The College of Winterhold [Hall of Attainment]

Aernd Vidstus

Jobakir

Location: Dorm Room
Objective: Enter the Hall of Elements

Jobakir opened his eyes slowly as he heard the murmurings and shuffling of others outside his door. The day had begun for them. However he had been awake for an hour or two meditating. It was a habit he picked up on since childhood and felt it helped him focus on what's at hand and to help him stay calm. He was already bathed and was already dressed in the robes he was given upon arrival. "I guess it's time to head to the first class," he thought as he slowly stood up, stretching as he straightened himself up. He walked towards a small table that had his weapons on it. After making sure they were on comfortably yet securely, he walked out the door and out into the courtyard.

As he walked he observed some of the students that were already out there. Some were reading, some were talking, some were enjoying being in the sunlight...but as Jobakir walked by them, he could literally feel the disdain in their eyes as they stopped their actions and stared at him. It didn't bother him in the least though, as he was used to being gawked at and treated like a disease-ridden skeever. Granted, there were very few of his kind in Skyrim (and even fewer here at the college) but their treatment of him without even knowing him seemed a little too much. "One day, they all will see that we are just as important as they are," he thought as he made it to the door to the Hall of Elements and silently walked in.

Already there were some students inside and one that seemed to be an elder, assuming him to be the teacher. He noticed the features of them both and remember that they were Aernd and Sadarys, remembering them from the tour/orientation. As he gazed around the room, his eyes stopped on a table filled with different foods that looked so good that his stomach started growling. He walked towards the table and grabbed a couple of sweet rolls, an apple, and a cup of tea. He found a nearby seat and sat down, his tail sticking out behind the chair as he did so. He quickly ate the sweet rolls and picked up the apple, using a claw to cut slices out of the apple before eating them.

Durzsha gra-Malol

The Orismer twisted her body, glancing in the mirror so she could see how these school robes fit her. Durzsha's brow furrowed with annoyance. The robe was rather loose fitting, and as a result, they hid the hard muscles in her shoulders, something that she was fairly proud of. She sighed; there was nothing that could be done about it really. She tucked her hammer into her belt, then reached for her gauntlet. For a moment, she simply stared at it, being flooded with memories of her childhood. She hadn't been home in years, and she missed her mother dearly, but she also had no intention of returning. She pulled the armor on, along with another gauntlet she'd made recently in a similar style, and glanced around her room, searching for anything else she might need. Her room was fairly sparsely decorated, with the most notable objects being various complex metal statues she'd made. Durzsha briefly considered bringing along some paper to write notes with, but decided against it - the class was said to be more hands on.

She strolled out into the Hall of Attainment, and began to make her way to class. She was aware that there was still plenty of time left before the class began. There was really no reason why anyone would be rushing through the hallways right now. A second later, she was proved wrong. Durzsha was knocked sideways as an older Dunmer shoved past her, racing as if being chased by a cave bear. She glared at him, taking note of his student robes and red hair. What was his deal? She pulled herself off the ground, feeling a slight flush of embarrassment at being so easily pushed around by another. She would have to work on her balance next time she trained.

The Orsimer strode after the Dunmer, moving faster now that she had a reason to get to class earlier. She entered the Hall of Elements, and rather than marvel at the architecture or at he table of food waiting for them, she walked straight up to the Dunmer, and folded her arms across her chest. Honestly, Durzsha would have preferred to just tell him off straight up for knocking her over, but she was also aware that just outright yelling wouldn't do her any favors. It never did really.

"Don't you think you should be a bit more considerate of others when going on crazy sprints?" She addressed him in a mild tone, hoping that she came across as making a polite suggestion, rather than being accusing.

Valillia

Valillia awoke in the cave she had stumbled in the night before. Her robes were in a heap on the floor, with the tip of the dagger sticking out of them. She swung her legs over and while sitting cross legged, picked up the blade and examined it. The Elvish craftsmanship had been that of her fathers before he was killed in the Thalmor War. It had been the last thing he made and the only connection she still had with him. When she held the the blade in her hands, it helped her to remember the face of her father. She sheathed the dagger and stood up, gazing around the small enclosure she noticed the sun starting to peak into the cave. Valillia bent over and lifted her robes off of the ground. They were cold but that was no bother to her, she had not been cold for a while now. She slipped into them and hid the dagger inside of her robes. She would throw her hood over her face and make sure it was concealed. With this she would make her way out of the cave, and begin the final trek to Winterhold.

