Exalted: Age of Sorrows (IC)

[Imperialisium]

Zychere

Zychere managed a painful nod to the aid given to him by a pair of Ledaal dynasts. His handsome face largely ruined and servants brought a stretcher over. Hoisting the wounded, profusely bleeding man, onto it. Zychere opening his mouth to take the potion into his gullet and his neck relaxed. His body relaxing. As the potion's contents helped with the pain. Zychere watched as one of the House Ledaal members call the other Eugeni and together they left. Leaving Zychere to be carried inside a nearby building by servants of House Cynis as he would have his wounds tended too. But deep in the back of his mind, all he felt was rage, a peculiar kind of anger that stung him deeply.

Zara's Private Chambers

Zara scooped up the glass filled with the Ice Walker brew and took a sip. Feeling the strong if bland taste of the strong liquor. It was at least a smooth texture for a beverage. If a bit course and burning on the throat and chest. Her body ached and she had a apple sized bruise on her right shoulder from where she had blocked the strong swing of Zychere. It was not a purple bruise nor did it look deep. But just a slight brown as her gambeson padding and armor had absorbed the potentially crippling power of the blow.

She lifted her eye brows, "An alibi yes. But innocence can be largely meaningless depending on the Inquisitor. Luckily, the Order is seldom to flagrant as to let Inquisitors that overstep their mark continue their duties for long."

She ran a hand through her hair to sweep back her bangs. Taking a second sip of the beverage she mused, "Zychere has been pursuing me for years. If anything I replaced his lust with hatred. Quite honestly I could care less for whichever he bore me." Finishing the beverage Zara placed the glass down on the flagstones of the private chambers and relaxed in the warm water. Cupping water in her hands she poured it over herself to wash her hair and face.

"So, fifteen years and here we are having a chat?"

[Parcia]

Yang


He downed the rest of his glass with ease and set it down next to hers, preferring to sip directly from the flask as it always seemed to stay chilled. At the mention of his time away, he chuckled. "Yea, 15 years...Gods...its been 15 years..." He took another swig, his smile fading and a far away look in his eyes beginning to form. "I wandered those dunes for years...went with out human contact for years...survived off of what I could hunt...drank cactus juice."

His gaze would seem to grow more distant. "Think I lost a part of my self out there...among those burning sands..." Suddenly he seemed to snap out of his trance, blinking a few times and taking another swig. "I found my way out eventually. Found some of the Aazimagh tribesmen. They helped me regather pieces of my mind. I started to learn their tongue, you know they all share a common language? They took me in, inducted me in to their tribe and taught me to read the land, to see nature and the world in a different light."

Another swig and a slightly pregnant pause. "They taught me how to ride, how to fight, how to live a different type of life, away from the matters of state and politics, free of courtly intrigue and backstabbing. I lived, Zara, a life. for a while I was a herder among them, tending to sheep in the more hospitable sections of the dunes. Then money became an issue, to many of the younger men were gone, killed by bandits or taken as slaves...I started walking the dunes, hunting criminals and those even the Order had not the range to touch. I like to think I brought some semblance of law to the edge of civilization."

Another Swig, another pregnant pause. "Most of the wanted posters are frames, things other criminals framed me for. The job in Lookshy was real, but I wasn't stealing alchemical supplies, I was stealing them back from those who had stolen them from the tribe in first place. Most of the money I'd make would go back to the tribe, helping the people who helped me. Shit, I even fell in love for a while..." His face would darken, his voice trailing off.

"Her name of Tzephhora. We were both so young...she was a dead shot with that bow that most of the men wouldn't court her because their ego's were too large. We hit it off though. We married young, had a daughter...my firelance was a gift from her father, though I had to mend it to working order."

Another sip. "Both of them are dead."

[Imperialisium]

Zara's Private Chambers

"I see," said Zara as she listened to Yang's impromptu story telling of his adventures. The mention of a daughter caused Zara to perk up. But she did not say anything. Instead she let him finish the recounting of his life that was summarized for her. "But I am sorry to hear about your losses that you endured." Zara reached up and pulled the vents closed as the last of the steam subsided. "Well now, I must turn in for the night, I suggest you get some rest Yang." Reaching to the side she grabbed a towel and using it to disguise herself as she rose from the tub. Wrapping it around her lithe athletic, curved, form that bore all the womanly shapes of a grown lady. She departed for her bed chamber. Leaving Yang alone in the bath chamber of Zara's private apartment in House Vai's Imperial City estate.

The bath chamber itself being rather spartanly furnished. But as the bed chamber door opened and closed Yang could glimpse scrolls, books, paintings, and a full body length mirror. A wide bed and jewelry stands. The door closing unceremoniously to leave Yang there until he showed himself out.


The Morning

The Imperial City's atmosphere, the day after the festivities, could be best described as lazy. Peasants to Merchants to Patricians woke groggily late in the morning, often hung over, as the city slowly rose like an aching student who had unwisely partied into the late night before morning exams. The House Vai estate was slowly showing signs of life as the servants woke first. The kitchen staff preparing the morning meals and teas. The sentries switching positions to take over for those that had stood watch in the night.

Zara herself was the first one in the Main Hall. Sitting in the same position as she had been when she had greeted Yang the day before. She sat wearing crimson silk robes, her hair done up and held by a pair of bronze styluses, while in her right hand she held a paper fan. Barisan arrived second and took position to her right while a tray of fine food and drink was laid out before her to eat. An activity that she took too eagerly as she gracefully lifted morsels of food into her mouth with the bronze utensils laid out before her.

[Union Princes]

House Vai
the Inquisition

Inquisitor Captain Willhard Strauch made his way to the main hall to sit and eat with Lady Zara. He had no fear of retaliation has he had already done his morning meditation and sent his band of flagellants to the nearest temple containing a letter addressed to Strauch’s superiors. They may be a band of idiots but when it comes to delivering reports, these flagellants are masters at it.

The letter contained information about the old Samurai’s findings in the the demon journal Lady Mnemon had kept hidden until now. Although Strauch respect Lady Mnemon’s wishes of letting the journal remain in her room, he did take the time to examine her room to find hidden storage spaces. Although he was unsuccessful, Strauch mentioned which locations in her room to pay close attention too.

It would not take long for the Inquisition to review his findings but until then, the old Samurai can continue his investigation into the murders now that Lady Zara is back.

The door to the main hall was opened for him by a servant who then announced his arrival to Lady Zara. After bowing his head to her in greeting, Strauch approached her.

“You know why I’m here.”

[Luminesa]

Zychere

Zychere managed a painful nod to the aid given to him by a pair of Ledaal dynasts. His handsome face largely ruined and servants brought a stretcher over. Hoisting the wounded, profusely bleeding man, onto it. Zychere opening his mouth to take the potion into his gullet and his neck relaxed. His body relaxing. As the potion's contents helped with the pain. Zychere watched as one of the House Ledaal members call the other Eugeni and together they left. Leaving Zychere to be carried inside a nearby building by servants of House Cynis as he would have his wounds tended too. But deep in the back of his mind, all he felt was rage, a peculiar kind of anger that stung him deeply.

Zara's Private Chambers

Zara scooped up the glass filled with the Ice Walker brew and took a sip. Feeling the strong if bland taste of the strong liquor. It was at least a smooth texture for a beverage. If a bit course and burning on the throat and chest. Her body ached and she had a apple sized bruise on her right shoulder from where she had blocked the strong swing of Zychere. It was not a purple bruise nor did it look deep. But just a slight brown as her gambeson padding and armor had absorbed the potentially crippling power of the blow.

She lifted her eye brows, "An alibi yes. But innocence can be largely meaningless depending on the Inquisitor. Luckily, the Order is seldom to flagrant as to let Inquisitors that overstep their mark continue their duties for long."

She ran a hand through her hair to sweep back her bangs. Taking a second sip of the beverage she mused, "Zychere has been pursuing me for years. If anything I replaced his lust with hatred. Quite honestly I could care less for whichever he bore me." Finishing the beverage Zara placed the glass down on the flagstones of the private chambers and relaxed in the warm water. Cupping water in her hands she poured it over herself to wash her hair and face.

"So, fifteen years and here we are having a chat?"

Eugeni - Beauty Is a Memory

Zychere’s face was a horrid sight. He was bleeding profusely from the side of his head, and he had several broken bones everywhere. The swelling made the pain almost unbearable. Eugeni knit his brows together, until a man took the potion from him and poured it into the fallen duelist’s mouth. Quickly, the potion worked as Eugeni prescribed it. He began to relax, and the swelling began to settle. Like morphine, the concoction caused for Zychere’s body to relax. Eugeni could tell he was humiliated, but he could only watch as he was taken on a stretcher.

Something about the pitiful face weighed in his mind as he turned back to his younger cousin. Shi had been eyeing him with worry, and Eugeni gave him an assuring smile. “...I believe our night here is done. Let us go home and rest. I had hoped tonight would be more pleasant, but unfortunately we shall find more peace at home. I only hope my mother and father are not so disappointed that I still do not have a wife,” he joked. He then took Shi’s hand, and walked with him away from the estate. Their horses and guards were outside to greet them, and Eugeni mounted his horse to ride with the rest of House Ledaal.

