It's been a long time in coming, but schedules were finally aligned and agreed on, and the evening finds Xander's presence formally requested at the master's tower. Umeko and Nawar were ushered to prominent seats, and apparently attendance isn't exclusive to the Fire specialists because the two are greeted cheerfully by Ren and Carla, both wearing slightly more formal mages robes of bright aqua-green. Xander is led to the same entrance and antechamber he'd gone through for his test, by the jupani apprentice who assisted him last time. The boy wags, the back of his hand-me-down robes swishing. "They'll announce you soon, sir. Gosh, isn't this exciting?"
"Nerve-wracking," Xander admits, adjusting his posture again under his formal attire. "I hope someone else doesn't try to blow things up this time."
The boy shakes his head vigorously, ears flopping with it, and one is turned inside out when he stops. He ignores it in his enthusiasm. "Don't worry, sir! I've been a page for a few of these now. There's practically almost a very little chance something will blow up this time!"
"Well, the Tests aren't supposed to end duels either, and miss crazypants must have had help," Xander mutters, ears perked as he waits for his introduction.
Again, a loud, clear, and familiar voice echoes from behind the door. "Take your seats, please. Sphere of Fire Grandmaster Sharif of the Emirate, Caroban Senior Instructor, Professor, has received and weighed the claim to the title of master by Mage Xander Lightfoot, Journeyman of the Sphere of Fire. We present Mage Lightfoot." The sandstone door slabs swing apart, letting the light of the circular chamber in. This time, however, there is no tower standing in the middle of the wide 'arena'. At the far end, the somewhat corpulent form of Sharif occupies the highest seat over the edge of the arena floor. There are a smattering of people gathered in the upper tiers of the risers, but at the edges of the ring sit eleven other prominent mages, each in a robe of a different color. There are a few mages standing in the arena itself. Two of them are the ones that tested Xander, the old cervani Von Kriegler, and the impossible to guess the age of aelfin Sugarspark, along with another mage, a skeek in dark, autu
autumn orange.
What looks like a small rock bounces and rolls around the skeek's feet, but it doesn't make much noise and he pays it no mind.
Trying to keep calm, Xander bows to the senior mages, and searches the crowd for Umeko and Nawar and the others.
"This is far more dramatic than my education ever was. Formal educations did not have much grandeur to them. Promotions of rank were expected and only failure was called out," Umeko remarks quietly to Carla and Ren. "And as for my martial lessons at the hands of Master Longtooth ... his idea of rewarding a rank was to slap the back of your head and say 'Congratulations, you don't stink as bad as you used to.'" She grows quiet, though, when Xander looks in her direction. She nods approvingly towards him.
Nawar waves from next to Umeko, proud of her big brother (even if she's looks nervous after what happened last time in the arena).
Up in the stadium rows, Carla lifts a hand for a short, quick little wave and a chisel-toothed smile. Ren stifles a giggle at Umeko.
Xander smiles back, and then goes serious again as he faces Master Sharif.
Sharif's thick voice carries out over the arena floor. "There he is! Come on over here, my boy!" A much smaller and sleeker khatta at his elbow clears her throat, and Sharif says, "Oh, oh yes, of course. Ahem. I, Grandmaster Sharif, Sphere of Fire, something something, bid you step forth before your peers. The test was administered by Master Von Kriegler, Senior Instructor and Professor, and Master Sugarspark, Senior Instructor and Docent. Professor! Professor. See, I remembered."
This.. seems to relax Xander, actually. He saunters forward, a little less concerned about sticking to high formality.
"Hm, I think I like this Sharif," Umeko remarks quietly, "He does not take things entirely seriously. A good trait, one I painfully lack at times."
"He is of high enough status to get away with it," Nawar whispers. Or rather uses her normal level of volume; it just sounds whispery.
Von Kriegler folds his hands behind his back, inclining his head slightly, though it might just be the weight of his antlers. "The testing was somewhat... unconventional. The criteria of the test were not entirely met, but due to circumstances beyond the claimant's control. I submit that in dealing with the unexpected interference in the testing, Mage Lightfoot demonstrated power meeting or exceeding the test's criteria. I, Von Kriegler, present this on the journeyman's behalf on my authority as examiner, and vouch for him on my status as peer."
Xander stands up a little straighter from the praise, and turns towards Mage Sugarspark.
"I am quite impressed. Your brother has managed to not say anything foolish in public," Umeko remarks quietly to Nawar. "Perhaps he has truly grown..."
"He hasn't said anything yet," Nawar points out, and pats Umeko's elbow. "Do not give up on him being a goofball so easily, my lady."
Sugarspark speaks up afterward, the short aelfin's voice high and piping. "In dealing with the threat and challenge imposed upon him during the test, Mage Lightfoot did not meet the terms of the test. However, it is my belief that control in the alteration and direction of his two held spells demonstrated skill befitting the title. I can attest that Mage Lightfoot was given NO outside assistance, from me, Master Von Kriegler, or Grandmaster Sharif, and submit that Mage Lightfoot has met or exceeded the test's criteria in control. I, Sugarspark, present this on the journeyman's behalf on my authority as examiner, and vouch for him on my status as peer."
