Houses

Suggested Audio Wagon Ride

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It's finally the day! Evelyn chimes in a high tone and a quick breath, fidgeting with the clasp of Tia's cloak

The Minx crest is carefully gilded onto it's surface, one of Evelyn's many commissions. Allen stands in an awkward silence to the side, regret never leaving his stern expression. The silence between them had begun to weigh on Tia. Allen typically gives Tia the space she needs when she is angry, waiting in supportive silence while she mulls things over. But never before had her father gone this silent for this long! While Tia has been preoccupied with her training, most of her hesitation comes from not knowing how to bridge the growing gap.

Now, you still have another week left in the capital Evelyn reminds her, Tia's eyes following the carriage as it circles the courtyard But today is still extremely important—a day every Accian citizen prepares for diligently!

What are assessments exactly? Tia asks, Evelyn falling silent as she considers her explanation

Today your magical, physical and martial abilities will be tested and observed. Evelyn expounds precisely Scholars and strategists hired by the crown will pour over the results and determine your division placement, your unit placement and your training schedule.

More training? Tia groans, exasperated

Yes Evelyn chuckles The next two years of your life will consist of training, drills and travel.

Years?? Tia exclaims, her eyebrows shooting up as the carriage slows in front of them

Tia's eyes drift to her father, the severity of their impending separation striking her, but he cannot meet her gaze. They file into the carriage while Tia digests the implications.

All of that isn't the focus today Evelyn states curtly as the carriage lurches forward Today's assessment is extremely important! she emphasizes again The very expectations placed upon you as a recruit are determined by your performance.

As Tia swallows the lump in her throat, Allen glances between the two of them with an open mouth as if he has something to add. But his shoulders drop and he leers out the window again.

All of the noble families will be present as well! Evelyn continues Assessments in the capital often attract high profile observers. They enjoy keeping tabs on promising new recruits as well as measuring the power balance between the Ten Houses.

Power balance? Tia questions attentively

This draws Allen's attention back to the two of them, monitoring the course of the conversation carefully.

The Ten Houses Evelyn enunciates proudly Are granted lands and power by the royal family and all other nobility falls under the influence of one of these Houses. The lesser nobility are granted lands and titles by us and govern those territories under our guidance or in our stead.

Tia seems dizzied at the concept, taking to silent consideration

And there is some kind of competition between us? Tia questions, a bit tentative

Yes Evelyn answers with a quick smile, satisfied with Tia's quick comprehension While we are of the same kingdom now, our ancestors were constantly competing and even warring over lands, power and influence. The Eluzian Valley in particular has always been extremely fertile, blessed by Oril herself! But his majesty's ancestor reunited these smaller Eluzian cultures under one nation more than two hundred years ago. However... Evelyn presses her lips together It is still in our nature to compete and scheme for the king's favor. It is important that we push each other to remain strong and wise—to show we still deserve our position!

Allen poorly stifles a scoff listening to her validation of Accian politics and she squints at him

So today they'll be judging you and dad... by my performance? Tia questions anxiously but her mind also drifts to the night of her introduction. Much of the hostility from the other heirs seems less personal in retrospect

Well, all those under our House will be representing the Minx name. Evelyn explains and Tia releases a sigh But yes, as the sole heir your performance is critical to our future. Your failure means opportunity for the other Houses.

Tia Allen cuts in with gentle tone, surprising Evelyn and Tia Your first priority today should be your own well-being. You are your own person before you are a Minx or a house heir. However you perform, your grandmother and I can handle the rest.

Evelyn gives a sharp sigh but, upon glancing at her anxious grandchild, her anger melts away

Allen is right Evelyn states begrudgingly, almost dejected

Allen blinks and eyes his mother with exaggerated disbelief

Wow Allen teases I never thought I'd hear those words, can you say it again?

Tia finds herself laughing and a smile graces Allen's face for the first time in days. The carriage jerks to a stop and a man announces their arrival. They all take a deep breath, check they are presentable and exit the carriage.

