Knuckles Shi glanced around the beach, the golden sands stretching out to meet the azure waters of the Ionian Sea. The sunlight glittered off the waves, creating a mesmerizing dance of light. The beach was the perfect setting for the party, reminiscent of ancient Seven celebrations by the sea, with a touch of Seven grandeur in the form of elegant columns set up around the area.

Knuckles set up the large BBQ grills, the smell of sizzling meats and freshly caught seafood mingling with the salty sea air. The grills themselves were a sight to behold, crafted in the style of ancient braziers yet modernized for convenience. Around the grills, he arranged a variety of local delicacies: olives, feta cheese, roasted vegetables, and fresh bread.

He adjusted the decorations, ensuring the garlands of olive branches and vibrant flowers were perfectly draped around the tables and tents. The tents, inspired by Seven pavilions, provided shaded areas for dining and lounging, with plush cushions and low tables set up in an inviting manner.

His girlfriend was helping with the final touches, her presence calming yet invigorating. She had an eye for detail, ensuring the tables were set with beautiful ceramic plates and goblets, reminiscent of ancient pottery. Her smile was reassuring as they exchanged a glance, both hoping this gathering would ease any lingering tensions.

The Guild mates of Sleeping Calamity were starting to arrive, their faces a mix of curiosity and anticipation. Knuckles greeted them warmly, hoping to set the tone for the evening. "Welcome, everyone! Please, make yourselves at home. We've got plenty of food, drinks, and good company."

As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, casting a golden glow over the beach, Knuckles felt a sense of optimism. This party was not just a celebration but a chance for them all to come together, share stories, and laughter, and maybe even mend some old wounds. With his culinary skills, his girlfriend's charm, and his determination, Knuckles was hopeful that tonight would be a success.

Knuckles was kind enough to extend an invitation to the celebrations, though one could argue that this guild would serve as her second home. This was just her first steps toward getting situated with the new environment and culture and a chance to meet his new brother and sisters in arms. The excitement left her giddy, if not, somewhat nervous. The Demoness never quite cared for such things before, the irksome desire to be liked or wanted since perhaps the first time she stepped into the Paradise Dawn guild hall; since then, she assumed anyone would simple have to take her as she was. Yet now that this was for her beloved, she simply couldn’t remain indifferent.

Lumikki’s ravens were perched among the columns and tents along the beach, they never strayed too far from their master, but promise at a chance of food left them quite eager and observant. They’d announce the approach of others in words only Lumikki would know, alerting her of their guests arrival.

Eight servants, all the boon of a mysterious key from with the Demoness acquire, helped in the preparation of the gathering. Tending to set up of tents and the arranging the garlands while Lumikki carefully arranged the plates and pottery Knuckles invested in for the guild’s use. Depictions of old Seven lavish scenes on the ceramic. The servants wore tradition Icebergian linens, though more thin than the usual kind at home, with bluish purple sashes and traditions patterns. Black feathers adorned their dress as well whether as hair accessories or broaches.

Meanwhile Lumikki held her white hair back in braids and red ribbons, the lower sections loose and flowing with the wind. She wore a short soft pink, somewhat puffed out sundress a motif or red and pink flowers. Her citrine and sapphire eyes hidden behind thick dark, rounded shades to block the annoyance of the prevalent sun, though its presence got easier with moment it came closer to kissing the horizon. Her lips and eyes were painted black with shadow, a laurel wreath with forget me nots and red Bougainvillea flowers adorned the crown of her head and she’d wear a small black choker consisting of raven feathers and red ribbon. Her black stained hands jingled with the clanking of her silver bangles and her legs and feet were coiled with living shadows that served as a barrier for the clinging sand below.

Lumikki, who didn’t fair the best with the heat of warmer climates, pushed her aura so that chill may hang in the air long before the sun departed. There were various places where large black frost blossoms sprouted, ushering a cool air in the areas they were in. And as she passed by in her various little errands to get things started, she’d snack and sustain on the shadows cast on the tables she had worked to arrange.

”I still worry love, do ye think they’d have me?” Lumikki approached Knuckles as he welcomed his guests, her skin and hair painted in the warm hues of the descending sun. Despite her dark nature, Lumikki was glowing softly and in her anxiousness she’d cling onto his arm. The sounds of her birds announcements continued to echo, alerting her of more to come.

As those two stood at the entry for their visitors, Lumikki’s inner flock would visit their old friend. ”How is it being busy in Seven…Murder was it? Even the air feels different here, has your new life been serving you well?” It was Lonu who approached Murder first, followed by Trygve and Gunvald. ”Yes, good of you to find another master. Reassured Lumikki is faring fine but it’s nice to have you coming to and fro.” Trygve was always pleased when another raven found their place elsewhere. It would leave him with more room with their absence, but he would always despair that of all the ravens it wasn’t Gunvald who left to join Knuckles instead. ”Aaah yes, you know how to pick ‘em don’t you lad. Not many people turn up to a fight like him. If I wasn’t so invested in the carnage our demon could have, maybe I’d find my way to Seven as well…..now….tell me of those fight ya seen! Has to be a lot by now, no?”

Harrison was an odd man, Odd enough at times that things he may be invited too how he showed up to these events might show for how smart and grand he was about his goals. Harrison was sometimes a little stuck on other things. Various times it was social norms and things he should be logically prepared for. But his mind was always on other things sometimes trying to talk to Harrison about anything that isn't his desired task in life. But Harrison's fore coming problems would eventually show there was other things on hand to see now.

Harrison arrived at the beach, entirely just in the clothing he was seen wearing the first time she showed up here. His clothing was still clean so he still took care of it and washed it all. But he still was wearing that compared to most likely anything a person would wear to a beach normally.  One could question if he really got invited and went go beaches before, His behaviour was a bit different to most people, While he managed to settle into seven with out much problem, he really did not try to get much sun light often.

