New Becomings (Private;Ceblair)

"GYWAAAAH!"

Kaboosh! Two bandits fell face first on the ground with their rears held high. And who stood behind them? Isaac Anicetus, a Rune Knight with a power to be reckoned with. He was slowly working his way up in his alignment, but it seemed that mediocre robberies never seemed to stop.

Isaac sighed and brushed his hair back with an irritated expression. "You guys have some nerve coming to Magnolia with that sort of behavior..." He crossed his arms and glared down to the criminals with rubbish daggers loosely gripped in their hands. The two fidgeted and twitched until they finally stumbled to their feet again, a look of disgust and hatred on their faces.

"You're just Rune Knight scum! How are the littler guys gonna make a livin' when you bastards keep on gettin' in the way?!" A short, messy haired young man protested, the taller one next to him glaring and nodding in agreement.

Frankly, Isaac couldn't find the time in his day to care about what they had to say. But he listened anyway. After they finished their rambling, Isaac gently grabbed the hilt of his sheathed sword. "I don't know, nor do I care. I'm simply here to protect the peace, now get lost. Or else I will have to..-"

"ALRIGHT! Alright! We're leaving!" They growled, dropping their weapons and dashing off with looks of fright and disgust to their faces. And it was a that moment that Isaac let go of the hilt to his blade, looking at the crowding citizens and frowning. "As you were." He forced an assuring smile, hearing the murmurs fade to silence and watching the people dispersing back into the streets. Going on patrol was not always so boring, he never came across anything so complex, though. It was always robberies or muggings or simple disturbances of peace by mediocre criminals. And although enforcing justice was apart of his daily routine, it was bland and tasteless.

He was close to making a name for himself in the streets of Magnolia, since he was one of few Rune Knights to patrol it so consistently. But, it seemed that he had done enough for the hour, and needed some time to himself. Though, he was sure he'd be pestered with the trivial request of others the moment they saw his Rune Knight symbol on the back of his neck. He almost regretted putting it there. Though, he never saw the day he'd say it was tired out by doing his job.

And with that in mind, Isaac sighed and wiped his forehead, scanning the streets before heading towards a bar.

The train's rattling felt almost like an eternity to him, before he finally stepped off of it. As soon as he got out, he stretched his back and his healthy arm. He adjusted the sword at his side, put on his hood and made his way into the city itself.

The young man has been travelling for a bit now, but had yet to come across a city as big as the legendary Magnolia. /"Much more lively and vibrant than what I'm used to."/ He thought to himself as he was walking down one of the bigger streets. Looking around him, besides the amount of people walking up and down, he spotted a variety of stores, selling things from groceries to magic potions. As his sight went over the grocery store, his stomach growled. /"I guess I didn't eat while I was in the train..."/ He winced and entered the store.

Shortly after he emerged with a chocolate filled puff pastry in his hand. It disappeared as quickly as he bought it, but his belly was satisfied with it. The young man wanted to look around the city a tiny bit more, before he went to hunt to for accomodation, when he heard some commotion down the street. He switched to a quicker tempo as he approached the scene. However, when he got there, it was already resolved, as a pair of shabby-looking people fled, leaving a man standing there by himself. Judging by the way the people slowly dispersed, it seemed like a minor crime might've taken place, but nothing big to worry about.

The lone man then wiped his forehead and started making his way to his destination. The young man was still curious, though. Was that how problems were solved around these parts? He would set on his quicker tempo once again, to slightly catch up with him. When he felt like the other would hear him without having to yell across the street, he would ask: "Excuse me. Would you mind telling me as to what happened here?"

And just as he predicted, Isaac was questioned by some hooded stranger who's gentle breathe wreaked of faint, chocolaty sweetness. He raised a brow questionably, not thrilled by the question. It certainly wasn't anything too surprising. He supposed that anyone would be curious of what happened after an event like that, but to Isaac, this was perhaps, a normal afternoon. He sighed, cold golden eyes fixed to the stranger before him. "Another mugging, executed by two skinny young men. The victim's description will go unsaid. Magnolians seem to be used to this kind of activity... are you new here?" He spoke softly, but sternly. He unwillingly attempted to make conversation, thinking that it would rid of his intimidating demeanor to the public.

Isaac was... more or less, socially awkward. And could only make conversation if he went out of his way on his time to do so, which, he dreadfully abhorred. That, and he was naturally unapproachable. He had an introverted nature and a cold, merciless spark in his voice. He was a workaholic and determined for work. There was not many that could initiate a friendship or conversation with him unless he was the one to do it. And if he did speak, it was to answer questions or request something. Or perhaps, demand something.

