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A/N: I know what those who lurk the RP corner are thinking. 'Hey? Isn't that an RP created by Aura Rift?' And, legit, yes, yes it is. This story was born from that RP. I swear, I have Aura Rift's permission (to create this story) and everything. If any of the mods have a problem with my claim, they can always ask Aura Rift.
Huh, but I never said anything on posting it on PC, just about if I publish it...
Heh. We'll burn that bridge when we get there.
But, yes, this is generally going to have parts of the same idea as Humanum Familiares, so, if you're in the RP, you got some spoilers that other people don't have. Maybe.
This is my Nation Novel Writing Month novel, to be honest. I kind of want to see how it would fly online, which is why I'm posting it here. Honestly, I think I would rather post it on fanfiction, but technically it's a fanfiction on a RP on a forums, so I don't really think it's going to fly. At all.
I honestly have no idea if this is the right rating. It's a fairly dark and gritty story and it'll get darker as thing progress. If it does get past 18, I will not blame any of the mods for taking it down. In fact, I would probably encourage that if someone can't handle...let's say...talks about rape, rape almost happening, and violence up to either Inuyasha or Full Metal Alchemist area, then turn around. Now.
And if just by saying that gets this story deleted, I honestly do not care. If any of you feel that I have crossed the line from 18, report me. Please.
Anyways, this your last chance on turning back. Well, perhaps not. At least, your last chance before the prologue...
I hope you enjoy Humanum Familiares.
Humanum Familiares Prologue
Professor Averstan grinned at the class. It was the day of the familiar summoning, a day that he very much enjoyed. Some students were even able to summon animals that may have been in different regions of the world, which is always great to see. They got a lot of different variety of animals, which really is amazing. "The incantation, everyone," said Professor Averstan, "is Summon Familiaris. A very basic incantation, but can be difficult to do. One by one, each of you will step up to the rune and state the spell. The rune will glow and your familiar will pop out! Let's hurry it along now; we don't be want to be the last class to finish this." In two different classes, they were doing the same thing. All of the sixteen years old were split into three different groups in order to summon their familiars; to make it faster. Our first hero was in Professor Averstan's class. Her name was Miharu Mizushima. She had straight, black hair that reached up to her shoulders as well as blank, black eyes. She was of Japoinese descent. Our second hero was in Professor Robus's class. His name was Daniel "Danny" Avery. He had curled fair hair that was in a very boyish like cut. He had bright green eyes that were very wide, innocent eyes. He was of Briton descent. Our third and final hero was in Professor Mirus's class. Her name was Fira Lumen. She had wavy, brown hair that reached up to the middle of her back. She had light blue eyes, almost as if they were white. She was also of Briton descent. All three of them walked up to the rune at the same time, they all chanted at the same time, and their familiars were summoned at the same time. Miharu's normally blank stare widened in surprise when a sixteen years old boy landed in the middle of the rune. This boy had straight blond hair and had narrowed brown eyes. The boy was American. His name was Lawrence Justice. Daniel's cocky grin vanished when a sixteen years old girl landed in the middle of the rune. This girl had long, red hair that curled at the end when it reached her shoulder. Her wide, blue eyes stared at Daniel in confusion. The girl was French-Canadian. Her name was Rubi Boudreau. Fira's happy smile twitched when a sixteen years old boy landed in the middle of the rune. This boy had shaggy, brown hair and smiling green eyes. The boy was British. His name was Riley Davids. All three of the mages kissed the three familiars at the same time. And at the same time, their contracts, as well as their fates, were sealed.
A/N: I already had chapter one made up, unlucky for you lot.
Chapter One
A weird light. A kiss. A searing pain in his left hand.
That is all Lawrence can remember.
Lawrence opened his eyes slowly, taking in his surroundings. He was in a fairly large room with white walls and a white ceiling. There was barely any furniture, only a bed and a dresser, as well as the pile of hay that Lawrence was sleeping on. There were no posters, no tables, no ornaments; nothing that described the resident's personality or interests. He also noticed a girl, Miharu, sitting on top of the plain white bed with plain white bedding. Miharu's black eyes stared into Lawrence's open ones.
"You are awake," Miharu stated. She slid off her bed, her bare feet touching the cold, marble floor. Her sleeping robes fluttered to the ground.
"Where am I?" Lawrence croaked.
"You are in the Tristen Academy of Magic," Miharu said. She spoke in monotones, which Lawrence found quite strange. "The world of Magia."
Lawrence's eyes widened as he immediately shot up. He felt nothing from getting up so fast, so he rose to his feet. "Are you screwing with me? Where the hell am I?"
Miharu smirked coldly. "No, I am not screwing with you. I just told you where you are. If you do not believe me, that is due to your own paranoia."
As soon as Lawrence's anger rose, it fell. He sighed, sagging slightly, rubbing his face with his left hand. He remembered the searing pain and glanced at his left hand. There was a weird design on it, almost like a seal. This convinced him of his situation.
"What is this? What did you do to me? How can I get home?" asked Lawrence, firing off questions at a rapid speed.
"The rune is the proof of a contract between you and me," Miharu answered. "The kiss I gave you sealed our contract. You are now my familiar. Many treat familiars as slaves. There are a few, a very small few, that do not. Lucky for you, I am one of those few. I summoned you from, I am guessing, Earth by using a summoning spell. No, I was not trying to get you in particular; I was only trying to summon my familiar. As far as I am aware, you cannot return home."
Lawrence could hardly believe it. Taken to a new world where magic existed, to others, not being much better than slaves…Lawrence planned to do what he normally did when he was thrust into a new environment; keep a low profile, learn the rules, and survive.
"What is your name?" asked Lawrence, curious.
Miharu bowed. "I am Mizushima Miharu or Miharu Mizushima as the Britons like to say. I am well versed in water and air magics, as well as runes and battling physically. And yours?"
Lawrence rubbed the back of his neck, a nervous habit that he had. "Name's Lawrence Justice. Um, I am fairly good at fighting."
Miharu nodded. "It is nice to meet you, Lawrence Justice."
"You too, Miharu Mizushima."
Miharu glanced at the hay. "If the furnishings are inadequate, I can always order a bed."
Lawrence chuckled slightly. "A bed would be amazing."
"I shall order one tomorrow after classes," Miharu stated. "I hope you do not mind sleeping on a pile of hay for one more night."
Lawrence shrugged. "If it's only for one more night, then it is fine."
Miharu nodded. "Tomorrow, I have quite a lot of classes. I should probably be heading off to sleep. I would suggest restricting yourself to my room for now and try to sleep now if you can. It would not do well to get lost."
Lawrence grinned. "I like sleeping a lot, so even if I get a lot of sleep, I can go to sleep easily."
Miharu nodded. "Good night." She laid on the bed and closed her eyes.
"Good night," Lawrence replied before falling back to sleep on the pile of hay.
-x-
Rubi blinked, her eyes opening. For some reason, the last thing she could remember was a searing pain on her left hand and…Rubi touched her lips. A kiss by some weird person. She glanced around, her eye twitching in anger as she mentally checked off all of the nude posters. Twenty-seven…Why was she bunking with a pervert?!
The pervert in question, Daniel, was currently snoring away on his bed. His shirt revealed his defined stomach as he scratched it absentmindedly. One of his legs was bent and his other leg was hanging off the bed, along with the arm that wasn't currently scratching his stomach.
Rubi scowled. Although under most circumstances, she probably would have thought that Daniel was good looking, being taken from her maths class in a bright, freaking light really pissed her off.
"Hey!" Rubi shouted. "Wake up!"
Daniel snorted, turning around and continued snoring.
Angry, and just a tad scared, Rubi walked up to Daniel and dragged him off of the bed. Daniel slammed onto the ground hard, wincing as he woke up.
"What the hell was that for?" Daniel whined. "I was in a middle of a good dream!"
"Most likely a wet dream," Rubi muttered.
Daniel scowled and snapped his fingers. Rubi cried out in pain and grabbed her left hand. It glowed a dark red as it caused Rubi pain in both her hand and in her head. As quickly as it came, however, it stopped. Rubi glared at Daniel as she tried to compose herself.
"What the **** was that?" she exclaimed.
Daniel narrowed his eyes. "You're in my world now, commoner. With just a thought of my mind, I can cause you horrible pain if you so much as diss me, got it?"