Now, Xander isn't the sort to get swelled head.. but then, he doesn't often get complimented on not screwing up. He really does feel a bit light-headed from it all, since he doesn't have a spell to focus on as a distraction. "Thank you," he whispers to his two examiners.
The cervani nods almost imperceptibly, and the aelfin indulges in a little smile, the corners of her eyes crinkling a little and all four ears perking up. Sharif slaps his chubby hands together with a single loud clap. "Very well! The Sphere of Fire has accepted the claim of one of our own! The claim is put to the Council of Caroban." The eleven mages seated around the ring all stand, as does Sharif, with some effort.
Now Xander feels like his head is full of lead. Serious lead! He stands straight and formal when the Council stands up.
Umeko remains quiet now, her hands folded in her lap. She nods once, approving of the formality of the proceedings.
An inky black naga that Xander's seen a few times, evidently the Dean of Shadow, lifts her upper half a bit higher and says, "The Sphere of Shadow recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
A pale white-haired human man next to her, that Xander recognises as Cirrus, the Dean of Air and the current magister for Caroban, says, "The Sphere of Air recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
The Lapi's mind races. Who has he offended? He doesn't think any of the other Spheres would have an issue with him... But he does have a lot of friends who are fond of jokes..
Next to Cirrus stands the Dean of Water, a shelled Shiga who is apparently nonplussed about vouching for his opposing element, says "The Sphere of Water recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
"The Sphere of Light recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
"The Sphere of Earth recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
"The Sphere of Life recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
"The Sphere of Illusion recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
"The Sphere of Chaos recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
"The Sphere of Dream recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
"The Sphere of Spirit recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
Xander blinks. They actually got Dean Fyiara to stand up...
"The Sphere of Mind recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
And lastly Sharif himself, who grins. "The Sphere of Fire recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
Cirrus, who must be holding the current leadership role in Caroban's rotation, says "The Council is decided. Xander Lightfoot is awarded the status of Master of Fire, and is forthwith accorded the rights and priveleges thereof."
The Lapi bows deeply to the assembled Deans, trying not to pass out as he does so, since he'd been holding his breath the whole time. He finally breaths in, and stands up straight again. "I am honored to serve Caroban and the Guild, which have given me a direction and purpose," he recites.
"I thought it was I who gave you purpose. Or ... at least scared you into doing something," Umeko mutters to herself, expression slightly bemused, "And I will feel less guilt now asking you to do dangerous things. In fact, you should do more of them, as befits your title."
Sugarspark steps forward. "Your ring please," she says, holding her palm out. Von Kriegler stands on the opposite side from her, murmuring "Congratulations" as he affixes a small golden braid to the neck and shoulder of Xander's formal robes.
Xander seems to hesitate before handing over his Journeyman ring.
The aelfin curls her fingers in for a moment, and in a less officious voice says, "Come, come.. I promise we're giving it back."
"Of course," Xander says with a slight, nervous chuckle as he hands it over.
Sugarspark turns to the skeek, coveniently not much taller than she is, who holds his hands out but doesn't actually touch the ring, instead dropping into the aelfin's hand a tiny nugget of gold and an even smaller one of platinum, along with something sparkly. He furrows his brow in concentration, and the rock at his feet seems to suddenly crumble into dust and disappear. The band of the ring seems to melt slightly, but the two nuggets and the brief sparkle merge with the metal, and a twist of platinum appears, spiralling around the outside of it. The setting in the center widens, and the ruby sinks in, then emerges again slightly but noticeably larger. Sugarspark, who'd been chewing her lip while this was happening in her own hand, looks all too glad to offer Xander his ring back.
Xander gapes at the metal magic, and seems more inclined to hold the ring in his hand and study it before realizing that people are watching and sliding it onto his finger. Then he holds it up for everyone to see, grinning like a fool.
Umeko lifts her hands form her lap and claps them lightly, retaining some form of dignity by trying to not seem overly emotional over the whole experience. "It would have been simpler to just give him a new ring ... but I suppose that flourish is important in this ceremony," she thinks.
Applause, whistling, and a few fireworks erupt from the risers from Xander's fellow fire adherants, and there's polite clapping from everyone else as well. The eleven deans have begun leaving their spots, and Sharif announces, "This ceremony is concluded! Those of you with a mind to, please stay for the banquet in Master Lightfoot's honor. Or don't. More for me. Haha! The doors of the Master's Tower will be closing at midnight tonight. Please check the cloak room for anything you've left before departing." The side entrances of the arena all swing open, and cloth covered carts are wheeled out by a number of the island's chefs, accompanied by musicians, and students who volunteered to tote furniture for free food. There's only a bit of chaos in getting it all arranged, but the formality seems to have more or less drained from the room.