Suggested Audio Grand Theater

The coliseum is packed, adding to Tia's buzzing nerves. Like every other structure in this dizzying city, the coliseum is excessively grand and eye-catching. An expansive arena lay at the center, as one might expect, but Tia finds herself unable to identify the glossy, prismatic material making up the grounds. Rows of tiered seats rise along the periphery of the arena, one section set aside for recruits awaiting their assessment. Collumns larger than the thickest of tree trunks separate the lower seats from a series of upper balconies, painted in pastel hues of every color. Affluant nobles leer down over the lip of these balconies, one private box for each head family of the Ten Houses lining up around the larger, royal suite. But perhaps the flashiest installment of all floats above even these lofty figures, a prismatic dome which shines over the entire structure. It pulses with a beam of light and brilliant colors, its illusions constantly changing as if it had a mind of its own. In fact, the beam of light shifts about the coliseum like a grand eye--watching them and adapting!

Despite her nerves, Tia is rather comfortable in her new athletic attire and she could still see her family seated in the upper balcony. She dresses her face with a pleasant smile and says hello to other recruits, receiving only plastic smiles or blatant trepidation. Those around her clot into small groups, clearly familiar with each other, but give Tia a wide birth. She feels appraising eyes rake over her as they whisper, attempting to identify her quietly but overlooking the sensitivity of her feline ears. It seems there were plenty here who did not attend her introduction or perhaps didn't recognize her without the full minx form or elaborate gown. After all, Tia exposes only her ears today for the sake of practicality.

You seem... relieved Duff comments and Tia's face falls into the faintest smile

It's the first time since I stepped off of that boat that I've felt like a regular person. Tia explains

Duff hums in agreement but otherwise remains silent, seeming fairly distracted today as he peers over the crowded colosseum.

Look, sire! Ghislaine addresses Ambrose, stepping forward from the back of the balcony

Ghislaine points to the rim of the colosseum opposite to them. Ambrose squints, his eyes narrowing onto a raven perched there as it peers down into the collection of teenagers.

Is that...? Ambrose husks, sounding almost conciliatory, and Ghislaine nods in confirmation

Ambrose rises to his feet, stepping swiftly to the railing and observing the creature more closely. The raven turns its face to him in response, regarding Ambrose with a beady eye. Ambrose rushes to shift his gaze down, peering at the children below, but isn't quick enough. The raven studies him cautiously, hopping from one side to the other. When he seems certain all eyes have been averted, Duff shrinks down into the form of a mouse and skitters down into the arena. Ambrose looks again, seeing the black puff of Duff's fur disappear down the wall and out of sight.

Damn! Ambrose growls, fisted hands shaking on the railing

We could never catch him, sire. Even without shifting, he is one of the most evasive of his kind! But... Ghislaine reassures him and gestures towards the recruits Now we can be certain that she is here!

Ambrose hums once, scanning those below before regaining his composure

So, she is only a child... Ambrose mutters, settling back into his seat

A notably handsome man with sunny blonde curls bound behind his head steps onto the platform below. The beam of light cast by the prismatic dome centers on him and, as it does, his likeness is projected and enlarged in the air overhead--lights dancing beneath the dome for all to see! Swirling teal patterns peek from beneath his collar and his clothing is similarly tinted. When he speaks, his voice grows unnaturally loud, reaching every part of the coliseum.

Welcome, Lords and Ladies, to our annual assessments! My name is Felix he announces with a wink, his words dripping with charisma And I'm honored to be guiding our beloved children as they begin their journey towards service! he bows carefully towards the royal box It is his majesty's honor to select the first House!

The colosseum hushes all at once as Ambrose prolongs the suspense, looking over the crowd in contemplation

House Stahlmann! Ambrose finally proclaims

His announcement sends the crowd into vigorous applause, his voice echoing throughout the arena. Those of house Stahlmann around Tia begin to rise and make their way down the stairs. Tia watches as they go, unable to recognize any peer aside from Andrea. Then, she spots Albert sending off one of those descending.

Albert! Tia calls and waves to him

Albert jumps and glances in her directing with bewilderment, surprised any would call out to him here. Tia is grateful to see familiarity in his eyes as a mild smile pulls into place. She rises and approaches him.

Mind if I... sit with you? Tia questions, trying to seem cheery but uncertainty still clings to her

U-umm... Albert stutters, his hesitation knotting Tia's stomach Yes, by all means!

Tia plops beside him with a relieved but exuberant sigh, her casual nature still boggling Albert

I'm surprised to see you here! Tia breathes, astonishment marking her voice I thought you must've been older than me to be a tutor!