As they traveled home, he took the time to meditate on the face he saw. Once it was so proud and poised, now it was battered, its beauty gone. Unless somehow the bones were reconstructed and the skin was grafted, he would just be a cripple, an abomination to the public. Eugeni felt his heart sink. He did not look back at his cousin as he rode, though he knew he was most likely fine. When they arrived home, he explained the situation to his parents. They were indeed disappointed, but their gladness at his and Shi’s safety outweighed any personal gripes. Eugeni then bowed, and went to his room.

Despite the fact that he had servants to change his clothes for him, he decided to undress and re-dress himself for now. He carefully removed and folded his robes, unclipped his hairpiece, and stared at his face in the mirror. With his tanned skin, golden eyes, and red eyeshadow, he looked like an exotic flower, a flame standing still. He had been blessed with beauty, but he still knew that he was even fairer in his younger days. Not to let such shallow thoughts overwhelm him, however, he removed his makeup with a wet cloth, and prepared for bed. In a set of plain white night-robes, he walked to his bed, and he grabbed something out a drawer next to his bed.

A journal. Leather-bound with the gorgeous calligraphy of a robin in a tree gracing the front. He looked down over the cover lovingly, and then opened to a new page. He reached for an ink quill, and he began to write by candlelight.

Entry 229

Beloved friend! I wonder what you would have thought of the party which I attended tonight. Such a strange affair. One moment, I was gazing upon the endless stars, and bountiful flowers of the gardens of another palace. I know you love roses, I would have asked to pick one for you. I wonder if I saw your face in the stars, and that was why I was so captivated by them. You know that I have been sent to find a lover, and a wife. And yet the party was so lonely. I missed your knowing smile, your ponderings of the world, the way you could read and understand the people around you. You would have had more success at this party than I.

And yet the party became violent. A woman of House Cyris and a drunken man got into a duel, which also dragged my House into the conflict. Such a shameful display, and I felt as though I did not need to stay any longer. Shi and I left as soon as we could. Do you remember Shi? I am sure. I have told you about him many times. He is so grown and wonderful, he even looks like a young man now. I am so proud of him. You would be impressed. But yes, the violent party was vacated quickly, and now I am here. I write to you longing to hear your voice, wishing to talk to you again. I write these letters because they are the only way I can grasp you. Please be safe, and hold my memory close.

Sincerely,
Eugeni Ledaal

He closed the journal, kissed it, and placed it at his bedside. He then rolled over in the bed to sleep, hoping to find some sort of rest after this turbulent night. He hoped Shi would also sleep well, and as he closed his eyes, he smiled. Tomorrow, he would help his cousin with his studies, and would help him be more confident in his etiquiette.

The Next Morning

Eugeni awakened at dawn, as he usually did, and he sat upright in his bed. Enjoying the silence of the morning, speckled with the sounds of chirping birds, brought him the peace he needed to start his day. He sighed with happy relief, as nothing had happened the rest of the night. He hummed along with a bird singing outside of his window, and he looked out. “...Today shall be beautiful...I can feel it...” He hopped out the bed, and he dressed himself in some oddly plain clothes. A white blouse, navy pants, a brown leather vest, a brown sash, and lipstick-red slippers. His mother had once told him to dress more manly, but he felt he was masculine enough, and was quite comfortable in his chosen clothes.

His first task was to find Shi, and to bring him his breakfast. He joined the servants in the kitchen, and began to prepare a dish for his cousin. They were used to him joining in the kitchen, and a couple sleepy-eyed servants even waved to him as he entered. He worked meticulously and with a quiet cheer, putting delicate care into making the platter. Steamed buns filled with fruity preserves, rice congee, tofu pudding, and hot jasmine tea. A light breakfast for Shi to enjoy in bed. A servant helped him to bring the platters and bowls to his cousin’s room, but Eugeni knocked. “...Shi! We’ve made you breakfast, dear cousin...” he called, in a sing-song voice. He entered the room with the servant, and they both placed the food on the nightstand. The servant then left, leaving Eugeni to sit beside his cousin’s bedside.

[Finsternia]

Shi Enneal Iselsi-Ledaal

Zychere's face was once a well sculpted vase with antique colors and scenery painted upon it but now it was nothing but a shattered watermelon on the streets. His nose is more than broken, and his eyes would probably be in the perpetual state of a swollen plum for weeks if left untreated. Shi stared long enough to not be accused as jeering with a disapproving look on his face. He nods towards Zychere and the medics of House Cynis before leaving with his cousin. He let his cousin hold his hand, he knew that Eugeni would like to hold onto someone in these kinds of nerve wracking situations. "Alcohol changes a person. The Devil's Nectar can cause even the most honorable of men and of the Exalted to lose their face over trivial things." He turned towards the members of House Ledaal that are scattered all over the venue. Some are gawking at the scene, some are slightly injured and being treated, and some are just lounging and enjoying the party, uninterested with the brawl. He waves his hand in a crisp and sharp motion as his voice raises. "House Ledaal, move out. Party time is over."

As the carriages are being filled, and horses are being saddled, he watched as his cousin and once Master saddle up upon his horse. The Lordmaster doesn't seem to care about protocol as much as other Ledaals. Each and every Ledaal has their own brand of eccentricity and Eugeni is one awkward and scholarly sorcerer. He could only shake his head as he jumps up upon his own steed and rides next to his cousin. "The Lord and Lady would probably find you a wife soon. Perhaps you'll find the love of your life in that affair. They'll probably find another eccentric and philosophical sorceress for you to be paired to." He laughed as they traversed the lively night streets, and towards the beautiful stronghold of the Ledaals. Servants rushed to take their horses and their baggages, and to escort them into the mansion proper. House Ledaal's mansion within the Imperial Capital is magnificent but it is more of a complex filled with many many libraries and rooms fit for scholars and magicians. Shi reported back along with Eugeni to the Lord and Lady of the House, and hinting that House Cynis might be pursuing the issue with House Vai. As soon as they are dismissed, Shi freed himself with the fancy accoutrements, wearing a loose silk white shirt and baggy pants. With his windows open, he slipped out with well practiced and almost perfected skill and headed out towards the barracks and training field. He then sneaked up to a certain door where his fist knocked upon it thrice. A young man with shaggy black hair and commendable features opens it, slightly groggy as he blinks his bright sapphire eyes at Shi. "Want to spar, Captain?" The Exalted smiles, with a formerly hidden dagger dancing in his fingertips.

The next morning

Sunlight filters into the room, shining down upon a pair of naked bodies. Shi rose earlier, yawning and stretching as he reached for his breaches and pants, putting them on as a knock came over his door. His lithe body slithered across the room, almost in a predatory and supernatural way, and his hand found itself opening the door tp his chambers. He flashed a smile towards Eugeni and the fleeing servant, opening his door even more. "Please come in, cousin. Please forgive my state of undress. I just woke up." The man in Shi's bed is the same man he approached for a nighttime spar, now his body showered with bite and kiss marks. His eyes blinked as he saw the two Dynasts in the room and immediately stood up, covering his privates as his face burned bright. "C-Captain Ulther, r-reporting, my Lordships!" Shi only chuckled as he swept down to pick the Captain of the Guards' clothes and handed it to him. "I'll be seeing you in the barracks again, Ulther. I need someone to dance with perhaps by midday after lunch." The young man nodded, still bright red, and he proceeded to cover and cloth himself, and bid his farewell to both Shi and Eugeni. The Water Aspect opened his wardrobe to fetch a deep blue bathrobe to cover himself up, and swept a small table clean for Eugeni to place his breakfast on. "I'm sorry for the unsightly view as early as this, cousin... Anyway, it seems that it's personal breakfast day again? It seems that our House members are still the same as ever. Always studying as soon as the sun rises."

[Luminesa]

Shi Enneal Iselsi-Ledaal

Zychere's face was once a well sculpted vase with antique colors and scenery painted upon it but now it was nothing but a shattered watermelon on the streets. His nose is more than broken, and his eyes would probably be in the perpetual state of a swollen plum for weeks if left untreated. Shi stared long enough to not be accused as jeering with a disapproving look on his face. He nods towards Zychere and the medics of House Cynis before leaving with his cousin. He let his cousin hold his hand, he knew that Eugeni would like to hold onto someone in these kinds of nerve wracking situations. "Alcohol changes a person. The Devil's Nectar can cause even the most honorable of men and of the Exalted to lose their face over trivial things." He turned towards the members of House Ledaal that are scattered all over the venue. Some are gawking at the scene, some are slightly injured and being treated, and some are just lounging and enjoying the party, uninterested with the brawl. He waves his hand in a crisp and sharp motion as his voice raises. "House Ledaal, move out. Party time is over."

