Ingenium Academy: Capitulo Uno

[Krylo]

Outside the dorms the sun was just rising over the tall walls surrounding Ingenium Academy, casting its light across the grounds, and banishing the darkness of the night into the long shadows cast by its horizontal rays.

Somewhere a rooster was probably crowing to the beginning of a new day, but inside dorm room 5A a boy of thirteen was standing in a picturesque field holding a rose. Before him was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen, although he didn't know her name, having only caught a single glimpse of her on his way into the school. She appeared to be in her early twenties, and wore tight leather armor, with chains linked across carefully tailored holes on her hips, meant to allow for easier movement--and seduction. The leather clung to every body part, and was cut low at the top allowing easy sight of her ample cleavage.

In truth, she'd have looked more at home ruling over a dungeon than in this bed of roses, with a quirky smile on her face about to embrace the boy.

BANG! BANG!

"OI! Git up in thar!"

Both the boy and his much older lover turned to the side looking for the source of the irritating sounds.

Creeeeak...

"Time ta go get signed up fer classes ya blasted kid! GIT UP!"

This time the noises were much louder and closer, and, much to the boy's horror his scene of love began to melt away. The picturesque field melted away into a small dorm room, barely large enough for the desk, book case, dresser, and bed that decorated it, and the girl of his dreams melted away into the face of a dirty man, whom seemed to be missing a couple of teeth and whose face was scarred from an apparent multitude of battles. Of course, none of the hideousness of his face compared to the rancid breath that washed over the new student like a wave as the man shouted, bringing bile up the boys throat.

As soon as the older man saw the boy's eyes open, the younger man was grabbed by the back of his sleeping robes and lifted out of bed to be dropped unceremoniously on the floor.

"Oi! Git dressed and git on down ta the courtyard! It's sign-up day fer ya damn newbies, and the dean's givin' ya all his speech!"

With that the man, who seemed to be quite large, perhaps over six feet tall stormed out of the room slamming the door behind him. The disshelved boy could hear his thundering footsteps heading down the hall, presumably to wake any other new students who needed it.

A sigh escaped the boys lips as he thought back to his dream, his eyes glazing over wistfully. It only lasted a second though before he realized something that kicked his mind back into sharp focus:

"Hey! Maybe I'll finally get to meet her!"

With that thought he jumped to his feet and 'ran' the two steps to his dresser, pulling out the threadbare peasant garb he had come with and hurriedly dressing.

[TheBlindMime]

As the amber light of the dawn began to cascade over the courtyard it illuminated the few figures that had been there throughout the night. One figure stood quite stoicaly, his arms locked around his waist pulling his woolen shirt tight. The man was seemingly unfazed by the beginning of a new day, of a new chance to learn from the most legendary teachers to walk the earth. Even as approaching footsteps moved towards the figure, he remained unmoved, whether he was uninterested in them or didn't notice was unknown until a subtle snoring noise fell from his lips. The presumed man was merely a boy who had fallen asleep on his feet.

Piotr had wanted to make a good impression on the school after arriving only one day before the new classes were to begin. He quickly found out when and where the sign-ups for classes would be held and promptly stood outside them all night. Not taking into consideration the long journey he had been on, nor the last time he'd had a good nights rest he forced himself to stand in one place and wait for his new teachers to arrive. Then it would be Piotr who would be the first to step forward and sign up for his classes.

But now he merely stood in the center of an evergrowing crowd, his jaw agape, his snore growing steadily more audible and slowly but surely he was leaning to the right, drifting down towards the soft earth below. At least somewhere in his subconscious he hoped it was soft.

[Raiden]

"Sir Thomas. Sir Thomas, please awaken."

The stuffy servant stood over the sleeping body of a young man in bed. The teen's hair was messily covering his head, and his eyes were gently closed in sleep. But through the constant pleading of the servant, the young man's eyelids opened to reveal a piercing blue. The servant smiled.

"Good morning, sir. It's about time to go sign-up for the academy. The bathwater has been heated, and your toiletry supplies have been laid out."

The teenager gave out a quiet thank you, and slowly got out of be. The servant bowed, and left the room.

A little less than an hour later, he joined his servant outside the building. His longer messy hair was now clean and combed to a straight hanging down, and his puffy white shirt was popular amongst the nobles at the time. The servant gave a smile when he saw Thomas approach.

"You look like a noble should, Sir Thomas."

Thomas gave out another quiet thank you, and followed the servant to the sign-ups.

[Mesden]

A thumping came to Carolina's door, but before the wake up call could come, she had already opened it, holding her clothes.

With a smile, she quickly strutted off to the girl's showers. Her fast walking pace led her there sooner than most and after a quick shower and a change of clothes, she was off to the sign ups.

[Incendius]

Aledan was already awake by the time that the call had come. He was a farm boy, used to waking up at dawn or before. When the call had come, he had been sitting on the roof of his dorm watching the sunrise and thinking.

Aledan when the call came get off the roof after a moment more of contemplating, and then started walking slowly down the road towards the sigh ups, enjoying the scene of all the just awakened people.

[Abeni]

At the crack of dawn Jennifer's internal clock woke her up. She was used to getting up this early, usually having to be at the docks early enough to send off her brother. She dressed in her usual outfit after taking a shower, then paused at her dresser for her lucky charms bracelet and her locket.

She looked for a moment at the open locket, there were two men shown inside. One was scruffy looking, with cropped light brown hair and an x-shaped scar over his right eye, he was grinning out at her. The other was darker looking, wearing a black leather shirt with his long dark brown hair tied back and a slight smirk on his face. "Wish me luck guys..." She donned the locket and bracelet and grabbed a biscut before heading down to the sign ups.

It was pretty crowded down there. As she was inching her way through the crowd she tripped over something soft and barely managed to stop from falling on her face. It was a body, some guy with a stubbly chin, and he was snoring. She stared at him, a little dumbfounded, then poked him tentatively. "Um... did you want to sign up? 'Cause... they're kinda getting ready to do that... now... so, you might want to, you know... wake up."

[Armored Bishoujo]

Elena Hertzfinct, daughter of nobleman Richard Hertzfinct and one of his mistresses, awaited someone who would organize the gathering bunch of academy freshmen and get things rolling along. Her unique jet black eyes (from her father) scanned the other people with disinterest while she ran a loose hand through her blonde hair (from her mother). Her expression was one who wasn't looking forward to what was to come but yet wanted things to get moving along. Elena was wearing the same comfortable white cloth and brown tanned leather traveling gear that left her slender shoulders, skinny arms, smooth torso, and long legs exposed to the refreshing chill offered by the shade from where she stood.

[Elminster_Amaur]

Tai son of Rheed son of Ghon was just re-entering the Academy grounds when he saw the small crowd gathering. As quietly as he could, he joined the ranks of his fellow students. The ridiculus stories about his people hiding in made by a rise of the ground a dog wouldn't notice were well cultivated rumors that gave his people an advantage by keeping their enemies awake all night, while his people got a great night's sleep. Since he did not want to ruin all the work his clan and others had put into nursing those tall-tales, he walked out of the shadows, and scared a nearby student. "I see you, stranger. I am Tai son of Rheed son of Ghon, but you may call me Tai."

[neyo the king]

BANG BANG BANG!

Steve Godrun mumbled something incoherent in his sleep. He was having an to good a dream to wake up now.

Well, he was trying to have one, anyway.

BANG BANG BANG!

"Would ya git up already? Ye don't wan ta be late fer class sign-ups, do ye!?"

"Alright, alright. I'm up." Steve yawns, getting up and scratching his head. He hears the man at the door walk away. Good riddance, thought Steve, this was one of the best night's sleeps I've had in a while...

He yawned again, grabbed his clothes, then went out to get to the boy's shower room. He hurried up considerably when he saw everyone else rushing around.

Cleaned and dressed, he runs to the courtyard, and the crowd amassing there.

"Maybe I should have thought more on what I would sign up for, and less on sleep..." he sighs to himself, as he elbows his way to the front, just missing some sleeping guy. He wanted to be one of the first to sign up, just in case classes started to fill.

[TheBlindMime]

As it turned out, the dirt that had been below Piotr was quite stiff and unyielding. He could tell this by what felt like a bruise forming in his shoulder. As his unfocused eyes caught a girl who was sitting before him, at first he could only see a greenish blob with a small reddish blob on top of it. As his eyes came into focus Piotr found himself with a beautiful girl kneeling beside him. His dark brown eyes were locked upon hers.

Though he hadn't seen many women in his lifetime, he assumed that the girl who had taken the time to check on him was probably one of the most beautiful women in the world. Had Piotr been a little older or if he had come to the school for a different reason he would have said something more affectionate then what he did say, "Thank you for waking me, twas a long night. Good day."