This seems to garner some embarrassment but he laughs

No, it's my year as well Albert admits in a plucky tone But now I understand why her Grace was so urgent about your lessons!

Tia's face is grim as she nods, lips pressed together

Yeah. Dad didn't even tell me about all of this himself Tia complains, retaining a tinge of aggravation I found out on my own.

Really? Albert marvels That's strange. In my readings, his Grace seemed to have such a keen mind...

My dad? Tia chortles, her voice dropping in amusement A keen comedian maybe... or actually no, his jokes are pretty bad.

Comedian? Albert coughs and looks to Allen in his box, austere eyes appraising those lining up below. Tia blinks at Albert's wide eyed glance as he stammers I-I don't think I can even imagine that...!

I'm starting to feel like I don't even know him... Tia mutters and stares at her father, his expression alien to her

I-I only know about his military career Albert peeps, trying to assuage her uncertainty My friend though, she's always admired him! She been needling me to... uh...

Albert trails off, seeming to rethink whether the course of the conversation was still appropriate

To...? Tia draws out the word and elbows him lightly, grinning at his surprise Relax, Albert Tia insists with a laugh You gotta stop acting like I'm gonna bite your head off at any moment!

Albert's shoulders drop as he finally relaxes, seemingly put at ease by her teasing

If she's a fan of his, I'm sure my dad would get a kick out of meeting her! Tia continues and a smirk tugs at her lips, having already guessed at his finished sentence

Albert grins authentically for the first time and laughs with her

Thank you for your patience Felix calls out, grabbing both of their attention again We'll be starting today with Lady Andrea Stahlmann herself, daughter of Duke Gunther Stahlmann! What form do you have Lady Andrea?

Martor's Body and Blade! Andrea brags readily

Andrea oozes pride as he introduces her and is quick to step onto the platform when prompted, revealing her form fully as the illusion springs to life above her. A lustrous silver sheen overtakes every part of her body, converting even her hair and the whites of her eyes into metal. Once her transformation is complete, Andrea flexes and an array of blades protrude across her body. They emerge mostly along her back, at her joints and from her hands, resembling metallic quills which are bladed instead of pointed.

What kaithur is that? Tia questions Albert, both of them keeping their eyes on her

Martor is the aspect of metal Albert answers readily From what I've heard, Andrea manifests aluminum. She is able to turn any or all parts of her body into aluminum and can even generate blades of the same from her body.

Amid Albert's explanation, Andrea's eyes catch on Tia. She narrows a threatening leer, chin held high, before moving forward. As she steps off of the central pedestal, the prismatic material making up the rest of the grounds stirs like desert sands. Responding to some unspoken command, all manner of barriers, hurdles and obstacles take shape and actually solidify into lurid stone. Now Andrea waits at the starting gate of an obstacle course which runs in a circle around the central stage. Tia gapes at he impressive enchantment while everyone awaits the signal to begin. Felix's eyes are held aloft, watching for the signal from his cohorts as they put the final touches on the course.

Remember how I told you this was once the home of the Erlithmanil? Albert cuts in, smiling at her wonder, earning the faintest nod They designed this arena so trials could be made custom to each challenger. From what I've heard, the minerals of the arena imitate a clay in the control room in the dome. It's pretty incredible!

You're such a diligent tutor! Tia teases, Albert taken aback as she grins and gives a titter I really hope baa-chan is paying you enough for all of this.

I-It saves me the trouble of explaining later on! Albert blusters, almost seeming to pout as Tia snickers

Part of Albert is compelled to rebuff her as politely as he can, biting his tongue and letting their attention drift back to the arena. But opposed to the cold sneer or joke at his expense Albert is so used to, a warm fondness settles over her face where disgust or superiority usually rest. Was she smirking at him behind his back, was she using him to make herself feel bigger? What could a peer of her station possibly have in mind for him? He still wasn't entirely sure, maintaining a level of caution just in case--as he always does. After all, she's still just another noble no matter where she was raised...right?

