[Continuation]

Having arrived in a small city thanks to the portal opened by Sera, they'd arrive searching for those who summoned them there. Yet no one; a message giving detailed coordinates would result in their next destination; a horse ride later and some rather interesting banter. Ultimately would have led them to their location; coordinates marking an old temple of sorts. The male having turned to her to give her the heads up and the confirmation that she was ready and or willing to go into said temple left him with a racing heart; no so much worried about his safety but hers. After all, in the short time, they met he'd grown to care deeply about her. More than he had any other person in the game, yet those feelings weren't so easily dismissed the way he'd like. None the less he'd reach back with his hand, the shield covering her backside as he walked her towards the temple. His stomach screaming that this was a bad idea, but none the less he'd ignore it. The message which seemed to alert them the moment they arrived in the city was going off to once more; but this time not just for her. He too would receive his own message, which would read as followed

Mail

So a story as old as time, it appears you are the partner in crime. Your task is simple you see, find the entrance and use the key. But just so you do know this fact, once you've begun there is no turning back. You'll together begin a game of sorts; summon, heal and conquer the court. Prove yourselves worthy and you'll learn there is more to this game, a new found skill is yours to gain. So good luck with your adventure children of light and dark. It will be one to remember, go forth embark.

As he read his ominous message aloud he'd look to her, "Well you heard your stalkers, I'm now a part of this and now we can choose, play this game and unlock the mysteries and some new skill or walk away and give up. So where do you think the key is?" he'd say smiling as he already knew her plans if not had a fair idea of what she would say regardless. Had he agreed or not; there was no way he'd let her do it on her own. Although the closer they grew to such a location the more apparent it became, the area was old and dangerous. Stepping forward onto a stone he'd raise his shield quick as darts bounced off it. "I don't like this idea Sera, but if we must, let's be smart and slow about this. Where would you hide the key to your temple.I don't see a rug so?" he'd say hoping she might solve the riddle.

Parting ways from her a bit he'd scan the entrance to the temple. It seemed to be locked by a giant gate; with strange rune-like markings. As he began to place his hands over the stones he'd note one taking the shape of hand and that they were identical to the other side, "Hey love, how about you try placing your hand on the other door, seems it's hand thing button." his hand pressing some seemed to do little. Yet it glowed a little, confused yet interested he'd question it, "Think it is powered by magic or something I mean it's glowing. I can't seem to use magic but it's glowing, does that mean I might have some sort of magical power to me. Ooh, wait. Open Sesame? Eh it was worth a try..." he'd say scratching his head still puzzled by the endeavor
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Had Sera cracked the puzzle to the entrance or Steele's own jokes and gags truly work the doors would open and their true journey would begin. His eyes meeting hers he'd reach out to hold her hand. A faint blush passing he'd bite his lip nervously, "Alright, no turning back from this point on. I'll do whatever it takes to keep you safe, even if I got to die to do this. Anyways, let's begin our trail, this court thing sounds dangerous but exciting and well, no point in not living on the edge." As he walked forth into the temple; the door would slowly shut behind them. His arms still around her would walk slowly forth into the dark room; small flames of light began to form about them floating as they danced about; almost like spirits. Perhaps the souls of the damned who failed the test; a forewarning. Either way, it seemed fairly terrifying. Yet as he turned to Sera he'd arch a brow, "Think you could be my light this time around; got a magic for this dark?" he asked curiously

He wasn't afraid of the dark per say; no that would be silly. But in a game like this, it was more what lingered in the dark. The sound of chitter-chatter among the darkness was creeping him out, yet the scurrying of feet made this even more troublesome as he felt something bump past him, "That was you wasn't it?" he asked curiously as something would brush against her back side, "That wasn't me I swear...I felt it too." he'd say spinning taking out his sword and shield, a bit on edge he'd note the laughter passing between them as he looked lower just barely making out the shadow of a smaller creature, "Is that a knoll?" he asked nervously. Slowly attempting to press his back against her's for coverage. "What's the plan boss?" he'd ask giving the command since she seemed to be his life line now more than ever. The room just dark enough to play games on one's mind and let it go wild.

@Sera Phim

 

"You were already a part of this," she said to Aaron after he read to her the strange message he got. "Though seriously, creepy rhyming things?I'm judging these people, just a bit."

Even with the matter of astramancy requiring a longer chant to do the same thing, it was a short spell for Sera to use a small amount of geomancy to close the gaps which the darts aiming at the two were shooting from. "It's actually simple," she said when the man asked about the key. "They said they're an order who keeps an eye on magic users, and know secrets of magic? They key has to be magic itself. Like, right there, a trap that is solved with geomancy. I think we might find that there will be a test for each type of magic for me. I'm not sure what they'll want from you," she said. "Especially since you don't have any magic yourself, yet."