Wiping the drool from his chin Piotr moved to his feet and sifted himself into the crowd. He had just stared a temptation in the face and walked away, I can let nothing hold me from my studies. Piotr's thoughts echoed through his groggy mind, he found himself having to reaffirm his plan forcibly in his sleepless state. I will become the most powerful sorcerer, regardless of the cost... Running his rather large hand over his eyes and through his long black hair Piotr couldn't help but realize that sometimes that cost included breakfast.

[IHateMakingNames]

Outside of the dorms, near a patch of trees, a little wild boy was sleeping. Khan had been dropped off at the academy two weeks ago. At first, he tried to escape, but soon realized he was to far from his clan and couldn't track his way back. Then he returned to the academy because he couldn't catch his own food, and needed to eat.

For the next week he lived around the school, raiding the mess hall every now and then, and trying to figure out what to do. He didn't understand the language everyone spoke, but he picked up a few words from the time he was captured by the merchants and his time spent at the academy. He gradually accepted the people at Ingenium to be his new clan, though he was reluctant to live with them.

The academy didn't have anyone who could understand Khan, since he spoke something only used in his clan. They sent out some people to try and find some one from his clan to talk to Khan, but have been unable to locate them yet.

The students gathering to sign up for classes were causing a lot of commotion, which woke Khan up. Seeing the students gathering, Khan assumed something important was happening in the clan. So, he grabbed his pick-ax and headed towards the sign up area.

[Mauve Mage]

Emma was already awake when the knocking came at her door.

"You awake in there?" came a voice; a not-entirely-happy voice. Emma looked over at the door from where she stood at her dresser, fixing her hair and clothes as best she could with the aid of the small hand-mirror she had brought from home.

"Yes I am, thank you," she replied politely. She wanted to make a good first impression with the staff of the acadamy, although it seemed as though this particular individual could care less about Emma's manners.

"Ye'd better be down at the sign-ups right quick, girl," the voice grumbled. "Won't be waitin' fer you ta fix yer hair." Heavy footsteps marked his departure, followed soon after by another round of yelling and door-pounding down the hall.


Moments later, the girl found herself entering the courtyard. There were already quite a few students waiting to sign up for classes, so she quietly made her way through the crowd.

[Raiden]

Thomas stood alone in the courtyard. The servant had left him, on the quiet order of the young master.

He had a strange look on his face. Some might think it was arrogance, being surrounded by those of a lower class than himself. Others would think it was exhaustion. Even more would think he was shy. He was none of those things.

He was....just quiet.

[Truce]

Curel was somewhere in the crowd, though he wasn't sure where. He mind was busy thinking about what his mother wanted him and, more importantly, what he wanted for himself. He knew that she would want him to become a sorcerer and follow the path she had taken, and the concepts didn't seem difficult to him but...

Magic really didn't interest him, at least not more than anything else did.

[Mauve Mage]

Emma tried to look over the heads of her fellow students, but couldn't see what was happening up ahead. She frowned and put her hands at her hips. What if she was in the wrong line? She didn't want to start out the school year trying to fix some horrible mistake.

Name: Emma Fletcher.
Intended Major: Arrow Fodder

She smiled at the grimly funny thought. She had better find out what was going on. The easiest way would probably be to ask her fellow classmates, she supposed.

There were several other students up ahead, just sort of standing, like she was. They all looked quite bored, or at least busy thinking of something else. One seemed to be wandering aimlessly, not really paying attention to much of anything. Another, nobility by the looks of his clothing, wore an expression that Emma couldn't place. Boredom? Disdain? Who knew? Yet another seemed to have simply fallen off the roof. Probably not the most talkative group, Emma thought, but she needed some information and they were the people closest to her. Clearing her throat politely, she stepped forward.

"Excuse me," she said. "This is going to sound somewhat stupid of me to ask, but does anyone know what's going on up there, or where we're supposed to sign up for classes?"

[Truce]

Emma's voice pulled Curel back to reality, reminding him that he himself had no clue what was going on. It was really sad, since he was sure his mother had lectured him exactly where to go and what teacher to sign up for, but at the time he hadn't really been concerned.

However, he had arrived a couple weeks earlier, and had heard stories from the upperclassmen. One said that you simply signed up for them (though, he couldn't remember how), another said that there would be some sort of test (again, he wasn't really interested at the time), and another said that they would have to wear a smelly old hat that would sort them into classes (this one...he was pretty sure was just a stupid lie).

In the end, he turned to Emma and shrugged. "Who knows? A creepy guy just walked into my room and told me to come here, so..."

[neyo the king]

Steve had slowed down, now that it was evident that he wasn't late. In fact, he was suddenly glad that he wasn't early. He could imagine the early birds standing in the middle of the courtyard, only to be trampled into the ground by this mess.

Ah, well, might as well mingle. He thinks to himself, and proceeds to scan the crowd for somone to chat with.

[Ryu Kurai]

Infisil kicked his horse, struggling to hold on as the nearly 1000 pound beast sped up. Well, technically, it hadn't been his horse last night. Served whoever right for not tying up their horse. She was a real beauty too, light brown fur and a white mane. She reminded him of a clidesdale almost. You just need to hold on to valuable posessions like these He thought to himself, thinking about the ten gold he had lifted from a woman's purse three nights ago. She had been careless too, and her carelessness was going to get him into the magic school. According to his sources, today was the day he needed to sign up for classes. He said "Yah," spurring the horse again, lightly. The school's massive walls came up into view, and he remarked at how brightly the sun was shining. He squinted, coming up to the wall and gate.

"Let me through, I'm here to take classes." He said simply to the guard. The guard gave him a quick once-over, then waved and nodded up to the gate's operator on top of the wall. The huge gates creaked open, and he patted his horse softly on the flank and ushered her inside. He quickly spotted another guard on patrol. "You, there, my good man." He said, urging his horse to a stop in front of the guard. He quickly lept down from his horse with its reins in hand and reached into one of his pockets, pulling out a gold piece. "Take my horse to the stables, if you would." He said in an important voice, putting the gold into the bewildered guard's hand and clasping his hands over it, as though to keep the gold there against its will.

"Um... Alright." The guard said, stuffing the coin in his pocket and moving to take the horse's reins from Infisil. He pulled them away slightly.

"Also, which way do I got to sign up for classes?" He said, locking eyes with the guard. The guard pointed towards the courtyard.

"It's, uh, over that way." He said simply, still a bit confused about what had just happened.

"Thank you very much kind fellow." Infisil said, tipping his head forwards slightly and setting off at fast jog towards the sign-up line. I love how they're so easy to manipulate. After I learn about this power as well, I bet they'll be even easier. Imagine picking someone's pocket from across the room, or reading a general's mind before he uses his plan in battle! I'll make millions! He thought these things as he found the line and got in back of it, crossing his arms and looking at the pockets of the people in front of him to see if they were a bit too heavy.

[Krylo]

As the crowd gathered it became evident that this was a larger group than most months, which, of course, meant more work for the teachers, but it also meant that there would be more students to take on odd jobs around the school--helping with blacksmithing, carpentry, cooking, and hunting. The year would certainly be prosperous.

These were the thoughts running through the mind of Irving Egandvil, the school's dean and propietor, as he watched the students gather and begin to mingle, a low murmur overcoming crowd as they became anxious for the day to begin in truth. Many couldn't wait much longer to begin their training, and others just didn't wish to stand much longer.

So far the students had not noticed him, standing high on a balcony on the building in front of them--one of the many training arenas, which was currently being used for sign-ups, and this was fine by him. He wasn't quite ready to speak yet.

After waiting several minutes for what appeared to be the vast majority of the arrivals to show up, Irving spoke, his voice booming over the crowd louder than should be possible--a simple spell he had picked up over the years, "WELCOME!"

He waited another few moments for the students to silence themselves and turn their gaze to his elderly--though still imposing--form, and then continued his speech, his voice no longer magically empowered, although still strong enough to be easily heard by the mass of students, "I see before me not the huddled masses, not the dirty peasants, not the haughty nobles, and not the poor farmers which ye were before. I do not see before me the rich, or the poor. I do not see the privledged or the poverty striken. I see before me here today only potential! Limitless potential! I see before me the heros and the legends of tomorrow! No longer shall you be farmers, or diplomats! Ingenium shall forge you into greatness!"

Many of the students--mostly the poor and impoverished, whom were unused to being treated better than dirt--let up a cheer at his words which filled them with hope for the future. He waited for them to calm themselves, his hands held out gesturing for quiet, and then spoke again, "Whether ye be here to seek vengence, wealth, or greatness... or even to be a protector of the people, soon your dreams shall be realized!"

Another short spout of cheers, mostly from the same, though now it was a bit quieter, and again he gestured for silence before speaking, "However, such greatness does not come easily. There are rules which must be abided by, and hardships which must be overcome! Firstly, I see that there are a few nobles in our midst today, and, naturally, their families have sent servants along to help them. However, those servants can only get in the way of your training. This is a time to overcome hardship through your own wit and muscle, as such, your servants are, at this moment, being sent home!"

