Confronting Ethric

[12:07] Seifer was unsure how to bring up the subject. It took a lot of courage for him to even admit to himself that he needed to face Ethric. A breath was drawn in only for it to escape his lips soon after. A small shake of his head is made.

How awful.

"Right. I want to talk to you about... you. And Rosemarin. I'm not sure if you've heard what happened recently..." He said, looking off to the side ever so slightly.
(Seifer Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:07] Zhrani points southwards, "Occult-tainted lands. Those who live there can be rather hostile. It is preferable you avoid going there, for your own sake."
(Zhrani Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:09] He took walks over towards Ethric as he took a deep breath, reviewing all the information for a moment as the water being would nod his head a few times. He would sign where he needed to, read what he could, and so on before finally returning the paper to the other individual.

Cunnon was a child and didn't really understand what he was signing besides the actual words but he was excited to finally be doing something at least. He took a deep breath, because for some reason this fish man could breath air or something I don't really know how that works while looking back towards the individual.

"So uh, when does classes start and where can I find master Illhardt?" He asked the individual curiously as he tilted his head to the side.
(Cunnon Buwl)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:09] Zhrani nodded gently as Seifer spoke, lips pursed. She had plenty to say herself on the matter, but it was better to wait, of course.
(Zhrani Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:11] "You can likely pick up a schedule with supplies and requisitions- Over yonder-" A finger points to the auxillary building to the east of the main campus looming before them. "Dormitories are upon the third floor. If none are open- You can assuredly seek out a partner."

"He is usually visiting campus every day, but he also resides between Moxtli and Osrona; You can send him a letter in regards to personal tutelage." A slow, quiet nod. "August Illhardt. If you speak with any concierge, they can get a missive unto him."