When Aaron found the hand-shaped things in the way, Sera frowned. "That's strange. But I think it makes sense. As players, technically, our characters all have potential for magic. Perhaps that's what it is sensing?" She asked, placing her own hand against the one on that side. With a loud creak, the doors of the temple would open slowly inward as both hand holes glowed. The sound wasn't exactly ominous, but creaking doors was never an inviting sound.

At the dancing lights, Sera frowned. She chanted softly and waved her free hand in a circle. The lights stopped their dance and slowly formed into one orb of light. A brief sentence later, and the light brightened to fill the entire room. Many hallways were visible, and Sera knew they'd come upon another test - choosing the right one. The orb floated to rest in Sera's hand, but she offered it to Aaron. "Hold this, while I deal with our friend," she said, gesturing toward the creature, who was now revealed on the light.

The creature was a wolf - a large one, but by the collar on it's next obviously a tame one. Sera knelt down and extended a hand toward the wolf, who smelled it cautiously. She looked back to Aaron. "Geomancy to stop the darts. Illumancy to gather the lights. Naturalmancy to do something with this wolf?" She wondered aloud. Without waiting for confirmation, she turned back to the wolf and began to chant, tapping into the realm of astramancy. Her eyes glowed green, and the wolf's did as well.

Seeing through the eyes of a wolf was a strange experience. Smelling through its nose was stranger still. There seemed to be a pleasant scent coming from the second furthest hallway on the right, which only the wolf's senses could detect. Sera released the spell and returned to her own body. She stumbled a bit, both from the sudden shift and the energy expenditure. She grabbed onto Aaron's arm for support, before pointing at the correct hallway. "That's the one we want," she said.

 

Smiling steele would note her sudden change in attitude; the geomancy protecting them.Then there was the door; her words echoed he had the potential for magic? Looking to his hand after said event, he'd walk into the base, lips parting to chat as they discussed the finer details, before he took on a defensive stance. Her summoning of the light he'd smile until he realized the dark had played tricks on his mind. As she handed him the orb it remained bright, perhaps even brighter. Almost as if it was feeding off his energy to some degree perhaps foreshadowing his potential magic.

Yet there was a beast in the room. Eyes scanning over to the wolf he'd frown some "Great, now we got to slay it..." he said before she took the lead perhaps to show him another way. His eyes shifting as she seemed to tame the beast; walking over he'd look over them to see what was up; noting the sudden change in their eyes before she fell some. Catching her he'd smile, "Easy there tiger...don't go using up all your magic." he'd say teasing her, holding her in his arms, his eyes locking with hers as he gave a loving look. "We can slow down if you need to rest; your doing all the heavy lifting. I know how troublesome this can be on you." he'd say moving the hair from her face to get a better look at her eyes. It wouldn't be long before he made his next move though.

His arms sliding beneath her he'd carry her towards the path; taking her lead as he took the paths she suggested. It wouldn't be long before he walked into a room; ice cold. As he looked about the male noted some empty torches. Letting her down he'd look to the torch and bring it over to her to light it. Turning had she done so he'd walk into the frozen door; covered in ice. Eyes turning back he'd look at her, but as he did so he'd not notice the flame upon the ice slowly setting it a blaze. Oil hidden along the ice; so what were they to do. Pyromancy would set the place a blaze, but Hydromancy would only flood the room. Eyes shifting he'd look to her, "Alright love, how do we solve this one. The ice is too thick to crack, it's getting colder and at the same time I doubt we can melt enough ice without flooding the room. It seems like this was designed with another option in mind. I must be failing to understand. Maybe..."

He'd say walking about with the torch setting the room blaze to a degree.The ice melting but at the same time evaporating slowly. It would be a few moments before he'd turn to her. "If we melt the door only then this should counter balance this room. I'm almost certain there is a key in that iced off room or cage. Whatever you ant to call it and If you were to look up there must be a secret room or hatch. why fill a room you can't escape. I'd be willing to bet my life on it. Whenever you are ready; send me up wih some water and I'll look. Assuming I'm right, I'll get the key and unlock it for us as we flood the room, can you hold your breath?" He'd ask curiously. His body shifting as he made his way off to where the key might be.

Seeing as these were all magical tasks, he would be useless. At least for now or until he could understand why the door glew and why the Lights didn't fade out as quick. Looking back down at his hands as he held the orb still; it fading slowly he'd try to concentrate upon it; the light growing a bit larger but then once more fading. "You see that...maybe I'm seeing things. This place is making me crazy...but I can't let it get dark again, I don't like this temple. Besides how can I be your light if I let the dark in and engulf us." he said focusing on the ball of light until she got the key and the two could move on to the next task.

The male tossing the ball up and catching it as he scouted the room for the assumed exit, "Found it...back left corner." he said as he smiled some and turned to her, "I'm ready when you are now, have you gained back enough of your strength Sera or do you need a bit longer?" he's say shivering some before walking over to wrap his arms around her to keep a bit warm his lips kissing her forehead and embracing her until she was ready; letting her go then and not a moment sooner. "I'm glad I decided to join you, this is gonna be one of those adventures we tell our grand kids huh?" he said teasing hoping to make her blush; the cold air showing just how hot he was; steam practically pouring off his armor and his cheeks a rosey red.

