Scene #7106: GF1: An Unshaped Prelude

Owner	Pose
Arkae Zellar	Welcome to the Ashen Isles... home to the Shaper Empire, which contains the College of Shapers and the Shaper Council, both of which are made up of science-mages known as Shapers, who use the magic known as Shaping to Shape their creations... ... Yes, the word 'shape' has six different contexts already. Yes, this was done completely unironically. No, this trend is not going to get any better. Buckle in and shape up, kids. ... The northernmost island in the Ashen Isles chain is a large one, comparable to the size of the United Kingdom. The warpgate's in the capital, which is at the tech level you'd expect for a fantasy world... albeit one at the upper end. There's electricity here and there, but it's not widespread, and most people still rely on oil lanterns instead of electric lights. The college is very visibly not open to the public. Its campus is seperated from the general populace by various barriers, with gates and checkpoints that are guarded by pairs, trios, and in one case a quartet of beings: a robed mage, and one or more monstrous creations, typically large neanderthalish humanoids with oversized muscles. Credentials of those arriving are checked - sometimes by the guard going into the guard shack and conversing with what appears to be a human-faced pig lying flat on a pedastal, and then you're waved through. You were invited, after all... at least this time. Those arriving are directed through the campus and to the college's main hall, which is in full reception mode for welcoming the guests of honor - that is, you. You're the guests of honor - yes, even you, <charname>. There's more Shapers milling about, in the same sort of hooded open robes... they're uniform in design, but color seems to be up to the preference of the individual - except for the bright red scarlet robes that differentiate the apprentices. You can tell who the apprentices are anyway, they're the ones who look the most put-upon, in the manner of the universal overworked grad student. The apprentices aren't the lowest on the totem pole here, though... that belongs to the short... things. Like the shapers, these are humanoid figures wearing hooded robes, but they're hunched over, legs and knees bent at all times, and on the occasion that someone gets a glimpse under the hoods the face that looks back at them is... off, in an uncanny way. They're mostly busy making sure the buffet table stays stocked, and also for the most part everyone else is just ignoring them, the same way you ignore furniture unless you need to walk around it or sit on it. Aside from the food, there's a few other things of interest right off the bat... a few of the college's upper ups are near the entrance, waiting to make introductions. Towards the back, there seems to be some sort of demonstration being set up, and off to one side of the hall there seems to be a small group forming to take a tour of other parts of the campus. ((Image references: https://imgur.com/a/xzz11DL ))
Arcadia	It should be no surprise that, being scholars of both science and magic themselves, the Technocracy of Argo Alexandria have taken an interest in the rare oppritunity of normally cloistered sages to be observed. But since their own elders rarely ever leave the city they of course dispatch their Guardian to collect the potential information for them. It's not the kind of mission Arcadia particularly enjoys, but it's her duty to do so as a protector of wisdom and lore, so she will do it. Maybe she will learn something herself. Maybe she'll just be mostly bored. But she's here to do as she has been instructed all the same. Let's see how much a humanoid armored sphinx stands out or not. So far she only sees robed figures of various sizes. Oh well, disguising what she is isn't in her wheelhouse anyways.
Linehart	The music is none too pleasant. It is an ominous, low theme that hangs around the massive, shadowy knight with every step, replacing what should be the clanging of armor and the clanking of steel. It is a miasmic malice, an ambient malice, the slow start to what would obviously become a pitched and heated and desperate battle song the moment combat began. It follows him like his cape, trailing, flowing smoke that lingers in the air a moment after he's passed. The music's low points are like the low red light of his cross-scar visor, deep and dark, the color of blood. His every footstep is a purposeful stride. Here is a man who, seven feet or more, lacks not for purpose in his walk, in his step, if indeed he is a man beneath that armor, if indeed he is a person. It's....well, it's hard to tell. It's hard to tell if he's even breathing, since the only noise around him is that damnable song. He's not, in fact, invited. Nobody would know to do so, and nobody sane would offer him an invitation, not the way he walks, not the way he carries himself, not with his reputation. But when he gets to the gate he presents an invitation all the same. A FEW DAYS AGO A young man lies bleeding on the side of the road. Creatures lay around him, misshapen beasts that had been his guardians, Shaped by his magic and now dead at the hands of the bandits who had ambushed him. He might have had a chance but for the archers, for their organization, for their skill. One of the bandits leans down, a grin on his face. "So first I'll take your money. Then, I'll be having an answer to where you got those fancy beasties. And then, maybe I'll sell you to the College so they can cut you open and find out how your magic-" % And then there's fire. The bandits scream, running off as columns of flame descend from the sky, fists from an angry god, fists from the sun. The young Shaper covers his eyes as heated music fades back to ominous song. A black-armored figure strides towards him. He trembles until the black-armored figure holds out a hand and helps him to his feet. The young Shaper's eyes go wide. "You...you saved my life." The figure says nothing. "Please, sir." The Shaper presses a piece of paper into his hands. "Please, I would have you thanked properly for your efforts. Take this. Go to the Ashen Isles and present this to the guards. I've signed it. They'll know it's legitimate. They'll...I don't know what they'll do, but you deserve a reward, and I have naught to give you but this opportunity." The black-armored knight takes the letter. It disappears. He turns and walks away, leaving the young Shaper to bind his wounds and heal himself. RIGHT NOW The black-armored Knight presents the letter. It does not have his name on it, but it has the name of the young Shaper, and a stamp, and the words of gratitude on it. The paper is skin. The young man probably made it on the spot, else made it from some beast he had grown. He is directed into the main hall, where he simply waits. He does not eat. He does not partake of the food. He does not do much but silently observe, a strange and frightening thing from another world standing there as if he belonged, his music a cowl, his gaze unreadable. His head tilts every so often when someone comes up to him, to look at them, to look at the small creatures, to take in what details he can. This is new. So it's interesting. Besides - he is well-acquainted with strange and terrible monsters. Given his role.
Kupot	Emmisary of the Multiverse, that is Kupot. As one of the few Watch on hand, he is here to represent the faction of... destroying entrenched power that refuses to do things with it's power to actually benefit the world around them and serve the people they are supposed to. THIS WILL CERTAINLY GO WELL. Kupot is wearing his FANTASY GARB, which he uses in Last Illusion, though he still glows at the pom and has WEIRD PORTS on his hands and feet, but no one probably pays attention to those here. The HUD, which, let's be honest, is basically the Robocop HUD, goes over various people in the crowd, picking them out, tryihng to establish threats and hazards as Kupot makes his way slowly up towards the College. Ah good. Servant race. Kupot presents his letter besides Linehart.
Sumiko	Arriving was Mikoto, but not in a magical girl outfit nor in the normal western clothes she wears when she is usually out and about. Today she is in a formal kimono. The dress goes down past her legs, where she's in traditional sandals that are only seen when she walks. The kimono itself is in her color of choice, green. The jade-like color is also embroiled with whites and golds. On the front of the kimono, and on the parts that hang down from the arms seems to make a scene of a castle of gold, with flowers growing upon the seemingly ruined and potentially lost city of gold. The sky of said city is embroiled on the part of the kimono that crosses over her chest, revealing a golden sun and lighter clouds. She takes a few moments to take stock of her surroundings. She WAS here to represent the Concord, but she was also here because she was curious about this. Maybe there were answers to her own problems here, or maybe it was just a fun outing for an evening? Who could say, but you don't know till you try. She moves towards the college's upper ups first, looking to make her own introduction. She makes a polite bow to those who meet her, "Hello, I am Mikoto Shimizu, representing the Concord tonight. It is a pleasure to meet you."