As he spoke, sure enough, a few guards were moving through the crowds and politely escorting away three or four personal servants--amongst them Elena's. Thomas's servant, in the meanwhile had been caught on the way back to the dorms and sent away.

Irving, however, continued speaking, "Further, many of you came with your own weapons and armor, and all with clothes--or at least I hope you came with your own clothes!" he waited a moment for a laugh that never came and then continued quickly, "After today you will all be assigned uniforms based on your progress through the training, any clothing or armor is to be kept in your rooms and only worn on personal excursions outside the school grounds! Further, any and all weapons shall be assigned to you by the school, and you are to use only these in any school activities. Again, you may only use what you brought on personal excursions! This is to ensure that no one is cheated from proper training by allowing their equipment to do the work, and to be certain no one is unduly left behind due to shoddy weaponry! This policy has been shown, in the past, to produce markedly superior warriors! Further, as first years you are all required to take at least four basic weapons classes, and two non-weapon classes. The other two are up to your own discretion. All other rules are posted on the large stone tablet in the center of the school grounds, I suggest you read them once you have signed up for classes. Welcome once more to Ingenium! You come here as masses of untapped potential, but you shall leave as the legends of tomorrow!"

With that the Dean turned and walked back into the building, and the doors of the arena on the bottom opened, revealing dozens of tables manned by students wearing more advanced uniforms. About half were sign-ups for classes, the others sign-ups for school jobs.

[Tarrin]

Johann stood in the courtyard, The cheshire like smile still plastered apon his face.
Only moments before he had walked into his room to find an old man lying on his back in the middle of the floor. Obviously he hadent seen Johann's hammock when he stormed in to wake him up.

Absently, Johann stroked his beard (all three hairs), he already knew which classes he'd be signing up for.
Magical Items I (1)
Magical Theory I (2)
Magical Creation I (3)
Practical Magic I (4)

That left four periods to study his weapons.
Axe Combat (5)
Spears (6)
Closed fist (7)
Wrestling (8)

Yes! that's it, thats the classes i'll go for. Johann thought still stroking his non-existant beard, Then the deans speach finnished.

[neyo the king]

After the dean left, it was a mad dash to the sign-up sheets, everyone excited to finally get started. Steve, while not exactly at the front, was pretty dang close, and it was no time until he got to his turn.

Now he really wished he had considered what he wanted to take before hand.

He scans the list quickly, looking for something to catch his eye.

Axes? Nah, too much physical strength required. What was it the dean said? four basic weapons classes and... two non-weapon classes? OK, um...

The person behind Steve was starting to get mad. He obviously knew what he wanted to sign up for, and he was showing it, with throat-clearing and elbow-jabbing and whatnot.

Alright... um... Negotiation sounds cool... and Infiltration, why not? That's two non-weapon, so... weapons... I'll take... um... Unorthodox sounds helpful in tight situations... Closed Fist, when unarmed... Long Archery, so I won't even have to get close... and... Knife Fighting to round it all up.

Steve signs the sheet with his requested classes, and his schedule looks something like this:

Closed Fist ------- |1|
Alchemy ---- |2|
Unorthodox ------- |3|
Staff ------- |4|
Knife Fighting ----- |5|
Infiltration -------- |6|
Negotiation ------- |7|
Open Gym ------- |8|

Happy with this, he moves to the job sheet, much to the relief of the guy behind him.

OOC: Too lazy to change the noraml text, only the list is changed.

[Ryu Kurai]

Infisil at first scoffed at this old man as the poor cheered him on. Why give them encouragement when odds were that they would either drop out or fail? They were only poor because they didn't have the wit to take what they could. He did, however, grin a bit as the noble's servants were taken away. He was a bit angered that he couldn't even wear his own clothing, but that wouldn't stop him from stealing from the local townsfolk. He simply moved forwards through the crowd, using the motion almost to his advantage once or twice, but he decided against purloining anyone's belongings. He would be with these people for a while, and only a fool would befriend someone with a grudge against him. He headed towards one of the tables that appeared to be sign-ups for classes. He would have tried cutting in line several times, but in all cases the stopped party began moving again quickly. Everyone seemed exited, and he didn't blame them. They were, after all, about to start wielding pwer spoken of only in fairy tales and history. His perpetual scowl alleviated slightly, then returned as the person in front of him took a bit too long advancing in line because she was talking to the man in front of her.

"Hey! Head up, eyes forward and walk!" He said in an irritated and commanding voice. The woman seemed more than a bit flustered as she turned and did as she was told.

Shortly afterwards he reached the sign-up table. He looked over the magical table and decided that he'd take two of the courses offered there. He had always wanted to dabble in knife fighting and fencing, so he decided to sign up for those too. An impatient throat cleared behind him. "Yeah, well you missed your chance, just wait a minute." He grumbled back. After some quick scrawling, his sign-up sheet had the following classes written on it.

Closed Fist (1)
Open Fist (2)
Magical Creation I (3)
Fencing (4)
Knife Fighting (5)
Infiltration (6)
Practical Magic I (7)
Magic Theory I (8)

It was going to be a full year, but he should have enough time left over to re-allocate the funds of some of the more fortunate townspeople, and maybe some of the students if he really needed to..

[Krylo]

(OOC: please check the sign-up thread before picking classes, and those who already picked please read it. I'm sorry for the misunderstanding.)

[Raiden]

Thomas showed no differing emotion to his servant being sent away. He knew he wouldn't be allowed to keep him. He didn't even try to convince his parents otherwise, though, since they were adamant that the servant was sent.

He walked forward to sign-ups.

Endurance Training--[1]
Archery (long) ------[2]
Broad Swords -------[3]
Fencing-------------[4]
Free Class-----------[5]
Junior Guard---------[6]
Practical Magic I-----[7]
Open Gym-----------[8]

[Truce]

Curel decided that he would do as his mother said, and take the magician classes. At the same time though, he knew that he also had to sign up for four weapon classes and signed up on what seemed to be the least crowded of the lists.

1. Magical Items
2. Magical Theory I
3. Magical Creation I
4. Practical Magic I
5. Spears
6. Battle Axe
7. Halberd
8. Archery (Short)

Then he decided to signed up for an equestarian job, for a little money on the side.

[TheBlindMime]

Piotr couldn't wait to move into place to sign-up, he even elbowed and faked a few coughs after the jerk in front of him starting taking to long. It took him only a moment before he put together the schedule that would be his first step towards avenging those he had lost.

[1] Magical Items I The class is taught once per day, I must take it then
[2] Archery (long) With my large size and strength the long bow would be the best for me.
[3] Magical Creation I is a must for me as well.
[4] Fencing would be a good addition to defense, if I tire from spellcasting.
[5] Spears One day my life may count on the use of a polearm.
[6] Battle Axe Once again my natural size and strength would add to my skill in this weaponry.
[7] Practical Magic I Experience in the field will be neccessary for me to defeat opposing mages.
[8] Magical Theory I Without a large knowledge base in the mechanic's of magic I'll never become an accomplished mage.

Feeling very accomplished as he walked away from the sign-up table Piotr marched over towards the section of job sign-ups. While he'd left no time in his schedule open, he hoped that there would be some late job he could take up, giving him some free time after his classes but before work. But such a thing would be a luxury, and those he had almost never had in his life.

[Mauve Mage]

Emma stepped up to the table and scanned through the available courses. She quickly signed up for two archery courses, long and short. Exactly what she was looking for. Crossbows held little appeal; her family worked with the more traditional bows. Instead, she took fencing and knife fighting as her additional two weapon courses. Nice, lightweight weapons that an archer might use.

Soon, her schedule looked something like this:

[1] magical items
[2] archery, long
[3] magical creation
[4] fencing
[5] knife fighting
[6]
[7] Practical Magic
[8] archery, short

Period 6 was something of a problem. There was no way Emma would be strong enough to handle a spear or battle axe, and infiltration didn't sound particularly appealing, either. She considered keeping that time as a free period, but then she saw the advertisement below the schedule.

FLETCHING. PAYS 3 GOLD COINS/HOUR

She smiled. The job was practically made for her. Her family had been making bows and arrows for generations, hence her surname, Fletcher. She could start right away; she didn't need job training. Emma wouldn't mind the extra money at all. Her family, although not poor by merchant's standards, wasn't nobility. Even if it was only one hour during the day, she could probably fit in some extra hours after class if she tried. And even if she couldn't, three extra gold coins a day was nothing to sneeze at.

Emma quickly signed up for the job.