But, Isaac had been to a lot of places around Fiore. Many towns, villages, and ports. He had met all kinds of different people and many had remembered his name to his simple deeds. Deeds so simple, it leveled to the deed of one who helped the elderly cross the road or help carry groceries. These were truly mediocre things to be remembered for, it was almost embarrassing. But, he respected his job and found no shame in doing good for others. He found it more of a job than a personal goal. As long as it aligned with his morals.

But, he was troubled with the idea of talking to this person, but trying to be open-minded with his innocent intention.

When the man spoke to him, his demeanor seemed on the more colder side, much like himself. The "I'd rather keep distance, but I'll talk if I have to" kind. He seemed to be surprised by his question to certain degree, though. But he did answer his question at least, though. /"So a mugging happened here.."/ The answer sounded professional, though. The other must've had previous experience with such situations.

However, he said that the people are used to such behaviour. Were they, really? Story of such an act would make its round around the place he came from really fast, and people would make their own theories and rumours and then spread them further. Aaand in the end forget all about that. A vicious circle, of sorts. He didn't anticipate people thinking this differently, than he was. Then again, he was not used to being in such a big city.

The young man would reply the other: "I.. Yes. You could say, that I'm not from around these parts." He was hoping that he wasn't revealing too much about himself to a random stranger. The more he thought about it, he came to a conclusion that it wouldn't hurt to know somebody in this giant city. "Are people really this indifferent in these matters around here?" The young man added a moment after. He really wanted to know the true depth of the difference.

Isaac couldn't help but let his forced smile fade into a blank expression, which could be described as a frown. But, his golden eyes didn't lighten any mood. And if it meant anything, this stranger seemed just as distant and straightforward as him. The thought brought some comfort with it, but not much to divert his goal of getting some alone time. But, he listened to his words attentively, but reluctantly. Though he didn't have much regard or consideration for open chit chatter with strangers, he saw it as an obligation to do such things on behalf on serving the Magic Council. Or perhaps it was a mindset he forced himself to believe. It wasn't exactly a concern of his. But nevertheless, he felt a need to become more open-minded and less introverted than anything if he wanted to get business done.

But with thoughts aside, and with the man's words fading to silence in wait for his response, Isaac looked to him with the same cold eyes and sighed. "I see. It's easy to get lost in Magnolia at this hour. As for the people, Magnolians are diverse in both mind and body. These muggings are simply the acts of the desperate. But, they are nothing but criminals as far as I can tell." He gently grabbed the hilt of his sword, needing to his his hand busy with the rough texture of the metal. "My name is Isaac Anicetus, I am a soldier of the Rune Knights and under direct command of my superiors or the Magic Council. If it may entice your interest, I would gladly escort you around town if desired."

The words had rolled off his tongue as sharp as a blade and as cold as ice, he was horrified by the thought. But after a few moments of reflection, the thought was not so bad. "I apologize... 'escort' was the inappropriate use of language. Would you like to get a drink?"

The first step to opening up to others was to engage in conversation. So far...

Isaac didn't like it.

The other man was indeed as reserved as the young man was, which brought him some sort of comfort, in a way. It almost felt like he forced himself to speak, for which the young man almost felt bad for making him do. For some reason, the curiosity got the better of him in this case. If he were to live the life of a mage, he'd need to know everything there is to know about such a life. For a moment he thought of his decision, but quickly swept these useless thoughts away. /"I've come too far to go back like a coward."/

For a moment the question hung in air, before it was answered by the other. According to him, the people living in this city - Magnolians - were really a diverse group of citizens. These mugging were done by the desperate ones. They've apparently only done minor crimes such as those. However, the other also gave him his name - Isaac Anicetus, and in addition, his occupation aswell - soldier of the Rune Knights. /"I'll make sure to remember the name."/ He would think to himself.

Rune Knight, huh. He was told that he's under the Magic Council. The young man wasn't sure whether he could join such an organization, but he'd certainly had to ask more about that. However, he also received a sort of an invitation for a drink. As if someone up there could read his thoughts. He knew that it probably wouldn't be a good idea under normal circumstances, but "Rune Knight" sure sounded proud and important. Not that he didn't know about their existence, but beside that, he knew very little.

