Mana Academy (IC) (Open, Fantasy)

[Charlia]

As soon as Madame Bourbon was out of sight, Natalie swallowed her caterpillar form again and skipped cheerfully over to Rabbit, smiling brightly up at him.

"Did you see me?" she chirped eagerly. "Did you? Huh? Did I do good? Did I?"



Himiko, however, abandoned all sense of calm once the French headmistress was gone. Her entire body started shuddering with pent-up fury, her fists clenched at her sides, and she closed her eyes tightly as a shout of rage brewed in her lungs. "That--"

That was the only word in English she said. The rest of it was a torrent of infuriated Japanese, insulting Madame Bourbon's ancestors, her abilities, her intelligence, her sanity. Several suggestions were also made during the girl's venting, rather rude ones that were slightly more graphic forms of 'go jump in a lake'. Nothing obscene, of course--simply rather violent methods of doing away with oneself. The sheer anger with which she said all of it was enough to demonstrate to everyone in the room, whether they spoke Japanese or not, that she was beyond 'mad'.

Then she formed an enormous ball of ice and immediately threw it at the wall, where it shattered and shot shards of ice everywhere--only Himiko's timely intervention kept the shards from hitting anyone. Except for the few that shot towards herself, which she only diverted enough to make them cut her instead of outright stabbing her, still shouting.

Taking hasty steps forwards, her teacher put a hand on her shoulder, starting to speak. "Akuma-san, calm--"

She stopped as soon as Himiko's hate-filled eyes turned upon her.

[Finsternia]

House Abendroth

Aloysus is currently grasping Mercillia's shaking arm, preventing her from storming the place. Mercillia is silently struggling, her green eyes staring on the marble floor as she listened for the shouting and the fighting going on around her. "LET ME GO ALOYSUS!"

Mercillia pushed him away and strode towards the hysterical headmistress, every living vegetation in the room dying and rotting with her every step. Vines covered with dangerous hooked thorns slowly snaked across her arms and each finger was tipped with talon like thorns. "ENOUGH OF THIS NONSENSE!" She slapped Bourbon across the face, with a force flinging her 5 feet away. Her hand is blood soaked, the crimson liquid bringing forth crimson roses on the marble floor as they splashed upon the white tiles. "I HAVE SEEN ENOUGH PROOF OF THIS MADNESS OF YOURS!" A wall of fire rose between the two women as Aloysus unsheathed the ancestral weapon of House Abendroth, the Sword of Dawn. The blade's covered with golden fire, shining like a star on Earth.

"That is enough, Mercillia. You might kill her." Mercillia turned to him sharply, in a way that might break a neck, and roared at him. "Oh I will. Did you not hear what she said? SHE CALLED MANA ACADEMY AS INHUMANE! SHE BROUGHT THIS PLACE TO SHIT! AND IN EXTENSION, CALLED OUR SON INHUMAN!" Asmodeus padded towards his master and sat still beside him, his mane burning like the sun. "There are better ways to solve this. As for now, we can clearly judge her irredeemable. Calm yourself, Mercillia." The Lady went silent and in a blink of an eye she removed her kimono, revealing a silk white dress underneath and a greatsword strapped across her back. She unsheathed it, runes softly glowing, and it blazed in a white emerald light. The Sword of Twilight, the ancestral sword of House Hajnalka, has been unsheathed. " Make me, Aloysus." Members of House Abendroth and House Hajnalka slowly shifted in the crowd, their hands on their weapons, waiting for the command of their Lord and Lady.

Rabbit himself now teleported behind her, as Madame Bourbon left the room, and he put a hand on her shoulder. "There is no need for that, Lady Abendroth. She is a coward, and your son is well with me. You may sheath her sword. Should anyone need to go after her, I can do so. You rest yourself, as you are a guest," he calmed her, using the same healing magic he had used on Ruta in order to soothe her angered spirits. "...I would let your army go now. She is most likely gone, and she will not come back to fight. If she could not handle Miss Akuma's words, she will be no hard task for you anyway."

House Abendroth

Mercillia came to her senses with a dazed impression with her left hand grasping her temples. "I... Th-thank you, my good sir. If you may please excuse me." She sheathed back her sword and left the hall while trailing with the familiar scent of flowers that she used awhile ago. House Abendroth's butler Matthias was running for her, offering help to his Lady. Dawn's fire was extinguished with a wipe from Aloysus' hand and disappeared under his black robes, sheathed once again. He raised his hand and the members of both houses relaxed. Asmodeus' mane went back to normal and opened his mouth for a yawn. Aloysus walked towards Rabbit to pick up Mercillia's forgotten kimono. The bloody red roses on the floor still bloomed, seeming at the drops of blood. He then turned to Rabbit and nodded. "Thank you for your intervention, sir. You might have prevented a disaster or even a murder. I thank you once again." He gave a sincere bow before leaving the hall, in pursuit of his wife.

[Luminesa]

Rabbit watched everything with both surprise and cheer, as he saw so many people coming to defend him. He was not used to such overwhelming support, and thus he decided to join in, to add to Madame Bourbon's misery. "...Even then...I do not even know why she has accused me of such. Being a man, and a Dark Mana Being? How strange," he added, acting completely nonchalant about the matter. Turning toward Madame Bourbon, he added, "I am not sure where you got this notion. You see, I am actually quite human. Human enough that I can have a human husband." Continuing to act the part, he turned toward John. "Don't I, love?"

John had not been paying much attention, as everything around him was a loud buzz. The taunts toward Madame Bourbon merely continued, until Rabbit said he was a woman and that John was his husband. Turning and staring at him in shock, he was not sure how to respond, until he heard the turn in Rabbit's 'love'. He was urging him to follow through. Deciding to do so, he joined his side and looked at Madame Bourbon, wrapping an arm-awkwardly-around Rabbit's waist as he did so. "Indeed. Must you really sink so low as to attack my wife, in order to get my team ejected from a tournament that you rigged? What do you take the judges for, even? Idiots? You should apologize to her now."

Madame Bourbon now had no words. Steadcaster was laughing at her, Himiko and Natalie were both taunting her, and she had no proof to show that Rabbit was in-fact male. She was truly cornered. Even the Von Kressel boy was stepping up to her. Mercillia herself had attacked her, and she had a long scar right down her cheek. Deciding she needed time to blow-off steam before she was inevitably ejected, she flew out of the ballroom, with a hand over her cheek.

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAND SHE GONE!!! IT'S A HOME-RUN, JIM, AND PAPI HIT IT OUT OF THE PARK! OH MY GOODNESS!!!" Katsuko shouted, laughing as she did so. The French Headmistress's humiliation was now complete.

As she rushed out, Rabbit smiled at John and whispered, "Thank you."

Henry Von Kressel

Letting out a long, relieved sigh, Henry was clearly letting out steam with each breath he let out. Undoubtedly, he wasn't used to such situations. Immediately, he ran his hand through his hair, as he looked around, trying to understand what was happening in the scene. He needed some time to rest.

"Rabbit, I'll... Take a breath. I'll be right back."