Maya	Maya's homeworld often applied science to its study of magic and it had also used magic to alter creatures and biological materials to suit various ends. From ships, tanks and even clothing could be found which was alive. Yet they altered existing creatures but not making things from whole cloth. This had Maya's attention and interest. It might be a bit creepy to some but so far nothing has left her concerned she needs to learn about them right? Maya's gear was a mixture of leather with some bits of metal armour, her long blue hair ways as she heads towards the college. Green eyes dart about taking in the place as shes' shown to the main hall. She seems in decent enough spirits as she looks over local from the apprentices to the strange humanoids in robes. Maya makes sure to wash up her hand and then she'll wander over to the buffet to get some food while trying to scope out the people she'll talk with some of the locals trying to find someone she could start to ask questions about the nature of their magical research. She's curious just to what applications they have taken it to. In turn, she'd note her people uses a measure of magical biotechnology often for ships and other large craft.
Amelris Belthrone	AMELRIS BELTHRONE is also here. Which is actually rather fantastic considering the pains he's been in since yesterday but this is the kind of occassion that you don't just refuse to not go. It's a great opportunity to explore and see some new sights! Some new views! The city itself will be something interesting to explore but the main event, the Shapers, is why he DID get an invitation. He didn't change much to his outfit, besides sprucing it up, making sure there is not a lot of burnt marks around on his clothing and just stepping up to hand his invitation at the entry. Several people are here, too, that he knows! Then, servant races. Ah. Shapers. In that way. Alright. Sure. This is going to be an interesting... evening.
Tamamo	An isolated island nation, full of secrets, opening its doors, just for tonight. Not just for tonight, in the end, most likely, but it's still an interesting enough premise to have Tamamo no Mae make her own request for attendance. She is not here on behalf of the Paladins as such, but as a magically-inclined person with an interest in others' magic, and more than that, in 'people.' Any chance to push the boundaries of the familiar is a welcome one. The Shaping craft will, by necessity, bring out some questions as to 'what is a person?' It is already doing so, as Tamamo steals glances at the brutish, animal-like guards, the immobile brain-creature on the pedestal, the sages, the apprentices, and the almost-human servants. She doesn't move to directly investigate any of them, not quite yet, but that's liable to happen at any moment, even if she's no ready opening for a conversation past 'hello, and what are you?' She needs just a minute or two to take in the surroundings, to look over (but not immediately partake of) the food, to recognize, or try to recognize, the other elites present, and to look to her escort for her own first impressions. Getting invested into a conversation before the hosts have even introduced themselves might be a little on the awkward side.
Arkae Zellar	Not long after integration, the Shapers had put out feelers into the multiverse at large, just to get a sense of what's out there, and then there'd been briefings about the findings. Arcadia stands out, but nobody here is surprised at how much she stands out. Some of those here are mentally prepared for a superintelligent shade of the color blue to show up. No surprise, but no small amount of curiosity. There's more than a few circumspect (and not so circumspect) glances at Arcadia in passing, as if trying to figure out what makes her work. Not long after Linehart parks himself in the main hall, one of the upper ups (in a deep wine-red colored robe) seperates herself from the group and approaches him. "Excuse me..." she says. "I wanted to extend our gratitude... and also had a few questions, if you don't mind." She extends her hand. "And welcome to you as well," she says to Kupot, who seems to be nearby. "My name is Shanti, I'm the master of apprentices here." Mikoto, meanwhile, approaches the knot of academic nobility, and one in a purple robe steps out to meet her. "Shaper Indigo," he says. "Dean of the college here. It is indeed a pleasure." "So, the Concord? That's certainly a name with teeth." Maya's inquiries get her directed towards either the back of the room, where the demonstration is being set up... or that parts of the campus are open for either a guided tour or (with supervision) her own exploration. Mentioning 'magical biotechnology' garners her some attention and interest. One of the little servant guys approaches Amelris with a tray of drinks and holds it up to him, offering him one. "Would sir care for red or white?" it speaks.
Lilian Rook	Lilian Isabelle Rook is not here as a curious lookie-look, nor a humble visitor, or some bored Elite with time on her hands and/or a vague 'mission' to 'see what's up'. She is here absolutely owning the position of 'esteemed guest' and then some. The general structure of a government run by an organized council of magical professionals with their own college and way of life is fairly familiar. Thus, for all intents and purposes, she's considering herself a foreign dignitary, representing another powerful faction of the same. One that is, of course, undeniably a big deal; even if her mental image of it might be slightly inflated, there's not really any denying that she has both connections and clout worth at least considering. So, she is dressed to the nines for the event, not quite to the metaphorical tens. It's close enough to a 'black tie occasion' that she opts for the appropriate wear, but not quite a 'queen's own visit'. Appropriately tasteful but expensive jewelry, a light and formally black dress of high quality, with the middle-modest amount of slit, the correct sort of cross-strapped heels, cinched waist sash, and fitted elbow gloves. The kind of thing a notch below 'soiree' and a notch above 'cocktail party'. But there's still no hiding that ominous aura about her. Not quite 'evil', nor 'malice', but a dark, uncanny, skin-prickling shadow that follows her. Radiating particularly from the heart, or rather, the cruciform black iron pendant tucked away. It mingles with a mild, standard 'magical pressure', under a thick layer of strong, passively attention-commanding presence and improbable attractiveness. "Don't they have the weirdest familiars here?" she opines, loudly enough to be heard, but not loud enough to be rude, to Tamamo. "And so many of them. Certainly a summoner-based paradigm, but they're not summoning them, are they? Purpose-built creatures like this aren't opportunistically drawn from some void. I'd assume it's a rare craft, outside of this place." It only takes a short glance around to get the corner of her mouth to twitch. "Though it looks like they don't know better yet, in the sense of inviting practically everyone and anyone. And that music, can't he turn that off for manners' sake? Granted, I think that one might be the only other person worth a damn when it comes to power here, but I don't like the look or feel of him." She ignores the table spread for now, usually making a habit of making sure to leave eating for going somewhere else. She goes straight to tracking down the most likely expert, in terms of greatest competence and knowledge, even if that's not the highest status (though it'd be nice if it were), to immediately ply the obvious question: "So what exactly is it you do here? As a college, I understand that this place is for the training of Shapers, to then go on and lead the island, or perhaps the whole assortment, but what is it that you think makes that worthwhile? Go on! Let me hear the pitch. Why is it that your Shaping and your Shapers are important enough to need showing to the Multiverse? What is it you hope that will catch our interest? Why are you unique?"
Sumiko	"Nice to meet you, Shaper Indigo," Mikoto says more directing her greeting than the general one she gave the entire body. "And yes, it is quite a name. I hope what you have heard lives up to the name. If you have any questions about the Concord, I would be happy to answer them." "Of course, I have questions for you as well. Some of them business, some of them on a personal level. You see, not only am I a member of the Concord, I am what many worlds call a 'Magical Girl'. I am interested in the types of magic studied here." She keeps a smiling face on, holding her head confidently and not shying away from holding eye contact, even if she is shorter. "I did notice a lot of different...familiars is the word I use, but perhaps you can give me the appropriate terminology here?"
Arcadia	It doesn't matter if it's sidelong circumspent glances or outright staring. Arcadia's love of attention will eat it all up regardless. Her reaction is about what one might expect from a celeberty of some manner to their percieved fans. She waves to the shyer glancers to one side, does flashy finger-point gestures to the other side at people not hiding their staring. At one point she even stops and strikes a dramatic pose, spreading her magitech-augmented wings out wide, arcane energies shimmering in the paneled surfaces. Arcadia does (eventually) remember this is about seeing other's magic and not being seen, and quickly catchs up to the rest of the group. Though still looking quite amused with herself. "Sorry, I'm here." Gestures a thumb over her shoulder at a random cluster of apprentices. "Was just warming the crowds up~"
Amelris Belthrone	Amelris throws a glance aside at Kupot and Linehart, particularly to the tall armored man being greeted. He gives some polite, stoic nods. They are well practiced and meaningful, somehow conveying the appreciation of being invited somewhere in a single motion of the neck. When the servant comes up, the Red Mage looks down at him with a smile. "I would like a white, thanks you very much." The Miqo'te says, taking up one of the cups of wine, appreciative of it. He's Lominsian. He like a good little bit of wine. He EARNED that right when he was a kid. "Tell me," He adds, afterwards, looking over at the shapers. "Who are the heads of the Shaper's Guild currently here?"