[The_Phat_G]

William had listened to the dean's speech from under the nearby tree he had spent the night under. It had been far too lovely an evening to sleep indoors. A small smile played across his face as the guards escorted away the servents of the young nobles. He stood up slowly and took a long stretch. He shook his head a little, making his tossled hair fall back into its usual place before strolling into the crowd, arriving near the back of the line. There was no need to rush and sign up, he'd get there eventually. If there was anything he'd learned from his three years on the road, it was that rushing only caused unnecessary stress. He pulled a wrinkled piece of paper from the sleeve of his cloak; a list of classes that he'd asked for shortly after arriving last week. He mulled over which classes he'd sign up for once he finally reached the front of the line.

1.) Open --- Will liked to sleep in, so he decided it best not to take a class so early.
2.) Open Fist --- He'd heard a lot about unarmed fighting arts, and the philosophies behind it fascinated him, and he was eager to give it a try.
3.) Staff --- Being on the road for three years, you more often than not found yourself with a walking stick. Being able to utilize it might come in handy.
4.) Practical Magic I --- Magic had never interested him terribly, but he figured that getting to know the basics could come in handy. Besides, it was required.
5.) Wilderness Survival --- No harm in picking up a few new tricks for the road.
6.) Spears --- It couldn't too different from staves, could it? Oh well, he'd find out soon.
7.) Closed Fist --- Will took this to round out his schedule, and unarmed skills.
8.) Open --- Start late, end early. A splendid idea from Will's point of view. Besides, with only six classes, he shouldn't get too overloaded with homework, and would have plenty of time to practice in the afternoon.

After he'd decided on his classes, Will looked up and saw that he was still rather far from the front of the line. He sighed and scratched his head. To help pass the time, he struck up a conversation with the boy in line ahead of him.

[Mesden]

Like the others, she followed through to the sign up tables and examined the list, picking out what was most interesting to her.

Lessee now... Crossbows sound fun, as well as a bit of magic here and there. Alright...Fencing, that seems like it would be worthwhile. Alright, now for second I can go with whips. Kickboxing...I can do that. Alright, then a free period. What's next? Spears, no. Clubs, hell no. Ooh, a cooking job? That, I know I can do. That's good. And then some magic. Alright, I think that works.


1: Crossbows
2: Whips
3: Kick boxing
4: Fencing
5: Free period
6: Cooking job
7: Practical Magic I
8: Magical Theory I

She looked over her sheet once more. All seemed well. Get the physical activities done early and then some rest for a free block, go do some easy baking and then the magic would start. Literally. She was in line earlier than most and was soon handing in her form.

(I'll take being early in line since all of you are so far back. What's the chances of EVERYONE in our little group getting shoved to the back? The job is there because Krylo said he was sure it would, even though not on the list. If it doesn't go to the 6th hour, then I'll chang it around. But I'm assuming it would for dinner making purposes.)

[Incendius]

Aledan looked down at the sheet in his hand and muttered. "Inspiring speach, I think I will grow to like it here, though..." For some moments Aledan continued to stare down at his sheet, once in a while reaching up and scractching his head as he thought. Finally he exhaled a large breath and just shrugged, there was nothing he could do to fix his problem himself. Looking up he glanced around at the assorted gatherings and found people who had a sign up sheet and were filling it out. So he walked closer to the largest gathering of new years and said somewhat hesitantly to them interjecting into their thoughts and conversations "Um, sorry to bother you all but... I sort of, don't know how to... um I mean to say I um. I can't read. Can, err anyone help me with this sign up sheet?"

[Abeni]

The boy left and she stared after him, that was a little odd, she thought. At that moment she heard a loud voice and the Dean started speaking. After describing the school and how awesome they were all going to be, she waited in line for the sign ups.

There were only four magic courses, so she was fine there and wouldn't miss any, but she had no idea what to take for weapons classes. She remembered Aylward had taken archery, so she would take that too. The bigger weapons were really not to her style though, so she also went with weapons with a little more finesse.

[1]Magical Items I
[2]Archery (long)
[3]Magical Creation I
[4]Fencing
[5]Knife Fighting
[6]Throwing
[7]Practical Magic I
[8]Magical Theory I

She also saw a list of jobs, under it one that required taking care of horses. She used to hold horses for travelers, so it wouln't be a bad idea to make some spare gold. She signed up for that as well.

Just then a tall boy with curly hair came over to the group huddled near her and asked for help reading the sign up. She called to him.

"Over here. I'll help you out, what are you interested in?"

[Armored Bishoujo]

Elena considered her options and set up her plan after roughly eight minutes. Her mother had told her that she could be what she wanted to be. Her father had told her that she was worthless in any other way except unless she became the girl he commanded her to be. Elena decided that she would definitely have a thing or two to show her father when she returned. She wouldn't become the broken, simple-minded lady that he expected of her, nor would she become the kind of girl she wanted to be, but people in need were rarely people with choices.

1: Archery (Crossbow)
2: Open Fist
3: Unorthodox
4: Claws
5: Wilderness Survival
6: Infiltration
7: Free Period
8: Fletching

And that was it. It seemed like quite a set up for any girl bound for hardships and loneliness if Elena did everything as she planned.

[Incendius]

"Oh thank you very much for helping me" Aledan said very hurridly and stepped forward towards the girl. Though, as he did so he almost tripped over a rock. Luckily he caught his balance and was able to stumble forward to a stop, though his face was somewhat red. It seemed pretty obvious that the boy was somewhat clumsy and awkward.

His face still red he held the sheet up to the girl and said fast and almost jumbled together "Well, I think I'm interested in all things magical, though its not cause I have a fancy or daydream about it, just that even though I'm not learned really, I like to think and to create things and change things, and this seems to be the best outlet there would be for that."

Stopping to catch his breath after he said that in only a moment, Aledan then proceeded to go on of his description "For the weapon catagories, I was thinking of signing up for staff lessons, as I already know how to use it from when I was working as a shepherd. Then maybe, um, I would, uh say doing spears."

A smull nervous chuckle came out of his lips and he lowered his head a bit as he muttered the reason for that "Cause ysee, my father took me hunting once, even though it was illegal, the local lord didn't want anyone hunting in his woods, but we did it and caught a deer killing it with our spears. It was really fun and all, and we got to eat some good meat for once."

"Anywho" he said continuing his somewhat long description "I think I want to sign up for some of that... what was it called, the fighting with thing where you throw your opponent, cause really I'm not that strong and all and that would suit me more then using any of the noble weapons such as swords. Oh ya, it was open palm or something like that"

Through all the last parts of his descriptions he hadn't stopped to take a breath, he seemed to almost not run on air the way he was narrating. "Next... I think the last thing that would be best is that there, is knife fighting, as ynow how you allways need a knife no matter what, even if its just for eating and it would be good to always have around and be able to use it"

"And um... I think thats it. Really uh, err thanks for helping me, it was really nice of you. Oh and umm my name, is er Aledan, its nice to meat you" He said and outstretched his hand tentatively to shake the girls in meeting.

(OOC: The order I think would be
Magical Items I
Open Fist
Magical Creation I
Staff
Knife
Spears
Practical Magic I
Magical Theory I

That is if all the will tests are passed)

[Elminster_Amaur]

Tai looked over the class list and times, and eventually worked out this schedule:

[1] Magical Items I
[2] Open Fist
[3] Staves
[4] Leadership
[5] Knife fighting
[6] Spears
[7] Practical Magic I
[8] Magical Theory I

Tai then wandered off to go find breakfast.

[neyo the king]

Steve wanderd off around into the school grounds. He decided to grab a bite to eat before focusing on a job. He wandered around, looking here, there, and all over the place, just soaking up the schoolgrounds when he noticed something.

"Dang, now I'm lost."

He looked around, trying to find a sign or something, when he noticed a young man who had the look and step of one of the desert people. He had seen a group of them one time at his parent's shop. He notes that this one has a veil on his left ear, and wonders why it's not over his face, like the ones at the shop.

Steve shook these thoughts from his mind and ran toward the man.

"Hey, excuse me, do you know where the food is?"

[Tarrin]

The smells of the cafeteria washed over johanns face, bacon,eggs and freashly baked bread where the most notable scents to reach him.
Moving through the line that had slowly started to form Johann couldn't help but try a little of everything he had previously smelled.
Filling his plate Johann headed out towards the seating area, now to find a good place to sit.

[Abeni]

She giggled when he tripped but hid it as he approached her. He started talking really fast, and it took her a minute to catch up. He told her what he wanted to be in, which was similar to what she wanted, and he thanked her for her help and said his name was Aledan, then extended his hand to shake.

She took it, smiling. "Don't worry about it, it's no problem. I'm Jennifer Tarien, just call me Jenn, I'm taking magic classes too. So lets see here... you wanted knife fighting... spears, staffs..." She ran her finger down the list. "And I guess throwing would be Open fist, that would be... second period," she began writing the classes down. "Magic Items first, Magical creation third, staffs would be fourth, fifth is knife fighting, spears sixth, and seventh and eighth would be practical magic and magical theory. How does that sound?" She was about to hand him his schedule to check but then remembered he couldn't read.