Xander is still a little wobbly. A feast? In his honor? "Nobody's ever thrown me a real party before," he says in wonder.
Ren reaches over to take hold of Umeko's arm, giving her a gentle tug and a grin. "Let's go down and congratulate him!"
"I wonder if there will be carrot cake," Nawar wonders.
Carla stoops down a little to smile at Nawar. "I'm sure there will be. Candied pala and xocolatl pudding too, I bet!"
Umeko's lips draw back into a smile. "Well, I suppose we can permit him this moment of feeling grand," the kiriga concedes to Ren as she rises. "He will need the self confidence later when dealing with certain people."
"Ooooo," the coney goes at the mention of pala fruit and pudding. Mages appreciate their sweets, which meets with the girl's approval.
Ren stands up as well, straightening her robes out carefully and curling the silver tail protruding from them behind her. "Really? I would have thought master mages were always confident! It seems like such a lofty place, you know? What a lot of us are aiming for."
The newly minted Master Mage is currently dodging about and trying not to get run over by the table bearers.
The skreek takes Nawar's hand, leading the coney along, or being led by her, it's hard to tell which. "Ha, well I for one and glad these don't happen that often. I'll probably go up a dress size just from this buffet. Now I know why we wear robes all the time."
The scooting and setting is done remarkably quickly and efficiently.. it seems like there were already pre-set places for everything. It looks a little haphazard still, probably because they were using scorch marks on the floors and walls for landmarks, but eventually chairs are set, long rows of tables are laden with food, and milling mages converse amiably while the band in one corner strikes up a tune on lute and pipes.
"Much confidence is illusion, a gesture meant to instill trust and loyalty in those who are in lesser positions," Umeko says as the pair of kiriga make their way down through the crowd to greet Xander. "In reality, everyone has doubts and worries, no matter the rank. Well, except for the few who think a bit too highly of their own infallibility. A little self-doubt helps one always strive to improve. And with him, well ... I hope it doesn't inspire him to try to take down more canon-wielding airships by himself again."
Down on the arena floor, Xander spots his friends and hurries over. "Umeko," he says, smiling and looking at the Kiriga with big wet brown eyes. "Thank you. I may never have gotten here without you giving me a reason to push myself. Who knew barging in on your bath would lead to this.."
"Mm, normally such acts end in violence and the neutering of the intruder," Umeko admits and bobs her head, her expression seemingly serious. It doesn't last long, though, and the smile creeps across her face again. "Still, it has been quite the adventure. And now with your newfound status and increased pay ... you will be finding more adventure. I will feel less guilty about sending you on dangerous tasks..."
"So... wait, when did you ever send me on a dangerous task before?" Xander asks.
"You shared a tent with Anisa, did you not?" Umeko points out.
The Lapi rubs at his arm, where the memory of a bruise probably flared up. "Oh, yeah, that. She kicks.." he admits.
"And you had to climb down the throat of the monster-temple in the Beast-Lands," Umeko adds as she holds up her index finger to accentuate the point. "So, you have been eaten on my behalf, which does, I believe, count as a dangerous task."
Nawar and Carla bring up the rear, the latter already with half a cupcake in one paw. It doesn't stop her from leaning in and giving the freshly promoted mage a big and somewhat smooshy hug. "Congratulations, Xander! You looked great out here. That Von Kriegler guy looked all serious. I would've been a puffed up, nervous wreck. I hope I'm as together if I ever make it here."
"But you did it too," Xander points out. "And there wasn't a giant tongue..."
The Lapi squeaks from the hug and grins goofily again. "Well, depending on the cut of your robe, you may leave your examiners tongue-tied instead when it's your turn," he tells the Skreek.
"I spoke too soon, he is still silly," Umeko mock-sighs to Ren.
Nawar has no comment, since she's found the carrot cake.
The skeek giggles. "Oh, you." She gives Xander a peck on the cheek and lets him go, and Ren grins at Umeko, saying "Well, he can be as silly as he likes tonight, I think. He's earned it. What are you both going to do now, though?" The silvery apprentice turns to look over at the lapi. "You aren't going to teach, are you, Xander?"
"No, I'm going to stay on as Umeko's magical advisor," Xander notes. "I really don't have enough experience to teach yet - and need to perfect some of my improvised spells a bit too."
"I must return home and face the wrath of family. Well, at least my mother. When I say wrath, it is more likely guilt as she will cry out of happiness that I returned safe ... and I will feel guilty for all I have put her through," Umeko admits as she selects some small pastry from a nearby table for herself. "After spending some time there it will be back to the Beast Lands to establish my house ... then off to seek your sister, I think. It will all depend on what has transpired in my absence I may need to attend to."
"And I'll be there to defend you against all the unwanted suitors that are sure to show up because of your fame," Xander promises.
