Ninjas, Highschool and Magic (and Candles)

[Lop]

Current Year
Earth (3.01)
Lower East Side, New York City

A dark, narrow alley rose up between two tall apartment buildings. The surrounding neighborhood was basked in a stark, orange sun-set. Small gardens hung from window ledges, and groups of people moved about the streets, keeping to themselves. Faint music drifted down from an open window.

A bright flash emitted from within the alley. Strange voices, speaking in discord, rose up like a river. Translucent, shining butterflies spilled forth from the alley entrance. They trailed up, then faded. Nobody along the sidewalks seemed to notice.

A man in his thirties and a dark, blue-wool trench-coat, stumbled out of the alley. A girl dressed in a long, blue-wool cloak followed, grasping his arm and steadying him. "Uncle!" she said, concern on her face.

The man held out his palm, gripping his forehead with his other. "I'm fine.." he muttered, stumbling again. The girl gripped his arm and helped him back up. A young couple walked around them on the sidewalk, pointedly ignoring the pair.

"are you sick?" The girl said, checking him over. "I don't understand Uncle Calebus, what's happening?"

"it's travel sickness," The man said, closing his eyes. "you should be experiencing it too..."

Concern remained on the girl's face. She helped him sit down on the sidewalk, then checked herself over. "I don't feel sick..." she said, feeling her forehead.

"good, good Yana" the man said, his face pale and sweaty. "just..just give me a minute,"

The girl, Yana, knelt down beside him, hugging her knees as the man caught his breath. When she was sure he wasn't worsening, Yana chanced a look around the street. The tall buildings were cast in shadows from the fading light. Dark pink clouds raced overhead, streaming towards the distance. Cars rumbled by the street, blaring loud music and the voices of podcasts. "it's so...empty," Yana said, looking at the sky. She glanced down at her wool coat. "and it feels empty too..."

Calebus opened his eyes, struggling to sit up straight. "okay," he said, holding his stomach. "I think I'm okay now,"

Yana got up, then helped Calebus to his feet. He brushed at his wool coat, then looked around. Yana joined him, watching as a group of young men and women passed loudly on the other side of the street. They laughed, pointing at something on one of their phones. "This is New York City, or New Amsterdam, or Conway Point, yes?" Yana said, turning to look up at Calebus.

"yeah," The man said, still studying the street. "They call it New York City here,"

"everything's small, and bleak," Yana said, her voice quiet. "and..."

"Empty, yes you mentioned that," Calebus said. He started down the sidewalk, motioning for the girl to follow. "C'mon, we've got to find Flinder. He should be around here, at least within a couple mile radius,"

Yana caught up to him, still glancing around the street. "Uncle?" she said.

"yes,"

"Why are there no sky lights?" Yana said, craning her neck up. "Or Phebe towers, or airships, or-"

Calebus suddenly turned on her, his expression serious. Yana stopped short, surprised. "Yana," He said, his voice urgent. "This is a dead world. There is no magic here. No chi, no sky lights, none of that. You have to be very careful here, for very different reasons than back home,"

Yana watched as Calebus turned back around and continued down the sidewalk. She remained where she was, confused. "What about Phebe towers!" She said, catching up to him. "And how can't there be an chi? Everyone has chi!"

"No mad ones either," Calebus said, scanning the sidewalks. "So no Phebe towers, or airships, or flying cities, or any of that," He stopped up short, narrowing his eyes at a man crossing the street. "And sure they have chi, they just can't use it, similar to how you can't," Yana's face fell. Calebus noticed, immediately regretting his words. "sorry...that's, not what I meant..it's not exactly like that.."

"I know," Yana said, quietly. Her hurt expression faded, quickly replaced by curiosity. "But, uncle! If there's no magic, how can you protect us?"

Calebus stopped staring at the man, realizing he wasn't who he was looking for. He continued down the street, prompting Yana to follow. "No magic means no magic," Calebus said. "For me and for them. And no-one causes trouble on a dead world. Demons have control here. Having said that, it's going to be up to you to protect us if anything attacks..."

"ME??" Yana said, gawking. "Why on all the earths are we here?? If they don't have magic and chi, how do they fight and do things!"

"The same way you do, just with more guns and bombs,"

Yana was more confused now than she was just a moment ago. "but..but, that's so..."

"It's different, and dangerous," Calebus said, gesturing for Yana to catch up. "But neither the Lady, the Marquis or the Doctor can track us here, and they can't send big groups after us either, or they'll draw the wrong sort of attention,"

Yana was contemplative, and worried. "that's...good...but I don't think I can protect us against guns and bombs!"

"We'll get you a gun, but we need to find Flinder first, so come on,"

Shaking her head, Yana followed Calebus as he made his way down the sidewalk. The pair walked down to the end of the street, then turned back around and walked back up it. Again and again Calebus and Yana traversed the street, always craning their neck.

"Are you sure you can't say what he looks like?" Yana said, after they reached the end for the fifth time. Calebus turned around and began walking back.

"I can't, really," He said, stopping by a streetlamp. The sun had almost disappeared entirely from the lower east side, and the strange, pink twilight had brought out an influx of pedestrians and cars. "It's been too long since I've seen him, and you wouldn't know him from anyone else here, besides maybe his height,"

Yana pointed up the street. "There's a tall guy,"

Calebus checked, then shook his head with a bemused smile. "No Yana, that's not him. There's a lot of people in this city, just like any other we've visited. We'll just have to keep walking up and down and hope we see him,"

The pair continued on, back and forth. Night tried to descend on the city, but the street lights and distant Manhattan skyscrapers kept it at bay. As they reached the end of the street for the umpteenth time, Yana's stomach growled. "Uncleee," She said, gripping it. "I'm hungry!"

"We have no money Yana," Calebus said, turning back around and leading her up the street. "We won't have anything that can be used in this world until we find Flinder,"

Yana groaned, then followed Calebus with staggered steps. "I...I might die from hunger," She said, putting a hand to her forehead. "I think I finally have the travel sickness..."

"The travel sickness only affects you right after you travel," Calebus said, coming to a stop and exhaling. "We'll do a couple more walks, then find someplace to sleep,"

Back and forth, back and forth, the man and the girl walked the street. At one point a woman came out of a corner grocery. She wore a bright floral dress, and held brown bags in her hand. "Excuse me!" She yelled, stalking after them in platform shoes. "I've seen you walking up and down several times now! This neighborhood doesn't tolerate people buying or selling heroin here!"

Confusion crossed Yana's face. "what's heroin?"

"We're sorry," Calebus said, holding up both of his palms. "We're just...looking for someone. A friend,"

The woman narrowed her eyes, looking his blue wool cloak up and down. "Well your 'friend' better pick you up soon, because if I see you loitering around too much longer I'm calling the police!"

Yana peered over the edge of the woman's grocery bag, staring at the produce that poked out from it. The woman noticed and clutched the bag to herself. "Of course," Calebus said, backing up and herding Yana with him. "We'll be on our way..."

Turning, Yana followed Calebus as the woman watched them. "she could have offered us something to eat..." Yana said, glancing back over her shoulder.

"Things are different here," Calebus muttered. "But we should get off these streets before she causes trouble for us,"

The two of them found an alley, which seemed devoid of anything save a dumpster and stacks of discarded pallets. A man already slept at the end of the alley, wrapped up in newspapers and a blanket. Calebus and Yana slid down against the brick wall near the entrance. Calebus peered out at the street, watching the pedestrians. Yana gathered up newspapers around her shoes.

"this is awful," She said, her expression defeated. She pressed at the newspaper covering her, taking note of its flimsiness.

"we just have to find Flinder," Calebus muttered, still staring out the alley.

Yana hugged herself, burying her face in her knees. "I want to go back home uncle," she said, her voice muffled.

"I know," Calebus said, his voice equally quiet. He continued to stare at the street.

"I miss mother..and father..."

"I know," Calebus said, closing his eyes tightly. He slowly opened them and patted Yana on the back. "It's going to be fine. You're going to be fine. We'll start a new life here," Calebus took a deep breath, as if he was convincing himself. "It will be fine..."

Calebus woke up to the sound of a heavy diesel truck rumbling by. He struggled upright, looking around. Memories of the last couple days floated back to him, and the man put his face in his hands. "shit,"

Yana yawned, then winced as she sat up. "ohh, my back. Not good, not good,"

"Musta dozed off," Calebus said, getting to his feet.

"uncleeee," Yana said, gripping her stomach as she leaned back against the brick. "I'm sooo hungry...."

Sighing, Calebus agreed with a nod. "Me too Yana. We'll find something,"

He managed to convince his niece to walk with him again. The two started off as they had the day before, walking up and down the sidewalk. Yana was quieter today, clearly struggling from hunger. Calebus did his best to remain alert and focused, despite his own pangs.

By the time noon rolled around, Calebus and Yana had returned to the alley. Now Calebus was solely concerned with food. Both he and Yana couldn't keep walking the street much longer.

"are you sure he's even around here," Yana said, gripping her stomach as she leaned against the alley. "What if he's not here anymore?"

"I tracked him before we traveled," Calebus said, watching a corner grocery store down the street.

"I thought you said you couldn't track people here!"

Calebus laughed, though it was a tired laugh. "The Doctor and the others certainly can't," He turned to her, giving a reassuring smile. "But you're uncle can,"

Yana smiled back. "yeahh, okay." She glanced out of the alley, then nodded towards something. "there's another tall guy,"

Calebus let out a laugh, glancing out. The laugh froze on his face, and he squinted. A tall man with a handlebar mustache and a sports blazer walked a small dog down the street. He wore aviator sunglasses, and whistled to himself as he walked. "that's..." Calebus began. "That's him...that's Flinder!" Calebus grabbed Yana's wrist and pulled her to her feet. "C'mon!"

The two of them ran out of the alley, Calebus waving wildly. "FLINDER!" He shouted across the street. A loud truck passed, blocking his vision. "Shit!". Calebus ran into the street, narrowly avoiding another car. It screeched to a halt, honking loudly. Calebus continued to weave around vehicles, waving his arms. "FLINDER!"

Another car honked, and the tall man paused. He turned, spotting Calebur and Yana jogging towards him. The man lowered his sunglasses, looking over the rim in shock. "Candle...," The man said, wonderment on his face. "Candle Man??" Calebus ran up on the sidewalk, coming to a stop in front of the man. He put his hands on his knees as he caught his breath. "Holy hell it is you!" The man said, slapping Calebus on the back. "Candleman! What are you doing here!"

Calebus held up a finger, then straightened up. The man's dog yipped, straining at the leash. "I need your help Flinder," Calebus said, his expression growing serious. "me and my niece, we need to get set up here,"

The smile slowly died on Flinder's face. "oh no," He said. "Candleman, what's wrong?"

Calebus glanced around the street. "Is there someplace else we could talk?"

Yana leaned down and scratched the small dog's ears. It continued to yip as it struggled to reach her. Her stomach growled, prompting Yana to place a hand to it. She held up her free hand to the tall man with sunglasses. "Hi, I'm Yana, do you have food?"

"yeah yeah," Flinder's said, giving her hand a distracted shake as he stared at Calebus. "Let's go to my place then,"

A strong breeze tugged at the man's sport's blazer as he turned down the sidewalk. Calebus and Yana followed him, passing groups of people going about their morning business. Not much was said until they reached a six-story apartment building wedged between several others. Flinders jogged up the steps, his small dog struggling to keep up. Calebus and Yana brought up the rear, waiting as Flinders unlocked the door and let them in.

The lobby was dingy, and faded. The building had clearly existed for some time, and no amount of paint could cover that. Flinder's picked up his dog and walked up creaky steps to the second level. Calebus and Yana followed. After walking down a hall, Flinder's stopped in front of his door and fiddled with his key in the lock. Yana took the opportunity to look up and down the hall.

"Uncle," she whispered. "There's no wards, or spirits,"

"Hm," Calebus said, agreeing. Flinder's managed to get the door open, then pushed it in. He swept inside. After sharing a look, Calebus and Yana entered as well.

"Don't mind the mess!" Flinders called as he walked into the apartment.

Calebus and Yana slowly followed. The apartment had wooden floors and white, faded walls from the previous century. Open windows looking out into the neighborhood dominated one end. Art, as well as wall-hanging, covered the other walls. There was furniture as well, but it was obscured by stacks of books and newspapers. They occupied every available space, piling up precariously towards the ceiling. Calebus and Yana navigated a thin path through the stacks, careful not to knock any over as they followed the sound of a small dog barking.

"this is a death-trap for that dog," Yana whispered. She stopped to look at the spines of one of the stacks. None of the book titles were familiar to her, and she moved on.

