Zauberheim - Kingdom of Magic RP

[Phantom77]

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Courtroom
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All eyes had fallen on Sir Cody, after his attempt to rip Falia's jacket. His effort lead the court to a realization - one that would discredit Fallia's claims, and at this the Queen makes a stern expression.

"Sir Cody, it seems that making even a tear as small as that one was not such an easy task for you." Said the Queen in a serious tone. "If you, a grown man, has such trouble, I imagine a young mage not known for his physical strength couldn't do much more if even that."

Queen Brunhilde continued on. "Based on the Wanderer's testimony, it would seem that a large part of Falia's story doesn't fit. You claim that Peter attacked you, and after you fended him off you somehow incapacitated him in the process. But evidence is geared toward the fact that Peter more than likely couldn't have done that, and he claims that he was drugged before he would even have a chance to do something of the sort."

"Miss Fallia, the Judicial Charter states that a person is sworn by oath to tell and abide by the truth. Now I ask you, daughter of Count Sivana, is you story an honest retelling of yesterday's events or not?"


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Citadel
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"If Sivana is responsible, I wonder what would make him do something like this? And Peter of all people?" Said Luke, still worried for his classmate's fate.

"Since his daughter is the one who claims she was sexually assaulted, it only makes since that the father who just go along with it. I know that if I were in her position, my father would do the same." Felicie entered herself into the conversation after dealing with Anri and Brandon. "Perhaps she has a twisted sense of humor and thought it'd be funny to go after an easy target."

"That's not a respectful thing to say in Peter's case." Lisia scolded the young vampire, still somewhat annoyed by her antics.

"I'm sure Peter will be fine. With the Wanderer and your mother there I'd say his chances of walking out a free man are pretty good." Anri tried to reassure her friends and lighten the mood. It seemed to have worked. By now they all probably realized that no good would've come out continuing talk of the court.

"Well...at any rate, what else can you tell us about Sir Henry and the merc Ruecian, Sir Tibrus? Any particular techniques or abilities we should watch out for?" Luke said, thinking to chance the subject.

"Luke, he wouldn't tell us that. Part of the challenge of bringing outside competitors is to help us prepare for unexpected situations and opponents." Anri stated to Luk's inquiry.

Luke nervously looked to the side at his friend's words. "I...just thought I'd ask..."

[hothead1021]

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Citadel
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Hearing how the others talked about the trial, Ivadi listened. however when Felicie spoke up about it, he decided to give his two cents about it "Milady....let it be known that if you ever did try to do something so underhanded as that to an innocent, I WILL do everything in my power to knock some sense into you." he said sternly as he will have little patience for things like that

[KillMoves]

"Ah, here we are! I've been meaning to get here but been too busy looking for you! Let's go talk to the owner. Hopefully, he'll be cooperative."

Quirille quietly followed, her hands behind her back despite having a spell that reduced attention upon her.

Inside the Bannered Centaur, the scene was like in any other tavern slash inn. Patrons sat here and there, talking and chatting, eating and drinking, typical tavern behavior. Some of the talk was about the alleged rapist but the rest were about other things as if last night was not anything to fret about. Though if one thought about it, what would be the point of talking about an issue they could do nothing about but leave to the authorities?

"Hey bartender, hit me!"
"Who do you think's going to win the case?"
"I'm rooting for the wee lad but... Here you go... but I fear it ain't as simple as that."

"Heard about the Supremacy? Supposed to enhance the body a hundred fold. And magic too if you 'ave."
"I'm sure it's one of those tales Daniel always spins."
"Ha! That Daniel! He does know how to tell a story!"

"Know anything about the Witch Hunter?"
"He ain't real. No one can spirit a Witch from a Sabbath THAT many times."
"Then where did he get all those Witches? Kidnap a... Never mind."

--MEANWHILE--

"Miss Fallia, the Judicial Charter states that a person is sworn by oath to tell and abide by the truth. Now I ask you, daughter of Count Sivana, is you story an honest retelling of yesterday's events or not?"

All eyes were on Fallia now. Her father, Rielle, The Queen, Peter, Thomas and everyone else all waited for the girl to either continue the case or hit the last nail on the coffin. The girl was frozen. She did not know what to do. She could not break away from the Queen's stern gaze. Her breathing became heavy. "YES! Yes my story is true!" She blurted out, her decision made. "I don't know how he did but he did manage some tears! Magic maybe? I don't know! But he DID try to assault me and I only barely escaped!"

Peter was dismayed that Fallia was going to continue the fight. He wondered if-- "You hesitated! Froze even!" Thomas stood up. "If your story was honest, the words would have rolled out of your mouth!"

"How dare you talk to her like that!" Count Sivana rose as well. "I will have your head for this!"

"You can have it after this is over." Thomas retorted before turning to the Queen. "Your Highness, I'm sure you've seen. You must know her accounts are lies!"

[EndZoner]

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Bannered Centaur
-----------------------

Walking over to the counter with the bartender on the other side, WordPlay pulled out a slip of paper with the word Official written on it. He flashed the paper to the bartender and began his charade. "Hello, I'm Benjamin Dover. I work as an investigator for the guards of Zauberheim. I would like to ask you a few questions concerning to an incident yesterday. You wouldn't by chance been present when the incident started l, were you?", he asked the bartender.