With that, Henry left the ballroom with rushed steps, eventually stopping at a nearby corridor. He needed the time to think about happened, to plan accordingly with Bourbon's possible reactions, but his mind was fogged. He couldn't think about nothing. And it was getting worse.

From a nearby door, one of the hotel's employees entered, scared with the scene that was happening. Slightly looking around, he saw the masked person, walking to it with a box and a letter atop it.

"It... Simply appeared at the reception. It was addressed to Mr... Mrs... Rabbit. I think it might be you and... I need to get another job. Really. Goodbye!"

With that, the scared boy ran away, leaving the box in Rabbit's hands. The crest at the letter hinted who was the one that sent it to the masked teacher: The small white dragon that sealed it was the most obvious hint.

Well, I died. It happens to everyone of us. Good luck with Henry, you'll need it. Oh, the box is a surprise for him. I take it that you already said it to him. Knew you couldn't resist the secret. That's the spirit!

Not making it any longer. Bye, have a nice life doing whatever you like to do in your free time. Other than walking around masked and hiding your gender.

Vladimir Von Kressel.

"Thank you, dear," he told the messenger, a little surprised to be getting a present of some sort. As he read the letter, however, he saw that the box was no mere present. Vladimir Von Kressel was dead, and he was entrusting something to the masked man. Seeing Henry running away, as well, he silently followed him out the room, after he finished with Mercillia. Eventually he caught him in another corridor, and his heart became heavy as he saw how nervous Henry looked. Seeing that he was quite shaken, he put the box down and decided to take his time before letting him know the news. He then walked a couple of feet toward Henry and put an arm around his shoulders. "...Are you alright?..." he asked him softly. He knew Henry was not the best at handling his emotions, and he might need support.

[Kingdom of Irhk]

Henry Von Kressel

Letting out a long, relieved sigh, Henry was clearly letting out steam with each breath he let out. Undoubtedly, he wasn't used to such situations. Immediately, he ran his hand through his hair, as he looked around, trying to understand what was happening in the scene. He needed some time to rest.

"Rabbit, I'll... Take a breath. I'll be right back."

With that, Henry left the ballroom with rushed steps, eventually stopping at a nearby corridor. He needed the time to think about happened, to plan accordingly with Bourbon's possible reactions, but his mind was fogged. He couldn't think about nothing. And it was getting worse.

From a nearby door, one of the hotel's employees entered, scared with the scene that was happening. Slightly looking around, he saw the masked person, walking to it with a box and a letter atop it.

"It... Simply appeared at the reception. It was addressed to Mr... Mrs... Rabbit. I think it might be you and... I need to get another job. Really. Goodbye!"

With that, the scared boy ran away, leaving the box in Rabbit's hands. The crest at the letter hinted who was the one that sent it to the masked teacher: The small white dragon that sealed it was the most obvious hint.

Well, I died. It happens to everyone of us. Good luck with Henry, you'll need it. Oh, the box is a surprise for him. I take it that you already said it to him. Knew you couldn't resist the secret. That's the spirit!

Not making it any longer. Bye, have a nice life doing whatever you like to do in your free time. Other than walking around masked and hiding your gender.

Vladimir Von Kressel.

"Thank you, dear," he told the messenger, a little surprised to be getting a present of some sort. As he read the letter, however, he saw that the box was no mere present. Vladimir Von Kressel was dead, and he was entrusting something to the masked man. Seeing Henry running away, as well, he silently followed him out the room, after he finished with Mercillia. Eventually he caught him in another corridor, and his heart became heavy as he saw how nervous Henry looked. Seeing that he was quite shaken, he put the box down and decided to take his time before letting him know the news. He then walked a couple of feet toward Henry and put an arm around his shoulders. "...Are you alright?..." he asked him softly. He knew Henry was not the best at handling his emotions, and he might need support.

Henry Von Kressel

Recomposing himself with deep, calm breaths, Henry finally noticed Rabbit's question. The box caught his attention, but he wasn't going to ask about it now.

"Yes, I'm just... A little bit stressed and worried, that's all. Now that Bourbon is going to disappear, it means that she has more freedom to continue with whatever plans she has, and this is my main concern, specially towards Aria... She spoke about her with a certain hatred in the voice, and... I told Bourbon that I'm growing comfortable in these situations of tension. But does one ever gets comfortable, Rabbit? With these confrontations? I'm certain you watched many better men than me at situations that resembled the ones I've mentioned, and did they get used to it?"

[Luminesa]

"Thank you, dear," he told the messenger, a little surprised to be getting a present of some sort. As he read the letter, however, he saw that the box was no mere present. Vladimir Von Kressel was dead, and he was entrusting something to the masked man. Seeing Henry running away, as well, he silently followed him out the room, after he finished with Mercillia. Eventually he caught him in another corridor, and his heart became heavy as he saw how nervous Henry looked. Seeing that he was quite shaken, he put the box down and decided to take his time before letting him know the news. He then walked a couple of feet toward Henry and put an arm around his shoulders. "...Are you alright?..." he asked him softly. He knew Henry was not the best at handling his emotions, and he might need support.

Henry Von Kressel

Recomposing himself with deep, calm breaths, Henry finally noticed Rabbit's question. The box caught his attention, but he wasn't going to ask about it now.

"Yes, I'm just... A little bit stressed and worried, that's all. Now that Bourbon is going to disappear, it means that she has more freedom to continue with whatever plans she has, and this is my main concern, specially towards Aria... She spoke about her with a certain hatred in the voice, and... I told Bourbon that I'm growing comfortable in these situations of tension. But does one ever gets comfortable, Rabbit? With these confrontations? I'm certain you watched many better men than me at situations that resembled the ones I've mentioned, and did they get used to it?"

"...Yes...I am used to it. I have been confronted and attacked quite a lot in my lifetime. You merely have to grow with it and learn how to defend yourself. All will be well in time," he told him kindly, "and you will be used to it soon as well. Learning how to handle it will come in time. You were calm and composed, and those are the only things you truly need to win an argument. As for her feelings toward Aria, those cannot be helped. The woman is a fool and if she shows her face again I'll make sure mine is the last one she sees. Though I doubt that will happen. Rest yourself, Henry. All will be well in time." He repeated that again, to assure him that he was on the right track. After all, now he was essentially head of the Von Kressel clan, and still only seventeen. He would have to learn rather quickly...

[Kingdom of Irhk]

Henry Von Kressel

Recomposing himself with deep, calm breaths, Henry finally noticed Rabbit's question. The box caught his attention, but he wasn't going to ask about it now.

"Yes, I'm just... A little bit stressed and worried, that's all. Now that Bourbon is going to disappear, it means that she has more freedom to continue with whatever plans she has, and this is my main concern, specially towards Aria... She spoke about her with a certain hatred in the voice, and... I told Bourbon that I'm growing comfortable in these situations of tension. But does one ever gets comfortable, Rabbit? With these confrontations? I'm certain you watched many better men than me at situations that resembled the ones I've mentioned, and did they get used to it?"