"So!" Flinder called, his voice echoing from another room. The sound of a microwave carried with it. Calebus and Yana emerged from the stacks into a dining space of sorts. It was cleared of books, and held a table and several chairs. Flanders emerged from a kitchen, holding a steaming plate of what looked like bread. "Why has the great Candleman fled to this Earth?"

He set the plate down on the table, beckoning for the man and girl to sit. "Well," Calebus said, watching Yana eagerly pull back a chair. "It's...complicated,"

Flinder got comfortable in a seat and opened his arms. "It always is friend, we don't end up here because we want to,"

Yana inhaled the steam rising from the bread. She looked at Flinder, who nodded she could dig in. Yana picked one up and took a huge bite. She chewed, then grew horrified. "HOT!" she said. "HOT!"

"Oh yeah," Flinder said, standing quickly. "Sorry, they call em' hot-pockets for a reason," The sound of the faucet drifted in, then Flinder returned with two glasses. Yana eagerly accepted one and drained it. "So," Flinder said, settling back in. "Candleman-"

"You can call me Calebus,"

Flinder looked surprised. "Calebus? Is that really your name?" Calebus nodded, and Flinder shook his head. "That won't do here, you'll have to shorten it to Caleb or something." He dismissed the thought with a gesture. "Anyways, tell me about this complicated situation of yours..."

Calebus's gaze flickered briefly to Yana. She was blowing on her hot-pocket, trying to cool it. "Yana's parents," Calebus began. This caused Yana to pause, and she met his gaze. "They got involved with some dangerous people. Something happened, though we're not sure what. Yana's parents...my...friends..," Calebus fell silent, and Yana slowly lowered her hot-pocket. "Well, they're gone now. We thought...maybe that would end it. But, they're still after Yana...for some reason.."

Flinder listened, his hand resting on the table. When Calebus finished, Flinder tapped a finger to the wood. "well..." he said. "Anyone who's too much for the Candleman..."

"It's the Lady of the Shroud, and the Marquis d'Gaul, as well as Doctor Paggilio,"

Flinder raised both eyebrows. "well, I certainly know those first two, though the doctor doesn't ring any bells..."

"Consider yourself lucky," Calebus said, taking a sip of his water. He reached forward and helped himself to a hotpocket. Yana still stared down at hers, though she took a contemplative bite.

"The Lady and the Marquis huh?" Flinder said, shaking his head. "Yes, I could see how that might be trouble,"

"That's why we came here," Calebus said, earnestly staring at Flinder. "To get away from their magic and power. You have to help us set up a life here Flinder, like you have for the others,"

"whoa whoa whoa," Flinder said, straightening up in his seat. He leaned forward, looking just as earnest. "Candleman, you have to understand, things are different here,"

"I know-"

"No," Flinder said, holding up a finger. "You think you know, but really, you don't know. This isn't a place you can just pop through like the other Earth's. Things are tense right now, especially for people who aren't proper citizens,"

Calebus listened, chewing on his hotpocket. He swallowed. "Well, can you get us everything? The papers? Jobs?"

"Like I said, things are different," Flinder said, a pained expression on his face. "I can set you up, sure, but all these things take money...lot's of money. It's everything, here, what without any magic," Flinder continued to look pained. "And...well, since you can't use any of your candles..."

"I understand," Calebus said. "I'm willing to work, both of us are,"

"Ha, no," Flinder said, pointing at Yana. "You're going to have to enroll her in school, if she's caught out here working, that will get you deported faster than anything,"

Calebus nodded. "Yes, fine, just tell us how to do all this,"

Flinder held up his hand. "Money, jobs, apartment, papers, school," Flinder pointed to each finger as he listed them. "All these things can be gotten through really only two-to-three people. One of them's ol' Judge Jerkins,"

"shit," Calebus said. "Can't believe he's still alive,"

"Oh he's alive alright," Flinder said. "After that fiasco on the fourteenth Earth, he packed up and came straight here to lie low,"

Calebus took another bite of his hotpocket. "He's trouble," he said, chewing. "What kind of racket is he running out here?"

"Ohh, you know," Flinder said. "A little bit of this, a little bit of that. It's definitely troubling work, but it pays well,"

"We can't really afford to draw attention," Calebus mused. "But it sounds like we need the money..."

Flinder nodded emphatically. "Oh yes my friend, especially when you hear what highschool your niece is going to have to go to,"

Yana looked up, suspicious. "I don't really need to go to school, I've already graduated from the Baahalan School of the Striking Viper,"

"I told you, money's everything. Kid's your age stay in general education well into adulthood. And there's only one school around here that can protect kids of people like us; Madison Prep,"

Yana groaned. "I thought I was finished with school!"

Calebus thought on everything he was hearing. "so.." He said, slowly. "Besides Judge Jenkins, who else can help us?"

"Well, there's Mama Mel," Flinder said. "She's one of us too. Helps out other-world refugees with mostly menial, community-based work. Doesn't pay well, but you can keep your head down and feel good about it,"

"hm," Calebus said, listening. "That's our choices, huh?"

"For people like us?" Flinder said, wincing. "Yeah, that's about it. There's a third guy name Drego, and he could get you a real job here. But...he helps out actual refugees and immigrants, from this world. It would be risky for someone like you, an outsider, to try and work with him. You just don't get how this world work's yet..."

"But the money's good?"

Flinder nodded. "Yeah, can't argue that,"

Calebus shared a look with Yana. "Well..." He began.

[] Seek out help from Judge Jerkins
[] Seek out help from Ma Mel
[] Seek out help from Drego

 

[veekie]

[X] Seek out help from Ma Mel

 

[xThomas2]

I am fascinated and completely unfamiliar with the setting.
[X] Seek out help from Judge Jerkins

 

[Sirdragon]

[X] Seek out help from Drego

 

[Lop]

I'll wait a little longer for a tiebreaker vote, then go ahead and roll a dice if we dont get one

Lop threw 1 3-faced dice. Reason: Choice Total: 1

 

[Lop]

[X] Seek out help from Ma Mel

Click to shrink...

I am fascinated and completely unfamiliar with the setting.
[X] Seek out help from Judge Jerkins

Click to shrink...

[X] Seek out help from Drego

Click to shrink...

[X] Seek out help from Ma Mel

"I just don't want to go to this school," Yana said, her expression firm.

Calebus turned back to Flinder. "I'll seek out this Ma Mel. If she doesn't pay much, I'll just have to work extra hard,"

"Heh," Flinder said, his arms crossed as he leaned against his chair. "You say that now, but she'll have you coming and going," The small dog appeared from the kitchen, wobbling its head as it trotted to Flinder. He uncrossed his arms to bend over and scratch its ears.

Yana reached forward and took another hotpocket. This time she broke it in half, blowing on both ends. "That's fine," Calebus said. "I appreciate you feeding us, I'll find a way to pay you back,"

"That's right you will," Flinder said. "Money and strange work is everything here. You'll get used to it soon,"

Calebus took stock of the room they were in, then took a deep breath. "Well, no sense in wasting any time, right? We might as well go and meet her," he paused. "Unless you have things you need to do,"

Flinder opened his arms wide. "Nothing pressing this day, which thankfully happens on occasion,"

Calebus stood, drawing his wool trenchcoat to himself. Flinder watched him, still itching the dog's ears. "It's always good to see clothing like yours,"

"Yes, I noticed clothing is quite different here, a lot like the Empire Earths before the crackdowns,"

Flinder got up from his chair. Yana noticed both men standing and stuffed the rest of the hotpocket in her mouth. She washed it down with her glass of water, then promptly stood. Flinder took the lead through the stacks of books. "You have to understand," Flinder's voice trailed back. "These type of world's are wholly concentrated on themselves. There is nothing else here,"

"That's what I said," Yana said, accidentally bumping into a stack. She froze, her eyes wide. The books swayed, then calmed, and the girl exhaled. She started again through the maze. "This world is empty, it's just people and small buildings,"

"Oh there's quite a lot if you know where to look. Without magic or anything else, they've gotten quite creative. The clothing's just the tip of the iceberg,"

The trio reached the front door, and Flinder led them out into the hall. The small dog tried to follow, but Flinder gently pushed it back in the apartment with his foot. He closed the door and locked it, then headed down the hall.

Once outside, Flinder headed up the sidewalk. Calebus and Yana hastened to flank him on either side. "Calebus said they use guns and bombs here," Yana said, glancing around at the neighborhood. "Is it true? Just that?"

Flinder chuckled and adjusted his aviators. "Yeah, no duels here. They kill each other nice and quick,"

"What about Ma Mel," Calebus said, interrupting. "What kind of work does she usually have people do?"

"It'd be easier to list what she doesn't do. She's a real boon to the community, helping people like us set up and stay involved,"

Flinder led them through a side-street. In the middle was a community garden, surrounded by tall, brick apartment complexes. The garden was fenced in with chainlink and a gate, all painted. Flinder let himself in, and Calebus and Yana cautiously followed. The garden was filled with small plots of greenery and color. Yana playfully pushed at a bunch of tall sunflowers towering over the path. They bobbed, one of them gently brushing her on the head. Yana winced, then cracked an eye. When she saw the sunflowers simply swaying, she quickly caught up to the men.

The community center was perhaps the only one-story building Calebus and Yana had seen here. It was brick, like the surrounding apartment complexes, and featured creative murals and slogans painted across the front. Flinder jogged up the steps and opened the door, motioning for the man and girl to enter.

The inside was just as colorful as the outside. A lobby held several tables and plastic chairs, and a reception desk sat behind a glass window. There was no-one present, save an older woman behind the window. Flinder walked up with a confident strut, leaning one arm of his sports blazer against the pane. He nodded at the woman, getting her attention. "Hey beautiful, is Ma in?"

The woman raised an eyebrow at Flinder, then a slow smile spread across her face. "Why yes Mr. Regis, I do believe she is. Shall I let her know you're here?"

"Oh don't do that," Flinder said, holding a finger to his lips. "I'll go in and surprise her,"

The woman chuckled. "Very well Mr. Regis, see how that goes,"

Flinder walked towards a wooden door. After sharing a look, Calebus and Yana followed. "It's Flinder!" The man announced, opening the door and throwing out his arm.

Another older woman sitting behind a desk looked up from her papers. She wore a comfortable-looking business suit, as well as a scowl on her face. The woman tilted her head to look at Calebus and Yana standing behind Flinder. "If you didn't have people with you right now," The woman said, picking up a stapler. "I'd start throwing things,"

"Maaa," Flinder said, walking in as he slid off his sunglasses. "When have I ever done you wrong?"

Calebus and Yana tentatively followed Flinder into the office. The woman behind the desk coughed. "You dumb vagrant," She said, taking out a cloth and covering her mouth. "You volunteered to help shuttle children back from community pool day, but never showed!"

"Oh yeah, see, what had happened-"

The woman held up a hand. "Don't Flinder. Just tell me who these two are,"

"Ah yes, Ma Mel, may I present you Earth 3's newest refugees in need of sanctuary," Flinder ushered both up to the desk. "Candleman and his niece!"

"Yana," Yana said, glaring at Flinder. "I'm not just his niece,"

"and my name is Calebus," Calebus said, trying to smile diplomatically at the woman.

The woman pursed her lips, nodding. "Well, it's nice to meet you two. I'm sure what you've been through was difficult, it was for all of us certainly. But you've made it, and I can get you set up with housing and some work, if you're willing to pull your weight,"

Calebus nodded "Yes, of course,"

Ma Mel picked up a pen, pointing it at Yana. "And we'll get you enrolled in school after you get a permanent address,"

Yana rolled her eyes. "damn..."

The older woman shuffled papers, then slid a blank one in front of herself. "Alright, let's get some basic information for documents and such. I heard Yana and Calebus, correct? Last names?"

"Ah," Calebus began. He itched his neck. "Well Yana's is Brugges, but mine was just...well, I don't have a last name,"

Flinder crossed his arms. "Ma Mel, you've never heard of Candleman? His candle magic is legendary across the Earth's!"

"Yes well, it won't be legendary here," Ma Mel said, raising a warning eyebrow at Flinder. "But that's fine, we'll both put you down as Candle for your last name. Is it just you two?"

Yana looked down at her lap, doing her best to remain calm. Calebus nodded, his voice quiet. "yes, it's just us,"

"I understand. Now for address, let's see..." The woman consulted something on an old computer monitor. She clicked around a bit, then tapped something out. "Ah, yes, unit 3C in building four is open, you'll share it with the Izata's,"

"thank you," Calebus said.