Linehart	Unfortunately, the music doesn't turn off. Still, while it's low and ominous, it's at least...neutrally ominous. It doesn't sound like it has any intent, any meaning, behind it - just...sort of there. When the upper-ranked Shaper comes over to him and offers a hand, rather than take her hand, he places his own over his chest and bows, in a knightly fashion. Granted, a slightly exaggerated one, one you'd see in a childrens' story more than real-life, but a knightly fashion all the same. It sort of clashes with his evil presence a lot, except that, well, he's roiling in darkness, his armor is literally black as midnight, and he has evil music following him everywhere. She says she wants to ask him questions. He simply nods politely, waiting. When Lilian makes her way over, the massive armored knight looks at her, his red-scar visor an impenetrable glare. There is the sense that she's being sized up, examined, contemplated by the massive shadowy figure. At last, however, he places his hand over his chest and bows respectfully in that exaggerated fairy-tale-knight style. Or, less generously, that over-the-top villainous style that mocks that sort of thing. He's clearly willing to wait for the Shaper to answer her questions before the Shaper asks him his.
Maya	Maya seems to be enjoying the food, but then again most off-world foods was vastly different in their staples to what Maya was used to. So it was always a treat to eat new things from other worlds. She does seem pleased to be able to learn some more about this world and she seems very keen to talk about it. Maya would explain how they use to make body armour for example which can bond with the user to a limited extent. Or certain creatures that are altered and grown into massive living ships or other heavy vehicles as well. She will be at the back of the room watching the demonstration that's being sit up. "So just to what extent do you use your abilities here? We as I said before alter existing or purpose bread lifeforms known as Helgak. Large carapace flying creatures which range from beast we use as mounts all the way to those we turn into ships.
Kupot	Kupot takes the hand briefly, shaking it the best he can. Small fingers. "It is nice, kupo, to come to a place where I am asked to be, and violence does not erupt immediately." He examines the table with the food. After he finds a box, he re-examines the table with the food. Generally, luxury food like this goes to waste. No harm in eating. "We are happy to an-" ENTER LILLIAN HOOK. KLet's be fair. Kupot's HUD is about the same as Linehart. Except that the sizing up, examining, contemplation comes from someone standing on a box to reach the table.
Arkae Zellar	Somehow, Lilian garners more attention than Arcadia, at least once Lilian starts talking. People are trying to figure out both Arcadia and Lilian, but off in the corners of the room people are sharing whispered notes about the one and not the other. The person who 'knows the most things' and 'the person who knows how things work around here' are likely different people, but the general feel is that Shaper Shanti, in the wine-red robe, is the prime mover and shaker. "Well, we have the prowess to create life itself. I think that's a pretty big deal, myself, perhaps you disagree," says Shanti diplomatically if a bit snarkily. "As to why we think it's a big deal... we've seen some of what's on offer from elsewhere. 'Summoned' creatures that come from somewhere else with their own motives. Mechanical robots that need to be programmed laboriously by hand... and that have a tendency to go 'rampant'. Such a fun new word. They go 'rampant', and then do things like seek to destroy all other life." "Everything we create, that is everything we create outside of our very secure testing areas, is tried and tested and proven hundreds of times over. It's safe, it's potent, and it's versatile." "If you'll exuse me a moment, though... mostly I wanted to ask your name," she says to Linehart. "And then why you intervened to save one of our own." Meanwhile, from Indigo: "'Familiars', as I understand it, are typically semi-permanent and tied to the person who created them... it isn't terminology that we'd use, or that I'd encourage. It is, in fact... ha ha, the literary literal opposite of the sort of attitude we employ. We do not want to get too 'familiar', you see, with our shaped creations..." Mikoto is getting lectured at in the manner of the smuggest college professor who thinks his droll jokes are being endlessly clever. Also right around this point is when Amelris clutches his head and stares blankly off into the distance for a while. "... Sir?" He's missed whatever the answer to his question is, and the servile is still holding out the tray up to him, rotated so that the glasses of white are within reach. "Are you alright, sir? Should I call for medical attention?"
Tamamo	"They are, perhaps," Tamamo says to Lilian, "more like the people of... ah, the name of the city escapes me, but those who created S6 and I4, no? Perhaps less so, if they are not hiding greater wonders, which by all rights they should be." She gestures subtly to the way the shapers stood together with their neanderthal-like creations. "Something of 'independence' is missing, by comparison, yet in other cases... are those robed servants creations, as well? Curious." And another gesture, back toward the human-faced not-pig, "Or perhaps it is all a matter of specialization, within the paradigms of their traditions. Such would fit the theme of intentional, particular design, as those who 'shape' their familiars might prefer." Being unable to detect the telltale magic, and hearing someone mention 'biotechnology,' she takes it as a given that these are not, precisely, magical familiars. "Music?" Tamamo looks about, as if just realizing where it's coming from. "That is an unfamiliar... not 'face,' I should say, but 'appearance,' all the same. 'Music,' hm... aha." They move over toward someone hopefully knowledgeable, which is also in the direction of Linehart, who may or may not have actually been recognized by Tamamo on the basis of 'is a knight' and 'has background music.' Linehart bows. Tamamo bows in return. It is precisely measured. The wandering goddess is interested in 'the pitch,' as Lilian put it, but she is also interested in the servants. Staying close enough to hear (which, given the size of her ears, doesn't have to be all that close), Tamamo steps just far, watches how the shapers direct the uncanny, smaller, robed figures, and mimics the manner so as to flag one down, herself. Ostensibly, she wishes for a drink, or a snack, or something else the servile creature might be carrying. In fact, she just wants a chance to lock eyes and push through her glance a subtle, mystical feeling of calm trust and clear importance, a sense of the fox goddess being someone who should not be looked away from, imparting some quiet Charm magic to hold the creature off from its duties long enough to greet, then question, as if those questions were part of the occasion itself. She was invited here to learn, after all, so that's not even far off. 'Please introduce yourself,' is a good way to start, and she can follow up with her questions from there, along the lines of 'oh, and what is that?' or 'how long has it been thus?'
Sumiko	Mikoto listens to the dottering old and smug professor, giggling when he makes his joke about not becoming too 'familiar' with their creations. She listens, letting him go on with specifics, and for her credit, she actually listens. Still, she's used to those that are more self-important than they have any right to be. She also considers that he is Dean, so maybe he has the right to be this way? Best not to judge just on attitude and personality. "I see, so they are permanent creations, but you do not wish to create any sorts of bonds between them and yourselves? Now I am curious as to how you can create such things without...well life being life? It is my observation that life attempts to find a way to grow out." "I would be very interested to know how you managed such a creature, that does not grow, yet is alive."
Amelris Belthrone	Amelris had taken a sip out of his wine, smiling and waiting for the servant. Then the headache comes, the Miqo'te letting out a small grunt and holding his head. Did he drink something poisoned? His gaze lingers on Indigo as his vision fails, replaced in his mind with a sight from the Echo. The world fades to white. It is deep inside the academy, a young apprentice is at long last given the chance to use closely-guarded secrets, the reason they studied so hard for so many years. The power to create life. They are brought inside a chamber. The young apprentices reads from a scroll, given instructions and, at the tip of their will and fingers, new life is created. Something simple. Something small. Joy, pride. Exhultating of reaching this far. Moments later, the instructors, keeping their expression stoic, reach for the second half of the instructions: to prove that they are capable of creating life, that they can handle the responsability of it, they must snuff it out with their own two hands. They must understand the burden of creating as well as ending it, if they are to become it's masters. The vision ends there, Amelris shaking his head rapidly, his ears flapping to give the servant a confused, apologetic look. "...No, no. It's fine, thanks you very much. It is just a brief dizziness spell, they happen from time to time." This certainly brings everything into a far different light than before. They have repsonability and yet... well, this is still chilling, in a way. It is at about that time that out of his side bags pokes out a wriggling, glowing fox-like nose, followed by the head of a fox-like being with a gem on it's forhead. A Carbuncle have snuck through his belongings and is just chilling, inside his side bags and sniffing in the air.
