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Alessia listened to Kageyama's instructions. He's being very helpful for someone who was our enemy before... Maybe we can trust him. A bit. Still, she had no intention of letting her guard down around him and she knew that Zephyr was probably thinking the same thing. Speaking of him.
"Yeah, I'll be alright to drive. It might tire me out a bit but nothing too bad I'm sure." She replied, flowing her mana through the car and starting it up. She reversed hard, slamming the brakes to avoid hitting a wall behind her and spinning the car 80 degrees in conveniently the right direction. She grimaced at her poor display of driving thus far, but sped off in the right direction, likely breaking any and all speed limits along the way in her haste to catch up to Erigor. They didn't have much time, speed limits be damned. it was life or death for a a lot of people. If Erigor's plan came to fruition then getting into trouble for going too fast would be the least of their worries.



Vance nodded and followed Thea outside, some reluctance in his heart but given what had just happened, he was hardly inclined to say no to his new daughter. Besides, he could hardly resist the look in her eyes. It would be like kicking a puppy and not even he kicked puppies. Vance got outside just after her, he looked immediately for the source of music and stopped dead in his tracks. He blinked twice to make sure he wasn't seeing it wrongly. Zéphyrine, it seemed, was the mysterious musician. It seemed that Thea had no idea. Given her reaction to Zephyros, it was probably better not to say and simply allow her to enjoy the music and the dance. However, he could not help but regard the woman curiously. It seemed that tambourine she insisted on carrying was actually useful for something. This was news to him as far as he was concerned. So it wasn't just a poorly designed weapon. That at least, was good to know.
"I see. What you have here is... Interesting." He spoke.

Alessia shot a glare at Cassandra for outright ignoring her. She was so focused on doing things her way that she didn't stop for a second to think about anything the others said. Had it been someone else, she'd have called them out, but Cassandra was an S-Class. Her hands were essentially tied. The decision filled her with anxiety. The people she was taking to fight Erigor... She could only question the decision.
"Fine, I'll get the car." She snarled, jogging off to go find the aforementioned vehicle. She found one quickly, parked just outside the station. She had never used one of these in her life, but, she would figure it out. She flipped the ignition and then set about figuring out how the damn thing worked.

Caliborn looked down in satisfaction at the fallen Siren. He felt his pockets fill and patted his new wealth with satisfaction. He placed the third arrow he had mocked back in his quiver and slung Ashmar over his back again. However, it seemed that someone took issue with his decision to intervene.
"I didn't wish to take any chances. Sirens are powerful creatures and their powers have led more than one group of people to their deaths. I simply didn't want any of you to be taken in by it." Caliborn responded evenly. Then he smiled. "Besides, a hunt is entertaining for me." He allowed Malkira to heal Beucette, as she would be fine with a bit of healing.

Edric meanwhile, was enjoying a drink after everyone else went off chasing a dragon or something. Cool for sure, but not something he was bothered with overmuch. He'd had enough of chasing beasts like that. Gexln was there, he would deal with it. As he drank, he heard somethibg, music of some kind, and then a voice. Somebody was singing nearby. For a lack of anything better to do, he went out to go see it. And then, he saw Zephyrine.
"Yer not bad." Edric commented, leaning against a wall. "Boot, et has ta be said, if yay spent that energy ta join the guild rather than sneak ento et, ya might find things a little better for ya." The outfits the face... Everything was familiar to the one who sneaked into their guild hall.

Vance embraced Thea again. He was set on this. Something just said it was right so, he would do it.
"I'm sure Thea. We'll get through your troubles with magic, it won't be a problem. Everything will be alright." He looked at the girl that he just adopted. The look in her eyes and the smile on her face said it all. He felt a warm sensation inside himself. Happiness, pride as well. He knew he had made the right decision. And to just see how happy it made her, the fact that it was the smile of a happy little girl that faced him... He could only lament the lack of a wife to share that smile with. He kissed her on the forehead. "I'm proud to have you as my daughter Thea. I'll see if I can find you a mother too. Wouldn't that be good, having a mommy and daddy?" Vance smiled. Everything in the world for once, felt right. Then, since Cal had moved everyone back to the guild hall apparently, he sat down in the hall. He wondered if that racket outside would stop.