The woman went back to her sheet of paper and wrote something down. "Now, as for skills, what did Flinder say you did?"

"I uh..." Calebus said. "I was a candle mage, of sorts,"

"I've never heard of a candle mage," Ma Mel said.

"He went around and kicked spirit's asses!" Flinder said, clapping Calebus on the back. "And not just spirits. Didn't matter if it was a mage, a master or a mad one! If they were causing trouble, someone would eventually bring in Candleman to make it stop!"

Ma Mel took a deep breath. "So, you were some sort of...mage bounty-hunter?"

"I was just a traveling warlock," Calebus said, giving Flinder a look that told him to calm it down. "If you want to be technical. Not many people use candle-magic, so word of me spread around quicker than most,"

"Well..." Ma Mel said, writing something on the paper. "Considering magic has no value here, what other skills do you have?"

Calebus shook his head. "I...don't think I have much beyond that. I'm a hard worker though, and I'll do anything you need me to,"

"Oh don't worry," Ma Mel said, finishing writing something and sliding the paper to the side. She opened her desk drawer and withdrew a key. "We'll find work for you Mr. Candle, lot's of it. But for now, let's get you to your new apartment,"

Ma Mel led them out of the community center through a side-door that avoided the community garden. She didn't walk them far, traveling across a side-street to one of the brick apartment complexes that surrounded the center. Once inside, the group walked up dingy stairs and faded wallpaper to the third story. Ma Mel stopped in front of a door and knocked. After a beat, a haggard-looking woman opened it.

"Ilan Izata," Ma Mel said, gesturing at the woman. "Meet Calebus and Yana Candle,"

The woman nodded. "hello," She said, her accent heavy.

Calebus lit up, suprised. "Is that a tcatlan accent I hear? Are you from one of the Rushing Water Earth's?"

It was Ilan's turn to look surprised. She nodded, stepping to the side to let everyone in. "As you can see," Ma Mel said, walking inside. "We don't have much room. Everyone shares an apartment," The woman waved at a kitchen, then at several distant doors in a hall. "The units are five-hundred a month, deducted directly from the pay you'll make working around the community. Utilities are included to a certain point, but if you exceed your monthly water limit you'll have to pay out of pocket. We provide lunch's at the community center, but you'll have to come up with food for yourself mostly,"

Yana blinked, then looked at Calebus. "What is she talking about uncle?"

"Standard stuff Yana," Calebus said, dismissively. "Yes Ma Mel, this all sounds fine,"

"As you can see," The woman said, leading them down the hall. "There's some privacy afforded to you. This door leads to a smaller unit, which will be yours. These doors are the Izata's. You both share the kitchen,"

Calebus opened the door Ma Mel stood by, poking his head in. A small room with a couch and a table greeted him, with several beds in the corner. An open door on the far end revealed a bathroom.

"It's cramped," Ma Mel said. "But you won't find anything for this price anywhere else, or this easily for transplants like us,"

Yana brushed past Calebus into the side-apartment. She slowly turned, taking in the small room. There were two windows on the far wall that drew her attention, and she approached them. Calebus turned to Ma Mel. "This is all fine, thank you,"

"You don't seem to have brought anything with you," The older woman said, glancing Calebus and Yana over. The girl stood by the windows, trying to peer down into the street. "But you can spend the rest of the day acclimating. Tomorrow we'll have your papers ready, and we can get you to work, and her in school,"

"The school," Calebus said, worry creasing his face. "I've heard it's...expensive,"

Ma Mel nodded sympathetically. "It is, and the work we provide won't be able to cover both your housing and her school. We have a few scholarships at the community center, but you'll have to come up with something else pretty soon. I'm sorry it's just you..."

Calebus was silent. "It's fine," He said, glancing at Yana. The girl still stared out the window, oblivious to the conversation.

"You know where to find me if you have any questions," Ma Mel said, smiling at him. "And of course, welcome to this Earth. We all know what you're going through, and you know where to find me if you need to talk. I spend all day at the center," The woman turned and walked past Flinder, stopping to poke him in the stomach. "The next time you agree to shuttle people, show up!"

Flinder swallowed, adjusting his aviators. "Yes Ma, will do,"

Once she had left, Yana turned from the window and shrugged at Calebus. "Well, it's not the worst I've seen,"

"It will do," Calebus said. "The important thing is we have a place to sleep, and a chance at a new life," He turned to Flinder, holding out his hand. "Thank you for helping us out,"

Flinder grasped his arm and brought him in for a hug. "Of course Candleman, it's good to have you here with the forgotten. Feels less dangerous somehow, even if you can't use magic,"

"Sure," Calebus said, smiling politely. "When we get set up I'll have you over for an evening,"

Flinder grinned, then left after a few more goodbyes. Calebus and Yana were left alone in the apartment. Yana approached one of the beds, then held her arms out and fell down on it. "itssoft," she said, her voice muffled. "this onesmine,"

"sure," Calebus said, walking to the sofa and slowly sitting down. He exhaled heavily as he leaned back. Yana lifted her head up from the bed, then sat upright.

"uncle,"

"yeah Yana,"

She was silent for a few moments. "I don't really like this earth,"

Calebus turned slightly on the couch, looking back at her. "It's safe, that's whats important,"

Yana leaned forward, almost tumbling off the bed. "But you said I have to protect us! How am I supposed to protect us!"

"Well, first of all, we shouldn't be attacked at all now that we're here. I'm one of the few people who can track people on a dead world, and I can't even do it anymore now that I'm actually here,"

"so..." Yana said. "Is this New York City...protected by a large wall or something?"

Calebus laughed, facing forward on the couch. "It's never attacked, at least not as much on other Earth's,"

"no way,"

"Yup. Things are bad, but not quite in the way they are on other Earth's. It's like Flinder said, it's just them, and themselves,"

Yana looked down at her lap. "It can't be that bad if it's just humans here I guess...I still don't think you should say things like 'I have to protect us' though,"

"If you're so worried, just practice your forms like you always do,"

Yana made a face at the back of Calebus's head, then untangled her legs. She scooted off the bed and stood up shedding her wool cloak. Underneath she wore the vest and shirt of a Ninjitsu Chi-Student, including the pendant of her school. Yana studied the pendant, then unhooked it and tossed it on the bed. The girl walked to the only space in the apartment; the wood floor between the windows and the sofa. She inhaled deeply and got into position. Bringing her palms across, she exhaled and struck out with a fist. She tried a few more strikes, then glanced over at Calebus. The man had his head back on the sofa, resting his eyes.

Yana sighed loudly, startling him. "This isn't working," she said, crossing the apartment. "I need someplace quieter,"

Calebus leaned his head back on the couch and closed his eyes again. "Don't leave the building Yana,"

The girl walked down the hall, running into Ilan Izanta. The woman was trailed by several children, all dressed in clothing that was too big for them. They huddled around her, pointing excitedly at Yana. "look look!" One of them said, tugging on Ilan's dress.

"yes I see her," Ilan said, then gave a tired smile to Yana. "It's good to see you moving in with us, I hope you won't mind if things are..." The woman shrugged sheepishly. "Loud sometimes?"

"It's fine," Yana said, smiling. She bent down and waved at the kids clinging to Ilan's dress. "I lived for a time in Venice in Seventh Earth, in the canals. It was always loud,"

"seventh earth?" Ilan said, looking confused.

"yeah you know," Yana said, waving again at one of the children. "The one famous for all those mage-wars and the sky-island crystals,"

Ilan shook her head. "I am sorry, I only know this world, and my home,"

Yana straightened back up. "Uncle said you were from a Rushing Water's Earth?"

One of the kids started crying, and Ilan bent down to comfort her. "yes, I will tell you about it some time. Will you and your family wish to come to dinner tonight?"

The girl's face lit up. "Oh, thank you, that would be lovely!" Yana watched as Ilan shepherded her children into the kitchen, then waved to them as she left the apartment.

Yana tried to practice her forms in the hallway. Her ears kept picking up on muffled voices, so she went downstairs. The lobby was no better. Yana knew her Uncle said she wasn't supposed to go outside, but the sun beckoned to her through the stained-glass window of the door. Glancing around, Yana decided to step outside.

The neighborhood was alive with distant sounds. Music, cars, and voices. Yana found the side-street, which was mostly empty save for emergency fire stairs and dumpsters. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, then began practicing her forms.

It didn't take long for a new sound to distract her. It was a strange noise, oddly familiar. A tune almost, like when the wind perfectly blew through chimes. Yana opened her eyes and looked down the side street. The noise drifted down.

The girl began walking towards it. The side street remained empty, though the sound of cars a street over picked up. The tune grew louder, and Yana zeroed in on it. It emitted from behind a dumpster.

A tubular music box sat against the brick wall. It was intricately made with brass and wood, and tubes gleamed from the sunlight that filtered into the side-street. Yana finally recognized the tune; an old lullaby she used to hear in Venice.

"Beautiful song, isn't it," a deep voice said.

Yana straightened up with a yelp. She turned, spotting four figures.

The first was a man in black tactical gear. He had the head of a jackal, with ears that pointed straight up. On one side of him was a man with four arms, also wearing black tactical gear, as well as similarly-dressed man with the head of a panther. On the other side, a woman wearing a white stage-mask.

"Who are you," Yana said, narrowing her eyes.

"Name's Slaw," The Jackal-man said. "Are you're coming with us,"

Yana took a tentative step to the side, her hands slowly raising. "Did...did Doctor Paggilio send you?"

The Jackal-man nodded. "You weren't too hard to track,"

Yana froze. "You...you aren't supposed to be able to track us here,"

"and yet we did," The Jackal-man said, smiling. "Now come with us, and don't cause any trouble,"

Yana studied the group wearing tactical gear. "Did you bring guns?"

The Jackal-man lifted the cover on a pouch, revealing a blade handle. "We don't need them,"

Yana smiled. "yeah, yeah you do,"

The four-armed man rushed forward, drawing a riot-club from his belt. Yana skipped backwards and placed a foot to the wall, then opened her vest with a single motion. The side's flared out to reveal two knife belts. With her other hand she scooped up three knives and flung them.

The four-armed man lashed out with his club. He knocked away one, but the other two caught him in the leg and thigh, causing him to stagger. Yana rushed up to him and tapped him lightly with two punches, one to the throat and one to the eye. The man stumble back and fell.

The woman and panther-man charged at Yana, both of them drawing swords. Yana ran along the wall, skipping up onto the dumpster. She gripped three more knives and began flinging them.

The panther-man knocked them away with precision, then clambered up on the dumpster. Yana shoved him back with her foot, then jumped down in front of him and began landing strikes. Onetwothreefourfivesix, Yana sought out his weak spots and struck faster than he could react. She paused a beat, watching as the panther-man staggered. She landed six-more quick strikes, then knocked him back with a kick.

Yana's world spun as she felt a blow from behind. She stumbled forward, steadying herself in time to turn and block the next blow. The woman in the stage-mask had knocked her with her sword-handle. Yana gripped her head to stop the throbbing, and bringing up her other fist. She dove in, trying to land her quick strikes again, but the woman swung with the sword and forced Yana back. The girl tried to charge in again, but the woman swung just as quickly.

Catching her breath, Yana placed her feet on the ground and spread into a wide stance. She began to bob back and forth, but didn't move her feet. Around and around she moved, as if she were some type of snake rearing to strike. The woman watched her, then raised her sword and approached.

When the woman was in striking distance, she lashed out. Yana lurched back to miss the sword point as she grasped the woman's wrist. She fell back, her momentum carrying the woman with her. Yana brought up her knee, catching the woman in the stomach on the way down. When they hit the ground, Yana rolled over on top of her and delivered two quick strikes to her throat.



As her assailant gasped, Yana slowly stood up. The Jackal-man watched her, having not moved from his spot. Yana wiped the sweat from her brow with the back of her hand, then pointed at him. "Doctor Paggilio should have known better than to underestimate me,"

The jackal-man smiled, cracking his neck. "He didn't little girl, trust me,"

The man started approaching, not bothering to draw any weapons. Yana narrowed her eyes.

[] Striking Venom Style (Throwing knives and quick strikes)
[] Unrelenting Viper Style (Six-quick strikes, repeat)
[] Swaying Cobra Style (Defensive-stance, react to attacks)

 

[veekie]

[X] Striking Venom Style (Throwing knives and quick strikes)

 

[xThomas2]

[X] Unrelenting Viper Style (Six-quick strikes, repeat)
I feel a bit iffy about throwing knives. Do we have enough of them, or would we use them all up, leaving us in a fight without any knives? I suppose it doesn't matter - early battles are easy, right?