In reality, the trek had been fairly short in Valillia's opinion. Which was fine she just figured it was going to be longer. The walk was nothing compared to her travel from Solitude to Whiterun, that was just terrible. She stopped at the edge of town just before entering, and patted the dagger at her side. Adjusting the hood one final time before entering, there could be no mistakes this time, and she knew that. Finally stepping into the city bounds, she walked at a hurried pace, trying to get through before any of the Nordic men that lived here said anything to her. The bridge to the College was upon her before she knew it. and again she stopped. This time it was to stare at the large seal of the eye, she wished she had gotten more time but she had heard footsteps behind her and she was off again. She walked a little slowly while crossing the more perilous parts of it, but eventually she made it acrossed.

Walking through the entrance she took everything in. The snow laying across the courtyard, some students praying to a statue, and a foolish Dunmer pushing an Orc. "This won't be good," she whispers to herself. She followed the Orc from a distance as she chased down the Dunmer who appeared to head into the main hall. She hurried and managed to slip in the door as it was closing. Standing from a distance she watched as the Orc confronted the Dunmer. Moving alongside the edge of the chamber she stood next to a window as she waited for the class to begin.

Astral Faeire
First Impressions are Critical

Astral rolls out of bed, hitting the floor and getting jolted awake. "Wha- huh?!" She disentangles herself from the blanket, standing and stretching out to her full height. This makes her bang her hands against the low ceiling, drawing a sharp breath in annoyance. She looks around the room, spotting her new robes on a chair, gasping as she remembers what today is.

"That's right! It's my first day of class! No more sleeping in shabby inns, I'll have a dorm at the College!" She twirls in excitement, shivering in the pre-dawn air. "Hopefully it's better insulated against this Northern chill."

She quickly throws on her robe, belting it tight and securing her knife. Next come her gold boots and gauntlets, certain to be a rarity in the school, and her large gold ring. It doesn't really fit without the gloves, but it hadn't been meant for her hand, exactly. She takes a minute to style her hair, making it smooth in back and ruffled just so in front, before pulling up her hood. Confident that she'll look her best on her first day, she leaves the Frozen Hearth and steps out into the city itself.

She is immediately hit with a cold gust of wind, knocking her hood back and mussing up her hair, leaving snowflakes clinging to her eyebrows. She sighs, pulling her hood back up and heading off for the College at a brisk pace. She heads across the bridge, careful not to slip, and approaches the Hall of Elements. She pushes open the doors, barely containing her excitement. "I'm he~ere!" The doors slide shut behind her as she hurries forward, apparently the last to arrive.

"Oh, I do hope I'm not too late. You know how the weather can be out there. ...is that food for everyone?" Distracted by the breakfast table, she grabs a plate and loads it with sweet rolls, making sure not to get any of the sticky sweet topping on her new robes.

Jobakir

Location: Hall of Elements
Objective: N/A

As he finished his tea, Jobakir took notice of the new arrivals to the class. The first was an Orc female that stood near Sadarys and talked, noticing that she seemed perturbed by something. Did he wrong her in some way? It was one thing this Khajiit knew...do not anger an Orc! However, that got him thinking. What was an Orc doing in a college for mages? Most Orcs (the ones he knew, at least) prided themselves on combat and being physically dominant. It also surprised him to see a female Orc. Sure they existed, but this was the first time he saw one in the flesh before. "Intriguing," he thought as he finished his cup, "Maybe I should keep my eye on her to see how she does."

His eyes roamed the room and settled for a moment on a Wood Elf female near a window, who seemed to shy away from the attention of others. There looked to be something not quite right with this one, as her skin seemed to be lighter-skinned than others of her kind. Was she sick...or is it something else? His curiosity was piqued by this and made a mental note to talk to her, as well. After all, maybe she would need help with her situation one day.