As the carriages are being filled, and horses are being saddled, he watched as his cousin and once Master saddle up upon his horse. The Lordmaster doesn't seem to care about protocol as much as other Ledaals. Each and every Ledaal has their own brand of eccentricity and Eugeni is one awkward and scholarly sorcerer. He could only shake his head as he jumps up upon his own steed and rides next to his cousin. "The Lord and Lady would probably find you a wife soon. Perhaps you'll find the love of your life in that affair. They'll probably find another eccentric and philosophical sorceress for you to be paired to." He laughed as they traversed the lively night streets, and towards the beautiful stronghold of the Ledaals. Servants rushed to take their horses and their baggages, and to escort them into the mansion proper. House Ledaal's mansion within the Imperial Capital is magnificent but it is more of a complex filled with many many libraries and rooms fit for scholars and magicians. Shi reported back along with Eugeni to the Lord and Lady of the House, and hinting that House Cynis might be pursuing the issue with House Vai. As soon as they are dismissed, Shi freed himself with the fancy accoutrements, wearing a loose silk white shirt and baggy pants. With his windows open, he slipped out with well practiced and almost perfected skill and headed out towards the barracks and training field. He then sneaked up to a certain door where his fist knocked upon it thrice. A young man with shaggy black hair and commendable features opens it, slightly groggy as he blinks his bright sapphire eyes at Shi. "Want to spar, Captain?" The Exalted smiles, with a formerly hidden dagger dancing in his fingertips.

The next morning

Sunlight filters into the room, shining down upon a pair of naked bodies. Shi rose earlier, yawning and stretching as he reached for his breaches and pants, putting them on as a knock came over his door. His lithe body slithered across the room, almost in a predatory and supernatural way, and his hand found itself opening the door tp his chambers. He flashed a smile towards Eugeni and the fleeing servant, opening his door even more. "Please come in, cousin. Please forgive my state of undress. I just woke up." The man in Shi's bed is the same man he approached for a nighttime spar, now his body showered with bite and kiss marks. His eyes blinked as he saw the two Dynasts in the room and immediately stood up, covering his privates as his face burned bright. "C-Captain Ulther, r-reporting, my Lordships!" Shi only chuckled as he swept down to pick the Captain of the Guards' clothes and handed it to him. "I'll be seeing you in the barracks again, Ulther. I need someone to dance with perhaps by midday after lunch." The young man nodded, still bright red, and he proceeded to cover and cloth himself, and bid his farewell to both Shi and Eugeni. The Water Aspect opened his wardrobe to fetch a deep blue bathrobe to cover himself up, and swept a small table clean for Eugeni to place his breakfast on. "I'm sorry for the unsightly view as early as this, cousin... Anyway, it seems that it's personal breakfast day again? It seems that our House members are still the same as ever. Always studying as soon as the sun rises."

Eugeni - Knocked Twice, Found Once

Eugeni had taken his time to journal, the previous night. Thus as he had sat in his bed, he had heard Shi returning to his room in the mansion. Small, graceful footsteps, followed by the heavier ones of a military man. He had heard them speaking to each other, and then silence. He had paused in his writing, as Shi had spoken to the captain. His mind had wandered elsewhere, when he had realized that, of course, his younger cousin was flirting. He had stared down at the pages of his journal, and had blinked. He would have written more in his journal, but he had decided to sleep.

Now as he was awake, the pause returned to his mind as he saw the naked countenance of his little cousin. He continued to smile, ignoring the budding thoughts in his head, whatever they might be. “Hello, my dear cousin. I am glad to see you slept well!” Seeing the bite-marks and kisses was not an uncommon sight, but the older, less social Ledaal seemed to let his mind wander as he saw them. Shi was a child not too long ago, now he was grown with more energy than Eugeni had found at his age. He chuckled as the captain had jumped out of bed, covering himself for decency’s sake, and had tried to greet the older Noble with some slight sliver of seriousness. “At ease, my good sir. Breakfast will be served in the barracks as well, the servants have worked hard on it,” he answered with a kind smile.

The captain left, and now Shi and Eugeni were left alone. The latter sat next to the former, smiling, and he did not comment on seeing his younger cousin naked. “...Yes, yes, I did want to study with you today!...I hope that you do not mind. I was going to help you practice your Wind Magic today,” he explained. As Shi ate, Eugeni then found himself staring into the cup of tea, as it sat steaming. For some reason, he had gone silent once again. Yet he always looked peaceful and sweet, even when his mind was tumbling.

[Finsternia]

Shi Enneal Iselsi-Ledaal

"Wind Sorcery... The Elders still wouldn't accept the purity of the blood of Daana'd within me, I see... I will always follow Lordmaster's vision of me. I understand that you see that the Air would greatly help with my own abilities." Picking up the chopsticks off the table, Shi started to eat his breakfast, slow and steady. He has spent the latter half of his life under the care and attention of Eugeni, alongside the watchful gaze of Ledaal elders and older members. What he lacked in his former sparkless life was hammered into him. Martial training, eloquence, noble bearing, etiquette, and a whetstone for the mind were all beaten into him, and he must excel beneath the newly found crushing pressure. He couldn't lose face for his Lordmaster, and he couldn't tarnish the name of Ledaal and his heritage of Iselsi with mediocrity. Under surprised eyes did he show that he had surprising talent with the silent ways. Daggers seem to vanish and appear almost without reason, his movements would be a gentle trickle before becoming a drowning wave. "I haven't had much luck with Sorcery but... I have tried to study the theories. I hope to make Lordmaster proud of me." He spoke in between bites and chews and soon enough the platter is clean. His hands deftly cleaned up the used plates and stacked them neatly to the side as he served the still warm tea upon dainty porcelain cups. He poured a cup first for Eugeni before he poured one for his own. Shi looked up to see his cousin stare into the swirling cup of tea, seemingly deep in thought. "Is my esteemed cousin divining the future through my served tea? What are you thinking about?" As the hot pot of tea is set down, Shi sat back down and sipped his own, washing down his breakfast with the lightness of jasmine tea. "Has the Elders and their Lordship and Ladyship picked a partner for you?"

[Luminesa]

Shi Enneal Iselsi-Ledaal

"Wind Sorcery... The Elders still wouldn't accept the purity of the blood of Daana'd within me, I see... I will always follow Lordmaster's vision of me. I understand that you see that the Air would greatly help with my own abilities." Picking up the chopsticks off the table, Shi started to eat his breakfast, slow and steady. He has spent the latter half of his life under the care and attention of Eugeni, alongside the watchful gaze of Ledaal elders and older members. What he lacked in his former sparkless life was hammered into him. Martial training, eloquence, noble bearing, etiquette, and a whetstone for the mind were all beaten into him, and he must excel beneath the newly found crushing pressure. He couldn't lose face for his Lordmaster, and he couldn't tarnish the name of Ledaal and his heritage of Iselsi with mediocrity. Under surprised eyes did he show that he had surprising talent with the silent ways. Daggers seem to vanish and appear almost without reason, his movements would be a gentle trickle before becoming a drowning wave. "I haven't had much luck with Sorcery but... I have tried to study the theories. I hope to make Lordmaster proud of me." He spoke in between bites and chews and soon enough the platter is clean. His hands deftly cleaned up the used plates and stacked them neatly to the side as he served the still warm tea upon dainty porcelain cups. He poured a cup first for Eugeni before he poured one for his own. Shi looked up to see his cousin stare into the swirling cup of tea, seemingly deep in thought. "Is my esteemed cousin divining the future through my served tea? What are you thinking about?" As the hot pot of tea is set down, Shi sat back down and sipped his own, washing down his breakfast with the lightness of jasmine tea. "Has the Elders and their Lordship and Ladyship picked a partner for you?"

Eugeni - Probably Loves Books More Than Women

“We can also practice your Water Magic, if you wish. Your abilities must be nurtured, or you will lose them,” Eugeni answered, picking-up his cup of tea. He took a sip, and then stared into space once again. He was glad that Shi was enjoying his food. The younger cousin was used to Eugeni coming to give him his breakfast, but the older cousin hoped that he still saw it as a special gesture. Shi focused so much on trying to be perfect, that Eugeni wondered if he was crushing him. He hoped he was a patient and adequate teacher.

“...You have progressed well, Shi. Theories are theories, until they are put into practice. Sorcery is difficult for many Magic-users, but I do not doubt you will understand it soon enough.” He took another sip of his tea and glanced at Shi. His mind had wandered elsewhere since the previous night, as he had stared into his journal for the 229th time and had heard the talking from Shi’s room. Eugeni realized he did not have many friends, and he did not have many lovers at all. Despite his parents’ best attempts, and his own subtle charms, he seemed unable to socialize with as many women as was expected of a noble.

Shi mentioning the topic of divining and finding a lover brought Eugeni back into the conversation, and he chuckled. “...Oh no, I am not trained in divination. And even then, I do not know if I would want to see the future. I am happy to live my moments as they come,” he suggested. A sigh did escape his throat as he thought about his parents’ plans for him. “...They have tried with...several young women...They were all lovely, but...I did not feel a connection with them...Perhaps it is juvenile to...want to marry for love...But I desired to live a life in love...To experience that joy...Maybe I can...fall in love with them after we are married? It seems like a roulette game...But I must produce heirs and heiresses for the family...”