He walks forwards to speak slightly softer-
(Ethric Athelier)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:12] Ethric Athelier whispers: Ah, the death of the pirate who robbed and maimed the students and attempted to kill Miss Loire, and the woman who first tried to seize and subvert the spirits of Moxtli, and would later attempted mind-enslavement and rape upon Miss Moira after betraying her? Quite. I was present. Do not worry. I handled all such things.
[12:13] Ethric Athelier whispers: How can I assist you?
[12:13] Zhrani Gardios whispers: ... pardon?
[12:13] Ethric Athelier whispers: Yes?
[12:15] Seifer Gardios whispers: .. You handled the death of others?
[12:15] He nodded a few times as he began to walk away from the area. The academy had supplies? Hopefully the supplies where free as the individual, had no money at all.
(Cunnon Buwl)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:15] Seifer Gardios whispers: Regardless- We've heard that Rosemarin and her brother performed a... ritual. A sacrifice. One to the dark lord.
[12:15] Ethric Athelier whispers: Oh?
[12:15] Ethric Athelier whispers: What sacrifice?
[12:15] Seifer Gardios whispers: I wasn't present.
[12:15] Seifer Gardios whispers: But it's what was reported to Osrona.
[12:15] Ethric slowly upturns his palms.
(Ethric Athelier)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:15] Ethric Athelier whispers: So you have... Heard of some sacrifice? Where? Who? What?
[12:15] Seifer Gardios whispers: From Lando and Hannah both.
[12:15] Ethric Athelier whispers: Where?
[12:15] Zhrani Gardios whispers: ... I've not even had the report proper.
[12:16] Seifer Gardios whispers: Where what?
[12:16] Ethric Athelier whispers: Given that I have been in Miss Loire's company for the past three days save for as of fifteen minutes ago...
[12:16] Ethric Athelier whispers: That would be a tad difficult.
[12:16] Ethric Athelier whispers: I would be very impressed at her mastery of wayfinding if she managed it in the bathroom, admittedly.
[12:16] Ethric Athelier whispers: And the timeliness thereof.
[12:18] Seifer Gardios whispers: .... Ethric. You're agitated. And defensive already. You were there; tell us what happened.
[12:18] Ethric Athelier whispers: Wait.
[12:18] Ethric Athelier whispers: Are you actually speaking of those two's death?
[12:18] Zhrani Gardios whispers: What?
[12:18] Seifer Gardios whispers: Yes..?
[12:18] Ethric Athelier whispers: Ah. That didn't make terrible sense.
[12:18] Zhrani Gardios whispers: Well, yes. But we are also very concerned as to the involvement of Rosemarin. And yours, now, too, frankly.
[12:18] Ethric Athelier whispers: No. Miss Cirque's final request was to be offered back to Nyx, in the way of her people. Miss Clotho and Mister Loire permitted this.
[12:19] Zhrani Gardios whispers: And what of Blight?
[12:19] Ethric Athelier whispers: Beheaded, cleanly.
[12:19] Ethric Athelier whispers: Then buried next to his father.
[12:19] Zhrani Gardios whispers: Right-
[12:19] Zhrani Gardios whispers: I wonder, then, where this report of sacrifices came in.
[12:19] Seifer Gardios whispers: Why were there reports of sacrifices and witchcraft from the Loires, then?
[12:19] Ethric Athelier whispers: Likely with the offering unto Nyx.
[12:19] Ethric Athelier whispers: It is a rather ritualized business.
[12:20] Zhrani Gardios whispers: One would think that an offering unto Nyx would be performed by the followers of Nyx, and not the Loires.
[12:20] Ethric Athelier whispers: Such as Miss Clotho Moira?
[12:20] Ethric Athelier whispers: Priestess of Nyx?
[12:20] Zhrani Gardios whispers: ... Mmh.
[12:20] Zhrani Gardios whispers: She never did quite mention that part. Fun.
[12:20] Ethric Athelier whispers: Did you inquire?
[12:20] Zhrani Gardios whispers: I've tried to - long ago. When I studied. She did not say.
[12:21] Sága says, "..."
[12:21] Zhrani Gardios whispers: But, back to the topic-... so, who had which part, then?
[12:21] Zhrani Gardios says, "Hello, Saga."
[12:21] Ethric Athelier whispers: I admit to a general lack of patience after the fourth inquiry on Miss Loire's virtue.
[12:21] Ethric Athelier whispers: Or lack thereof.
[12:21] Ethric Athelier says, "Ah- Good day, Miss Saga."
[12:21] Seifer Gardios whispers: If there were many inquiries it comes as a reason, Ethric.
[12:21] Ethric Athelier whispers: Does it?
[12:21] Sága says, "Hello."
[12:21] Zhrani Gardios whispers: It is to be expected when she is constantly involved with the likes of Alois Loire, a known witch?
[12:22] Sága asks, "Did you recieve my letter?"
[12:22] Sága says, "The second one."
[12:22] Seifer Gardios whispers: She did fight alongside vampires and witches alike.
[12:22] Zhrani Gardios whispers: At your request, as you have said, but nevertheless, it is still a fact.
[12:22] Seifer Gardios whispers: Though Rhesus believes it to be nothing more than her not caring for such.
[12:22] Ethric Athelier whispers: It is that simple.
[12:22] Ethric Athelier whispers: I ordered it in every case, to handle the issue of the pirates.
[12:22] Seifer Gardios whispers: And you ordered their death?
[12:23] Ethric Athelier whispers: I permitted the situation to unfold. It was their choice to make it unto the death.
[12:23] Seifer Gardios whispers: Do you believe it was the only solution possible?
[12:23] Ethric Athelier whispers: At that point which was reached? Certainly.
[12:23] Ethric Athelier whispers: I did my due investigation and previous attempts to deter and remonstrate.
[12:24] Ethric Athelier whispers: They proceeded.
[12:24] Ethric Athelier whispers: I will not stand idle in an unfolding pattern of abuse after dissuading it nonlethally twice in two cases.
[12:24] Ethric Athelier says, "Yes, but- Ah."
[12:24] Ethric Athelier says, "One moment."
[12:24] Seifer Gardios whispers: ... I see.
[12:24] Seifer frowned ever so lightly.
(Seifer Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:25] Seifer Gardios whispers: ... I thought I had the strength to make such a decision for a moment. To be more... executive.
[12:25] Ethric Athelier whispers: Ariel Cirque's plans were to see others sacrificed and abused, including potentially her own daughter in favor of her son. And then, to use her son to kill her former lover and his father.
[12:25] Ethric Athelier whispers: She intended to see Miss Moira made into an object for sexual enjoyment, and had her cursed and profaned even her own holy ground with it.
[12:25] Ethric Athelier whispers: Blight Reave would not be deterred through being uprooted, through being warned, or even through being damaged.
[12:27] Ethric Athelier whispers: He robbed students, attempted to infest them with essences of the deep one, and was the one who almost dragged Miss Moira in to be violated.
[12:27] Seifer Gardios whispers: ... It is most ugly.
[12:27] Ethric Athelier whispers: A pattern of abuse over 10 years with attempts to stop it, requires pruning. As much of a final resort as it may be.
[12:27] Ethric Athelier whispers: They were given their final requests in death.
[12:27] Ethric Athelier whispers: Honored.
[12:27] Ethric Athelier whispers: And no witches were involved. No vampires.
[12:27] Zhrani Gardios whispers: ... With the exception of Alois.
[12:27] Ethric Athelier whispers: Howso?
[12:27] Zhrani Gardios whispers: Ah- was he not present?
[12:27] Ethric Athelier whispers: Did he magically pop out of the air and cackle after I buried the bodies?
[12:27] Ethric Athelier whispers: No.
[12:27] Ethric Athelier whispers: He was not.
[12:27] Zhrani Gardios whispers: But it was simply a remark to correct the-
[12:27] Zhrani Gardios whispers: Very well. I stand corrected myself. Forgive me.
[12:27] Ethric Athelier whispers: I handled this, went home, vomitted into my sink, and cleaned up everything.
[12:28] Ethric Athelier whispers: So nobody else would have to. The problem is solved. Miss Linnen was recompensed of the money she sends to her family. Mister Braveheart is intact. Miss Moira might step up alongside the more level heads of the Mire to render it much more aware of their environment and move towards purification.
[12:28] Zhrani Gardios whispers: That.....
[12:28] Ethric Athelier whispers: I have handled everything. You must understand how I come to be nonplussed when I am greeted with an inquiry on Miss Loire.
[12:28] Zhrani Gardios whispers: Hm.
[12:29] Seifer Gardios whispers: ... I guess this settles the matter about her, then.
[12:29] Ethric Athelier whispers: In the aftermath, I spoke to Mister Kamiya.
[12:29] Ethric Athelier whispers: I learned she still convinced him he was to blame for everything that unfolded between them.
[12:30] Ethric Athelier whispers: Last year, we learned he even had a son. A son who was sequestered in the mire and told his father never loved him and hated him.
[12:30] Ethric Athelier whispers: He still believed this, from her handiwork.
[12:30] Zhrani Gardios whispers: ...
[12:30] Seifer Gardios whispers: It's evident this has been an exhausting matter in more than one way.
[12:30] Ethric Athelier whispers: Quite. Please forgive me for being particularly wound upon it.
[12:32] Seifer Gardios whispers: It's understandable.
[12:32] Zhrani Gardios whispers: You do not need to ask for forgiveness.
[12:32] Zhrani Gardios whispers: I've-... one question, though.
[12:33] Ethric Athelier whispers: Yes?
[12:33] Seifer Gardios whispers: I have more inquiries myself. Though they don't pertain to Rosemarin.
[12:33] Ethric Athelier whispers: Certainly.
[12:34] Zhrani Gardios whispers: ... Does it often come to execution in your experience?
[12:34] Ethric Athelier whispers: No.
[12:34] Ethric Athelier whispers: But, reoccurring patterns are the signifier of the necessity.
[12:34] Zhrani Gardios whispers: ... Right.
[12:35] Ethric Athelier whispers: However.
[12:35] Ethric Athelier whispers: I advise this.
[12:35] Ethric Athelier whispers: With a plethora of enemies before you openly-
[12:35] Ethric Athelier whispers: Work to fight them.
[12:37] Ethric Athelier whispers: Not anyone who might, theoretically, not meet your standards.
[12:37] Seifer Gardios whispers: I've long wished to know more about you. About your decisions. And.. the real reason you stick around Esshar.
[12:37] Ethric Athelier whispers: The real reason?
[12:38] Ethric Athelier says, "Hahn-"
[12:38] Ethric Athelier says, "Come inside."
[12:38] Seifer Gardios whispers: More than just that-
[12:38] Seifer Gardios whispers: I think it's time we have a talk about... the truth. All - or most of it.
[12:38] Ethric Athelier says, "Miss Saga, detail your idea before the Amunets."
[12:38] Ethric Athelier says, "I am capable of multitasking."
[12:38] Zhrani Gardios says, "... Hm."
[12:38] Ethric Athelier asks, "Mister Amunet. Do you truly think there is some grand conspiracy I am enacting?"
[12:38] Zhrani Gardios says, "I-"
[12:38] Seifer Gardios says, "You know that's not what I mean."
[12:38] Ethric Athelier says, "Answer honestly."
[12:38] Ethric Athelier says, "Is it? Think."
[12:38] Ethric Athelier says, "Do not jump to it as rhetorical."
[12:38] Ethric Athelier asks, "Yes, no, or maybe?"
[12:38] Zhrani Gardios says, "We just want to know what you are not saying about yourself."
[12:39] Ethric Athelier says, "It is my nature, and my oath and bond."
[12:39] Ethric Athelier says, "It does not matter."
[12:39] Seifer Gardios says, "I don't think there's any conspiracy. But I do think there are things to keep away from us. From me."
[12:39] Ethric Athelier says, "You may make inductions."
[12:39] Ethric Athelier says, "I have never stopped this."
[12:39] Ethric Athelier says, "I am, ultimately, Mister Amunet-"
[12:39] Ethric Athelier says, "Who you see, and who you have known."
[12:39] Ethric Athelier says, "You should judge me based on my actions."
[12:42] Saga pulls out her booklet and begins to flip through the pages. She was ready to begin this program, at all costs. It would take a decent amount of support and advertising, but with a sponsorship from the Archmagi...potentially, the program should see a level of success that would go down in the books.