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Luminous Citadel
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"Luke, he wouldn't tell us that. Part of the challenge of bringing outside competitors is to help us prepare for unexpected situations and opponents." Anri stated to Luk's inquiry.

"I said the same thing to one of them and they said information would be helpful. Ironic, but I don't care, I suppose. In hindsight, there's a bunch of ways of getting information, like asking Tibrus, but I'm sure he wants us to figure out on our own.", Brandon pitched in when Luke tactically changed the subject.

[KillMoves]

"Hello, I'm Benjamin Dover. I work as an investigator for the guards of Zauberheim. I would like to ask you a few questions concerning to an incident yesterday. You wouldn't by chance been present when the incident started l, were you?"

"Oh, that I am." The bartender responded while the two other men proceeded to leave the conversation. "However, I may be of limited assistance considering I was quite busy when it happened. All I glimpsed was the guards already escorting the student out of the inn."

"If I did know more though, I would have happily given my testimony to the court by now."

--MEANWHILE--

Just outside The Bannered Centaur, Zev'jul noticed a most peculiar duo in the form of a hooded person and an Alraune walking in two legs. "I find that a little... suspicious."
"Say what now Zev?" Keith inquired.
"Did you not see the hooded man and the plant monster enter the tavern?"
"Zev, please. If there was a plant monster walking around, I would have noticed!"

The sorcerer placed his face upon his palm. "Never mind. Go check the status of the case. I shall remain here and see if I... find anything."
"Gotcha!" Keith held his thumb out at Zev'jul. "Keith away!". The mercenary ran off, his arms spread and pretending like an airborne vehicle.

[EndZoner]

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Bannered Centaur
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"Is that right?", he asked skeptically as he prepares to ramble on how he's skeptical of the bartender. However, he got distracted by a strange individual that apparently pretended to be an airborne vehicle before leaving the tavern. To say that's strange is hypocritical of him due to his own nature. He turns his attention back to the bartender and mentally cursed himself since he lost his momentum of skepticism.

"Anyway, I suppose I'll talk to any of your staff that was present when the two arrived before the incident occurred. However, I would like to ask you a few questions concerning to the Count's daughter. When the guards hauled that Peter fellow away, what state was she in? Panic? Stressed? Traumatized? Was her clothing ripped and if so, where exactly?", he asked the bartender.

[Phantom77]

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Courtroom
-----------------

Displeased at yet another outburst by the Count and Sir Thomas, the Queen was at her limit.

"That's quite enough!!" Snapped the Queen. "I believe I warned you of further outbursts, but it seems my words fell on deaf ears. Sir Thomas and Count Sivana, for contempt of court, I will have you both detained. And until we can get this matter sorted out, I'm afraid Fallia and Peter will be placed in custody of the guards."

The elf official rose in response to the Queen's decision. "Your Majesty, are you certain of this? While I understand your decision, isn't it rather...abrupt?"

"I'm afraid that time is short. Her Grace has other duties that must be attended to. This is why the session shall be continued at a later time, one where a proper deduction of evidence can be made." Answered Arteus, as he stepped forward.

The Queen then looks at the Wanderer, her expression now a calmer one. "I thank you for your testimony in trying to prove young Culiar's innocence. But, right now I'm afraid we will have to postpone judgement. I suggest you get ready, as you have another duty that I'm sure you're aware of."

With a couple of taps with her scepter, the Queen summons a few guards into the room. A couple make their way to where Sir Thomas and Count Sivana sat.

"Forgive me, Milord, but I fear the Queen has spoken. You will have to come with us for the time being." Said one guard to the Count.

"Miss Fallia, lad, follow me" Said another guard, as he motioned for the two children to follow.

[Creator_Drake]

--- Courtroom ---

The figure gave the Queen a formal bow.

"Of course your Grace, even though thanks are not necessary you are most welcome. I did say that I would bring proper justice to be served in this court." As the guards enter the room he turned to young Peter, resting a hand on one shoulder.

"Like I said before everything will prove for the better. Just bare with a little longer, you will be free before the week is done." With a pat on the shoulder and a nod the Wanderer turned to the guard that bade the children forward before suddenly perking. He snapped his fingers as if just remembering something.

"Ah yes, I almost forgot." Turning to the queen he gave another bow.

"Your Grace, as this current session has been paused for lack of better term would it not be prudent for Miss Rielle to release the barrier upon the courtroom? I wish to heal young Culiar of his unjust injuries before he be taken into custody once more." He stood respectfully awaiting her verdict.


--- Citadel ---

"While your question lad is a good one, I'm afraid I cannot tell you what I know else I would be showing favoritism. If you're able to find out about their techniques outside of the official's and the people themselves in the tournament then that is fine, otherwise those of you that will face them will be doing so blind, so to speak." Giving his chin an errant scratch.