He seemed to mumble his words more than speak them. Eugeni was not certain about his abilities as a lover and a husband. He felt he had hardly taken the time in college to try and fall in love, and now he did not go into public as much. As a royal, he was expected to stay away from the populace, since anyone could try to kill him. If he left, he left with guards and Shi, not that he minded the presence of the latter. He ran a hand through his hair. “...Maybe I will see them again...” he murmured.

[Finsternia]

Shi Enneal Iselsi-Ledaal

"Such is our life, cousin. Even now I am still in shock. It's our duty to the Empress and her Realm, and to our House..." Shi sipped his tea with melancholy as he remembered those days when he was inducted into the House proper. He was immediately washed, had his clothes changed, had his hair pampered and styled. From there on, he was hammered into shape by the brutality of Dynast training. He was taught on how to be a soldier, how to be a thinker, and finally, his duty to the Realm. Even if it is perfumed and repackaged with a shiny wrapping and glittering bow, it is clear for someone who wasn't raised since childhood to be the perfect Exalted: it is the destiny of all Exalted to be breeding mares and stallions. It still tastes bitter in Shi's mouth and tongue even until this day. Even if the public has no qualms for those who prefer the same sex, they are still forced to sire children. He set down the cup, the crisp ting from the porcelain cup and saucer echoing in Eugeni's ears, as if his cousin wanted to break his thoughts away.

"Even if you don't love your future wife... No one will care if you find a mistress that you really love... as long as you work well for the House..." Shi forced a smile. That same fate and path would very well be his own, perhaps even deserting such union. He then clears his throat and sits properly. "Lordmaster, I believe I've strayed us away from the current matters. Ah, shall I fetch the books?" He stands up and slithers across the room towards a towering and well kept bookshelf. Shi ran his fingers over the titles on the books' spines, taking a couple until he has a small stack of five books on different topics of Sorcery. He made his way back to the table and neatly presented the books to Eugeni. "The basics of Sorcery and several other topics on the specific branches of magic." He sits back down and took his cup back.

[Luminesa]

Shi Enneal Iselsi-Ledaal

"Such is our life, cousin. Even now I am still in shock. It's our duty to the Empress and her Realm, and to our House..." Shi sipped his tea with melancholy as he remembered those days when he was inducted into the House proper. He was immediately washed, had his clothes changed, had his hair pampered and styled. From there on, he was hammered into shape by the brutality of Dynast training. He was taught on how to be a soldier, how to be a thinker, and finally, his duty to the Realm. Even if it is perfumed and repackaged with a shiny wrapping and glittering bow, it is clear for someone who wasn't raised since childhood to be the perfect Exalted: it is the destiny of all Exalted to be breeding mares and stallions. It still tastes bitter in Shi's mouth and tongue even until this day. Even if the public has no qualms for those who prefer the same sex, they are still forced to sire children. He set down the cup, the crisp ting from the porcelain cup and saucer echoing in Eugeni's ears, as if his cousin wanted to break his thoughts away.

"Even if you don't love your future wife... No one will care if you find a mistress that you really love... as long as you work well for the House..." Shi forced a smile. That same fate and path would very well be his own, perhaps even deserting such union. He then clears his throat and sits properly. "Lordmaster, I believe I've strayed us away from the current matters. Ah, shall I fetch the books? Are we going to see our Sidereal tutors for Sorcery?" He stands up and slithers across the room towards a towering and well kept bookshelf. Shi ran his fingers over the titles on the books' spines, taking a couple until he has a small stack of five books on different topics of Sorcery. His mind wandered to the Sidereals, the only other Exalted who supported the Scarlet Throne. The Champions of the Five Maidens of Fate, they served as advisors, steadfast tutors and lecturers to the Dragon Blooded. He made his way back to the table and neatly presented the books to Eugeni. "The basics of Sorcery and several other topics on the specific branches of magic. Maybe after our tea we can find a tutor for us?"

Eugeni - Doesn’t Know Much About Royal Relationships

“...Yes...duty always comes first. We must do what is best for our family, Shi.” He looked up and noticed Shi’s forced smile. Tenderly, he reached over and brushed his hair with his hand. When Shi was younger, Eugeni would sit and braid his hair, a calming ritual for both of them. The younger boy had so much hair, all in a cascade of silver. Now Eugeni stroked his hair to remind him that he was not some distant taskmaster. He was family, and family who loved him. “...I shall always be here to help you. If and when you do become a father...I will make sure you are even better than I am...But for now, do not worry. You are young, and you have much more time than I do...I am being told to hurry and to marry...” He chuckled, but his laugh was soft and more muted. “...I would not enjoy having a mistress...but I would love to know more of the world...”

Deciding to fix his mind in other matters, before he began rambling about personal feelings and experiences, he finished his tea and watched Shi grab some of the books in his room. He moved slowly and felt the books with care, searching for the tome he needed. “Yes, we shall go to see them. I would prefer to tutor you myself, but if you wish, we shall go see them,” he suggested. A servant came to retrieve the dishes, and Eugeni walked over to his cousin’s side. When his little cousin presented the necessary books, Eugeni nodded, and he looked through the books.

“...We can look at more than the basics, if you wish...” He glanced at Shi as he flipped through a book on Sorcery Theory. Inside, something popped-out at him. His eyes widened for a second, and then he closed the book. “...Perhaps a different book...” Eugeni knew he was mumbling quite a lot, and if his dear cousin was paying attention, he would have realized his Master washer melancholy than usual. He paused for a moment, and then he spoke to Shi. “...Actually...I would like to go out today. Now that I think about it...I know someone who can teach you...”

[Finsternia]

Shi Enneal Iselsi-Ledaal

"I am not so opposed to Lordmaster's tutelage! You are a tutor to our younger generations after all." He himself picked up a smaller book on the basics of illusions and the art of deceptive sorceries. His oceanic eyes trailed upon the pages as his eyebrows knit together. Sorcery is a study of a lifetime, of secrets and strict rules, unlike the abilities that are inherent to the Dragon Blooded that flare to life when called. One needed the correct words, the correct gestures, even the correct items and materials compared to the willed expression of elemental power. Still, House Ledaal valued such esoteric mysteries, putting martial power and sorcerous secrets almost at the same level with each other. Many accomplished sorcerers walked these venerated halls, with their statuses given more respect than other more superstitious Dynasts. "I wouldn't mind if we could tackle the advanced ones but I am still learning. I don't have much practice with these things..." His ears twitched as he noticed that his cousin has lowered his voice, trailing into mumbling whispers as his mind flew elsewhere. He waited for Eugeni to recollect his thoughts as he made himself familiar with arcane words and gestures. Shi finally looked up as Eugeni resumed his dialogue and he closed the book in his hands. "I'm guessing that it is an aquaintance from the Heptagram?"

[Luminesa]

Shi Enneal Iselsi-Ledaal

"I am not so opposed to Lordmaster's tutelage! You are a tutor to our younger generations after all." He himself picked up a smaller book on the basics of illusions and the art of deceptive sorceries. His oceanic eyes trailed upon the pages as his eyebrows knit together. Sorcery is a study of a lifetime, of secrets and strict rules, unlike the abilities that are inherent to the Dragon Blooded that flare to life when called. One needed the correct words, the correct gestures, even the correct items and materials compared to the willed expression of elemental power. Still, House Ledaal valued such esoteric mysteries, putting martial power and sorcerous secrets almost at the same level with each other. Many accomplished sorcerers walked these venerated halls, with their statuses given more respect than other more superstitious Dynasts. "I wouldn't mind if we could tackle the advanced ones but I am still learning. I don't have much practice with these things..." His ears twitched as he noticed that his cousin has lowered his voice, trailing into mumbling whispers as his mind flew elsewhere. He waited for Eugeni to recollect his thoughts as he made himself familiar with arcane words and gestures. Shi finally looked up as Eugeni resumed his dialogue and he closed the book in his hands. "I'm guessing that it is an aquaintance from the Heptagram?"

Eugeni - It Always Comes Back to Here

Eugeni was pleased that Shi would be happy with his tutelage. He pat his head and grinned. “...I shall aid in your tutoring today, but today we shall visit another individual. They are someone I met at university, and while we have not spoken in...some time...I believe he shall be able to provide us with some help. But we will not leave with all of the guards. And they will only wait outside.” Eugeni was confident that he could defend himself, should trouble arise, but both Ledaals would be safe with the older Noble’s acquaintance. He certainly trusted him, though Shi did not know him.

As soon as Shi was dressed, Eugeni walked out the room and gathered some of the guards. He then looked back to the room and waited for Shi. When his parents came to talk, they noticed the presence of guards and began to question their son.

“Where are you going? To train?”

“I am going to train Shi. We shall be back this afternoon.”

“You are going out to where?”

“To the city. The university, father.”

“But you have graduated! Have you gone to find a book or one of the teachers?”

“Yes, sir. I hoped Shi would learn from the experience.”

His parents gave each other concerned looks, as they worried about their son and his cousin going into the public. At least he did not stop to talk to everyone, and Shi always followed Eugeni. And yet one could never be sure of what would become of the duo in town. “...Be safe, my dear boy...” His mother pecked his cheek, and then walked away gracefully alongside his father. Eugeni then turned back to Shi, and motioned to him. “Come. We shall be able to reach him soon.”