Arcadia	Oof, upstaged to a degree by Lilian Rook. That stings. But Arcadia doesn't say anything, because she doesn't want to wander back to Seifer and have him go on another triad about how Lilian is a bully and this and that and that she's trying to be a bully by taking all the attention. Arcadia is not -that- ignorant, even if sometimes it does seem like his ranting might not be entirely wrong. That and she's quickly distracted from it when Shanti starts explaining their take on creating life rather than summoning it. Sidebands jangle a bit as the sphinx tilts her head and listens. That's actually a pretty effective comparison between the two. Then she turns a bit to watch one of the hunched servents scurrying between the tables and delivering requests to others present. "So what gives them 'life', then? Animus? Divine ichor? Holy glyphs in malliable matter?" She's just listing off the other means of 'granting life' she's seen in various lore and mythologies, really.
Kupot	Kupot's insectile lens stare steadily at the Shaper. Well. Kupot has never had to deal with THIS before. This sort of thing is happening a lot. It's kind of killing the wanderlust. The fingers of one hand drum against a plate. In the moment, it's about reflex. But before that moment. Before letting yourself go into that reflex. You think. You survey. You count the points of attack. There's a couched lance here, obvious, deadly, painfully obvious. But only a threat to one of his mindset. Examine their stance. Is it aggressive? "Like an animal, kupo? Creating a dog, a beast? Or can they serve as a man, think and intepret orders on their own, kupo?"
Arkae Zellar	"Complete, total, and exclusive mastery of it," says Indigo to Maya. "If someone else besides our group has found secrets of it that we have not, then I'll eat my hood," he adds, hubriously. "For the majority extent, we follow strictly scripted spells, which permit only certain amounts of variance. Just freely casting around the magics of life... why, could you imagine the sort of disaster that could cause?" He shakes his head. "Luckily, we keep all of our findings firmly locked down here, so there is no danger whatsoever of that happening. Meanwhile, Charm Person (or something like it) is cast, and Tamamo gets to ask a servile some questions. >please introduce yourself "Greetings, ma'am. Welcome to the Shaper College. I am Servile #30527." >oh, and what is that >"I'm a magically Shaped creation made in order to serve, ma'am." >how long has it been thus "For... longer than I can remember, ma'am. I..." The servile rubs the side of his head through the robe, balancing his food tray on his other hand. "I... think I need to have a rest break, ma'am. May I be excused?"
Linehart	Tamamo receives the same reaction as Lilian - the stare from that red-scar visor, contemplative and silent and unreadable - once the exchange is done. When it's done, though, the knight turns back to the Shaper. A textbox pops up. It's in front of everybody in the room - not obtrusive, not able to block vision, simply 'there' off to the side, an old-style JRPG textbox with a blue background and white words in a simple old font. I am Linehart, the Mirror Knight. My Sphere is Evil Knight. She asks why he bothered to save one of them. No words appear for a long time. Then, at last, Is it not obvious? Boy that's a sentence that could be taken a whole lot of ways with a massive lack of vocal aid to back up intent. It's equally likely 'why wouldn't I help someone in need' and 'obviously I did it to enter this place/earn a reward/prey off his misfortune', and considering the way he looks... I would learn from you. I saw a glimpse of your novitiate's power and it drew my attention, and thus, drew me to his rescue. I have no small familiarity with created life, with life cast for a purpose. Learning more about it from masters is something that will further that familiarity, and perhaps, further yours as well. The Multiverse is full of power. It is worth time to court it.
Lilian Rook	Surely people will understand if Lilian's examination of 'a hulking dude in full mail, oozing evil miasma, glowing red from his visor, and accompanies by ominous theme music' is one that is a critical stare obviously full of misgivings. There are reasons she can easily imagine that involve her shortly having to deal with whatever he came here to do, but given that Shanti's first order of business with Linehart is to talk about him apparently saving the life of a college member, she eventually just releases a held breath and lets it slide, withholding further comment on the sheer weirdness of emanating music. Besides, he's given her the knightly bow treatment. Though she can't quite decide how sincere it is. She settles for "Pleased to meet you." hesitating for a moment without having a name to go on before he introduces himself, keeping it reasonably even such that it'd sound accepting if he were being serious, and magnanimously ingoring any intended sarcasm. "As well as . . . you." she at least offers to Kupot. "I think I remember you. Or at least that pom pom item." It's hard to recognize him in an alternate outfit. From that point, Lilian just adds a "Go on." after Shanti drops the 'we create life' line, listening with the posture of someone who asked a question (as opposed to someone who made an insistence or delivered a thinly veiled opinion). "It sounds as if you're not far off the mark, Tamamo. Civilization built on the back of bespoke labourers. Guards. Servants. It looks like even consultants. Fleshy devices? Though in this case, as far as I can tell, purely biological, rather than magic or 'magitechnology'." She says the last word with a hint of disdain, though not particularly, it feels, in the sense of the named world in particular. "And in what way are you accomplishing this, might I enquire?" Lilian continues, conversationally, as Tamamo departs to hassle the help. "As in, how is it that your craft, you feel, is superior to the technological means others are using? In its dependability, sure, but why its strengths would outweigh any areas in which it might not measure up." Her interest continues to sound like some mix of academic and pseudo-corporate. A sort of 'why should we acquire your company?' opening, except without the implication she's going to buy people out. Quite possibly invest, even if in the less literal financial sense.
Maya	Maya listens to Indigo with a good deal of interest. "So template more or less. I could see what could happen with just freely playing with life magic could bring. A new plague could result in or some sort of creature that would cause all manner of woe." The fact they use templates more or less for much of their work is something Maya sees as a positive thing a level of restraint likely learned through a painful failure somewhere back in the past. "So you also maintain high security here as well? That's quite good to know also my name is Maya and it's good to meet you. I am curious about what lead to this open house? I admit your applications of magic had caught my addition as a healer and someone who makes use of magical biotech."
Arkae Zellar	"We keep it all solidly locked down," says Indigo to Mikoto. "Regular checkups. Set-in-steel upper bounds on growth potential." "... I'm sorry, sir, is... do you require pest control?" The servile with the wine stares at his carbuncle. "That's... not something I can tell you," says Shanti to Arcadia, apologetically. "It's one of our secrets. I can say it's a combination of ingredients and the right spells." "And goodness me," says Shanti to Kupot. "We'd be cruel indeed if we were creating people and putting them to menial backbreaking labor till the day they broke down, wouldn't we?" She gestures, bringing one of the serviles over to stand next to her. "These are not 'people' any more than one of those cellular phones in your pockets is a 'person'. We have an ethics board that does nothing but determine how much intelligence is too much, where the line is, and then we make sure to undershoot it so that there is no risk of one of these ever getting true volition or a 'personality'." "We do require several years of dedicated apprenticeship before we'd be willing to teach you..." she continues to Lineheart. "But... if you'd just like to find out more about our teaching process, we need an escort for one of our apprentices to a colony on another island. You'd be able to ask questions and observe." "And... as far as the ways in which it's superior, I think Indigo had something planned as far as answering that..." says Shanti, deflecting most of Lilian's questions. "I think... yes, it looks like he's about to do that big announcement." It doesn't quite sound like she approves of whatever 'big announcement' Indigo has planned.