The question shocked him to his core. It was such a simple question. It was a simple answer too. Yes, or no. But that did not make it easy. Eveythint he had been taught in his life came back to him. Words that his father had ingrained. There wasn't much to gain from this, objectively speaking. Worse, there was only things to lose. But equally, he remembered being told that not all rewards are physical or obvious. How could he accept this? He hadn't been taught how to be a father, not the kind that she wanted. All he knew was politics and ruthlessness, that was no way to bring up a child even he knew that - He lived that himself. Vance was no fool, even if he was confident and unyielding he was not blind to opinions. People would not think highly of him, he was certain. There were better, more suitable people to caring for a lost little girl.

And yet, on the verge of saying no, he stopped himself. There was an instinct. The same one that drove him to hug the crying girl in front of him. The same instinct that drove him to try and look after her in the first place. There were memories, feelings that he had long since cast aside but never truly forgotten. How, for just once, he would have liked a hug, praise, something genuine and affectionate that wasn't lectures or political double talk. And then he thought back to Neasa, how he was quick to defend Thea's honour. Even if there was self interest to be had in it, he had no reason to say more than deny it. Another thought struck him. He hadn't been taught how to be a godson parent? Was anybody? Of course they weren't. His father only had lessons but no affection and he knew that he forced his mother to be the same, even if she quietly let that mask slip. And then, it all made sense.

He didn't need to be taught, he just had to do what he thought was right. And in a way, his father gave one last invaluable lesson. Vance realised what he was missing, what his mother did for him and knew that was the way. The political machine in his head turned and spun, piecing together connections. With him as the adoptive father of the lost girl, then what family she had would be appreciative and maybe there was tangible benefit there. Then there was the contract. So what if he didn't marry? He'd have a child. Not by blood, but perhaps in spirit and in law. She was noble. She could be everything that he would want of a daughter. In many ways, she was already there. Leaning back and putting his hands on her shoulders, sitting on one knee, Vance looked into Thea's eyes with a smile, his gaze lacking the cynical intensity replaced with warmth instead.
"Yes. If you wish Thea Strive, then I, Vance Dorian will be your new father."

"I know little one, I know..." Vance's heart went out to the poor girl in front of him, so vulnerable yet out of control. At the very least, the flames were cooling down, which he was thankful of. It didn't seem to bother him, perhaps as a result of the Phoenix coat having some mild heat resistant properties. She seemed to cling on ever tightly as he held the child there. He had to figure out something, but what? What could he do? He almost cursed himself for getting into this, but then stopped. This is what he did, wasn't it? To some extent surely? Surely there could be no dishonour in helping a lost little girl, no shame? Thea seemed to have awakened some sort of parental instinct he didn't even know he had. The strangest things came out of this contest. First, some sort of genuine affection for someone, and now this. What was happening to him? Whatever it was, it wasnt helping because he was at wit's end trying to figure out what to say, or do.
"I can't give you your mother, or your father back. But... But maybe, I can be there instead. For a while at least. If you would allow me of course." He offered, and immediately reprimanded himself mentally. What WAS he doing? He had just signed himself up for trouble, having said he'd look after this horribly traumatised girl. But of course, he just said it. It would only cause more of an issue to take it back. Thusly, he had to continue. He hugged Thea tighter, trying to comfort her more. He hoped this paid off.

Caliborn used Wind Raid and Treasure Raid

"We can't let you take two people to fight Erigor. Like poeple have already said, it'll onl, get you killed and nobody else will die on my watch!" Alessia exclaimed. Thy had to catch up to him, but how? Erigor had a massive lead on them, so how could they catch up? They'd need something fast moving... "Wait, Quinn, you can use your magic! There was a form that you used that allowed you to fly! Two S-Classes... If you can take two then that makes six people to face Erigor with. That's more than enough." She stepped forwards.

"Whatever happens, I'm coming to face Erigor. I can protect you people with my Barrier Surged it'll help keep you all alive and I'm no weakling either. The others can catch up in some sort of vehicle, this will work. It has to. If we catch up to, and then stop Erigor, then this is over." She finished.


Vance meanwhile, listened to the cries of the upset girl in front of him. He could see that things were getting to her, that she was getting incredibly stressed. He could sense the heat, the magic getting out of control. He would have to do something, and quickly, to make sure that she didn't lose control. But what? What could he, a noble, do? If he were a child... What would he have wanted? Memories of his childhood came up, the stern coldness of his father and the distance that he forced. He looked down and frowned at the ground, mulling it over. That was it. Something simple, something that every child wanted. Something that he wished that his father would have done, somewhere, deep down inside.