@Sera Phim

 

Sera pouted when Aaron lifted her up. "I can walk by myself," she protested softly, but made no move to do so. Being carried did give her the chance to rest and regain her energy a bit more steadily, so that when the next test came she would be ready to cast however many spells she might need to - hopefully no more than three, preferably two.

She shivered violently as they reached the cold room, and lit the torch for Aaron almost immediately. When it came to getting through the door, however, Sera mused for a bit. "Alright, I'll melt the water... be quick, though. Controlling the water is going to use a lot of my energy." She sighed, "Time to Moses this bitch, I guess." She reached her hand out toward the ice and began to chant. Fire licked from her finger tips, igniting the oil around the ice, causing the room to heat up quickly. Luckily, that spell didn't take much energy, as the oil would do most the work of fueling the fire. Immediately, though, Sera began to chant again, taking control of the waters as they came from the melting ice. The water split on either side so that it wouldn't disrupt Sera's chanting, leaving her in a dry area in the middle as the water filled up the room on all sides of her. She continued chanting the entire time, because she knew the moment she stopped, all the water would slam into her.

Once Aaron had gotten the key, though, she took a deep breath and stopped chanting. The water height lowered as it all crashed inward, slamming into her from all sides as the water rushed to level itself out and fill the entire room. The air was knocked out of Sera's lungs, and it took all she had to not gasp for breath as the water thrashed her around. She lost sight of where Aaron was, but hoped he would go for the door first, so that the water would drain. Her chest screamed, aching for her to gasp and take a breath for air, but she didn't know which way was up, she was too scared to open her eyes under the water and look. Silently, she begged Aaron to move with as much haste as he could.

 

Her pouting was cute and it only seemed to trigger his smile more. As she carried her, then they arrived in the room it seemed they figured out the riddle together; the water, the oil and the fire. As he watched her part the water like Mose he'd managed to grab the key though, opening the door was the next goal; yet as he went towards it; water would collide inward from both side; pinning him and Sera. Being larger it hadn't squeezed the life from him at least not yet, nor to the degree, it might have Sera. However, it did manage to shock him enough to make him drop the key. Eyes shifting once he settled some above the water; momentarily catching his breath he'd sink back down and swim to the key; eyes noting his lover at the distance he'd grab the key and make haste towards the door.


Arriving at said door would only lead to its lock freezing up; that and the pure fact that pressure on his side made the opening a bit too easy. Opening he'd find himself flung forth into an empty room as the water pooled out some. Fighting against the water he'd hold onto the door until the water level plummeted enough, yet it seemed that again somehow the cold took her breath away and she'd nearly drowned. Rushing over as he started pulling himself up and onto his feet, he'd slid beside her; the room still cold, her lips purple he'd once more attempt CPR before giving her mouth to mouth to force the liquids out of her. A saddened look passed as she coughed up the icy cold waters; his arms wrapped around her forced him to hold her tight. She was freezing, far worse than him. Holding her so close he'd watch the health meter go down slowly. Despite saving her it appeared she'd die.

No...she can't. He'd mutter to himself as he squeezed tighter his eyes closed as he prayed for her health to recover; it would be but a few moments as he then realized his hands were a glow and her health was slowly going up; the warmth adding to her body temperature regulation. Eyes opening he'd look down both confused but happy; a voice not far off in his head whispered; wiseFinally my son you are awoken. Protect the ones you love; use this new gift. Pray away young hero" he'd hear looking around as he felt the glow fading; yet he'd focus as best he could praying as the glow lasted a bit longer before he fell back magically drained; inexperienced he'd look over to Sera, his eyes slowly fading as he passed out feet making their way towards them.

As he had passed out it appeared that several men in robes appeared before them. Each taking to the wounds of the two; a warm smile passing their lips. They seemed peaceful, kind and as such trustworthy. As they helped the two out another appeared in some sort of higher quality robe. Lips parting he'd wave a hand and speak.

"Welcome children of magic, the gods wisely to choose you. I'm brother Merlin, I help run this temple. You've passed our test and are free to come and go as you please. If and when you are ready to learn more about this magic, we will indeed teach you."

He'd say as they slowly picked up Aaron's body and possibly Sera's as well. Taking them deeper into the temple before what appeared to be resetting the traps. Once inside they'd leave them both in a room; robes included as they seemed to vanish. Yet within the mind of the newfound magician, he'd seem lost. His being surrounded by darkness, yet his hands a glow; light pouring from them as he found himself the main source in the room. Words once more echoing, in that voice.

You've made the choice to become the light in the dark, to defend the innocent and protect those you love. You fight for Justice; the law. The voice would say before another appeared. But you also fight with such great strength admiration and overall Honor. Now in unison, the duo would speak, You must devote yourself to one of two paths. Lheo, the lord of war. Will you fight for honor, strength and to lay war against your enemies or will you choose, Tyl and take on the burdens of evil in this world. Fighting for Justice, the law and Paladinhood. Become a Knight of Valor and chivalry. A true hero?