She opens the pages to her curriculum,

[Higher Education Requirements
- 200 Rpl +
- Starfall Graduate
- Must own non public Master/exalted
- At least 20 years old

Name:
Age:
Year Awarded Diploma:
Magical Proficiencies:
Current Roles/Occupation:
Detailed Application Letter: (This letter at minimum must be 1000 words. Explain your current roles in society, and why you will be a good candidate for the Lorem Education Program. What can help will be your contribution to your city, experiences throughout your life and your current reasoning on why you want to further your education.)


The program will consist of 5 exalted or near exalted students per instructor, Each student will create a thesis on their basis of magic and select a location for a rite of passage (An event). EACH STUDENT must attend their class mates rite of passage. The end the thesis will be turned in to the instructor for evaluation. Upon course completion, the student will recieve their Lorem Magi Degree and be awarded the Title of Lorem (Extra Mastery Point) and a Lump sum of coin (15k) ]

"Should I survive the sacking of Achyon, I'll make an announcement aftwards"

(Sága)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:49] Rosemarin Loire says, "Ah."
[12:49] Rosemarin Loire says, "There you are."
[12:49] Rosemarin Loire says, "Slippery..."
[12:50] Ethric Athelier says, "Apologies for my absence."
[12:50] Rosemarin Loire says, "No need. You are rather busy."
[12:53] Sága says, "..."
[12:55] Seifer stares at the man for a few moments before he shakes his head ever so lightly.

"Someone has taught me that results paled when compared to what leads to them. I may see you as you stand before me, but it's long been evident you're no human. You've been keeping secret your origins and the path you took to be here. Your actions have always been the kind to guide, direct, and ensure diplomacy at every turn. I've only seen you stand tall before a few things - all of them involving the world being damaged without an ounce of a doubt."

The young man's gaze did not waver, though a hand moved up to push his glasses and readjust them.

"While those actions aren't an issue there are some that stand out. Your quiet mind-insistence upon us not taking a name in honor of someone we met and who did the same himself. Your deep care for Miss Loire which has left you to act in a chaotic, uncharacteristicmanner. Not an unreasonable one, mind you, but one which begs the question of how fond you are of her.

And more importantly, what keeps you from embracing that fondness rather than lingering on a past long gone."

His glasses are adjusted once again with a push of his fingertips.

"You do not seem to be the type to lie, but you have hid a lot of truth. You've boiled it down to allowing people to ask and inquire about those truths; this tends to help when there is truth you would rather not speak of.

In short, I don't think you're leading some sort of conspiracy, but I do want to know the truth. About many things."
(Seifer Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:57] Zhrani blinked a few times as she looked over the page. Her ears flicked, and she hummed a little... "Well, it sounds fine on paper. Ultimately, however, I believe it is down to the individuals that will be in charge of this. Other than that-... I suppose this seems like a wonderful idea. Though perhaps the groups should be made more flexible in terms of how many students can be in one-... but, ah, such small details shall be hashed out when we've the staff for this program." She shrugged a little. There was not much to say on this - at least, Zhrani did not have much to say.

Her gaze, then, turned back to Ethric. She sighed quietly. "If you are to be judged upon your actions, then what is there to hide?.." A subtle nod came as she reaffirmed Seifer's words.

"You've always valued honesty, did you not? I don't think that-... omitting the truth necessarily makes you honest. Even if you say that we are free to make deductions." She crossed her arms, shifting from one foot to another.
(Zhrani Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:13] Rosemarin's head cants. It would seem she has walked in on a bit of a minor contention, and to this, she merely stares in muted silence, as characteristically impassive as usual.

"To blatantly claim that Ethric exerts a continuous effort to confound his company upon the sole basis that he would much prefer to keep the details of his life private is bewildering in and of itself.

Permit a man his quiet. Sticking your nose where it does not belong will cause an upset, later." Minute twitches tug at her brow.

"Even more asinine is your presumptuous assertion that he is 'chaotic' in any capacity, when you've known him to be naught but orderly in his endeavors, all of which have served those beyond himself.

It is disgusting and infuriating - and your hypocrisy is utterly fetid."
(Rosemarin Loire)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:13] "Calael Elisheva married Esther Kang and took her name."

Pupils silently dialate, for a moment.

"You are correct on the facts of my actions- And that there are clearly reasons I do not speak on myself. But they are my personal secrets. They are relevant to nobody except my own self comfort. And I have proven this."

"You admit that you have seen my work."

"I am happy- Ordinarily. I am unhappy, when-" A hand rolls.

"... No individual has the right to demand answers from my person on my personal life. I offer information freely, of good will, where I have not given my oath to refrain. Nobody is obliged to share their darkest secrets, or indiscretions they may want unspoken."

"You have just come forwards. It has been to claw and cast suspicion on an individual I find dear, or to hamper those who do their utmost in stressful situations, or to avert confrontation."

"If you, in one breath, constantly hunt and assail Miss Loire despite having vampires, Achyonites, nethradin, Vanirhallans, and other issues before you that no progress has been made on, in regards to actions against criminals-"

"And then, you turn upon your heel, and admit you know how I regard her as my closest confidant?" He blinks. "You will find that you are not terribly endearing me unto reply on the topic, no."

"Friendship does not function in such a fashion. You must offer trust and comfort to obtain it. I have enjoyed being accused by none but you- Repeatedly- And insisted that there 'is a reason' for it, despite the work of Valeria ven Pelleaux proving otherwise."

"I advise you attempt to show progress in your work, and discuss that with me instead. You would find that a much more endearing tactic."

A deep, shuddering breath in.

An exhale.

"... Flexibility might be necessary, Miss Saga." He pinches the bridge of his nose. "I advise that you may want to consider that the rewards might need discussed and run by, but I would like to see your idea upon it put into action, and that you attempt to assemble an initial class for it."

"I will fund it where necessary." A soft, quiet nod.
(Ethric Athelier)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:23] She wasn't going to go into the conversation, it wasn't her place and she knew what Ethric was capable of.

The events that had transpired were a bit suspicious, but she lacked the information to make any sort of decision on that regard.

"I plan on setting a class with a maximum of 5 students. It won't be just a matter of siting in a room and listening to a lecture. This course will require effort of the highest kind, blood, sweat, diligence. I have a plan in mind for an announcement and an application process to ensure that only those who have shown consistent dedication post primary degree can enter the program."

She looks at Seifer and Zharni...she then turns her head towards the headmaster and Rosemarin, there was drama here that she didn't understand and didn't want to be a part of.

"I saw in the news paper...I was going to hire Blight for project I was working on...I don't want to know what warranted his...departure, but I'm sure there was a good reason ultimately."

There was an air about Rosemarin that left Saga a little uneasy, she was a pleasant person, but clearly she was ready to do what needed to be done when it came down to it.

Everyone had their secrets.

(Sága)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:26] Lips were pursed. A little too many words - many of which were not her to address, even if she felt just as responsible and, perhaps, somewhat ashamed as an answer was given. Nevertheless, however with a breath drawn in, she began to speak.