She checked it over herself one more time. "That looks about right. I'm in some of your classes, so if you need more help then just call me." She smiled and handed him his schedule.


(OOC: I think I copied the schedule right...)

[IHateMakingNames]

OOC: This post happens after everyone else's, including those who have yet to post abou signing up.

IC:

During the sign-ups, Khan stayed on the outside of the group, watching what everyone was doing. He hadn't understood what the old man from above had said, so he decided to watch the rest of his clan to figure out what to do.

When the last few people were signing up, Khan was watching them write from under their shoulders, since he was shorter then everyone. Once they were done, Khan went up to the table the last student was at. He wasn't sure what to do, but he knew he had to use the little stick and rub it against the white suares.

The advanced student at the table just stared at Khan, confused. He leaned over to the closest student. "What is this kid doing?"

"He can't read, write, or understand us. Don't worry, they've already made a special schedule for him. Since he's wild, they're going to take him hunting, since it's something he's used to. I think they'll have him carve to. Then he comes back around third period, and a teacher will help him learn our language somehow. Then he'll be in wilderness survival, clubs, closed fist, and wrestling, since he's porbably been trained in those already, so they think it will help him figure out more."

While the more knowledgable student explained what would happen to Khan, the wild boy had finished his sign-up. All he had done was scribble all over the paper, then placed it on the table and walked away.

OOC: Khan's schedule

Early - Period 2: Hunting/Carving Job
Period 3-4: Common language lessons/Free roaming
Period 5: Wilderness Survival
Period 6: Clubs
Period 7: Closed Fist
Period 8: Wrestling

[Aerozord]

There was an obvious crowd gathering around for scheduling. Through it all Allen weaved through them, those that he couldn't he pushed aside. Thinking 'why is there always a crowd?' He scratched his head as he thought about his classes. "Wonder if I can get into the more advanced martial arts classes. I have been training for years after all."

Finally he reached the sign-ups. "lets see...hand to hand...hand to hand", he uttered while his eyes scanned down the lists. "Ok, think some basic magic. Enhancing magic...". His words muttered to no one in particular as he thought over his classes. The end result was
(1) Endurance Training
(2) open fist
(3) Unorthodox
(4) Language study
(5) Strength Training
(6) Throwing
(7) Closed Fist
(8) Magical Theory I

ooc: hope that schedule works

[Elminster_Amaur]

Tai stopped, and turned toward the person calling him. "I see you strange one. I am Tai, son of Rheed, son of Ghon, but you may call me Tai. I am heading to what they call the 'Mess Hall' now. You may come with me if you wish" Tai pauses for the stranger to name himself.

[neyo the king]

Steve caught up with Tai, introduced himself.

"Hello, Tai, son of Rheed, son of Ghon. I am Steve Godrun, son of Frank Godrun, son of..." Steve stopped. He really couldn't ever remember his relitaves names. "Just call me Steve." He finishes, extending his hand in an offered handshake.

[Elminster_Amaur]

Tai took Steve's hand in his and said "May you always find shade and water Steve Godrun." He then continued toward the Mess Hall.

[Mauve Mage]

Now that she had finished signing up for classes, Emma wasn't certain what she was supposed to do next. She could probably go back to her room and finish unpacking, but that didn't sound particularly appealing.

Her stomach growled. She was reminded that she hadn't eaten much breakfast that morning. Well, there was an idea. Following the smell of eggs and bacon, Emma wandered off towards where she hoped the Mess Hall would be.

[TheBlindMime]

When Piotr arrived at the job table he couldn't believe his luck. 6 gold an hour for farming?! Piotr had never been more ready to sign anything when something hit him. I'm here to learn all I can so that I can avenge my family, farming is a skill that wont help me do that. His eyes steadily drew up the page until they found the job he had always wondered about.

Blacksmithing, my uncle was a blacksmith. He seemed to enjoy it, and he told me of the amazing weapons he had forged. Though the only things I had ever saw him make was horseshoes. Piotr quickly inked his name upon the blacksmithing list. At the least he would one day be able to forge his own weapon, perhaps at that time with his magical knowledge he would forge a special weapon.

A short time later Piotr marched to a table and set down a rather large plate of eggs, bacon and toast. Then showing his social status he began shoving the food into his mouth by hand... rather loudly.

[Tarrin]

Johann looked across at the large boy who was shoveling eggs by the dozen into his mouth.
"Well atleast he's enjoying it" Johann thought, Extending his hand across the table he welcomed his new arrival.
"I am Johann! and you are?", The broad smile on Johann's face still there since the mornings events.

[Armored Bishoujo]

Elena wasn't a breakfast girl. A morning girl, yes, but not a breakfast girl. She usually didn't have her first meal until around noon. Still, she hadn't eaten anything since early afternoon, yesterday. She could wait until noon anyways, but decided that with her schedule set, she better get used to eating meals when she wasn't hungry.
Finding the mess hall and gathering breakfast, Elena quickly got to work cutting and scrambling the food items into one big and rather tasty-looking pile. A small prayer later, Elena was eating efficiently and quietly at a somewhat antisocial distance from the others.

[Incendius]

"Thank you, uhh, Jenn for helping me, its been good to meet you. I err think I should go to class now, though I don't know if you have the same one as me as well. I already ate breakfast a while back so I'm not hungry, if you want, and you have the class, would you walk with me there?" Aledan said hurridly even as he took the paper and stepped back, of course almost tripping once again.

[Raiden]

As the others shuffled into the Mess Hall, they'd be hard pressed to notice Thomas sitting there eating. He had come in before the others after signing up, and hadn't done anything to attract attention to himself.

He quietly ate his meal with an incredible lack of interest.

[Truce]

Though he was disappointed to see so many people inside the cafeteria before him, he went into the line-complaining only a little about its size.

[neyo the king]

After thanking Tai for showing him the way, Steve went over to the tables with his plate of food in hand. Eggs, bacon, sausage, the works. Man, thought Steve, they don't hold back for their hungry students, it seems.

He scanned left, then right and then Steve noticed that he had lost where Tai was, so with a shrug and a sigh, he sits in a seemingly empty table.

It was only then did Steve notice the other guy sitting there, eating his meal with an extreme anoumt of apathy, the likes Steve has never seen before.

"Um... Hey there. I'm Steve, nice to meet you..." Steve dropped off so the stranger could introduce himself.

[Raiden]

Thomas continued to eat his meal, but looked up at Steve. He didn't have a face of interest...or disinterest, really. It was a strange look.

Then he went back to his food.

[TheBlindMime]

Piotr was a little taken aback by Johann simply introducing himself, he had expected to go a day or two before anyone introduced themselves to him. Piotr sluggishly wiped his hands clean before meeting Johanns outstretched hand with a friendly handshake, "I am Piotr Hendricks." There was an awkward pause after the handshake, Piotr realized that he needed to say something back. "What brings you to Ingenium?"

[The_Phat_G]

Will strolled into the cafeteria with the other stragglers who had been near the end of the sign up line. He hadn't signed up for a job yet, and figured that if he ended up wanting to, the teachers wouldn't mind taking on some extra help a little later. As he filled up his plate happily (breakfast was always his favorite meal), he noticed a pretty blonde girl sitting by herself and praying before she ate.

A shame, thought Will, this is far too jovial an event to be all by one's lonesome. When he finally procured a couple strips of bacon to round off his meal, he approached her.

"Top o' the mornin' lass," he said with a friendly smile, "I don't suppose you'd mind if I took a seat here, do you?"

[Mauve Mage]

Emma placed her plate down on the table and smoothed her skirt before sitting down.

She was seated at a table amongst several of the people she recognized from sign-ups, she noticed. One was trying to coerce a conversation out of the quiet, apathetic boy from before, with little success. Steve, the first boy introduced himself as. Emma thought it somewhat rude of the taller boy to ignore him like that. What was his problem? Well, somebody should answer him, to make up for the silence he got from the nobleman. Emma moved down a few seats, sitting directly across from the pair of them.

"Hullo," She said brightly to Steve. "Is this seat taken? Sorry if I'm intruding, but I don't know anyone here yet and I recognized you two from the sign ups. I was just behind you in line. That means you're first-years too, yes?" She held out a hand. "My name's Emma. Emma Fletcher." She smiled and waited for either of them to respond.

[Sithdarth]

Zane's morning had not been quite so easy as most of the other students. He had gotten up in plenty of time but beinging short just wasn't fun sometimes. Several times he had been pushed backwards, and even to the ground, while standing in the crowd of students. It was one of the few things that mad him truely angry but he held his temper for now. After the speech he had been able to sign-up towards the end of the line without much trouble. After that he headed over to the mess hall.