"The lass is also correct in why we've brought in outside competitors, though there is one thing I can tell you lot about the two." He paused for a moment to catch his thoughts before continuing. "Both men have a code of honour as warriors, both know this is simply a tournament and not fights to the death or other such nonsense. They are here to test you, in a sense help you show of your full skills, or only part if you so wish. They will treat you seriously even if they don't look it at first." Hearing a rather loud boom followed by a slight shake of the floor brought the architect's attention back to the hall where the group could hear muffled yells and what sounded like the clanking of pots and pans.

Sighing through his nose Tibrus shook his head before looking back at the Princess and her group of friends.

"Unfortunately I'll have to cut our time short for now. You'd best take this time to either prepare or relax as you wait for the tournament to begin." He turned to the Princess. "Testing should be finished soon as well as clean up. Let Her Grace and His Majesty know everything will be prepared in short order." With a nod to the group Tibrus turned back to the hall, soon disappearing around a corner where the students soon hear the muffled sounds of Tibrus as he, possibly, scolded the workers for something or other.

The thought would prove amusing to any who thought it.

[KillMoves]

"Anyway, I suppose I'll talk to any of your staff that was present when the two arrived before the incident occurred. However, I would like to ask you a few questions concerning to the Count's daughter. When the guards hauled that Peter fellow away, what state was she in? Panic? Stressed? Traumatized? Was her clothing ripped and if so, where exactly?"

"All three, my friend. But anyone can be an actor." The bartender said. "As for her clothes, I didn't see anything ripped but I only managed to see one side so my vision shouldn't be relied upon."

While looking at the stairs leading to the upper floor, Quirille asked. "Is the room where the incident happened already cleaned up?"

"Why yes, of course." The bartender replied.

"Was there any signs of struggle?" The Alraune continued.

"According to Erik who cleaned the room, yes. He said he had quite night tidying up the place."

--MEANWHILE--

The Queen had quite enough of the outbursts Peter's case was giving out and decided to postpone the trial. Though not before detaining Sir Thomas and Count Sivana. Both of them were surprised at the Queen's decision but reluctantly accepted their fates, staying quiet and letting the guards take them away with no resistance. However, while Thomas thought nothing of the detainment, Count Sivana felt he knew whose side the Queen and likely all of royalty was on.

Peter sighed as he and Fallia were to be under the guards' custody. His body still ached but he thought the custody of the guards would be more pleasant than the prison's. He then felt a hand rest on his shoulder. It was the Cloaked Wanderer's.

"Like I said before everything will prove for the better. Just bare with a little longer, you will be free before the week is done."

The boy smiled. There was still doubt but knowing that the Legendary Wanderer was on his side.

The happiest in the court was likely Rielle. The Queen's decision was sure to breed uncertainty and that was everyone's greatest fear, making them act rashly due to that. She hung her head to hide her joy and once she had composed herself, she put on a neutral look and let out a sigh before making her way out of the court.

"Your Grace, as this current session has been paused for lack of better term would it not be prudent for Miss Rielle to release the barrier upon the courtroom? I wish to heal young Culiar of his unjust injuries before he be taken into custody once more."

"That'll take a lot of time, Cloaky. It'd be faster to just take him outside to heal him." Rielle said before the Queen could answer. "The spell's going to lift in a couple of hours. Hope everyone's okay with that." Her words were only half-true. She knew how to lift the spell prematurely but it would still take time.

[EndZoner]

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Bannered Centaur
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"According to Erik who cleaned the room, yes. He said he had quite night tidying up the place."

"I see, may we investigate the room that the incident took place? We must be thorough as much as possible to ensure that there is no doubt in justice!", WordPlay stated as he asked the bartender for permission to investigate the room that Peter was arrested in. "If you be so kind as to give us permission to investigate the room, I would very much appreciate it.", he added.

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Luminous Citadel
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After hearing Tibrus' words, Brandon decided to sit in a nearby chair to wait out for the tournament to start. "Whelp, looks like we got time to kill. Any of you guys know how to waste time?", as he already pulled out his Armory Recall and began fiddling with it. With his thoughts no longer being distracted by the great Tibrus, he now has time to comprehend his current situation. He's currently waiting for an even to occur that may shape his future depending on how it turns out. He's anxious and he finds comfort in toying with something that he has been comfortable with for a long time. However, little does he know, his powers were activated subconsciously due to his anxiety which is altering the properties of the device. Though, to observers, they would assumed that he was simply altering his items in preparation for the tournament and wouldn't question it.

[Phantom77]

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Courtroom
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"I see very well then. I thank you for you participation in the session, Ms. Rielle, and please see to it that you also arrive at the citadel on time." Said the Queen, having heard Rielle's statement about her barrier. "Wanderer, you may heal Peter once outside of the courtroom. After that, please be sure to register for the event."

At that, Queen Brunhilde, escorted by Sir Arteus, makes her way out of the courtroom. While walking down the hall to the entrance, the Queen poses a question to her vassal. "Tell me, Arteus, what do you personally make of this case?"

"It's quite obvious that Miss Fallia is hiding something, and the evidence presented thus far seems to suggest this. Thanks to the Wanderer, things seem to be going Peter Culiar's way."