"... I do not see how Valeria's work has played any role in this. And, this investigation has been my work. Do you truly think I find joy in suspecting a professor who has helped me so much when I was but a beginning student of witchcraft? I've not done all of that just to put my nose in miss Loire's affairs. I do it because it is my duty, for better or worse - whether I enjoy it or not. The concerns were raised, and, whether you ensure me that she is or isn't a witch, I can not in good conscience let the matter rest simply on your word. You yourself have said you are not infallible."

She looked at Seifer, briefly. "Perhaps it really was better for you to speak with him alone. Mixing these affairs has clearly done nothing but add more confusion and misunderstanding." With that, a single hand moved to rub one of her temples.
(Zhrani Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:26] Ethric Athelier says, "He attempted to mind control and violate Miss Moira with Miss Cirque, throug the power of the Deep One."
[13:27] Sága says, "...."
[13:27] Sága says, "How cou-"
[13:27] Sága asks, "Mind control?"
[13:27] Ethric Athelier says, "Quite."
[13:27] Rosemarin Loire says, "He attempted to take my life, when I have hardly met the man."
[13:27] Ethric Athelier says, "He put a compulsion on her to return, after trying to capture her."
[13:27] Ethric Athelier says, "And- Yes."
[13:27] Ethric Athelier says, "He made attempts on Miss Loire's life, as well."
[13:27] Rosemarin Loire says, "Thus, I reacted accordingly."
[13:27] Sága scratches her head
(Sága)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:27] Sága says, "Mind control..."
[13:27] Sága says, "Gods."
[13:27] Ethric Athelier says, "They wanted her to forcibly join her and Miss Cirque in matrimony."
[13:27] Rosemarin Loire says, "... You were present, Saga."
[13:28] Ethric Athelier says, "And be 'shared'."
[13:28] Rosemarin Loire asks, "You would know, would you not?"
[13:28] Ethric Athelier says, "Miss Moira. Was not. Consenting."
[13:28] Ethric Athelier says, "In the slightest."
[13:28] Ethric Athelier says, "I managed to lift the hex on her myself."
[13:28] Zhrani Gardios says, "... Thank goodness."
[13:30] Sága says, "I didn't know that he was using Mind Control."
[13:30] Sága says, "Gods, I didn't even know that was possible."
[13:31] Rosemarin Loire says, "Ah, hello, Wesley."
[13:31] Wesley as the local achyonite official does stride up behind Rosemarin!
(Wesley T.)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:31] Rosemarin exists one foot below, staring into the proverbial void ahead
(Rosemarin Loire)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:31] Wesley T. says, "Rose! I have heard of your recent exploits... Quite the, erm. Results."
[13:31] Rosemarin Loire says, "...yes."
[13:31] Rosemarin Loire says, "It was unfortunate."
[13:31] Rosemarin Loire says, "I do not like death."
[13:31] Rosemarin Loire says, "It is filthy."
[13:32] Wesley T. says, "I would tend to agree, yes. But all the same... I did not think you able for such... Remind me to thank you for now on when you drop home cooked meals on my lap. Lest I face your wrath."
[13:33] Rosemarin Loire says, "Many did not."
[13:33] Wesley sweats a little.
(Wesley T.)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:33] Rosemarin Loire asks, "But - that is good, is it not?"
[13:33] Wesley T. says, "Well, erm. Perhaps? All the same... Thank you..."
[13:33] Rosemarin Loire says, "Of course."
[13:35] Rosemarin Loire says, "Here."
[13:35] Rosemarin Loire says, "Something to keep your energy up."
[13:35] Wesley T. says, "A-ah... Thank you..."
[13:35] Wesley adds it to the Rosemarin food stuff pile...
(Wesley T.)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:37] Wesley whispers something at Rosemarin, hush-hush like.
(Wesley T.)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:37] Rosemarin nod-nods.
(Rosemarin Loire)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:37] The tired knight wandered into the gym in search of... nothing in particular. He was just looking for company, or fun, but seemingly ran into some sort of confrontation instead.

The parties involved would warrant him to pause in his tracks briefly, an exhale escaping his lips before a fresh cigarette was placed between them and sparked. With a drag, his feet carried him forward once more; stopping to stand beside Rosemarine in silence.

A pale gaze shifted between the two parties with consideration and the slightest tinge of concern. His discussion with Ethric from the night before was still fresh in his mind; so he could only make a guess as to what this dispute was about.

But in any case, Howl would refrain from interjecting now. Although he was prepared to defend his teachers should it come to that.
(Howl Grace)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:48] Wesley glances to the ever silent and stoic Ethric Athelier. A confused, yet knowing expression adorns the scientists face as he glances between the Headmaster and High Priestess Zhrani Gardios for some moments. "Hmm..."
(Wesley T.)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:49] I just wonder when I'll have the courage to confront him.

Those were the words he'd written in that letters. The very words that feared a situation like this one occuring more than any other. After all it took quite a bit of heart to be willing to plunge one's self into the core of an issue. It took a whole lot more to admit one's feelings to openly.

"You took me out of my comfort zone the day we met. Is it so wrong of me to expect my mentor— my friend to match me in this?"

The words brought forth by Ethric struck harder than the one Rosemarin brought about, the latter finding herself drawing Seifer's attention.

"His most erratic moments have come from the results of your behavior. He personally stepped between you and the line of fire when it all fell towards you; whether you care or not for the consequences of your actions when aiding your siblings and their posse of vampires in slaughter is evident, yet I'd expect you to care for the reputation and trustworthiness of the man who's defended you more than any others thus far.

If my questions disgust you, then so be it.
I won't be disgusted by your behavior; it was my fault for not taking you seriously when you said you were a bad person the day we met."

It felt necessary to address her, and as the tension rose so did the courage burning in his heart. A metaphorical step forward was taken to approach the Headmaster - as their physical proximity was already clear. Green eyes locked upon a serpentine gaze.

"I've long offered you my trust, Ethric Athelier — if that even is your real name — yet time and time again as I grow older I can only watch you growing more distant. You unloaded the heartbreak you've been carrying for years — maybe even centuries — on the day we met. Ten years have passed and you still can't afford trusting me with an ounce of truth, putting your self-comfort above all else and doing nothing more than proving to me that this trust I've felt decaying over the years is warranted.

You blame me of suspecting Miss Loire rather than a slew of other issues while she aids half of said other issues. You seize the moment - the fact that despicable individuals were dealt with to look away from her previous involvement with those who's very existence is the antithesis to the world.

The results pale when put before the path one took to reach them. Miss Loire may or may not have sold her soul but it does not take away from the fact she fought on a battlefield alongside those who have."

A breath. An important breath was drawn in, one that allowed mind and body to come together at once for words that needed to be precise - exact.

"We've already began mapping the next steps of my work regarding monsterkind, vampires, and witches if all goes as expected. An expedition to seek out the knowledge we'll need has been planned and those who can help - who want to help with the matter and who put a strong interest in it have been invited to help us.

However, if it's my wife's work you critique then the next step can be taken right here, right now. A test. To ultimately dismiss all and any accusations. While I'd much prefer kindness I've found that stronger actions yield better results. It pains me to realize that, too."

A pause, a look between Zhrani and Rosemarin, then back to Ethric.