 

[TimEd]

[X] Striking Venom Style (Throwing knives and quick strikes)

this is the only style which hasnt been successful. Might get lucky this time. Also wonder what loot these peeps will drop.

 

[wingstrike96]

[X] Striking Venom Style (Throwing knives and quick strikes)

 

[Aoinfinity]

Looks like an interesting concept. Is this an original setting?

[X] Swaying Cobra Style (Defensive-stance, react to attacks)

 

[Lop]

[X] Striking Venom Style (Throwing knives and quick strikes)

Click to shrink...

[X] Unrelenting Viper Style (Six-quick strikes, repeat)
I feel a bit iffy about throwing knives. Do we have enough of them, or would we use them all up, leaving us in a fight without any knives? I suppose it doesn't matter - early battles are easy, right?

Click to shrink...

[X] Striking Venom Style (Throwing knives and quick strikes)

this is the only style which hasnt been successful. Might get lucky this time. Also wonder what loot these peeps will drop.

Click to shrink...

[X] Striking Venom Style (Throwing knives and quick strikes)

Click to shrink...

Looks like an interesting concept. Is this an original setting?

[X] Swaying Cobra Style (Defensive-stance, react to attacks)

Click to shrink...

[X] Striking Venom Style (Throwing knives and quick strikes)

The girl's hand strayed to her knife belts. There were nine left, and her fingers curled around the hilt of two of them. The Jackal-man shook his head.

"Don't try it girl,"

In response, Yana let two fly. They shot out, impacting against the Jackal-man's chest and bouncing off. They sound of metal on concrete echoed down the street as the knives hit the ground. The Jackal-man bent his legs and launched forward, sprinting towards Yana.

She only had a moment to skip to the side. The Jackal-man blurred past her, skidding to a halt against the dumpster. Yana gripped two more knives, one in each hand. She started skipping backwards, gaining space. The Jackal-man turned to her, popping his shoulder. "You're fast girl," He said, popping the other shoulder. "I read about you before I left. You can't use Chi-power, can you?" Yana narrowed her eyes, fingering one of the knife handles. She didn't respond, instead maneuvering into the middle of the side-street. The Jackal-man started walking towards her. "I can't use it either," He said, bending his knees. He launched at her.

Yana flung one of her knives and then spun out of the way. She heard it bounce harmlessly off the Jackal-man, and felt a breeze as he narrowly missed her. He skidded to a halt again, spinning to face her. Yana slid out another knife, working it in her hand.

"Funny thing about Chi-power," The Jackal-man said, cracking his knuckles as he approached. "If you can't use it, you just have to be faster than people who can," He bent his legs, launching at her again. Yana moved to skip out of the way, but the Jackal-man shifted as he charged, throwing out an arm and catching her across the chest. Yana spun to the ground, impacting against it as the Jackal-man skidded to a halt.

She jumped to her feet as her opponent charged again. It seemed he was getting faster. Instead of dodging away, Yana flung both knives with all her might. One of them flew towards the Jackal-man's face. He deflected it with his arm. The other embedded in his chest. He didn't flinch, instead slamming into Yana and sending her flying.

She flew down the street, landing on the gravel and sliding along the ground. The wind was knocked from her. She could feel the ground tremble as the Jackal-man charged after her. Yana pressed her hands to the ground and launched herself up. She winced as she got to her feet, then bent her knees and jumped out of the way as the Jackal-man flew past.

She steadied herself against the wall, then ran along it and up onto a dumpster. She turned back to face the Jackal-man. He slowly approached, the knife still protruding from his chest. He cupped a hand to his snout. "Give up girl! You can't hurt me!" He grabbed the knife and tore it out, flinging it away. It bounced with a loud clang against the brick wall. Next he gripped his armor and tore it from his shoulder straps. He let it drop as he walked, revealing a gleaming metallic torso. The Jackal-man came to a stop, presenting his torso. "Exo-suit," He called up to the dumpster. "Courtesy of a mad one. No need for Chi-power or magic. And your knives and little-hits won't do anything,"

Yana took a deep breath, then exhaled slowly. "You talk too much," She said, drawing out three more knives.

"Really?" The Jackal-man said, opening his arms wide. "You're still going to insist on fighting? Someone's going to get really hurt, and it's not going to be me,"

Yana steadied herself, then launched to the side. Her feet hit the wall and she ran along it. The Jackal-man sprinted after her, running at the base of the wall. The girl launched off it, landing in the side-street and rolling to her feet. She spun with all her might, launching the three knives.

One of them flew towards the Jackal-Man's head. He threw up an arm, deflecting it. The other two knives hit the wall Yana had jumped off it. They bounced off, flying back towards the Jackal-man. One missed. The other embedded in the back of his neck.

The Jackal-man stumbled, then fell, sliding along the street. He came to a stop by Yana. She bent down and took the knife from his neck. "In my school," Yana said, wiping the blade with a cloth. "They determined entry into special clubs with contests," She slid the knife into her belt. "Without Chi-power, I had to get creative," The Jackal-man didn't respond, simply gurgling on the ground. Yana took a deep breath, then looked around the alley at the other assailants' bodies. She let out a low squeal. "shiiiiiittttttttt! Oh my god oh my god oh my gooddddddddd!" She buried her hands in her face, trying to stop from hyperventilating. "no no no uncle's going to kill meeee!" She dragged her hands down her face, peering over the fingers. The woman in the stage-mask groaned, and started moving. Yana's eyes went wide. She sprinted away, then came to a halt, looking back. She ran to the dumpster and grabbed the music box, then sprinted away again.

Her feet pounding the ground, Yana ran as fast as she could. Her memory blurred. Which big brick apartment complex was hers? She came to a halt, trying to catch her breath. Her body felt sore all over now that the adrenaline was gone. She glanced around frantically, finally recognizing a potted plant in front of a stoop. She ran up the stairs, then ripped open the door and ran inside.

"Uncle!" She called as she ran up the stairs. "uncleeeeeee!" She reached the second story, then continued up the next staircase. "uncle!" She called, though her breathing was ragged. By the time she reached the top of the stairs, she was staggering. "oh my god uncle," she said, catching her breath. "are you deaf??"

She ran to the door of the apartment and tried the handle. It was locked, so she pounded loudly. After a moment the door unlocked, and a startled Ilan answered the door. The smell of cooking wafted out into the hall.

"Sorry Ilan!" Yana said, brushing past her with the music box. "Close the door and lock it!" Yana ran down the hall, stopping in front of the door and barging in. "UNCLE!"

Calebus lurched up from the couch, blinking wildly. "wha-what! what happened!"

"I was attacked!" Yana said, gesturing with the music box. "Doctor Paggilio's people found me!"

Calebus blinked a couple more times, then looked confused. "wait, are you sur-"

"Yes I'm sure!" Yana said. "They told me so! And they told me they can track us!"

Calebus continued to look confused, then grew stern. "Yana, they can't track us. There has to be magic and chi-auras here, and there aren't,"

"but, but," Yana gestured with the music box again. "you said you could track people!"

"well yes," he said, itching the back of his neck. "but I'm not tracking chi-auras..it's...complicated. And only candle-mages can really do it,"

"so, so," Yana tried to think, but her mind was still fried from the fight. "Who cares! They know we're here! They found me and fought me!"

Concern crossed Calebus's face. "Are you hurt?"

"Of course I'm hurt! One of them almost ran me over like a truck!" Yana shook her head, slowly approaching the couch. She deposited the music box on the sofa, then sat wearily on the armrest. "Uncle, this place is just as dangerous as the last Earth..."

Calebus furrowed his brow. "this..this is impossible,"

A knock sounded on the door. Both Calebus and Yana looked up. "hello?" Ilan said, her voice muffled. "Are you okay Yana? Would you like some food?"

Yana's stomach growled. She quickly stood. "Yes Ilan!"

The door opened, and the woman poked her head in. Two children squeezed in as well, running into the sub-apartment. Ilan yelled at both of them to behave.

"Thank you Ilan," Calebus said, approaching her. "That was very kind of you,"

She offered two plates towards him, though she looked at Yana with concern. "Are you okay Yana?"

"yeah," The girl said, rubbing her arm. "Just...don't open the door unless you know who's there..."

Not soon after eating, Calebus contacted Ma Mel, and together he and some other community members checked out the side-street. There were no bodies, but a few blood stains, as well as Yana's knives. Calebus shook his head as he collected them.

"Your girl a fighter?" Ma Mel said, watching as Calebus bent down to pick up another knife.

"You could say that," he said, turning around to survey the alley.

Ma Mel crossed her arms. "This isn't good, Mr. Candle. We don't usually ask or care what are people are running from, but we've never had someone bring trouble this quickly,"

"It shouldn't be happening," Calebus murmured, almost to himself. "Statistically speaking, they shouldn't have any idea where we are..."

"Well, we have a few of ours in the local police precinct. We'll get a few squad cars to keep watch, but if this continues to happen, we may have to re-examine our arrangement," Ma Mel fixed him with a serious stare. "I have a lot of people I have to look out for, and that depend on me,"

"I understand," Calebus said. "It...shouldn't happen again,"

Ma Mel raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure?"

"Is there any magic in this world?"

"None,"

Calebus nodded. "Then I'm sure,"

That evening, as Yana slept off the fight in one of the beds, Calebus stared at the wall on the sofa. His mind was full, worried, and tangled. There could be no way Dr. Paggilio was tracking them. It was impossible. Calebus was one of the few people who could do it, and even then...



And yet...

Calebus's gaze moved to the music box still resting on the couch. He stood, rushing towards the door. Ilan was in the shared kitchen, cleaning dishes as one of her children helped. Calebus came up behind her, startling the woman. "Ilan,"

"eek!" She said, almost dropping a plate. "oh! Mr. Candle!"

"Animal fat," Calebus said, his gaze intense. "Do you have any?"

The woman seemed confused, then slowly nodded. "Yes we have some in the fridge. Ma Mel does not like us dumping it down drain, and garbage only comes-"

Calebus threw open the fridge, his eyes searching the interior. He found a mason-jar full of animal fat and took it from the fridge. "May I borrow a pot?" He said, turning to her.

"I...I, yes?" Ilan said, reaching into the watery sink and pulling out a clean pan.

Calebus took it from her, startling her with movement. He flipped on the gas stove, then threw on the pot. He poured the animal fat into it, then took a wooden spoon from a cup full of them. Ilan and her child watched as Calebus began stirring.

The apartment filled with a foul smell. Calebus ignored it, watching as the animal fat bubbled. Several more of Ilan's children came out into the kitchen, complaining of the odor. They hushed as they saw Calebus working.

The man drew out wick and twine from his wool-coat, as well as a metal tool. He hung up the twine over the kitchen stove and sink, tying it on either. The pot continued to bubble, and suddenly, Calebus cut the heat.

Ilan and her children watched as Calebus drew out the cooked animal fat into another bowl. He dug in his hands, eliciting cries of surprise from the children. Calebus worked the fat, then began shaping it into a long cylinder. He held it up and whispered some words, then began working it again.

By the time he was done, one large candle hung from the string. Animal fat dripped down onto the kitchen counter. Calebus took a step back, surveying his work as he wiped his hands on a towel.

"mama look!" One of the children said, tugging on Ilan's dress. "A candle!"

"yes Niso," Ilan said, her face confused. "Mr. Candle-oh! I get your name now!"

Calebus nodded in response, finishing drying his hands. "I'm sorry about the smell, I'll clean this all up before I retire tonight,"

"It's fine," Ilan said, tilting her head to inspect the candle. "but, why did you make it?"

Calebus didn't answer for a moment, staring at the candle. "Hopefully, it will just be a nice source of light..."

The rest of the evening, Calebus sat on the couch. In front of him, in the middle of the floor, rested the candle. Its wick wasn't lit. In fact, there was little light save the glare of cars as they passed outside. Yana snored nosily on the bed.

The next morning, Calebus took Yana to the community center. Ma Mel was waiting for them at the reception desk. "Good morning," She said, curtly.

Yana yawned, then winced. Ma Mel walked up to her, clicking her tongue as she inspected the girl. "you poor thing, those viscous brutes who attacked you deserve everything they get," She turned away. "Having said that, we must turn our attention to your school,"

"ah," Yana said, looking disappointed.

"We'll head over there now," Ma Mel said, picking up a box. "Our scholarships cover the uniform, and some of the boarding. I'm afraid you'll have to come up everything else," She extended the box towards them. Calebus took it. "Several of the community members came together and denoted clothing for both of you. It will be especially important for Yana, as Madison Prep is a highly-regarded private school,"

Yana groaned. "this is going to be awful!"