"...Yes...I am used to it. I have been confronted and attacked quite a lot in my lifetime. You merely have to grow with it and learn how to defend yourself. All will be well in time," he told him kindly, "and you will be used to it soon as well. Learning how to handle it will come in time. You were calm and composed, and those are the only things you truly need to win an argument. As for her feelings toward Aria, those cannot be helped. The woman is a fool and if she shows her face again I'll make sure mine is the last one she sees. Though I doubt that will happen. Rest yourself, Henry. All will be well in time." He repeated that again, to assure him that he was on the right track. After all, now he was essentially head of the Von Kressel clan, and still only seventeen. He would have to learn rather quickly...

Henry Von Kressel

"Thanks Rabbit. Truly, thanks. I'll try to rest, as this is easily my most stressful passage in France, specially with the amount of trouble we are rounded with. But, I've got to ask... What's that box?"

Henry needed to rest, given the fact since he left Mana, he was worried. First, with Ambrosia. Second, with Mana and Anatoly. Now, Bourbon's threaten was haunting him, and he had to be ready for it when she came.

[Rhomaia]

Madame Bourbon now had no words. Steadcaster was laughing at her, Himiko and Natalie were both taunting her, and she had no proof to show that Rabbit was in-fact male. She was truly cornered. Even the Von Kressel boy was stepping up to her. Mercillia herself had attacked her, and she had a long scar right down her cheek. Deciding she needed time to blow-off steam before she was inevitably ejected, she flew out of the ballroom, with a hand over her cheek.

Himiko, however, abandoned all sense of calm once the French headmistress was gone. Her entire body started shuddering with pent-up fury, her fists clenched at her sides, and she closed her eyes tightly as a shout of rage brewed in her lungs. "That--"

Then she formed an enormous ball of ice and immediately threw it at the wall, where it shattered and shot shards of ice everywhere--only Himiko's timely intervention kept the shards from hitting anyone. Except for the few that shot towards herself, which she only diverted enough to make them cut her instead of outright stabbing her, still shouting.

Taking hasty steps forwards, her teacher put a hand on her shoulder, starting to speak. "Akuma-san, calm--"

She stopped as soon as Himiko's hate-filled eyes turned upon her.

Aria

The next sequence of events was even louder and more chaotic than Bourbon had been at first, with a string of eloquent words from Henry, to a most threatening and creepy (yet still somehow adorable) display by Natalie to an outright attack by Allistor's own mother, but far more pleasant in outcome. Instead of standing and continuing to lash out at the increasingly discontent crowd, she had run away to one of her chambers with a bloody cheek, thanks in no small part to Mercillia's rather violent reaction. Despite it all, even Aria herself had been able to take a stand, with Himiko's support, no less.

Aria let out a deep breath, glad to see that Bourbon was finally a non-issue for once. Now that she was gone, the tournament would be able to go off without a hitch, and everyone might actually find enjoyment in the festivities while the tyrannical, bipolar Headmistress was in absence. But there was still a person that Aria wanted to talk to before it all went back on track.

Himiko. The Japanese girl that she had only been introduced to yesterday, and the only foreign student (besides Lorian) that she knew by name. The same one who had approached her and asked how she had been able to stay strong through the ordeals she faced.

Looking around the room for a few moments and taking in the relative quiet, the atmosphere was soon shattered by manic yelling in a foreign language-one that Aria vaguely recognized as Japanese-and by the loud crashing of ice against one of the walls, sending countless pieces of razor sharp crystal flying in every direction. From the voice alone, there was no mistaking who it was.

Making her way through the room from the center, she arrived on the scene just in time to observe the end of the ramblings and to see the the ice-ball splinter into fragments and hit Himiko in a number of areas. With her amber eyes wide in concern, she slowly stepped forward, even as the mentor of the Japanese Academy rushed over to the black haired, violet eyed girl.

"Himiko-san...are you alright?" Aria calmly asked, emulating the use of honorifics that Himiko had used when talking to her. And yet, she was not aware of the fury that Himiko was feeling now...

[Luminesa]

"...Yes...I am used to it. I have been confronted and attacked quite a lot in my lifetime. You merely have to grow with it and learn how to defend yourself. All will be well in time," he told him kindly, "and you will be used to it soon as well. Learning how to handle it will come in time. You were calm and composed, and those are the only things you truly need to win an argument. As for her feelings toward Aria, those cannot be helped. The woman is a fool and if she shows her face again I'll make sure mine is the last one she sees. Though I doubt that will happen. Rest yourself, Henry. All will be well in time." He repeated that again, to assure him that he was on the right track. After all, now he was essentially head of the Von Kressel clan, and still only seventeen. He would have to learn rather quickly...

Henry Von Kressel

"Thanks Rabbit. Truly, thanks. I'll try to rest, as this is easily my most stressful passage in France, specially with the amount of trouble we are rounded with. But, I've got to ask... What's that box?"

Henry needed to rest, given the fact since he left Mana, he was worried. First, with Ambrosia. Second, with Mana and Anatoly. Now, Bourbon's threaten was haunting him, and he had to be ready for it when she came.

He asked a lot quicker than he expected. "...Ah...yes...that..." he muttered. Henry was not stupid and would sense immediately if something was off. He slowly walked toward the box, picked it up, and held it out to Henry. "...Your uncle sent this as a gift to you. You see, Henry, Vladimir...has passed," he answered softly. He knew the news would hit Henry hard, and he could only be there with him as the information came to him. It seemed the boy indeed could not get any sort of rest. Now his entire family would be eyeing him, like a tower to be torn-down. He would have to remain by his side, and to make sure he remained steady through this hard endeavor.

[Charlia]

Madame Bourbon now had no words. Steadcaster was laughing at her, Himiko and Natalie were both taunting her, and she had no proof to show that Rabbit was in-fact male. She was truly cornered. Even the Von Kressel boy was stepping up to her. Mercillia herself had attacked her, and she had a long scar right down her cheek. Deciding she needed time to blow-off steam before she was inevitably ejected, she flew out of the ballroom, with a hand over her cheek.

Himiko, however, abandoned all sense of calm once the French headmistress was gone. Her entire body started shuddering with pent-up fury, her fists clenched at her sides, and she closed her eyes tightly as a shout of rage brewed in her lungs. "That--"

Then she formed an enormous ball of ice and immediately threw it at the wall, where it shattered and shot shards of ice everywhere--only Himiko's timely intervention kept the shards from hitting anyone. Except for the few that shot towards herself, which she only diverted enough to make them cut her instead of outright stabbing her, still shouting.

Taking hasty steps forwards, her teacher put a hand on her shoulder, starting to speak. "Akuma-san, calm--"

She stopped as soon as Himiko's hate-filled eyes turned upon her.

Aria

The next sequence of events was even louder and more chaotic than Bourbon had been at first, with a string of eloquent words from Henry, to a most threatening and creepy (yet still somehow adorable) display by Natalie to an outright attack by Allistor's own mother, but far more pleasant in outcome. Instead of standing and continuing to lash out at the increasingly discontent crowd, she had run away to one of her chambers with a bloody cheek, thanks in no small part to Mercillia's rather violent reaction. Despite it all, even Aria herself had been able to take a stand, with Himiko's support, no less.