Moving out into the city was a careful affair, as the Nobles made sure to remain within the small circle of guards. While Eugeni had a tendency to study and examine his surroundings, he was currently on a mission. Some thought had brushed him out of his daydreaming, and he had decided to take an action. Hopefully Shi would learn from it, but Eugeni may have had other reasons for going back to the university. He had not seen it in several years, and one would have even found it odd for him to be going back to school now. Yet he was focused, and he and Shi moved to the complex. The older cousin knew exactly where to look.

The Magical History Teacher in this Imperial School was older, with his hair beginning to gray. And yet it never seemed to get grayer, nor did his eyes become any less of a sharper green. He was reading through papers at his desk in his office, with a cup of tea on his desk. Despite sitting with his feet up on the desk, he was still a refined-looking man, and one who managed to look imposing even without anyone in the room. He heard a knock at the door, and he rose immediately. “...Enter,” he spoke, as a man both somehow tired and gruff. And yet when Eugeni entered with Shi, his eyes became brighter with interest. “...Well then!...What is this?...You are not back in classes, are you, Eugeni? I would not be surprised. It has been some time, has it not?”

“...Yes, sir, Dr. Gregor. It has.” Eugeni bowed, pausing before he made the slow gesture. He was clearly thinking again, but he focused for Shi’s sake. “...This is my little cousin, Shi. He has grown much, and I have brought him so that you may assist in tutoring him in sorcery!”

Dr. Gregor narrowed his eyes at the younger boy, looming several inches taller than both young men. He studied Shi’s face, and nodded. “...You wish to become a better Mage, then. Well then. I suppose I can aid you...” He gave Eugeni a suspicious look, wondering why he was so bent on bringing the boy to him. “...You did not feel you could tutor him alone, young man? You were quite bright, as far as I remembered.” A smirk appeared, as grim and structured as the rest of his face.

“...Yes, but...I wished for you to aid him as well...If you could...spare some time...I am sorry if I am intruding on your free time,” Eugeni apologized. Yet he noticed that the professor’s eyes never blinked as he watched him. They continued to glow with interest, and the teacher nodded. Eugeni sighed his relief. “...In the courtyard with me, Shi Ledaal. Eugeni may spectate, or he may assist when he chooses.” He put on his shoes and coat, and he gave the younger boy an intimidating stare as he walked out the room.

Despite being obedient and private in his normal, everyday life, Eugeni was not an unknowing person. His actions were deliberate and thoughtful, and he walked next to Shi with a cheery smile as he hoped for the session to go well. The younger boy was his legacy, at least until he produced children of his own. And Eugeni wished to devote all of his time to the family he loved. At the same time, however, he had wished for some sort of a life, and one had to wonder if he was coming back to the uni to seek it.

[Finsternia]

Shi Enneal Iselsi-Ledaal

"If the Lordmaster is vouching for this person then they must be an exemplar within the school to be able to gain your utmost admiration." He smiled as he placed the book upon his lap. His Master is an academic through and through, and while he is weaker in the terms of physicality, his achievements in the field of sorcery isn't something to look down on. House Ledaal prized talents such as this, an inquisitive and flighty mind that picked books and all sorts of hobbies wherever they go. He stood up and took the books back to his shelf. "If my honored Lordmaster could wait, I would like to change into more... sanctimonious clothing." Shi chuckled as he gestured to his barely clothed personage, with only pants and a robe on.

About five to ten minutes passed and Shi left his room fully dressed. He wore a volumous set of robes, made from soft and shiny silk, with hints of sea foam green and blue when it is hit by sunlight and embroidered with soaring serpentine dragons. His movements made his robes ripple like that of a lake's disturbed surface, accenting his status as an Aspect of Water. His long and thick white hair is braided behind him, with two parts of it unbraided and are placed to the front. His right hand is placed upon a silver cane, its handle the head of a dragon, and its metallic sheen almost seems like it is glimmering, showing thw shine of the metals that fall from the high heavens. He followed Eugeni to his parents, silent and still behind the older man. Eugeni is of the softer variety, and oddly enough his parents dote over him. House Ledaal is dotted with great oddities here and there after all, and he has accepted it long ago. With a bow to the two elders, they both set forth out of the House's territory. Armed men trailed the two Exalted, and even if the two are vastly more compenent than these guards, it would never hurt to have some back up. Sometimes Eugeni would stop and ponder, stare at fleeting clouds and sometimes listen to a nearby stream's whistling waters. Shi would stop behind him, waiting for his Master to resume, answering some of his musings. This has been their relationship ever since Shi has placed within Eugeni's care: the master and the follower, the philosopher and the student, the pacifist and the warrior. The younger man is more than happy to oblige to this. Eugeni was one of the bare few who viewed him with kindness when he was nothing more than dirt.

Soon enough they found themselves within the resplendent halls of one of the local Imperial schools of sorcery. Shi has come here multiple times before in order to learn about a couple things. Sorcerous study is well prized in House Ledaal, and any member worth their salt should know the theories behind it, a couple spells and magic tricks even better. They come across a personal office of one of the lecturers, a man in perhaps his forties or fifties, with graying hair. Shi could see that this man is one of the professors that treated Eugeni well within its halls, and is seem to be well aquainted with his cousin. When he was addressed, he placed both of his hands on his cane and bowed. "Greetings, venerable sorcerer. It is an honor to meet someone such as you. I wish to learn the road to sorcery, as to bring glory to my House." Shi made sure that his voice isn't dripping with arrogance, but that of humility and respect. He practiced his tone of voice, his stature, and his facial expressions before a mirror many times until it could pass for perfection in his eyes. He raised his body up, and waited for the two have their conversation, and followed Gregor into the courtyard as they finished. He was to the side of Eugeni, slightly to his back, indicating that while he stands in the same Exalted glory as his older cousin, he views the other as greater than himself.

[Luminesa]

Eugeni - Teaching Moments Don’t Always Last Long

Eugeni and Shi were a bundle of opposites. Whereas the former had dressed in plainer traveling clothes, Shi had dressed as though he was giving a speech to the public. The latter was dressed in fanciful, spring-like clothing, giving him the appearance of someone who was both serious about their job and naïve about appearances. At least, Dr. Gregor seemed to think so. Eugeni was glad to see his younger cousin so excited to learn, and he nodded as his professor invited him to help.

In the courtyard were various other students who were resting, relaxing, and studying together. Most of them did not wear the elegant clothing of the two nobles and the professor, and a number of students took notice immediately. The Ledaal guards never left the premise around their two charges, knowing that such attention could become dangerous without warning. Eugeni did not seem to mind, and smiled as students came to watch the exhibition. Dr. Gregor seemed to eye them with a blaisé stare, as though he was used to students ogling anything that might seem remotely exciting.

“Very well, Shi. If you so wish to learn Sorcery, you shall have to show me first what you know.” The professor spoke slow and deliberate, his deep voice sounding like the lowest notes of a violin strumming warily. “...Eugeni, I suppose you can demonstrate to this green and curious crowd what Magic looks like?” His eyes flickered to his former student, who eagerly smiled and nodded.

Eugeni took a center stage for a moment, and he pulled a dagger from a holster at each side. As he did, the wind seemed to gather in them, and he whirled them around in his hands. Students “ooh’d“ and “aah’d“ at this display, but Eugeni acted as though they did not exist. He was only demonstrating for Shi. His gracious smile, however, and the fluid movements of his hands and body, looked almost like a dance. The trees seemed to chime along, the leaves floating to see the performer. The short, quick performance was over soon, and Eugeni whirled on a foot to create one more blast of wind. The students around him stood and clapped, while Dr. Gregor gave him a confident nod. He then turned to Shi. “...Now. Your turn, young man.”

[Finsternia]

Shi Enneal Iselsi-Ledaal

Shi watched the children around them gawking and gasping at the sight of air swirling around, twirling the leaves of trees and playing the sound of chimes from their branches. It was a simple invocation of the powers of the Air Aspect, though Shi isn't sure if it is the innate powers of an Exalted or the careful tamperings of Sorcery onto the fabric of reality. He stood behind Eugeni, smiling as he knows that his cousin would prefer to use his abilities to entertain and to inspire awe rather than to fight. As the older Ledaal finished his exhibition, a gentle clap came from Shi's hands. "Splendid work, Lordmaster... I can see that you've inspired smiles of joy from our audience once again."

He stepped forward as the lecturer called out his name, his hands to his cane as he closed his eyes. Shi might not be able to perform any sort of sorcerous deeds as of now but he could summon the magic of the Exalted within him. With gentle movements, his hands moved into an upward and sideways motion, as if like a rising wave. The solid cane within his right hand suddenly seperated itself into metallic fragments of a whip, and it followed his gestures slowly, as if its weight was gone and it was nothing but a weightless whip beneath calm waters. Ripples in the air were made visible as the whip trailed behind, and a stream of water is produced by the whip's end. The scent of fresh river water softly made itself known to the onlookers, as well as the gentle sound of lapping waves.