Sumiko	"I see, I see...I assume there are levels of awareness and individuality that are monitored. So what happens if one of these creations were to ever cross that threshold?" This is not one of those 'are you monster' trapped questions, but a legitimate question on how they control the sapience or lack thereof of their creations. Maya seems to also be talking with Indigo, so she turns to bow towards the woman as well. "Mikoto Shimizu, of the Concord." She greets again, before turning back to Indigo to keep the conversation going. "I am curious, are these techniques used to create life, also used to enhance existing life?"
Tamamo	Tamamo seems to have exhausted Servile #30527, much sooner than her questions could be exhausted. The reasons for this remain a mystery to her. Surely vocalization is not all that difficult? Repeating the same questions to another being unlikely to produce greatly different results, and Lilian having quite handled the matter of prodding at a higher-up for explanations of their important, she searches for other matters of interest. An escort mission to another island, with observation? Yes, that could give answers, but like 'putting together what she's learned,' it can be saved for later. And so she gives the servile a "You may," and steps lightly back over, noticing something a bit different along the way, low to the ground though it may be. She has to step around, and take a few looks, before asking Kupot, "Your pardon, if you please, but are you a samurai?" She doesn't ask if he's a ronin, for the same reason that you don't start a conversation with the vocal assumption that one is unemployed. But a strangely garbed samurai and a strange, ominously musical knight in the same room, how doubly curious. Something Shanti said catches her attention, and Tamamo asides, "Are these the most intelligent of the possible Shaped, then?" The not-pig did seem like perhaps a purpose-built 'consultant,' at that.
Kupot	Kupot nods his head towards Shanti, "Kupo." He removes his hand from the plate and nods. He glances at Lilian, dipping his head, "We have fought side by side before, kupo." His social stance relaxes. No enemy is in front of him. Not yet. It is strange, there is no doubt of that. He turns his head towards Tamamo as he is addressed. He looks down at himself, then back up, "Kupo. Not like you think. It is... an aesthetic where I come from. I am not a noble who serves a lord."
Amelris Belthrone	Amelris' ears are swiveling around like radar dishes, taking in the various conversations around him and, largely, failing to keep track of them all. This would be a fantastic time to get into some socialisation at this point. Also, get a better idea what people ARE saying. "Hm? Oh, no, no." The Red Mage says, reaching out down to the carbuncle in the bag, pulling out the fox-like glowing being to perch it on his shoulder. "This is Emeraldo, a Carbuncle. He's my familiar." The glowing being chirps, laying it's tail around his shoulder. "He would very much appreciate if you could bring it some bits of bacon, if that is possible, uhm...?" He gives a slightly embarassed smile, tilting his head at the Serville, letting that trail off. "Mr." He settles on.
Arcadia	"That is understandable." And pretty much the answer Arcadia had expected, but what would you learn if you didn't ask? "The Elders would say the same of some of their works." When the servile is drawn over for an example Arcadia crouchs down onto one knee to examine it closer. Though only in what she can see herself, being a polite guest and not using her visor or sensors to possibly see things she shouldn't. An ear swivels towards Shanti to listen to the explaination of how they don't developed the level of sapience that could become a conflict of morality towards creations of servitude. Or cause them to go amok. So many possibilities for something to go wrong, for something to change, develope in unexpected ways that run counter to original intentions. She herself has grown in ways that the original Elders did not forsee, though that is an entirely different paradigm. After the explaination ends she stands again, turning and nodding to Shanti. "I have seen the remains of worlds that had creations 'get away' from their creators. It is reassuring efforts are made to prevent your realm from suffering such a fate."
Tamamo	Tamamo follows up on Kupot's answer with, "Oh, so it is an 'aesthetic,'" not clear on whether she actually understands this answer, "and so, neither are you a ronin? And yet, you still make use of the daisho, the matched pair, or is it symbolic in purpose?" She turns to Lilian expectantly, as if she could explain this 'spread of Japanese traditions to unrelated lands' thing.
Arkae Zellar	"Enhancing existing life... that'd be a sight, wouldn't it," says Indigo in response to Mikoto. "I'm not sure if you're aware of it... but all life has little tiny scrolls in it, and on those scrolls are written the instructions for... well, that life. They're very tiny scrolls, and the language they're written in is very hard to comprehend - it's written in only four different runes and a lot of it seems to be meaningless - but can you imagine if you'd be able to write on someone's scroll?" "These are the most capable in terms of a whole package. The 'most intelligent' is something else, but that's a more complicated answer..." says Shanti to Tamamo. "Servile number 51021, sir," says the servile, before scurrying off to locate bacon. Before he can return, however... "That is an excellent question. Why invite you all here? It's certainly not to simply be hospitable, as enjoyable as that has been so far. No," says Indigo to Maya. "I'll have an announcement here in just a bit..."
Lilian Rook	While Lilian hadn't actually asked about the ethics of the whole process, the information forthcoming is interesting nonetheless. Much more than espousing the superiority of the process over machines and familiars, it instantly tells her a lot about what the paradigm of Shaping is considered to be to these people. The local culture, the attitudes, capacities of it, how society has grown around it as a basis; a lot of those things are immediatey informed by the mention of that system. Sounding more interested than merely 'corporately engaged' now, Lilian lets a little bit of the dry, high-minded professionalism go. "Oh? That's interesting. So you wouldn't think of this work as an industry, or a special art, but as a 'craft'? A professional science, for professional artisans, and one where fully realized intelligence is a possible byproduct of work done too well. That's an attitude you don't typically see from either mage univerisites or robotics or AI companies." "Though, I suppose that also answers the question of how you're so confident you control for 'rampancy'. I see~" Tamamo wandering back has Lilian's attention again, of course, looking over her shoulder and saying "It's a little like a desktop PC, isn't it? But with a face. That's how I intuit it." Feeling more confident in her recognition of Kupot now, she shrugs her shoulders lightly in Tamamo's direction. "Where he's from . . . well I'm under the impression something undesirable happened to their Japan a while ago. The usuals I speak to insist that nobody goes to Japan. I would assume, graciously, that kind of thing would a form of fragmentary cultural homage. If the swords suit you, paying some sort of awkward respect to the nation it originated from is natural enough." And then, she hears Indigo. "Oh. I had suspected. They're talking about DNA. Maybe magical DNA, but it's the same concept. That's fascinating."
Linehart	Linehart's slow, red-scar stare fixates on the woman in wine-red. The music grows more intense - faster, deeper. Not heated battle. But it has the anger of a crashing classical piece full of cannons and drums, the heat of it. There is a physical motion from the enormous knight's gauntleted hand, a slow, forceful squeeze. Fire thrashes in his grasp. It isn't summoned, it isn't wielded - it's thrashing in his grasp, twisting, trying to escape and being held there by physical strength. It's magic alright, but it's probably a form of magic nobody else in the room has ever seen, because it doesn't exist outside Last Illusion, it doesn't exist outside Linehart specifically. It's unique animations for unique spells programmed in to make the Final Confrontation with the Dragon absolutely and staggeringly worth it for the player. It's something that time was spent on, and here, in this room, it's an impressive display. The flame does not dance in his hand. It struggles. It says something about his character, about his personality, about him. And more importantly it says something about his power. It says that he not only has power but he has power both magical and physical, a form of magic that none in the room who do not know him have seen and a form of power that can be expressed very, very physically. It's only the beginning of a casting animation but that makes it no less real, no less visceral, to see the firelight bathe the room in his palm. That that is all your student's life is worth to you is...disappointing. There is an air of menace in that phrasing, combined with that angered music. No more than that you have offered to those who have come on your invitation, to see your display, and then do your work for you. It displeases me to hear that you have so little regard for those who do you favors. It displeases me that you have naught to offer but to pawn upon others that which you will not do yourself. The flickering firelight in his hand crackles. He twists it sideways, and it transforms into vines, vines choked into existence and wrapped around his gauntlet. The vines twitch like tentacles trying to flee his grasp. It's another statement, too. A much, much more direct message. He holds the vines in his palm. They turn to wood in his grasp and crumble onto the floor as he lets them go. I advise you to reconsider your approach...lest the Multiverse feel you have nothing to offer and everything to take. Though I have been here but shortly I can already tell you that it is a poor path to survival in this existence.