He had just dived into note taking and theories. At least when requested to show up here, he did. So he did still pay attention. Harrison always seemed to be observing the world around him at times. Even remarking to him in wonder if in fact Ravens where common in this area. But he figured it was not best to question things and continue on his way.  Walking until he at least saw some one who he knew then merely just stood by waiting, Then after a minute he would find some shade to stand under and stand under it.

Outfit:

Ittindi was driving down the beaches of seven in his Mana-car. For once he wasn’t in a suit instead opting for a swimsuit and sunglasses his guns and suit were still in the car. Not that he’d mention that to anyone. In a worse case scenario he still had his spear and his magic. Ittindi’s hair was more of a mess than usual as he had been letting it grow due to his training. With General Saturn taking over for the Rune Knights he had been given more freedom than he expected on policing the world. What better way than hanging out with his Young Master, two birds with one stone.

He immediately spotted the party, and his Young Master had really learned a thing or two from his time as a noble. There was an aura of elegance, though he had imagined more of a casual event. That was ok, it probably operated as a disguise that he wasn’t in a suit, as he parked the car a decent distance away from the festivities but still within eyesight of Ittindi. He’d hop out the car and star walking through the sand towards the festivities.

As he approached closer he could make out Lady Lumikki in a different outfit and color scheme than her usual  winter allure, something warm for the country of hotheads. Ittindi wondered if the festival set up was hers or his Young Master’s doing. Something he’d have to tease out during the processions before him, hopefully he wouldn’t have to deal with any of the more bonehead members of Sleeping Calamity. He could still a remember a few if they were all back.

He almost considered sprinting up to the Young Master as to be first, but decided against it, thinking that the others would love to have an impromptu foot race.  That would kick sand about and ruin the whole display in Ittindi’s professional opinion, he couldn’t help but look at how the servants acted. They were Lady Lumikki’s if he wasn’t mistaken the same that she had used around him.

”It looks beautiful Young Master, Lady Lumikki…Have you enjoyed your time being a guild leader Young Master, I had feared that you would run from leadership forever. I can’t wait to see what you do with Sleeping Calamity.”

Hopefully he wouldn’t do anything that would require Ittindi’s intervention. He had purposedly shied away from any briefs on the country beforehand. Better for him not to see patterns or come in with any assumptions against his Young Master. Especially on such a festive day.

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The sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden glow over the tranquil beach. The waves lapped gently at the shore, their rhythmic sound a soothing backdrop to the scene before her eyes. From the edge of the dunes, a striking figure emerged, her long red hair catching the light and shimmering like fire. The tips of her hair were dipped in black, creating a dramatic contrast. The beach within the land of Seven was even more beautiful than she would have thought. But in all regards, it looked even more large that it failed to be described by the words, grandeza, in her opinion. The atmosphere certainly had a nice touch done to it. Far from its natural state, she could only guess that it was at the hand of the demonic benefactor of this gathering.
Jikan walked with a confident grace, her white bikini accentuating her sun-kissed skin. A calmness at her spirit despite the situation she was in, her presence commanding yet serene. Her expression was calm, almost emotionless, as if she were a statue come to life. The gentle waves lapped at her feet, mirroring the tranquility she exuded. Around her, friends and unknown personalities mingled, their chatter and laughter a distant hum in her serene world. She was a beacon of stillness amidst the lively scene, her aura as white and pure as her skin, untouched by the chaos around her.
The woman paused for a moment, taking in the scene before her. The beach was alive with laughter and conversation, a tapestry of human connection. She felt a sense of belonging, yet the presence of the unknown personalities added a layer of intrigue to the moment. With a stiff small serene smile, she continued her walk, ready to embrace whatever the day might bring. After all, she owed some of the familiar faces here that at least, to be civil and cordial today. "Not...bad".

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twc: 322

The beach was captivating, causing the Lich to stare in awed silence. He stood in his mortal disguise, not wanting his true nature to cause undue panic. The soft golden sand presented a warm sensation underfoot, a nostalgic feeling he had not experienced in ages. The water, a mesmerizing shade of blue and turquoise, sparkled under the sunlight, reflecting the sky above in a dazzling display. The guild had set aside this time to mingle and relax; bonding time, if you will. Normally, Tsukishima would have declined attending such an event, preferring to remain on the border as a part-time member, only responding to situations that required combat. However, this time, he felt a strange compulsion to join. Perhaps some vestiges of his previous mortality were seeping through. Regardless, he decided to make the most out of the situation.

As he moved closer to the festivities, he saw his guildmates beginning to arrive. Knuckles was attending to the grill while others mingled among themselves. Some he recognized as fellow guild members, while others were unfamiliar faces, likely friends of the guild. "Looks like a good turnout." he said to Knuckles as he passed by, the words genuine. Tsukishima grabbed a drink, though primarily for show, and moved to a quiet spot where he could observe and enjoy the day. He watched as people chatted, their carefree demeanor contrasting sharply with the nature of the guild. It was a rare sight to see everyone so relaxed, and he found himself appreciating the moment more than he expected. The sound of the waves and the laughter of friends created a peace he hadn't felt in a long time. For a moment, Tsukishima allowed himself to forget his undead nature and simply enjoy the day as any other member of the guild.


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Total Word Count: 299

Knuckles looked over at Lumikki when she asked if they would have her. Knuckles strolled over towards her at an even pace. Grapsing her hands into her own Knuckles kissed her forehead and smiled down at her. "They either accept you or die. There is no other choice for them." Knuckles said half-jokingly, well maybe quarter-jokingly. Meanwhile, Murder had rejoined his former companions of Lumikki's flock. "Yes Murder it is. Seven has been new, it reks of unclean gods and their faith called champions. Unlike Our Lady's Champion. He has turned away no challenger, and with each fight for glory, he gains reputation and social power. I know when he Fought Brone that the warrior spirit lived true in his soul. I wanted to see how he got that soul back. Never did I assume he would hand it to our Lumikki."