Vance opened his arms and drew Thea into a hug.
"We won't speak to Zephyros then. He won't come near you, okay Thea? I'll make sure he stays away." Vance said quietly. He hoped that this worked. A moment like this, one of weakness was a hole in his persona. An all too obvious gap that someone could try and use to undo him. It had to work. It would seem out of character to anyone outside, but only he knew the truth of himself. As he knelt there, embracing Thea he thought to himself. If he were to honour that contract, then he would never marry. Never have a child. Perhaps... Perhaps he wouldn't need to. She wasn't HIS child per say, but she was of the right descent, good blood... It could work. Nor did she have a family to go back to. He banished the thought. It was a fantasy, too fanciful. This was the real world. It wasn't a story. This only worked in stories. He would comfort the girl, try and make sure she didn't burn down the ship. Anything else... That was just emotional baggage and as he had been taught, it had to be disposed of. "And forget about the past, the fire. It doesn't matter right now. What matters is the present. Everything will be fine, for now."

Thank you for voting for me everyone who's has done! I'm amazed I'm actually on the list at all. Now then...





Al Vi Britannia commands you - Vote for me!

Once again, thank you all for voting!

Vance looked at the distressed little girl. Ah, that's what did it. It wouldn't surprise me, she has a gentle temperament and the peasant is ignorant of circumstance. Wait, did she mention something like this beforeon the boat? Of course, she did. And if it is indeed her fault then it must be... Magic.
"Thea dear child..." He began, feeling the heat emanating off her body. Suddenly, everything made a lot of sense. That was not the natural heat produced of a crying girl,meh had seen enough of those in his life from whimsical ladies at parties to know what that was like. That could only mean Magic. How tragic, Lord Strive. To be slain by your own daughter in a fit of upset or anger. Not unlike me in some ways, but wilder than I. Perhaps that is common ground. I understand, to an extent. "Listen to me, Thea. What happened, is not your fault. You are young, you were younger then. You had no way of knowing how to control your gifts. I too understand Magic out of your control, but now that you know, perhaps you can change things? You are in a guild, a place for people like you, and I, i suppose. You can learn, become better, more skilled."

"If you wish, I will join you and we can explain to Zephyros the greatness of his error and get an apology from him. I believe him a fool, and a man who believes himself above his station, but not entirely a vagabond. He will make an apology to you." Vance offered. The only other thing I can think of doing is trying to talk about what happened. I'll leave it to her.

Caliborn used Vernier and Arms X Vernier.

Alessia went off to try and find Cassandra, but it didn't matter anyway because Virgo appeared which was pretty cool so it made the whole thing rather easy. Long story short, they all got out and she waited for the plot to drag her wherever she was meant to go.

Vance stood there looking very annoyed because his rper wasn't there to boss everyone about into going home giving that stupid Zephyros guy stupid ambitions and dreams of grandeur when he was barely worth anything in life. He made a mental note to strangle him the next time he dared to be so presumptuous.
"For once, I agree with the peasant. He does speak the truth. It is regrettable that we must leave but, what must be done must be done. Besides, I believe we all signed a contract did we not?" Vance said, leading them out because that's what Vance does.However, as he escorted everyone out he noticed something when he looked back at the group. Everyone was in varying degrees of spirits, Thea being in the lowest of them. She seemed genuinely distressed by what had happened and judging by her objections, Zephyros also bothered her. That wasn't surprising. He bothered everyone. He walked over and when they were on the boat home, he took a moment to put his hand on her shoulder and looked into her eyes.
"I know it can be difficult to turn away from things, especially after what happened with the unexpected spirits. However, I believe that things will be fine. Those spirits will not cause any permanent harm, of this I am certain. That strange witch is mysterious, but if she truly wants to help Nessa then she will spare their lives and chase them away." Vance reassured. The. He looked up into the distance. "We cannot fight every battle young Thea. You must always make a choice. As nobility, we are the first among men and women, and we must choose whom we help and who we don't. We cannot pay everyone the greatest amount on our estates, so we must choose on merit what they achieve and reward accordingly. Similarly, we cannot dedicate ourselves to every cause. This is but one cause among the many out there. We can be certain that Nessa will be safe and her suitors too. There are other places, more important places, that we must fight. We tried here, we failed here, and now we go to find success elsewhere. This is the way of the world. Learn it well, young one. And learn who your friends are. You will want them by your side."


