Ch 1a - Oceancrest - College of Water (Amocin)

The Gift is Given

Setting: The Dragon wakes to find herself sitting in a very similar throne from whence she came, however, this chair has been tainted by age and miss use. The room itself was made of stone and was dark, save for two braziers on either side of the chair. The flickering orange light cast some illumination on various drawings on the stone walls. They were pictures of Dragons fighting in seemingly epic battles, the emphasis of the pictures, however, were on the Men riding the backs of said Dragons. The familiar sound of wind and the ocean resonated in this small room, wherever here was. Though it looks as if this place was clean at one point, a thick layer of dust and cob webs now coated most things. Some figurines were placed on four stone pedestals in each corner of the square room. Once, she could imagine, that they were very precisely carved exotic gems, but time had all but destroyed them. It was clear that this place was forgotten, but someone put forth the token effort to burn some incense in the braziers, the scent of the sweet smoke hovered faintly in the air. A poorly crafted wooden door in front of the aged throne was the only entrance or exit in this room. Some streams of light were pouring in from gaps in the wood.

What was she to do?

With little thought she stood up, her clothes feeling somewhat dirty, noting that she was in the form of Man still and knowing she could quickly change if she desired. As she began to dust of the clothes she might have subconsciously chosen, a creak was heard from just in front of her along with some voices.

"Don't go in there, that place gives me the creeps." A voice, female.

"Look, I know I saw something. Let me just check it out." A different voice, deeper, but not much. A young male perhaps.

With that the door finished opening and light pierced the darkness. The Dragon's hand instinctively moved up to block her eyes as she adjusted. A figure was standing there, young, male, dressing in a pale blue robe that looked weathered by age, his hair cleanly cut but poorly groomed or wind swept, a broom in one hand (for cleaning, not riding). A brief sight of a world beyond the door.

"Hey, what are you doing in h-" the male asked, an accusing tone in his voice. However, when her eyes adjusted and she put her hand down, the male made a face of what could only be described as pure shock. "A..." he tried, but ended up turning as quickly as he could, slamming the door with almost enough force to shatter it completely. She could hear the voices starting to become a bit smaller.

"What did you see?!" the woman asked, a little frantic. But alas, she wasn't answered as the male started screaming "MAAAASTER!!!" in something akin to panic.

The language she knew, a memory from the Ancients.

The dress she had chosen was that of a fine silk that hung loose around her body, modest and not revealing. The sleeves gave room for hands, the bottom of the dress long enough to cover the appearance of her feet but not so long that it would make her trip. The back of the dress was seemingly longer then the front and slid smoothly over the floor as she walked. The main color was a very light blue that slowly faded into a darker one as it reached closer to the ground until it was almost as dark as the depths of the ocean. The neck, ends of the sleeves and bottom of the dress were all lined with a thick silver trim.

After the man had ran off, slamming the door behind him she kept her calm. Running a hand through her long golden blond hair she took another look around the room, exhaling a deep sigh. This room had history, but it was not likely to be barred from her entry, so outside she went at a calm and steady pace. She reached out to push the door open, taking care not to ruin it any more then the recent slamming had done to it.

The light was bright from the outside but it only took a moment for her eyes to adjust. She stood in the doorway, taking in the sights of the outside, drawing in a deep breath of the fresh sea air. Before long she looked to where the man and possibly the woman had headed off and followed.

The darkness gave way to a sight unfamiliar. The blue sky, dotted with clouds, bore the oppressive sun, though the heat wasn't bothering the Dragon in the slightest. The sounds of ocean birds rang out from the distance as the wind swept high above. The crashing of the waves echoed calmly around her. Though the sounds were noticed, this place was calm, serene.

Setting
The room the Dragon exited was carved into a mountain face and before her lay an immense valley. The valley was surrounded on all sides by high natural rock walls. Off to what she could assume to be the north was a long stairway carved into the rock leading up the cliff. In the basin of the dormant volcano she now stood was lush and green. Well groomed grass and flora were abundant and stone pathways urged students to not disturb the greenery; one such pathway led out of the wooden door she just exited. A large lake sat in the center and rows of blue robed Men stood in formation taking lessons from an older gentlemen. Several buildings were carved into the rock cliffs on all side, some of them larger than others. One dominating wooden building existed just on the other side of the lake as her. It was seven stories tall and well painted; the architecture and carvings of this wooden building were that of wave like patterns and swirls. The building itself had red clay shingles and blue painted shutters. A few trees rested round the edge of the cliff, natural but groomed.

The air was sweet here, the ocean salt strong, but not unpleasant. The air was soft. A distinct feeling the Dragon got from this place was that it was real, not the place she was born. Men of both genders ran too and fro, most of them not paying attention or even really noticing her. The path that led to the shrine she came from was broken and unused, matching the inside of the room. She was in a place that was ignored, but it offered her a good view of her surroundings. The male who had seen her had made a considerable distance heading towards the large wooden building, still screaming. He was beginning to gather looks from his peers, or what could be assumed such, and there was the woman following him with equal haste.