"Yet necessary," Ma Mel said. "As is most of life,"

"Thank you," Calebus said, looking down at the folded clothes in the box. "You're all very generous to us,"

"Just make sure we don't regret it," Ma Mel said, a frown on her face. "Yesterday rattled more than just little Yana here,"

"I'm not little," Yana mumbled.

Ma Mel took Calebus and Yana to an old car outside the community center. From there, they drove through the streets of the Lower East Side neighborhood.

It was busy. There were cars, and some people on the sidewalks. The sun rose behind them as Ma Mel navigated the bumper-to-bumper traffic. Yana pressed her face to the window, watching the world pass by.

The buildings and apartments grew nicer, and soon there were expensive towers rising on all sides of them. There were still old stone buildings, and they rose up quite a ways as well. The new was mixed with the old, and everyone crowded around it.

Ma Mel turned off the street into a short embankment leading up to a gate. Beyond it was a brick school, at least three stories. It looked odd, and out of place. It was old, and fancy. But surrounding it on all three sides were tall, modern office buildings. The school hid behind an iron and brick fence covered in ivy. There wasn't much space for the school and its little plot, but enough for a tiny campus with grass and a pond, as well as the brick school.

The gate opened, and Ma Mel drove through. Yana couldn't help but stare out at the campus as they drove down a short circle drive. A few students walked about on a path. They all wore crisp uniforms.

Ma Mel stopped outside stone steps leading up to the front entrance. A few more students congregated around it, talking among themselves. Calebus and Yana got out, both of them peering up at the slanting roof of the school. Beyond the wall, office buildings towered over them like mountains.

"come come," Ma Mel said, leading them up the steps. Yana could feel the eyes of the students as she hurried after the the woman. Calebus brought up the rear, carrying the box of clothing.

Inside was like a fairy-tale. The walls were a mix of dark wood and old paintings. The ground was carpeted with beautiful rugs, and the staircase in the reception was grand and wide. It almost felt more like a mansion than a school. There were more students about, all giving Yana brief glances. The girl swallowed as she walked down the hall, her neck burning.

At the end of the mansion's hall was a wooden door. Ma Mel stopped before it, cautioning Calebus and Yana with a finger. "Though the superintendent is one of us," Ma Mel said, her voice low. "Headmistress Mauve is not. Your papers say you are from Italy, so you must act is if you are new citizens,"

Calebus and Yana both nodded, and Ma Mel knocked on the door. "Come in," a voice said.

Inside was an office lined with wooden walls and glass cases. It was clearly a headmistress's office, with bookshelves and inspirational quotes. A tall, hawkish-looking woman sat behind a desk, wearing an elegant business-suit. Her eyes flickered to the group entering. "ahhh," the headmistress said, folding her hands on her desk. "Ma Mel, always a pleasure,"

"Mauve," Ma Mel said, smiling warmly. "Thank you for having us,"

"And who is this?" the Headmistress said, tilting her head towards Yana.

Yana waved, trying her best to appear friendly. "I'm Yana,"

"Hm yes," Headmistress Mauve said, picking up the papers on her desk. "Ma Mel sent over your papers. Italy was it? You must be Mr. Candle. Please, both of you, have a seat," Calebus and Yana obliged, sitting in the chairs in front of the desk. Ma Mel sat in a chair near the back of the office. "So I see we have proof of residence," The Headmistress said. "As well as citizenship, yes, yes, I'm not seeing immunization records,"

Calebus and Yana shared a look, then glanced at Ma Mel. "We'll take care of them at the center Mauve," The woman called.

"See that you do," Headmistress Mauve said, ticking off a box with a pen. "We can't afford you bringing in anything from abroad," She set the paper down. "Mr. Candle, are you aware of how this campus works?"

"Not...exactly," Calebus said.

"We structure things a little bit differently here," The Headmistress said, raising her chin. "Students are kept to a high standard. We guide their days and curriculum around active learning styles that focus on keeping your student involved, both in constant education and social interactions. We boast a highly-involved student population here at Madison Prep,"

Yana's eyes were wide, clearly having no idea what was being said. She slowly turned to Calebus, waiting for her uncle to make sense of it. The man simply nodded. "Yes, alright,"

"Students live on-campus in our dorms Monday through Thursday," The Headmistress said, growing serious. "So you must make sure Yana is vaccinated, so as not to endanger her suite-mates,"

"I understand," Calebus said.

Yana grow concerned. "Wait, I have to live here?"

"Four days a week, yes," The Headmistress said. "You may of course go home on Friday for the weekend, though many of our students stay involved her on campus well through Saturday,"

Yana looked at Calebus. "Uncle! I can't do that!"

"You can," Calebus said, giving her a look that tried to convey seriousness. "This is..the good option Yana. The..safe option,"

"But, but," Yana said. "I've already graduated from the Viper School! I don't need this!"

Headmistress Mauve cleared her throat. "I assure you, whatever school they had back in Italy cannot compare to the quality education and socialization that Madison Prep provides,"

Yana gestured at Calebus. "Uncle! I can't be cooped up here!"

Calebus leaned in close to her, his voice low. "Yana, please. Especially in light of what happened yesterday, this place has to be the safest option,"

Yana crossed her arms, turning away. "You don't know that Uncle,"

"Headmistress," Calebus said, turning to the woman. "Can you ensure the safety of the students here?"

"Ahem!" The woman said, lifting her chin. "Of course I can Mr. Candle! There are security measures here you cannot even begin to fathom. Yana will be beyond safe,"

"Thank you, I'd like to enroll her immediately then,"

"Uncle!" Yana protested.

Headmistress Mauve picked up a piece of paper and hummed to herself as she checked off more boxes. "Tuition is a thousand dollars a week, that covers food and board while young miss Candle is here,"

Calebus swallowed, feeling the room grow smaller. "a...yes,"

Headmistress Mauve's pen stopped writing, and she looked up to meet Calebus's gaze. "Will that be a problem, Mr. Candle?"

"n-no, Headmistress. Not a problem,"

"Hm, very good. Ma Mel tells me you were a candle-maker of some renown back in Italy. I'm impressed, I didn't think that was still a viable trade,"

Calebus simply nodded. "It is...back where we come from,"

"Well," The Headmistress said, circling something on the paper. "As I said, we have a highly-active student body here on campus. As such, Yana will have to pick a club to be involved with, as that will determine the curriculum structure,"

Yana blinked. "Club?"

"Actives. Swimming, chess, tennis, student politics,"

Yana's head was spinning. She turned to Calebus. "Uncle?"

"It's like the special clubs they had back at your school," Calebus said. "Just pick one,"

"We have all sorts," Headmistress Mauve said, holding up her hand. "Theater, Polo, Rugby, Literature,"

The girl's head was still spinning. What did any of it mean?

[] Pick Theater Club
[] Pick Polo Club
[] Pick Rugby Club
[] Pick Literature Club

 

[Lop]

Looks like an interesting concept. Is this an original setting?

[X] Swaying Cobra Style (Defensive-stance, react to attacks)

Click to shrink...

Yup! Completely original (or at least as original as something with magic and ninjas can be)

 

[SleepMode]

[X] Pick Literature Club

 

[Aoinfinity]

[X] Pick Rugby Club

May as well keep fit with our mandatory recreation.

 

[TimEd]

[X] Pick Theater Club

This is a chance ro learn something new and unexpected. This will hopefully teach the 'disguise and act' way of the ninja rather than the stabby and punchy side.

Also this will be (hopefully) a completely unexpected skill to anyone searching for us and just might help avoid a fight or two.

 

[Lop]

I'll give it an hour or two for a tiebreaker vote, or worst case I'll just roll a dice to determine the outcome--stay tuned!

Lop threw 1 3-faced dice. Reason: Tiebreaker Total: 3

 

[TimEd]

I'll give it an hour or two for a tiebreaker vote, or worst case I'll just roll a dice to determine the outcome--stay tuned!

Click to shrink...

might have to roll for it. Its been quite some time since my vote, but yea. An hour or so should work.

Edit: yeah! Theater club, prepare for ninja mayhem.

 

[Lop]

[X] Pick Literature Club

Click to shrink...

[X] Pick Rugby Club

May as well keep fit with our mandatory recreation.

Click to shrink...

[X] Pick Theater Club

This is a chance ro learn something new and unexpected. This will hopefully teach the 'disguise and act' way of the ninja rather than the stabby and punchy side.

Also this will be (hopefully) a completely unexpected skill to anyone searching for us and just might help avoid a fight or two.

Click to shrink...

[X] Pick Theater Club

What could she possibly pick? She only recognized two of those words, theater and literature. Yana glanced at her uncle, but Calebus was clearly waiting with the rest of the adults for her answer. Uncertainty crossed the girl's face. "Um," She began. "T-theater?"

"Oh?" Headmistress Mauve said, raising an eyebrow. "An actor, are we?"

Calebus snorted, putting a hand to his mouth to cover it. Yana shot him an irritated look. "What! You weren't helping me choose!"

"No no," Calebus said, putting up his palms with a grin. "I think theater would be a really...good choice, for you,"

Headmistress Mauve wrote something on the paper she held. "Very good, theater it is. Mr. Wheat is in charge of our theater department, and his class meets in the afternoon, so we'll structure all your classes around morning time," The Headmistress continued to write as she spoke. "I'm putting you in suite twenty-two, you'll be rooming with three other girls," Yana simply nodded, feeling overwhelmed. Calebus also listened, his expression deep in thought. "As I mentioned," Headmistress Mauve said. "Tuition is a thousand a week, with the first portion accepted upon registration," Headmistress Mauve paused, looking at Calebus. He nodded, showing he was following. The Headmistress gave a polite smile. "Registration is now, Mr. Candle,"

"Oh!" Calebus said, checking over the pockets of his wool trench-coat. "Uhhh,"

Ma Mel appeared behind his chair, leaning towards the desk to slide something towards Headmistress Mauve. "The community is covering the first two week's tuition with our scholarship," Ma Mel said. "Mr. Candle will come up with the rest after,"

"Hm, of course Mel," Headmistress Mauve said, taking the check and tucking it in a notebook. "In that case Candles, let us show you to Miss Candle's suite," She rose, then fixed Calebus with a stare. "You have until tomorrow however to get her her proper shots. Herd immunity only works if every member of the herd is on the same page,"

Confusion crossed Calebus's face. "Are you comparing the students to a...herd?"

"I am Mr. Candle, at least when it comes to polio,"

Without another word, Headmistress Mauve headed for the door of the office. Calebus and Yana looked to Ma Mel, who nodded that they should follow.

Outside the office, the halls of the manor-school were empty, the students having all gone to their classes. The headmistress led them to the grand staircase in the reception parlor, lifting up her hem to climb the stairs. "Classes are primarily on the first floor," She called back. "Student suites are on the first and second level,"

"Uncle," Yana murmured, following Headmistress Mauve up the stairs. "it's not too late, you don't have to leave me here,"

"I'm not leaving you here," Calebus murmured back. "This might actually be a good thing beyond safety. You could learn a thing or two here,"

"Learn what!" Yana said, her voice rising. She glanced furtively at the headmistress, but the woman continued up the stairs. "There's no magic or real history, and I'm already a Viper school graduate!"

The group reached the second level, where elegant, wooden hallways spread out in either direction. Headmistress Mauve continued towards one hallway, leading the group past old portraits and marble busts. The hallway was interspersed by numbered, oak doors.

"You can learn all sorts of things here," Calebus said, motioning discretely at one of the portraits. "They've got history, and you could always brush up on your numbers,"

"but, but, what if numbers work differently here! Not every reality has to be base-ten!"

Headmistress Mauve stopped in front of one of the doors, turning her nose up to Yana. "I assure you Miss Candle, our mathematics curriculum is unparalleled," She presented the door. "Here is your suite door," She opened it, leading everyone inside. "Your suite-mates will be back soon to put away their things for lunch,"

The room beyond was a common area of sorts. It held a small kitchen, a sofa, a table and four chairs. There were a few posters on the walls, as well as potted plants by the window. "Oh!" Yana said, putting hands to her face. "Uncle! This is nicer than where we live!"

Calebus couldn't help but agree as he surveyed the room. It seemed very clean, and very expensive. Headmistress Mel walked to one of two doors on either side of the suite. "This is your room," The Headmistress said, opening it slightly. "You'll be rooming with Beatrix Hanover, and in the opposite room is Claudette Valentine and Jessica Rooney. It is very important you learn to get along with your suite-mates and fellow students Miss Candle. We do not tolerate disturbances to our curriculum,"

Yana slowly approached the door the Headmistress stood in front of. She poked her head in. Inside was a room with two beds on either end. One side was clearly occupied. Bright posters and flower pots circled one end, and a stuffed bear was on the bed along with a pile of pillows. The other side was empty, save for a bed and chest of drawers. Calebus walked in behind Yana with the box of clothes. "Looks good," He said, glancing at the empty side. He set the box of clothing down on it.