Rubi continued glaring, still pissed off, before trying to compose herself. That had hurt. "Got it."
Daniel nodded, cocky grin back in place. "Now, you're in the magical world of Magia at the Tristen Academy of Magic. I'm Daniel Avery, although you can just call me Danny. I'm a great fire mage and the best at physically fighting, no matter what that ***** Mizushima tells you."
Rubi made a mental note to find this "Mizushima" and become her friend. Best friend, even.
"Anyways, I summoned you, a commoner, as my familiar," Daniel stated. He smirked. "That means that you're my slave. For life."
Rubi's eyes widened in horrour. That was, quite possibly, the worst thing ever! Not only he was a pervert, but if she was his slave…With that painful design, he could ultimately push her to become his sex slave.
Daniel smirked grew, noticing the horrour dawning in Rubi's eyes. "Don't worry; you're not going to be my sex slave. For one, your boobs are too small and you are just not my type. I like 'em black, brown, and blonde, but not red for sure. Plus, I got other girls that would love to do me."
Rubi stifled a sigh of relief. Although one of her insecurities was her breast size, the fact that it helped her not become raped in such a strange place overrode any angry feelings she would have. However, she should still tread lighting around Daniel, just in case he would decide to rape her in retribution for anything. Which would be hard to do, actually. Rubi did have a huge temper and a lot of things seemed to set her off…
"No need to tell me your name," stated Daniel. "I don't need to know a commoner's name. I got classes in the morning, so I gotta get back to sleep. Oh, and if you tried to kill me in my sleep in order to be free, familiars practically die with their masters. Killing me is killing you."
Daniel got up from his position on the floor, ignoring Rubi's dawning horrour, and fell on the bed, quickly going to sleep.
Rubi stared at Daniel's sleeping figure, wide eyed, for a few minutes before groaning.
"I'm ****ed," she muttered. She fell back on her "bed", which was actually a pile of hay, before heading off to sleep.
-x-
"Are you awake? Are you awake now? Are you awake?"
Riley groaned, batting at the insane voice that was trying to wake him up. "Go 'way! I want to sleep!"
"You have to wake up, now."
The calm voice snapped him awake. Riley glanced at the teenager in front of him, Fira. The owner of the calm voice was gone; Fira's smiling face was the only one Riley could see. Seeing her face reminded him of the pain and the kiss. Riley blushed.
"Hello, miss," said Riley, ever the polite one. "Mind telling me where I am now?"
Fira nodded, grinning. "Sure! You're in the awesome place of Magia at the Tristen Academy of Magic! I'm Fira Lumen, Earth mage extraordinaire and I'm pretty good with potions as well as healing."
Riley blinked in confusion, his mouth dropping in shock. "Wait, WHAT? I live on EARTH? How did I get to this place called 'Magia'?"
Fira's smile lessened slightly. "That's my fault! Sorry! I was trying to summon my familiar and I summoned you! I guess that means you're my familiar now, huh?"
"What is a familiar? What are you talking about?" asked Riley, panicking just a tad.
Fira grinned. "A familiar means that you are my plaything. Wow, it'll be fun to have a new one!"
Riley blinked, not liking where this was going. "A….plaything?" Although, he really had to stop thinking dirty thoughts.
Fira nodded happily. "Yep! We're going to have so much fun together? What's my new plaything's name?"
"Uh, Riley Davids," he said before realizing that he practically just agreed to be her plaything.
Fira grinned, catching that at the same time as Riley. "Well, I got classes tomorrow, so it's time for me to go to sleep! G'night! Can't wait for us to play tomorrow!"
Riley blinked. "Uh, yeah. Alright."
Fira jumped into her bed and snuggled into her covers. After a few minutes, she was snoring quietly. Riley snorted to himself quietly. This would be weird. Really weird. Well, at least Fira seemed all right.
If it wasn't for the plaything thing.
Riley decided to think about it tomorrow and fell asleep on the hay pile.
Before anybody does ask me, I gave my full permission and support to this.
Very nice aswell, true to the RP in all ways, with the only major difference I can see is a name change to the headmaster aswell as new characters. Very good :)
A/N: And I thank you very much Aura Rift. ^^ There's a few changes, just to let you know. ;) Like the Familiar Showcase...
Chapter Two
Shh….Hush, little one. Everything is going to be okay now. I promise. Miharu tensed up, her hand gripping the covers tightly. Miharu sighed slightly, relaxing. She stared up at the ceiling, pondering. It had certainly been awhile since Miharu had that dream. Usually, she would have that dream during stressful circumstances; and that didn't include tests or anything of the like. Miharu wondered what had gotten her so stressed. It wouldn't be the fact that she summoned a human familiar; she honestly didn't care. Lawrence seemed alright, albeit confused and most likely homesick. Miharu took advantage of the fact that Lawrence was asleep and changed into her school uniform. She glanced at the clock under her bed. For some reason, she had disliked the idea of decorating her room, so anything aside from the bare necessities was hidden under her bed. Breakfast was about to start, in about thirty minutes or so. She had enough time to wake up Lawrence and drag him out of bed…well, hay, technically. "Justice-san?" she questioned. Lawrence snapped awake, disorientated and fell off the hay pile. "What, huh?" Miharu rolled her eyes at the disgraceful display. At least he woke up easily enough. "Justice-san, perhaps-" Miharu seemed to think to herself a bit. "You do not have any clothes, do you? No, I supposed not. I will have to order some as I am ordering the bed," Miharu muttered to herself. "Justice-san, breakfast is about to start soon. You may come with me to my classes, or-" Miharu was cut off as a letter flew into the room. The letter opened up by itself and the headmaster's voice came out. "Dear students, As you need to be further acquainted with your familiars, the day will be taken off from school. Those who are able to see their names on the letter visit my office at 3:00p.m. Professor Mundus." Miharu glanced at the note, and-ah, her name was there. Hm, perhaps it was because she summoned a person from Earth. That would be quite strange if that had never happened before. Miharu tried to think of any of the information of any of the great mages she read that summoned humans. However, none came to mind. She then started on the lesser known mages and blinked when it seemed that none of them had summoned a person from Earth. Huh, that would have to be furthered researched. "Miharu?" Hearing her name broke Miharu from her thoughts. From the look of Lawrence's face, she had been zoning out for a long time. "I apologize, I was toying with several ideas with my head," Miharu stated. "What did you say?" "Do we still go to breakfast?" questioned Lawrence. "I highly doubt that because we do not have classes, they are going to starve us," deadpanned Miharu. "However, if you do not mind tidying yourself up a bit, we could head down." Lawrence nodded, standing up. As he had slept in the clothes that he came in, there was quite a bit of hay to wipe off his clothes. After a few moments, he really had no need to comb his hair, but he did take away all the hay, Lawrence was ready to go. Miharu nodded to herself. "I am going to order you some clothes as well as ordering the bed. We can do this after breakfast. After that, if you feel up to it, we may tour the school together so you may know the layout better. Just to warn you, Tristen Academy is fairly big; it would have to be to host as much students as it does. It would not do well to get lost, or forget your way through the academy." "Alright," Lawrence said. He shuffled his feet nervously, looking down. "Uh, thanks. Y'know, for trying to do your best to help out my basic needs." Miharu blinked, before smiling dryly. "I am the one who got you into this mess in the first place; it is the least I can do to make up for it." Lawrence seemed to hesitate slightly, but nodded. "Either way, thanks." "You are welcome." Miharu had to wonder what Lawrence went through on his time on Earth. To react as strongly as he did….However, Miharu wasn't about to dive into his life story or demand that he tell her. However, curiosity was such a curious thing. -x- Daniel couldn't help but watch Fira sleep. For some reason, he managed to wake up earlier than he usually would, so, he just sat there and stared at her. Daniel thought this girl was quite weird. Although she could be called attractive, he really only did like girls with big breasts, so it wasn't like he was physically attractive to her. However, there was something about her that made him pause mentally; why he showed a side of himself that he hadn't shown to anyone aside from that ***** Mizushima. He needed to be colder around her in order to get an advantage over her, even if it didn't work. At all. Daniel shook his head as if too get rid of his thoughts. No need to get pissed before breakfast. After breakfast was a different story, though. Still, he couldn't help but think that Fira was adorable when she was sleeping. She seemed peaceful and calm, different from the confusion and the anger last night. It would probably be hilarious to tease her. If she did get out of hand, there was always the contract. He was interrupted when the letter came into the room. With the loud voice, it woke Fira up, who startled awake. "Dear students, As you need to be further acquainted with your familiars, the day will be taken off from school. Those who are able to see their names on the letter visit my office at 3:00p.m. Professor Mundus." Daniel whistled. Hm, it seemed that he was on the letter. Perhaps