As he was lost in thought, the doors opened quickly to reveal a nice-looking High Elf walking in, cheerfully apologizing for being late. She quickly headed to the table to grab some food, apparently not noticing he was there. He placed the apple core in the trash nearby and reached for an orange this time. He looked up at the lady that was still filling up her plate. He slowly started peeling the orange with a bare claw and cleared his throat to let her know he was near before he spoke. "Not to worry, miss," he said clearly, trying to not give her a fright, "I think the class should be starting soon." He threw the peel away and started eating the fruit piece by piece.

The College of Winterhold [Hall of Attainment]

Aernd Vidstus

Astral Faeire
Class is in Session

"Not to worry, miss. I think the class should be starting soon." A kindly Khajiit offers words of encouragement as he eats his food. Astral nods to him, murmuring thanks through a mouthful of food. She doesn't have long to talk, or eat, as the professor slams his book shut and announces the beginning of class. She pulls a handkerchief from her pocket as the class gathers before the professor, wiping off any crumbs or icing from her face and gloves.

The professor, Forrlaf, seems like a nice fellow, if a little long-winded. Astral rolls her eyes at his comment of Elven aptitude for magic. It was a rather tired stereotype, but she suspects she'll hear it repeated often here. Her disdain is short-lived, however, once Forrlaf casts his Candlelight spell. "Oooh... shiny!" She grins as she watches the light orb follow his hand.

"Now, let's try this from scratch." Astral's grin fades at the professor's comment. From scratch implies no books to help them learn, and that he expected them to just learn the spell with no practice. College might be harder than she thought. She frowns, refusing to choke on the first day, and extends her right hand. "Light, warmth, radiance..." she mutters, vividly recalling Forrlaf's spell. She focuses on her hand, willing the light to appear.

Nothing happens.

She lets out the breath she hadn't realized she was holding, forcing herself to tune out everything else. Clearly this would require some effort and thought. It's not truly candle light. The spell provides no heat, only light. Steady, consistent light, not at all like a flickering candle. It's more like... the Northern lights! She opens her eyes, raising her hand again. She focuses on the magicka within, a steady thrum of power in her chest, willing it into her arm. She imagines the aurora borealis, localized entirely in her hand, and a soft blue glow spreads from her palm. The light gathets in a small orb, and with a flick of her wrist and a whisper of will, she tosses the light into the air.

She lets out her breath, feeling a little drained, but instantly perks up after seeing her success. "Ha HA! I did it! I cast the spell!" She waves her arm back and forth slowly, the little orb following lazily.

Durzsha gra-Malol

The Dunmer gave her what sounded like a fairly honest response, only the actual message it carried made Durzsha feel slightly uncomfortable. He was correct, in her opinion anyway, in saying that people shouldn't interfere with others. However, that statement wasn't one that should be taken too literally. It was more in the sense of dreams and ambitions - if someone wanted to prevent you from doing what you wished, then by all means, trample them out of the way. She didn't feel that it meant literally shove everyone who might be standing near you as you walk by out of the way.

"I wasn't harmed by your sprint." She said curtly. As if something as simple as that could hurt her! "But others could have been. Would it still be their fault if they couldn't get out of your way due to injury or something similar?" It was never any good to harm those who were already weak. However, Durzsha got the feeling that she could argue all day with this man - he looked as if he had many more years under the belt than she did, and if he hadn't figured that out by now, there was no helping him.

He introduced himself as Sadarys Mero, adding a little of his history as well. She could respect the fact that he had fought during the crisis, but being a Telvanni council member didn't mean much to her, being rather unfamiliar with what they did. In stark contrast to his introduction however, she simply said, "I'm Durzsha gra-Malol." She felt little need to acknowledge her father, nor did she feel any urge to try and impress Sadarys with her past feats.

Soon after this, her attention was quickly caught by the sound of something slamming. She reacted quickly to this, moving into a defensive stance and reaching for her hammer, only to realize that it was the professor starting the class. Durzsha hoped nobody had seen that, and followed the group to a more open area. The professor introduced himself as Forrlaf, and his introduction couldn't help but make her approve of him. His insistence upon everyone being equal here was something she appreciated, and she had a feeling she wouldn't be the only one, having spotted a Khajiit within the class as well. Of course, at the moment this was all just words - time would tell if Forrlaf truly meant what he said. He went on to explain the Candlelight spell, an Alteration spell. Durzsha frowned a little - she hadn't exactly done much in the realms of Alteration before, so this could be potentially a little difficult. However, she was determined to succeed at this, especially when considering that the spell was, while simple, rather useful to have. Having demonstrated the spell, Forrlaf quickly instructed them all to give it a shot. Again, this was something she approved of - she always found learning hands on worked better than reading theory on the subject.