It seemed his guests were starting to appear, Harrison was the first to arrive but on his heels was no other than Ittindi, his best friend. Knuckles started to perk up seeing his friends arrive. "Sir Harrison, I am pleased you could make it. Please help yourself with the food and refreshments, after we have all gathered we can start with games and a small speech.

Knuckles greeted Ittindi as he approached and smiled warmly at his childhood friend. "Well, I had plans to do just that. However, this woman here has shown me that I must go for what I want. It was how I landed such a powerful and beautiful woman. Thank you for coming, I see you have dressed the part swimmingly."

Lady Jikan showed up dressed for the party as well, this was going to be the proper test and entire point of this little get-together, well that and to welcome Harrison to the guild with most members present. He hoped all would show but he knew how it was being a warrior.

Knuckles looked to Ittindi and smiled. "Excuse us, there is someone I would like to introduce Lady Lumikki to. " With that Knuckles took Lumi by the hand and gave her a reassuring nod of his head as he headed to Lady Jikan. "Glad you could make Lady Jikan, I hope you find everything to be enjoyable. Now, may I introduce you to my beloved, Lady Lumikki Guild Master of Paradise Dawn, Lumikki my love this is Lady Jikan, the woman who beat me years back to become the Guild Master of Sleeping Calamity. I hope we can iron out any past issues and set the future on a bright path for both Guilds."

Lastly, Tsukishima arrived, as they walked passed and gave their kind words Knukles broke from his current conversation and nodded. "Thank you for showing up, everything is almost cooked. Just about ten more minutes and everything will be ready to serve. In the meantime that long-haired fellow over there is Harrison, the man in the speedo is Ittindi. "

Not only did his words sooth her but they brought out a playful grin. If only he meant it, she thought, then that would be far more entertaining…

But Murder would be enthused as he recant his experience here in Seven. The others could see him brimming with pride and vigor. “Heh, could only hope so. Would be a waste otherwise. I did fly in for a show or two, but I only caught him for one. The arena changes amuse me, but his strategy to just run is entertains me more.” Gunvald cooed, he very much enjoyed the Daemon’s work.
”…Of course you’d praise that…Murder do us a favor, don’t turn out like him..” Trygve on the other hand was far from pleased. He usually was to anything that got Gunvald involved.
”Don’t mind them. Tell me more about the Gods in this land and our Lady’s Champion.” Lonu was more intrigue with what more Murder could add, it was hard for him to keep up with the matters in Seven.
”Small speech?” Lumikki muttered softly, she was unaware of the need to prepare one, but it finally occurred to her that it was probably his task toward the guild. She looked back over to this Harrison, gleaming his more delicate features. She thought of this guild as a fighting one, but he looked as though he’s never seen a fight. Though she lack in strength herself, she still garnered her own kind of might, ye the prospect of what more there was to him intrigued her. Perhaps she’d pick his ear later that night.

But just as swiftly, Ittindi would snatch her focus. His swimsuit for the occasion and refreshing energy was unique to him and irreplaceable company.”Run away from leadership? Isn’t he usually telling someone else what to do?” Lumikki teased before looking over to the party, a smile playing at her lips. With an outstretched arm she’d gesture to the decorations,”Offer me lil praise, I simply supplied the extra hands with the assistance of me Eight Pinions. The designs and planing were Knuckles alone, and really now, I think he did a lovely job.”

The face she saw next was one she saw only once before. It was some time ago in the North of Fiore, Lumikki didn’t even entertain if the woman remembered her or the lad she teased that day. The Demoness left Jikan to her glamor, nodding in agreement to her compliment.

Though something began to drain the merriment out of her, filling her with a nauseated feel instead. Lumikki clutched tightly onto Knuckles’ arm, trying to gleam whatever it possibly could be that was irritating her so much. And there he was, a man approaching but only in passing. Her World eyes itching to tell her what it was that vexed her so and she’d find it. It was his infernal magic…but she’d shake her head and let him pass. The man himself seemed of peace and she would not disturb. Only note that he was not a person she’d want to be left talking with.

Lumikk nuzzled into Knuckles trying to cleanse her foul mood and nibbling on the shadows cast upon him. When she caught her breath and her patience, with a planted smile she’d utter,Ye gather a lovely bunch me love. Ready to begin kicking off yer celebrations?”

Alas it seemed everyone for the most part had arrived, Harrison however seemed perfectly even if he did not have anything to really fit the summer weather. Harrison would eventually feel the heat but he would be okay. He at least seemed to know how to manage it all with out many problems.

Knux told him where to make sure he could get things to drink and eat if he needed too. In which he seemed delighted, But the fae did not seem to inject himself into talking anyone yet. Mostly seemingly trying to get a a bit feel by merely watching.


He only knew Knux but suppose after he merely thought up what he wanted and settle his thoughts to make it feel like it was less about the various studies of magic and how far it could go. But he did take off his glasses to clean them.

Across the beach Ittindi saw Lady Jikan make her entrance, his neck stiffened a little from where she had cracked it the first time they had been reacquainted. A funny story for another occasion he did pull a pistol out on her thinking her some phony, so he held no ill will towards her. He was more worried about the potential destruction that would be caused in the future by Sleeping Calamity with Paradise Dawn, Ittindi pondered he could outbid a guild alliance. He wondered how General Saturn had been handling the Rune Knights funds since he had taken over. His promotion to Colonel couldn’t come soon enough, he had been thinking about which branch he aspired to lead. His whole career he had remain detached from the majority of Rune Knights luckily the few he did interact with became higher ranked members than him.  The next member he saw was a surprise it was the man that had been interested in the Rune Knights but had changed his mind when Ittindi went to see him.  