Kupot	"Iaijutsu was passed down to the man I learned it from. He learned it from his forefathers." Kupot shrugs at Lilian, neither agreeing or disagreeing, "Kupo. Maybe there were once samurai in the ancient days." Street Samurai is probably a liscensed name.
Sumiko	"DNA, yes I'm aware of it," Mikoto says, calmly, "The building blocks of life, that build proteins that build genetic structures which program cells. I had figured if you could create life, that you would have already uncovered the secret to this first. Then again, I suppose mages learn things differently due to the properties of magic as opposed to having to learn by pure science." Mikoto raises her head when she hears about the announcement. "Well, do not me keep you here, there are things we can talk of after the announcement, and I imagine many more things." She hears Lilian, which causes her to sigh. Though this is interrupted by Linehart giving a demonstration. There is a pause, thinking about the recent encounter with Midway, and a small shake comes to her hand, which forces her hands to cross to keep herself in check.
Amelris Belthrone	"Thanks yooooou, 51021." Amelris replies back to the Servile, giving him a brief salute in thanks. They probably have bacon, right? Else they wouldn't have thought to make the... pig... human faced pigs he saw earliers. Right? Right. Then Linehart is displeased. Quite audibly. It's hard to miss. The carbuncle on his shoulder cowers for a bit as he turns back around to the tall armored man. Alright. He takes a few steps against the conversation, ready to jump in to give some verbal cover for now but ... will leave him express himself to his own words. The man, after all, don't like others speaking for him.
Tamamo	As uninvolved as she should be, Tamamo watches Linehart with some interest, if only that. She is unaware of exactly what he did before arriving here, though he's spoken the gist of it. More than anything else, she's watching, listening, and scanning over those written characters to learn what sort of person he is, a question every bit as interesting as the one that prompted her to arrive here at all. Unfortunately, for anyone wishing to see action and actionable acts, any rooted in these observations are unlikely to occur here. They must merely be filed away for later. To Kupot, she comments, "Oho, I have seen the 'iai' in use, perhaps. I would say that it is unfortunate to hear of the land meeting with disaster, but I have seen too many such, in recent days. I should almost think a world fortunate if most of its land still supported native life." That might be an exaggeration. "Old swordmasters did ever wish to see their legacy of skill survive, and so this much, at least, may be for the good." Shanti's answer is a little contradictory, but Tamamo isn't going to call her on it right now. Maybe she should go find the intelligence-specialized creations and ask them. After this 'announcement,' perhaps.
Maya	Maya thinks for a moment about enhancing existing life. That's pretty much what the chosen and other nations do on her world but likely not to the degree that is being suggested here. The talk about not creating people makes her raise an eyebrow for a moment and she has to wonder about it more information is needed she thinks. Still, there is something that exists. While she doesn't have the time to learn the details and the long learning process likely is also intended to weed out ill-suited candidate to use this school of magic. She looks to Mikoto smiling a bit, if she's not already properly introduced herself she'll do the same. She also nods. "A lot to learn here isn't there while on my world we do alter existing creatures or purpose breed them? There are long-standing taboos about heavy alteration of humans or the other species that live on my world. Given how messy that could get both on an ethical and a practical level."
Arkae Zellar	Linehart soaks up all the attention in the room. All other questions or conversations with the hosts here become... not less important, but put on the backburner. You may need to ask again later. "I- I didn't mean..." says Shanti. "If you want to... I mean, we require, I..." There's a lot of eyes on Shanti right now. "... I... okay." Linehart is very intimidating right now, and also more importantly he's shown he can do something interesting that's basically the same thing they're doing... somehow? And also, worse, some of what Linehart is saying is true. Shanti squares her shoulders under her robe. "This isn't going to be the answer you want to hear, but it's the best I can give right now." "You have a... you can stay and learn from us for now. I'll need to discuss this with my peers before I can extend permanent access, and if I can't arrange it, we'll work out some other reward as our gratitude." "Is... is this acceptable?" Her voice falters at the end.
Linehart	The magic dies. It is. The music fades to its more natural, neutral ominousness. The enormous black knight stares down at her, apparently satisfied. It is a wise decision. It will convince others to aid you in the future, that they might also be repaid with your knowledge, wisdom, and experience. Wise for your continued longevity, that is. Yeah, he's...he's atrociously bad at this. Still, after that, he gestures for her to return her attention to the others.
Arkae Zellar	"... Maybe we'll all be feeling a bit better once we get to the point of tonight," says Shaper Indigo, taking the floor. He doesn't seem as cowed by Linehart's demonstration as the others, or maybe he's just better at faking it. "We called you all here to get to know you, to be certain... but also to let you know us. To see what we're capable of, to answer your questions. And most importantly to show what we could offer you." "But words and demonstrations can only go so far. And so, I've arranged for a less... ephemereal token for you all." He claps his hands twice, and there's a general motion of the crowd away from the assembled elites... and from one of the side entrances to the room, making a clear path from it to each of them. And then, a procession. Seven serviles, each in different colored robes... robes that match, as closely as fantasy world textiles and dyes can match, to the primary colors in each person's outfit. They split up, and move to each person's side, standing at attention. "A gift. Yours to keep."
Kupot	As the servile starts moving towards Kupot, he holds up his hand. "No." He turns his insectile eyes on the Shaper. "No."
Linehart	Linehart looks down at the servile in his image. Red-eyed. Black. A marking down its back like smoke. It was made in his image. It was made to impress him, to show off what they could do, to make themselves look valuable, just as he warned them and just as they showed. Kupot moves to turn his away. Linehart says, Then I shall take his myself. Better that than to waste resources. He leaves unspoken that it will be offered the choice it has never had - to be free and choose its own path, with all the aid he can offer it. They don't need to know that. And while he cannot hide his anger, this is not anger - this is acceptance. They know not what they do. So he must show them one quiet step at a time, until they do.
Sumiko	Mikoto watches the line of creatures be brought out before them, and then they are guided to each of them. Interesting, Mikoto things as she regards hers with some curiosity. It would at least make a good object for the science teams. If she could get two somehow, she could even keep hers as a thing to do her chores around the house. There is an idea, she wonders if anyone else like Kupot would give up theirs for some reason. It's not like they're actually alive, just...golems or her phantasmal beasts. "An interesting gift," She says towards the Shaper. Of course, they could also be a spying tool. Yes, regardless she better take it by Concord science first.
Arcadia	The tension in the room shoots straight past 11 when Linehart starts flexing his Villain Cred to go with the Evil Knight Sphere. Tension makes the sphinx tense up as well, tail ceasing it's casual swish-swash behind her. Fortunately it de-escalates as fast as it escalated. For the most part. Wisely the guy in charge decides to get people's attention back on the real matter at hand for the night. Giving out gifts/free samples is a good way of doing that. In the form of one of their servant units. "Ooooo~!" Pause. "Does it know now to polish armor?" She looks to the Shapers for confirmation. "Please tell me it knows how to polish." I swear, it's for aerodynamics and not just because she wants to be sure to look really good going out onto the field so everyone focuses on her. Seriously!
Arkae Zellar	"It can learn. Have someone demonstrate, and order it to watch and repeat the actions," says Indigo to Arcadia. "And if Kupot doesn't want his, I think that's acceptable," he also says, to Linehart.