Edric laughed at Thomas as the boy stumbled out.
"Ya won en the same way that eem speaking en un English accent! Fer yer benefit, et means you didn't!" Edric called. Thomas was a good lad. He reclined back in his seat, drinking his tenth pint. A dragon sounded interesting, but he'd leave that to Gexln. Probably didn't need his help anyway. He was a big boy. He could look after himself.

Vance was far too educated in these matters to be taken aback by what she said, no matter how much it took him by surprise. He covered his face with a smirk instead, preparing to enter into the next level of the battle. It was time for what he was trained for. Duelling with the highest echelon, respectful words yet cutting implications. Each remark aimed for purpose, it was time to enter the game that he had immersed himself in the entirety of his life. He could only relish the opportunity. He cut the flames. They would only get in the way.
"You speak below your station then, Governess. Henceforth, let us speak more respectfully to one another. I apologise for failing to recognise your rank earlier, however it was difficult to ascertain." Vance let the unspoken words of "Because you not only look, but act unlike your rank." hang in the air before continuing to speak. He couldn't say he recognised her name. Even in these parts, her identity was a mystery and he certainly couldn't name any nearby independent states, and he had met most of the leaders of nations nearby and those he had not exchanged words with, he had seen at least. "I suppose that since you had the courtesy of naming your lineage, I should respond in kind. I am Vance Dorian, firstborn son and heir of Stevan Dorian, Lord of the Dorian estates and future rulers of much more than that." He bowed respectfully, before returning to the matter at hand.
"Would you kindly name your state? I am familiar with the rulers of all nearby lands, having met many and at least seen the rest. I am unsure of where the Thropp family rules. The impression I gained from Nessa was that the family only held this estate. Are you perhaps more extensive elsewhere?" He inquired.



"She's a Siren." Caliborn stated. "Don't be fooled by her illusion. If you fall for her spell, you'll be nothing but her next meal. I am not fooled by you, Siren." He aimed Ashmark at the head of the creature who still dared to masquerade as the ideal woman for him. He would never fall for that. He frowned at her.
"Leave now, or we will destroy you." Caliborn threatened.

"You entertain me. Rho and Aias? Struggling? No. They have defeated one already, the second shan't take so long. And as for that intolerable man, if he can even be called that, he is no acquaintance of mine. Acquaintance implies some measure of willing association. There is none." Vance retorted. So, she has wits then, interesting. She might be entertaining, if only to battle wits against. "So then, O Green One, care to explain your identity or will you leave that as vague as you have your motives? I also wish to know that. Say, are you bored? You seem it. Perhaps you should face me directly and prove your mettle. It may well relieve your boredom, if only until I set you down upon the ground, kneeling before me as the low class dog you are should." Vance's smile widened as he met her eyes as they verbally sparred, enjoying the little dialogue they had going. She was good for banter. Perhaps he should subdue her, shackle her in magic cancelling chains and keep her at the Dorian estate. He could see himself enjoying a short clash of wits with this woman. For now however, he would content himself with frustrating her and trying to uncover her motives and her identity. She clearly had some relation to Nessa, that was unmistakable. The question that mattered was what the nature of the relationship was exactly, and why could Nessa not identity such a distinctive person? Were this green woman his relative, he would certainly remember as she was unique, to say the very least. This led him to question the validity of her claim.
"Are you truly related to Nessa? Somehow, I question it. Someone with your distinctive tint would be recognisable." Vance questioned.

Alessia brought her sword up and readied it as soon as they saw Rayule. Despite not finding their target, she was glad to some extent. Erigor was probably the most powerful Dark Wizard there, and she didn't fancy her chances fighting him with just Quinn there. They would need the full might of what members of Sapphire Eclipse they had with them to defeat him. For now though, she and Quinn could easily defeat this guy. He was an S-Class, and she was no weakling either. Mustering the Barrier Surge shield around herself, she charged forwards at Raylue, beginning the fight and placing herself between Dark Wizard and herself. It was unlikely that he would be able to seriously hurt Quinn, but she wouldn't risk her Guild mate any longer than necessary.
"Your money and power are worth nothing here! And your plan is as good as over!" Alessia cried as she charged into him. "You won't be reporting back to Erigor!"

Alessia used Barrier Surge.