With a slight step back with his right foot, his prosthetic arm over his chest and a medium bow, the young man would introduce himself aswell. "I am Ceblair T'il. A travelling swordsman, for now." He would then straighten his back again, and let his arm slide back to his side. His formal side was demanding its spotlight, once again. With a stern face he would also add his answer to the invitation. "I wouldn't mind. If I won't be disturbing your rest of the day, that is." The last thing Ceblair wanted was to butt into someone else's business, where he clearly didn't belong.

It was quite the unique name that the stranger had given him: Celbair T'il. Frankly, he didn't come across such pronunciations most every day. But he'd be unwise to say such things when his name in of itself was hard to gently roll off the tongue in comparison to other names. Unfortunately, he had a younger sister who had aligned herself with those who breed cruelty and madness, forcing him to think that she is nothing but bloodthirsty scum. But, he himself, was not pure of those faults. He believed that it was fine and right to choose your own path, but he didn't need to agree with it.

Which is why he joined the Rune Knights, to cease the bloodshed and to maintain balance between both light and dark. Which is more than likely, why he favored independent guilds. Joining the ranks created many opportunities for him. But, he was lost in thought again. Shaking the thoughts into nothing and returning into the reality, Isaac chuckled to Celbair's introduction. "Please, feel free to drop the formalities. Come." He averted his gaze immediately from Celbair and onto the cobblestone path in front of them, leading him to the nearest bar.

But, as they worked through the busy streets of Magnolia, and resisting the tempting, desirable scents that fled from the crowded restaurants. It was a realization that struck him, so, he decided to pursue it. "So you bound by the sword, yes? Charming. But tell me, Celbair, where does your alignment stand?" He did not dare to look him in the eye, making his demeanor even more unapproachable than it was before. But was this man in a guild? If so, which? Isaac could not differentiate the values in the questions but believed he'd gain both personal and professional benefits from such information.

When Isaac told him to drop the formalities with a chuckle, he felt somewhat embarrased, that his formal side got the better of him... again. That was one of things that Ceblair just couldn't get rid of, no matter how hard he tried. Old habits die hard, don't they? Regardless, it seemed that Isaac wasn't doing anything in particular, which made Ceblair feel a little bit more at ease. He would nod, as he followed Isaac down the street.

They went by an another array of shops, but mostly restaurants. The smells wafting through the air made Ceblair think of all the meals he had skipped lately, due to his travels. /"Perhaps I'll travel around to eat. And protect people along the way, of course."/ The young man thought, amusingly, but quickly swayed it away. He was looking around with his yellow eyes, trying to gather as much information as he could. Isaac spoke up, however, so he switched his attention to the more import matter at hand.

The young man noticed that he didn't look at him, and decided to just look ahead of them, as he formulated his answer. His allegiance? That was one interesting question. A quite baffling one at that. It would've been better if Ceblair himself knew the right answer. Was there a right answer, though? He had no idea. So honesty would have to cut it, for this time. "I am with nobody. I am but a traveler, for now. I'd like to see where the wind carries me next, before I have to make a decision on who to aid. But hopefully somebody, who will help me protect those, who need it." It was the truth, for now. Joining a guild seemed tempting, as he'd like to better understand his power, but which guild, was the real question. A question, for which he was far from answering for now.

Isaac turned to exchange a glimpse of Ceblair, who's gaze seemed to be wavering as they passed down the lane of tasty scents which would tug at them ever so gently. He couldn't blame him, and although Isaac wasn't much of a sweets person, it was certainly a fetching flavor to be reckoned with. He had only tried a few of them though, but was fully convinced on why Magnolian treats and goodies were so desirable. Some more expensive than others, however.

But it is with that note that Isaac turned back to face the road ahead of them, with no regard as to make eye contact with Ceblair. He, personally, welcomed conversation, but something held him back from properly engaging in it. "It's quite the experience, not being with anyone. Get to see places like this... quite marvelous, is it not? If you are so willing to explore what Fiore has to offer, I could gladly feed you with the information of my allegiance, if you so desire." He spoke with the same frown as before, but his tone softer than normal. He didn't want to sound too harsh. And more than likely with most conversations, he didn't care how the words came off of his tongue, to most.

But, he was busy with his plans with his career. Building relations with guilds, taking on the personal favor to guide and lead those of his rank, patrolling Magnolia until he believed that he had done enough. None of it was stressful, just time consuming. But he had believed it was worthwhile. "I reckon that it may entice your interests." there was no real variation in the coldness in his voice, but as he made his way through the crowds, he found himself closer to the odor of alcohol and sweet coffee, a tight-knit place where he often visited when he was done with his work. If anything, it was a last resort... considering that he only cared about work and himself. When he couldn't find relaxation and pleasure in either, he would come to this bar. Which, wasn't often.