”Of course have fun hosting Young Master.”

Ittindi would say as Lady Lumikki and the Young Master walked off towards Lady Jikan herself. Deciding he’d much rather talk to the unknown face than risk more possible embarrassment. He’d walk over to Harrison and greet him.

”Greetings, I’m Ittindi Amali, nice party right? I look forward to seeing what your guild has in store for seven.”

Ittindi’s tattoo of the Rune Knights ankh would be visible on his tongue when he talked at Harrison if he looked at Ittindi’s face when he spoke. Ittindi would run his hand through his hair, the sun hadn’t beaten down on him enough that he needed to take a dip yet. His hair was just starting to hold the heat, it was an odd feeling, Ittindi had found himself on beaches more often lately.

Lady Jikan seemed to be lost within her own world as was Tsukishima, no matter whether Knuckles kissed his beloved on her forehead sensing her distress. Within their minds, he sent her feelings of calm and happy-natured thoughts.  Knuckles would Join Mr. Harrison and Ittindi with Lumikki on his arm. "Frett not beloved, you're a Frozen star that burns with chilling might. The next person I am going to introduce you to will be Mr. Harrison, he is a man of theories and I can promise you will indeed find his research to be pleasing. "

Meanwhile, Murder would fill in the rest of his kind. "Our Lady's Champion has little interaction with the Pantheons of Seven thus far, though I have heard him planning to take on something called Titians there so that he may gain notice of the Gods there. It seems he has plans to push Our Goddess's name through the country as her Champion indeed. I can only hope that he does so in a way that is worthy of our Lady. Thus far, Knuckles has taken every challenge and prepares himself only in the arena there. "

Lumikki pressed into his side one last time before cooling her composer and icing over the excess worry. The feelings of calm and warmth from her beloved would grant her a guide to what she, too, should feel right now. What more, Ittindi providing her another familiar face and presence helped her block out the other two, who seemed off on their own. She would turn back to him and this Harrison with a small smile, aiming to not fret any longer.

"Is that so Knuckles?" Lumikki spoke with a sing-song ring to her voice once more, like a cat on the prowl. Her tone gave the same confidence. Like the other things she chose to excessively consume, she too had a hunger for knowledge. "Might I inquire of yer work then? Perhaps there are things I could fill ye in and vice versa? Depending of course, on what it is ya study." Lumikki extended her hand toward one of the many tables prepared. The parasol just above was rustling from the wind but otherwise held tight in place. They had time to kill until the food has finished, a task her Eight Pinions were overlooking with Alvis and Erica in the lead. Though Lumikki would guess that they wouldn't be with a plate for at least a half in hour longer.

Meanwhile, her birds with feathers ruffled, were eating up all of Murder's words regarding Knuckles' feats and presence within Seven thus far. Yuurei was a mystery, and Brone was often training his men, or manning the forge. Thus they did not get to see a warrior of this might still challenge fantastical things. "Titans?" Lonu inquired first, his head tilting in curiosity. "Are they like the Jotunn of Iceberg?" He was still learning his fair share of other cultures, and did not yet know the differences.

"Don't mind that," Gunvald budded in, his voice eager but somehow full of malice. "Noooow, are they bigger than giants?" He voice crawled at a whisper but not because he felt ashamed to be heard, no, because his excitement for the answer stripped him of the volume as he extended his head forward in total intrigue. This bird had an enamored fascination with carnage and bloodshed. Both of which made him favor Knuckles to most. Trygve stayed silent, however, as he dreaded the conversation, but could not leave upon the notion that Knuckles held himself as Lumikki's champion.

It seemed Harrison was not the attention of a few people, Not that be minded. Maybe this was this going to be helpful to him in the long run. But suppose he look upon Ittundi with interest. It seemed the mark in which was shown to him was not one he knew. But so much so he closed his note book. While Harrison was fine and would have no problem going on about what he was asked. Mostly any other normal person would see an insane man who is looking to learn and expand into things far more risky with magic then most people could consider sane."It is a wonderful party indeed."Harrison then stuck out his hand in offer to shake it."Hello good sir, I am Harrison Spellford, It is wonderful to meet you during this pleasant day of note taking."So far most of Harrison's notes where just small note book he had in one of his pockets.

As far for what the guild had in store for Seven, Harrison either did not pay attention or know yet."I am sure, after we settled there won't much to worry about, Hopefully there will be area in which I can practice my theories to figure out if they work."Harrison mentioned, but he really did not seemingly dive into detail yet.

Because there was more people here. Knux and Lumikki."Mr.Harrison? Suppose age has yet to hit me, Where that makes me feel old and fragile."Harrison did attempt some kind of humour. But Harrison knew he was not that old. Just in some manner in a task of many theories that would drive a person mad.

But Since Lumikki was asking a question he seemed more then interested.
The fae was now going to explain what he was trying to study and how he was going to take it."Well my notes are currently plain and not quite in depth to how I wish them to be, my entire goal is to work on, expand and publish various papers of the starting point of magic as well as it's expansion and eventually seeing how far it's limits can be surpassed."Harrison seemed some what tamed now, But most likely at this went on there was a risk in his internal thoughts of him sounding like a mad man who is just going into a mad study of things that aren't meant to be meddled with.

But he much like everyone."While my notes are missing a few answered questions:While we learned magic in it's most basic form of arcane....how did we teach magic to change elements? teaching beings is a simple method of repeating, But it as well needed to as well."This part whenever he seemed to ask or mentioned had most people looking at him like he was a bit of an odd one."Then..after that it will be fine to see how far that can be expanded upon."