Vance picked up the coat left behind by the fallen spirit. It was brought down by the flames of he and Taylor. He regarded the girl with an approving eye, giving her a congratulatory nod. He had to admit that she at least looked better than most people in the Guild, wearing fairly respectable clothing and maintaining her personal appearance. Of course, she still wasn't nobility which put her out of the question and there could only be one reason why a woman would go to a contest to earn a woman's hand. Taylor was a lesbian, so even if she were suitable it would be entirely pointless to even try. Still, he respected her fighting capability and noted that they were remarkably in sync, using the same style of attacks at least twice. She could be a useful team mate in future. However, he put the matter of Taylor out of his mind for now and focused on the coat. He put it on, noting that it was remarkably comfortable and the feathers felt very fine. it was unique, to say the least, and he may have to change some of his clothing to fit with the blue of the coat. While it was draped around him, he felt something about it. A magical presence, he assumed. He reached out to it and suddenly, the coat burst into bright blue flames. He moved his head away from the dancing fires, only to find his head inside flames behind him. They did not burn him. So... It does not harm its wearer. Interesting. Vance smiled to himself. A reward worthy of a lord. Then, Vance looked around the room. Aias and Rho still struggled against what he presumed was another casket's spirit, perhaps clay and Zephyros was losing against what was quite clearly the spirit of the Golden Casket. As much as it would entertain him to watch, there was a more important issue. Blue flames licking the air around him, he strode towards the black clad woman whose skin was a bright green.
"As you can see, we are defeating your creatures. Care to give us some answers now? We have defeated your creatures. I can't imagine you being problematic to defeat." Vance spoke, his voice radiating with noble confidence. "Now who are you? Who dares interrupt these proceedings?"

Boreal listened to what GexIn was saying, stopping laughing so he could actually communicate. He listened to the S-Class wizard, nodding understandingly.
"Understood. I will apologise to Dale..." He sighed at that. He didn't particularly feel like humbling himself before his brother, but it looked like he'd have to, if only to avoid more trouble. However, he thought he was getting off lightly with GexIn. Everything went wrong as soon as Trevor started talking about mistakes. His eyes opened wide when Trevor went into Satan Soul mode. Mikasa can do that too. Oh no...
"Oh shit." Boreal said before being sent sprawling to the floor, his nose bleeding heavily from the massive punch he had received. As he held his hand up to his face, he felt himself being lifted up and was soon enough slammed painfully on the ground causing an explosion of pain in his side. Before he knew it, the chains were on and Trevor was gone. As the man tried to leave, Boreal scrambled after him, but before he could get halfway to the door, the metal chains snapped him back. "No! I will not be sealed in this tower again!" Scowling, Boreal slammed his fist on to the stone floor and cursed from the pain, then shrinked back against the wall and waited for someone to release him.




Dale walked around for a while, fairly aimlessly. He sat at the park, looking out at the large pond and finding a little solace in the calm waters and quiet there. He walked the busy streets of the city, losing himself and his woes in the tides of people going about their daily business. He stopped off for a drink in a café, relieving some of his troubles with a hot drink and time spent considering. However, eventually, Dale came across a person. A person with an offer, and a mission. Dale accepted. Filled with new purpose, he returned to the Guild Hall. He made a beeline for GexIn, needing to pass something on to him.
"GexIn, there's something you should know." Dale said. "I've heard rumours of a dragon around. While I was out, I heard about it from someone in an inn just outside of town. I thought I should tell someone here and well, you're the only Dragonslayer around." Dale kept his head down, hoping to avoid the attention of the other Guild Members. He didn't really want anything to do with them right now.

"Excellent Taylor!" Vance praised as they wore down the creature more. It seemed that this fight was almost over. Between the two of them, they had almost certainly defeated this creature. Taylor had taken the majority of the damage from the fight, but that didn't matter much. In fact, it only meant that he was less injured, which he was absolutely fine with. However, the Sapphire Spirit was not quite defeated yet, so it fell to them to finish it off. Raising his staff and setting it alight once more, he looked at the Sapphire Phoenix and walked towards it. "Vance Dorian condemns you- By fire, be purged!" With that declaration, Vance charged towards the blue phoenix and smote it with the flaming staff, channelling magical energy through it. That would make a nice coat.

Vance used FIre Dash

"At this point do you think I fucking care? You're just the same as all these others Mikasa. I always thought there was a human in there. Apparently I was wrong." Dale grabbed Mikasa's hand and slipped his fingers between hers and kicking off Mikasa's body. He slipped out of her grip and landed hard on the ground, humiliated. Dale rolled across the ground and stood up, swiping up his staff. Suddenly the entire situation changed.