Durzsha placed her left hand out in front of her, and took a deep breath, trying to feel her magicka inside her. She could feel it, this strange force that ran warm through her veins, an alien sensation, but still oddly comforting. When she felt ready to cast the spell, she opened her eyes, only to quickly become distracted by the tall Altmer woman waving her hand joyfully, a small ball of light following. How did she do that so quickly? Not wanting to be outdone, she again felt the magicka within her, and focused upon her hand. Forrlaf had said to recall 'warmth, light and radiance', so she summoned the mental image of a small candle, and tried to alter the world around her to the vision in her head. To her disappointment, nothing happened.

Deciding that she needed a stronger mental image, Durzsha tried again, this time thinking of the cooking fires that they'd had back home. Those fires had been warm and comforting, strong but not out of control. That was the feeling she'd gotten from Forrlaf's spell, and she tried to recreate that, but again, it was to no avail. She bit her lip in frustration, being vaguely aware of other people in the class casting the spell successfully. She would not be beaten on this! She could feel that she was almost warping reality to her will, but it just wasn't enough - she couldn't get a spark. That thought brought up the image of a flint, the scrape of metal upon metal, and how that movement summoned up the first initial sparks to bring a flame into being. At this, a light flared into existence above Durzsha's hand, shining brightly to start with, before dimming to a constant brightness. She couldn't help but smile a little upon seeing it above her hand. It wasn't nearly as strong as Forlaff's was, but she'd managed to do it, and for the moment she was content to watch it, a quiet sense of accomplishment filling her.

Jobakir

Location: Hall of Elements (in class)
Objective: Learn Candlelight spell

No sooner had the lady thanked him and he finished his orange that he saw the teacher motion for everyone to gather around him. Silently he made his way to the group, being careful not to get too close to anyone. After all, not everyone was a fan of his kind and the last thing he wanted on his first day of class was a confrontation with anyone. The teacher (now known as Forrlaf) began a fairly well-prepared speech to welcome them to the school. As Forrlaf mentioned how he would treat everyone equally, Jobakir seemed to soften a little. "Was he supposed to say that," he thought, "or is that what he truly believes?" He knew there were many who believe that way, yet the majority rule was that those of his kind (among others) were considered non-human enough to be looked down upon and made fun of. In this case, however, only time would tell if Forrlaf's words would ring true.

It was then that Forrlaf showed them all the Candlelight spell, a basic Alteration spell. As he watched the ball of light created float around, Jobakir was convinced that the spell would be fairly simple to imitate. If he could concentrate enough to create a wolf to fight for him, surely he could create a small ball of light. However, once he heard the words "from scratch", the confidence of the Khajiit was slightly shaken. Nevertheless he remained undeterred as he closed his eyes and slowly opened his left paw. He quietly concentrated on the ball of light that he was shown...on its brightness, its warmth, its serenity...

But nothing happened.

Feeling a little perturbed by this, he turned his back to the group and concentrated harder on his mental picture of the spell. Slowly, surely, he started feeling a slight warmth on his paw. It felt like he was holding his paw to a small flame. Before he could see what the source was, a squeal of glee came from behind him as the High Elf lady was the first to succeed in casting the spell. Her celebration was enough for him to lose his concentration. Shortly after that, the Orc lady was able to create one as well. "Maybe I need to think of something else," he thought as he stared at his empty paw.

Turning back around to face away from the others, he closed his eyes and tried to figure out what would help him conjure this light. But what could he think of that had light, warmth, and serenity? Fires were violent at times, candles weren't dependable...wait a minute! The sun! It was warm, bathed everything with a golden glow, and he remembered many times he'd take a small nap outside simply from sitting in the sunlight. He concentrated his magicka once more as his mind replayed those scenes in his head. This time, he was able to feel the warmth on his paw. The warmth he felt this time was different. It felt stronger and strangely comforting. Slowly he opened his eyes and looked down to his opened paw. There it was...floating a few inches or so above...the spell was a success! A wave of accomplishment washed over him as he started moving his hand around, watching the ball of light move with it. A smile crept across his muzzle as he turned back to the others, showing what he was able to create.