Aria let out a deep breath, glad to see that Bourbon was finally a non-issue for once. Now that she was gone, the tournament would be able to go off without a hitch, and everyone might actually find enjoyment in the festivities while the tyrannical, bipolar Headmistress was in absence. But there was still a person that Aria wanted to talk to before it all went back on track.

Himiko. The Japanese girl that she had only been introduced to yesterday, and the only foreign student (besides Lorian) that she knew by name. The same one who had approached her and asked how she had been able to stay strong through the ordeals she faced.

Looking around the room for a few moments and taking in the relative quiet, the atmosphere was soon shattered by manic yelling in a foreign language-one that Aria vaguely recognized as Japanese-and by the loud crashing of ice against one of the walls, sending countless pieces of razor sharp crystal flying in every direction. From the voice alone, there was no mistaking who it was.

Making her way through the room from the center, she arrived on the scene just in time to observe the end of the ramblings and to see the the ice-ball splinter into fragments and hit Himiko in a number of areas. With her amber eyes wide in concern, she slowly stepped forward, even as the mentor of the Japanese Academy rushed over to the black haired, violet eyed girl.

"Himiko-san...are you alright?" Aria calmly asked, emulating the use of honorifics that Himiko had used when talking to her. And yet, she was not aware of the fury that Himiko was feeling now...

Turning to Aria, Himiko glared at the redhead just as fiercely as she had at her teacher... but then her eyes softened, just a little bit.

"...No," she finally muttered, her voice radiating hate. "No, I am not all right, Aria-san. That... that woman..." Her hands clenched into fists, the pressure so great that her nails cut into her palms. "I am aware that you have more of a right to hate her than anyone here... but still... I despise her... and here you are, perfectly calm... while I... I am acting like my father, who I also despise... And people somehow find it fitting to disparage you..." She managed a smile, even though it, too, was quite angry. "The world makes no sense, does it? No sense at all..."

[Kingdom of Irhk]

Henry Von Kressel

"Thanks Rabbit. Truly, thanks. I'll try to rest, as this is easily my most stressful passage in France, specially with the amount of trouble we are rounded with. But, I've got to ask... What's that box?"

Henry needed to rest, given the fact since he left Mana, he was worried. First, with Ambrosia. Second, with Mana and Anatoly. Now, Bourbon's threaten was haunting him, and he had to be ready for it when she came.

He asked a lot quicker than he expected. "...Ah...yes...that..." he muttered. Henry was not stupid and would sense immediately if something was off. He slowly walked toward the box, picked it up, and held it out to Henry. "...Your uncle sent this as a gift to you. You see, Henry, Vladimir...has passed," he answered softly. He knew the news would hit Henry hard, and he could only be there with him as the information came to him. It seemed the boy indeed could not get any sort of rest. Now his entire family would be eyeing him, like a tower to be torn-down. He would have to remain by his side, and to make sure he remained steady through this hard endeavor.

Henry Von Kressel

"No... Amount of preparation can soften this blow, I guess. But it happened. May Vladimir rest in peace. I guess... I know what's in the box."

Henry picked up the box, slowly opening it. Inside, a black robe, with golden details at the sleeves and at its extremities, had white dragons at the lowest part, which extended to the feet. It was Vladimir's personal robe: A strong message that, even being simple, it was still strong, saying everything that Henry needed to know. He was the one that would inherit the crest, and with that, a whole new set of problems.

With his yellow eyes slightly shining given the tears that started to form. Closing the box and placing it under his arm, he couldn't say anything to Rabbit, simply placing a hand on his shoulder, and leaving the masked professor behind, while walking with his head down until he reached his bedroom.

When the door closed, the mask fell. Henry slowly took off his armor, and laid on the bed, his face red as he cried continuously, yet silently for his recently dead uncle. Just like Vladimir taught him, he cried in privacy, while the image of the strong student remained outside. There were nothing left to do now, and there would be no time to mourn if Bourbon had something planned.

Sitting in his bed, he stared at nothing: Partially from sadness, and partially for relaxation, he simply stood there, a half opened box at his side, Fawkes staring at her owner, and Henry's continuous contemplation of nothing filled the sad scenario of the bedroom, where Henry was alone, just like he felt knowing that there wouldn't be any summer trips with his uncle, or there wouldn't be the continuous noise of the cane hitting the ground. It ended, and Henry felt lonely. In a hotel full of people, and part of them liking him (or at least he presumed it), he felt that there wasn't anyone else in the world now.

And so, the noise faded away. The worries. The origins, everything, and Henry closed his eyes, projecting his mind back to the same old room he lived through most of his life. The sad fortress where he hid himself from the predatory world reproduced with extreme fidelity to reality, now in his mind, reflecting the same feelings he had when he sat with books around him in the darkened room.

But he wasn't a kid anymore. The fluctuation of determination against the pure wish of hiding himself at the darkest place he could find conflicted in his mind as he stared at the room. The amount of stress and anxiety led Henry to a point where he was lost, and he finally laid in his bed, closing his eyes and falling into a sleep who seemed more like he passed out, which wouldn't be a complete lie: Henry simply fell into a heavy sleep that rested him, something he deeply needed, because he didn't know what would expect him when he woke up.

[Rhomaia]

Turning to Aria, Himiko glared at the redhead just as fiercely as she had at her teacher... but then her eyes softened, just a little bit.

"...No," she finally muttered, her voice radiating hate. "No, I am not all right, Aria-san. That... that woman..." Her hands clenched into fists, the pressure so great that her nails cut into her palms. "I am aware that you have more of a right to hate her than anyone here... but still... I despise her... and here you are, perfectly calm... while I... I am acting like my father, who I also despise... And people somehow find it fitting to disparage you..." She managed a smile, even though it, too, was quite angry. "The world makes no sense, does it? No sense at all..."

Aria

Once Himiko turned to face her, Aria could see all of the unbridled wrath in the girl's eyes. All of the hidden, pent up emotions she had been holding in had erupted at this particular moment, resulting in the frigid outburst she had just seen. With all of Bourbon's antics, and perhaps even events that were transpiring before the French Headmistress' blatant display of hatred, Himiko was hurting greatly on the inside.

Though she had been consumed with worry for the first half of the Second Round, Aria had indeed been present during the girl's performance. Watching her put a bullet through an icy representation of herself, and reaching out to a girl that would only melt and fall away from her grasp...If nothing else, she could tell that Himiko was depressed and alone. And hearing her comment about how she was acting like her father suggested that she had been through more than just a few problems at home.