The man seemed nice enough as he responded to Ittindi, an odd fit for such a rowdy guild. Perhaps he had a darker side to him, Ittindi knew what that was like. The theory of magic was an interesting endeavor indeed, one that Ittindi would be willing to discuss at length if not for his Young Master nearby. He still hadn’t worked up the nerve to fully explain his change in magic, it had been so long since he had broached the demon soul inside him. His reliance on his gun had made most think that he wasn’t even a mage. There were still some who expected strings to appear from him at any moment.

As Lady Lumikki and the Young Master joined them from their rounds through the party Ittindi would smile at both as Sir Spellford continued talking. When he spoke about the elements of magic and how they might appear or diverge from arcane. Ittindi couldn’t help but pipe up in the conversation.

”Personally Sir Spellford, I think that the elements have a symbiotic relationship with the user and most hover towards their natural affinities. Though I have heard of mages who have major magic changes in their life and how it can even effect their personality. It is an interesting subject indeed.”

Ittindi remembered when he use to care more for his magic, now with it being a part of him it felt too natural. He worried that it might be a sign of Naki slowing taking more control. Lady Lumikki was a professor so it wasn’t surprising she was interested in the theory of magic as well. The real question was why did his Young Master recruit someone like this? Did he have plans for some kind of magical weapon or was it just curiosity.

Looking over at the Young Master Ittindi would study him for a second to see how he felt about Sir Spellford. His appreciation seemed to be genuine, Ittindi would have to periodically check on the studious scholar of sleeping calamity to ensure the reason wasn’t to nefarious.

Knuckles wrapped his arm around Lumikki as she pressed against him one last time, her warmth grounding him as much as it did her. He gave a slight, assuring nod to acknowledge that she had recomposed herself, and a small smile curled on his lips the fire in her tone having struck him. She was curious, and her curiosity was as keen as her blade.

"Of course, Lumikki," Knuckles said, his voice firm yet warm, "I dive deeper into the arena's foundation and Seven's growing potential for our guild. There is something. ancient about this land, something stirring beneath the surface." He nodded toward the table she gestured to, and as they sat down, the parasol above them rustling softly in the breeze, he continued, "I've been making connections, trying to make sense of what history this place was built upon. Titans, old beings they aren't mere legend here; they might yet walk these lands."

His eyes wandered to the growing crowd of people, who were listening to the birds as they talked about his exploits. Looking toward the group, when Lonu's question caught his attention, he chuckled softly. "Titans, Jotunn they are a little different. Beings of great strength and size, forces of nature in and of themselves. The Titans I have heard tell of here were said to be relics from before the gods shaped this world, remnants of an older age." He leaned forward slightly, eyeing Gunvald, "And yes, bigger than giants. Their very presence shakes the earth, and believe you me, Gunvald, there's plenty of carnage when they show themselves."

He could feel the eyes of Ittindi on him, but Knuckles was at ease knowing his stalwart butler was always sizing up anyone in their company. The weirdo that was Sleeping Calamity, Sir Spellford, had become a man he respected in his peculiar ways. Harrison's zeal for magical arts was weird, yet this ran so much deeper than anything Knuckles had ever considered cool.

"Magic, huh?" Knuckles said conversationally, having caught Harrison's last remark about the elements. "There is more to it than just the arcane. Ittindi's right it is like a dance between the mage and the elements they wield. But it also takes something personal, doesn't it? A shift in your core, a bond formed through trials. I've seen magic change people, not just their power, but who they are inside."

Knuckles leaned back, casting a look at Lumikki as his voice lowered somewhat. "Sometimes, we don't choose the power we get sometimes it chooses us." His mind briefly flickered to the Shattered Mjolnir, the weapon that had come to him from the depths of a Void Dungeon. Power like that always came with a price.

The food was still on its way, but Knuckles could feel the air thicken with anticipation, not for the meal itself, but for what more it held in terms of deep conversations among themselves. Turning to Lumikki with a sly smirk, he added, "But enough about me what have you been studying, Lady Lumikki? Perhaps there's something I could learn from you too."

He let the words hang in the air, enjoying the air of the party, but knowing there was always more underneath their feet and the people around them. The trials ahead were never off his mind, especially at Iceberg.

”Aye, I could believe it,” she’d respond so matter-of-factly that one could assume she thought it obvious. But to her, you see, it was. The Nordic Gods were still alive and well in her realm, shaping the life of mortals to this day. Even if they reveal themselves so sparingly, they were still major participates to Iceberg’s way of life. Seven, as far as she saw it, would hardly prove to be any different. Their customs and culture varied, but the basis remained the same. ”Same could be said for me motherland, the ancient magic and divine influence never wandered.”

The group entertained her in taking a seat, from which her birds were perched nearby. All of which looked at Knuckles in confusion and embarrassment, as it was normally not the case that they were understood by another. ”I see…dear lad….Thanks for the clarification,” Lonu being the first to mend his composure by pushing the conversation. Gunvald. On the other hand broke into a hardly laugh that sounding like croaking in rapid succession. ”Hardly sounds any different to me, I’m sorry. Old magic in giant forms can be given any name and still be the point at the core.” Trygve of the three would stay silent, instead opting to glide to Lumikki and nuzzle into her. He was down socializing for the moment.

”Guess that be the case, granted me darkness at first came from Obscura. But really, there are different refinements of elements to consider as well. They do now all steam from the same place, concept, or core. Take me for example, I could pulled from the Abyss and I did for a time, but ultimately through personal studies, I’ve learned to pull from the Primordial Mother, Nótt instead. It would be she and her sister Aurilandür to which I attune me power. The mothers of all things, least back where I’m from.” Lumikki held out the black stranded hand that wasn’t holding onto Trygve and pulling him in. Turning it around for the table to see. ”Granted I choose to make it me form as I’ve come to love it, but this wasn’t me choice at first. Started with the tips of me fingers and the more I used it the more it stained me. The Obscura I mean. That’s its nature should ye tap too deeply into it. It stopped when I shifted me focus, so I suppose I could agree that magic changes ye in many senses. Of course me cause is to chaotic to tell sadly.”