Eltruel Manirane
Hall of Elements, The College of Winterhold

Eltruel was among the first to get to class. He was an early riser and a midnight oil burner. No one could figure out when he finds the time to sleep, but he manages. He stood in a corner reading a book about the Aedra. He didn't care to partake in the awkward first day of class conversations around him. He held a cup of tea in one hand and the book in the other, concentrating on every word that he read. Eltruel often found himself burried in a book, or pondering the mysteries of of the esoteric.

His peace didn't last for long as more students and the professor trickled into the hall. He paid no mind to the elves and instead focused on the Orismer and Khajiit that wandered in. It wasn't every day that you see these races in a mage college, especially the Orismer, but it wasn't unheard of. They must possess some strong magical aptitude. Eltruel didn't have a tough time of passing the entrance exams, but he figured that they must have considering their heritage. He was impressed that they would even attempt to learn the Clever Craft.

The Orismer and a Dunmer seemed to have an issue brewing. It was only the first day, and his fellow students were already getting into spats. However, they handled them succinctly, as expected of a mage. If this were a group of warriors, he was certain that someone would be disembowled or missing a limb at this point.

Eltruel drained his tea cup before returning it to the table. The professor was stirred into action by a black haird man. He snapped his book shut and leaped to his feet, rangling in the students that were in the hall. Eltruel returned his book to his bulky satchel and gave the professor his attention. Professor Forrlaf went through the standard first day spiel: introductions, a history of magic, the usual. He seemed adamant about this hall being an equal playing ground for everyone involved, which was refreshing to hear.

The professor decided to start things off with a simple lesson. Probably to keep the less magically inclined from being discouraged, but more importantly, it would prove necessary for the upcoming lesson. Their task was to cast Candlelight, a simple alteration spell. Eltruel had been considering learning it to assist him in his late night reading. It would save him a bit of coin on buying candles. Professor Forrlaf instructed them on what to do. The rest was up to them.

Eltruel's eyes narrowed as he focused, right hand outstretched. He could feel the magika gathering in his being. He remembered the time that he nearly burned down an inn when practicing alchemy. The brilliance of the fire. The heat radiating from it. The fire was manageable, but boy, was the owner upset. A bright globule of light flickered into existence before expanding into an orb of soft light. Eltruel grinned. It was brought on by a combination of the memory and his success. He didn't doubt himself for a second.

He surveyed the room to see how everyone else was doing. The other students were showing varying levels of success. One in particular, an Altmer, displayed a child-like wonder at her feat. Eltruel was glad to see that the Orismer and Khajiit did well. He didn't want to ruin anyone's concentration, so he kept to himself, guiding his light around the room while awaiting further intruction from Professor Forrlaf.

Valillia could feel the slight hint of a chill whilst standing under the window. She stood silent while observing the other students mingle for the few minutes before class started. An Altmer made her way into the hall and straight to the table with food. Valillia watched as the Altmer gave no care for any of the other students as she began taking as many sweet rolls as could fit onto the plate. She will probably turn out to be some pompous jerk like they all are, thought Valillia.

Moving her eyes around she caught the Khajiit staring at her. Valillia gave a quick look out the window to check he was looking at her. Turning back around he was still looking. What a creep. Probably gauging the amount of coin I have. Oh well, she went back to observing the Altmer.

Valillia's growing obsession over the Altmer was stopped by the clap of a book slamming shut. She turned her head to stare at the source and it was a man who looked the part of the teacher. Valillia stepped away from her haven next to the window and got closer to the man to hear what he was saying. She approached to be able to hear what he said but still far away from the others.

The professor begin a short lecture about the merits of magic and how everyone in this room would be given a fair chance despite Merfolk's aptitude. It was a nice sentiment but we will see how it turns out with the Orc or Khajiit. The Khajiit was most likely only in here to get better at theft. He then went on to give a short summary of magic and give us our assignment, cast candlelight.