Hearing the words he'd nod he knew what he wanted. Slowly walking over his light grew stronger as he got down on his knee before Tyl and spoke, "I am a mighty warrior, I have many qualities and abilities that might suit any god. But so I won't settle to just one lord or lady of the court, However, this being said. I will, however, show extreme loyalty to the God with whom I most relate; I am a paladin at heart. As such it is you Lord Tyl whom I will serve.It is your sacrifices that gave man a chance, allow for me to prove your actions were not in vain, nor has it gone unappreciated. In the name of the Elysid Court, I hereby claim from this day forth; my path. I shall begin my walks of Paladinhood; with the aid of you all and my sworn leader; Tyl."As his words wrapped up the dream would become a bit fuzzier and fade
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Sometime later Aaron would away a warm smile on his face before he looked to find Sera; he wished to tell her of his tale. Yet he was hoping she wouldn't think him mad. Raising to his feet he'd find himself stripped and in new robes; still trash tier or of little use to a heavy armor user. His eyes shifting some he'd notice the door and the room itself. Walking to it he'd feel almost an uncanny feeling. Opening he'd see a wall lined with photos of the gods as he saw directly across from him Tyl. Taking a knee he'd bow his head in respect; although it was a game it felt all too real; honor bound by his words.

"My lord I shall make you and the rest of the gods proud. Feel free to make me your tool of justice and claim forth my body as your instrument as needed. I shall do your bidding as well as the other lords and ladies, so long as justice is the true victor."

He'd mutter aloud as he got off his knee and began to walk some running into another robed initiate, 'Good Brother Steele, come with me I'll take you to Merlin, Your training will begin.' Arching a brow he'd part his lip to ask "Training?" the other nodding "Yes, in Illumancy, are you not the Paladin the gods told us about, traveling with the questionable but powerful mage?" he'd ask before Aaron nodded and he lead him off to some room; to meet Merlin their Arch-mage and begin his training.

OOC: Sorry for length; had something I needed to express to progress for Aaron.
@Sera Phim

 

Sera slowly blinked awake. The panic, fear, and confusion that had swept her up along with the water was gone now. It was replaced with an almost supernatural calm, of collectedness, of peace. She laid there, on the strange bed that couldn't really be called soft, for it was obviously a bed intended to be for an order of monks, and as such did without unnecessary comforts, but the plainness of it seemed to add a level of comfort all of it's own. It was pleasant, in a manner which Sera hoped would never require her to recreate nor would she be inclined to. While she wished for lavish luxuries and extravagant comforts, she could appreciate the little things along the road to those heights.

Finally she sat up. In another bed, not far from her, lay Aaron. She mused. That was strange. Why would monks put an unmarried couple in the same room? She looked down at her hands. Had they thought that the ring on her finger, used to help her recharge her energy, might be a wedding ring? Perhaps they thought it was possible, but being completely certain did not wish to put them in the same bed. She shrugged. She supposed it did not matter. She looked down to find that she had been dressed in clean robes, and she could sense they were about the same as what she normally wore as far as game mechanics went.

She stood up and began to walk toward Aaron, when she noticed that someone was standing in the doorway. She turned to see a man, who bowed to her. "I have been sent to bring you to your instructor," the man said.

Sera bowed back. "Thank you," she said.

The monk led her through the temple to an area that seemed strangely like a forge, only there was no fire, and the anvils all glowed with magical energy. However, there was no one inside the room. She turned toward the monk who had led her here. "Where is my instructor?" She asked.

The monk bowed to her again. "I am Brother Matthias. I will be your instructor," he said. He stepped further into the room. "Powerful magic runs through your veins. The magic of Astramancy. The magic of realms beyond our understanding. Or at least... the understanding of those stuck inside this world. This... game." The man turned to Sera with a twinkle in his eyes. "Your ears do not deceive you. Indeed, I wondered if you would notice. Like yourself, I am a player in this world. Yet I do not see it as a game. On earth, I suffer from a rare medical disease. I can move no part of my body, or even feed myself. As such, since this world has existed, it has been my only life. Yet I am not a man who dreams of adventures, or riches, or any such things. No, I found my home with these monks. I explained my player-based abilities as a form of magic. Brother Merlin, the leader of the group, however, is wise, and I suspect he may have saw through that, but nonetheless, he accepted me into the group. I am the one who sent the messages to you and your companion."

Sera laughed. "I had wondered, as I did not believe NPCs could send messages like that. What do you have to teach me, then?" She asked. "I am eager to learn."