it was because of Fira, perhaps it was because of those sexual harassment charges he had against them. Which he totally did not do. No, really. Fira yawned. "What's that s'all 'bout?" "We're one of those lucky people visiting the headmaster," Daniel said sarcastically. "Make yourself look pretty, as impossible as it is, and let's head out." Rubi grumbled something under her breath, something about castrating him, but obeyed. Good girl, she was learning. After wiping the hay off of her hair and her clothes, she faced Daniel who was already dressed. "I'm ready." "Good," said Daniel. "Let's eat breakfast." Rubi paused. "Could I get a bed? And maybe some clothes too?" she said in a rush. Daniel shrugged. "Not a bed; commoners do only deserve hay, but perhaps clothes." Daniel smirked. "Perhaps it could make you look better." Rubi's fists tightened in anger, before relaxing. "Alright." Daniel grinned. "I'll order some clothes for you after breakfast. Ah…I wonder if they can send in that maid outfit." There was a reaction! Rubi growled, her fists tightening harder than it had before. Daniel wiggled a finger at Rubi. "Uh, uh, uh. Don't want to piss me off too badly, eh?" Rubi glared at Daniel. Daniel smirked, holding up his hand that was ready to snap. Although he technically could only cause the pain with his will, it was much fun to give her a warning so she would tense up. Rubi managed to calm herself enough, but Daniel could still see the tenseness and the anger. Damn, it was so fun teasing her. Daniel laughed. "Good *****. Now, let's head out. 'M starving." -x- Fira hummed quietly to herself as she waited for Riley to wake up. Although she could have woken him up like she did last night, for some reason, she felt like letting him sleep in. Although, it could be because a tired toy is way worse than a well-rested plaything. Still, her humming was interrupted when a letter went in through the cracks of the door. She smiled. The arrival of the letter seemed to wake Riley up as well. "Dear students, As you need to be further acquainted with your familiars, the day will be taken off from school. Those who are able to see their names on the letter visit my office at 3:00p.m. Professor Mundus." Fira checked the letter and grinned when she saw that it had her name. Well, this would be very fun indeed. "What was that all about?" Riley wondered out loud. Fira directed her grin, huge and wide, at Riley. For some reason, he seemed to be nervous seeing it. Go figure. "Seems we're going to have some fun today! Now, come on, get ready so we can have some breakfast. I'm starving!" Fira exclaimed. Riley scratched the back of his neck nervously. "Uh, I don't have any clothes to change into." Fira smiled. "Don't worry; we can always order some after breakfast." "And a bed?" "If you're a good toy, then of course!" Fira grinned. Riley scowled. "And if I'm not?" "Then you have to earn your bed!" Riley sighed. He stood up, brushing the hay off of his clothes and hair. Fira nodded, satisfied, before sliding off her bed. Fira grinned. "Onward, brave soldier!" Fira ran out of the room. Riley sighed, but followed. -x- Lawrence couldn't help but gape as he entered the banquet hall. It was huge! In fact, it would be what he imagined the Great Hall to be from Harry Potter. There were even four tables with flags hanging over them and a teacher's table as well! Of course, the flags were different. One of them had a base colour of orange and a small, single, red flame on it. Another was white with a light blue wave on the flag. Another was brown with a green leaf. The last one seemed to look transparent, aside from the grey tornado on the flag. Actually, Lawrence would have to admit that the flag was transparent; he could see the other side of the hall through that flag. He tugged on Miharu's sleeve, who turned around to glance at him. "Um, what's with all these flags?" questioned Lawrence. Miharu tilted her head slightly. "They represent the four elements. I am going to assume you can tell which one is which. If my assumption is wrong, then you are very stupid. Those with a certain affinity have to sit with those affinities. Otherwise, well, fights would break out between the houses. Personality clashes and all." Lawrence nodded, before remembering the conversation last night. "Wait, when you introduced yourself, you said that you knew both water and wind magic. Is that rare?" "We all learn basics of each of the magics," Miharu stated. "However, each of us has a preference, or we are just born being better at it. Luckily for me, I was able to have two preferences. Of course, that just means I have to work twice as hard, but to each their own, I suppose." "So, where would you seat normally?" Miharu shrugged. "I switch between the two elements. I really do not care that much about elemental rivalries and all that. It really is unnecessary. Which kinds of people do you like better; free-spirited people or those who 'go with the flow'?" Lawrence blinked. "I guess free-spirited people?" "Air then today," Miharu said out loud. "So, their personalities reflect their elements?" questioned Lawrence. Miharu nodded. "Personalities and elements are intertwined. Although some differences can happen, like a hot-blooded water or a calm fire, generally, people fit into the same elemental personality types as everyone else." Lawrence raised an eyebrow. "I think you would fit into water the best, then." Miharu shrugged. "Hey *****!" shouted out an unfamiliar voice to Lawrence. Just as Lawrence frowned as he wondered who the hell was this guy screaming profanity at, Miharu sighed slightly. "Damn," she said, sounding almost…wistful? "I was hoping that I would be free of his annoying arse just for today." -x- Rubi half jumped when Daniel just suddenly shouted, "Hey *****!" right next to her. Who the hell could he be talking to? Rubi followed his line of sight to see a female, looking to be around the same age as her, if not a tad older, and another teenage boy, this time looking slightly younger than she. Perhaps this could be the Mizushima Daniel was talking about earlier? The girl turned around. Rubi did a double-take. Wow, did that girl ever put on an emotionless mask! It was so hard to find someone who could blank their faces with ease. Even though she was not one of them. The other guy turned around as well, looking a bit nervous and out of place. Rubi narrowed her eyes. Everyone in the school was wearing a uniform; black robes. Why would someone not be wearing them, unless… Rubi walked towards the boy teenager, ignoring Daniel and missing the sharp glance that the girl teenager sent her way. "You're from Earth too, aren't you?" questioned Rubi. The guy did a double-take, before grinning. "Yeah, you too? Name's Lawrence Justice. From America. You?" Rubi held out a dainty hand which Lawrence took. "Rubi Boudreau. Born in Ottawa, Canada, but raised in Toronto, as you Americans say it, Canada." Lawrence blinked. "Isn't Toronto the name of the city?" Rubi smirked. "Yeah, but us locals call it 'Torono', forgoing the second 't'. If you say the 't', that just shows us that you are a tourist and therefore be banned." "I thought you Canadians were supposed to be nice," Lawrence accused. Rubi shrugged. "Can't say that it would be true of all Canadians, love. We got our fair share of murderers and kidnappers as well, just like any country does." Lawrence laughed. "Well, can't expect them to be all good. Aren't you worried 'bout your mage?" Rubi rolled her eyes. "My mage is a dick. I wouldn't mind seeing him knocked down a peg or two. Yours?" "She's…nice," Lawrence decided. "Even if it seems like she has no personality." Rubi sighed. "I so envy you right now." Lawrence smirked at Rubi in a self-satisfying way, when they were suddenly joined up by another teenager, another boy and also looking to be around sixteen. The boy's grin widened. "Finally, other people from Earth! I thought I was the only one, thank the queen." "British, then," Rubi concluded. "Considering your accent 'n all." "Canadian, I say," said the teenager. "Considering your accent 'n all." "Well, don't I feel unloved," Lawrence stated, mock-pouting. The teenager sighed. "An American. Damn. I was hoping for some smart company." Rubi could tell from Lawrence's fist that he was about to sock this teenager a new one when they both noticed at the same time that his mouth had a corner of a smile to it and his eyes were full of laughter. A joke, then. Lawrence rolled his eyes. "Oh a joke, how bloody funny." The teenager sniffed in a haughty fashion. "Just because you can't imitate a British accent…" The teenager let that trail off. "Anyways, name's Riley Davids. Yours?" "Lawrence Justice." "Rubi Boudreau." "What's your mage like?" Riley asked curiously. "Mine seems to be happy all the time and wants me to be her toy, apparently." Rubi blinked. "Mine's a pervert and he said that if I misbehave too much, he'll rape me." The two boys blanched, before their faces turned red. "WHAT?" the two shouted at once, gathering a lot more stares than they had originally. Rubi shushed them. "Really? Do you guys want to draw more attention to yourselves?" The two of them looked fairly chastised as they should. Lawrence shifted his weight slightly. "My mage seems to act quite emotional less, although she does help me out and answer my questions." Lawrence paused. "A lot." Both Rubi and Riley snorted at once. "You got lucky," Rubi commented wistfully. "Damn, I wish I had your mage as my mage." "I am flattered, but I think I can manage without taking two more familiars under my wing," interjected Lawrence's mage. -x- Fira and Riley had walked into the halls of the Dining Hall. Although Fira had planned to go straight to the earth table, four other teenagers gathering up spiked her interest. First of all, two of them were Miharu and Daniel. It was very well known that Daniel hated Miharu's guts for whatever reasons. No one really knew if the feelings were mutual due to her impressive unemotional facial expressions and body language. Currently, Daniel was asking for a fight, while Miharu was clearly denying his advances. "I guess a little ***** like you is just scared," sneered Daniel. Miharu yawned. Fira walked up to them, grinning. "Miharu! Daniel! 