Knuckles leaned back but she could feel his soft gaze and with words so endearing, it gave her some comfort. ”Aye, it choose me. Tis true as the sky above us. But lucky for me, I held as much of a bite as it did for me. I can’t imagine being any different anymore…wouldn’t want to be either. I like as I am and never been more happy or at peace.” Lumikki’s gaze shifted to Ittindi. She was not callous, though she was curious. ”Ye encounter more mages like me, that is? Changed from their magic? Maybe I wouldn’t mind hearing ‘em all out in time. I wonder if they were all better for it or utterly miserable.” Her last words would fight the chuckled the spill out her lips. Her jest wasn’t for him but a genuine wonder.

But the next question would wind her and with a big sigh, the Demoness would answer. ”No where I particularly enjoy sadly. Usually I like to read through old stories or learn me way through other cultures. Of course, I like to dabble in the older magic as well. But as of late I’ve simply been reading over notes I’ve collected from some wretched island and studying the existence of a realm called the Void. Bloody mess it is, and I don’t take any kindly to it, but I won’t suffer ignorance either.” Lumikki with a worried look on her face, leaned back as well. Trying to look up to the sky as if it could offer her any comfort. ”The infernal things been spreading. Wouldn’t be surprised if it found its well here as well….”

It seemed what people had mentioned it him was something he did consider note worthy, Something he had not expected or considered. It almost seemed like he might had been loaded from information for a moment, As his face went completely blank for a moment. But if anything when it slowly turned into a smile of extremely delight. The enlightenment of something different, something new and a means to consider adding into his many fields of notation.


The revelation of things he did not account for seemed to almost allow Harrison to have to take many more notes, Many more things to learn. Many more things he now needed to learn and consider. How he seemingly was quickly flipping to a new page, Starting to write oddly quicker them most people had ever seen him write before.

"Interesting...interesting."Yes it truly was interesting to him. The idea of the magic chose you was not one he had considered, for he so far just assumed everyone in some manner could select and learned elements on their own."And here I was going off of the idea, People mainly could choose to learn any magic element type...Maybe I did not consider that a factor as much as I should have."Harrison was writing fairly quickly at this point, All these things.

It seemed as he continued to think on it he had to turn to another page for even more notes."Well this will be a few days worth of other notes i need to branch into later."Harrison would keep that simple but here he was taking more notes of possible things to consider and practice later."I will have to figure out, how deep that goes and see if their a mean to break that considered chosen magic element to break side divide to see what it can turn into."He now seemed a lot more excited about what all he could consider doing.

Then he stopped for a moment and looked around for a moment at everyone here, stopped his writing and merely went."Ahh....I'll finish these notes shortly."Harrison seemed to realize he was just being a bit odd one again but he continue to write neatly and quickly. But he turned to a third page and by the time he was done writing that third page was completely filled too."Okay that's enough for now."

As the Young Master elucidated on the differences in the region’s creatures and gods to Lady Lumikki’s flock, they also delved into the discussion of magic. They’d all contemplate the point of magic choosing others indeed they all seemed to be the playthings of the gods. Even Lady Lumikki agreed on that point, so even Demons were still pieces on the board. What Ittindi would do to wipe the whole thing clean, that way there’d be a real start. However, if reality was perfect what would it need butlers for?

Ittindi could never tell when Lady Lumikki was teasing him or genuinely asking a question. As she mentioned magic changing others, he of course wasn’t thinking of anyone besides himself. While he had told the Young Master about his demon soul he still hadn’t relayed that he was using it actively in his magic. Or that he had abandoned nature as his element almost a year ago. He’d look down at Lady Lumikki, for such a powerful creature it felt odd to look down. There was a time Ittindi considered crouching to get on her level, but he wouldn’t want to insult his teacher.

”Yes, between Amaforth, Rune Knights and just adventuring I have ran into many different kind of mages. I think its like having a kid, it just amplifies the good and bad doesn’t necessarily change the mage there. Then again I speak as if I’m some kind of authority.”

Ittindi would chuckle thinking himself an authority on anything non cleaning related. Watching Sir Spellford start to scribe notes frantically, reminded himself of a young Ittindi. He wondered if the Young Master would still be upset about not enjoying the “now” like he did for Ittindi. Just this once, he’d be nice and help another notetaker out. Talking at Sir Spellford Ittindi would also start

”Don’t get caught taking notes to often Sir Spellford, your guildmaster is a big fan of this mythical creature. A beast so powerful that it never stops moving…the now. He wants you to be in it not taking notes of it.”

He wondered how exactly Lady Lumikki could worship a pantheon as a demon, but religion wasn’t something he was so vane to pretend to understand especially through the perspective of another race. It was hard enough understanding his human connection to Illumin, not to mention the encroaching darkness she also brought up. The void, an ever-increasing threat on the Rune Knights agenda. So far information on it had been sparse, and Ittindi still failed to understand the difference between the Void and the Abyss as they were supposedly two distinct realms.

The soft smile in her face slowly went away,  shifting off back to the casual look that normally portrayed Jikan’s face. A calm almost emotionless serene look that have no motion of happiness or rage. She was here to be semi formal and relax, not bubbly.


Lady Jikan showed up dressed for the party as well, this was going to be the proper test and entire point of this little get-together, well that and to welcome Harrison to the guild with most members present. He hoped all would show but he knew how it was being a warrior. Such an act seemed to be the call as Sir Knux greeted her, with a young woman by her arm. Jikan turned to face them, giving a soft nod of acknowledgement.