Marvelous? Not really, in Celbair's eyes. But then again... Years ago, even a few months back, he thought that he was content, living the life of a swordsman at a training school. Then the possibility of him settling down and have a family... But now, after he started travelling as a mage, not just a mere swordsman, he felt an insatiable wanderlust in his veins. As if the wind, of which power he held, wanted him to give in and explore. Have great adventures and amass stories to tell, when he goes back. Would he ever go back, however, after all that happened...?

/"It's all in the past now, Ceblair. You're here now, focus on the present."/ He reprimanded himself, in his thoughts. There was no time for such thinking right now. He would nod at Isaac's words, though. Isaac's face didn't give off much, as expected. He did notice a shift in the smell around, however. The smells of delicious meals and desserts chenged into a more specific smell of alcohol. Some pubs or bars must've been around. Perhaps the bar Isaac was leading him to was around here?

When Isaac suggested that it may interest him, his curiosity got peaked, once again. "Sure, I wouldn't mind listening. I've been sort of living under a metaphorical rock, for the most of my life." Ceblair would admit with a light shrug with his healthy shoulder.

Isaac felt the scent of alcohol and other sweet beverages begin to pinch at him with a much more stronger smell. Not strong enough for it to be overwhelming, just enough to make everyone aware that this lane had been dedicated to more mature items, but teens would sneak in time and time for a drink. The thought made him curl his lips into a half-smile. What a rowdy town this was. But, if anything, it had no notability to it besides the fact he always had something to do when it came to work.

"Excellent. I'll start as simply as possible: The Rune Knights are a group of people from all over the world, if even from this world, who maintain the peace and balance in Fiore. People join for a variety of reasons. Some like I, wish to enforce proper justice and to keep balance between both Legal Guilds and Dark Guilds, no matter my morals. It is almost at a fault that I have the feeling of obligation to protect these people by my blade." He spoke apathetically, still reserved and not exactly sure how to tone his voice for these words appropriately. He had always had this trouble, expressing his feelings and words to sync with one another. Often enough, he only chose one.

"There are other small benefits and activities as well... such as travelling, housing, exploration... you truly get to see every inch of Fiore through this line of work. In fact, I own a residence in at least four towns and villages. All of the places I've been. You meet all kinds of people, and hone upon your skills along the way." This last part, Isaac cared little for. He was a basic workaholic who put work before anything else. And it didn't help that there was always something to work on. But he didn't mind. He enjoyed it. He felt as if he were doing the world good. "If you're interested, feel free to confront me at any time."

As the smell of the alcohol steadily grew stronger, Isaac got to explaining his occupation and what it entails. According to him, Rune Knights weren't a guild, per say, but people, who upheld balance and justice in the world. A sort of a step in between the guilds and the Magic Council. These people apparently get to travel where they are needed, so they are not neccessarily bound to one city or area. The more Isaac spoke, the more Ceblair liked the sound of being a Rune Knight.

When the option of honing skills arose, however, Ceblair got truly interested. Having been brought up in a place where you constantly had to get better if you were to stay, honing skills was something that became a great part of his everyday life and also transferred to his personality. However, as good as all the things Isaac spoke about were, the young man knew that he shouldn't be too hasty with his decisions. This one, just like the one to go on this journey, were directly tied to his future and will drastically change its current flow.

Ceblair would slightly cock his head to the side. "I think that I'll still have to think about it, no matter how tempting it may seem." He would say with a calm voice. "What does such work, entail, if I may ask?" He would add quickly after. He still will need to know more, before making any decisions.

As the duo kept on walking, a few bars emerged. The smell grew steadily more intense and left Ceblair wondering as to which bar was their destination. /"Who knows, maybe they will serve some food there aswell."/ He wondered briefly, as Isaac lowered his head and answered his previous question.

It was pretty much everything he thought about. He certainly didn't expect it to be a walk through the park. Although, he has never actually killed a living thing with his blade, which somewhat scared him. Did he condemn himself to resort himself to kill by choosing to live this life of a mage...? The swordman school teachings were about protecting, that was the way of the sword Ceblair has learned. He would have to think about it a bit more, when he's on his own, later.

However, the young man would nod his hooded head at Isaac's answer. "I see. Thank you for the answer, Isaac." Ceblair would thank him, as they marched on towards a bar, staying quiet, unless the other thought otherwise.