Lilian Rook	"Japanese sword styles are always like that. I suppose that's a part of eastern martial arts in general though, isn't it? About formalizing them, breaking into schools, refining them, competing, passing down the survivors." Lilian basically just muses in reaction to Tamamo's understanding of iaijutsu (which has to be superior to her own anyways). "Come to think of it, that's probably the east's equivalent of how the west did with magic, or vice versa." At that point though, Linehart has made himself the most interesting thing in the room. Directly, overtly, impressively intimidating, and staggeringly menacing in evil fashion, though taking a couple of steps away for Lilian is a safety precaution, given the professional investment in saving versus fear effects. At this point, she motions for one of the serviles to finally get a class, actually intently interested in this exchange. Part for the magic, which she openly watches, analyzes, tries to assess, and part for how the clear shot-caller amidst an exclusive straight-to-government college will take it. How people like this react to straightforward and credible threats is, in her opinion, always informative. She, in fact, whispers something to that effect to Tamamo. Also, "As I suspected. He appears to be the real article in the room. What on Earth is a bombastic bastard like that doing in a place of learning though? For saving a student's life, no less. Wanting to know things? Wanting to cooperate? Provide aid? Soak up 'wisdom'?" She gets her own Servile then. It's not quite what she expected. But then, yet another facet, as Lilian puts on a superlatively trained 'face' for receiving exotic, foreign magely gifts; ones that don't hold an immediately obvious, traditional value, and may even appear repugnant, but which one can be reasonably sure have a high, intangible cultural value attached. "Oh my. How quickly did you prepare these? Since we arrived? That'd be quite an impressive score." she says, snapping her fingers to draw hers over. "I'll see what I can find to do with it. You said they fall short of your ethics' board's stance on human intelligence, right?" But still, she can't just quite sit on the theatrics and ignore Linehart so long as it all resolved without a brawl. "Seriously, though, what was your purpose for coming here? I shouldn't need to spell out why it seems 'disjointed' that someone of your cast and temperament was invited for charitable works and wants to see some kind of thriving Multiversal trade of knowledge." She has the wine to sip pretty much for this occasion. "And what's that about unveiled threats about arbitrary Multiversal forces showing up to destroy whoever doesn't get with the program? Is that your personal intent or not?"
Arcadia	Arcadia claps her handpaws together. "Excellent!" About time she got a 'treasure' of her own. The Argoxandrian magitechnicians will probably be glad to not have to deal with that menial maintenance task, too. It having a purpose will keep anyone from getting too upset about it.
Amelris Belthrone	Amelris looks at the serviles, the one that's been dressed up like a Red Mage. A surprisingly accurate rendition, at that. This is... well, this is a bit spooky of a gift with what he knows but turning this away... well, that probably wouldn't help. This WOULD be a very good time to learn more about them, actually. Could be gathering intelligence, they don't know just what IS their intentions on this. Perhaps it IS geniune on this front. "Very well!" The Red Mage declares, nodding at the servile walking up next to him, clasping his gloved hands together. "May this gift mark the begining of a good start between your world and the Multiverse at large. Hopefully, mutual understanding might follow between us. I AM impressed at the custom work you've made on their clothing. You seemingly knew quite enough about us to make this interesting attentive little detail." He spends some time observing the Servile, the Carbuncle leaping from his shoulder to the Servile's own, giving it a few tentative sniffs. He looks over to Lilian, giving a shrug. "I'm pretty sure he meant what he meant to say. He wants to learn, he helped one of their numbers and now he's interested." Amelris leans back drinking a bit of his glass. "Look beyond his undoubtedly intimidating tone to what he said. There IS some out there that would be far more interested to take rather than engage. He did not say he was one of them." He shrugs. "But what do I know."
Maya	Maya was expecting to learn a bit about this society and culture. Which she had also to talk a bit about magic and the like. She's no magical sch9oalr but this sort of thing does interest her. Maya had not expected something like this. She gets the intention of the gift, she does not suspect any true malice behind it. Given how long she's been travelling the multiverse but there are thoughts that go through her mind they could have some observation mechanism. There is also the matter of the political ramifications of refusing such a gift or even accepting them. Also memories of dealing with the slave trade back on her homeworld also come to mind as well. This is quite uncomfortable, to say the least. Then Linehart speaks up it looks like it might be trouble, thankfully that does not seem to be the case. Once Maya would have snapped violently at this, however, if it's what it says on the tin? It would make it little different than workbots that her own people use for dangerous labour in the city-state's smelter and refinery. Also, the Paladins may wish to get a look at it. Maya puts on her best polite face. "Thank you for such a generous gift and I will try to put it to good use."
Linehart	Amelris speaks on his behalf, as asked. He keeps the truth from Lilian as Linehart considers what to say from his own mouth. It...bothers him, to let Amelris speak for him, but in this case, he must swallow that distaste, that displeasure, because there is a cause that he cannot let go by, a thing that to waste with his selfishness would be far more dishonorable than letting another speak on his behalf. The cross-scar visor does not flicker. The music remains steady. It is not a lie. He saw them. He was interested. He was given a favor. It is a truth. It is not the whole of the truth but it is enough of the truth. Finally, he lowers his head in acknowledgment. I have no interest in discarding a potential contact. I have no interest in discarding a chance for learning, enlightenment, and advancement. I am certain you would agree, my lady. Knowledge is power. And power is valuable. It is true what I said. I saw the student in peril upon the road and witnessed his magics, and found it intriguing. I went to aid him and when he offered me repayment I chose to take it. Little wonder that I should be displeased by an invitation and a favor turned to doing another's deeds. He would do those deeds for free, normally. But not here. Not with this chance. And little wonder that I should take an interest in such a power as this. The Holy Healer has made very plain what sort of man I am. I have made very plain what sort of man I am. I do not believe I had the honor of learning your name, my lady. There's a pause. Would you do me that kindness? Only Overly Just Knights and Very Evil Villains talk like that.
Tamamo	Tamamo does look interested in the servile brought before her, but not so much impressed. She neither accepts nor denies it immediately, only so as to not give away her thoughts and aims. A fan, pulled from her sleeve, unfolds to partially hide her face. In truth, she has no need for this. Wherever she goes, there are either no shortage of servants, or there is such a surplus of danger that only one of those dull brutes would be usefully engaged. But there's no need to advertise that, and no need to refuse a gift. Glancing sidelong, she makes some silent guesses as to what might result. "I shall, for my own part, graciously accept this gift." That she doesn't immediately get onboard with ordering the blue-clad creation has less to do with any distaste for ordering people about and more to do with a distrust for exactly what she's dealing with. It's certainly an unfamiliar type of magic. She's not even sure that the practitioners know what they're doing, but that might have something to do with their recently demonstrated unpreparedness for serious situations. Yes, all in all, it's concerning, but there's not enough information to draw any reliable conclusions. She lets Kupot's refusal pass without comment, along with the acceptance by Amelris and Arcadia, only turning her questioning toward Linehart, after he requests that unclaimed charge. "As I think this the first time we have met, as such, know that I am Tamamo no Mae. Of yourself, I have heard. And so, might I ask, sir Linehart, as to what purpose you will put these two?" It's an unfair question, as she's not offering anything herself, but he does seem awfully expressive for a man in full armor, so she expects she'll still have some kind of answer.
Arkae Zellar	The serviles go where they're told and do what they're told. Those that experiment find that they can follow simple multi-part orders right off the bat... Others, they seem capable of learning, with either someone to mirror or enough trial and error to figure out what the person asking is actually wanting. They don't seem to be eager to serve, or reluctant, or... well, anything. They're just there. They just sort of exist, do tasks, eat enough calories to survive, and then find somewhere to sleep. The Shapers, for the most part, settle back down into the social states they were in before Linehart's declarations. There's food, there's some entertainment (the demonstration's still happening in the back of the room)... it's on the whole a nice time, assuming you don't have any ethical concerns sitting in the back of your mind.