'Sup?" Miharu glanced at Fira. "Good morning, Lumen-san." Daniel sent a flirting grin at Fira. "And how is my sexy Fira?" Fira smiled at Daniel. "Not about to accept your advances." Daniel rolled his eyes, smirking at Fira. "Why wouldn't you accept this sexy person?" "Either way," Miharu interjected, "we are going to visit the headmaster together." Both Daniel and Fira sent Miharu a shocked glance, although Fira's grin stayed strong. "What do you mean by that?" Fira questioned, being more polite of the two. A small smile flickered on Miharu's face, which caused both Daniel and Fira to be even more shocked. "The three of us summoned humans from Earth, after all," stated Miharu. Daniel's eyes widened as Fira blinked. "You summoned a commoner as well?" shouted out Daniel. "You got a plaything too?" Fira said happily. Miharu raised an eyebrow. "The two of you are such strange people," she commented. "Commoners and playthings, like these people are not actually human." Daniel blinked. "But they're not." Fira's smile widened. "Hm, the most emotionless of the three is the one who treats the familiars the kindest. How funny." "Only funny when it is sad," Miharu commented. "Only sad when it is funny." Daniel blinked. "What the hell are you saying?" "If you cannot figure it out, too bad," Miharu said simply. She glanced at the three familiars chatting. "I think we have given them enough time to chat, us enough time to chat. I will see you all later at the headmaster's office. Cheers." Miharu turned around and motioned towards the other boy familiar. The boy familiar nodded, the girl familiar and Riley turning around to see what, or who, the boy familiar was waving to. Miharu walked toward the air table with the boy familiar in tow. Daniel sent a cocky grin at Fira. "Although I would hate to admit that Mizushima had the right idea, but I think it's time to say goodbye, my sexy Fira." Fira sent a grin at Daniel. "You have no idea how much I want to punch you in the balls." Daniel shrugged. "Hey, that would still be feeling me up." He then turned towards the commoners. "Hey, ***** commoner! Let's move!" The girl familiar scowled before walking towards Daniel, Riley following her. "You haven't told me where the **** to go." Daniel smiled. 'Uh, uh, uh." Fira shot the girl familiar a grin. "I think I like you. Fira Lumen. You?" The girl familiar blinked. "Rubi Boudreau." Fira's grin brightened. "I think I'll keep an eye on you." Was that a shiver she detected? Ooh, how fun. "Riley, we should go to the earth table now." Riley and Rubi sent Fira a questioning look. "Earth table?" they both questioned. Fira grinned. "The tables are separated by the elements that you are the best at. Since I'm best at earth, I sit there. However," Fira directed the next statement to Rubi, "Mr. Flirty over here goes to the fire table, though." Rubi sighed. Perhaps she didn't want to hang out with Daniel for long periods of time. Fira could understand that feeling. Daniel really was annoying. Daniel waved to Fira, winking before walking away towards the fire table. Rubi hesitated briefly before following Daniel. Fira grinned at Riley. "C'mon. We should head out to the earth table." Riley nodded and followed Fira to the earth table. -x- Lawrence glanced around at the students with the air element. They all seemed fairly nice; always full of smiles and such. However, there was a slight detail that caught Lawrence's interest. For some reason, although they engaged him in conversation, they tended to ignore Miharu and pretend that she wasn't even there. Lawrence wondered why they would do such a thing, although dry she really was quite nice, and wondered if Miharu knew this would happen if she sat here and sat here willingly just because he preferred air over water? If that was true, than Miharu really was a good person. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Lawrence sent a shy smile at Ventus. "Um, why are you ignoring Miharu?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu blinked. The rest of the table within hearing distance gaped. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Ventus shot a look at Miharu. "Uh..."[FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharushrugged. "Justice-san, there is no need to make a fuss. I would rather not talk anyways. Them engaging me in a conversation would only annoy and inhibit the both of us." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Lawrence frowned, but let it go. Miharu seemed rather secretive. Aside from stating her name and her abilities, there really wasn't much that Miharu said.[FONT="]
[/FONT]Of course, Lawrence was being hypocritical. He never said anything to Miharu either about his past, although Miharu was getting curious about it.[FONT="]
[/FONT]Still, Lawrence felt that hiding her emotions was a tad strange. It was almost as if she could only communicate through monotones and sarcasm. It was really quite strange. The only thing that Lawrence would have to admit sounded close to emotions in her voice was when that male mage that Miharu was arguing with called her a *****. And even that was just a tinge. [FONT="]
[/FONT]No, Lawrence was rather curious why she seemed to not have any emotions and why people seemed to treat her with caution. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Lawrence finished the food on his plate and noticed that Miharu wasn't touching anymore food. He smiled at the air elementals. "Well, I'm quite full. I think I might go explore the castle a bit."[FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu rose and bowed to the air elementals. "Have a nice day." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Both Lawrence and Miharu left the Dining Hall at the same time. [FONT="]
[/FONT]"Where to now?" questioned Lawrence.[FONT="]
[/FONT]"We order your clothes and bed," Miharu said. "Then we go exploring, making sure that you know every inch of this castle well enough to have been a student here for a few years." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Lawrence gulped. "All in a day?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu shook her head. "I shall let you soak it all up in the week. Plus, at the end of the week is when it should really be necessary to start learning how the school works."[FONT="]
[/FONT]Lawrence blinked. "Why?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]"The Familiar Showcase, of course." [FONT="]
[/FONT]-x-[FONT="]
[/FONT]Rubi glanced down at her plate and clenched her fists. It seemed that Daniel had multiple friends that were like him; perverted, cocky, rude dicks and all they wanted was to actually have sex with someone. Disgusting.[FONT="]
[/FONT]One of the boys leered her way. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Rubi had to bit her lip in order to not say anything. And had to hold herself back from kicking him in the balls.[FONT="]
[/FONT]Right before they sat at the table, Daniel had some words from her. It basically said that if she hit or argued with one of the other guys, well, she would regret it. Although, soon she would reach her limit. Too many idiots, all of them perverted. It was like Rubi's worst nightmare. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Alright, perhaps worst was an exaggeration, but definitely up there. For sure. Maybe top three. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Rubi noticed Lawrence and his mage getting up from their table. [FONT="]
[/FONT]"I've finished eating, can I go on ahead?" Rubi whispered to Daniel. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Daniel glanced at Rubi oddly. "You don't know the way around the castle." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Rubi shrugged. "I remember the way to the room. I'll be fine." [FONT="]
[/FONT]"Alright, go on ahead commoner." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Rubi stood up and left the Dining Hall.[FONT="]
[/FONT]"Hey guys, wait up!" she shouted towards Lawrence and his mage. [FONT="]
[/FONT]They both stopped, turning around to look at Rubi. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Rubi managed to catch up to them. "Can I hang with you guys for awhile? I would rather not hang out with that dick and his friends for more than I have to." [FONT="]
[/FONT]"Alright," said Lawrence's mage. "My name is Miharu Mizushima. I am assuming that you have met Justice-san before. Yours?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]"Rubi Boudreau." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu nodded. "We are going to get some clothes and a bed for Justice-san before letting him explore the castle." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Rubi blinked. "You're giving him a bed?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]"I am going to take that as Avery-san thinks of you as a commoner and as such, will not give you a bed?" Miharu sighed. "Will he at least be giving you clothes?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]Rubi nodded. "But...Apparently he's going to give me a maid outfit. Probably some ****ty stuff as well."[FONT="]
[/FONT]"I think you may have gotten the short end of the straw in mages," commented Lawrence. [FONT="]
[/FONT]"She did," agreed Miharu. "The only person that I think could be worse is Lumen-san."[FONT="]