"As for you and I, I'm afraid I'll never be able to fully trust you again until you fully trust me yourself. I've never expected your entire life story, but I still do want some of my questions answered. To lie about it would be pointless."
(Seifer Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:55] As Rosemarin goes to open her mouth, a hand comes up.

He stares back.
(Ethric Athelier)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:55] Ethric Athelier says, "Miss Loire is not a citizen of Osrona."
[13:55] Ethric Athelier says, "I have nothing to fear, but you have done nothing but needle me after I have extended nothing but aid unto you in return, Mister Gardios. That is the nature of such things, Mister Gardios. I am open when I am treated well."
[13:55] Ethric Athelier says, "I have given you an excess of truth- The fact that you do not value it- I find upsetting."
[13:55] Well, Wesley had come at an odd time! Truth be told, the man just wished to visit the Academy and find Rosemarin to congratulate her on an unexpected yet overwhelming victory for the state. That is to mention nothing of how pleased he was that Ariel Cirque was no longer in the picture, due to... historic events.

Instead of finding the woman training students or the likes, he instead found an interrogation and a boiling pot about to overflow.

Wesley was about to say something, but the hand stops him as well. Instead, the man watches.
(Wesley T.)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:56] Ethric Athelier says, "I am not here to do your duty for you. If you would sooner preoccupy yourself with fighting me and Miss Loire over ever taking action against those you claim to find so problematic to work with, I can say no more."
[13:56] Rosemarin 's mouth draws shut.
(Rosemarin Loire)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:56] Ethric Athelier asks, "... Are you so cowardly you would insist on hunting your allies, than to seek out those who would threaten you?"
[13:56] Ethric Athelier says, "And if you would- Be open about it."
[13:57] Seifer Gardios says, "I'd say it takes far more courage to face the facts laid before my eyes that point in the direction of my allies rather than clear enemies."
[13:57] Ethric Athelier says, "Not particularly."
[13:57] Rosemarin Loire asks, "... Enemies?"
[13:57] Rosemarin Loire asks, "You would consider the Shadowmire and Deep Company more aligned, then?"
[13:57] Rosemarin Loire says, "I will tell you."
[13:57] Seifer Gardios says, "I would consider anyone who's very presence defies the world to be an enemy to it."
[13:57] Rosemarin Loire says, "Their wedding vows were certainly something."
[13:59] Ethric Athelier asks, "So, what did you do of Miss Nishimura?"
[13:59] Wesley T. says, "An interesting view. I believe the common belief is their wedding vows included proclimations of terror and brutalistic treatment of their enemies?..."
[13:59] Rosemarin Loire says, "Indeed, Wesley."
[13:59] Wesley T. says, "Ariel Cirque was, without a doubt, a worse person than all present."
[13:59] Seifer Gardios says, "I did all I could to aid her in her troubles. To salvage the soul of a man who deserved nothing more."
[13:59] Ethric Athelier says, "You failed her."
[13:59] Seifer Gardios says, "Than the fate he'd cast upon himself."
[13:59] Ethric Athelier asks, "Where is she now, Mister Gardios?"
[13:59] Ethric Athelier says, "Her fate was in your hand."
[14:00] Ethric Athelier says, "You had every non-lethal measure in your hand."
[14:00] Ethric Athelier asks, "Where is she now?"
[14:00] Seifer Gardios says, "She ran."
[14:00] Ethric Athelier says, "Fascinating."
[14:00] Rosemarin hums.
(Rosemarin Loire)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:00] Seifer Gardios asks, "Are you accusing me of not saving her?"
[14:00] Seifer Gardios asks, "Of not doing all I could to help her?"
[14:00] Seifer Gardios asks, "Were you the one who dragged her to see reason?"
[14:00] Ethric Athelier says, "I am the reason she even halted."
[14:00] Ethric Athelier says, "I chose to let you handle it."
[14:00] Seifer Gardios asks, "Were you the one who gave her a place she could call home?"
[14:00] Ethric Athelier says, "I let you handle it."
[14:00] Ethric Athelier says, "A mistake- I will handle it next time."
[14:01] Seifer Gardios says, "..."
[14:01] Ethric Athelier asks, "Am I incorrect?"
[14:01] Ethric Athelier asks, "Yes, or no?"
[14:01] Wesley T. asks, "Remind me, did Ariel Cirque not hand over a student to Achyon for execution? Just to appease us?"
[14:01] Wesley T. says, "I remember some mutterings of that."
[14:01] Seifer Gardios says, "I see what she meant."
[14:01] Ethric Athelier says, "Ah, incorrect."
[14:02] Ethric Athelier asks, "Yes, or no?"
[14:02] Ethric Athelier says, "You must understand. My anger is not from 'no'. It is from insisting you are above that when you have."
[14:02] Ethric Athelier says, "It is from insisting you have not wronged me, when you have."
[14:03] Zhrani let out a quiet sigh and nudged Seifer slightly, a few hushed words offered to his ear.
(Zhrani Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:03] Zhrani Gardios whispers to Seifer Gardios: Let it drop, for now. Come back with a clearer head. You are getting heated. Mull it over and try again.
[14:03] Seifer Gardios asks, "How have I wronged you, Ethric?"
[14:03] Seifer Gardios asks, "By doing my best?"
[14:03] Seifer Gardios asks, "By trying?"
[14:03] Ethric Athelier says, "You have disregarded the value of that which I have given you, which I have shown you, and by entrusting you with."
[14:03] Ethric Athelier says, "You have called it meagre, and nothing."
[14:05] Seifer Gardios says, "I'm sure that's true. That's why I still call you a friend and a mentor. Because I see no value in what you've taught me."
[14:05] Ethric Athelier says, "It is deeply insulting. Infuriating. You come in completely confidence that pursuing Miss Loire does ANYTHING positive- When you have yet to make headway elsewhere."
[14:06] Ethric Athelier says, "You just told me you do not trust me. You have just told me you would not take my advice. You have just told me explicitly you do not mind exploiting my emotional vulnerabilities."
[14:06] Ethric Athelier says, "These are things you have just expressed."
[14:06] Ethric Athelier says, "Those are the very -meaning- of those words."
[14:06] Sága says, "..."
[14:06] Sága asks, "Why is this happening *now*?"
[14:06] Zhrani Gardios says, "..."
[14:06] Seifer Gardios says, "I trust you less and less because you've become more and more awful with time."
[14:06] Rosemarin Loire says, "They insist that I must be persecuted, when they do not comprehend the upshot of such."
[14:06] Ethric Athelier says, "I have been the same."
[14:06] Zhrani Gardios says, "Alright. That's enough."
[14:06] Rosemarin Loire says, "That is why."
[14:06] Seifer Gardios says, "You deflect. You push away."
[14:06] Seifer Gardios says, "You redirect."
[14:06] Seifer Gardios says, "You accuse me of making no progress, yet halt any attempt at it."
[14:06] Ethric Athelier says, "No."
[14:06] Ethric Athelier says, "If you want progress-"
[14:06] Rosemarin Loire says, "There is no progress made upon my person, Seifer."
[14:06] Ethric Athelier says, "Bring in a test subject."
[14:06] Rosemarin Loire says, "I can promise you this."
[14:06] Sága says, "Seifer what do you actually want to do? "
[14:06] Ethric Athelier says, "Work with Miss Valeria to use the strength you possess to help those."
[14:06] Howl Grace says, "..."
[14:06] Wesley T. asks, "... Did I not spot Ariel Cirque walking these grounds as a known blood-cultist that dedicates itself to the total erradication of light from our world in service to their goddess?"
[14:06] Ethric Athelier says, "Defend those who cannot defend themselves."
[14:07] Howl Grace asks, "In any case, why apprehend Rose? What charges does she face?"
[14:07] Wesley T. asks, "Yet, Rosemarin is being persecuted for... slaying her? For the method sof doing such?"