After being pushed around all morning Zane was prime for a little revenge and used his small size and speed to cut in line several times. Despite how late he had been signing up for classes he still managed to get his breakfest fairly soon. Seeing a couple of guys in a conversation at a table he headed for them. As he got closer he noticed one had been literally digging into his eggs. Now that's my kind of guy, thought Zane as he finally reached the table. As he sat down he introduced himself, "The names Zane and if you mention my height right now you'll be taking a nap for a bit. Oh and nice to meet you."

[Tarrin]

"Piotr, It is good to meet you" Johann affirmed, though his pronunciation of the name was a little off.
"I am here to learn..." Johann had just started his explanation when another boy interupted.
"The names Zane and if you mention my height right now you'll be taking a nap for a bit. Oh and nice to meet you."

"Welcome Zane, I am Johann?" Johann outstreached his hand to the newcomer.

[Sithdarth]

Zane flushed a little and took the outstretched hand. "Sorry bout that; I've had a rough morning and I don't take to kindly to cracks about my height. Please continue." After finishing his little speech and releasing the others grip he snuck a quick bite of food. He'd exchange pleasentries with the other guy at the table when Johann finished the sentance Zane had so rudely intrupted.

[Aerozord]

After signing up Allen went off to the cafeteria. Food there was decent. He grabbed a few assorted meats and fruit. Already he begins eating some of his food as he walks over to the tables. Emma caught his attention. He simply walked over and sat down next to her.

[Tarrin]

"Bah! Think nothing of it". Johann replied
"And as for your hight, when you are Piotr's and my age you will be tall".

"As i was saying i come from a village of fishermen, I figured being able to ensure the winds my people needed to make a safe passage would be a worthy task fo myself". Johann's smile grew even wider at the thought of this accomplishment.

[Sithdarth]

Zane cocked an eyebrow and cast a sidelong glare at Johann, "And just how old do you think I am?" He wasn't so much upset just a little sick of some of the assumptions people tended to make about him. It wasn't their fault he was such a shrimp though. One day he'd show them all.

[TheBlindMime]

Piotr had been idly chewing on some bacon as Johann spoke, his desire to preserve his peoples way of life was quite a task. As well as a task to be admired he had begun to wish that his goal was as admirable. That was when Zane's posture and tone changed.

"And just how old do you think I am?"

Piotr decided not to chime in again, if he did it might cause Zane to focus upon him. Piotr lazily swayed his eyes over to Johann, whatever happened next would be entertaining at the least.

[Elminster_Amaur]

Tai grabbed a large assortment of foods, since these wetlander foods weren't as bad as he'd been told when he left, and he wanted to find out exactly what his favorites were. With his plate and a half of food and glass of milk he headed over to the table Steve was sitting at with some others he had not yet met. He sat down and started with his sampling.

[neyo the king]

Wow, what a chatter box...

Steve watched the guy a little longer, when a slender woman in a blue blouse and brown skirt sat at the table with her plate.

"Hullo. Is this seat taken? Sorry if I'm intruding, but I don't know anyone here yet and I recognized you two from the sign ups. I was just behind you in line. That means you're first-years too, yes? My name's Emma. Emma Fletcher." She then held out her hand in an offered handshake.

Steve grabbed her hand and shook it, and stated "You not intruding at all, Emma Fletcher (Must... not... make... pun...). My name is Steve Godrun, and I do say that it is a pleasure to actually meet anyone in this mess." He flurished his hand to the mass of people.

"So, Emma Fletcher (Must... resist...), what brings you to Ingenium Academy, if you don't mind the intrusion in your privacy. If you'd rather not say, that's fine, too, but I myself love to talk, and talk I shall, if you don't."

He sat and waited for Emma to answer, eating his breakfast, and seeming to forget all about the apathetic man, and only slightly noticing Tai sitting at the table, giving him a frindly wave and a smile, and then turning his attention back to Emma.

[Mauve Mage]

"It's no intrusion at all," Emma replied. Steve was trying very hard not to smile at something, she noticed. Either he was mocking her politeness or he had made some kind of pun out of her name. He seemed friendly enough thusfar, though, so she did not comment.

The table had suddenly become much busier. The boy who dressed like a desert-dweller had joined them, as had another boy who had taken the seat beside her. The nobleman, however, still seemed completely oblivious to this.

"I'm afraid I don't have a particularly interesting reason for coming to the Academy," Emma said, starting to answer Steve's question. "My parents sent me here to learn some archery skills. It would have been my brother here instead of me, but he's too old now, and he's married and has a family of his own to take care of." She examined the food on her plate, slightly embarrased that the tale wasn't any more interesting.

"What about you?" she asked. "What brings you to the Academy?"

[Truce]

By the time that Curel had gotten his food, most of the seats in the cafeteria were already taken. It was quite a predicament too, since he knew quite well that cliques would start forming even today, and the last thing he wanted (or needed) was to end up alone or, even worse, be stuck with an unsavorable bunch.

It was then that he noticed Thomas. Though he didn't have the arrogance that most noblemen he had met did (nor any other particular traits, except for maybe aloofness), the man's clothes gave away his status. Thinking that, at the very least, the man would have some manners he took his seat beside him.

Opening his mouth to introduce himself, he stopped when Thomas looked up and gave him the same expression he had given Steve earlier, before returning to his meal. Suddenly shivering, and realizing that it would be too awkward to get up and change seats, Curel immediately focused on the food in front of him and began eating in silence.

Perhaps he should've tried socializing with the other people at the table. Unfortunately, that would mean having to look past Thomas, something that he didn't particularly feel like trying to do at the moment.

[Tarrin]

"And just how old do you think I am?"

The grinn that was on Johanns face dimmed, It appeared that he had upset Zane for some reason.
Johann had never seen anyone who was his age that was as small as Zane. Was it possible that Zane was older than his height belayed? Johanns head sunk and his hair fell over his face hiding his expression.

His dissapointment in himsef apparent to all around, Though most would mistake the main reason for his action.

[Mesden]

Being one of the first of the first to be done with her schedule, she was also one of the earlier students to get ti breakfast.

She didn't know anyone and no one knew her, so, she decided it best to eat her food by herself. Social interaction not being her strong point with strangers.

[Raiden]

Thomas ate his meal. Curel had sat next to him....and wasn't bothering him. For that, he got a response. Thomas spoke quietly, so that only those near him could hear, though he continued to stare at his meal.

"The food here...it's a bit dry."

[neyo the king]

Steve sat back in his chair, his meal done, and listened to Emma's tale.

After she was finished, she sat staring at her food. "What about you?" she asked. "What brings you to the Academy?" she asked him.

Steve sat forward in his chair, and answered, "Well, My parents are owners of a shop some was away from here, near the desert. And ever since I was born, I've been bombarded by everything a merchant needs to know to succeed. Facts, figures, stocks, what town trades what, everyday, for many hours. Now, my parents weren't mean, they're nice poeple, but they expected me to continue the family business. But, I was sick of all the lessons, so I left. Eventually, I found my way here, and here I am."

Steve said then, "Now, I really don't see why your so embarresed with your story. We can't all be wayward youths who only want fame and fortune. I mean, what are the chances o that happening. Your story is as good as anyone elses."

[Truce]

Even the way Thomas talked was scary. It couldn't be called cold or even emotionless, it was just...plain. "It is," he said softly, without turning his head to the other man.