Linehart	Linehart stares at Tamamo for a long moment. Then, he dips his head forward. They will find ample and varied purpose by my hand. The same kind of villainous answer he's given everything else. It sounds threatening as hell, it sounds like he's going to work them till they die, like he's going to exploit them to the fullest. What it sounds like couldn't be further from the truth but the lack of tone in text...well. He is a hard one to read, even if he has to wear his emotions on his sleeve. Fortunately, he's just not angry right now. He's actually in a rather good mood, by his music - it's still kind of ominous but it's an upbeat kind of ominous, like, it's shifted a few octaves up and it could be a town theme or something. Because he is. Because he's managed to take a step closer to more than one thing dear to his heart.
Amelris Belthrone	"By the way, hey," The Miqo'te says, beaming wide at Tamamo, lifting his drink in a greeting. "Amelris Belthrone. Wonderful to meet you."
Arcadia	Arcadia isn't going to take off her armor in public, that'd be rude and indecent. So polishing lessons will have to wait until she takes it home. Instead she asks the servile to get her a snack from the tables, which it does so with little issue. That seems to be 'programmed' into the creatures and is simple enough. Yep, she's definately going to enjoy this.
Tamamo	Tamamo takes Linehart's declaration in stride, examining the particular words. Yes, there are all sorts of possible meanings, and when all you have is text, you might just put in the meaning that makes the most sense to you. Whatever she concludes, she makes no further issue of it, saying only, "I see." Her own tone is calm, apparently satisfied, but her own expressiveness is undoubtedly well controlled, even purposeful, to an extent, should she have any reason to be. To be polite is enough of a reason for many things. Her smile to Amelris, a previously unknown figure for her, likely falls under that category, but it's a beautiful smile, regardless. "A pleasure to meet you. Mr. Belthrone, is it?" Something's a trace familiar. Oh, yes, that warrior, from the time with the Onyx Witch. That makes for the second miqo'te she's seen, and the first properly met, but calling attention to that sort of thing feels less polite.
Lilian Rook	"A general word of advice." Lilian says without looking, placing her empty glass back on a serving tray. "Whenever someone says 'what do I know?', it's implicitly followed by 'a lot less than I think'." "The looming threat of the Multiverse at large, full of unspoken bogeymen who'll come to take your women if you don't form the proper alliances 'with us' 'right now' is something I've heard before. From far less intelligent people, mind you. It's why I've dignified it with asking. Now let him answer it. I've heard he dislikes other people 'speaking for him'." She stares at Linehart, arms folded, very intently. And yet, she doesn't seem entirely satisfied with his explanation either. Her fingers ripple tap on the inside of her arm slowly. "Certainly I've heard plenty about you from Shyra. Almost all of it would contradict 'merely being interested in learning'. That's as vague as it gets, next to 'wanting to see things' and 'gaining power'. Why should you take interest in a power like this? Creating life? Bespoke, servile life? Isn't your role the evil knight? Is it that you need new monsters and haven't the power to make them?" The last part sounds cuttingly incredulous. "Dame Commander Lilian Isabelle Rook." she offers the stiff, formal title, without particular deference. There's such a radiating sense that she is intensely suspicious of his interaction between Shanti and Amelris right now. The eyes of a school Heather who never misses even the slightest behaviour of underclassmen misbehaving, getting in the way, or trying to find something. That, and something . . . else. Still, she hasn't pushed it to a j'accuse. At least yet. Even so, every time she speaks, there is a quality to it that is at once ashaming and anxiety-inducing, past the point that it should normally be. Words that cut and probe much deeper than they quite should.
Amelris Belthrone	"Oh, I'll be sure to take your kind advice, then. I /am/ still getting used to how one speak in the Multiverse, nuances changes from places to place. Thanks you!" Belthrone answers, downing the rest of his drink to let Linehart speak for himself on this particular instance, refocusing his attention at Tamamo. "That's correct. If we are to apparently use full titles, as per Dame's example, it is Crimson Duelist. I am quite personally interested to know what sort of other magic they are capable of, or if it is limited to the creation of Life as demonstrated." THIS Miqo'te is pretty different than the one she saw at the Onyx Witch debacle, at least.
Linehart	The eyes of a Heather meet her own. Past the red-cross gaze is her reflection in that shadow, in that midnight-black mirror. He's not just the Mirror Knight because of his power over them, after all. Looking into that armor is the abyss taking your shape and looking back at you. Obviously the original sprite couldn't've been nearly so detailed. But that's what they'd dreamed up, those men whose dream was killed by brutal reality. A frightening mirror of an armor with no face, that you would never know he was once a hero until you put the clues together. And the one problem with shaming Linehart, the one problem that Lilian could not have anticipated - though she is forcing him very much on the back foot, forcing him into territory in which he is much poorer than any other - is that no one can shame him as fiercely as he already shames himself each day. I do much mislike having others speak for me. Linehart says finally, That he is not wrong does not mean I do not mislike it. It simply means that he speaks true. I would not permit another to speak a falsehood from my lips. I shall remember that name. I am Linehart, the Mirror Knight. My Sphere is Evil Knight. I am well aware that you know my name already, but introductions have a proper order to them, would you not agree? Another bout of silence before he speaks again. It is a useful threat to those who know no better. Those words are focused only on Lilian, and so they only appear to her - a whisper, or a private radio, just...visual. Nobody else can even see the text box. So he can do that much. The weight of the Multiverse holds no threat - indeed, trying to force the hand of these people who know naught but squabbling is a fool's errand - but they need not know that, need they? There is a sense of amusement as his music rises another octave and gets a little bit fast-then-slow, the same underlying notes like a wave rising and falling. His words return to the general now. As for my purpose behind that display it is indeed a simple one. A debt must be repaid. Linehart waves his gauntleted hand. They owed me a debt. I do not need wealth. I do not need servants. I do not need favors. What they have to offer me is knowledge and so I would have knowledge to level what I am owed, what I was offered. What I do with that knowledge I shall decide when the time comes. For now it is but a useful tool to add to an already-expansive list, and the only thing this place has to offer the Mirror Knight that he finds of any true worth. Parlor tricks and slaves do not interest me. Political pull does not interest me. Does that answer the question to your satisfaction, my lady?
Lilian Rook	Given the inherent weirdness of holding a conversation like this, Lilian spents a length of time just tapping through text displays, in the fashion of someone who reads a lot faster than the game designer set as the bar to cater to, and doesn't like waiting. She doesn't look particularly convinced, but then she's quite probably the type of person who doesn't allow herself to look convinced until it's useful. "You're awfully generous, to accept repayment in something you barely have a use for, in lieu of nothing at all." she says. "It isn't very evil to save a student's life. But then it wouldn't be very knightly to refuse gratitude and wander off." There's at least something or other that must have been dropped in all that text to leave her just shy of calling him. Something that also hasn't changed her hard stare to the way she'd look at an idiot or confused and self-contradictory 'idealist' --which way is preferable here is debatable. "And it certainly is awfully . . ." Tap tap tap. ". . . I suppose it doesn't matter right now. It's already no wonder the unwashed masses can't seem to figure you out in the least, after all their exposure." There's a weird, cold glint of understanding between breaths. Not understanding 'his game' here, but something else. Almost rehearsed, she says, "Only that which is wrought by a man is a man's to give. And, thou shalt not deny what they hath earned; man is not to stay eternally similar." And then she breaks off that pressure pretty abruptly. Turning around Tamamo again, she engages her thoughts with a conversationally semi-private-toned, "I assume it's like when an emperor receives a present of an elephant or lion or that kind of thing. Just more budget, since it's a college and not an allied king and all."