His anima manifested itself in a covert manner as Shi moved with the water and whip, as if redirecting the flow of a stream. The water would swirl around him, and then collapse into a surging river wave, before becoming a docile stream again. With the sound of waves crashing and the smell of fresh water came the sound of a hissing snake, becoming one with the waves as the waters underneath Shi's control became fiercer. It's smell became that of the stinging scent of the sea as a white serpent manifested itself and curled around the younger man. The snake made an aggressive hiss as the wace of water crashed behind Shi, giving a background of a violent storm at sea. The audience would think that the water would knock Shi down and splash themselves, but the whip within Shi's hand solidified itself once again as he tapped it down on the ground. It's crisp sound provoked a transformation to the ocean wave behind him, turning it into a flurry of snow that cascaded behind him, reminding them of early winter winds. The snow flew into the air, and then settled down upon the courtyard where it melted down to nothing.

Shi took a deep breath and exhaled, before he made a deep bow to the others. "I hope my presentation is satisfactory, everyone." He stands straight and looks at Eugeni and then at Gregor, nodding at both of them. "Lordmaster, professor. I couldn't perform sorcery on my own, however I hope that my Exalted abilities and magic proved to be more than passing to your eyes."

[Sao Nova Europa]

"How are we supposed to complete our tasks with 35% less funding?" Jiang Wei, one of the secretaries under the command of Yeiji Wang-Di, exasperatedly exclaimed. A lean man in early twenties with a gentle face, bright green eyes and long shining black hair, Jiang was perhaps the most trusted confidant of Yeiji. "Those damn Houses are appropriating taxation that should be going to our coffers."

"That's why we will have to be innovative in finding new sources of revenue," Yeiji replied. He had been tasked by his superior, the Vizier Bal Keraz, to find some way to increase the tax revenue. Not an easy task. Theoretically, Yeiji could just raise taxation or impose some new kind of tax but the problem was that with the disappearance of the Scarlet Empress and the weakening of the central government, such a tax would be hard to enforce in practice. "For a start, we need to better allocate the resources we already have. Cut back spending from useless departments and invest in infrastructure. Otherwise the unrest in the Satrapies will get out of hand. I estimate that it can cover around 2 to 3% of the 35% funding we need."

"What are we supposed to cut, my lord?" Jiang asked. "We've already had more than a few budget cuts."

"We can lower wages in our departments. It won't be popular and will make us some enemies in the officialdom but desperate times call for desperate measures."

"Wages are already down..."

"Not as much as they could... Also, do informally circulate that the department will turn a blind eye on bribes taken by officials. This will somewhat make up for the cuts in wages and will ensure that we don't make too many enemies..."

Jiang nodded in agreement. After all, bribes were already a somewhat common practice due to the budget cuts.

"Also we need to impose a new sales tax on shops in the capital. It will be about 4%."

"What about shops in the provinces?"

"We cannot really impose any tax there. On the capital, though, it is another case entirely. While in the Satrapies the central government may have weakened, on the capital we still have a great deal of control. We will be able to enforce such a tax."

"Business owners will surely protest at this decision of yours."

"After the first few of them have been beaten up by soldiers, we shall see if they will keep protesting... Bring me the reports of scribe Johanson."

Jiang went to the wooden desk and took some reports laid on it. He brought them to Yeiji. who examined them for a few, brief moments. "So..." the magistrate sighed as he saw the cost of those infrastructure projects; those were the most conservative estimates. "We could use some of the soldiers of the legion as free labor but.... it will be a tough task to get this accepted. Will try it though. Aside from that, we can make use of private contractors to aid us. Local richmen who can finance some of those projects in exchange of financial benefits and tax relief."

The magistrate turned to his secretary and told him to begin penning a letter for Bal Keraz.

Chief Magistrate of Finances

As ordered by your Excellency, I have undertaken to author a number of proposals to finance the infrastructure projects you've requested:

1. An imposition of a new sales tax of 4% on shops in the capital.
2. A decrease in wages in all departments of 2%.
3. Consideration of using part of the military as free labor.
4. Allowing private individuals to finance public projects in exchange for tax relief for two years and partial ownership (of a share of 25%) of expected revenue from the projects or from subsequent economic activity (that is, tax revenue) in the respective regions.

Jiang then was told to write down the estimated revenue those measures would bring. With that task done, Yeiji ordered Jiang to send the letter to the Vizier. If the Vizier had any questions, Yeiji asked Jiang to notify him immediately so that he could at once meet the Vizier.

[Luminesa]

Shi Enneal Iselsi-Ledaal

Shi watched the children around them gawking and gasping at the sight of air swirling around, twirling the leaves of trees and playing the sound of chimes from their branches. It was a simple invocation of the powers of the Air Aspect, though Shi isn't sure if it is the innate powers of an Exalted or the careful tamperings of Sorcery onto the fabric of reality. He stood behind Eugeni, smiling as he knows that his cousin would prefer to use his abilities to entertain and to inspire awe rather than to fight. As the older Ledaal finished his exhibition, a gentle clap came from Shi's hands. "Splendid work, Lordmaster... I can see that you've inspired smiles of joy from our audience once again."

He stepped forward as the lecturer called out his name, his hands to his cane as he closed his eyes. Shi might not be able to perform any sort of sorcerous deeds as of now but he could summon the magic of the Exalted within him. With gentle movements, his hands moved into an upward and sideways motion, as if like a rising wave. The solid cane within his right hand suddenly seperated itself into metallic fragments of a whip, and it followed his gestures slowly, as if its weight was gone and it was nothing but a weightless whip beneath calm waters. Ripples in the air were made visible as the whip trailed behind, and a stream of water is produced by the whip's end. The scent of fresh river water softly made itself known to the onlookers, as well as the gentle sound of lapping waves.

His anima manifested itself in a covert manner as Shi moved with the water and whip, as if redirecting the flow of a stream. The water would swirl around him, and then collapse into a surging river wave, before becoming a docile stream again. With the sound of waves crashing and the smell of fresh water came the sound of a hissing snake, becoming one with the waves as the waters underneath Shi's control became fiercer. It's smell became that of the stinging scent of the sea as a white serpent manifested itself and curled around the younger man. The snake made an aggressive hiss as the wace of water crashed behind Shi, giving a background of a violent storm at sea. The audience would think that the water would knock Shi down and splash themselves, but the whip within Shi's hand solidified itself once again as he tapped it down on the ground. It's crisp sound provoked a transformation to the ocean wave behind him, turning it into a flurry of snow that cascaded behind him, reminding them of early winter winds. The snow flew into the air, and then settled down upon the courtyard where it melted down to nothing.

Shi took a deep breath and exhaled, before he made a deep bow to the others. "I hope my presentation is satisfactory, everyone." He stands straight and looks at Eugeni and then at Gregor, nodding at both of them. "Lordmaster, professor. I couldn't perform sorcery on my own, however I hope that my Exalted abilities and magic proved to be more than passing to your eyes."

Eugeni - The Meaning of Exalted

Eugeni turned back to hear Shi’s claps, the clapping that mattered most to him. He gave him a tender smile and a soft, “Thank you, dear cousin.” He wondered how Shi would perform for his professor. Shi was the same age that Eugeni was when he had attended the university, and he had worked hard to prove his worth as an Exalted. As the older cousin stepped back, he murmured a silent prayer for his younger cousin’s performance. Dr. Gregor, in the meantime, gave a nonplussed look, watching with bored anticipation. Eugeni had been one of his best students, but he figured that the older Ledaal was one in a million students. Shi might be good, but he did not set his expectations high for such a young Mage.

Yet as he began his own performance, Dr. Gregor leaned forward to watch his Anima. He had formed the powerful waters, and had tamed them into a vicious, long-bodied snake. The boy’s own movements were graceful, much like his older cousin’s own, and he had deliberately transformed his cane into a whip. “...Hmm...” The Professor made a grunt under his breath, while other students watched with awe. The smell of salt water filled the air, the tension rose, and everyone seemed to hold his or her collective breaths. Then, the waters collapsed in a majestic wave. Several of the students jolted back as the Magic came to such a sudden stop, but several jumped to their feet to clap, as soon as the Anima disappeared. They were not used to seeing the Magic of an Exalted being performed so freely.

Eugeni also clapped, walking to Shi’s side and putting an arm around his shoulder. “...You did well, Shi. You’ve learned so well how to control your powers...” he whispered. Yet as he finished speaking, he turned to the professor to hear his critique. Shi would notice that Eugeni looked at his former teacher with utmost respect, and even seemed to become a little pink in the face, as Dr. Gregor turned his stern gaze to both young men. “...Dr. Gregor, he has studied hard under my tutelage. He is a wonderful student, and he is very eager to please...” he interceded.

“I can tell.” The professor walked with heavy, steady steps to the position of the younger boy. He looked him over once again, and then glared into his eyes. A leaden pause fell over everyone watching, including Eugeni. The Ledaal heir massaged Shi’s shoulder with his hand, assuring him that no matter what the professor said, he did well. And yet the teacher chose his words carefully. “...You have potential. As an Exalted, you shall be successful. But you say that you know...no sorcery?...That shall be easy to fix, as I can see your cousin’s skill and attention to detail in you. But you have your own focus. That shall aid you in learning. But we will move somewhere...less populated.”