"I expect few of those," Umeko notes, "As the last one who pursued me ... died."
"You are worth the risk though," Xander claims, and holds.. something bready in one hand, that someone must have passed him. He nibbles on it. "After all, your father can pick and choose from the cream of the crop now.."
"Mm. Perhaps I will not be staying long in Jadai, then," Umeko admits, "I still have no desire to become a wife of anyone."
"True.. and it's not like you'll find someone who appreciates you as much as I do," Xander claims, puffing up a bit. "I balance your scales, as it were, instead of weighing them down.."
Nawar watches Umeko closely, to see how she reacts to that.
"You have no scales," Umeko points out, then swallows her pastry practically whole. "But I must concede your point about appreciate, I am not sure that any kiriga male would appreciate me in quite the same way as you do. Of course seeing if you do receive any challenges for your position as my advisor may also be ... moderately entertaining. I suppose how you react to being introduced to my father will be telling of how you would react to a formal challenge."
The conversation is briefly interrupted when Dean Cirrus interjects, the pallid human dipping forward a little. "Apologies.. I just wanted to offer my congratulations to Master Lightfoot. The Collegia's numbers aren't what they used to be. Any addition to the upper eschelons now means much more than it ever did. Master Lightfoot, we are glad to have you."
"Oh.." Xander says, deflating a bit. "Formal challenges.. uh.. are they martial, or do they involve poetry?" he asks.
"No apologies necessary honored Dean," Umeko tells the pale human as she steps back and to the side to make it easier for him to address Xander. "Our discussions are of no true import in comparison."
Bows to the human. "I was surprised by the turn-out for this, to be honest," he admits. "But I suppose it's a good excuse to have a morale-boosting party at least!"
The dean folds his hands into his robes, politely smiling and inclining his head toward Umeko, and then nodding at Xander. "Well, it was always a milestone before, but now that it's rarer it's ever more worthwhile to take note. Stop by the magister's office later, I'll give you a key to the Master's Tower and fill you in on some of the more choice contracts that have been submitted to us. Ah, no offense to Lady Tsuguri, we won't impose on your current arrangement. Even if you're already on retainer, I can add you to the file."
"Oh, of course Dean Cirrus!" Xander agrees. The Master's Tower! He hasn't even heard rumors of what might be in there.
"No offense taken. My needs may be trivial when compared to other concerns," Umeko says as she bobs her head. "I would not wish to stand in the way of his career by preventing him from pursuing more important and higher profile tasks than an advisor to a Kiriga of minor note."
Cirrus leans back again. "Well, the choice lies with him now. He has the right to greater autonomy now, may take an apprentice if he wishes, and of course any requests for assistance with research will be considered, should he wish to add to his Sphere's base of knowledge. We can go over all that later. For now, please enjoy yourselves. If you'll excuse me.."
Xander is a bit dazed by all of the options before him, but focuses back on Umeko. "If I do any research, it'll probably be with the Burning Sands," he says quietly.
"I am sure that the ladies of Burning Sands will be willing to help you," Umeko concedes softly as she finds herself a glass of ... something. Might be punch. Might be something with enough alcohol to make her scales fall off. Who knows? She's brave enough to take a drink from it, anyway. "You could also research the origins of the odd orbs," she adds.
The dean of air moves on, and Carla glances after him, then looks back at Ren, nudging her. "See, this is part of why you come to these. You get to rub elbows with the high'n'mighty."
Xander chews on his lip at the latter suggestion. "That would be tricky," he notes. "I'd have to be a part of your group of scholars. First Ones stuff is beyond me though."
"I must admit all of this makes much of what I have seen, seem ... less significant," Umeko notes to Ren. "Mages have the power to change so much. The few places that I have affected ... pale in comparison to such abilities. It is a good and humbling reminder. Perhaps one day you too will be granted the title of Master and shine as one of the world's greatest Kiriga. Mmm, in fact I expect it of you."
"Right now, I aim to change some of this food," Xander declares, and then pauses. He shows his ring to Umeko and Ren, noting, "Gold and silver intertwined. This is the closest I'll ever come to having you and Umeko wrapped 'round my finger!" he jokes.
"I suppose that since this is his day, we will forgive him for such a silly thought, yes?" Umeko soon remarks to Ren and flashes a brief smile. "Mammals are a strange lot with stranger ideas."
Ren touches her fingertips together, the silver kiriga looking doubtful about her prospects as a master, but still, after a moment of glancing out at the arena, she nods briskly. "I'll do my best! I admire the great mages, but sometimes it's easy to forget that there are so few of us now." She does admire Xander's ring, though, the fiery ruby chased by gleaming ribbons of precious metal, and just hides a laugh behind her sleeve at both remark and rejoinder. "Yes, Nawar's going to make herself sick if you let her finish that cake."