Matthias smiled. "What I have to instruct you on is... simple, at least on my end." He gestured toward the anvils. There were nine of them, and each glowed a color that Sera recognized as corresponding to the same colors her magic used. "Upon each of these anvils, I would like you to forge a weapon. The process will be different than you are used to. Simply tap into the magic you need, place one hand upon the anvil, and image you are forging the weapon. The magic of this place will do the rest for you. If you are able to completely all nine, then this world will recognize you as ready to learn the power of Conjuring. From then forward, you will be able to create astral weapons at any time. You will not even have to create one of the nine you create here, but any kind. Good luck." Matthias bowed, and made his departure from the room. "If your friend finishes his training first, I will bring him here to you."

Sera frowned a bit, looking around. Where was she to start with a project such as this? Vaguely, she wondered if Aaron had begun his training yet, and what he might be doing. She had never heard of conjuring before, but she had heard rumors of "advanced masteries", masteries hidden from the selection at the beginning which a player had to learn of in game. Could Conjuring be one of those? If that was the case, she reasoned it would take more effort to learn this magic than the Illumancy she suspected Aaron would be learning. At least, she figured it would probably be illumancy. He'd shown hints of magical abilities, the orb had glowed in his hand, and he talked about being a light. Vaguely, she thought she might even have remembered him healing her and praying over her, but that was likely a dream. She chuckled. Aaron, as perverted as he was, praying. That was a funny mental image. Then again, he had said he wanted to be a paladin.... illumancy and piety went hand in hand with that. "Oh, goddess..." Sera muttered. "Please don't tell me he's going to have to take a vow of chastity...."

 

As the male had only just woken from a powerful dream; related to the gods in the game. It was strange, to dream within an illusion of a dream. None the less he'd prepared to leave only to be caught by another; who seemed to wish to lead him to a man of great magical power; merlin. His mentor, although it, seemed odd he was being trained and not his beloved;"Wait is my love Sera alright, is she off training too?" pausing in place the NPC would turn and nod, Your friend is fine, but love...they did not tell us a Paladin was in love. Have you two...you know that it's standard for most to commit to their god and take a vow of chastity; abstaining from any and all forms of sex. His words echoing in the back of his mind as he screamed internally. A faint smile on the males lips meant he was either enjoying this torture or messing with him; hoping for the latter he'd laugh nervously as they once more headed deeper into the temple so that he might meet with his trainer.

Arriving not but minutes later he'd look around, no Sera still. Yet the promise to bring her had she finished before him seemed most appropriate. Turning he'd bow as he met the one known as Merlin, taking a knee as he placed his arm over his chest, "An honor to meet you brother Merlin. I've heard great things, I've also heard you wish to meet with a paladin told to you by your gods. I must apologize as I'm just a lowly knight. But, as my dreams have recently awoken me I've realized I might be more. For this reason, alone I have come to terms with such a process and taken a vow; albeit in my dreams, a man's word is his word. I'll serve the gods of this world well, but Tyl in specific has my honor and attention. The thought of justice and protecting others has always been my ideals; it was my real world counterpart for joining this game; I've become, devoted to this cause as such. I've realized my power; albeit weak and costly I've tapped into the power of Illumancy." He'd say happily as the male nodded and began to speak,

'But do you truly know what it means to have the gift from the gods; the ability to use the divine power to heal others or smite your enemies? Come, boy, I'll show you what I mean' he'd say leading him forth. His hands twisting with ease bringing up the undead would normally cause for some alarm as he smiled, 'You see there is no such thing as bad magic; magic is inherently neutral for all intensive purposes a tool to keep the balance. What we associate with dark magic is in all technicality our own bias projected onto the magic. The exception, of course, being Malefimancy, but that isn't so much as evil but just a polar to Illumancy. One simply, heals and protects while the other curses and brings about death. In its natural state; normal things, but when combined with the power of man and his free will you have the wizard or the warlock. One mage of good alignment and the other of a more questionable teaching. So in this temple, we do not blame the magic, we blame the user. This is your first lesson."

A faint smile passing as he then continued with his speech, "But something tells me you've already accepted that fact into your life, given your friend and her various magics I am sure you've accepted her for who she is. But with this lesson taught, we will begin learning about your magic; then practice it some. For starters, this divine power not only heals and protects but it can smite those of malicious intent; the gods love for you protecting you to a degree; although your faith and devotion are how powerful that magic can become. With practice and devotion, you'll become a powerful Paladin, I have no doubt. But with that comes the choice you must make, take the vow and follow the chastity or don't and just use your magic. The truth is, even the gods have sex. But, to prove your love for them you shouldn't assume you take your vow as a paladin serious and aren't a hypocrite. None the less, there are other vows which with permission from the church you may be granted; visit the head priest in Stokbon for more details"

A faint box popped up almost as if a side quest, accepting the male would demonstrate the smite skill upon the summoned undead as it seemed to do a heavy amount of damage. Eyes shifting he'd turn to use a generic magic and show the difference in damage, albeit still strong. "This is the potential your magic carries. Now are you ready to begin your training?" he'd ask some with a smile as he walked over to a fire, placing a hand on it. A faint glow passed as he healed himself, avoiding burns for several seconds; nearly a minute. Turning he'd chuckle and point to the flames, 'If you can do this I'll teach you the next trick. Besides you are some Elixirs and water; use them wisely I'll be back in an hour.' It was then he'd head off to check up on Sera as Aaron walked over and tried to do the hand glow. Failing almost immediately he had little to no clue how to tap into it, outside of prayer and extreme focus; which was hard given his mind was on Sera; a distraction and probably why Chastity was a thing for most; a weak mind can lead to death.