With a slight expression that Lumikki may have seen as coldness, but for Knux with his experience with, a calm calculation gaze in thought taking information in. So the roofers were true. Current guild master of Paradise Dawn, and dating Knuxckles. May how events evolved and folded over time. There were a number of thoughts and feelings about this and about Knuckles. But on that matter...

She would only look, giving a soft nod of her head as she closed her eyes. Seemingly giving acceptance of it all. After all, if they were less of an obstacle for her all the better. If what said was true.

In the mean time she simply relaxed and listened in to the plentitude of conversations transpiraling. Interesting and good topics indeed.  Harrison wishing to research and understand the complexity of magic for example. The topic seemed to enlight their growing group for conversation. "Most magic is magic..", Jikan began feeling a bit inclined to answer Ittindi's ponder. "The person impacts their magic. Unless it is a true type of ancient or influential magic of the mind that is the case. Or at least how it has been for me. Things have come with some advantages, as well as pain. But usually the good has outweighed the bad".

She said nothing more than that. It was her opinion but one she felt was simple. She gave a slow nod of her head feeling solidarity in Knux’s words. Sometimes we don't choose the power, it chooses us. A blessing as well as a curse as she gave a soft quick look to her ring.

Wc: 403
Twc: 705

Knuckles leaned forward slightly, the corners of his lips curving in a satisfied, subtle grin as he listened to each contribution. Lumikki’s reflections on magic, Harrison’s fervent note-taking, and Ittindi’s observations fit into a tapestry of insight and exploration that intrigued him. When Jikan finally added her perspective, it was a calm, measured truth, and Knuckles gave her a small nod in return, his respect for her subtle wisdom evident in his gaze.

“That’s the truth of it. Magic reflects the person, not just a tool or a thing you wield.” He looked over the group, taking in their expressions—some thoughtful, others quietly amused.

“Sometimes it chooses you. And sometimes it sinks its claws in so deep, you couldn’t shake it loose even if you tried.” His gaze lingered on Lumikki for a moment, soft but deliberate, as if acknowledging her path—the way the Obscura had stained her, how she had turned it into something she embraced. There was admiration in his eyes, a recognition of the struggle and the choice she made to own it rather than let it define her against her will.

Knuckles then chuckled low, shifting his gaze to Harrison.

“Careful with those notes, lad. Now, it’s slippery. You spend too much time writing about it, you’ll miss it entirely.” His voice was light, carrying that usual teasing warmth he wielded to pull others out of their thoughts.

He leaned back into his seat with an ease that came naturally to him, glancing briefly at Jikan’s subtle look toward her ring.

“Pain and power, they walk the same path more often than not.” He tapped a finger lightly on the table.

“But I figure, if the good outweighs the bad—even just by a sliver—then that’s enough to keep moving forward. Whatever magic’s in your blood, or wrapped around your soul, it’s only as heavy as you let it be.”

He paused, glancing up toward the sky as if gathering his thoughts for a moment, then added with a wry grin,

“And if the gods are watching us like we’re pieces on a board, well... might as well make the game interesting, eh?”

With that, he turned his attention back to the group, comfortable in the flow of the evening. The sun dipped lower on the horizon, and the sound of the sea provided a rhythm to their gathering—a peaceful moment in the middle of everything. For now, at least, the now belonged to them.

”Ever so insightful me beloved,” Lumikki cooed with a voice that was both tender and teasing. Her head had tilted his direction and with a soft jerk forward to pair with her melodious reply, the Demoness soon propped her arm and head on the table after. Her gaze still on him and how he so casually conducted himself. It was a pleasing sight, so rare was it to see him with others of note. More so with the role of leader cloaked upon him like a hanging air that shifted the mood. Yet hardly was he different to the man she met, or fell for. This would melt further into her thoughts and sentiment as his glance lingered upon her with love on his eyes and their shared link noted their shared adoration.

With her gaze on Knuckles, it wouldn’t be until his shift in attention and Ittindi’s sudden words, that she remembered of Harrison. That man who inspired the thought provoking talk. ”—He’s right ye know,” Lumikki chimed along with the Daemon. Her voice was saturated with theatrical tones. ”Me Nan drilled into me the notion of spoken word and living memory. Says when ye write all things down, that’s when ye lose it. After all, it’s no longer in mind but on the page. Her worry was the death of all knowledge and stories—ye know, when people get so comfortable with books and scrolls that they can’t remember a thing without ‘em. I mean, I get the woman’s sentiments. I feel them even now to this day, but I do find an enticing charm of picking up books and consuming stories without the company of another. Still, ye’d learn to lose a lot this way.”

Knuckles responded to Jikan with reverence he rarely showed, and Lumikki kept to herself as she glance on Harrison’s pages. ”Perhaps that could lead us to our next talking point.” Knuckles fell back with assured words, speaking of gifting the Gods a show. ”What stories have ye to entertain the Gods? Oooor Demons if ye will~ I always have time to enjoy a good tale. None on this table could possibly prove boring, even Ittindi surprised me with his admittance to being a criminal once before—But ye know dear, this being the first time us three were ever together. I would love to hear from ye both now! The long crossed threads of yer exploits and adventures, but what more, the more embarrassing stuff if ye could be so kind!”

Harrison, ever so thoughtful, wrapped up the last of his notes and close his book. He would comply for the moment since he suffered all the teasing, but one could see that he wasn’t storing the journal just yet, either. The chance of losing another interesting point for his research was far too agonizing for simply bullying to quell. But with a silent nod, even he could admit that for the moment, it would do him well to settle back into the conversation. Though now he gets to take a slight seat back to the new shift in topic. Giving him a moment to mull over his thoughts on the last.