Logfile from Envoy. (OOC) Log start: d:\logs\2011_02_19-xandersceremony.htmlIt's been a long time in coming, but schedules were finally aligned and agreed on, and the evening finds Xander's presence formally requested at the master's tower. Umeko and Nawar were ushered to prominent seats, and apparently attendance isn't exclusive to the Fire specialists because the two are greeted cheerfully by Ren and Carla, both wearing slightly more formal mages robes of bright aqua-green. Xander is led to the same entrance and antechamber he'd gone through for his test, by the jupani apprentice who assisted him last time. The boy wags, the back of his hand-me-down robes swishing. "They'll announce you soon, sir. Gosh, isn't this exciting?"
"Nerve-wracking," Xander admits, adjusting his posture again under his formal attire. "I hope someone else doesn't try to blow things up this time."
The boy shakes his head vigorously, ears flopping with it, and one is turned inside out when he stops. He ignores it in his enthusiasm. "Don't worry, sir! I've been a page for a few of these now. There's practically almost a very little chance something will blow up this time!"
"Well, the Tests aren't supposed to end duels either, and miss crazypants must have had help," Xander mutters, ears perked as he waits for his introduction.
Again, a loud, clear, and familiar voice echoes from behind the door. "Take your seats, please. Sphere of Fire Grandmaster Sharif of the Emirate, Caroban Senior Instructor, Professor, has received and weighed the claim to the title of master by Mage Xander Lightfoot, Journeyman of the Sphere of Fire. We present Mage Lightfoot." The sandstone door slabs swing apart, letting the light of the circular chamber in. This time, however, there is no tower standing in the middle of the wide 'arena'. At the far end, the somewhat corpulent form of Sharif occupies the highest seat over the edge of the arena floor. There are a smattering of people gathered in the upper tiers of the risers, but at the edges of the ring sit eleven other prominent mages, each in a robe of a different color. There are a few mages standing in the arena itself. Two of them are the ones that tested Xander, the old cervani Von Kriegler, and the impossible to guess the age of aelfin Sugarspark, along with another mage, a skeek in dark, autu
autumn orange.
What looks like a small rock bounces and rolls around the skeek's feet, but it doesn't make much noise and he pays it no mind.
Trying to keep calm, Xander bows to the senior mages, and searches the crowd for Umeko and Nawar and the others.
"This is far more dramatic than my education ever was. Formal educations did not have much grandeur to them. Promotions of rank were expected and only failure was called out," Umeko remarks quietly to Carla and Ren. "And as for my martial lessons at the hands of Master Longtooth ... his idea of rewarding a rank was to slap the back of your head and say 'Congratulations, you don't stink as bad as you used to.'" She grows quiet, though, when Xander looks in her direction. She nods approvingly towards him.
Nawar waves from next to Umeko, proud of her big brother (even if she's looks nervous after what happened last time in the arena).
Up in the stadium rows, Carla lifts a hand for a short, quick little wave and a chisel-toothed smile. Ren stifles a giggle at Umeko.
Xander smiles back, and then goes serious again as he faces Master Sharif.
Sharif's thick voice carries out over the arena floor. "There he is! Come on over here, my boy!" A much smaller and sleeker khatta at his elbow clears her throat, and Sharif says, "Oh, oh yes, of course. Ahem. I, Grandmaster Sharif, Sphere of Fire, something something, bid you step forth before your peers. The test was administered by Master Von Kriegler, Senior Instructor and Professor, and Master Sugarspark, Senior Instructor and Docent. Professor! Professor. See, I remembered."
This.. seems to relax Xander, actually. He saunters forward, a little less concerned about sticking to high formality.
"Hm, I think I like this Sharif," Umeko remarks quietly, "He does not take things entirely seriously. A good trait, one I painfully lack at times."
"He is of high enough status to get away with it," Nawar whispers. Or rather uses her normal level of volume; it just sounds whispery.
Von Kriegler folds his hands behind his back, inclining his head slightly, though it might just be the weight of his antlers. "The testing was somewhat... unconventional. The criteria of the test were not entirely met, but due to circumstances beyond the claimant's control. I submit that in dealing with the unexpected interference in the testing, Mage Lightfoot demonstrated power meeting or exceeding the test's criteria. I, Von Kriegler, present this on the journeyman's behalf on my authority as examiner, and vouch for him on my status as peer."
Xander stands up a little straighter from the praise, and turns towards Mage Sugarspark.
"I am quite impressed. Your brother has managed to not say anything foolish in public," Umeko remarks quietly to Nawar. "Perhaps he has truly grown..."
"He hasn't said anything yet," Nawar points out, and pats Umeko's elbow. "Do not give up on him being a goofball so easily, my lady."