Arteus continued to collect his thoughts while speaking. "Personally, I feel that Peter's case escalated to quickly. While rape is a serious crime, it seems his sentenced was pushed due to the Count's standing rather than sufficient evidence."

"I see. I completely agree. Perhaps the Count and his daughter can give us more information while they're question in detainment. It pains me to have done that, but things were getting out of hand."

When outside, the Queen heavily sighs before making another inquiry. "By the way, I don't suppose you've seen that silly husband of mine, have you?"

"He is tending to other duties concerning the festival. However, he should be meeting with Sir Tibrus soon. The prince should be with him as well" Answered Arteus.

"That man, always moving behind the scenes. But I suppose it's part of his charm. I have to speak with the Council, so I ask you to keep watch over things Sir Arteus." The Queen dawned a tired expression, having so many duties to attend to in so little time.

The throne's confident knelt before the Queen at her words. "Of course, Your Grace. I live only to serve."

With a smile, the Queen vanishes in a veil of brilliant light, off to the cathedral.


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Citadel
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With Tibrus gone, yelling at his other co-workers, the students try to decide how to pass the time til the start of the competition.

Luke notices Brendan messing with his gadget and decided to learn more. "That's your "Armory Recall" right? Based on what you've said in the past, it allows you to call your weapons from storage to your side, correct? May..may I see it?" The boy did very little to hide his child-like enthusiasm.

While thinking, Anri turned to Ivadi. "Hey Ivadi, you spoke with that Ruecian guy before, right? What kind of feel did you get from him? Did he discuss anything that might give a clue about his fighting style? We already know that Henry practices Hex magic."

[hothead1021]

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Citadel
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the students were wondering what to do with their free time when Anri spoke to him "hmm? well...not that i recognized, besides, i dont think it'd be fair to gain an upperhand before hand don't you think? and I doubt contestants would be allowed to watch the matches if that was the case..." he said

[Creator_Drake]

--- Courtroom ---

"Of course, your Grace." With another bow the Wanderer turned, following the guards escorting the children out of the room. Leaving the room his shoulders seemed to release a hidden tension that wasn't there before. A small smirk formed on his face.

'She's good.' He did notice that the barrier had affected him when he entered the courtroom, but the figure put off analysing the circumstances until the current trial business was done. Looking on it now though, he had to give the woman props, if only silently for now. For the spell to effect him the way it did that meant it confirmed a few suspicions of his but not all of them. Things are definitely getting more interesting by the minute. Turning around the corner the group stopped, the guard letting Peter sit on a bench. Kneeling before the boy the Wanderer held out a hand, a green flame-like aura forming.

"All you need do is relax young one, once I'm finished you'll feel right as rain." So he liked to use the classic sayings, so sue him. Placing the palm of his hand on Peter's head he began the treatment.

The boy would feel a cool tingle dance across his skin, like a soft breeze on a warm day. Soon he would feel his wounds begin to heal, the pain waning by the moment. It would still take a few minutes for the healing to complete but that wasn't an issue.

His body worked on auto-pilot as his thoughts turned inward. He'd bought more time, but they'd still have to act fast. It's a good thing the figure got WordPlay on the job, someone to look for clues while he dealt with the tournament. Speaking of which in all of the excitement he'd put off actually signing up for the bloody thing. Oh if only his superiors could see hi- wait. They could. They were. Shit. That was going on record. Oh well.

Coming back to the fore the man could see that Peter was healing nicely. Faster than he thought actually, boy's energies must resonate more with his own than he initially believed. Good to know. Once done the glow faded from his hand, which gave the boy a firm pat on the shoulder.

"Feels better right?" Giving Peter a nod the Wanderer stood before turning to the guard.

"If anything happens, find the guard that I gave a stone to. When you do tell him the need to contact me and he'll know what to do." He then turned to young Fallia, his height imposing over her own.

"It was a poor choice you made in there but I'm sure you feel it was worth it, no matter how misguided. As promised however, you will find your jacket mended once all of this is over, regardless of how it ends." His piece said the Wanderer strode out the hallway, rolling his sleeves down again as he passed a staring young woman at the front desk. Her eyes widened further as a portal appeared before the Wanderer which he stepped into before it disappeared.

--- Citadel ---

A portal appeared in an empty hallway which the Wanderer stepped out. Looking about he got a feel for the area before shrugging his shoulders and making as his namesake, began wandering the halls. Moving towards the nearest aura he sensed he soon came across a familiar group of students milling about, no doubt waiting for the tournament to start.

Before moving towards them he took out the journal, reading the last few messages then quickly set about writing to WordPlay.

Good work, that will definitely help later on. As for the compensation that's up to the boy, if he agrees that's his choice, and only if he knows all the details. If he refuses I'll surely find a means instead.

Some new developments. I've been able to prove the boys innocence by ripping the girl's testimony apart like she did her own coat. Not out of the woods yet though. Bought us some more time, likely till after the tournament and After-Feast happen. Cody likely bought off/blackmailed to vote against Culiar. Father and Daughter incarcerated at the moment.

Side note: both pissed off the queen in the court. It was amusing.

White Witch helping the Count's side, odds are for her own reasons.

Once you're done find a spot for us to compare notes and I'll meet you there so long as there is still time before the tournament starts.