As his hand floated over the flame he'd focus his hardest to heal but instead, he burned again pulling back quickly. His other hand raising over would attempt to help heal the other; a small ball between the two as he managed to keep a semi-consistent healing pattern going between the two, but soon felt the effects, nearly ten minutes later he'd sit and sigh, not wanting to take the bottles of Elixir he'd wait a minute and try again; stubborn yet determined. He'd once more begin his training; hands glowing and drained. A technique as old and powerful as time. His slapping of the water in a barrel. Eventually, he too could split a table in half with his palms' metaphorically speaking; gain control of the magical flow and do this one handed indefinately. However that specific sort of feat wouldn't be for a while and without much practice. Thoughts shifting from Sera and how she was doing it would remain upon the flame and the hand trying to keep consistent and steady magic to his hands;healing.

@Sera Phim

OOC:Merlin is heading to see you; post is mainly about me and my training.

 

Sera approached the closest anvil to her. The anvil was glowing a deep red, and she could feel heat pouring off of it. The magic of pyromancy, then, she gathered. She placed her hand upon the anvil, and she felt energy flood into her. She shouted in surprise, and jumped back. The energy had been so violent, so consuming. She shivered. But she had to do this. She placed her hand on the anvil again and shut her eyes. What weapon would the fires of pyromancy lend to? Consuming in broad strokes, destructive, not quiet long range but dangerous to the user at short range... She began to pour the power that flooded into her back out, willing it to take shape. Her lips were moving in a chant, or possibly a prayer, which she couldn't understand. When she opened her eyes, a flaming halberd floated over the anvil. She smiled and took a step back. Yes, that would work.

Next she stepped toward the violet anvil. The magic of arcanamancy. A versatile magic. The manipulation of raw energy, allowing for short range teleportation and effective at any range, though costly. It would have to be a ranged weapon, then, though not one that would only be used at range. She placed her hand upon the anvil, and once more felt energy flow into her. She exhaled, and once more redirected that energy before her. Arcanamancy was obviously best represented by knives. Short distance or long, knives could operate either like daggers or as weapons to be thrown, but throwing them required a large stockpile to not run out of ammo. A knife had a solid advantage over larger weapons when they were so close the other could not strike them, which arcanamancy allowed with teleportation. Sera stepped back from the anvil, and smiled at the three spectral knives that floated above it.

Her next steps took her to the indigo anvil. Aeromancy. Whether the swift wind or the striking lightning, a brutal hurricane or a twisting tornado, aeromancy was a magic that was strongest when it was applied with pinpoint accuracy, but by no means did could it not overcome with sheer force. What weapon could capture that? Sera mused. It had to be a bow. The arrow striking from afar when aimed was like the lightning bolt, and when fields of archers let loose their arrows, they were releasing a hurricane of death. Sera gripped the anvil tightly. In her mind's eyes, she pictured the most beautiful, ornate bow ever. As the energy flowed into her and right back out, she smiled. When she was finished, she took a step back and admired her work. Not bad...

The orange anvil was next. The magic of geomancy was the simplest. It was a rock hard magic, build to overpower enemies through brute force or to defend it's user. To this point so far, Sera had mostly used it defensively. As such, there was no question what it could be. She placed her hand upon the anvil, and it wasn't long before a mighty shield floated in the space above the anvil. Sera let out a heavy sigh as she stumbled away. This work was certainly taxing. While the anvils were providing most the energy, there was still a solid portion coming from her. She panted for a moment, before pushing on. She knew Aaron wouldn't be slacking in his training, there was no way she could slack in hers.

The blue magic of hydromancy would be Sera's next project. The sweeping waves of water, matched with the the chilling touch of ice. Water as a weapon was best for sweeping attacks, while ice was best for thrusts. A weapon that satisfied both of those tasks was perhaps the most generic, albeit unfortunately overused, weapon in fantasy. As Sera placed her hand upon the anvil, she felt energy wash over her. She let the power roll over her, picturing herself as a beach on a summer noon. As the "tide" of energy began to depart, a brilliant long sword would float into existance above the anvil, it's edges sharp and it's point lethal. She smiled as she stepped away to admire her work.

Following the magic of hyrdomancy would be the magic of phantasmia. Illusions.... they played on ones fears and desires. Tricking you with what was not there, what could be there, hiding what was. They necessitated a sickly and twisted weapon. As Sera placed her hand upon this anvil, she felt terror seep into her. Voices whispered around her, and the lights of the room flickered. She willed the energy to leave her, picturing a twisted flail of three spiked orbs attached by rusty chains to a rod-like handle. She shivered when she looked upon the weapon. It was one she would be hesitant to ever use herself.