[14:07] Seifer Gardios says, "You put down my efforts towards Hina because I've failed to save her husband before he died."
[14:07] Howl Grace says, "Ridding of Ariel and Blight are hardly crimes...."
[14:07] Zhrani Gardios says, "Please, this is not about Ariel Cirque, or her unfortunate husband, or their deaths."
[14:07] Ethric Athelier says, "No."
[14:07] Rosemarin Loire says, "It is strange, indeed."
[14:07] Ethric Athelier says, "That is NOT what you failed to save her from."
[14:07] Ethric Athelier asks, "Do- Do you think that is Miss Nishimura's problem?"
[14:07] Howl Grace says, "I don't think suspicions warrant arrests, Zhrani."
[14:07] Zhrani Gardios asks, "Are we here to arrest?"
[14:08] Wesley T. says, "I rather believe it is. Rosemarin is a delight and up to this point I have yet to see a violent bone within her. She did Esshar a service."
[14:08] Howl Grace asks, "So what exactly are you here for..?"
[14:08] Wesley T. says, "And you are branding her a heretic."
[14:08] Seifer Gardios says, "I think it was an issue we all faced."
[14:08] Seifer Gardios says, "I wouldn't have reached out to her if I didn't believe she could be helped."
[14:08] Rosemarin Loire says, "They claim that I have enacted some form of 'ritual' upon Blight Reave."
[14:08] Ethric Athelier says, "Yes. I am a solitary individual. I am not a social being."
[14:08] Seifer Gardios says, "And neither would you."
[14:08] Ethric Athelier says, "I open up under my own circumstance."
[14:08] Rosemarin Loire asks, "Lando and Hannah? Have they truly said such a thing, as well?"
[14:08] Ethric Athelier says, "You cannot, and should not, force me."
[14:08] Rosemarin Loire says, "I will enquire about this."
[14:08] Ethric Athelier says, "You should not try to wrench me apart."
[14:08] Zhrani Gardios says, "We claim -nothing-."
[14:10] Rosemarin Loire asks, "Ahah?"
[14:10] Zhrani Gardios says, "We've come here to *understand* what happened."
[14:10] Ethric Athelier says, "I share parts of myself to those who pursue the same passions alongside me."
[14:11] Seifer Gardios says, "Then it seems we've long not shared passions."
[14:11] Ethric Athelier says, "I gave you trust when we first met. I let you see individuals dear to me."
[14:12] Ethric Athelier says, "I have given you insight into problems you have come before me to ask of."
[14:12] Ethric Athelier says, "I have always worked with you when you have expressed passion in a direction."
[14:12] Seifer Gardios says, "You've stood strongly against my happiness and discouraged me from being with someone I love, too."
[14:12] Seifer Gardios says, "You pointed fingers and accused me of failing a woman who wouldn't listen to me, no matter what I tried."
[14:12] Ethric Athelier says, "Very well. I will show the latter through actions, than words."
[14:12] Ethric Athelier says, "I will assist Miss Nishimura myself."
[14:13] Seifer Gardios says, "You accused me of being incompetent - of being an idiot for following on a lead -an entire city- has taken actions towards."
[14:13] Rosemarin cants her head. Her stare is thoroughly jaded.
(Rosemarin Loire)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:14] Seifer Gardios says, "Even when I offered to be proven wrong, you've put yourself in the way once again."
[14:14] Ethric Athelier asks, "Have you?"
[14:14] Ethric Athelier asks, "Wrong of what?"
[14:14] Ethric Athelier asks, "Accusing Miss Loire?"
[14:14] Seifer Gardios says, "Yes."
[14:14] Zhrani simply frowns. Her attempts at stopping the conversation utterly failing, she seems to have given up on that angle.
(Zhrani Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:16] Ethric Athelier asks, "You are objecting to the idea of subjecting Miss Loire to excruciating agony to sate your curiousity?"
[14:17] Ethric Athelier asks, "Permanent damage?"
[14:17] Seifer Gardios says, "I'm offering to give her the opportunity of not being beheaded in the middle of Osrona if I'm right."
[14:17] Ethric Athelier says, "She is not an Osronan citizen. You are the only ones trying to behead her."
[14:17] Seifer Gardios says, "Rhesus has long decided he'd go through with it."
[14:17] Rosemarin Loire asks, "Beheaded?"
[14:17] Rosemarin Loire says, "Oh, dear."
[14:17] Zhrani Gardios asks, "... Beheaded?"
[14:17] Zhrani Gardios says, "That was not what he said."
[14:17] Ethric Athelier says, "I have never heard anyone."
[14:17] Ethric Athelier says, "Anyone at all."
[14:17] Ethric Athelier says, "Except you. Threaten Miss Loire's life. From Osrona."
[14:17] Seifer Gardios says, "Citizen or not, they won't let a witch live on if it's discovered she is one."
[14:17] Howl Grace says, "If."
[14:17] Ethric Athelier says, "You are insisting I should SUBJECT HER TO PERMANENT DAMAGE, AND SEVERE AGONY."
[14:17] Ethric Athelier says, "To sate your."
[14:17] Ethric Athelier says, "Curiousity."
[14:17] Rosemarin slowly blinks.
(Rosemarin Loire)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:17] Ethric Athelier says, "Do you think the flames."
[14:17] Ethric Athelier asks, "Pass through you?"
[14:17] Ethric Athelier says, "If you are innocent."
[14:18] Seifer Gardios says, "I'm insisting you don't let her suffer right in front of everyone where the end results may be even worse."
[14:18] Seifer Gardios asks, "Do you think you'll succeed in hiding her from all of Osrona's forces?"
[14:18] Ethric Athelier asks, "Even in face of extensive evidence to the contrary?"
[14:18] Ethric Athelier says, "I don't think I need to."
[14:18] Zhrani shook her head. A hand was raised.
(Zhrani Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:18] Ethric Athelier says, "You are the only individuals hunting her."
[14:18] Zhrani Gardios says, "Right."
[14:18] Zhrani Gardios says, "Stop."
[14:18] Rosemarin Loire says, "I will say, the obsession is strange. You will glean nothing from it but distress, in the end."
[14:18] Zhrani Gardios says, "Allow me to -clarify-."
[14:18] Seifer Gardios says, "The Archmagi, members of the council, and Radiants have made the decision it'd happen."
[14:18] Seifer Gardios says, "Out in public."
[14:18] Ethric Athelier says, "Good. We will accept her exile."
[14:20] Seifer Gardios says, "They even sought her out."
[14:20] Sága asks, "Why?"
[14:20] Howl Grace says, "Fools."
[14:20] Sága asks, "Becayse if the rumors?"
[14:20] Howl Grace says, "Rumors."
[14:20] Howl Grace says, "When our enemy is clear to us."
[14:20] Howl Grace says, "In the east."
[14:20] Seifer Gardios says, "You're so erratically defensive you can't see someone trying to help you for what it is-"
[14:20] Sága says, "You mean the west...."
[14:20] Rosemarin Loire asks, "'Help'?"
[14:20] Seifer Gardios says, "You see the worst of it all."
[14:20] Wesley T. says, "This seems like some unusual state bias due to corruption within the Osroneese hierarchy attempting to proxy execute miss Loire for the mire."
[14:20] Ethric Athelier says, "No. He means the vampires."
[14:20] Ethric Athelier says, "To the southeast."
[14:20] Howl Grace asks, "Why haven't we taken proper actions against the Vampires yet?"
[14:20] Rosemarin Loire says, "Khh- Wesley..."
[14:21] Rosemarin stifles a smile behind curled fingers.
(Rosemarin Loire)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:21] Howl Grace asks, "Why waste efforts suspecting the one least likely to possess withcraft?"
[14:21] Sága says, "I know what he meant..."
[14:21] Ethric Athelier says, "You are calling my defense of her well being erratic."
[14:21] Zhrani Gardios says, "The punishment has not been -decided- as of yet. And the investigation into witchcraft, if I recall- I've convinced Rhesus to allow it to remain under my jurisdiction. And I've yet to exact a verdict."
[14:21] Howl Grace says, "I fail to understand this logic, Zhrani, Seifer."
[14:21] Rosemarin Loire says, "I am deemed a lesser threat, I suppose."
[14:22] Rosemarin Loire says, "Still and all -"
[14:22] Rosemarin Loire says, "It is not wise to pursue."
[14:22] Seifer shakes his head towards Zhrani.