Finished he closed the book, making a clear sound in the hallway despite the muffled booms and clangs from further in the hallway. Stuffing the journal up his sleeve once more the man made a sedate walk towards the Princess and her fellow students.

"Fair greetings to you and yours, Princess."

[KillMoves]

"If you be so kind as to give us permission to investigate the room, I would very much appreciate it."

"Of course! Anything to help an official of Zauberheim." The bartender happily replied.

Upon entrance, the room in question looks like an average, furnished room of an inn. Quirille entered ahead and began examining the place. "I hope you have something up your sleeve 'cause it looks like the crime scene's been properly cleaned up." The Alraune said as she sat on the bed. "Or we can go see that Erik guy. Make sure what comes out of his mouth is the truth."

As she stroke the bed's white sheets, her gaze fell at the window. "A rape case huh? Do you mind elaborating? Like who's on trial and how Count Sivana is involved?" She asked.

--MEANWHILE--

"I see very well then. I thank you for you participation in the session, Ms. Rielle, and please see to it that you also arrive at the citadel on time."

"Of course, Your Majesty." Rielle bowed before leaving.

Meanwhile, Peter and Fallia were lead out of the courtroom with the Cloaked Wanderer following behind. Peter was allowed to sit down at a bench to allow the Wanderer to do his magic. Kneeling before the boy, the Wanderer held out a hand, a green flame-like aura forming.

"All you need do is relax young one, once I'm finished you'll feel right as rain. Feels better right?"

A cool feeling washed over Peter's body as the aching and the pain slowly lifted. The student breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank you." Peter said. "I don't know if I'll ever repay you for what you've done for me... but if you need help, don't hesitate to ask me. I'll do my best." The boy was not used to receiving kindness for he was usually the one giving it. Having it the other way around was a pleasant feeling, Peter admitted.

The Wanderer soon left after telling Peter how to contact him and delivering a subtle warning to Fallia. Peter sighed once more, his plans on watching the tournament gone with the wind though he thought things could be worse. He took a glance on his accuser, her head hung and uttering no sound. He could always ask why she was doing what she was doing but he felt that it was not the time.

--ELSEWHERE--

Keith had arrived to a small crowd in front of the courthouse and saw Queen Brunhilde vanish in a veil of light. Joining the crowd, the mercenary listened to the announcement of a Zauberheim guard. "The trial has been postponed! I repeat the trial has been postponed! Peter will be under custody for the time being along with the victim, Fallia Sivana!"

"Hey, hey, what happened to Count Sivana?" Keith loudly asked, as part of the crowd. Knowing little what asking that question would entail.

"He has been detained along with Sir Thomas Valentine due to unruly behavior in the court."

"What?! That is not fair! He was only defending his daughter!"

"A load of bull! Count Sivana and his ilk are nothing but ruthless thieves! His daughter included!"

"A bold generalization and accusation. As if you lot are better?"

"What's that supposed t' mean? My family and friends are honorable people! Unlike you high nobles, cheating your way into the Academy!"

"How dare you! My two sons have made it into the Academy with only the clothes on their back!"

"And their 'allowances' no doubt!"

"I've had enough of you lowlife scum!"

"Bring it you noble f***!"

"THAT'S ENOUGH!"

A voice bellowed from the courthouse. A voice Keith recognized. Descending into the crowd was the White Witch Rielle. "Ladies and gentlemen! Are we not part of the kingdom of Zauberheim? A kingdom of civilized thoughts, civilized actions and civilized people?" The crowd's rage unto one another waned as they continued to listen to Rielle. "Nothing can come of you brawling for superiority. Only the ire of the guards and the royal family."

"He started it..."

"Do you think that matters?" Rielle asked. An answer was not given and the crowd began to disperse. "Noisulli tcaxe."

"However, releasing frustration every now and then isn't bad..." Rielle whispered.
"Huh?"
"You can teach them a lesson, you know?" The White Witch continued.
"How, you just said--"
"I know. But I speak about right now is a more... legal way." Rielle placed a hand on the shoulder. "You realize what I'm talking about right?"

Meanwhile, Keith had slipped away from the crowd and found himself at the fringes and near Arteus, watching Rielle walk away alone. "Well that was close. Though it could've been fun to see Gangs of New York in real life. Am I right mister man?" He suddenly asked Arteus. The mercenary honestly did not know who he was talking to but felt the need for a second opinion.

[EndZoner]

---------------------
Bannered Centaur
---------------------

Upon entrance, the room in question looks like an average, furnished room of an inn. Quirille entered ahead and began examining the place. "I hope you have something up your sleeve 'cause it looks like the crime scene's been properly cleaned up." The Alraune said as she sat on the bed. "Or we can go see that Erik guy. Make sure what comes out of his mouth is the truth."

As she stroke the bed's white sheets, her gaze fell at the window. "A rape case huh? Do you mind elaborating? Like who's on trial and how Count Sivana is involved?" She asked.