[/FONT]Rubi and Lawrence blinked. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Lawrence was confused. "'Lumen-san'?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]"Riley's mage," said Rubi. She turned towards Miharu. "Why would having Fira as a mage be bad? She seemed really nice."[FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu tilted her head. "Something about her does not sit right with me. My instincts are telling me that she is a very dangerous person. If you had seen me for the first time, you would not think that I would be such a...How do you say it..." Miharu muttered near the end. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu shrugged. "I am certainly not a nice person. Maybe more like...a species rights' activist. I am fairly cold and emotionless, after all. It would be impossible for someone to tell that I hate discrimination." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Rubi blinked, before nodding. "Yeah, that is true."[FONT="]
[/FONT]"Plus, Avery-san seems cocky and has a lot of charisma before you dive down under his mask. His real personality is more jaded and a bit more sadistic."[FONT="]
[/FONT]"True," said Rubi.[FONT="]
[/FONT]"Well, take that sadism, multiple that by about a million and you get Lumen-san's sadism," stated Miharu. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Riley glanced at Fira who was eating well. [FONT="]
[/FONT]"So, what are we going to be doing today?" questioned Riley. He had already finished eating his breakfast, used to eating quickly. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira paused in her eating, grinning at Riley. "Well, clothes should be a good guess. Other than that...We could always play and go exploring." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Riley blinked. "Play?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]"There's a forest out there. We could go play around in the trees," stated Fira. [FONT="]
[/FONT]One of the earth mages, Liro, glanced at Fira in shock. [FONT="]
[/FONT]"The forest out there is forbidden," he gaped. "There's multiple dangerous creatures out there." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira smiled. "That's what makes it fun!" Fira put down her fork. "I'm done. Let's head out."[FONT="]
[/FONT]Riley rose. "Alright." Riley turned to the earth mages. "Thanks for letting me to sit here."[FONT="]
[/FONT]Liro waved a hand. "No problem."[FONT="]
[/FONT]However, Riley could feel some sense of hesitation in the rest of the earth mages. Maybe it was because he was from Earth. Maybe...Riley glanced at Fira. Maybe it was because of her. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira waved at the other mages. "See ya guys later!" she said cheerily and walked away. Riley followed her quickly. [FONT="]
[/FONT]They walked out of the Dining Hall. [FONT="]
[/FONT]"So, where can we get some clothes anyways?" questioned Riley. [FONT="]
[/FONT]"We're going there now. There's an office which sells clothes to the students who needs them. We'll just buy them for you. After all, not everyone has families that can send them clothing. It's a small amount, but enough to get that change." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Riley blinked. "Orphans?" [FONT="]
[/FONT]"There's about five in my grade," said Fira. "There are probably more that don't even say anything. They don't have to, but it would be nice to know the actual statistic." [FONT="]
[/FONT]"Do you know who?" questioned Riley, before realizing that asking such a thing would probably be really rude. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira hummed. "Hmm, there's one person I know whose familiar you know. Miharu Mizushima, the boy familiar's mage, doesn't talk about her parents, or any member of her family at all that I know of." [FONT="]
[/FONT]"Do you know why?" Riley asked before he could stop himself. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Damn, curiosity was going to get him killed. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira smiled at Riley. "Maybe because she doesn't have a family. Maybe it's because of something else. No one really knows; she's very secretive and likes to keep things to herself. It's probably why she keeps her emotions hidden."[FONT="]
[/FONT]"Uh, what about the other mage? The male one?" [FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira smiled secretively at Riley. "Oh, Daniel? He's just a dick. He likes to think with his little brain rather than his head." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Riley blushed when the meaning of that statement suck into his head. "So, he's a pervert?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]"Pretty much," said Fira. "However, he is fairly sadistic and violent. However, he is physically strong. The only one in our grade that's probably strong would be Miharu." [FONT="]
[/FONT]"A girl stronger than a guy?" he managed to ask before he was able to stop himself. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Damn. He really was going to get killed. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira shrugged. "I'm not actually sure why Miharu is stronger. Like you implied, girls are usually physically weaker than guys. It could be something that is also hidden in her past that allows her to be physically strong." [FONT="]
[/FONT]"It seems like many mysteries surround Miharu," commented Riley. "Does Daniel have parents?" [FONT="]
[/FONT]"Yup," Fira said. "He's one of the many nobles. It's rare for commoners, like Miharu, to be able to come to Tristen Academy. Usually commoners are sent to one of the lesser schools. Only a few are able to come to Tristen Academy."[FONT="]
[/FONT]Riley blinked. "There must have been at least a few hundred people in there? Are you saying that they are all nobles?" [FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira smiled brightly. "We have a lot of noble families. Of course, most of those are love childs that a noble has with a commoner, but no one really tries to broadcast that."[FONT="]
[/FONT]"Do you come from a noble family?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]"The second most prestigious aside from the royal family," said Fira. "The Leikos are the first. I'm actually the closest to the crown of the princess is killed or captured and was unable to give out an heir at that time. The Leiko's only daughter died when I was about five and they haven't been able to birth an heir since."[FONT="]
[/FONT]Riley frowned. "I really hate politics." [FONT="]
[/FONT]"I can tell that you wouldn't be good at it," said Fira with a huge smile. "You stick your foot into your mouth too much to be a good politician." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Riley chuckled. "That is true. My mum always said that I talked too much for my own good." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira nodded, smiling. "I would have to agree with your mum." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Riley chuckled again. "Are we about there?" [FONT="]
[/FONT]"Considering that Miharu and friends are right ahead of us, then I'd say that we're about there," said Fira. She sent a grin at Riley before skipping over to Miharu, Rubi, and Lawrence. Riley sighed before following her, not skipping though. [FONT="]
[/FONT]"What are you guys talking about?" questioned Fira with a smile when she managed to catch up to them. [FONT="]
[/FONT]"Just about the upcoming familiar showcase," Miharu said. "The familiar showcase is when both a mage and familiar pair fight against another mage and familiar pair. It could also be stated as a battle tournament as well."[FONT="]
[/FONT]At Rubi's, Lawrence's, and Riley's worried look, Fira grinned.[FONT="]
[/FONT]"Don't worry," said Fira. "Hardly anyone ever dies from it anymore."[FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu rolled her eyes. "It has been a few years," Miharu admitted. "When I first started here, there was a death, but they still have a lot of medics on board."[FONT="]
[/FONT]"Is it usually the Friday after you summon your familiars?" questioned Lawrence. "Today is, what, Tuesday? That barely gives anyone any time to prepare for anything." [FONT="]
[/FONT]"That's exactly the point," said Fira. "It's to see the potential you and your mage has in fighting together." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu shrugged. "But, of course, summoning a rabbit as one's familiar can be rather downing if fighting against a mage paired with a dragon. However, sometimes a familiar can gain a certain...ability that can be only drawn out in fighting, or if the mage is in trouble." [FONT="]
[/FONT]"That seems rather useful," commented Rubi. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Riley grinned mischievously. "Plus, you can never know when that bunny rabbit ends up becoming a huge monster seven feet tall." [FONT="]
[/FONT]"I am going to bet a lot of money that that is going to happen to a rabbit that you have to fight," said Miharu. [FONT="]
[/FONT]"How much?" said Riley suspiciously. [FONT="]
[/FONT]"You don't have any money I could take," said Miharu. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Riley scowled. He whispered something to Fira who whispered back. Riley grinned at Fira, before turning to Miharu.[FONT="]
[/FONT]He stared at Miharu. "I will be your slave for a month if you win."[FONT="]
[/FONT]"I will pay you...ten silver coins if you win," said Miharu.[FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira blinked. "That is a lot of money," she commented.[FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu shrugged. "I have a lot lying around. Somewhat. Besides, I am," the ends of her mouth curved somewhat and Fira realized that it was a smile, "fairly confident of my winning. Irony will be on my side." [FONT="]
[/FONT]
"Deal?" questioned Riley, holding out his hand.[FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu looked at the hand as if she had never seen it before, before grasping it tightly. Riley winced. Damn, she had a strong grip. Now he could tell that how she would be physically strong. "Deal," she stated. "As our witnesses, Boudreau-san, Justice-san, and Lumen-san should tell us who has won the bet if we are to be absent at the time. Of course, if you are absent, the deal will be null and void. Is this alright with everyone?" [FONT="]