"...This world never has made sense, you're right...It's spiteful, it's inane, it's unpredictable, and it throws every obstacle that it has right in your way...I know just what it feels like, Himiko-san..." Aria said, trying her best to soothe the anger that she heard in the girl's voice. She wanted her to know, more than anything, that she was not alone. If she could do that, then the entire ordeal she had just sat through would be worth it. "...But even when everything in the world was at it's craziest...whenever I didn't know how to move forward, I always had friends to help me find my way. Thanks to them, I'm able to come to terms with it...Even if I do still have quite a ways to go."

Slowly extending a gloved hand to Himiko's in a gesture of support and friendship, Aria gave the violet eyed girl a gentle smile as the room around them began to calm, and slowly resumed it's atmosphere of order and natural harmony. "I know that it may not be much consolation...But I want to help you, just as they did."

[Charlia]

Turning to Aria, Himiko glared at the redhead just as fiercely as she had at her teacher... but then her eyes softened, just a little bit.

"...No," she finally muttered, her voice radiating hate. "No, I am not all right, Aria-san. That... that woman..." Her hands clenched into fists, the pressure so great that her nails cut into her palms. "I am aware that you have more of a right to hate her than anyone here... but still... I despise her... and here you are, perfectly calm... while I... I am acting like my father, who I also despise... And people somehow find it fitting to disparage you..." She managed a smile, even though it, too, was quite angry. "The world makes no sense, does it? No sense at all..."

Aria

Once Himiko turned to face her, Aria could see all of the unbridled wrath in the girl's eyes. All of the hidden, pent up emotions she had been holding in had erupted at this particular moment, resulting in the frigid outburst she had just seen. With all of Bourbon's antics, and perhaps even events that were transpiring before the French Headmistress' blatant display of hatred, Himiko was hurting greatly on the inside.

Though she had been consumed with worry for the first half of the Second Round, Aria had indeed been present during the girl's performance. Watching her put a bullet through an icy representation of herself, and reaching out to a girl that would only melt and fall away from her grasp...If nothing else, she could tell that Himiko was depressed and alone. And hearing her comment about how she was acting like her father suggested that she had been through more than just a few problems at home.

"...This world never has made sense, you're right...It's spiteful, it's inane, it's unpredictable, and it throws every obstacle that it has right in your way...I know just what it feels like, Himiko-san..." Aria said, trying her best to soothe the anger that she heard in the girl's voice. She wanted her to know, more than anything, that she was not alone. If she could do that, then the entire ordeal she had just sat through would be worth it. "...But even when everything in the world was at it's craziest...whenever I didn't know how to move forward, I always had friends to help me find my way. Thanks to them, I'm able to come to terms with it...Even if I do still have quite a ways to go."

Slowly extending a gloved hand to Himiko's in a gesture of support and friendship, Aria gave the violet eyed girl a gentle smile as the room around them began to calm, and slowly resumed it's atmosphere of order and natural harmony. "I know that it may not be much consolation...But I want to help you, just as they did."

Himiko's eyes widened slightly, and she reached out to take Aria's hand, fearfully, as if afraid that the redhead would melt away as her earlier construct had the moment they touched.

But Aria, being a real person and not a soulless ice sculpture, did not melt.

"...Aria-san..." Himiko mumbled, "you're being too kind to me. But... I thank you. You go through so much and you still have so much strength and kindness... I do envy you, I'll admit. But I suppose... if friends are those who help you go through life..." She was hesitant, unsure. "May I... count you as a friend, Aria-san?"



The teacher stood slightly back, and tapped her chin thoughtfully.

[Luminesa]

He asked a lot quicker than he expected. "...Ah...yes...that..." he muttered. Henry was not stupid and would sense immediately if something was off. He slowly walked toward the box, picked it up, and held it out to Henry. "...Your uncle sent this as a gift to you. You see, Henry, Vladimir...has passed," he answered softly. He knew the news would hit Henry hard, and he could only be there with him as the information came to him. It seemed the boy indeed could not get any sort of rest. Now his entire family would be eyeing him, like a tower to be torn-down. He would have to remain by his side, and to make sure he remained steady through this hard endeavor.

Henry Von Kressel

"No... Amount of preparation can soften this blow, I guess. But it happened. May Vladimir rest in peace. I guess... I know what's in the box."

Henry picked up the box, slowly opening it. Inside, a black robe, with golden details at the sleeves and at its extremities, had white dragons at the lowest part, which extended to the feet. It was Vladimir's personal robe: A strong message that, even being simple, it was still strong, saying everything that Henry needed to know. He was the one that would inherit the crest, and with that, a whole new set of problems.

With his yellow eyes slightly shining given the tears that started to form. Closing the box and placing it under his arm, he couldn't say anything to Rabbit, simply placing a hand on his shoulder, and leaving the masked professor behind, while walking with his head down until he reached his bedroom.

When the door closed, the mask fell. Henry slowly took off his armor, and laid on the bed, his face red as he cried continuously, yet silently for his recently dead uncle. Just like Vladimir taught him, he cried in privacy, while the image of the strong student remained outside. There were nothing left to do now, and there would be no time to mourn if Bourbon had something planned.

Sitting in his bed, he stared at nothing: Partially from sadness, and partially for relaxation, he simply stood there, a half opened box at his side, Fawkes staring at her owner, and Henry's continuous contemplation of nothing filled the sad scenario of the bedroom, where Henry was alone, just like he felt knowing that there wouldn't be any summer trips with his uncle, or there wouldn't be the continuous noise of the cane hitting the ground. It ended, and Henry felt lonely. In a hotel full of people, and part of them liking him (or at least he presumed it), he felt that there wasn't anyone else in the world now.

And so, the noise faded away. The worries. The origins, everything, and Henry closed his eyes, projecting his mind back to the same old room he lived through most of his life. The sad fortress where he hid himself from the predatory world reproduced with extreme fidelity to reality, now in his mind, reflecting the same feelings he had when he sat with books around him in the darkened room.

But he wasn't a kid anymore. The fluctuation of determination against the pure wish of hiding himself at the darkest place he could find conflicted in his mind as he stared at the room. The amount of stress and anxiety led Henry to a point where he was lost, and he finally laid in his bed, closing his eyes and falling into a sleep who seemed more like he passed out, which wouldn't be a complete lie: Henry simply fell into a heavy sleep that rested him, something he deeply needed, because he didn't know what would expect him when he woke up.

Rabbit allowed him to sleep, letting him walk down the hallway and into his room in order to clear his head. Realizing he could not do anything else for him, he decided to go back to the ballroom. He knew that when Henry emerged again, they would have plenty to discuss. As a leader of his family, Henry would have to face said family and prove to them that he was worth leading them. They would be fierce, and he would need Rabbit to support him then. In the meantime, he needed his time alone to mourn his beloved uncle. When he got back to the ballroom, he attended to Aria, who was now standing on her own with Himiko. "Are you alright, dear? You did absolutely fantastic a moment ago. I'm sorry Madame Bourbon had to ruin it for you," he apologized.

[Rhomaia]

Himiko's eyes widened slightly, and she reached out to take Aria's hand, fearfully, as if afraid that the redhead would melt away as her earlier construct had the moment they touched.

But Aria, being a real person and not a soulless ice sculpture, did not melt.