"It has. Rhesus said it himself in front of about forty that she was to be tested."
(Seifer Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:22] Rosemarin Loire says, "That is fine. They may test me. I have offered myself up, once before."
[14:22] Ethric Athelier says, "..."
[14:22] Ethric Athelier says, "Are-"
[14:22] Sága asks, "If she was a witch, does that mean she has to die for it?"
[14:22] Ethric Athelier asks, "Are you sure?"
[14:22] Zhrani Gardios says, "After which, I've told him that I should do it myself, if I have to."
[14:22] Rosemarin Loire says, "It will not kill me."
[14:22] Ethric Athelier says, "..."
[14:22] Seifer Gardios says, "I am sure."
[14:22] Ethric Athelier says, "..."
[14:23] Rosemarin Loire says, "...But."
[14:23] Rosemarin Loire says, "I am not a witch."
[14:23] Rosemarin Loire says, "However - they will not do so within the realm of Osrona."
[14:23] Rosemarin Loire says, "They will do it here."
[14:23] Zhrani Gardios says, "... Truly, it was unwise for this conversation to be had with all present."
[14:23] Sága says, "Withholding information is why you're here in the first place."
[14:25] Yuki Hamada asks, "What is everyone gathered for?"
[14:26] Wesley T. says, "Doing a potential examination on neutral grounds seems like a much finer alternative. Less chance of Miss Rosemarin mysteriously vanishing."
[14:26] Rosemarin Loire says, "Spurring an unnecessary disturbance is far from progress, however."
[14:26] Rosemarin Loire says, "The sheer amount of focus in respect of my personage is..."
[14:27] Rosemarin Loire says, "...flattering... perhaps."
[14:27] Rosemarin taps an index into the red tint of her cheek.
(Rosemarin Loire)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:27] Rosemarin Loire says, "But."
[14:27] Wesley T. asks, "I also call to question how those of us without knowledge of this... fire can verify the results?"
[14:27] Wesley T. says, "This seems like, pardon my joke, a genuine witch hunt."
[14:27] Wesley T. says, "With little cause."
[14:28]
{LOAD GAME}

[14:28] You've received 100 daily salary from Starfall Academy.
[14:28] Rosemarin Loire says, "I will tell you this -"
[14:28] Howl Grace says, "It puts a sour taste in my mouth to see the extent of cowardice at play here."
[14:29] Howl Grace says, "Our city has taken little to no direct actions on the Vampires, but we engage in literal witch-hunts instead."
[14:29] Yuki blinked and nodded. He looked somewhat conflicted.
(Yuki Hamada)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:29] Seifer Gardios says, "I think it's best for it to be done here, too. That's..."
[14:29] Rosemarin Loire says, "My blood is an amalgam of many things - I cannot help where I am from, and what I was born into."
[14:29] Seifer Gardios says, "... My point."
[14:29] Seifer Gardios says, "If it has to happen-"
[14:29] Rosemarin Loire says, "From the debauched, to the man touched by the High Angel, himself."
[14:29] Rosemarin Loire says, "That does not make me a saint."
[14:29] Rosemarin Loire says, "The same can be said for the contrary."
[14:29] Seifer Gardios says, "Then it should be surrounded by people who'd listen to reason. If anything goes wrong."
[14:31] Seifer Gardios says, "Because yes, Ethric. I failed her. And I blamed myself for failing to find a solution for Dimitri, too."
[14:31] Rosemarin Loire says, "You do not comprehend the culmination of these efforts."
[14:31] Wesley T. asks, "May I ask what the distinction is between a, erm. 'Witch' and a blood cultist?"
[14:31] Seifer Gardios says, "And I even pleaded the heavens for a miracle - but it didn't work."
[14:31] Rosemarin Loire says, "The - foreseeable culmination, in any case."
[14:31] Ethric Athelier asks, "Are you hoping to find some success here? Through causing Miss Loire needless pain? By causing MYSELF issue by proxy?"
[14:32] Ethric Athelier says, "You won't find it."
[14:32] Ethric Athelier says, "But if Miss Loire gives her consent, I will follow."
[14:33] Wesley T. whispers something.
[14:33] Rosemarin Loire says, "I would suppose Rhesus is just as weary of this situation as I am."
[14:33] Rosemarin Loire says, "It is time to put it to rest."
[14:33] Wesley T. whispers something.
[14:34] Rosemarin Loire whispers: That is the question, isn't it.
[14:35] Howl nodded.
(Howl Grace)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:36] "Please, do not throw baseless accusations at me when you've little understanding of what has actually led up to this conversation in the first place." A brief remark is shot at Saga's interjection, before her attention returns to others. "In any case - whatever Rhesus may have said or not, can yet be overturned. I have directly told him that if I -have to-, I will perform the test. HOWEVER. I have also said, right afterwards, that I have -details- that may have turned the investigation in miss Loire's favor. Which is a far more favourable outcome than other, FOR CLARIFICATION, as it seems that some here may have well assumed that we are out of blood. This is no personal vendetta, I must say.