Dale's eyes lit up in fire as soon as the prank ended. I see. This was all an elaborate trick. Boreal... Mikasa... Trevor wouldn't do this he's confused so it has to be George... Dale's eyes welled up with tears. He tried to blink them away, but it was too late and they started to stream down his face.
"I see." He choked, clutching at his throat. I'm so weak... I let them win... "Trevor... George, Boreal and Mikasa decided to play a prank on me. George used his Copy Magic... Appeared like Johanna... You can see what they did. Make them pay for me. Tell Johanna I love her, and that I'm sorry, and that I want to see her again somewhere that isn't here. But I'm done. I see what kind of people live here. Gaius and his stupid stories mocking me, you three playing cruel tricks on me. I see what you have here. I hope you fucking die. She, and Caliborn, and Edric. They were good to me. The rest of you... You're all a bunch of lying, deplorable motherfuckers." Dale turned around and threw the doors open again, sobbing as he stumbled down the street. He didn't know where he was going. He didn't care. He just wanted to get away from Sapphire Eclipse.




Boreal started laughing as soon as tears started streaming down Dale's face. His face was etched in a malicious grin. This is perfect. Finally, I get to enjoy myself at his expense. Finally, he pays for taking my father away from me. Our debt is not settled Dale, but it will be paid soon. As Dale walked away, he continued to laughing, having to support himself by holding on to his thighs.
"Thank you for that. You have given me the chance to get revenge for Dale causing me a lot of pain. He took my father away from me, and now... He gets the same back. It's nice to see a little bit of justice in this world." Boreal explained, still smiling.

Dale was on the verge of lashing out at Boreal and Johanna, but Mikasa stuck her nose in matters. What she said made him laugh spitefully.
"Oh, my negative manner Mikasa? People in glass houses shouldn't throw stones. What is it they call you? The Witch of Sapphire Eclipse? Curb your tongue you bitch, or I'll tell Caliborn all about our little chat today. That'll impress him, won't it?" Dale threatened, grinning sadistically. "Now get the fuck out of my business. This is between Boreal, Johanna and I." That's when Dale turned on the girl he loved and the man that was ruining everything.
"And as for you Johanna... I loved you. I've loved you my entire life and I've tried my absolute best for you, and this is what you do? I've honestly never felt so betrayed in my life. Apparently I've been wasting my life, if that's what you really think." Dale spat.

"Dale, mind your language!" Boreal shouted. This was working even better than he could ever have imagined. My brother has turned on Mikasa too! This is even better than I could have imagined! It's all I can do to not laugh! "Honestly, Mikasa is an S-Class here and should be respected! Your attitude is hardly appropriate Dale! You should apologise to her at once!"

Dale gritted his teeth at Boreal's riposte. He was not going to lose this duel of wits!
"Perhaps when she apologises for the hurtful comment she made to me, then I'll consider doing the same!"

"Not so bad when you get to know him?" Dale sneered. "I tried to get to know him, I tried to make friends with him, but look where that went! He doesn't want to make friends with me, and I refuse to try until he actually wants to fix that gap too! For now, all I see is some kind of egotistical madman that has far too much ambition and is even more out of his mind than I am! And I am fucking furious right now!" Dale advanced on Johanna and Boreal, glaring at his half brother. I have to change my tactics.
"Johanna. We've known each other for years, surely you can see what I'm saying?" Dale pleaded. I have to be able to convince her somehow! I have to!

Boreal listened to Dale. He'd leave this one to his partner. It was fitting to 'Johanna' to crush him now. Hmm... Did Mikasa have anything to add...

"Why, Mikasa, no need to be so rude. We're just here to have a little fun. Let it all happen, you'll see soon enough." Boral said with mock friendliness. He wasn't inclined to be polite, but equally, he wanted to outline where they were. She wasn't going to bother him while he did this. After all, they had a deal. Soon enough, George began the deception.

Boreal smiled pleasantly and waved as George made their greeting. It seemed that Dale was frustrated at the moment. Oh, this is going to make it all the sweeter. He'll be easier to fool than ever, not to mention even more unstable.
"Yes, whatever is the problem Dale?" Boreal's voice was layered with patronising sympathy, the kind he knew Dale hated.

Dale snapped his head around and turned to face the sound of Johanna's voice. However, his heart as it rose, sank to the very bottom as he saw her arm around Boreal. He growled under his breath, glaring as his brother. What... Johanna... Mikasa... Why did they let him out... Why are you with him like that? Johanna...? He put the thoughts of her out of his mind. He had to deal with the here and now.
"Step away from her." Dale demanded, he point the staff at Boreal. "You don't deserve her, you crazy son of a bitch. He tried to kill our Guild Mates Johanna, and he tried to kill me especially. So step away from him!"