"...Aria-san..." Himiko mumbled, "you're being too kind to me. But... I thank you. You go through so much and you still have so much strength and kindness... I do envy you, I'll admit. But I suppose... if friends are those who help you go through life..." She was hesitant, unsure. "May I... count you as a friend, Aria-san?"

The teacher stood slightly back, and tapped her chin thoughtfully.

Aria

"Absolutely." Aria responded, her smile growing wider as Himiko took her hand. Her grip, solid and firm, made it almost seem as if she was uncertain as to whether or not that Aria's hand would still be there for her to hold when she finally reached out to it, and her touch was cold from having held the great sphere of ice just moments before.

Nonetheless, Aria was happy that Himiko had accepted her offer of friendship. That one great step, breaking the barrier and showing that she was both grateful for her support and that she was willing to return the kindness that Himiko showed her. Standing up to Bourbon and validating her as something that could in fact be called 'human' meant the world to Aria, and she could only hope to return the favor.

Rabbit allowed him to sleep, letting him walk down the hallway and into his room in order to clear his head. Realizing he could not do anything else for him, he decided to go back to the ballroom. He knew that when Henry emerged again, they would have plenty to discuss. As a leader of his family, Henry would have to face said family and prove to them that he was worth leading them. They would be fierce, and he would need Rabbit to support him then. In the meantime, he needed his time alone to mourn his beloved uncle. When he got back to the ballroom, he attended to Aria, who was now standing on her own with Himiko. "Are you alright, dear? You did absolutely fantastic a moment ago. I'm sorry Madame Bourbon had to ruin it for you," he apologized.

Aria

When the Rabbit arrived, an even brighter grin lit up Aria's face. Of all the things that he had done for her in this week alone had earned him a fair bit of her admiration, and the switching of gender roles that he had done to confuse Bourbon minutes ago was simply priceless. That mask, once a symbol of enigma and forbidding mystery, was a sight for sore eyes in her mind.

"Thank you, Professor. I couldn't have done it without your teaching." Aria said cheerfully, smiling confidently for perhaps the first time during her entire time at the tournament, "In regards to my condition...Well, I'm not the woman who ran out of the room with a cut on my cheek. That little sight made every moment of her screaming just that much more bearable." she chuckled, shaking her head. It may have sounded cruel and maybe even a little uncharacteristic of her to speak of a person's pain in such a manner...but there was some part of her that made her feel justified in that statement.

[Luminesa]

Himiko's eyes widened slightly, and she reached out to take Aria's hand, fearfully, as if afraid that the redhead would melt away as her earlier construct had the moment they touched.

But Aria, being a real person and not a soulless ice sculpture, did not melt.

"...Aria-san..." Himiko mumbled, "you're being too kind to me. But... I thank you. You go through so much and you still have so much strength and kindness... I do envy you, I'll admit. But I suppose... if friends are those who help you go through life..." She was hesitant, unsure. "May I... count you as a friend, Aria-san?"

The teacher stood slightly back, and tapped her chin thoughtfully.

Aria

"Absolutely." Aria responded, her smile growing wider as Himiko took her hand. Her grip, solid and firm, made it almost seem as if she was uncertain as to whether or not that Aria's hand would still be there for her to hold when she finally reached out to it, and her touch was cold from having held the great sphere of ice just moments before.

Nonetheless, Aria was happy that Himiko had accepted her offer of friendship. That one great step, breaking the barrier and showing that she was both grateful for her support and that she was willing to return the kindness that Himiko showed her. Standing up to Bourbon and validating her as something that could in fact be called 'human' meant the world to Aria, and she could only hope to return the favor.

Rabbit allowed him to sleep, letting him walk down the hallway and into his room in order to clear his head. Realizing he could not do anything else for him, he decided to go back to the ballroom. He knew that when Henry emerged again, they would have plenty to discuss. As a leader of his family, Henry would have to face said family and prove to them that he was worth leading them. They would be fierce, and he would need Rabbit to support him then. In the meantime, he needed his time alone to mourn his beloved uncle. When he got back to the ballroom, he attended to Aria, who was now standing on her own with Himiko. "Are you alright, dear? You did absolutely fantastic a moment ago. I'm sorry Madame Bourbon had to ruin it for you," he apologized.

Aria

When the Rabbit arrived, an even brighter grin lit up Aria's face. Of all the things that he had done for her in this week alone had earned him a fair bit of her admiration, and the switching of gender roles that he had done to confuse Bourbon minutes ago was simply priceless. That mask, once a symbol of enigma and forbidding mystery, was a sight for sore eyes in her mind.

"Thank you, Professor. I couldn't have done it without your teaching." Aria said cheerfully, smiling confidently for perhaps the first time during her entire time at the tournament, "In regards to my condition...Well, I'm not the woman who ran out of the room with a cut on my cheek. That little sight made every moment of her screaming just that much more bearable." she chuckled, shaking her head. It may have sounded cruel and maybe even a little uncharacteristic of her to speak of a person's pain in such a manner...but there was some part of her that made her feel justified in that statement.

Her smile was truly strong and happy, for once. It was a welcome sight, as she had been so shy and reserved recently. Even when she was the belle of the ball she had not shown this much confidence. Rabbit nodded to her and answered, "I did what I could, but much of that was your own skill...I do not believe I taught you how to create such intricate figures out of water and light, anyway...You are quite skilled all on your own, dear. You also have quite a lovely singing voice, I must say, as I found your song very soothing. As for what she did to you...I apologize that I perhaps did not do more to stop her. Fortunately, I believe Lady Abendroth may make up for that, but I hope you will forgive me for perhaps not being as openly opposed to her this time as I may have been in the past. I only hope she has not broken your spirits any. It is always a pleasant sight to see you being happy."

[Charlia]

Himiko's eyes widened slightly, and she reached out to take Aria's hand, fearfully, as if afraid that the redhead would melt away as her earlier construct had the moment they touched.

But Aria, being a real person and not a soulless ice sculpture, did not melt.

"...Aria-san..." Himiko mumbled, "you're being too kind to me. But... I thank you. You go through so much and you still have so much strength and kindness... I do envy you, I'll admit. But I suppose... if friends are those who help you go through life..." She was hesitant, unsure. "May I... count you as a friend, Aria-san?"

The teacher stood slightly back, and tapped her chin thoughtfully.

Aria

"Absolutely." Aria responded, her smile growing wider as Himiko took her hand. Her grip, solid and firm, made it almost seem as if she was uncertain as to whether or not that Aria's hand would still be there for her to hold when she finally reached out to it, and her touch was cold from having held the great sphere of ice just moments before.

Nonetheless, Aria was happy that Himiko had accepted her offer of friendship. That one great step, breaking the barrier and showing that she was both grateful for her support and that she was willing to return the kindness that Himiko showed her. Standing up to Bourbon and validating her as something that could in fact be called 'human' meant the world to Aria, and she could only hope to return the favor.

Himiko smiled in return--

And then Rabbit happened.