Ittindi would listen to Jikan, he knew that his magic did indeed fit in with that ancient magic, something that might not even exist in their realm. A gift from the void itself, though Ittindi had been hoping for a suit or a gun. Something that Naki would often tease him about, that a spear was the ancient gun, so in a way that he had received exactly what he asked for. It had also given him the gift of eternal youth, though again with caveats. That’s all the void seemed to offer others, a distorted version of their wish. Though the Young Master seemed to think similarly as he spoke of the claws of magic holding you down. It didn’t click until Lady Lumikki comment that he realized he wasn’t the subject of conversation. They were all talking about their own lives, how similar they were all. Well besides one glaring fact, that would show every time Ittindi spoke.

He was all to aware of the constant judgement for him joining the Rune Knights, never from Lady Lumikki and the Young Master. He wasn’t to sure about the others, he had never learned much from Lady Jikan from the few times they encountered each other. He’d listen to a nostalgic tale from Lady Lumikki, it seemed odd to think of a demon with a family. It showed his ignorance in Lady Lumikki’s past as well as his knowledge of Demons in general. How could he expect to execute or convert things he didn’t understand? It’d be like trying to take out an acid stain without a base cleaning solvent. Ittindi didn’t put much faith in Lady Lumikki’s grandmother’s words, though he wouldn’t voice such an opinion out loud. Especially considering the heavy notes he took in his childhood when learning how to properly do chores in a noble household.  It seemed Harrison had taken their advice and would close his book while Ittindi tried to think of an embarrassing story of the Young Master.

” Hmm, an embarrassing story of the Young Master?  I remember there was one time, we couldn’t of been older than 10,  we stole a sword from one of the guards of the manor.  He had needed one since his father was so against his training. You know him practicing all through the day into the night, when he was discovered the guard thought to teach him a lesson. Problem was, the Young Master was looking forward to him being disciplined thinking it’d be great training. The Young Master squared up against the guard, and instead of giving him a fight the man walked away. What we didn’t know is that night he had the kitchen spike his drink with laxative. Then the guard challenged him to a duel right when the laxatives were kicking in…you can imagine what happened next but I’ll let the Young Master finish it.”

Ittindi thought the whole affair was ridiculous, but the servants talked about it for weeks afterwards. The guard of course had been fired as soon as the Lord of the house heard about the incident, then he punished the Young Master, giving him the usual speech about how nobles weren’t meant for more than brutish fighting.

Jikan listened with a calm intent to the exchange between them all, her gaze steady and thoughtful as she found this conversation becoming more and more interesting for various reasons. Knuckles' words resonated deeply within her and she appreciated his ability to weave insight and humor effortlessly. Another example of the charismatic skills he liked to hide. The respect in his gaze when he nodded at her didn’t go unnoticed, and she offered a small smile in return, acknowledging the shared understanding between them. She couldn’t help but chuckle softly at Knuckles’ playful reprimand to Harrison about taking too many notes. There was a truth to it sometimes, living the moment was far more enlightening than recording it. You learned more from hands-on experience and life than what a book could say at times. As Knuckles spoke about the intertwining paths of pain and power, Jikan’s thoughts drifted to her own experiences. Lumikki’s theatrical commentary and reminiscence of her grandmother’s wisdom added a layer of warmth and reflection to the conversation. Jikan found herself nodding in agreement, appreciating the blend of oral tradition and the written word.

When Knuckles prompted them for stories, Jikan’s mind raced through her many adventures and the embarrassing moments that often accompanied them. The memory of an ill-fated mission where she ended up covered in mud and mistaken for a wild beast by the local villagers came to mind. It was a humbling experience, to say the least. One of many horror stories when she was much younger and inexperienced, not even a mage out on an adventure. She was about to share when Ittindi spoke up with his tale about the Young Master. The story was both amusing and revealing, a reminder that even the most composed individuals had their moments of folly. A choked down scoff giggle was bit down by her tongue, that sure sounded like a different type of trouble she expected from him.

“I think that's a little bit of cheating Ittindi. Using Knuckles’ story”, she said in a light tease. "But embarrassing moments, huh?” Jikan mused, leaning back in her seat that she walked over to and sat down in now. “Well, there was this one time on a mission...” ,a  soft  rare smile playing on her lips as she prepared to recount her tale. “now, let me take you back to a time when I was a bit less... composed,” she started, a hint of amusement in her voice. “I was on a mission to scout a dense, swampy area that was rumored to be a hideout for a group of rogue mages. It was late, and I was exhausted from days of travel.” She paused, glancing around at her companions, making sure she had their full attention. “The thing about swamps is, they’re tricky. One moment, you’re walking on solid ground, and the next, you’re knee-deep in mud. Common sense i wish I kept in mind back then. I was trying to be stealthy, moving through the underbrush quietly, when I took a wrong step.”

Jikan’s eyes twinkled with the memory, and she continued, “Before I knew it, I was sinking into a mud pit. And not just any mud pit, this one was particularly sticky and foul-smelling. Some sort of monster ‘nest’. I struggled to get free, but the more I moved, the deeper I sank.” She mimicked the motions with her hands. “It didn’t take long for the rogue mages to hear the commotion. They came running, thinking they had an intruder. What they found was a mud-covered mess trying to claw her way out.”   Jikan let a soft laugh escaped. “To make matters worse, the villagers heard the noise too. They came out with pitchforks and torches, thinking some wild beast had invaded the swamp again. You can imagine their surprise when they realized it was just me, covered head to toe in mud and looking like something out of a horror story.” Jikan shook her head, a wry grin on her face. “It took hours to get cleaned up, and I had to endure the villagers’ jokes for weeks. But hey, at least we managed to flush out the rogue mages and secure the area.”

Wc: 702
Twc: 1407