Valillia placed both of her hands in front of her and began to concentrate. She pictured the light and radiance of the moons. Their majesty always offering her sanctuary when she needed it. It took a few seconds but a ball of light popped into her hand. She gave off a short giggle. Surprised at her laugh she hurriedly looked around to check if anyone had heard it, satisfied she went back to the ball of light. Moving it between both of her hands before letting it drift up to above her head. After a minute of it existing it extinguished itself and ceased to be.

The College of Winterhold [Hall of Attainment]

Aernd Vidstus

Astral Faeire
Class Dismissed

Astral continues playing with her light orb while Forrlaf explained the difference between Alteration and Illusion. Alteration had been something of a specialty in her House, so she was well aware of what it was. To her surprise, the professor leaves after his little lecture, informing them that their next lesson is in a week.

"Well, I hope you all aren't trying to one-up me, because by the time next week rolls around, I'll have mastered that Candlelight spell better than the professor himself." Another student, apparently named Aernd, speaks up.

"Oh, not at all. Some people just learn faster than others, and it honestly depends on the spell." Her light extinguishes as she moves over to Aernd. "Why, I had the most dreadful time learning wards, but eventually I figured it out, and now I can cast wards with the best of them." She smiles, pulling her hood back and adjusting her hair. "Well, a lesser ward, at any rate. It's a pleasure, Aernd. I'm Astral."

Eltruel Manirane
Hall of Elements, The College of Wnterhold

Eltruel grew bored of testing out the spell. He waved away the ball of light, which disapperead in a wisp of smoke. He folded his arms as the professor began to speak. He explained the details of the school of Alteration and its uses. Eltruel rolled his eyes in disbelief. Did I sign up for the wrong course? Someone of his talent should be elsewhere.

The professor wrapped up the lesson, suggesting they work on using Candlelight comfortably. With a nod, he left. Eltruel let out a sigh. He was hoping that he would get the chance to learn magic that was challenging. If he wanted to learn how to cast such a low-level spell he could have purchased a manual from a merchant. The professor promised a surprise before he left. At least, this gave Eltruel something to look forward to. Before the day was over, he planned on leaving a letter for the Professor, asking for some sort of advanced placement.

Eltruel was just about to leave, when the black-haired man from earlier spoke, spouting nonsense. How exactly does he think he'll be able to surpass Professor Forrlaf? He couldn't even cast a stable Candlelight spell. It's so simple. Eltruel approached the Aernd to pose a question, but the ebullient Altmer stepped over. She shared some encouraging wisdom for the Imperial. Well that's one perspective to adopt.

"Astral? That's a peculiar name for an Altmer." Eltruel said. He didn't follow up on the statement as it was just a shared observation. He instead addressed Aernd, "Why did you chose to study the Clever Craft? I'm certain you would fare better in another field."

Eltruel raised an inquisitve eyebrow. He was genuinely curious about the man's motivation. He was obviously out of his comfort zone here. Eltruel was certain that the Imperial had the potential, but did he have the skill?

Jobakir

Location: Hall of Elements
Objective: N/A

As the others learned and displayed their Candlelight spells, Forlaff ended the class by explaining the difference between Alteration magic and Illusions. As the teacher spoke, he noticed Aernd's eyes staring at him for a moment. He ignored him for now as the teacher finally left, alluding to a surprise tomorrow. After Forlaff left, Aernd spoke to the others with a seemingly-haughty attitude before saying he was "joking". Then the High Elf lady spoke, introducing herself as Astral. Finally the Breton that had been in the room since the beginning spoke, though he seemed bored in the class.

After standing around for a couple of minutes, he decided to leave. He walked back towards the table but was quickly debating with himself. He needed to practice this new spell, after all, and there weren't many places dark enough yet. He grabbed another apple before retreating to a darker corner of the room. Sitting on the ground and getting comfortable, Jobakir concentrated on the spell, which lights up the Khajiit's visage from time to time. He did notice that it was becoming easier to cast. "Looks like I need to simply practice on this," he thought as he started eating his apple in the dark. He glanced towards the others from time to time, but kept working on his new spell.