The professor turned his back from the two students, walking back toward his office. However, he did have a small training area behind his office, a little grassy area with a tall, iron fence. Few people had entered the area, and it was mostly empty, save for the short blue grass and a pearly pond. The professor sighed and took off his jacket as he entered the area, and he placed the garb on top of a lion statue guarding the door. “...I want to see you...alongside Eugeni. You seem to enjoy dancing as a part of your routine. So does he. But you must show your own individuality, even more so, for me to teach you. Both of you can use your Animas, but I want to see your own routines. Shi, you shall go first,” he instructed.

[Parcia]

Yang

He disliked sleeping in beds. Years of living hard on the land and among the dunes ruined his ability to sleep on a soft mattress.

He had slept in the loft above the stables, prefering the sounds of his horse below him to lul him to sleep. Still, he slept barely a few hours. He spent most of the early morning tinkering with his gear. His project was to attack a sort of magnified optical device to his firelance.

Its rifled barrel and good quality of construction gave him a range of 150 yards, and with practice he could hit targets at that range. His problem with it arose that he couldnt see his targets as well.

He got the inspiration from the sight on a telescope. Its was inly, roughly speaking, a simple tube with two lenses. It took some time to paint a simple post, to give him some center point he could zero the optic on.

Then came zeroing it with the barrel of the rifle. This required him to finish the mount, one that nounted to the side of the Firelance's wooden body.

As the sun rose, Yang smelt of fire salts, smoke, and sweat. Having veen summoned by a Savant, he dusted him self off and didnt bother cleaning him self up. He would enter the hall, im his open shirt with sleeves rolled up, pants dusted with spent firesalts and metal dust. He would bow to both Zara and the Inquisitor before finding a seat.

[Imperialisium]

The Main Hall

Zara Azairya Vai declined her head in respect, as etiquette demanded, to Strauch. Her chin lifting back to its forward position after a short second. Her eyes swiveled to see the approaching form of Yang. Dirty and dusty. She smelled Firesalt on his body. I'm surprised Mephisto hasn't reclaimed that errant firewand yet. The notion of the spirit guardian of the House Vai vaults caused her to involuntarily purse her lips before returning her gaze back at Strauch. Lazily waving a hand over to Yang where food and drink was brought to him.

"Inquisitor Captain Strauch, Kensei, a pleasure to have a member of the Inquisition present...," Not really, "...I take it you were tasked to conduct an investigation into the demise of my late father and mother?" Why else would you be here. Mei knows the Law and the rules that my father set and I have not changed.

Bel Keraz

Keraz, The Imperial Exchequer, was a wizened man of arithmetic and the fine skill of accounting. Keraz', even while arthritis was appearing in his bone, and scalp whitening into progressively silver white strands, was a man of sound mind. Sharp for mathematics and unyielding in his devotion to keeping the Imperial coffers in good order. One of the heads of the Imperial Government and trusted advisor to Her Imperial Majesty. Wherever she may be. The thought of the Empress abnormally long absence troubled him deeply. The Imperial system was designed to allow for temporary absences. But she'd been gone over thrice the time that it should be for her typical sojourns across Creation.

"Your Excellency. Dispatch for you." The voice of a courier snapped Keraz out of his ponderous stupor. The old man blinked on a wrinkle lined face. His skin may be blotching with every year and his voice more hoarse. But his eyes bore all the precision of his youth. The Exchequer held out his gnarled fingers. Worn by years of writing and fine tuning of measurements, weights, and calculating apparatus. The courier bowed deeply as he presented the dispatch. Feeling the dry texture of the paper on his palm, Keraz nodded in respect to the Courier who bowed while stepping backwards until he crossed the threshold out of Keraz spacious office, which upon looking around he seemed to realize for the first time. It was the size of a large apartment in the Imperial City. His mighty redwood desk emblazoned with inset figures bearing weights and measures bearing ingots and coin. A pair of Legionnaires belonging to the Vermillion Legion stood silently, resolute sentinals, in their eponymous named armor.

Breaking the waxen seal Keraz scanned its contents with well practiced ease. His ability to speed read undiminished as much as his eye sight. Turning to his right Bel spotted a young woman working at a smaller desk. Her job was to copy notes and file important matters in Keraz personal scriptorium. Disseminating his directives and missives and so forth.

"Yeiji again."

The young woman, scarcely out of her teens, looked up from her focused penmanship. Placing down her stylus neatly. The young woman noodded politely, "Chief Magistrate Yeiji is very industrious."

"And competent."

"He takes that efficiency from you Your Excellency." Keraz laughed. That was unlikely. Keraz himself was surprised at his appointment to the Empress Exchequer. Quite frankly for years he imagined it was just so the Empress could be less bothered by administering the Imperial Purse herself and so appointed others in her place to do so. At least until, forty years ago, she confided that she was never one for numbers. Now wasn't that quite a thing to hear. The Scarlet Empress, not one given to arithmatic.

"He takes his alarming efficiency from inborn insight. The Gods blessed his mind with sharp wit. But perhaps to sharp in his drive for results. Do you know the current tax on sales in the Imperial City?"

"2% on weekly income."

"Correct. 6% while doable is a steep incline. This is in addition to decreased wages, already. Here." Keraz held out the missive. The young woman rising to quietly bow before taking the dispatch. Reading it carefully.

"The Imperial military will tolerate such a thing for a short time. Sure, that part is doable." said Keraz as he straightened his old spine. The woman nodded. "Do you know current realm expenditures as of last fiscal year?"

"37 million Koku?"

"Yes. Rather low considering a decade ago the Imperial Purse paid out 65 million Koku."

"But isn't that good?"

Keraz scoffed, "Normal circumstances yes. That would be an impressive margin of income. Ten years ago the Imperial Purse took in the equivalent of 104 million Koku. Now? Guess."

She lowered the paper in thought, "95?"

"Lower."

"80?"

"44 million as of last year. The biggest drop yet."

"But we still have a surplus."

"Yes but only for underfunding various departments, projects, and much of that is to keep the soldiers and sailors paid, equipped, and housed. We've been borrowing from the Great Houses and other Counting houses on Jade Bonds for the past two years to maintain enough of a margin incase of catastrophe."

"What do you plan to do?"

"Well Yeiji is more or less right. Current state of affairs we need to have the Houses, should they be keen on reaping more of their holdings income, be responsible for the financial void their create. Send a missive to the Great Houses. As for Yeiji. I want him here for an appointment as soon as possible to hear his ideas in greater detail."

The young woman placed the dispatch on Keraz desk and bowed. "Right away."

Soon a dispatch was sent back to Yeiji.

By Order of the Imperial Exchequer
Chief Magistrate Yeiji has been Summoned on this day of our Realm for a meeting of import. His attendance is mandatory by dusk.

Stamped
Office of the Empress Exchequer

[Union Princes]

The Main Hall

Zara Azairya Vai declined her head in respect, as etiquette demanded, to Strauch. Her chin lifting back to its forward position after a short second. Her eyes swiveled to see the approaching form of Yang. Dirty and dusty. She smelled Firesalt on his body. I'm surprised Mephisto hasn't reclaimed that errant firewand yet. The notion of the spirit guardian of the House Vai vaults caused her to involuntarily purse her lips before returning her gaze back at Strauch. Lazily waving a hand over to Yang where food and drink was brought to him.

"Inquisitor Captain Strauch, Kensei, a pleasure to have a member of the Inquisition present...," Not really, "...I take it you were tasked to conduct an investigation into the demise of my late father and mother?" Why else would you be here. Mei knows the Law and the rules that my father set and I have not changed.

"Yes." Strauch confirmed. He reached into his bag and pulled out the scroll that he had show Lady Mnemon yesterday night. "I hope you had enjoyed your party last night."

He gave the scroll over to Lady Zara so she can read the content for herself. With so many signatures and stamps, its hard to deny the urgency the Inquisition placed on this investigation.

"We all know that foul play was involved in their deaths," the samurai grumbled, "What the Inquisition wants to know is whether or or not sorcery was involved."

[Bentus]

Mei Mnemon
Vai Estate, the Imperial City

---

As streams of light from the morning sun began to creep onto Mei’s sleeping features, she felt the first vestiges of wakefulness beginning to rouse her from a dreamless night. The slivers of sunshine creeping in between the curtains cast their lines across her pale features, while just enough illumination slipped in to allow her silvery hair to frame her shifting expression. Turning beneath her sheets, the woman’s eyes slowly flickered open at the disturbance. Blinking away her residual drowsiness, Mei froze as something immediately felt off about her surroundings. Frowning in confusion, it took her a moment to realise that the room she was in wasn’t her own.

All at once, memories of the night before came flooding back to the forefront of the mage’s mind. Bolting upright as a jolt of terror gripped at her chest, Mei ripped herself awake as she desperately reached a hand between her mattress and bed frame. As soon as she felt the solid object that she had frantically hid there the night before, her shoulders slumped in relief. Sighing as her worst fears failed to be realised, Mei carefully pulled out the forbidden text as if to confirm its presence with her own eyes. Pushing herself upright into a seated position, she gingerly removed the wrapping that she used to try and obscure the book’s cover from any prying eyes.