The strange masked teacher of ridiculously ambiguous gender was rather unsettling to Himiko, and as soon as he--she?--began to speak to Aria, she bowed deeply, smiled at the redhead, and took her leave, allowing the two to converse privately. As per usual, she thought with no bitterness. They are closer to each other than either is to me, so I won't intrude on their conversation.

[Chrome Legion]

Catherine de Sanguine Vivere


Catherine had stay out of the argument, simply watching Bourbon implode was enough for her, she felt no need to get involved. Instead she just watched with a smile. With Bourbon so incensed and unstable, she was sure to make a mistake, look for allies anywhere she could find them. So, before joining Aria to congratulate her, she had a few words with Kaas. After, she went over to join Aria and the others, smiling wide, both at Bourbon's demise and Aria's wondrous performance.

"That was great Ari. And I can't say I'm sad to see Bourbon put in such a position. Her outbursts and the following response will have weaken her prestige greatly. Plus, Mana getting the only perfect scores is quite satisfying." Catherine shook her head, not wanting to babble on about the political consequences of what had transpired. "You were brilliant up there, truly stunning. I'm proud that I could see that performance, and proud of you. I couldn't let my eye stray from you for even a second while you were up there."

Looking at the other girl with them, the Japanese student, Catherine held out a hand. "I don't think we've met, but I heard your name. Himiko-san right? I think you did what just about everyone else wanted to when you went up there and smacked Bourbon. I'd like to shake the hand responsible for that."

[Charlia]

Catherine de Sanguine Vivere


Catherine had stay out of the argument, simply watching Bourbon implode was enough for her, she felt no need to get involved. Instead she just watched with a smile. With Bourbon so incensed and unstable, she was sure to make a mistake, look for allies anywhere she could find them. So, before joining Aria to congratulate her, she had a few words with Kaas. After, she went over to join Aria and the others, smiling wide, both at Bourbon's demise and Aria's wondrous performance.

"That was great Ari. And I can't say I'm sad to see Bourbon put in such a position. Her outbursts and the following response will have weaken her prestige greatly. Plus, Mana getting the only perfect scores is quite satisfying." Catherine shook her head, not wanting to babble on about the political consequences of what had transpired. "You were brilliant up there, truly stunning. I'm proud that I could see that performance, and proud of you. I couldn't let my eye stray from you for even a second while you were up there."

Looking at the other girl with them, the Japanese student, Catherine held out a hand. "I don't think we've met, but I heard your name. Himiko-san right? I think you did what just about everyone else wanted to when you went up there and smacked Bourbon. I'd like to shake the hand responsible for that."

As Himiko was walking away, someone spoke to her, and she turned around with her eyes wide in surprise. "Oh! Um, yes! My name is Akuma Himiko. I'm pleased to meet you," she said, bowing. After she straightened up, she took Catherine's hand awkwardly. "...I'm sorry," she stammered. "I'm not really used to shaking hands with people... so I hope I'm doing this properly."

[Chrome Legion]

Catherine de Sanguine Vivere


"Like wise, I hope I used the correct honorific. As for if you're shaking hands properly, that depends. Just like a bow, or the use of honorific, a hand shake sends a message. You can say a lot with such a simple gesture. I grasped you hand firmly, but not tightly. I more tightly and it could be interpreted that I was trying to show authority over you, set my self above you in the social order. If it was quick and weak it could mean that I wasn't interested, that I was simply offering my hand as formality, with no actually interest in you, or that I was submitting to you. Some people would see it as offensive to use your left hand to shake, but I don't have much of a choice. The message I was trying to send, was different than those, it was greeting of equals, and an attempt to show you respect. So, what message would you have liked to send?"

Maybe Catherine was babbling on again, but such things as this had always interested her. Being raised in a house of politics it could be no other way. Plus, anyone that was on good terms with Aria was good in Catherine's book. Maybe the girl could make use of the knowledge if she was to stay alive in this world of high magic, and high politics.

[Vlamistaatti]

Hedeon Milatovka

Entertaining himself meanwhile in this little half serious chase of theirs. Passing along the long hallway, then down the stairs once, through several more blocks of the hotel's frame. While not at running pace he had to keep a light jog on just keep close near to the running beastly creature. Private hotel accommodated for them in specific had its perks, alt east in this way unnecessary amount of attention would be gathered by this little rascal running in the building.

It appeared that the creature was as if looking for something of specific, rather then going at blind random. As they ended up in the for now empty lobby, it stopped as on wall, circled around few times and right away proceeded to run away again. This same pattern of behavior was repeated in just about every location they passed by, that had relatively spacious build. Was it looking for a large open area?

Now again running through a long corridor, he tip toed right behind it, yet quite never even attempting of reaching and catching it.

[Charlia]

Catherine de Sanguine Vivere


"Like wise, I hope I used the correct honorific. As for if you're shaking hands properly, that depends. Just like a bow, or the use of honorific, a hand shake sends a message. You can say a lot with such a simple gesture. I grasped you hand firmly, but not tightly. I more tightly and it could be interpreted that I was trying to show authority over you, set my self above you in the social order. If it was quick and weak it could mean that I wasn't interested, that I was simply offering my hand as formality, with no actually interest in you, or that I was submitting to you. Some people would see it as offensive to use your left hand to shake, but I don't have much of a choice. The message I was trying to send, was different than those, it was greeting of equals, and an attempt to show you respect. So, what message would you have liked to send?"

Maybe Catherine was babbling on again, but such things as this had always interested her. Being raised in a house of politics it could be no other way. Plus, anyone that was on good terms with Aria was good in Catherine's book. Maybe the girl could make use of the knowledge if she was to stay alive in this world of high magic, and high politics.

"Um..." Himiko blinked. "...I suppose one of respect, and that it's good to meet you... I suppose... that means that your culture's handshakes and my culture's bows aren't that different, since they both convey a sense of station and respect for the other person. I never knew that. I, ah... I also don't know your name..."

[True Refuge]

RETCONNED

Quartz watched the ensuring carnage with disinterest and disapproval for its interruption of the conversation with Professor Rabbit. The discussion had been going so well, and here was Bourbon flaring her idiocy and ruining the day for everyone. He glared at her, unwilling to do anything more, but the rest of the audience was doing exactly that or looking dumbfounded and stupid by something that was remarkably simple.

If the French headmistress was displeased with the entrants qualities in that way, she should have tried to create a rule barring them from the tournament, under the illusion of 'fairness' for other contestants. He had not seen or heard of Madame Bourbon in a while, but it was clear that he disliked her the moment he saw a tournament several years ago, and this temper tantrum was not helping manners. There was a special kind of obtuseness in having the arrogance required to cause a scene in front of a crowd while representing a school, tournament committee and perhaps the entire Parisian magical community.

But of course, it devolved into something worse. What started as an argument between the judges seemed to turn into a shouting match between the numerous teams, teachers and the Madame, and Quartz's frown deepened from his unfortunately clear vantage point in the Academy's area. Instinct and reflex made him stick a hand inside his coat and cradle his revolver's grip, and when the caterpillar heads started appearing, he cocked it.