However, though he had just relaxed a little, he wasn't about to initiate a conversation yet. Finishing his meal, he stood up, said a quick goodbye, and then took his plates with him and placed them in the bin that was by the kitchen door.

~~~

When Curel returned to his room, he noticed that his set of uniforms had already been placed on his bed, folded in little rows. Deciding to try one on, he was rather unsurprised to find that they were a little bit too big for him-in the long run it would be better for him anyway, since he could grow into them.

[IHateMakingNames]

Being the last to sign up, Khan was also the last to get food. Normally, he just entered from the back and snuck into the storage room, and fed himelf until discovered, when he ran. But, today Khan was trying to fit in with his new clan. So he entered from the front and followed a few students who were getting seconds into a line.

After a few akward and confusing moments for the lunch staff, Khan came out of the line with a plate full of breakfast meats. One thing Khan prefered about this new clan was that they had an abundance of food. In his last clan, they had to track and kill everything they ate, and had to use every part of it. With this new clan, Khan didn't have to eat the less desirable parts of an animal, and it was always cooked.

Khan's next step to fitting in was to eat like everyone else. To figure out how they did this, Khan walked up to the edge of a table and stood right next to it. He stood their and watched everyone at the table eat, while they ate and wondered what the little boy was doing.

Once Khan got the idea of how to eat in this new clan, he needed a seat. In his old clan, food was distributed twice a day, and the entire clan ate together to bond. With this clan, food was always avaliable, and people ate whenever and where ever they wanted to. So, Khan found the first open seat and sat down. He practiced how to eat in his new clan by stabbing his food with a fork, then eating it.

[TheBlindMime]

Piotr watched as Johann just sat back in his seat and let an awkward silence envelope the table. Piotr realized he would need to interject in order for all parties present to save face. He cleared his throat loudly just once before speaking, "I do not know about Zane, but my stature belies my age as well. I am only 13." Piotr looked down at his plate of food as if to show shame for his youth.

That was when a tiny boy wearing various furs sat next to him and began gnawing on the meat he had. Piotr wasn't sure but he thought the boy was growling. "Hello there, whats your name?" Piotr was actually curious to who the boy was.

[Armored Bishoujo]

Elena's difficult to read expression didn't change when Will took his seat near her. "I'm not stopping you." She was nearly finished, anyways. More than a meal, Elena needed to know the layout of the academy to figure out some kind of route that would take her from class to class. The place seemed easy enough to navigate, but it never hurt to familiarize yourself with routine tasks.
And then she was finished. "Take care." Elena said, soundly a little more depressed and fragile than she would have liked, put the tray with the dishes where they belonged, and proceeded to her room.
The uniforms looked pretty good, but...
"They also provide underwear?" Elena asked, picking up a pair of panties. Elena wasn't the type to wear skimpy lingerie, and didn't intend to until she was at least 18, so she was sure if there were any regulations on undergarments, she was definitely within the acceptible zone. "Oh, well."
Elena undressed and donned her academy uniform, underwear and all. It wasn't as comfortable as her traveling clothes, but it'd do in a pinch. She gazed at herself in a mirror. After about twenty seconds, she had her verdict. "I think I'd look cuter if I cut my hair to only reach my shoulders."

[Sithdarth]

"Youth is nothing to be ashamed off, and really it wasn't Johann's fault for assuming. Although if you must know I'm only about a month or so from my 19th birthday. Now you know why I'm a little sensitive about my height."

Suddenly noticing the little kid that had just sat down Zane was a little taken aback. The way he was stabbing his food like he had to kill it still and the low growl were a little unsettling. "Umm, something tells me he probably isn't going to be able to tell us his name. I could be wrong but he looks a bit feral."

[Ryu Kurai]

Infisil had ran back and checked on his horse in the stables. He realised that, situation given, if he couldn't steal anything then he could always sell his horse and make quite a bit of coin. He comforted the slightly irritated animal, who obviously was not used to either him or travel. He had walked into the mess hall after getting directions from a guard, and after getting his food, which had gotten slightly colder than the hot breakfasts he had at home or at a tavern, a quick bite discerned that it was indeed edible. He looked around for the oddest set of individuals, the ones needing a sort of glue, a defining person whom they could all rely on. He had decided, after a brief look around, that a group with a small savage standing next to the table, one of the nobles from earlier, a short and tall boy, a rather nice looking young lady and a black haired boy would be the easiest. He moved over to the table with his eggs and bacon and sat next to the tall boy on one side of the table. He kept his eyes half-open, glancing around the table.

"This will be interesting. It seems folks of all types come here." He said quietly, but not so quiet as to not be heard. His slightly irritating tone was almost not present, but anyone who listened carefully would catch a condescending lilt to his voice. He cut an egg with the side of his fork and ate it quietly.

[IHateMakingNames]

"Name" was one of the few words Khan had learned when captured by the merchants. When they had captured him, they tried to learn his name, and in the process taught that word. Khan could also tell the large boy was asking a question, based on his tone. He also recognized "hello" as a greeting, since everyone always said that when first seeing Khan.

"Me Khan!" Khan yelled out inbetween bites.

[Aerozord]

In a rather uncivilized way he began eating his food. Preffering to use his hands over knife and fork. Although it did not show, Allen listened carefully to both their tales as he ate his food. Without looking up he spoke, "fame and fortune are fleeting persuits. They set platues for you to reach, and once accomplished you are left in stagnation. Those who have truely found fame and fortune, rarely ever desired either."

[Tarrin]

Hearing the chatter return to the table, The steel also dropped from Zanes voice, Johanns head raised, His shining smile once again took its rightful place on his lips.
"Well my friends" Yes! Johann had decided that this group of wild miscreants would indeed be people he could see as becoming his friends.

"I will see you all later, As now i must go and get ready for classes."
Johann arose from the table and in turn gripped each of his new companions hands.
Making a mental to find Zane later and apologise Johann his way back to his room,Apon entering his room Johann found new clothes on his bed, Also someone had moved his hammock to a different place.
"Guess it's out of the way here", Johann thought as he placed the rope bed back to it's original position. "but here it gets the best breeze". The memory of seeing the old man on the floor earlier receiving a chuckle.
Yes this would be a good year.

[neyo the king]

"Fame and fortune are fleeting persuits. They set platues for you to reach, and once accomplished you are left in stagnation. Those who have truely found fame and fortune, rarely ever desired either."

Steve looked up to the guy who spoke.

Wow, I didn't even notice him here!

"Well said... um... I believe we haven't had the pleasure of meeting. Hullo, my names Steve Godrun. And you are?" Steve offered his hand for a handshake.

[Aerozord]

Taken another bite of his food, he then whipes his hand off before shaking. It wasn't a firm handshake, merely one as to not be rude. "Hi, my name is Allen Grey." His eyes then wandered to the lovely Emma. "And your friend is?"

[TheBlindMime]

Piotr nodded a final farewell to Johann before going back to the problem at hand, "Apparently he isn't feral enough to not understand at least a little english." Piotr remarked to Zane, "Khan, me Piotr, he Zane." Piotr made sure to point to more clearly demonstrate his meaning.

Piotr decided not to await the acknowledgement of the boy before he began eating again. Appearing submissive in front of the boy probably wouldn't be a good idea, sure Piotr had the height advantage were they to fight but the kid had an axe and no one seemed to want to take it from him. Piotr did his best to look tough as he ate.

[Sithdarth]

"Well I'll be," commented Zane in a state of mixed shock and surprise. "I guess I figured him a bit wrong." He quickly refocused on his meal forming a wedge shaped mass on the plate with his fork. Lifting the plate up he slid the entire mass into his mouth. The wedge shape helped channel the food and prevent spillage. Somehow fitting Zane fit the entire thing in his mouth and even managed to swallow some. With his cheeks puffed out he stood up waved goodbye and headed for his room. He had a long day ahead and he wanted to get to his first class a little early if he could. At least he didn't want to be late.

[Abeni]

Jenn nodded. "Sure, I'm not hungry either, I'm too excited." she blushed only slightly. "We both have Magic Items first. We're going to be a little early, but it should be fine. Oh!" She gasped, realizing something. She examined their clothes. "Didn't they say something about uniforms?"

[Rhiya Ravenwing]

Azishkra'elhykai, having taken extra long in deciding her classes - due to the fact that she is slow in deciphering writing and that she only learnt how to in less than two years - came into the mess hall blinking blearily. Gliding across the floor, she scratched a bit of her scalp, grabbed some food, and sat down at an unoccupied table to eat a quick breakfast.

As innocuous as she came in, she quickly downed her food and left again, bumping into Zane by accident as she made her way out.

"Sorriay," mumbling a quick, thickly accented apology, she continued her way into her room.

[Mauve Mage]

"And your friend is?" The boy seated next to her swiveled in his chair to address her.

"Emma Fletcher," Emma supplied. "Pleased to meet you." She looked around, noticing that the table was swiftly becoming less crowded. Her brows knit.

"Do classes start this morning?" she asked. "Seems like everybody's practically inhaling their food and running out the door. I didn't expect classes to start today; we've only just signed up this morning. If so, I must admit they certainly are busy people here at the Academy. Although I imagine they must be used to this mad rush of incoming students, year after year."

A pair of second-year students walked by; a boy and a girl. They both wore boots and trousers, and a vest that denoted their year in school.

"Oh, right," Emma said. "The headmaster did say we had uniforms..." She cringed slightly.

[IHateMakingNames]

Khan listened to Piotr introduce himself and Zane. Like most people, he dumbed down his talking, so Khan understood who was who. Then Khan continued eating like a normal person, though he still couldn't hold his fork right, and had the grip the entire thing and stab his food.

[Incendius]