To speak of personal trust between one person and another while also essentially deciding a woman's fate in the same breath has clearly resulted in a very poor direction of this conversation. I will say this again. I, personally, have yet to declare this investigation finished.

Many things have been said already, and I find it pointless to go around in circles uttering the same points over and over again. The opinions and the facts at hand have been laid out-..." A quiet sigh followed. This had gone far worse than she had imagined.

But what did she imagine, in the first place? She drew in a deep breath.

"I had personally found exile to be enough, if it matters at all. And I had sincerely wished there would have been no reason for exile in the first place."

Her gaze shifted from Rosemarin and Ethric towards Seifer. She put a hand on his shoulder, perhaps hoping that to catch his attention - direct it to herself - if only for a moment.
(Zhrani Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:37] Ethric Athelier says, "They are intertwined, Miss Gardios."
[14:37] Ethric Athelier says, "You cannot separate them."
[14:37] Seifer offers a frown to the old man, yet it seems far less angry than how he'd been since the start of their conversation.

"I understand why you're upset. And I know how futile you see it to be; I hear it. But you can't blind yourself to how the world feels. Just like I can't blind myself to my own failures."

His countenance softened up.

"So long as there's doubt, you won't cease to receive the accusations which anger you to a degree I've hardly seen before. I'm not here to hunt witches; I've said it earlier that my goal was to help monsterkind, witches, and vampires alike if they so desire it."

Tension release. A deep breath. Perhaps communication had finally reached a point where they all stood on the same ground and understood eachother, as arguing was akin to speaking a different language. Kind to a fault and weak in his tendencies to seek peace the young Warden quietly spoke a few words, a verbal olive branch.

".. and I'd like to help with Hina."
(Seifer Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:37] Rosemarin languidly taps a foot.
(Rosemarin Loire)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:42] "Today."

"You have hunted Miss Loire, ignored all evidence to the contrary, and coerced her to acquiesce to physical harm in spite of the results of her actions throughout her whole life."

A hand comes up.

The man is not lacking for tension. His eyes are thin, almost nonexistent black lines, as they stare, face motionless in a way that does not match the force behind his words.

Dissonance.

A mask.

"This is an objective action you have taken. Both of you. When I see actual action taken on the front of those other topics? I will regard them."

"You have not, yet."

"You have wronged me. You have chosen, engendered, and expounded the route that would do the most harm against your allies. I will wait until it is proven that you have wronged me."

"I will not seek revenge."

"But, I will not have you escape that fact. All present know this."
(Ethric Athelier)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:44] Wesley shakes his head. For shame.
(Wesley T.)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:52] Wesley also glances at the... glowing neon V sign by Saga's side... He stares at it questioningly for quite a bit, before the scene invariably draws his attention back.
(Wesley T.)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:53] And the branch was burned.

The expression he wore was nothing short of unnerving. It put Seifer right back up to his prior tension, be it through instinct or merely mimicking his counterpart. He even offered a frown.

"Very well. If it is proven, then I suppose we'll be even, Ethric."

He was never the kind of man who sought revenge. After all having someone both he and Zhrani trusted trample all over their relationship was something that had set them back a few years - perhaps it could have even robbed them from their union in the grand scheme of things.

Despite how much he desired and hoped for a peaceful resolution it was evident that the words slung towards one another could not be so easily washed away and forgotten.

Forgive, but don't forget.

Lessons he'd take to heart, lessons that led Seifer to shift about-face, cloak making its presence known before the Headmaster and cementing those feelings he'd never quite forgiven him for harming.

Changes in Seifer's life had evidently affected him. His transition from one philosophy to the next was a rather violent one to his standards. Ektu. Rhesus. And now Ethric. The bridges were being burned at a rapid pace as bitterness increased.

Steps were taken away from the elder.

"I'll inform you of my progress if there is a need for it. Feel free to come to the Shrine later."

Etiquette. It mattered even while quite obviously unhappy.
(Seifer Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:55] Yuki Hamada whispers to Seifer Gardios: You, Zhrani, and the children take care now.
[14:57] Zhrani shook her head. "I have not ignored anything. I've been trying to say that there was no need for this hasty decision that was pushed forward, a decision that was reached through a conversation that was largely held without me, the one who has been doing the investigation. An investigation that I, again, pursued with a heavy heart - and not zeal. And I've had about enough decisions be made without me. I'll lay bare the facts - especially your testimony, mister Athelier, with your permission, that is, and show that there is no need for the test.

Though, whatever other decisions will be made in regards to miss Loire would yet be decided.

I'd hardly call this a fruitful conversation, much to the fault of all sides. Even my own. Especially my own, perhaps. But, nevertheless... have a good day."

This time, thankfully, Seifer took steps away on his own, with no need for the Feline to nudge him towards such action. She followed suit wordlessly.
(Zhrani Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:59] The mask does not move, though eyes go to Zhrani when she speaks.

They linger.

He is silent, watching.

He says nothing in reply, broad of shoulder, arms behind his back. His eyes are nothing but color, practically.
(Ethric Athelier)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[15:02] Seifer slumps down on one of the cushions.
(Seifer Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[15:04] Zhrani practically falls onto the cushions - using the two of them as a bed of sorts as she lay down, with her feet facing the door of Hina's room that had been empty for a long while now.

"... We should've walked away halfway through that. It got too heated. Nobody's words reached others.

At the very least, I think so."
(Zhrani Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[15:07] "No. His words reached me and my words obviously reached him." Seifer replied, still frowning as he thought back to the verbal explosions from earlier.
(Seifer Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[15:10] Zhrani shook her head. "I don't know, Seifer. I feel that emotions may have interfered quite a lot. Unless, I'm not fully understanding something.

Is a test what you want, then? Do you think she deserves that? She may well not be a witch, I've that much to say, despite her associations. Of course - her associations are a problem, but I wouldn't say it pushes for the test to be made." She blinked a few times, her eyes focused on her husband, even if half-lidded.

The conversation drained her already tired self, on several levels.
(Zhrani Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[15:14] "A test'll have to come. It's... inevitable - unless you really think you can convince everyone in Osrona otherwise. Unless you're sure of it. But it remains that a Radiant and the head of the Grimmore family both think she's a witch. Even Rhesus has accepted the possibility. Valeria's incompetence leaves you instead of her in the line of fire, so..."

He lets out a soft sigh.

".. I'm sorry. You shouldn't have seen the argument that came with it."
(Seifer Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[15:19] She shrugged a little, eyes slowly closing. "Well. If my words accompanied with disproval of several testimonies can not convince them, then...

I suppose I will have failed again, just like with Dimitri." A hand moved to cover her eyes, even though they were already closed... a breath was drawn in.

"I'm rather tired of feeling as if my efforts are for nothing. I had come to where I am to change things, but... all I get to do is observe as decisions are made in my stead. I don't understand it."
(Zhrani Gardios)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[15:21] They'd both hit their own personal roadblocks. Seifer was stuck with a project thought-out yet unfinished and Zhrani was left with responsabilities but none of the power that came with it. It was... hard. Difficult to go on without losing one's mind, frankly.

"I'm not sure where to go from here, honestly."
(Seifer Gardios)