"Yeah, I was thinking about it but I didn't know how to word it properly so I guess it's now or never.", Word Play stated as he began his explanation of the situation. "Okay, so, this friend of mine is called the Wanderer. Fanciest name that I've ever heard of.", he added sarcastically. "He found me and decided to make a deal with me. I help a friend of his in trial and I get some names that I've been meaning to cross out of my figurative list. Anyway, the guy on trial is named Peter Culiar or something. I think he's just a kid that goes to a private school for the hotshots of tomorrow. Anyway, the supposed rape victim is the Count's daughter. So the Wanderer thought it's weird and decided to have me play detective. Asked me to dig up some dirt on the Count and that's how we first met! Imagine telling the kids we would most likely not have in the future!", he joked.

"But to think that you doubt my sleeves... I'll have you know that I have many tricks in them!", he stated as he began writing words on the wall.

Show me the last 24 hours within this room that these words were written in.

The words glows brightly as it began emitting a mist. The mist would act as a medium to allow Word Play and Quirille to see what had transpired within the room. The mist would take the form of the occupants and items within the time frame while playing out the events of the past. The spell was specified to focus on the last 24 hours as the incident should have occurred in that period. With this spell, he would be able to find clues that other investigators may have missed. Like for example, an empty potion bottled that may or may not have rolled into the floorboards.

"Now we shall wait only for a moment!", he said excitedly to Quirille.

---------------------
Luminous Citadel
---------------------

Luke notices Brendan messing with his gadget and decided to learn more. "That's your "Armory Recall" right? Based on what you've said in the past, it allows you to call your weapons from storage to your side, correct? May..may I see it?" The boy did very little to hide his child-like enthusiasm.

Brandon gave Luke a blank expression before giving him an answer. "No.", he stated flatly. The words seems harsh but he'll soon explain! "The tournament is about to begin and you want me to loan you possibly my important equipment? Hell no, that's stupid as all hell. We've known each other for only a day or two and I don't want to risk being sabotaged.", he said to Luke. "However, I'm willing to let you look at another of my inventions that I have no plans on using in the tournament.", he suggested to Luke. "Hold on, I'll show you my-Oh come on!", he exclaimed as he realized what he has been doing unconsciously. He realized that he has been altering his Armory Recall and its appearance has changed. It has now become more smaller and it's more akin to a visor than a headpiece. He cursed to himself as he figured that it have also affected its functions. Equipping it, he activated it to see that the visor projects images and information of his invention that he can affect with his thoughts.

Hoping the transportation function is still there, he proceeded to summon the item that he was intending to show to Luke. A small flash of light appeared and a sphere floated in front of him now. He sighed in relief that his Armory Recall had only improved. "Okay, here, it's called the Flotation Vagabond, I wanted something to help train me for anything in the air but I got that instead. It projects a field that alters the effects of gravity. Right now, it's inactive and just floats aimlessly. Here, take a look and try not to grip it tight. It's how it activates so watch your strength. I mostly use the thing as a toy to keep me distracted when I'm bored.", he explained as he swat the sphere to Luke which goes at a speed that a child and can go after. The Flotation Vagabond is a small, dark gray sphere made from the same unique materials as all of his other inventions and has a diameter of 3 inches. To some, it might as well be a toy. However, like Brandon had stated, it reacts to the grip of the holder. The grip must be tight and it can generate a field with a 10 meter radius where the force of gravity is lowered to near-nonexistent.

The reason why Brandon has no use for the sphere in combat is that the Law of Motion still applies. At best, it can be served as a distraction for his opponents. The sphere continue to float slowly to Luke. Brandon had his attention diverted from Luke when the Wanderer appeared before the group again. "Oh hey, our possible opponent.", he said to no one in particular, but to the entire group.

------------
Elsewhere
------------

"You know, the hit to the head was completely uncalled for.", Dahlia said to her older brother.

"You were sleeping in an important meeting. You were unprofessional as always.", Jonathan pointed out to his younger sister.

"Pfft, all meetings are important to you. Which reminds me, shouldn't we talk to you-know-who?", Dahlia asked.

"No, I'm certain that we're being monitored to some extent by the kingdom. For now, we must be cautious as anything can jeopardize everything.", he answered. "For now, we must keep an eye on the tournament. Our superiors stated that it'll be an important event that the Order might use to carry out whatever plan they have in mind.", he added.

"Oh, I know!", Dahlia began as she attempted to tell Jonathan of a plan that she came up.

"You want the two of us to separate and reason that you would watch the tournament from the inside while I observe from outside to ensure that if the tournament is attacked, I might be able to help. And another thing to note is that you want to watch the combatants fight in hopes that the majority or attractive and you take joy as their attires are destroyed.", Jonathan interjected perfectly.

"Great, you know the plan and I am off! Wish me luck!", Dahlia said quickly as she ran off to get to the tournament in time to watch it unfold.

Jonathan sighed as he began making his way to a cafe that's across the place the tournament is being held at. "She never does change, well, I suppose that's good to know at least.", he said to himself with a hint of sentimentality.

[Phantom77]

----------------------------
Outside the Courthouse
----------------------------

As the Queen felt, tensions began to rise outside the court as news of the session's postponement and the detainment of the Count reached the ears of the citizenry. The crowd grew divided over who was in the right: The Sivana house or the young Seraph student. Before things got too out of hand, the White Witch descended into the fray, ceasing hostilities among the citizens. However, Arteus could clearly sense that something was...amiss.