"I would advise changing into your uniform before lunch," Headmistress Mauve said, studying Yana's wool cloak with thinly veiled judgement. Yana simply nodded. The Headmistress turned to Calebus. "Well Mr. Candle, if you're satisfied with everything, we best leave your niece to her new life here at Madison Prep Academy. I assure you she is in the best of hands,"

"It all looks fine," Calebus said, following the Headmistress out into the common room. "Thank you,"

Headmistress Mauve smiled politely. "We are of course pleased to have Miss Candle here, I believe she'll make a very bright student," The door to the suite opened, and three girls entered, all wearing uniforms. The Headmistress made a satisfied sound, presenting the three girls as Yana emerged from her new room. "Miss Candle, may I introduce your suite mates. Girls, introduce yourselves to your new classmate, Yana Candle,"

A diminutive, cheery girl stepped forward, wearing a flower clip in her dark hair. "Hi! Yana, was it?" Yana simply nodded, unsure of the girl. "My name's Beatrix, but everyone calls me Bee! We'll be in the same room together!"

Headmistress Mauve nodded, then gestured at the next girl. "Claudette Valentine," she said, looking bored. She had sharp cheekbones, light brown hair, and a demeanor that suggested everyone was moments away from being verbally assaulted. Once she had said her name, she glanced briefly at Calebus, then turned and headed for her room. Headmistress Mauve nodded to the last girl.

The last girl didn't respond at first, her expression unreadable. She too studied Calebus, then Yana. "Jessica Rooney," she finally said, then turned away and followed after Claudette.

"Well," Headmistress Mauve said, clasping her hands together in front of her. "There you have it Yana. Get to know each other, and remember to have your uniform on by lunch. Beatrix will show you the way to the dining hall. I'll be in the hallway, Mr. Candle, you may say your goodbyes and meet me out there,"

Headmistress Mauve and Ma Mel left the room. Beatrix planted herself on the sofa and tilted her head, watching Yana and Calebus. The man turned to his niece, placing a reassuring hand to her shoulder. "I uh...know this is going to be hard for you..."

Yana looked down and away from her uncle, her feelings conflicted. "I don't want to be here," She murmured, her voice quiet.

"I know, but give it a chance Yana. This is the first real home we've had in awhile..." The girl simply nodded, though her expression was miserable. Calebus leaned in and gave her a hug. "It will be fine, you can contact me if you need anything, and I'll see you on Friday,"

"okay," Yana said.

With a polite nod to Beatrix on the sofa, Calebus left the room. He gave one last reassuring nod to Yana, then closed the door behind him.

Yana was left standing in the room, unsure of what to do. Beatrix leaned forward on the sofa. "wait, that was your father??"

Turning to the girl, Yana studied her. The smaller girl seemed eager, though her flower clip was threatening to fall from her hair. "Uncle," Yana said.

"He's so hot and broody!" Beatrix said, grinning. "Where are you guys from! You have an accent!" The girl stood, approaching Yana. "And your skin! It's so beautiful! Are you biracial?"

"I..." Yana said, taking a step back. "I don't know what that means,"

"ha!" Beatrix said, her smile growing. "Say 'hello' or something, you have to tell me where you're from!"

Yana looked confused, taking another step back. "Um, Italy for a little while,"

"Oh. My. God!" Beatrix said, clapping once. "Say something in Italian!"

"<I would rather die than go to this school>"

Beatrix looked confused. "That's...not Italian...I don't know what that was..."

"It's a...regional dialect?" Yana said, giving a sheepish smile.

Beatrix returned the grin, then headed for the room. "Come on! We'll get you in your uniform and down to lunch!" She breezed into the bedroom, Yana reluctantly following. Beatrix walked to Yana's bed and peered into the box. "Wait, is this all you brought?" Yana nodded, standing respectably by the door. Beatrix shook her head as she took the uniform out and inspected it. "Well, it's not new, but its not the worse I've seen either. You're probably going to hear remarks from Claudette and Jessica,"

"I will?" Yana said.

"Oh yeah, they're both very rich, almost everyone in this school is!" She turned over the uniform, then looked up at Yana. "How did you get in?"

Yana thought for a beat. "Ma Mel?"

"Never heard of it, but c'mon! Try on your uniform!"

Yana looked startled. "w-what, with you in the room?"

Beatrix shrugged. "I can leave if you're shy,"

"Well," Yana said, slowly taking off her wool cloak. Her vest, shirt and knife-belts revealed themselves.

"What. The. HECK!" Beatrix said, shocked. She pointed at the knife-belts. "What the heck!"

Yana looked down at the knives, her face growing red. "Oh, um,"

"That's amazing! What the heck!" Beatrix ran to her, bending over to inspect the knives. "Ooooh, the handles are so pretty! And carved!"

"thanks?"

Beatrix straightened up, giving Yana a suspicious look. "But why do you have knives?"

"It's...uh, an Italian thing?"

"I think they're really cool, but you should hide them," Beatrix said, knowingly. "The other students will make fun of weird stuff like that,"

"o-okay," Yana said, unbuckling her knife belts. "I feel safer with them though..."

"Oh cool, and what's that!" Beatrix said, pointing at Yana's Viper School pendant.

Yana's hand strayed up to the medal, feeling along its edge. "It's from my old school, back in Sadjusukistan,"

"Sada-what-what?" Beatrix said. "Is that a country?"

"maybe not here," Yana murmured.

"Huh?"

Yana shed her vest, then approached the bed where her uniform lay. "Nevermind," She said, picking up the gray button-up shirt.

"You're weird," Beatrix said, smiling. "I like it! I don't think anyone else will, but I do!"

Yana simply stared at the uniform. She still wasn't sure what to make of all this. Finally she sighed, and picked up the rest of the uniform.

Fifteen minutes later, Beatrix was excitedly leading Yana through a stream of other students. They all talked and murmured as they moved along the hall, shooting glancing at Yana in her uniform. The girl felt self-conscious, tugging at her short neck-tie to loosen the knot Beatrix had tied for her.

"You'll love the food here," Beatrix said, smiling. "We've got a famous Chef from Quimper!"

"okay," Yana said, moving along with the sea of students. They all spilled into a large dining room, with tall ceilings, a few chandeliers, and rows and rows of tables. Yana followed Beatrix into line, taking a tray from a stack of them.

"So!" Beatrix said, sliding her tray along a serving-station. "What activity did you choose?"

"Activity?"

"Band, chess, you know!" Beatrix said, pointing at a tray of mashed potatoes. A kitchen worker served her a ladle-full. "I'm in garden-studies myself!"

"Oh," Yana said, mimicking Beatrix and pointing at the potatoes. "I'm in theater,"

Beatrix pointed at some rice, which another worker served onto her plate. "ooohhhh, theater, that should be fun! Oh, and you're Italian, so it makes sense!"

"Does it?" Yana said, also pointing at the rice. She watched as the server deposited a spoonful on her tray.

"I'm sure you'll love it," Beatrix said, pointing out the other food she wanted. "Peter Macklan is the head student-actor there, and he's amazing!"

Once the two girls had finished piling up their trays, Yana followed Beatrix towards a table. There were only a few students sitting there, and both girls took the empty end. Beatrix immediately opened her bottled-tea and began drinking. Yana looked around the dining hall, feeling the occasional glance of a student.

"Hhhhmmmm yeah!" Beatrix said, setting down the bottle. "I love iced-tea! Hey look, we got the same things!"

It was true, Yana's tray was identical to Beatrix's. The girl had no idea what food was like here, and the hotpockets she first had were a clear warning to always be cautious. Yana picked up a fork and poked at the mashed potatoes. She did not feel like eating...

Beatrix on the other hand, dug in. She chewed noisily, which was odd to Yana, since the loud noises were coming from such an innocent-looking girl. Yana poked at her mashed potatoes again, then gave them a nibble. Emboldened by the good taste, she took a proper bite.

Yana spent the rest of the short lunch period listening to Beatrix talk about the school. She couldn't keep up with most of her suite-mate's words, but tried to nod along politely. An old bell rang, interrupting their conversation. "Oh! That's first class bell!" Beatrix said. She drained the rest of her ice-tea, then stood. "Do you want me to show you the way to the theater room?"

"Yes please," Yana said, and she meant it.

Beatrix continued to talk as they joined the stream of students. The boys and girls headed for their respective classes, branching off into different hallways in the manor-school. Beatrix led her down a particularly long hall, stopping in front of two wide, oak doors. "Well," She said. "Here it is! I guess I'll see you at dinner!"

Yana nodded. "Thanks Beatrix,"

"You can call me Bee," Beatrix said, beaming. "Bye Yana!"

Yana waved as her suite-mate left. She turned to the doors, and with a deep breath, pushed them inward. She emerged into a small auditorium with a stage and red curtains on one end. Around twenty students sat in the first two rows, waiting. Yana made her way down the aisle, wincing as the oak doors closed heavily behind her. All the students turned, their eyes falling on her. Yana paused, swallowed, and kept walking. She stopped by the third row, where noone was sitting, and took the seat on the end. The students turned back to each other, some whispering.

The red curtains on the stage moved, and an older gentleman with dark skin and a tweed suit emerged. He had a well-kept white beard, and walked with the help of a cane. He came to a stop in the middle of the stage, looking down at the students. "Good afternoon class," He said, his voice deep and soothing like molasses.

"Hello Mr. Wheat," the class answered.

"I see we have a new student with us," Mr. Wheat said, nodding at Yana. "Would you like to stand and introduce yourself?"

Yana's face turned bright red. She slowly stood, her hand feeling for the seat in front of her for support. "Um," She said, her voice cracking. She took a deep breath and tried again. "My name's Yana. Yana Candle,"

"Hello Yana," Mr. Wheat said, nodding. "Do you have any experience with acting?"

Yana looked down at her feet. "No sir,"

"Wrong," Mr. Wheat said, prompting Yana to look back up. He presented the stage with one arm. "We all have experience acting, whether we realize it or not. I'm sure you'll fit right in here with our family Miss Candle,"

Yana glanced at the students in the two rows. They looked back at her, some curious, others unimpressed. "Okay," Yana said. "I'll...try,"

"That's all we ask," Mr. Wheat said, smiling warmly. He turned to the class. "Now, everyone take out your scripts for "Waiting For Godot", we'll be doing Marcus's and Natalie's readings today,"

Yana slowly sank back into her chair as everyone rummaged around their books. She could tell this would be difficult...

That night, the Lower East Side of Manhattan island was filled with the sounds of cars and music. Calebus walked down the street near his apartment building, exhausted. He had spent the whole day, the entire day, washing dishes at a restaurant of one of the refugee families. Eleven hours of near-constant suds and steel wool. All his fellow dishwashers were from the Golgotha Earths, and Calebus didn't speak their version of Indo-greek. Thus, he spent the entire day working in silence.

Now, he walked up the steps of his apartment building, each step a labor in itself. He walked through the door, then climbed up the two flights of stairs to his apartment. Fumbling with the key, Cablus tried to get his worn hands to get it in the lock.

The door opened for him, revealing Ilan and one of her children. "Oh!" She said, a tired smile on her face. "Mr. Candle! Welcome home!"

Calebus nodded to her as he walked into the apartment. "Good evening Ms. Ilan,"

"Where is Yana?" Ilan said, peering out into the hallway.

"She started at the new school today," Calebus said, heading towards the door to his sub-apartment.

"Ah, she must be very happy! Would you like some dinner Mr. Candle?"

Calebus paused by his door, his head hanging from the weight of the day. "Thank you Ilan, but that would be two dinner's you served me, and I'm still paying back what I owe Ma Mel,"

Ilan shook her head. "Mr. Candle! It is alright, you will help me too!"

Calebus thought for a beat, then gave a short laugh. "Yes, thank you Ms. Ilan, that would be lovely. I will try to pay you back with any help you need,"

Ilan smiled. "I'll knock on your door when it's ready,"

Entering his sub-apartment, Calebus slowly closed the door behind him. He let out a sigh, then discarded the jacket Ma Mel and the community had donated. He sat heavily on the sofa, leaning his head back and closing his eyes. The candle still sat on the floor in front of him, its wick dark.

The entire apartment was dark. Calebus didn't bother turning on any lights. He knew if he closed his eyes, he'd pass out. Instead he just stared at the ceiling. Slowly though, his lids drooped.