It passed. Apparently there was enough civility for that, and in the wind down of the altercation, Quartz inconspicuously dashed over to his seat and grabbed his Cane. It wasn't that he needed it, but if the tensions flared again, he certainly would.

There was an ounce of sympathy for Bourbon in Quartz, but not for her views. His sister was not a person that tolerated failures of officials and representatives. He could never predict what the Ernsts would do, but there was always the chance that it would be something horrible. Or perhaps not. His international business was either funnelled through their company or private contractors. Or, Amber would relish it herself.

When it was all done, he went up behind Rabbit, careful to do during a pause in his new discussion with the subject of all the discourse, Aria, and coughed loudly. "Are you all right, Rabbit?," he asked with a fair degree of caring. "Must of been a shock if Bourbon made you run off in the middle of a conversation."

[Luminesa]

Quartz watched the ensuring carnage with disinterest and disapproval for its interruption of the conversation with Professor Rabbit. The discussion had been going so well, and here was Bourbon flaring her idiocy and ruining the day for everyone. He glared at her, unwilling to do anything more, but the rest of the audience was doing exactly that or looking dumbfounded and stupid by something that was remarkably simple.

If the French headmistress was displeased with the entrants qualities in that way, she should have tried to create a rule barring them from the tournament, under the illusion of 'fairness' for other contestants. He had not seen or heard of Madame Bourbon in a while, but it was clear that he disliked her the moment he saw a tournament several years ago, and this temper tantrum was not helping manners. There was a special kind of obtuseness in having the arrogance required to cause a scene in front of a crowd while representing a school, tournament committee and perhaps the entire Parisian magical community.

But of course, it devolved into something worse. What started as an argument between the judges seemed to turn into a shouting match between the numerous teams, teachers and the Madame, and Quartz's frown deepened from his unfortunately clear vantage point in the Academy's area. Instinct and reflex made him stick a hand inside his coat and cradle his revolver's grip, and when the caterpillar heads started appearing, he cocked it.

It passed. Apparently there was enough civility for that, and in the wind down of the altercation, Quartz inconspicuously dashed over to his seat and grabbed his Cane. It wasn't that he needed it, but if the tensions flared again, he certainly would.

There was an ounce of sympathy for Bourbon in Quartz, but not for her views. His sister was not a person that tolerated failures of officials and representatives. He could never predict what the Ernsts would do, but there was always the chance that it would be something horrible. Or perhaps not. His international business was either funnelled through their company or private contractors. Or, Amber would relish it herself.

When it was all done, he went up behind Rabbit, careful to do during a pause in his new discussion with the subject of all the discourse, Aria, and coughed loudly. "Are you all right, Rabbit?," he asked with a fair degree of caring. "Must of been a shock if Bourbon made you run off in the middle of a conversation."

Rabbit turned to him, remembering once again his presence, and he turned to him. "Ah yes. I am well. Ladies such as herself do not bother me. They are cowards. I was more worried for my students, that she might attack them somehow and start a fight. I would certainly like to avoid a fight at this point in the tournament, unless the round calls specifically for fighting," he answered, with a slight laugh. He looked at the cane now, and also at Quartz's pocket. "...You look rather tense yourself, Quartz. Perhaps I should ask if you are alright?" he inquired politely, as he turned to look at the man again.

[Charlia]

Natalie's hands started shaking as she stared at the spot where Bunny-man had been what seemed like only moments ago. He'd never answered her. She'd ripped off the necklace she'd been given for everyone's safety and even threatened to eat Madame Bourbon, all in his defense...

And he wouldn't even speak to her? He just... he just walked away to go talk to someone else without even looking at her?

Her lower lip started trembling, and she bit it, hard, to keep it under control. Her inhumanly sharp teeth bit through the flesh easily, leaving a row of bleeding puncture marks behind. Feeling warm liquid on her lips, Natalie brushed it off and then looked down at her red-stained fingertips, her eyes widening and focusing in on the drops that had formed there.

She licked her lips, and her eyes widened even further as the strange coppery taste of blood overwhelmed all of her senses. There was nothing around her but a haze of beautiful red lines, dripping, so, so beautiful, why didn't the entire world look like this?

Then she realized.

She could make the world look like that. She could paint it red. It would be so easy...

"I'm sorry..."

A glint of blue in the red, and Natalie's eyes went even wider. Red... and blue... and red... falling down around the blue and hiding it... another color, almost white but not quite there... black... swirling colors... so much red...

"I... I can't take it anymore..."

Blood.

NO! NO! I DON'T WANT TO--

Natalie shoved the necklace back around her neck, and the feelings dissipated, the bloodlust that had nearly consumed her. She shivered violently and said a quiet thank-you to her girl who had saved her even though she was dead.

She shuddered again, and then pulled out a piece of cheese, beginning to nibble on it.

...That was scary...

[Luminesa]

Natalie's hands started shaking as she stared at the spot where Bunny-man had been what seemed like only moments ago. He'd never answered her. She'd ripped off the necklace she'd been given for everyone's safety and even threatened to eat Madame Bourbon, all in his defense...

And he wouldn't even speak to her? He just... he just walked away to go talk to someone else without even looking at her?

Her lower lip started trembling, and she bit it, hard, to keep it under control. Her inhumanly sharp teeth bit through the flesh easily, leaving a row of bleeding puncture marks behind. Feeling warm liquid on her lips, Natalie brushed it off and then looked down at her red-stained fingertips, her eyes widening and focusing in on the drops that had formed there.

She licked her lips, and her eyes widened even further as the strange coppery taste of blood overwhelmed all of her senses. There was nothing around her but a haze of beautiful red lines, dripping, so, so beautiful, why didn't the entire world look like this?

Then she realized.

She could make the world look like that. She could paint it red. It would be so easy...

"I'm sorry..."

A glint of blue in the red, and Natalie's eyes went even wider. Red... and blue... and red... falling down around the blue and hiding it... another color, almost white but not quite there... black... swirling colors... so much red...

"I... I can't take it anymore..."

Blood.

NO! NO! I DON'T WANT TO--

Natalie shoved the necklace back around her neck, and the feelings dissipated, the bloodlust that had nearly consumed her. She shivered violently and said a quiet thank-you to her girl who had saved her even though she was dead.

She shuddered again, and then pulled out a piece of cheese, beginning to nibble on it.

...That was scary...

Seeing how nervous she was, standing alone and eating a piece of cheese, Rabbit bent down and picked her up, as he continued to speak to Quartz. He did not question what she had just seen or felt, and that would be for a later time. Right now, she was a scared, tiny little creature who had just been shaken by the events that had unfolded in front of her. She had even tried to defend Rabbit from being harmed by Madame Bourbon, nearly turning into a monster to do so. His only worry was that by doing so, she could have hurt herself far more than she could have hurt Madame Bourbon. "You look a little shaken yourself, sweetheart," he told her, as he held the tiny "girl", "are you alright too? I did not mean to leave you without an answer. I was merely busy as usual..."