At that point, a rather strange fellow who had the look of a sellsword approached the Royal Family's aid with an equally strange question. "I know not what this 'Gangs of New York' is, but such uncivilized behavior will not be tolerated in this kingdom. I beg your pardon sir, but I have some business to attend to."

Before he left, Arteus gave Keith a bit of advice. "Also, do your best to stay out of trouble. I am aware of your recent actions, and patronizing youth is quite frowned upon. I trust we understand each other?"

The noble servant then made his way to the scene where the White Witch stood. His expression no more serious than before. "Ms. Rielle, while I do appreciate your act of calming the citizens, I believe there are other duties you should be attending to. It would be for the best if you were to leave them in my care."

Arteus then spoke to the individual who Rielle had a hand on. "Sir, please calm down. I understand your frustration of recent events. However, know that the Queen's decision was made with everyone in mind - noble or no. Simply return to your daily routine and I promise on my word that justice will be served."

"Now then, I believe you were just leaving, Ms. Rielle?" Said Arteus, as he turned to the magician.


-----------
Citadel
-----------

Luke was busy at play with the little gray orb Brandon have given him, with Anri warning him to be careful. Lisia giggled at Brandon's expressions as he toyed around with his device.

However, as if to change the tone, an unexpected guest arrived in front of them. To their surprise, it was none other than the Cloaked Wanderer.

Student eye's flared up as they saw the Cloaked Wanderer right before them. "You, but I thought...If you're here, then what of Peter's fate? What was the court's decision?!" Lisia didn't know if the Wanderer's presence was a good or bad thing.

"He...He wasn't sentenced to death was he? I'm sure the Queen saw to give mercy to his plea of innocence, didn't she?" Luke nervously inquired.


---------------
City Streets
---------------

As Jonathan began making his way to the local cafe, a lesser succubus dressed in fancy robes made her way over to him. "Excuse me sir? You are Mr. Jonathan, correct? My name is Cecile, it's a pleasure to meet you!" She said as she tried to get his attention.

"I'm an official serving one of the high council members. Forgive me, but I noticed that you were heading to that cafe over there. Perhaps we could get a table and further continue our discussion? Don't worry, I'll pay~"

[Creator_Drake]

--- Citadel ---

Gazing at the students, the Wanderer folded his arms together in silence. Before their nerves got out of hand he broke the tension with an amused chuckle.

"Maa, maa, there's no need for alarm, Peter Culiar is alive and well." He gave them a moment to process his words and calm themselves before continuing on.

"While I can't give you an exact recount of the events just yet, I can give you a vague summation of what transpired. Make no mistake, things did not look well for young Culiar when I arrived. Thankfully, I was able to turn the tables around so to speak on the Count and his daughter by proving a vital part of her version of the events were false. Your mother was indeed quite angry that she had been lied to right in court. At the moment both the Count and his daughter are in custody and will be questioned for the truth. Culiar in the meantime will also be held in custody though it is likely he will be treated with much less animosity then prior. So for the moment until the Tournament is concluded the trial has been suspended. Speaking of which..." Here another chuckle resounded in the hall but this one sounded, nervous? A hand reached up and began to rub the back of his cloaked neck.

"Could you direct me to the signing desk for the Tournament? You see... in all the excitement these last few days I've yet to sign up for the competition, so it's like that." While his one hand rubbed his neck, the other was raised before his face in a half prayer. A common stance of Zipangu when asking for assistance when he last checked.

[EndZoner]

---------------------
Luminous Citadel
---------------------

"He...He wasn't sentenced to death was he? I'm sure the Queen saw to give mercy to his plea of innocence, didn't she?" Luke nervously inquired.

"Wow, you look for the worse case scenario.", Brandon commented on Luke's inquiry. To be honest, someone that worries about someone tries not to think of the worst case scenario unless they know how they would act. "Shouldn't you hope for the mediocre to best scenario?", he quipped at Luke.

--------------------'
Luminous Citadel
--------------------

As Jonathan began making his way to the local cafe, a lesser succubus dressed in fancy robes made her way over to him. "Excuse me sir? You are Mr. Jonathan, correct? My name is Cecile, it's a pleasure to meet you!" She said as she tried to get his attention.

"I'm an official serving one of the high council members. Forgive me, but I noticed that you were heading to that cafe over there. Perhaps we could get a table and further continue our discussion? Don't worry, I'll pay~"

Jonathan instantly stopped in his tracks when the lesser succubus held his attention when mentioning about the meeting. Due to the details of the meeting, everything must be kept confidential unless the place of discussion is safe to speak in. He must confirm if the street and cafe is safe.

"Well, I suppose I could spend my time talking with a beautiful woman...", he said in response to Cecile. "But, just to be sure, you're Cecile that's an official serving one of the high council members, correct?", he repeated her introduction as a question. He worded it in a way that it's a yes or no response question. He'll know if she answer anything but 'yes' or 'no', than she's a possible enemy. Furthermore, he had just heightened his senses to allow him to detect if she's lying. His hearing is so sharp that he could hear her heartbeat and his vision is so dynamic he'll notice if her facial expression change in the slightest while also being able to read her body language.