[/FONT]Rubi shrugged. "I'm cool with that." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Lawrence grinned. "I'll try not to be biased, but sure. Although, if Miharu is gone, most likely I'll be gone as well." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira chuckled. "I'll try to be as biased as possible! Go, Miharu, go!" [FONT="]
[/FONT]Riley pouted. "No love for your familiar?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]"Seeing you as a slave would be more enjoyable than seeing Miharu pay you ten silver coins," Fira stated. "I'm just choosing the person that will give me the best entertainment." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Riley rolled his eyes. "I'm so glad that entertainment is more important than your familiar." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira grinned. "Of course."[FONT="]
[/FONT]As Riley opened his mouth to retort, Miharu interjected. [FONT="]
[/FONT]"As entertaining," another uphill curve of the ends of her lips, "as this argument is, perhaps we should stop this petty fight. We have arrived, after all." [FONT="]
[/FONT]-x-[FONT="]
[/FONT]Richard blinked when he heard a knock on his door. He stood from the desk he was writing on, standing at his full 6'4". His blue eyes curiously looked at the door as he walked to it, his hand ruffling his fair hair as per his usual nervous habit. His smile brightened when he saw who was behind the door, however.[FONT="]
[/FONT]"Miharu! Fira!" exclaimed Richard cheerfully. "So, you're paying me a visit already." He glanced at the three behind Miharu and Fira. "Hm, two guys and a girl, but Daniel isn't here. I'm assuming that the red haired miss is Miss Rubi, Daniel's familiar, no?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]The familiars gaped at Richard. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira grinned at Richard as she moved past the gaping familiars. "Thanks for inviting us in. It's nice to see you." She seemed tiny in comparison to Richard, being 5'2" and all. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu ushered the dumbed familiars inside and glanced up at Richard. She was eight inches shorter than Richard, which still made her look pretty short. "Your information network is as impressive as ever." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Richard chuckled, his deep baritone voice coming out in spades. "Why thank you, Miharu. You know that I wouldn't have gotten half of the information I have without your help." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu shrugged, ignoring the shocked looks that everyone sent her way (yes, even Fira). "What can I say; I am a people person, after all." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Richard clapped Miharu on the back, who didn't seem to show any reaction from the force of the usually powerful blow. It probably would have knocked anyone else of her size right off their feet. Richard laughed. "I'll believe it when I see it!" [FONT="]
[/FONT]Riley stared curiously at Richard. "So, you know my name?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]Richard grinned. "You're Fira's familiar...Mr. Riley. That means that the other one is Miharu's familiar; Mr. Lawrence." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Lawrence blinked. "No need for the mister title."[FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira seemed to laugh at something and even Miharu seemed to have a slight funny bone. Richard grinned at Lawrence and winked. "Sorry, no can do. Maybe one of the ladies will tell you why. Not now though. I'm guessing you all need clothes?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]"A bed for Justice-san as well," stated Miharu. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Richard whistled. "Damn, you really are going deluxe here." Richard turned to Lawrence, placing a hand on Miharu's shoulder. "You know, most people would have just made you slept on the sack of hay and not bothered to even try to make you comfortable here." Richard laughed a booming laugh. "You're becoming softer everyday!"[FONT="]
[/FONT]"If you need a demonstration on how I can still kick your arse, you can always just ask," stated Miharu. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Richard patted Miharu's shoulders. "Nah, I'm completely alright. Haven't gotten over from the bruises the last time we sparred." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu tilted her head slightly and looked oddly...resentful? "Neither have I." [FONT="]
[/FONT]"Well, at least I know I did something right!" said Richard with a grin. "You do have a remarkable healing rate after all." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu shrugged. "You know as well as I that my healing rate is not remarkable. I am just able to ignore pain a lot easier, making it seem like I get healthy faster." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Richard sighed. "That's exactly why you walked into class without your crutches after you popped your knee out of its socket." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Riley blinked. "You guys have crutches?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira grinned at Riley. "No matter on how much we wish that magic could work on every illness and injury, sometimes it doesn't always happen. There are a few times in which case some of our bones and such are so messed up that we have to heal it the commoner way." Fira smirked at Miharu. "That has happened to her quite a few times." [FONT="]
[/FONT]"Not my fault everyone wants to bloody fight me," muttered Miharu. She spoke louder. "So, when do you think you will have the clothes and the bed by, Richard?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]Richard hummed. "Probably after your meeting is over with the headmaster. Of course, we all know dealing with the headmaster is a tiring process, so I'll move the bed inside and put the clothes inside all of the rooms as well for you. Free of charge."[FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira grinned happily at Richard. "That's excellent!"[FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu bowed to Richard. "Thank you. How much does it cost now?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]"'Bout six silvers," said Richard. [FONT="]
[/FONT]"For all of us, right?" questioned Rubi.[FONT="]
[/FONT]Richard nodded. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu held out four silvers while Fira held out two. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Richard collected the silver coins and nodded. "Nice doing business with you girls." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira walked out of the door, waving a hand as she left. "You too!" Riley, not wanting to be separated from his mage, ran after her. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu bowed one last time to Richard and left as well. Rubi, who had nowhere else to go, and Lawrence followed after Miharu. [FONT="]
[/FONT]-x-[FONT="]
[/FONT]Lawrence blinked when the door closed after them. "So, who was that guy?" he questioned. [FONT="]
[/FONT]"Richard Cotio," said Miharu. "He is the guy one goes to in order to get materials as well as information."[FONT="]
[/FONT]"What did he mean by that you gave him most of his information?' questioned Rubi. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu nodded, but said nothing. [FONT="]
[/FONT]"You didn't answer my question," said Rubi rudely. [FONT="]
[/FONT]"Perhaps I just do not want to answer it," said Miharu. "Take it at face value; I gave him a lot of information."[FONT="]
[/FONT]Lawrence frowned. "Is that why you know so much about Fira?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]"Perhaps," Miharu allowed.[FONT="]
[/FONT]Lawrence frowned. "What's with all of this secrecy? You never state as much as you have to and you only do when you're caught out? What's with you?"[FONT="]
[/FONT]"Perhaps I am just a secretive person," said Miharu. "However, I could state the same as you. However, I know that we are not nearly that close to share life stories with each other. Perhaps later. Or never. It depends on how we get along. This, a familiar and mage bond, is almost like dating. You never show your true side out first, only showing off what you feel that people will like. Until we are close enough that we can actually share our real personalities, and such, we might as well not share our life stories." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Rubi looked between the two awkwardly. "Uh..." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Miharu shook her head and sighed. "Perhaps we should move on from this weary topic. We should probably start exploring the castle now. It is going to take awhile." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Lawrence sighed, but nodded hesitantly. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Rubi nodded vigorously. [FONT="]
[/FONT]-x-[FONT="]
[/FONT]Riley glanced at Fira. "We're not going with them?" he asked when they were quite a few distance away from the other mage and familiars. [FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira smiled brightly. "We're going to be doing something else." [FONT="]
[/FONT]Riley blinked. "What?" [FONT="]
[/FONT]Fira's smile turned evil. "We're going into the dangerous forests on the grounds." [FONT="]
A/N: And here is the third chapter. Fourth chapter should be on its way. xD It ends on a bit of an ominous note, to be honest. ^^
Chapter Three
Slightly dusty and a tad disheveled but not too worse for the wear, Miharu, Lawrence, and Rubi stood in front of the headmaster's office at 2:55p.m. Miharu was nonchalantly leaning against the wall, looking calm for some odd reason. Lawrence was pacing back and forth, slightly nervous. Rubi glanced around for her mage, wondering when he would get there.