Calebus woke with a start at a knock on his door. He grabbed his eyes, confused. "Come in!"

The door opened, and Ilan leaned in with a tray of food. "Hello Mr. Candle, oh! Your candle! You lit it!"

"what?" Calebus said, dropping his hand from his eyes. He sat up straight, looking at the candle.



A flame burned at the top of the wick, bathing the ground around it in a small pool of light.

"no," Calebus whispered. He stood up. "n-no! NO!"

"Mr. Candle?" Ilan said, confused. "Is everything alright?"

"NO!" Calebus yelled, running for the door. Ilan yelled out in surprise, getting out of the way. Calebus shot past her, headed for the hall. "Mr. Candle!" She called after him. "what is wrong!"

Calebus didn't hear her. He ran out the apartment door and hit the stairs with heavy stomps. Down one flight, than another, he was practically jumping over the steps. He reached the lobby and burst out the back into the side-street. His feet hit the ground running. His arms pumped, his breath was ragged. He ran by the community garden and the community center, headed for the next street.

He emerged from the side-street onto the main one, startling a young couple with a dog. Calebus ignored their cries of protest as he sprinted past them. His mind was spinning. It wasn't possible. It wasn't possible. It wasn't possible.

Calebus looked around frantically, trying to remember which apartment building was Flinder's. It was the same street he and Yana had walked up and down the first day he had arrived. Now though, it was all a jumble of memories.

Finally, a door he recognized appeared. He ran up it, pulling on the handle and finding it locked. He banged frantically on it, but no-one was in the hall. Calebus searched everywhere for a place to get in, then saw a panel. He quickly consulted it, running his finger down a list of names. He found Flinder's by a button, and started to mash it.

Again and again Calebus pressed the button, his breathing ragged. Finally a voice answered, drifting from a speaker. "Hello?"

"FLINDER!" Calebus yelled. "It's me! Let me in! It's an emergency!"

"ho shit, okay okay, I'm buzzing you up now,"

The door buzzed, and Calebus practically tore it open. He ran inside, reaching the steps and charging up them. Sprinting down the hall, he came to a stop in front of Flinder's door and tried the handle. It was locked. "FLINDER!" Calebus yelled, pounding on the door. "Let me IN!"

The sound of a lock unlocking was heard, then the door swung open. "Okay okay," Flinder said, holding his dog back with one hand. "Hold-" Calebus brushed past him, bumping over a stack of books as he stormed into the apartment. "Hey careful!" Flinder said, closing the door and locking it.

Calebus turned on him, pointing a finger. "You said there wasn't any magic here!"

Flinder looked confused. He glanced at the pile of books Calebus knocked over. "Well...there isn't?"

"There is!" Calebus yelled, still pointing. He turned away, stalking towards the dining room as he gestured in the air. "I made a candle last night, and this evening, it was lit!"

Flinder bent down and picked up his dog, slowly following Calebus into the dining room. Calebus paced back and forth, his expression frantic. "Buddy," Flinder said, setting the dog down. "That's impossible. Someone must have come along and lit it. Your niece maybe,"

"A dead world!" Calebus said, turning on Flinder again. "They call this a dead world!" He gestured. "Well, well, maybe it's coming alive!"

Flinder sighed. He walked to the table and sat, motioning for Calebus to do the same. "Candleman, let's talk," Calebus looked like he was going to explode, but took a deep breath. He slowly sat at the table. "Dead world," Flinder said. "Is actually a misconception. It's not a dead world, it's a chosen world,"

Calebus furrowed his brow. "what?"

"A chosen world," Flinder said, gesturing idly. "The creator god or whatever, he chose the people here to become his heirs. Through like, a purification process or something," Calebus just stared at Flinder, clearly waiting for him to make sense. Flinder shrugged. "Look, the reason there's no magic or chi-power here is because it's not allowed here. This world is like...a testing ground, or a crucible. It's just people here, facing themselves and what they're capable of,"

"that's..." Calebus said. "I've never heard of this,"

"Well sure," Flinder said, shrugging. "Our Earth's are different, and we don't follow the same rules as a Chosen Earth. We have magic and creatures that hunt us and all manner of outside forces that interfere," Flinder tapped the table with a finger. "But that stuff doesn't happen here. It can't happen here. Demons have this world, they're part of the test. But even they don't have magic. And if the demons don't convince you, there's far more powerful beings keeping watch over this place,"

"A....test world?" Calebus repeated.

"It's why people flee to dead Earth's from other Earths," Flinder said. "We're not a part of this test or whatever, it's not like we're going to become gods. But we can hide here, and the rules that protect this place also protect us. So you see..." Flinder tried to give Calebus a supportive look. "Your magic candle didn't light itself, someone else did. Because again, it is impossible for magic to exist here,"

Calebus shook his head. "This...test, what does it look?"

Flinder shrugged. "I don't really understand it myself. Good and evil are...different, in this world. According to some scholars though, it ends with an Apocalypse,"

"Apocalypse myth," Calebus repeated. "Those have magic!"

"Well sure, our myths do. Because our apocalypse isn't going to be a judgement day like their's is, if you believe that sort of thing,"

Calebus stood. "You're wrong Flinder, something's wrong here. Magic is present. I know it,"

"And I'm telling you Candleman, even if magic were possible here, any trace of it would bring demons down so quickly we wouldn't have time to grab our ankles,"

Calebus stared a beat longer at Flinder. "Do you have animal fat?"

Flinder looked confused. "No?"

Without another word, Calebus left the apartment.

Once back in his own building, he went door-to door collecting as much animal fat as he could. He also met many of his neighbors, though the names and faces all blurred together. Once he had a sizable pot of fat, he returned to his own apartment.

"Oh! Mr. Candle!" Ilan said, opening the door for him. "You are scaring me sometimes, I never know what is happening!"

"I'm so sorry Ms Ilan," Calebus said, walking in with the pot of animal fat. "I promise I'll make it up to you. Do you need the stove right now?"

Ilan shook her head. "No Mr. Candle, are you making more candles?"

Calebus set the pot down on the counter with a heavy thud. He turned to Ilan, a serious expression on his face. "Yes Ilan. Yes I am.

Ilan seemed to consider this, worry on her face. "What kind of candles Mr. Candle?"

[] Make a batch of Perception Candles
[] Make a batch of Protection Candles
[] Make a batch of Burning Flame Candles

 

[Aoinfinity]

[X] Make a batch of Protection Candles

 

[SleepMode]

[X] Make a batch of Protection Candles

 

[Reinholdt]

[X] Make a batch of Perception Candles

You need to know what is coming before you can prep for it. Currently there are contradictions, we need clarity.

 

[TimEd]

we'll doing Marcus's and Natalie's readings

Click to shrink...

we'll be doing
We're doing


[X] Make a batch of Perception Candles

I assume Ma Mel or someone here has a gun. So this should be worth the risk for concrete knowledge

 

[Lop]

[X] Make a batch of Protection Candles

Click to shrink...

[X] Make a batch of Protection Candles

Click to shrink...

[X] Make a batch of Perception Candles

You need to know what is coming before you can prep for it. Currently there are contradictions, we need clarity.

Click to shrink...

we'll be doing
We're doing


[X] Make a batch of Perception Candles

I assume Ma Mel or someone here has a gun. So this should be worth the risk for concrete knowledge

Click to shrink...

[X] Make a batch of Protection Candles (x2)
[X] Make a batch of Perception Candles (x2)

"Several batches," Calebus said, turning back to the stove. Ilan and two of her children watched him work until the smell drove them from the kitchen. Calebus took great handfuls of fat and worked them in the pot. He smoothed and shaped them, whispering ancient words as he hung them to dry. The only sound besides his whispers was the animal fat bubbling on the stove. Soon enough, four strings of candles hung above the kitchen. Calebus pulled up a chair from the table and watched them dry. He thought many thoughts as he did.

Dead World. Chosen World. No magic. Magic. All these things swirled in his mind. His candle catching fire meant there was magic, there was no other way for it to happen. And if there was magic, that was very, very bad. And yet...how? There were rules for every Earth, Flinder was right about that. Most of the rules were the same. Ancient, immutable laws that could not be contradicted. So what was happening on this world?

When the candles dried, Calebus rose. He took down one string of protection candles, carefully working them free. He gingerly gathered them and went around the apartment. Four candles by the front door, six in his sub-apartment. The first candle he had made was now a melted puddle of wax. Calebus ignored it as he hurried back to the kitchen.

He took down another string of protection candles, carefully wrapping them in plastic bags Ilan had under the sink. He finished, then put them in a box. Next he took down a string of perception candles. Four went in front of the door, the other six in his apartment. Like the second batch of protection candles, Calebus wrapped the second batch of perception candles in bags.

Calebus heard a noise as he put the wrapped candles in his box. He turned, spotting one of Ilan's children peeking around the corner of the hallway into the kitchen. "Oh, hello," Calebus said. The child was a young boy, wearing a large green hoodie. "What's your name?"

The boy was silent, clearly uncertain of both the lingering smell and the candles on either side of the front door. Finally he looked at Calebus. "Hokan,"

"It's nice to finally meet you," Calebus said. "Are you brave enough to do me a favor Hokan?" The boy nodded. Calebus pointed at the candles by the front door. "Can you tell your mom, that if she sees any of those candles light up, to hide in my apartment with all of you?" The boy looked confused, and Calebus did his best to smile. "I have to run an errand, but it's very important you tell your mother this. Understand? If she sees any of the candles catch fire, that means trouble. She has to run into my apartment with you all, and call the police. Can you do that for me?" Hokan nodded. Calebus stood with the box of wrapped candles and headed for the door. "Good man, you'll do your mother proud one day,"

Once outside in the crisp evening air, Calebus jogged to Flinder's apartment one and a half streets over. He ran up the steps, resting the box against the wall to press the door button. After the third ring, Flinder answered through the intercom. "Yes?"

"Flinder, it's Calebus again. I need a ride to my niece's highschool,"

Flinder was silent for a beat. "uhhh, right now?"

Calebus pressed the button. "Yes right now!"

"Okay okay, jeeze, they say never meet your heroes. I'll be right down,"

After a few moments, Flinder appeared in the lobby. He wore a bathrobe and shorts, and had his dog on a leash. Calebus was confused as the man walked outside. "You're bringing your dog with us?"

"Oh ho whoaaaa," Flinder said, holding up a palm. He took out a phone with his other hand. "I don't have a car. Do you know how expensive they are to have in the city?" He tapped out something on the phone screen. "No, on this Earth, we poor people use something called Lyft. Or Uber if you want to be an asshole,"

Calebus slowly nodded. "And that's like, a taxi?"

"It's exactly like a taxi," Flinder said, finishing out typing. "But you can't get scammed! I'm telling you man, they get creative here without magic," He pocketed the phone. "Say, whatchu got there?" Calebus tilted the box, letting Flinder see inside. The man lowered his aviators. "Oh wow! Are those legendary Candleman candles?? These would be really cool if they could do anything! You gotta let me have one! And you gotta sign it!"

"Hm," Calebus said, righting the box. He fished out a candle and passed it to Flinder. "I would set it by a door, if I were you,"

Flinder's dog pulled at the leash, though Flinder ignored its yelps. He took the candle, trying to peer at it through the plastic bag. "Sooo...you're taking them to Madison Prep? Why?"

"Just a hunch," Calebus said, almost to himself.

"C'mon man, you don't really think there's magic here, do you?"

A black Toyota pulled up. Calebus pointed at it. "Is that mine?"

Flinder nodded. "Yup,"

"Just put that candle by your door," Calebus said, walking to the car.

"Do you need a ride back?" Flinder called after him. "These rides aren't that cheap,"

"Yes, a ride back! I promise I'll pay you back!" Calebus said, opening the door. He paused before he got in. "And you never know, that candle might just save your life,"

Calebus got in and closed the door. He was nervous as the Lyft drove him through the city. He counted the candles over and over, wondering if they would be enough. He was ashamed to admit it, but he regretted giving one to Flinder. Would there be enough for Yana now?"

The Lyft pulled up to the black iron gate, then stopped. Calebus leaned forward. "Can you get them to let us in?"

The driver laughed. "No sir, that's not how this works. If they won't let you in, they won't let me in. But there's a buzzer it looks like, if you want to get out and press it,"

Calebus hurried to open his door and get out of the Lyft with the box. He ran to the gate, pressing the box to it to mash the buzzer. A gruff male voice answered. "hello, Madison Prep,"

"This is Calebus Candle, Yana Candle's uncle! I need to get her something important!"