"Forgive me for asking a question such as that, but I try to make sure to get the facts straight. I hope you can understand.", he added to lighten up the mood to try to not make her suspicious of him. Though, it may have already been too late.

[KillMoves]

"Okay, so, this friend of mine is called the Wanderer. Fanciest name that I've ever heard of. He found me and decided to make a deal with me. I help a friend of his in trial and I get some names that I've been meaning to cross out of my figurative list. Anyway, the guy on trial is named Peter Culiar or something. I think he's just a kid that goes to a private school for the hotshots of tomorrow. Anyway, the supposed rape victim is the Count's daughter. So the Wanderer thought it's weird and decided to have me play detective. Asked me to dig up some dirt on the Count and that's how we first met! Imagine telling the kids we would most likely not have in the future!"

"I see." Quirille replied. "It's so like Sivana to pull a stunt like that. Though I wonder what this Peter boy did for him to go so far like this." She wondered a loud. "I guess we're going to find out, aren't we?"

Show me the last 24 hours within this room that these words were written in.

The mist soon took the shape of Fallia Sivana entering the room and shutting the door behind her. Suddenly, the mist formed another figure whose exact details could not be made out of. The blurry figure raised its arms and the summoned mist formed bottles and potions as well as other materials to make it the room look like it's been stayed at for a long time. The figure then disappeared and Fallia left the room.

After a few moments, Fallia entered the room again, this time with the student Peter Culiar in tow. The two chatted for a while before Fallia seemed to call for Peter while holding out a bottle with a cerulean liquid inside. The students took a whiff of it before he stumbled upon and fell to the ground unconscious. Fallia then left the room once more only to reappear with guards before the newly-wakened Peter. The guards seized the student and the entire flashback was over.

"That is so low. Yet so effective." Quirille commented. "Still, I wonder who that fellow was at the beginning. I don't remember the Count himself practicing magic." She continued. The Alraune thought about it some more before saying. "I could be wrong though."

--MEANWHILE--

"Also, do your best to stay out of trouble. I am aware of your recent actions, and patronizing youth is quite frowned upon. I trust we understand each other?"

"Yep! Totally understanded!" Keith replied. After Arteus had left, Keith began talking to himself. "Yes. He told me not to cause trouble." He then continued. "No of course not. He didn't hand me a single coin!"

Rielle had been controlling two illusions at once but at the very least they did not have to be different, especially if the responses were practically the same. Her concentration was broken when Arteus approached her.

"Ms. Rielle, while I do appreciate your act of calming the citizens, I believe there are other duties you should be attending to. It would be for the best if you were to leave them in my care."

"Sure. Thanks, Mister uhhh... Arteus right?" Rielle was not quite done with her little activity and it seemed this person was going to ruin it but she left regardless. She was sure she had planted enough for a certain number of the populace to grow on their own. However, she hung around long enough to witness Arteus approach the fellow who accused the nobles of many things.

"Sir, please calm down. I understand your frustration of recent events. However, know that the Queen's decision was made with everyone in mind - noble or no. Simply return to your daily routine and I promise on my word that justice will be served."

"Hmph. Just know that if one were to chase two rabbits, neither will be caught."

After the man had left, Arteus noticed Rielle was still around and reminded her that she should be elsewhere. "Okay, okay, mom. I'm going." She said before opening a portal where she went into.

[Phantom77]

------------
Citadel
------------

Hearing that Peter was still alive and had not been sentenced to death as of yet, the students had calmed down a bit. "Thank you mother, you saved an innocent student" Said the Princess to herself.

After the Wanderer finished explaining that he had not yet registered for the tournament and needed to know where the registration desk was, there was an awkward silence that lasted a few moments. The students sighed, breaking the silence.

"How charming. We hear feats of this mysterious, cloaked warrior and it turns out he's too incompetent to even register for the tournament in a timely fashion..." Felicie, while grateful for the Wanderer's help in the case, didn't think the man was that impressive thus far. Not knowing much about him in the first place also may have play a part.

Anri made note of the Wanderer's distinct Zipangunese mannerisms while Lisia began to speak. "Please don't mind my friend, her tongue is sharp but she's not a bad girl." The Princess points to the signing desk, which is a little ways away down the lobby. "Just state your name at the desk, and I'm sure the receptionist will take care of the rest."


--------------
City Streets
--------------

Cecile could sense that Mr. Jonathan was on high alert, a fact that she found rather humorous. She decided the play along with it and ease his suspicions. After all, she was on his side.

"That is correct, sir. I am indeed Cecile, a humble and most loyal servant of one of the kingdom's high council members. Since the cafe is a more appropriate place of discussion, I'll go into further detail and answer any questions you may have there." She humbly bows before the man. "If by that point you still don't trust me, you may do with me as you wish. You may even swiftly dispatch of me and not have a thing happen to you. I swear on my word."

The lesser succubus's words were filled with complete sincerity, indeed she meant no harm.