"Erm, I think they did... I guess erm we should go check then, I'll erm, meet you at the class then" Aledan said stumbling over his words as he walked backwards away from Jenn. Predictably he tripped over a rock, this time suceeding in hitting his head against the ground, though luckily it was against a patch of moss. Quickly he pushed himself up and signaled that he was fine before running off to his bunk to change.

[neyo the king]

Steve looked at the passing students. Man, I hope our uniforms don't look like that.

Steve turned to Emma. "No, I don't think classes are starting today, I think they start tomorrow. No idea why they're rushing so much..." Steve reclined in his chair, putting his feet on the table, just to prove his point. "Nope, it's best just to relax today, because tomorrow, the real work begins."

[Aerozord]

After taking another bite he finished his drink and cleaned up. "Well I am not one for relaxing. I think I will get my uniform and check out the school grounds. Maybe get in abit of a work out." He gets up and makes a small stretch. "So I will see you later." He then turned his attention to Emma. "Care to join me for abit of a walk?"

[The_Phat_G]

Almost as soon as he had sat down, and before he could initiate any more conversation, the blonde girl stood up and left with nary a word. Will blinked a few times, then began to eat his breakfast.

Wonder what that was all about. Oh well, if she's in that much of a rush, not much I could do to stop her. he mused as he munched on his bacon. Since he would have no first hour class, he could take his time with his meal and savor the food. As he ate, he glanced down the table, where three young men and a boy of a somewhat uncivilized nature partook of their meals. Interesting... Could that be one of them wildmen I've heard about? I hope I have a few classes with him, I think they'd turn into a nice learning opportunity.

[neyo the king]

Steve looked from Allen, then to Emma, and back. "Well, I'll leave you two love birds alone, then!" Steve said with a laugh. Before anyone could react, Steve quickly said, "I'm kidding, I'm kidding. But I do hope to see you again," He turned his attention to everyone else at the table. "All of you. I think with a group like us, this is going to be quite an experience for us all! Now, if you excuse me, I have unpacking to do. Good day." He grabbed his plate, and walked away.

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

"Hm... Eh, it'll do, I guess..." stated Steve as he buttoned up his vest. He had finised packinging, and decided to try on the outfit we would be wearing. "But it'll take some getting used to..." Steve sighed and sat on his bed, looking out of his window. He was going to be here a while, and he had to soak up as much information as he could. With that thought, and some other thoughts about the people he meet today (one in particular...), he drifted off to sleep...

[Tarrin]

"That's better" johann said to himself, He had just finished rearanging the room how he wanted it, Now the room felt like it was his.

Straitening his uniform back into some semblance of neatness, Johann looked at his reflection, "wonder if they have this in blue?" Dismissing the idea Johann went for a walk.
"Guess i'd better find out where all the classes will be!" He was pondering who to ask when some third year classmen caught his eye.
"Excuse me" Johann called "but can you help me out".

The group gave Johann explicit instructions on how to get to the classes and off he went, Not noticing the snickers that erupted from the boys as he dissapeared around the corner.

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

Sometime later Johann found himself lost and definatly in the wrong Boarding rooms.
As he walked lightly down the hall, Girls heads poped out of rooms to laugh or thrust snide remarks at him, "Oh boy" was all that Johann could get out.

[Mauve Mage]

"Care to join me for abit of a walk?" Allen asked Emma.

"Actually, I was going to head back to the dormitory," she replied apologetically. "I just arrived last night, so I've got quite a bit of unpacking to do yet." She grinned. "Besides, I figure I might as well find out what horrible uniforms we've got to wear now, so I don't go into shock before classes start."

She also had to prepare for the upcoming will test that afternoon, she suddenly remembered. Hopefully she'd pass; otherwise she'd have to redo her entire schedule.

"It was a pleasure meeting all of you," she said to her table-mates. She grinned again. "Enjoy the morning; like Steve said, it will probably be our last free morning for quite some time." Waving to them, the girl left the cafeteria and returned to the girls' dorm.

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

Emma frowned in the little mirror. She had halfway finished unpacking when she noticed the strange uniforms that had been provided for her, and so she had paused her work to try one on. It was... different, to say the least. She would have much rather worn her usual skirts than these trousers, but that really wasn't her decision anymore. School regulations. She'd have to get used to it.

Shrugging, she went back to unpacking her belongings.

[Raiden]

Thomas finished his meal, got up, and left the messhall without saying a word. He went back to his dorm room and checked inside. Several uniforms were laid out on his bed. He quickly changed into them. While not something he would normally choose to wear, it would do.

The black vest went neatly about his body, it seemed it was cut to his form. He didn't know how they got his measurements, but they did.

[Abeni]

Jenn was about to help the boy up but he was fine. He had a point though, she headed back up to her room and retreived her uniform. It was simple enough. She dressed and went to go look for her first classes.

[Rhiya Ravenwing]

"K'wat iz thiz?"

Azishkra'elhykai held up the white shirt in open disgust in her room. Considering her current garb, Azi felt quite repulsed by the stark contrast in the hues and the vivid horizontal red bar across the left breast. This wasn't something to be able to walk inconspicuously about!

Still, the boots were a tempting darkness - her current status being soleless. Azi shrugged to herself, putting the thought forward that Ingenium Academy tended to have weird quirks anyway, and began to slither out of her own clothes.

~~

A moment later, Azishkra'elhykai glared down at her outfit, spreading her arms out and testing its flexibility. The cloth whispered as she moved, and Azi grimaced slightly, before fixing the half-mask a little more tightly over her lower face.

She crossed her small room in two leaps, before pirouetting on one heel and hopping to the other side of the room again. Hmph, not too bad. The colours may not be to her taste, and she felt more like a mouellish* than anything. However, the material felt nice to the skin, didn't chafe, and Azi could see how somebody could get used to the 'style'.

Provided this person wasn't herself.

Making another face, Azi set her mind, tightened her half-mask, and left to have a quick browse of the school grounds and facilities before the afternoon will test came up.

[OOC: *Mouellish - Tribal for 'Gay Lesbian Lover', 'Wierd Dresser', 'Dodgy selfish individual' and other such nasty little insults]

[Armored Bishoujo]

Elena was sure her jaw was hanging slightly. "What? No classes today?"
"Are you the newbiest of the newbies?" the senior student shrugged. "There's no classes today for new students. You're free until four in the afternoon when you have to go and take a will test."
Elena wasn't terribly disappointed. But she felt she wasted her time being in such a hurry only to find she had the whole day ahead of her.
"Will test? What's that?"
"They didn't tell you? In order to take most of the magic classes, you have to take and pass a will test first. Without having any mental ability, what good is trying to learn magic going to do?"
"I guess they didn't tell me about it because I didn't sign up for any magic classes." Elena said, mostly to herself.
"Well, then you're completely free today." the young man said, then stared at Elena for a short moment. "Say, would you like to have lunch with me later today?"
I don't think I've even been here for twelve hours and already I'm getting hit on, Elena thought, then shook her head. "Sorry, but I just ate. I probably won't get hungry until midnight."
The student opened his mouth to speak, possibly to say that he could make that time, but Elena had already made her escape, getting her distance. "What, he can't find a girl as old as he is?" Elena said, sighing. "I'm only 16."
And on another note...
"Just what the hell am I supposed to do for the rest of the day?"

[Ryu Kurai]

Infisil finished eating quickly and went off with the other students to find a room. Considering he had nothing but the clothes on his back (plus or minus a few pieces of gold or other items he had "found"), he figured it would be simple enough to unpack. He looked around for his room, then went to a desk outside the dorms for late comers after an incident he figured he'd leave unsaid, involving walking in unannounced and other people changing. He went into his room with the outfit and locked his door before and after he changed into his uniform.

"I suppose it could be worse." He sighed, slipping the key into his pocket. He left his clothing unfolded on the bed. He asked a guard where his class was and walked there, stretching out his arms as he did so.

After realizing that there was no class, he was informed that there was a will test for the magic courses and where it was held, with a bit of a snicker that he countered with a rather grating remark. He decided to get a better look around this place, and decided to explore the campus.

[The_Phat_G]

Will took his time with his food, musing over his past week at the academy and looking forward to the next few years. It would be nice to have a roof over his head again regularly after so long. He was also eager to begin his training. As he finished, he got up and put his tray with the others where it would wait to be washed, then headed off to his dormatory to inspect and try on his new uniform.

In his room, William scratched his stubbled chin and arched an eyebrow at Ingenium's odd choice of a color scheme. With a shrug of his shoulders and a sigh, Will began changing into his new outfit, and decided to leave his cloak hung up next to his bed. He locked up his room before he left, then began making his way out to the campus, where he would spend his time exploring until the will test at four.

[TheBlindMime]

Piotr ate his food steadily doing his best to enjoy the morsels as it was the first food he'd eaten that he hadn't raised himself. Quite an extravagant feeling to eat something that you had never had to care for yourself. As he finished his meal he took greater note of the boy sitting beside him, though his grip was off the boy was doing quite well with a fork... well better then Piotr would do anyways.

Piotr stood up before bowing to Khan, "Goodbye Khan," Piotr was going to say some parting words... but it seemed futile considering who he was talking to. He walked away from the table with a final wave, making his way towards the cramped room which had been assigned to him. On the way he caught the eye of an upperclassman gaurd with the glint of his only gold coin. Using that as payment he secured himself a wake-up call for the will test.

With that Piotr lied down in his room, his eyes shut tightly as he finally allowed himself to get some well deserved sleep.