Suggested Audio Colloseum

Finally, at Felix's gesture, Andrea dashes into this mystical obstacle course with zero hesitation. The pillar of light follows her all the while, every movement projected in detail for all to see. Tia is astounded watching her move so smoothly through the barriers. Her natural athleticism is apparent and she doesn't even sweat or lose breath. Rarely pausing if at all, Andrea easily supports her weight with the durability of metal by fortifying small portions of her body. She even cuts into sections of stone with her blades to alter her momentum! Tia is blown away at Andrea's precision and her own anxiety begins to accumulate knowing she could never compete. Albert catches Tia biting at her nails.

Her family invested a lot in her Albert cuts in, causing Tia to jump Many of the house heirs received especially extreme training due to their proximity in age to the prince. Don't feel too bad, most of us can't compare.

I know... Tia answers listelessly, clearly diffident But everyone expects me to be like her.

Do you... even want to? Albert asks after a brief consideration but withers as Tia glances to him W-wanna be like her?

Tia shifts her attention to Leon in the front row, regarding Andrea's performance with harsh appraisal. Disgust passes over his expression at her slightest error.

Definitely not! Tia states emphatically and nods to Leon Feel free to give me a slap if I'm ever anywhere near as arrogant as that rooster! Albert tries to stifle his amusement but Tia's laughter draws the same out of him What about you, how do you think you'll do?

Me? Albert exclaims, smiling at Tia's surprise Worse than you, probably! I'll be lucky not to trip down the stairs just getting down there.

They snicker at each other as Andrea clears the course

Pit Fighter

Andrea enters the last trial of her assessment—combat. The obstacle course melts away like hot wax but several human shaped figures rise in its place. At first glance, Andrea appears unarmed but with the slightest smirk, blades emerge across her body and from her palms. Her delight is blatant as she shreds her opponents apart, eviscerating all who approach her and even ejecting blades with force to skewer enemies at a distance! Her combat style is unflinching, unimpeded by their attacks which crash over her metallic body with little effect. This sparring match lasts for about ten minutes, calling the match as her body converts back into flesh. Andrea only pauses to wipe the prismatic dirt smearing her face before making her way out of the arena.

We've got an unexpected addition to the Stahlmann house next Felix announces, recapturing their attention

Tia blinks and squints, surprised to see a familiar face.

Euan Mac... Felix pauses to listen to the name again Euan MacFheargus, nephew of General Martin Stahlmann himself!

Murmurs circulate through the audience before a polite applause. Euan wears a steady smile as he appraises the crowd but, as his eyes land on Tia, this smile morphs into a grin.

Is he smiling... at you? Albert asks, eyes jumping between them

We sort of know each other... Tia grumbles unfavorably

What form can we expect from you today, Euan? Felix questions

Corrust's Touch Euan answers as he had been instructed to An' Azowyr's Step.

Felix and the audience are left in reverent disbelief, even Albert is left breathless. Into their silence, Euan activates his form and charcoal gray markings swallow up Euan's hands to his forearms. His eyes go dark, his irises gray and sclera black, and the skin surrounding his eyes take on more charcoal swirls akin to a mask. Bright orange flame patterns spread from his fingertips and battle the charcoal stains to his wrists, matched only by his ginger hair. In fact, his hair takes on an intense orange glow and sways like a flickering flame. The crowd reacts to his form with clamorous applause and Euan soaks it in before moving forward. While not as graceful or speedy as Andrea, Euan makes his way through the obstacle course with minimal struggle despite noticeably sweating. As the obstacles fade and the manaquins rise from the arena, Euan arms himself with two long daggers, a hand crossbow and a small bag. But before the match can begin, another staff steps up to Felix. They converse briefly before he nods in understanding.

It seems Euan will be given a chance to show how well he can utilize his unique abilities in battle! Felix explains Staff will be summoning and moving shadows for Euan at random. Let's see what this young man can do!

Euan cracks his neck before he steps into the field, an eager smirk never leaving his face. Dark pockets streak and stretch across the field, both in the air and along the ground. This umrbal mist meanders about steadily but sporadically. With no warning, his opponents charge at him all at once. Undaunted, Euan calmly pours tiny metal beads into his palm from his bag and drops them on the ground before him. As the opponents are about to bear down on him, Euan leaps backwards into a passing shadow and vanishes altogether! He reappears on the other side of the field, his opponents scrambling to turn about. With a snapping gesture, the flames dressing his hands sear with energy. Simultaneously, the beads he dropped burst and pockets of fire swallow up the dummies while others have their legs blasted apart! The crowd clamors with applause while a larger batch of opponents pull themselves from the lurid arena floor, directly around Euan. He touches one dummy before sprinting into another shadow. Euan emerges in the center of the arena and immediately sets off another weaker blast blowing chunks of hot mud about. More emerge from the earth, frenetically clambering out of the ground.