"Kill? No? Get out of my way? Yes. I didn't want any of you dead. That would make me as bad as the demon I sought to destroy." Boreal answered, speaking truthfully. It was nice, to be able to mix a little truth in here. It would make the act only more convincing. Of course, other people needed to believe. He was certain they would.

Caliborn followed along quietly as they went on the boat to the enigmatic Vanishing Isle. It was a legend he had heard in these parts, although he hadn't actually seen it himself. This he knew, was a rarity. To see it, let alone set foot on it was a truly remarkable thing. He was more struck by the enormous turtle the buildings rested upon. It was a majestic beast. One day, he would put together a hunting party and try to slay the beast. He was fond of his little hunting trips, seeking the most exotic of creatures from across the world. Naturally, he would need to bring Dale with him to chronicle the hunt and to make the model of it afterwards. It would have to be his largest and most impressive creation yet. The isle itself, he noted, was extravagant. Who built this place I wonder, and why? A fitting place I suppose, to keep the legendary Hand of Midas, but still... It would be difficult for anyone to build this. There was potent magic used in this construction. Perhaps I shouldn't hunt the turtle, it would ruin the majesty of this place. It is one of the wonders of the world perhaps, if only for the sheer defiance of possibility and physics for its existence. As they walked along, the S-Class wizard admired the bizarre castle-like structure, all the while looking around. He was still uneasy. Something seemed wrong about all this. This was too easy, and something about the name Riders of the Desert bothered him. Something seemed wrong with them, but he still couldn't find any hard evidence for it. He would launch his own private inquiry at some point. He was glad that Balthazar had promised them the Oracle's Staff. It seemed good to take away items of such power from these people.

When they entered the hall, Caliborn stopped only for a moment before reaching for Ashmark on his back. The woman in front of him, half human, half fish, a mermaid was rare enough, but he knew the true nature of it. it was not what it appeared and it appeared to have the whole party smitten. Not only that, but Beucette was taken in by the imagining of hers', going so far as to strip herself down before throwing herself at the creature. He cursed her idiocy. She was going to need rescuing- Desperately. Still, he wondered what she saw. The woman he saw was tall and thin. Her eyes were wide and brown, her hair a golden brown that ran down her back with strands hanging over her face, adding an aura of mystery to the elegant figure. Her smile was wide, her expression enigmatic yet she was poised enticingly, practically drawing him in. This only made his grip on Ashmark tighten as he drew back the string. His brow was furrowed in concentration as he resisted the illusion of the siren with all his willpower.
"Everyone, stay back! It's not what you think it is!" Caliborn ordered.

"Ohooo Thomas laddie, I like ya! Yer've got a bit of spirit in ya!" Edric laughed, clapping Thomas on the back. He didn't even ask Mikasa at the bar. In fact he just ignored her and slid over the counter with practiced grace, landing with a loud thud on his two feet and hefted a huge casket from under the counter, grinning. He jumped on to the counter, hefting the massive beer filled thing and hopped down again, carrying it to the table. As an afterthought, he grabbed a clean mug for Thomas and slammed it down in front of the boy. Then, he turned to look at the fuming Mikasa. "Mikasa, ta be honest with ya, I wouldn'a worry 'boot et. The little fucker es goin' to be oot cold in a minute! Beesides, girl en't prizes, the boy knoows that. He's joost tryin' ta impress senpai, aren't ya little laddie! Now run along and do yer thing, fawning after good ol' Caliborn or whatever et es that ya do in yer spare time. I'll sort this little man right oot!" I hope she listens to me. I'm trying to defuse the situation here. Thomas is a little thick, and he's just gonna make the crazy bint angry. I don't want to have to mop up Thomas paste from the floor. Edric leaned in to Thomas.
"Ef ee were ya, apologise. Et'll make her pissed at me fer being a dick rather than at you." Edric whispered. I'd rather she were angry at me than the lad. He don't deserve her wrath. Better that it comes to me. I'm older and I'll take it better than he will. Also, I can actually handle her in terms of magic which he does not have the blessing of. He felt a little tense as the situation went on.