At 2:58p.m, a slightly bloody Riley and a very bloody Fira walked up to the headmaster's office. Riley was scowling like mad while Fira was grinning brightly as can be. Miharu glanced at the blood with a fine eye.
"You went to the forests," Miharu muttered. "From the look of the blood, as blue as it is, you ended up being attacked by Goblins. From the amount of blood, I would say that you guys managed to kill five Goblins or injured ten of them."
Fira sent her bright grin at Miharu. "Correct! On the injuring part, not the killing part. Exact number too, you should be proud."
Lawrence's eyes widened. "Goblins?"
Rubi sighed. "What the hell did you two do in order to be attacked by Goblins?"
"It is actually not that hard to piss off Goblins," said Miharu. "They are extremely territorial. If someone even makes one step into their home...Well, they become very violent." Riley shivered. "You may be able to handle that kind of stuff, but I can't!" Fira shook her head slightly, her bright smile becoming to its regular light. "You won't be such a fun toy then," she commented.
Riley grumbled.
Silence fell over everyone again.
At 3:01p.m, Daniel came jogging over, cocky grin in place.
"'Sup *****es," he said with a grin. Miharu rolled her eyes. "Way to be a minute late," she said.
Before Daniel could retort, the door opened. The headmaster's secretary, an elf by the name of Adria, looked at the group of six in front of the door. "Headmaster Mundus will see you now."
Daniel scoffed. "It's about time," he muttered.
Rubi rolled her eyes. "You've been here for twenty seconds waiting. Don't complain."
Daniel raised an eyebrow at Rubi.
Rubi scowled and looked towards another direction.
Miharu raised an eyebrow at the interaction, but didn't say anything.
They were ushered into the headmaster's office where six empty chairs and one full chair were waiting for them. Professor Mundus gestured for the group to sit on the other side of his desk, where the six empty seats were. Each of the students sat in an individual seat.
Headmaster Mundus stared at the six from over the chin resting on his hands. He sighed.
"Children," he said, "these are very dangerous times. I fear the fact that the familiars from Earth will only add on to the trouble."
Fira raised an eyebrow. Daniel's cocky grin slid off his face. Rubi's eyes widened. Miharu kept her face impressively blank. Lawrence frowned. Riley glanced at Fira.
"Have any of you heard about the Chaos Heart?" he questioned.
Both Fira and Daniel looked clueless when the familiars turned to face the mages. However, Miharu winced.
"Damn," she said out loud.
Headmaster Mundus chuckled. "Indeed," he agreed. "I am not shocked that you have heard of this tale, Miss Miharu. However, I am surprised at the fact that Miss Lumen has not heard of the tale. Mister Avery, on the other hand...Well, I know that such things would not interest him.
"Well, I suppose that it is story time," said the headmaster simply. "Would you like to tell the tale, Miss Miharu, or should I?"
Miharu shook her head. "The floor is yours, Mundus-sensei. I am sure that you will be able to tell it better."
Headmaster Mundus smiled and nodded. "Our tale begins with a familiar summoning from the time when void magic still existed.
"A powerful void mage had summoned a male from Earth. Together, they grew stronger and faced many battles together. However, void was an extremely dangerous element. Although it is the strongest out of the elements out there, it could easily hurt as it could heal. Void is a very temperamental thing. If one does not have a strong will, the evil of void will take over the body, mind, and soul of the mage.
"Weakened after a battle, both mentally and physically, the void magic turned the mage's heart around: changed her from a healer to a destroyer. Connected soul wise, the familiar turned as well. They began attacking people, first the ones they loathed to finally the ones that they loved. When the last loved one had been killed, the void magic became stronger. The mage than began destroying everything in her path. Pain and suffering was very common for everyone.
"However, some a few of the strongest powerful mages were able to seal the mage, using the power of obsidian as well as her own void magic against her. She was trapped in a clock whose time has stopped. Whatever the key is to unlock the mage, it is not known.
"After the mage was sealed, the familiar disappeared. Some say that since the mage was as good as dead, the familiar lost his soul like other familiars do when the ones they have connected to are dead. Others say that he is just waiting, biding his time until he can be reunited with his mage again. A few say that he was able to break free from the void magic's control and lived a happy life. No one knows," finished Headmaster Mundus.
Riley frowned. "Um, if you don't excuse me for asking, sir, but what does that have to do with the Chaos Heart?"
Fira's always smiling face had turned into a deep frown. "Because, that mage was the Chaos Heart, right professor?"
"That is correct," said Mundus. "I fear that either all three of you or at least one of you has void magic and..."
"You are afraid that we would unlock the Chaos Heart," Miharu stated softly. "If we were to do that, it would be the end for all of Magia."
Rubi, Lawrence, and Daniel were dumbfounded.
"Why the hell would we do such a thing?" exclaimed Rubi, before realizing that she had just cursed in front of the headmaster. She flushed.
"You can say that now," Fira said softly, "you can say that later. However, if void magic turns you...Well, you won't be saying that any longer."
Headmaster Mundus nodded. "What Miss Fira said is true, Miss Rubi. The void can change you greatly, so much that you don't even know how it happened. One day, you would wake up and feel like you would want to save millions of people. The next day, you wake up and you want to kill those millions of people without any thought of what you thought or said yesterday. While our personality can sometime affect our element, the opposite happens for void; void affects our personality." "Could void turn someone evil into someone good?" questioned Rubi. The headmaster shook his head. "Although, at first, the mage using void can be good, but void ultimately corrupts. It is an evil element." "That is where you are wrong," Miharu said softly. Mundus's eyes narrowed. "Explain," he said shortly. Miharu stood up and paced back and forth, her hands clenched behind her back. "Saying that elements are evil is completely wrong," started Miharu. "Elements cannot be evil, they are just a force; a part of nature. Fire can be called evil. It burns many things; forests, houses, people…the list goes on. However, fire can bring life. Some trees can only reproduce when they are burned by fire. Cold? Curl up near a fire and hyperthermia is avoided. Earth can be called evil. It destroys many things and kills many people due to earthquakes. However, earth gives everyone a place to live on: plants, animals, humans, and other species as well. Air can be called evil. Tornadoes as well as hurricanes kill many people. But without air, we cannot breathe and therefore be unable to live. Water can be called evil. Tsunamis are very dangerous and drowning is deadly, yet, just like air, we would have never been able to live without water. Void can be called evil. It corrupts easily and destroys lives. However, with a strong will and a stronger heart, void can be used in order to save lives and help people. Elements are not evil. They have no soul, no will. The people who use them, however, decide whether or not these elements are evil or good." With her tangent done, Miharu sat down calmly. Everyone pondered her words except for Daniel who just glared at Miharu. After a few moments of silence, the silence was broken by Mundus's chuckles. "I do believe that I have just been "told" by a teenager," Headmaster Mundus remarked. Fira shot a grin at Daniel. "Don't worry, professor, you are not the only one in the room who has been told by Miharu." Daniel redirected his glare to Fira, whose grin grew wider. "Oh don't tell me that's not true," said Fira. Daniel grumbled slightly. "Shut it," she said, louder and clearer. Fira's smile was practically glowing, but zipped her lips and pretended to throw away the key. Daniel rolled his eyes, but stopped glaring. Lawrence stared at Miharu strangely. "You've certainly thought a lot about that." Miharu shrugged. Riley felt that something was wrong. "Wait, there is no way that you called us here just to tell us about the Chaos Heart." "Very perceptive, Mr. Riley," said the headmaster. "Can anyone guess as to why?" "To warn us," said Miharu, before rethinking it. "No, not to warn; to threaten us." "Very smart, Miss Miharu," said Headmaster Mundus. "She is right. If I see that any of you try to break the Chaos Heart free, I will kill you. No matter how high your status is." Headmaster Mundus glanced at all three of the mages at the last statement. When Riley noticed that, he was confused. Wasn't Miharu a commoner? "Do you have anymore questions?" asked Headmaster Mundus. There was silence from the teenagers. "Then, you may leave now." Daniel scowled, heading out of there fast. Rubi sighed, but followed after her mage. Fira left next with a cheery wave to Headmaster Mundus, Riley following after her silently. Lawrence made to stand up, but stared curiously at Miharu who had made no moves to get up. "Miharu…?" he said hesitantly. "Go ahead, Justice-san. I shall catch up to you later. I do believe that it is dinner time; I will be there in a few moments," stated Miharu. Lawrence narrowed his eyes, but nodded. He left with a wave to Miharu and Headmaster Mundus. Miharu and Headmaster Mundus stared at each other for a while before Miharu sighed. "There is something that you are not telling us," Miharu said.