Euan takes aim with his crossbow next, tapping the bolt with a swift touch before shooting at the emerging dummies. The bolt thunks into the chest of one opponent and, as they charge closer to him, Euan sets off a small blast which tears the others apart with the pieces of their cohort. Two dummies make it through the blast and the first swings a sword down on Euan. He blocks it's attack with the guard of his dagger and sinks the second rapidly in and out of its torso--enjoying this act a bit too much! The second dummy swings down a great axe. Euan side-steps the attack with a grimace, throwing the "dead" dummy in the way of its strike. As it stumbles and tries to reclaim its weapon, Euan tackles both of them into a shadow. Silence swallows the arena as ten more opponents rise and brandish their weapons, waiting alongside the audience.

This eerie calm is broken suddenly as Euan pops in and out of the shadows. In blinding succession, Euan slits throats, shanks torsos and stealthily drops more metal balls in key locations as he moves. Finally, he drops the "body" of the dummy he spirited away before setting off all of his planted bombs at once -including his captive- and squirreling himself away at the last minute. The air of the arena pulses as fire and mud fly chaotically. The arena is quiet as the dust settles and Euan appears in the center, squatted down and panting with his form faded. No more opponents rise from the arena and the dancing shadows fade, his exhaustion apparent--pallid and breathless. The crowd bursts into applause nonetheless and he gives a tired smile and wave before trudging out of sight.

Some time later, after the rest of the House Stahlmann recruits have exhibited their skills, Ifani steps forward and Albert grows keenly attentive.

Last up, we have Lady Ifani Brandt, daughter of Baroness Clarissa Brandt! Felix announces

Before he can even ask, Ifani's skin shines metallic with a grayer hue than Andrea. This is followed by a searing orange glow overtaking her body, her hair and eyes rusty orange!

Is she... related to Andrea? Tia questions and Albert shakes his head in a quick and fervent denial

No, not at all. But Ifani's mother is from the same region of the valley, reknown for metal kaithur. Albert explains

She has Martor and Emryl's Skin. She can only convert her skin and hair into metal. But a layer of tungsten carbide paired with heat magic is still astonishingly effective! Together, her metal shell can rapidly conduct extreme temperatures and inflict severe burns. Not that that's all she uses it for...

Albert prattles on, bragging about his friend and describing her strategies, but his voice fades as Tia watches her pass through the obstacle course. To her surprise, Ifani moves through the ground course far more seamlessly than even Andrea, not relying on her kaithur in any way. When she arrives at the battlefield she is more than ready, not an errant breath passing her lips as she arms herself with only one simple broadsword. Ifani fights efficiently with sharp and precise motion—not a single movement is wasted in her lethal dance! She is totally at home amid battle, even utilizing the movements of her opponents against them. The earthen dummies bake instantly when they make contact with her scathing armor, Albert mentioning her skin could reach more than six thousand degrees without melting! It was apparent to even Tia's amateur eyes that Ifani's swordsmanship far surpasses the head of her House or any else who had performed so far. The fighting goes on without pause even as the mud-people greatly outnumber her, Ifani pacing herself deliberately. She makes sparing use of her kaithur as well, furthering her endurance.

She's amazing! Tia breathes in awe

You should see her fight real people! Albert agrees, feeling especially proud of Ifani. He knew well how she had painstakingly prepared herself for this moment.

Wow, what a performance! A strong finish for the Stahlmann House this year! Felix remarks into the applause. Ifani wipes sweat away with a towel, soaking in the cheers with a proud smile before exiting Next up, we have the Minx House!

Tia locks up, even her breath catching. A bulk of participants around them rise and begin making their way down into her hesitation.

Tia? Albert inquires gently, snapping her out of a panicked daze

Tia gives a nervous laugh and rises to her feet

Good luck! Albert encourages her

You too! Tia manages to respond, descending the stairs

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