Boreal's face lit up in a wicked grin at George's suggestion. If I can't have my revenge on you by surpassing you in battle brother, I'll just torture you with what you love the most! He had to resist the urge to laugh. Are you ready brother? I'm about to make your life hell with this guy.
"I think you and I might be friends." Boreal said a little ominously as George changed his shape into Johanna. He slipped his arm around Johanna/George's as they walked down the stairs. "Trust me, this will get to him. There was a girl in the village that he lived in. Mother and I came to visit Dale and my father while father's new wife was away in the town with a sick aunt. There was a girl in town that Dale liked. While we were there, he wanted to play outside so I decided to get some of his friends. Sadly, the naive little boy told me where she lived while he went to get some other boy. I came back with her like this. The look on his face was priceless, not to mention the part where he tried to split the two of us apart. We were young then, but I don't think he's changed very much. I know exactly what to do. Play along with me. We'll get the reaction you want..." Boreal flashed a killer's smile as they walked 'together'. This was going to be so worth it.

Dale watched with mild amusement and bemusement in equal measures as Rennette and Gaius duelled for the paper. Ultimately, it came to naught and Rennette simply had to reconstruct the paper. When looking at the page, he had to note that it was an excellent replication from what he had seen; She was bizarrely talented, he had to give the girl that. Boreal examined the text in front of him with some interest, and a small amount of confusion.
"Decipher this text and earn 500,000 Jewels. Hmm, not bad. What does this bit sa-" Boreal commented. His face became a picture of surprise, and more than a little horror as he saw the words written in front of him. Of course. This. With the words in front of him, he could now understand what the problem was. Someone actually read them out. Sadly, since the original text was in Gai- Charlotte's stomach, there was only one thing for it. He smirked. "Very well everyone... I know how to dispel this. It's far, far too complicated for your tiny minds but, the short version is, you all have to kiss each other before your souls may return to their own bodies." As he said that, Dale in the wiry form of Thomas flung his arms around himself and began to passionately kiss him with all his might in an attempt to shove his soul back into his own body. As this happened, the world itself shook at the sound of an angry voice.

"What the hell Gaius? I would never do that! What's wrong with you?!?!?!?!?!?" Cried the real Dale Hawthorn as reality returned.



Dale was stood up, scowling at Gaius who was regaling them with some sort of ridiculous story to pass the time. He clenched his fist, gesturing wildly, somewhat speechless after his outburst that the cocky mage would dare say that about him. Who does he think my brother and I are?
"How come in your story, Boreal is some kind of almost heroic figure trying to help the guild, and I'm just some stroppy, angsty idiot?" Dale continued. "Do you all really think that little of me? Gah, I don't know why I waste my time. Screw you Gaius, and screw the rest of you for laughing along with him! Idiots, all of you! No wonder I have anger issues with all you prats hanging around this damn guild!" He viciously kicked a chair, sending it scattering across the hall and stormed off towards the doors of the Guild Hall with eyes on fire. He felt a headache coming on from the raw rage that his body was trying to contain. He swiped up his staff from the table it was leaning against on his way out with his sword, rarely used as it was on his belt. He was so done with these people. He felt as if his gaze would burn through the wooden doors of the hall. As he reached them, he took a final look around at them.
"I'm done! I don't know if I'll even bother to come back!" He spat, kicking flinging the doors open wide and striding out as they slammed shut behind him. Where he was going to go, he didn't know. But that was a problem for another time. Right now, he just needed to get away from those bloody wankers in the hall that mocked him continuously. They didn't know what it was like to be him, they'd never understand. "Sorry Johanna, though I bet you wouldn't even care if I was gone anyway. What a bunch of fucking fakes!"




"This... Is... So... Dull." Boreal grumbled, sitting back against the wall of the tower where he was being held hostage. He put his hand down on the floor and looked up at his captor. "Look, this is a waste of time for both of us and uncomfortable for me. Why don't we make a deal? I get to go downstairs and the S-Classes here, and I know there's at least two of you here, if not more, can watch me? Have you guys got any problems? Maybe a magic spell you don't understand that I can help you with? I've done my research, I know a lot of obscure things. How about the Moondrip? I'd wager you don't understand how that works. Or maybe matters relating to interactions between magic and the soul, hmm? If it's magical theory and some of the more obscure, older magics you want answers for, I've got it. I'll be happy to teach you all what I know if you'll just let me go out of this tower! Hell, I'll even stick around if that's what I have to do! I promise I won't try and murder my brother, but you'll have to keep him off me. How does that sound, hmm? Happy yet?" This was such an undignified place to be. He hated this situation, every aspect of it.