fast, before I really get everything."
01[18:49] <Seira> "It seems we are in agreement," Seira comments, glancing down at the folder detailing Kanara's progress. "I understand the desire to gain valuable skills as part of a solid base, before proceeding onwards. Especially when there is no rush."
[18:55] <Kotono> "Oh good!" Her face lights up as she smiles with relief. "I don't want to argue with them any more, but they're pushing me too fast."
01[18:57] <Seira> "Results are important, but the criteria could, perhaps, be redefined," Seira muses. "What are you studying at the moment?"
[19:01] <Kotono> "Basic wizardry," she answers, "I'm learning Burning Hands right now."
01[19:02] <Seira> "I meant in the way of accompanying skills," Seira elaborates. "Learning where and when to use the spell is sometimes just as important as knowing the spell itself."
[19:04] <Kotono> "I'm studying the planes and magic and spellcraft," she lists off, "I like spellcraft the most, it's fascinating to see how the magic really works.
[19:04] <Kotono> "
01[19:08] <Seira> "And it's a key skill," Seira agrees. "It might help if you studied some history and a few of the older languages," she continues, eyeing Kanara. "Learning about the past and ancient languages go hand in hand, and there is quite a bit of magic to be discovered in the process. If only enough people researched the past, we would be well on our way towards replicating its wonders."
[19:12] <Kotono> "Okay." She nods to that slowly, "I'll look into those. Any in particular I should?"
01[19:15] <Seira> "Oh, I don't know...." Seira examines her nails nonchalantly. "Perhaps... Gnomish?"
[19:19] <Kotono> "Gnomish? That old thing?" She shrugs, "Sure. That reminds me of the fairy tales my Mom told me, though."
06[19:21] * Seira seems amused. "We'll talk again once you've made some progress in that area, then. If you find yourself needing reference material, please pass on a message to me. I will take care of it."
[19:28] <Kotono> Kanara rises and shakes Seira's hand, then gets up. Thereafter, Seira goes to find Abagail. She's at the top of the main tower, hair blown in the wind as she looks down at the school and fields beyond it. She's quiet, gaze sweeping.
01[19:31] <Seira> "The wind here is nice," Seira comments, coming up to Abagail's side.
[19:33] <Kotono> "I suppose it is," she agrees, "It's a good viewpoint to see everyone else hurrying along."
01[19:38] <Seira> "I'm afraid you wouldn't see me leave from here," Seira says with amusement. "I decided to come and talk to you again before leaving. Making a decision such as the one I offered to you at the time -- well, the person I'm looking for would eventually take it, I think, but they would have no reason to share my sense of urgency. That may well be a factor."
01[19:38] <Seira> She leans on the railing, turning to face Abagail fully. "So what if we had a chance to work together, on a relatively risk-free but rewarding mission for the Baronies?"
03[19:39] * Ebiris (WinNT@user-5444661c.lns4-c10.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #evildunes
03[19:39] * ChanServ sets mode: +ao Ebiris Ebiris
03[19:42] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[19:42] <Kotono> "What's the mission?" Abagail asks, raising one of her eyebrows.
01[19:46] <Seira> "We've had reports of monstrous trolls and strange women in leather in the Barbarian Lands nearing the border," Seira tells her. "Some of the reports are dubious in nature. You know that proverb? If you want something done, better do it yourself?" Seira shrugs. "I'm going to go on a reconnaissance mission there,
01[19:46] <Seira> and if there is a dire threat to the Baronies, deal with it to the best of my abilities. And I'm offering you the chance of coming along to test your skills and our synergy."
[19:51] <Kotono> Abagail considers and looks down, "Trolls? Hmmm. They're weak to fire, aren't they? Fire and acid?"
06[19:52] * Seira nods. "And overwhelming force. There are some things even they can't regenerate from in time to matter." Her expression turns serious. "We can't allow monsters to organize on our borders, and if there are humans there as well... we must know, and we'll have to make contact to see if they're friendly or intend to bring us harm."
[19:54] <Kotono> "Mmmm." Abagail seems to consider, listening...
01[19:56] <Seira> "It is also my hope that you'll find your answer to the question I asked you over the course of this expedition."
[19:59] <Kotono> "Hmph. It's not like I'll let a troll get close to me with my magic," she declares, before, "Fine, I think I'll accept that then."
01[20:08] <Seira> "I think this will be fun," Seira comments, sounding satisfied.