Sugarspark speaks up afterward, the short aelfin's voice high and piping. "In dealing with the threat and challenge imposed upon him during the test, Mage Lightfoot did not meet the terms of the test. However, it is my belief that control in the alteration and direction of his two held spells demonstrated skill befitting the title. I can attest that Mage Lightfoot was given NO outside assistance, from me, Master Von Kriegler, or Grandmaster Sharif, and submit that Mage Lightfoot has met or exceeded the test's criteria in control. I, Sugarspark, present this on the journeyman's behalf on my authority as examiner, and vouch for him on my status as peer."
Now, Xander isn't the sort to get swelled head.. but then, he doesn't often get complimented on not screwing up. He really does feel a bit light-headed from it all, since he doesn't have a spell to focus on as a distraction. "Thank you," he whispers to his two examiners.
The cervani nods almost imperceptibly, and the aelfin indulges in a little smile, the corners of her eyes crinkling a little and all four ears perking up. Sharif slaps his chubby hands together with a single loud clap. "Very well! The Sphere of Fire has accepted the claim of one of our own! The claim is put to the Council of Caroban." The eleven mages seated around the ring all stand, as does Sharif, with some effort.
Now Xander feels like his head is full of lead. Serious lead! He stands straight and formal when the Council stands up.
Umeko remains quiet now, her hands folded in her lap. She nods once, approving of the formality of the proceedings.
An inky black naga that Xander's seen a few times, evidently the Dean of Shadow, lifts her upper half a bit higher and says, "The Sphere of Shadow recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
A pale white-haired human man next to her, that Xander recognises as Cirrus, the Dean of Air and the current magister for Caroban, says, "The Sphere of Air recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
The Lapi's mind races. Who has he offended? He doesn't think any of the other Spheres would have an issue with him... But he does have a lot of friends who are fond of jokes..
Next to Cirrus stands the Dean of Water, a shelled Shiga who is apparently nonplussed about vouching for his opposing element, says "The Sphere of Water recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
"The Sphere of Light recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
"The Sphere of Earth recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
"The Sphere of Life recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
"The Sphere of Illusion recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
"The Sphere of Chaos recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
"The Sphere of Dream recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
"The Sphere of Spirit recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
Xander blinks. They actually got Dean Fyiara to stand up...
"The Sphere of Mind recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
And lastly Sharif himself, who grins. "The Sphere of Fire recognizes Master Xander Lightfoot of Fire."
Cirrus, who must be holding the current leadership role in Caroban's rotation, says "The Council is decided. Xander Lightfoot is awarded the status of Master of Fire, and is forthwith accorded the rights and priveleges thereof."
The Lapi bows deeply to the assembled Deans, trying not to pass out as he does so, since he'd been holding his breath the whole time. He finally breaths in, and stands up straight again. "I am honored to serve Caroban and the Guild, which have given me a direction and purpose," he recites.
"I thought it was I who gave you purpose. Or ... at least scared you into doing something," Umeko mutters to herself, expression slightly bemused, "And I will feel less guilt now asking you to do dangerous things. In fact, you should do more of them, as befits your title."
Sugarspark steps forward. "Your ring please," she says, holding her palm out. Von Kriegler stands on the opposite side from her, murmuring "Congratulations" as he affixes a small golden braid to the neck and shoulder of Xander's formal robes.
Xander seems to hesitate before handing over his Journeyman ring.
The aelfin curls her fingers in for a moment, and in a less officious voice says, "Come, come.. I promise we're giving it back."
"Of course," Xander says with a slight, nervous chuckle as he hands it over.
Sugarspark turns to the skeek, coveniently not much taller than she is, who holds his hands out but doesn't actually touch the ring, instead dropping into the aelfin's hand a tiny nugget of gold and an even smaller one of platinum, along with something sparkly. He furrows his brow in concentration, and the rock at his feet seems to suddenly crumble into dust and disappear. The band of the ring seems to melt slightly, but the two nuggets and the brief sparkle merge with the metal, and a twist of platinum appears, spiralling around the outside of it. The setting in the center widens, and the ruby sinks in, then emerges again slightly but noticeably larger. Sugarspark, who'd been chewing her lip while this was happening in her own hand, looks all too glad to offer Xander his ring back.
Xander gapes at the metal magic, and seems more inclined to hold the ring in his hand and study it before realizing that people are watching and sliding it onto his finger. Then he holds it up for everyone to see, grinning like a fool.
Umeko lifts her hands form her lap and claps them lightly, retaining some form of dignity by trying to not seem overly emotional over the whole experience. "It would have been simpler to just give him a new ring ... but I suppose that flourish is important in this ceremony," she thinks.
Applause, whistling, and a few fireworks erupt from the risers from Xander's fellow fire adherants, and there's polite clapping from everyone else as well. The eleven deans have begun leaving their spots, and Sharif announces, "This ceremony is concluded! Those of you with a mind to, please stay for the banquet in Master Lightfoot's honor. Or don't. More for me. Haha! The doors of the Master's Tower will be closing at midnight tonight. Please check the cloak room for anything you've left before departing." The side entrances of the arena all swing open, and cloth covered carts are wheeled out by a number of the island's chefs, accompanied by musicians, and students who volunteered to tote furniture for free food. There's only a bit of chaos in getting it all arranged, but the formality seems to have more or less drained from the room.