"Hold on,"

A golf cart appeared from around the school. Calebus watched it cross the small campus, stopping in front of the gate. Two burly security guards got out, shining flashlights on Calebu's face. "Visiting hours are over sir,"

"Please, it's an emergency," Calebus said, hefting the box to show them. "She needs these,"

The security guards shared a look. One of them turned away, speaking into a radio. After a few moments, he turned back. "You got some I.D Mr. Candle?"

Calebus froze, then set the box down. "Yes, yes I do," He said, checking over his jacket. He fished out an I.D Ma Mel gave him, passing it between the bars. The security guard's checked it over, each taking a turn shining their flashlight on it. Finally one of them passed it back. "We'll let you in the lobby, she can come down and grab them,"

Calebus breathed a sigh of relief. "thank you...thank you..."

The gates opened, and Calebus waved to his driver that he would be right back. He ran in, climbing into the golf-cart with the security guards. It only took ten seconds to drive from the gate to the front of the school. The security walked Calebus up the steps and through the front door.

Headmistress Mauve was waiting in the reception foyer next to the grand staircase. She wore a sleeping gown, and was slightly irratated.

"Ahh yes Mr. Candle," She said. "I thought this might happen. A student's first night is always a test. They forget their toothbrushes, or their insulin, or their teddybears. But you must understand, you cannot always come running to deliver it,"

"Yes, sorry," Calebus said, ducking his head. "This was...particularly important,"

Yana appeared at the top of the grand staircase wearing pajamas. She rubbed one eye with her hand as she descended. "Uncle? Is everything alright?"

"Hey Yana," Calebus said. "How was your first day?"

"umm," Yana said, reaching the bottom. She was still clearly half-asleep.

"No matter," Calebus said, shoving the box into her hands. "You know what to do with these,"

Yana blinked, confused, then looked into the box. Recognition crossed her face. She looked back up, startled. "Uncle?"

Calebus looked at her solemnly. "doors and windows," he reminded her, his voice barely audible.

Yana also lowered her voice. "are we in trouble?"

"Just, set those up. Understand?"

Yana nodded, trying her best to not panic. "okay uncle,"

Calebus turned, nodding to the Headmistress. "Thank you,"

"We shall see you Friday, Mr. Candle," The woman said. "Hopefully,"

With that, Calebus returned to his driver. When he was dropped off at his apartment, he spent the rest of the evening in his sub-apartment, sitting cross-legged on the floor. He was surrounded by perception candles.

The next morning, in the large brick manor that housed Madison Prep, Yana woke up to the sound of movement. She opened her eyes, blinking, and sat up.

She was very confused. She was in a nice room, in a comfortable bed, surrounded by posters and plants. Her memory slowly came back, and Yana put a hand to her face.

"oooohhhhh!" A voice said. Yana turned to see Beatrix inspecting several candles along the windowsill of their room. The girl was dressed in bright pajamas adorned with flower print. "Where did these come from!"

Yana slowly untangled herself from her sheets, resting her feet on the cool wooden floor. "My uncle brought them last night..." She rubbed her eyes. "I honestly thought it was a dream,"

"Why did he bring them?" Betrix said, picking one up. "ooohhh, there's patterns on them! They're so pretty!"

Yana looked up from resting her face in her hands. "Did you say there was patterns on them?"

Beatrix nodded, setting one down and picking up another. "Yup! They all do!"

Standing, Yana walked over to the window. It looked out over the small campus, and the skyscrapers beyond the gate. Yana picked up one of the protection candles and inspected it. "that...can't be right," She set it back down, taking the one in Beatrix's hand.

The girl seemed surprised. "I'm sorry, is something wrong?"

"I don't know," Yana said, setting the candle on the ledge. Her stomach growled, prompting Beatrix to smile.

"C'mon! Let's go grab breakfast!"

Yana followed Beatrix out into the common room. A strong, delicious smell wafted into Yana's nose. Claudette and Jessica were already in the room, both sitting at the table. Claudette wore an expensive-looking morning robe. She sipped from a mug of dark liquid as she looked at her phone. Jessica sat across from her, eating from a small cup of yogurt. She too was looking at her phone. Neither spoke, or looked up, as the girls entered.

"Oh!" Yana said. "I recognize that smell! That's coffee!" She looked at Claudette's mug, a horrified expression on her face. "Wait, you're drinking coffee?? Isn't that illegal??"

Claudette looked up from her phone, clearly irritated. "Of course it's legal, what are you talking about?"

"I..." Yana said, confused. "but...back where I come from it's illegal...and people our age certainly can't have it..."

"Now I know you're an idiot," Claudette said, looking down at her phone dismissively. "I thought you were from Italy,"

Yana said nothing as she stood there, completely shocked. Beatrix tugged on her sleeve. "C'mon, we have to stock our own food for breakfast, or go down to the dining hall, but it's noisy. You can have cereal with me if you want!"

"Good lord Beatrix please turn it down a notch," Claudette said. Jessica still hadn't spoken a word, simply staring at her phone with an unreadable expression.

Beatrix looked hurt, but quickly recovered, humming to herself as she took a box of cereal and milk from the fridge. "I hope you don't mind almond, I'm lactose intolerant,"

"that's...fine, thank you,"

Claudette and Jessica promptly left for their room as Yana and Beatrix sat down. Yana poked at the cereal with a spoon, then tried a handful. "Oh!" She said, her face lighting up. "This is really good!"

"It's the leprechaun on the box," Beatrix said, pointing at it with a spoon. "He makes them all magically delicious,"

Yana looked up sharply. "Did you say magic?"

Beatrix laughed. "I'm not serious Yana! Jeeze, Italy must be so weird!" Suddenly, a deep, old bell rang. It reverberated through the school. "Oh!" Beatrix said. "That's first bell! We have ten more minutes to get to class!"

Yana stood with Beatrix and rushed to their room. The girl quickly got into her uniform, fumbling with the tie. She turned to her roommate. "Umm, Beatrix, I'm sorry, but-"

"Ha! You'll get it. Meet me out in the main room and I'll do it there, I've just got to grab something!"

Yana walked out into the main room and sat on the arm rest of the sofa. Both Claudette and Jessica emerged from their room, looking pristine and sharp. They walked with raised chins, pointedly ignoring Yana as they left the room. As the door closed, Beatrix emerged.

"Okay!" she said, adjusting her uniform jacket. "Let's get that tie fixed!"

First period was a class called Advanced English. Yana sat near the back of the class, surrounded by people she didn't recognize. The students all wore the same uniform as she did, but didn't seem to pay her any mind. Yana spent the class listening to an older woman drone on about sentence diagrams in olde english works. It was very difficult, as not all the rules for this English seemed to be the same as Yana's English. In fact, there were quite a few absurdities with the olde english as well. Yana did her best to sit through it.

The next class was something known as Advanced Geometry. Yana wondered if all the classes were advanced, and if so, should she really be in them? Luckily Advanced Geometry turned out to be a weird name for Alnumatics, something Yana was very familiar with. This teacher was a younger man with glasses, eager to draw things out of the students. Yana watched as others raised their hands, being called upon for questions and answers. Suddenly, the teacher turned to her.

"What about you Miss Candle, what would be the next step in Elucid's Vision Geometry problem?"

Proofs were strange to her, and were not something shared by Alnumatics. She tried her best however. "Umm, angle S2 equals angle A2?"

"Correct! Very good Miss Candle, I see you'll do just fine here,"

The next class was history. This one Yana shared with Claudette, though her suite-mate sat on the opposite side, and did not look at her once. Yana did not recognize anyone else.

"And so," An older gentleman said, his voice gravely. "It was Ivan the Great who would go on to establish the Muscovite princedoms as a "third Rome", with his marriage to Sophia Palailogina of the late Eastern Roman Empire,"

Yana tried to follow, but it was overwhelming. Was each class like this? Did they all just sit in rooms and listen to lecturers? Yana had heard of such things back home, but those were elite schools for the rich. As Yana looked around, she realized with a jolt that she was in one of those schools now.

The bell rang, and Yana rose with the other students. She tried to catch up to Claudette as they filed out of the room. "Claudette!" Yana called. "Claudette!"

The girl shot back an irritated glance. "what!"

"oh, nothing," Yana said, suddenly feeling embarrassed. "I was just wondering where you were going next..."

"Lunch, obviously," Claudette said, disappearing into the hall.

Yana stood there as other students filed out around her. "oh,"

She made her way to the dining hall with the hoards of chattering students. Yana felt awful at having been brushed off by Claudette, though she couldn't say why. If she didn't know any better, Yana would say she was having flashbacks to her old Viper School...

Someone nudged against her as she waited in line for the dining hall. Yana looked to see Beatrix bump up next to her. "Hi Yana!"

"Oh, hi Beatrix,"

"Bee," Beatrix said, raising an eyebrow. "Only my parents and teachers call me Beatrix,"

Yana tried to give her a smile. "ah, got it,"

Beatrix took out a phone from her pocket, showing Yana the screen. "Give me your number! We're roommates so we should have each others! Obviously we're not supposed to have them in class, but we're all pretty good at hiding them,"

"I uh, don't have one,"

Beatrix's eyes grew wide. "You don't have a phone! How is that possible! Everyone has a phone!"

"Yeah, they...weren't that important back in Italy," Yana furrowed her brow, sniffing. "Hey Beatr-....Bee, do you smell that?"

Beatrix sniffed, then looked surprised. "Something's burning!" She looked down at her jacket. "I'm burning!" Sure enough, smoke trailed out from Beatrix's jacket. She opened it, revealing a candle tucked in the pocket. It was burning, lighting the fabric on fire. "HELP!" Beatrix yelled, struggling with her jacket.

Yana was quick. She grabbed Beatrix with one hand, ripping out the candle from her jacket with the other. She beat at the fire with her hand, dampening it to smoke. All the students around them talked at once, taking steps back.

"What!" Yana said, looking from Beatrix, to the burning candle on the floor.

"I'm sorry!" Beatrix said, hiding her face behind her hands. "Please don't be mad! I thought they were so pretty and wanted to show one to my friends in Garden club!"

"wait, that's one of mine??" Yana said, her heart pounding. She dropped to the floor and scooped up the candle, turning it over in her fingers. It was a perception candle. "oh...shit..." She clamored to her feet, gripping the candle with one hand and grabbing Beatrix's hand with the other. "C'mon!" Yana yelled, tugging Beatrix along.

"Ow! I said I'm sorry! Please don't be mad at me!" Yana continued to drag Beatrix along, reaching the grand staircase in the reception foyer. She ran up it, pulling her roommate behind her. "Please, if you would just let me explain!"

Yana turned on her at the top of the stairs, getting in the girl's face. "Beatrix, I'm not mad at you, we're in danger,"

Beatrix seemed confused, her lip quivering. "wha-what?"

Yana held up the candle, its wick lit. "This is a perception candle. It can do a lot of things, and one of the most important is telling me when I'm in danger,"

"wha-what kind of danger?"

The sound of floorboards creaking drew their attention. At the bottom of the stairs was a man in an elaborate black suit. He wore a black costume mask, and carried what looked like a massive instrument case on his back. He stared up at the girls on the landing.

"that kind," Yana said, her voice barely a whisper. The man raised his hand, and shadows shot up the stairs, climbing them like snakes. Yana grabbed Beatrix's wrist. "RUN! THAT'S A SHADOW MAGE!"

Beatrix squealed in terror as Yana pulled her down the hall. The entire second level seemed empty, all the students having gone to the dining room. There were no teachers either on the student floors, or the headmistress. It was just Yana and Beatrix, alone in the hall.

"Y-yana!" Beatrix said, slowing down. "My feet feel like rocks! I can't run!"

A moment later, it hit Yana too. A strange blue wave covered the hall, basking it in strange, twinkling light. "Ocean Mage," Yana said, her voice muffled. "They're trying to restrict our movement,"

A woman appeared at the end of the hall. She wore a fanciful black suit as well, and a blue costume mask. She raised her hand, and an eel made of color floated down the fall. Yana struggled to push against the ocean magic weighing her down, and slowly shoved Beatrix out of the way of the eel. Beatrix fell in slow motion to the floor. Yana heard a noise and turned.

The shadow mage had appeared at the top of the stairs, the instrument case still on his back.

"shit!" Yana said, looking between to the two.

[] Send Beatrix running to your room, attack the Ocean Mage as a distraction
[] Send Beatrix running to your room, attack the Shadow Mage as a distraction
[] Both make a run for the room

 

[Lop]

Extra post today to try and get some more readers. Appreciate you guys following along so far, let's see where you take it!