Sera approached the green anvil slowly. Naturalmancy. What weapon could ever capture the power that was to be connected with the entirety of nature itself? Healing flowed from the springs of naturalmancy, plants and trees blossomed at it's command, and animals came to it's call. She paused. Did the weapons have to be strictly those of steel and power? She hadn't been told as such. A staff would fit the magic well. A shepherd used it to guide her flock, a physician used it as their symbol, and a staff planted in the ground served as a guide for the growth of plants. As Sera touched the anvil of naturalmancy, she felt as if her senses were expanded. The energy coursing through her seemed to reach out all around. It took a great portion of her will to release that energy, to command it to form a staff. Yet she did, and as she stepped away from it, she knew she had made the right decision.

Two anvils remainded, the black anvil of malefimancy and the white anvil of illumancy. She frowned. She would wait, a tiny bit, before she attempted to work on those magics. For now, she would rest for a moment, first.

 

As the male known as Merlin had left the male worked valiantly for an hour to try and master the healing palm; a simple technique but to no avail, he wasn't getting much progress; despite the painful incentive to do so. As he worked hard Merlin would have visited Sera, at least on a spiritual plane, Astro projecting himself into the room to watch. A warm smile passed with each action she made a gentle touch upon the head as if to pat it would happen before he'd return to his body vanishing from the room and sight. As time had passed since this point nearly an hour he'd return physically to check on the Paladin in training. A faint smile passed as he managed to heal somewhat. Only using a bottle of Elixir as such; stubborn but admirable. Lips curling the old man would smile, Good job my young trainee, now focus more, clear your mind of distractions; envision the healing and it will come. Don't try to force it but let it embrace you. His word echoing through his mind he'd continue to do so as he finally began to glow like his mentor, yet he used two hands. Impressed he'd chuckle and part his lips, "Very well Aaron you making progress, now do this with only one hand by the time I return, but let's see if you can do this in a half hour. I'll be taking the Elixirs as well, I want to see if you are capable of proper magic balance now you seem to have the idea.


With that, he took his leave again leaving Aaron a bit frustrated as he needed to relax some and recover his mana or he'd have a mind down. Exhaling he's remain calm and breath, focusing on his palm he'd aim it at the fire then clear his mind of everything. The fact it was a game, the fact it was all fake, the woman he wanted to be with, yet sat next to in the real world. All of it; his mind blank. A strong resolve as he soon noted just him and the fire. Focusing his glow grew from his hand; slowly coating up past the palm to his hand slowly engulfing the digits. Eys blankly staring he'd note a hand on his shoulder and then another atop of hit. A god, not just any Tyl; granting him his strength and power he'd feel the power inside grow as he utilized the technique consistently. His mana dropping slowly as he'd figure it out. Now it was just a matter of waiting for the old man's return. At this point, Merlin would have formally introduced himself in person upon her completion of her task and lead her on to the next portion of her goal. His lips curling as he then once more left her after giving specific instructions on how to complete her task. Returning to the male he'd fold his arms over his chest. Now, show me your progress.

Eyes closed he'd lip Tyl's name as the hand glew for about twenty seconds and flopped out. Moving it away he'd look to him, "Not a minute but given my lack of mana, this is as good as I can get." he'd note as the mage nodded, "Good enough. You adventurers never fail to amaze me. You all make such quick progress yet get frustrated. I have brothers in this temple who have been here for years studying who barely last the ten seconds you lasted but in an hour and a half, you've managed to replicate such an ability. Fascinating. Now, let's see how that skill fairs against that skeleton of the dead I animated; go ahead and try to heal it. Notice the damage. Heals do the reverse to undead, spirits and those marked by a curse such as malevolent creatures conquered or controlled. It's the holy effect from such a magic. Now, lets teach you how to bring about real power. This is the last skill I'll teach you before your oath and the final test for paladin hold. He said as he raised a hand, looking to Aaron, 'In the names of the Elysid Court; I smite thee..' he'd say turning the creature to ash before turning to Steele, 'Now your turn..' conjuring up another he'd watch. Aarons hand raising as he focused and it glew his stance ready to fight he'd try to quote the man, "In the names of Eleesid court I smite thee.." his words echoing as a light shot down hitting the beast for minimal damage; still boosted.

Sighing he'd turn to the other as he shouted again. Raising his hand he'd do the same, trying over and over becoming exhausted and frustrated he'd finally snap, "I THE NAME OF MY LORD TYL ILL SMITE THEE!" he shouted punching his fist forth grasping the creature's skull as the light exploded from his hand causing the beast to explode. The thrill and adrenaline fading he'd fall to his knee as the male nodded, "Alright, good enough, come with me and let us meet up with your friend." he said chuckling as he made his way with the lad to a room. Once there he'd move them to join each other, 'I've done the training instructed of me, what you will do with your new gifts is up to you. However, for you Aaron, you will need to decide to become devoted or continue to let temptations such as your love for her cloud your mind. And you Sera, you will need to decide how you feel about those last two anvils you were avoided; remember magic is not evil. Only those who use it to do evil are. You can utilize both darkness and light, but you can not ignore the one that calls out from your deepest depths of your soul.