Xander is still a little wobbly. A feast? In his honor? "Nobody's ever thrown me a real party before," he says in wonder.
Ren reaches over to take hold of Umeko's arm, giving her a gentle tug and a grin. "Let's go down and congratulate him!"
"I wonder if there will be carrot cake," Nawar wonders.
Carla stoops down a little to smile at Nawar. "I'm sure there will be. Candied pala and xocolatl pudding too, I bet!"
Umeko's lips draw back into a smile. "Well, I suppose we can permit him this moment of feeling grand," the kiriga concedes to Ren as she rises. "He will need the self confidence later when dealing with certain people."
"Ooooo," the coney goes at the mention of pala fruit and pudding. Mages appreciate their sweets, which meets with the girl's approval.
Ren stands up as well, straightening her robes out carefully and curling the silver tail protruding from them behind her. "Really? I would have thought master mages were always confident! It seems like such a lofty place, you know? What a lot of us are aiming for."
The newly minted Master Mage is currently dodging about and trying not to get run over by the table bearers.
The skreek takes Nawar's hand, leading the coney along, or being led by her, it's hard to tell which. "Ha, well I for one and glad these don't happen that often. I'll probably go up a dress size just from this buffet. Now I know why we wear robes all the time."
The scooting and setting is done remarkably quickly and efficiently.. it seems like there were already pre-set places for everything. It looks a little haphazard still, probably because they were using scorch marks on the floors and walls for landmarks, but eventually chairs are set, long rows of tables are laden with food, and milling mages converse amiably while the band in one corner strikes up a tune on lute and pipes.
"Much confidence is illusion, a gesture meant to instill trust and loyalty in those who are in lesser positions," Umeko says as the pair of kiriga make their way down through the crowd to greet Xander. "In reality, everyone has doubts and worries, no matter the rank. Well, except for the few who think a bit too highly of their own infallibility. A little self-doubt helps one always strive to improve. And with him, well ... I hope it doesn't inspire him to try to take down more canon-wielding airships by himself again."
Down on the arena floor, Xander spots his friends and hurries over. "Umeko," he says, smiling and looking at the Kiriga with big wet brown eyes. "Thank you. I may never have gotten here without you giving me a reason to push myself. Who knew barging in on your bath would lead to this.."
"Mm, normally such acts end in violence and the neutering of the intruder," Umeko admits and bobs her head, her expression seemingly serious. It doesn't last long, though, and the smile creeps across her face again. "Still, it has been quite the adventure. And now with your newfound status and increased pay ... you will be finding more adventure. I will feel less guilty about sending you on dangerous tasks..."
"So... wait, when did you ever send me on a dangerous task before?" Xander asks.
"You shared a tent with Anisa, did you not?" Umeko points out.
The Lapi rubs at his arm, where the memory of a bruise probably flared up. "Oh, yeah, that. She kicks.." he admits.
"And you had to climb down the throat of the monster-temple in the Beast-Lands," Umeko adds as she holds up her index finger to accentuate the point. "So, you have been eaten on my behalf, which does, I believe, count as a dangerous task."
Nawar and Carla bring up the rear, the latter already with half a cupcake in one paw. It doesn't stop her from leaning in and giving the freshly promoted mage a big and somewhat smooshy hug. "Congratulations, Xander! You looked great out here. That Von Kriegler guy looked all serious. I would've been a puffed up, nervous wreck. I hope I'm as together if I ever make it here."
"But you did it too," Xander points out. "And there wasn't a giant tongue..."
The Lapi squeaks from the hug and grins goofily again. "Well, depending on the cut of your robe, you may leave your examiners tongue-tied instead when it's your turn," he tells the Skreek.
"I spoke too soon, he is still silly," Umeko mock-sighs to Ren.
Nawar has no comment, since she's found the carrot cake.
The skeek giggles. "Oh, you." She gives Xander a peck on the cheek and lets him go, and Ren grins at Umeko, saying "Well, he can be as silly as he likes tonight, I think. He's earned it. What are you both going to do now, though?" The silvery apprentice turns to look over at the lapi. "You aren't going to teach, are you, Xander?"
"No, I'm going to stay on as Umeko's magical advisor," Xander notes. "I really don't have enough experience to teach yet - and need to perfect some of my improvised spells a bit too."
"I must return home and face the wrath of family. Well, at least my mother. When I say wrath, it is more likely guilt as she will cry out of happiness that I returned safe ... and I will feel guilty for all I have put her through," Umeko admits as she selects some small pastry from a nearby table for herself. "After spending some time there it will be back to the Beast Lands to establish my house ... then off to seek your sister, I think. It will all depend on what has transpired in my absence I may need to attend to."