The headmaster sighed. "I lied when I said that we had no idea how to break free the Chaos Heart. In fact, we, I, do know. Killing children with the power of void. A student was killed today with an arrow made out of void."
Miharu let out a breath and sagged into her chair.
"Damn," she said finally.
"I concour."
Miharu narrowed her eyes. "Why are you telling me?"
"If there is anyone out of the six of you that I feel could do this, it would be either you or Miss Fira," said the headmaster.
"Not Avery-san?"
"He's childish, but not a murderer. You two, on the other hand, have seen and murdered people. As I don't know how the familiars grew up, all I can do is place my suspicions on you two," said the headmaster.
"Telling someone you suspect that they are being suspected..." Miharu trailed off. "Quite funny, actually."
"I am glad that you are amused." The headmaster leaned into his hands. "Now, leave. I'll make a public announcement of the student's death at dinner."
"So, in about five minutes?" said Miharu.
The headmaster narrowed his eyes. "Go!"
Miharu bowed to Headmaster Mundus and left for the dining hall.
Headmaster Mundus sighed. "I will not allow the Chaos Heart to be released; by any means necessary."
A/N: My chapters' lengths are totally changing. Some are long, some are short...Well, that's okay.
Chapter Four
Lawrence glanced at Miharu as she walked in, motioning to her to join him. Lawrence had gone to the air table when he had to go to the dining hall by himself, having integrated well at breakfast. His stomach was rumbling with hunger; they had forgotten about lunch when they went to explore the castle. According to Miharu, they only made it to a fourth of the castle, which made Lawrence surprised. They had covered so much stuff, yet they barely dented the surface! It made him wonder if there were secrets hiding behind the castle's corners that even the headmaster didn't know about.
To be honest, Lawrence had to wonder if he stepped into a Harry Potter book. It seemed way to similar to Hogwarts and witches and wizards, even if they called themselves mages instead. They even had four houses! Sure, it dealt more with the elements that they are better at, but even the headmaster admitted that elements could be affected by personalities, which is what the four houses in Hogwarts are divided by.
Lawrence was broken out of his thoughts on the parallels when Miharu stated, "You seem oddly lost in thought."
Lawrence visibly startled. "Uh, I was just thinking."
"Of what?"
"There's a book series back home that reminds me of this place."
Miharu furrowed her eyebrows. "Really?"
"Yeah, called Harry Potter." Lawrence blinked. "Have you heard of it?"
Miharu shrugged. "Cannot say that I have. It is not like we can just order books and the only people that can go to Earth and back are the royal family and it is not like they grab Earth books for the rest of us." Miharu sighed. "Sounds curious, Harry Potter."
Lawrence grinned. "It really is awesome! I have the whole book series, but they're...at...home..."
Miharu, sensing that the topic had gone into dangerous territory, tried to put it on a different track. "Mind telling me about Harry Potter?"
"Sure!" Lawrence was glad for the distraction. He then began explaining the plot of Harry Potter as they waited for the headmaster to arrive to start dinner.
-x-
Rubi frowned. The headmaster was surprised when he saw that Fira, and Daniel slightly, hadn't known about the Chaos Heart, but didn't seem all that shocked that Miharu knew about it. What was the Chaos Heart anyways? And why would it not be strange that Miharu knew about, but Fira and Daniel didn't?
"Hey, Daniel," Rubi whispered, capturing Daniel's attention, "do you have any idea about what the headmaster talked to us about?"
Daniel snorted. "Nope. Even if I did, it doesn't interest me anyways."
Rubi rolled her eyes. "You're only upset that Miharu outstaged you," she accused.
Daniel scowled. "I don't remember giving you permission to speak."
"Yet, you replied anyways," Rubi retorted. She stood up. "Urgh, forget this. I'm going to go hang with Miharu. She is much better company than you."
Daniel rolled his eyes. "Yeah, yeah, whatever. Make sure you both kill each other."
Rubi scowled and walked towards the Air table. Daniel turned back to his friends and interjected into the conversation.
-x-
Fira hummed to herself softly. Riley tapped the table with his fingers in a rhythm only known to himself. They sat next to each other, in a slight awkward silence, at a table by themselves; far from the other fire mages. Riley didn't mind it, although he was surprised that Fira would be okay with it. Fira just seemed to be the type of person who would go and hang out with everyone, worming her way into everyone's heart with her cheerful disposition and huge theatrics. However, even he had to admit that there was something about Fira that was strange, inhuman maybe.
Suddenly, Fira stopped humming and turned to Riley, her eyes wide with shock.
"Now I know where I had recognized that story from," mumbled Fira. "It's a fairytale that mum used to tell me."
Riley blinked. "What kind of fairytale is that?"
"It's the kind that are used to scare children in order to be good," Fira said with a degrading smirk on her face. "My mum used to tell me that if I wasn't good, I would be fed to the Chaos Heart. I can't believe I didn't remember it though. I'm curious as to how Miharu heard about it though."
Riley shrugged. "Maybe she read it in a book or something."
"Maybe..."
Their speculations were interrupted as Headmaster Mundus walked into the dining hall and stood in front of the podium near the high table.
"Students," the headmaster said, "after we eat, there is one announcement that must be made. So, please, dig in."
At once, everyone started eating as food appeared on their plates.
-x-
"Now that we are all full and well watered," said Headmaster Mundus after everyone was finished, "it is time for the announcement. A dear friend of ours has just died last night. A first year named Ruo."
A first year at the earth table rose up. "No!" she screamed.
"I'm afraid so dear," said the headmaster as kindly as he could.
The first year collapsed onto her chair and started to sob. The other first years near her swarmed her, comforting her.
Lawrence turned away, biting his lip. Miharu sighed and stared at the headmaster. Rubi glanced at the first year with wide eyes. Daniel's cocky grin disappeared as he glanced to the side. Riley was crying as well; he was always a sympathetic crier. Fira's usual smile was replaced by a frown. This was one of the time where she didn't enjoy someone's pain.
"It is sad," started the headmaster, "when we have to say goodbye to a friend. However, although Miss Ruo's life was tragically cut short, she still touched the hearts of her family and her friends. She will still live on with all of us. For those of us who have a religion, let us say a few minutes of prayer."
Daniel, Ruby, Lawrence, and Riley ducked their heads and clasped their hands together, as did the majourity of the school. Miharu and Fira, on the other hand, did not.
"God, let the soul of the pure, innocent Miss Ruo fly into your arms and be forever loved. Let her live well in heaven and always be happy. May she join others that she has lost and await for her friends and family. Let she find peace in your embrace, almighty God," said Headmaster Mundus. "Amen."
"Amen," the majourity of the children muttered.
The headmaster cleared his throat. "That is all student. Please, have a good night."
"Very clever, headmaster," murmured Miharu.
Lawrence, who heard her, sent her a confused glance. "What do you mean?"
"If you notice, he did not say how Ruo-san died," said Miharu.
Lawrence blinked, before going through the speech. "Hey, you're right!"
The majourity of the students had already gone. Only a few remained, including Lawrence, Rubi, Riley, Miharu, Daniel, and Fira.
A shadow from a ledge near the ceiling pulled the bowstring and let the arrow of void fly. She didn't want to do this; she had already killed so many. However, she was bound to do it. There wasn't anybody in the world she hated more than her mage. She closed her eyes and allowed a tear to escape. She prayed that she would be able to atone for her sins.
Miharu tensed, feeling something in the wind, as did the few of the Air students left. The arrow hit Ventus straight through his heart. He gasped, putting a hand on the arrow that was stuck in his body. Everyone left in the dining hall, about twenty students or so, stared at Ventus as dark surrounded him. The dark went into the skin and changed him. He started to grow taller to 6'8". His arms went down, making him four-legged. His fingernails longed, creating huge claws of shadow. His hair turned to fire as his skin turned into flowing shadows. His teeth sharpened as he growled at the nearest student, Miharu.
The growl snapped everyone out of their dumbstruck minds and most of the students ran out of the hall, screaming in terrour.