Aaron's in touch with his; Illumancy. I suggest you try the same. If either of you wishes to return here to train, we will welcome you to the temple his head bowing as he opened the door to a secret entrance for them before leaving as he closed the entrance behind them. Exiting the building there was little left to do except talk; something they hadn't had a chance to do. "Well, I passed. But what do you think about what he said, do I take my vow of Chastity or Do I give up my plans to become a paladin to be with you, in hopes one day we share source code. Well, to be honest, maybe we should go to Stokbon and see a priest, I am sure there is more options, merlin mentioned it." he said hoping such a choice wasn't necessary. "Also what did he mean to choose between the last two anvils. Was that some kind of important message about your test?" he asked confused.

@Sera Phim

//End of Quest Claiming Mastery.

 

Perhaps because she knew she would need to anyway, perhaps because it had been so long since she last did, or perhaps because she was seeking companionship (or even, perhaps some mixture of all three), Sera found herself speaking the contact phrase which summoned Roy, the prism which allowed her to communicate openly with her patrons. The ability to speak with the seven spirits she had grown so close to, and the two which she still was weary of, calmed her. "So what do you think of the ones I've made so far?" She asked the spirits.

"They are quiet fitting, child. But you still have two left," the seven spirits spoke in unison. As usual, the spirits of illumancy and malefimancy did not talk as often as the others. They only talked when they were the only ones to speak.

Sera sighed. "Did you all know this was a power I could get?" She asked.

"Our pact with you allows access to many magics. We thought this would be the most comfortable for you, but in time we may whisper to you the secrets of another. That power we would teach you ourselves, for it is a great and terrible power."

"Then I don't want it," Sera said, approaching the last two anvils. "I don't want it for the same reason I'm so hesitant to use these last two magics. This world... every time I use a magical ability here, I can feel an effect on me. The powers of malefimancy and illumancy have effects on my soul itself. Who I am. That's something no one should have any say on, except for me."

She placed her hands on the black anvil, and cried out in pain as the energy that flooded into her churned her insides. She felt as if Death himself had come for her, and she was on his very doorstep. Death's scythe... She closed her eyes and focused, pouring the terrible energy back out of her. When she finished, a gruesome scythe hung above her. She shivered.

She approached the white anvil now. As she laid her hand upon it, she felt life and rejuvenation pour into her, washing over her in such a way that she couldn't remember the pain she had just been in even if she would have tried. She did not hate this power as much, but she still did not hold it dear to her heart. What was a fitting weapon to represent life itself? She clenched her jaw. Perhaps this would not make anyone happy, but it was fitting. She poured the energy back out and created an exact replica of the scythe she had are for malefimancy. This time, bathed in light, it did not seem so twisted of a weapon.

"I'm curious at your choice," spoke a man behind her.

Sera turned to see a monk, not the one she had come in with, though. They bowed to each other. "You mean why I would choose the same weapon for malefimancy and illumancy?" Sera asked. "It's simple. They're the same thing. Light and dark, life and death, they're nothing except two sides of the same coin. Darkness is just the absence of photons, death is just the absence of life. Hell is just the absence of heaven."

The monk chuckled. "An interesting theory," he said. He looked to the prism floating by Sera's head. "And I suppose this is how you communicate with the spirits who lend you their powers?" He asked.

Sera nodded. "Yes, I call it Roy."

The monk smiled at her. "Well, I believe Roy and you are done here."

"But I don't know how to conjure the weapons without the anvils," Sera said.

The monk laughed. "You have your anvil," he pointed to Roy. "You're not the one conjuring them anyway, not really. In the magic of Astramancy, the spirits do all the work. We just provide them the energy. That is what they gain."

Sera placed her hand on Roy. Was the man telling the truth? She spoke briefly, beseeching the spirit of hyrdomancy to test the man's theory. Suddenly, a shimmering blue sword manifested in the air before her. She laughed and let the spell end. "Well, that's fantastic! So I didn't even need those anvils at all! It was just to convince my that I had help, and was doing something, when I wasn't?" She asked.

The monk nodded, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Yes. Your paladin friend is facing the same. Minor illusions of undead threats to show him that he can smite the undead. When the time comes, he will be able to, so long he believes he can. For now, he does not have to know what he truly does," the monk laughed.

When Sera and Aaron met back up, she embraced the man, though not for long as they were still under the watchful eyes of the monks. "I think the chastity thing is probably a joke," she said at Aaron's question. "As for the anvils... I will explain later. Some things are best discussed in private."