"And I'll be there to defend you against all the unwanted suitors that are sure to show up because of your fame," Xander promises.
"I expect few of those," Umeko notes, "As the last one who pursued me ... died."
"You are worth the risk though," Xander claims, and holds.. something bready in one hand, that someone must have passed him. He nibbles on it. "After all, your father can pick and choose from the cream of the crop now.."
"Mm. Perhaps I will not be staying long in Jadai, then," Umeko admits, "I still have no desire to become a wife of anyone."
"True.. and it's not like you'll find someone who appreciates you as much as I do," Xander claims, puffing up a bit. "I balance your scales, as it were, instead of weighing them down.."
Nawar watches Umeko closely, to see how she reacts to that.
"You have no scales," Umeko points out, then swallows her pastry practically whole. "But I must concede your point about appreciate, I am not sure that any kiriga male would appreciate me in quite the same way as you do. Of course seeing if you do receive any challenges for your position as my advisor may also be ... moderately entertaining. I suppose how you react to being introduced to my father will be telling of how you would react to a formal challenge."
The conversation is briefly interrupted when Dean Cirrus interjects, the pallid human dipping forward a little. "Apologies.. I just wanted to offer my congratulations to Master Lightfoot. The Collegia's numbers aren't what they used to be. Any addition to the upper eschelons now means much more than it ever did. Master Lightfoot, we are glad to have you."
"Oh.." Xander says, deflating a bit. "Formal challenges.. uh.. are they martial, or do they involve poetry?" he asks.
"No apologies necessary honored Dean," Umeko tells the pale human as she steps back and to the side to make it easier for him to address Xander. "Our discussions are of no true import in comparison."
Bows to the human. "I was surprised by the turn-out for this, to be honest," he admits. "But I suppose it's a good excuse to have a morale-boosting party at least!"
The dean folds his hands into his robes, politely smiling and inclining his head toward Umeko, and then nodding at Xander. "Well, it was always a milestone before, but now that it's rarer it's ever more worthwhile to take note. Stop by the magister's office later, I'll give you a key to the Master's Tower and fill you in on some of the more choice contracts that have been submitted to us. Ah, no offense to Lady Tsuguri, we won't impose on your current arrangement. Even if you're already on retainer, I can add you to the file."
"Oh, of course Dean Cirrus!" Xander agrees. The Master's Tower! He hasn't even heard rumors of what might be in there.
"No offense taken. My needs may be trivial when compared to other concerns," Umeko says as she bobs her head. "I would not wish to stand in the way of his career by preventing him from pursuing more important and higher profile tasks than an advisor to a Kiriga of minor note."
Cirrus leans back again. "Well, the choice lies with him now. He has the right to greater autonomy now, may take an apprentice if he wishes, and of course any requests for assistance with research will be considered, should he wish to add to his Sphere's base of knowledge. We can go over all that later. For now, please enjoy yourselves. If you'll excuse me.."
Xander is a bit dazed by all of the options before him, but focuses back on Umeko. "If I do any research, it'll probably be with the Burning Sands," he says quietly.
"I am sure that the ladies of Burning Sands will be willing to help you," Umeko concedes softly as she finds herself a glass of ... something. Might be punch. Might be something with enough alcohol to make her scales fall off. Who knows? She's brave enough to take a drink from it, anyway. "You could also research the origins of the odd orbs," she adds.
The dean of air moves on, and Carla glances after him, then looks back at Ren, nudging her. "See, this is part of why you come to these. You get to rub elbows with the high'n'mighty."
Xander chews on his lip at the latter suggestion. "That would be tricky," he notes. "I'd have to be a part of your group of scholars. First Ones stuff is beyond me though."
"I must admit all of this makes much of what I have seen, seem ... less significant," Umeko notes to Ren. "Mages have the power to change so much. The few places that I have affected ... pale in comparison to such abilities. It is a good and humbling reminder. Perhaps one day you too will be granted the title of Master and shine as one of the world's greatest Kiriga. Mmm, in fact I expect it of you."
"Right now, I aim to change some of this food," Xander declares, and then pauses. He shows his ring to Umeko and Ren, noting, "Gold and silver intertwined. This is the closest I'll ever come to having you and Umeko wrapped 'round my finger!" he jokes.
"I suppose that since this is his day, we will forgive him for such a silly thought, yes?" Umeko soon remarks to Ren and flashes a brief smile. "Mammals are a strange lot with stranger ideas."
Ren touches her fingertips together, the silver kiriga looking doubtful about her prospects as a master, but still, after a moment of glancing out at the arena, she nods briskly. "I'll do my best! I admire the great mages, but sometimes it's easy to forget that there are so few of us now." She does admire Xander's ring, though, the fiery ruby chased by gleaming ribbons of precious metal, and just hides a laugh behind her sleeve at both remark and rejoinder. "Yes, Nawar's going to make herself sick if you let her finish that cake."