Staring at her prize, Mei ran her finger over the rough and weathered leather bindings. A faint smile cracked onto her lips as she still felt a giddy sensation at holding a copy of the necronomicon in her hands. To be caught even bearing a few transcribed pages outside of the Heptogram’s most restricted libraries would doom her to a lifetime of penance and dishonour, while the ancient chapters between her hands would almost certainly warrant her death. And yet, that almost made her rebellious pursuit of its secrets all the more thrilling. Mei’s hand paused at the edge of one of the divots that marred the book’s face. She frowned at the broken rut.

Running a finger along it, she could immediately tell the difference between it and the rest of the cover. Its surface felt broken and torn, violated at some point in the past and left like some thinly scarred wound that pockmarked the outside of the text. Something had clearly once been embedded within those wounds - gemstones perhaps, that had been torn from the cover by some greedy thieves who had undoubtedly failed to grasp the far greater value of the ink stained pages within. Mei sighed at the thought. She could only imagine what the necronomicon must have looked like in its prime, before the passage of time had left it weathered and worn.

The sound of footsteps outside her door caused Mei’s head to shoot up defensively, her eyes narrowing towards the voices of servants rising to tend to their morning chores. Frowning as she remembered her instructions to meet with Lady Zara for breakfast, the mage wrapped her book up protectively once more, before slipping it into her robes. There was no way that she could have left it in her room, not while the Inquisitor was tearing it apart in his idiotic search. But it would also be foolish of her to just carry it around in the open, where there was always risk that she could be found out. Shifting herself with a practiced ease from the bed to her wheelchair, Mei decided that she could be excused a minor delay to go to her room before the main dining hall. She could say that she needed to fetch fresh clothes for the semi-formal gathering, especially since it was the first time she would be meeting the recently-restored exiled Dynast of the Vai household. That would also give her more than enough time to return the necronomicon to its hiding spot.

---

A servant opened the doors to the Main Hall, pulling them aside to allow for Mei to wheel herself into the expansive hall. She was dressed in a pair of neat robes that befit her role and station, while her straight hair hung down to her shoulders. Initially coming to a stop a few steps away from the table, the mage offered the two dynasts of the House a curt bow - or at least a close approximation of it as she leaned forward in her chair.

“Master Zara, Lord Yang. I apologise for my tardiness, I’m afraid that I was unable to sleep in my bed chambers last night.” Moving herself to her own position at the table, Mei shot a pointed look towards Strauch. “Sir Inquisitor, I trust that you satiated your curiosity?”

[Sao Nova Europa]

"My Lord, a letter from the Office of the Empress Exchequer!" the courier said as he handed over the letter to Yeiji. The magistrate had been looking over some papers detailing costs of various projects when the letter came. He at once grabbed it and broke the waxen seal, opening it and reading its' contents. The look on his faced turned from a sour expression of worry to a wide grin. The Vizier wanted to meet him.

"Excellent!" he stated. He did not really care all that much for the old man, truth to be told, but he did care a lot about the opportunity such a meeting presented, especially for his image. The image of the industrious, hard-working and ingenious official. Constructing such an image was vital for climbing up the bureaucratic ladder and gaining support among government circles. 'Image is everything,' he remembered a merchant telling him in one of his travels when he was younger. This meeting offered him a chance to further cultivate this image.

Yeiji took some coins from his purse and handed them over to the courier. "For your trouble," the magistrate said as the courier bowed in gratitude.

"Thank you, my lord. I am just doing my duty. No need t-"

"I insist," Yeiji replied. "The only thing I ask in return is that you remember how generous I've been with you." Yeiji knew that building up clientelistic networks was of the essence; the powerful official, he in this case, would grant some benefit to the client and the client would subsequently be obliged to offer his support to the official. The courier could later on be used to notify Yeiji of some delivery or be ordered to carry out some other task.

With the money in his pocket, the courier thanked once again the bureaucrat and rushed outside the office. With the man gone, Yeiji ordered one of the servants in his office to call Jiang Wei there at once. A few minutes later, the secretary had arrived. "You've requested my presence, Magistrate?"

"Yes. I want you to come with me to meet with Bal Keraz."

"Are you sure about this?"

"Yes. I also need you to find the necessary papers detailing precisely the financial benefits of the measures I proposed - you shall bring them with you."

Jiang nodded in agreement.

-------------------------------------------------------


Two hours later, Yeiji and Jiang arrived at the spacious office of Keraz. Both men at once bowed deeply before their superior. "Greetings!" they said in unison.

"Your Excellency," Yeiji said, "I am honored to meet you." He paused for a brief moment. He put on a smile and introduced Jiang. "This is my personal secretary, Jiang Wei. I took the liberty to bring him with me in this meeting, since he carries important documents detailing precisely the benefits of my proposals. You will find him to be an asset in our conversation."

"Your Excellency," Jiang was quick to say. "I am pleased to meet you." He bowed a second time, this time with even more reverence. He tried his best to hide his nervousness at meeting Keraz. It was the first time he was meeting in person such a high-ranking official. Yeiji had told him not to worry but Jiang couldn't help it. He forced a slight smile, trying to look somewhat friendly and hoping that he would make a good impression.

[Acerbez]

Rouzen Terpischora,
Terpischora Manse, Dawn.

"Somebody! Help!! Please, somebody!" the voice rang out just after a tray of dishes holding porridge, hot water, and cloth collided into the floor. The servant was a young woman who had be consigned to manage Izadoro's ailing condition by tending to his care and needs throughout the night and day. After their return from the Cynis Manse, Luciano was all but too drunk to heed the updated conditions of his second. The cold sweats and feverish temperatures along the inability to eat. Having forgone any attempts to consume food after the festival's display. The once proud and resolute dynast was now reduced to a crumpled shamble of groaning discomfort and weakness. The night only brought terrors whenever he slept and he was breaking his own body by resisting this torment. A rock and a hard place of needing rest to recover but the same rest being haunted by the curse of his Cousin.

Just 6 rooms away down the same hall, Rouzen had slept like a baby. Shaking off the events of the previous night involving Zychere and House Vai, She had snuck off after observing the events with great joy. Leaving both Luciano and Daesh behind to console their pompous aristocracy in decadence. A beam of light shown through a nearby window and glared off the case of the Gloria Inmortuae. Rasing halfway from her luxurious bed roll of down, Rouzen's eyes were half open as she yawned, the ruckus of rushing servants moving to pamper the sick Izadoro. Peering at the door for but a moment and then her clothes and gear that rest on a manikan. The 2 polished hilts of the shorn twin's protruding from their sheath.

Perhaps another day... Maybe 2, Rouzen thought to herself. She was fond of the idea that Izadoro was descending and falling apart so quickly. If time was truly on her side then she could certainly complete her curse and bind him before the expedition North took place. Falling back down upon her pillow, Rouzen hummed to herself lightly. The urgency of servants doing their utmost to save her cousin adlibbing her lullaby.

House Terpischora would be hers...

[Finsternia]

Shi Enneal Iselsi-Ledaal

Without a word, Shi turned his back to the crowd in order to follow the pair of older Exalted. His eyes, ears, mind and heart are keen when it comes to observation and deduction, and he could see that within Eugeni's eyes is a flame of ever burning respect and admiration for the even older sorcery instructor. He could also see that Gregor himself seems to be an upright Dynast, an honorable and honest man who seeks to enlighten the few who wished to seek the secrets of sorcery. From the facial expressions of the majority of the students back in the courtyard, it seems that they weren't Exalted, and through the study of sorcery could they only repay their Houses back. Since childhood they were groomed to be destined men and women, Chosen of the Elemental Dragons but failed to receive recognition. Either they become statesmen as Patricians, or be swept away as second rate citizens or even worse. Shi held respect for those people, clinging onto the last bits of hope that they could find and make themselves still able to serve their House and the Realm.

Soon they found themselves upon private training grounds. It was smaller than the courtyard of course, but it provided a sense of security and privacy, as rare as it is for the Dragon-Blooded. With his hands to his cane, Shi's eyes darted quickly, taking the scenery into view as fast and as covertly as he could. As Gregor gave him a couple pointers, he nodded to him before voicing his own opinions. "In my own defense, Sir Gregor, my style is to incorporate the properties of water into my fighting style. It isn't just for show. For example, graceful movements and fluid swaying makes me quite agile on my toes..." His arms swayed as if they're seaweed dancing to water currents before his outstretched hand immediately struck out, hitting empty hair beside Gregor's head. With such strike came the sound of crashing waves, almost as if Gregor has just evaded a tidal wave. "Or my blows could be as swift and devastating as a surging flood. This kind of technique attunes me even more into the essence of the Water Dragon, and bolsters my spirit as an Aspect of Water. Still at times, graceful with gentle movements, yet hiding earthshattering strength behind quick strikes. That is the essence of Water." His voice brimmed of confidence, confidence in his craft and understanding of his own strength.