This place was powerful and old, she could feel it tugging at her soul. A deep magic flowed through the air and she could catch wisps of energy traveling aimlessly about, mostly centered around the lake.

She knew this place as the College of Water from her memories, but the memory that she had was slightly different. A few new buildings had been carved into the rock cliff, the place she came from was much better tended. The wooden building was a bit smaller and carved with the a House insignia of Oceancrest, what once was a ruthless and powerful entity.

With a lack of direction she followed the pair that discovered her, and why wouldn't she? The Dragon walked calmly down the broken path, finding a joining one. The purpose of a path guided her and she didn't draw any attention until she got closer to the lake. This is when attention found her. Uniformed Men, most likely students, began to notice her. Most stood in shook, others moved towards the large wooden building. A few daring began to approach. The elder man near the lake began to take some charge and started ordering people back to their rooms. One thing in particular she caught was the large door to the wooden building burst open, the same door the man who discovered her disappeared into. What came out, her memories told her, was a Wolfen, a slave race. One four limbs he, or she, ran, with distinct purpose towards her. It was fast, very fast, and the Men in the blue robes got out of its wait.

It was a short time before the Wolfen came up to her, practically skidding to a stop in a kneeling position before her. The Dragon could catch the scent of this thing, it had the scent of a male. His fur was a dark gray and the longer fur on his head had been braided and decorated with colorful beads. He donned a long blue tunic with an insignia she vaguely recognized as the College of Water. An pleasant scent surrounded him, masking his natural scent. He kept his head dipped, not daring to look up at the Dragon, but his voice, though gruff, was bold and unafraid. "Lady," he spoke, as the opposite of Lord. "The Arch Mage humbly requests he meet you in the shrine." The creature gestured to the room she had come. "He wishes to avoid a panic."

Azalla took in all the sights as she walked down the path, noting the houses that were new, which were old, and what one was in power. She walked with her own purpose, the House of Oceancrest had become her new priority once she had spotted it, and what a lucky guess to go there, as that is where the screaming boy had run off to. She had walked calmly down the stairs and was on her way with a purpose, though made no haste of her own.

It was when the wolven came bounding up to her that she couldnt help but brace for impact. It had been a long time, and there was no knowing how much things had changed. She was relieved when he stopped and bowed before her. It was a strange feeling, she was sent here to know humility but she doubted they would make it easy on her to accomplish such a task. With a polite smile and a kind tone she spoke softly, "Please, call me Azalla."

As she took another look around, noting the fuss her appearance seemed to cause she gave a light nod of her head, her hands reaching behind herself and clasped together. She did not want to be the cause of chaos among the people and so she nodded her head, keeping that smile ever present. "I shall return to the shrine then, thank you."

She gave a light polite bow and then turned on her heel to head back to where she had come from. Her return no more hasty then her descent into the valley. It was a time for contemplation. While it was clear that the stones were meant to keep feet off the grass, she couldnt help stray in wonder to know how it personally felt to have the grass beneath ones toes, careful not to disturb the grass too much in her discovery.

If unmolested she went back to the shrine but left the door slightly ajar for the purpose of lighting the room, and began to dust off some of the objects within, for one starting with the chair. Anything that seemed out of order would be placed into it if she did not feel harm would be done to the object in putting it in its rightful place. Making herself useful would help pass the time as she waited for the Arch Mage.

The house itself was not actually owned by Oceancrest, but her memories informed her that it once was, long ago. There were no visible insignias left on the wooden building. In fact, there were no insignias on the building whatsoever.

The Wolfen dipped his head lightly as he was addressed. "Protocol, Lady, I'm apologize." He stated simply. As she waked back towards the shrine, she noticed quickly that the male slave was following her. He moved in short little bursts, keeping his knelt position and keeping his eyes diverted from her.

As she made no haste to return to the shrine, she was able to see the students ultimately react to her presence. Most were beginning to come slowly out of their shocked state and started to whisper among each other. Such words were far away, but it was easy to assume they were speaking of her. Obviously no one reacted to her trek into the grass. This grass, unlike the grass of the trails, which cut her feet, was soft and gentle. It almost called to her to walk on, something relaxing, real.

When she got back to the shrine the Wolfen in tow waited at the entrance, not setting a single foot inside. The light itself caused the images painted on the wall to be more faded and even harder to read, the light of the sun bleaching out the colors. With a closer look, however, it shows Dragon Riders leading grand vessels at see, some attacking land, others attacking other ships. Maybe a sea monster here in there. Not one particular story, but several instances of battle. If this was a shrine, was this what they considered worship? The figures that were in the corner beyond any sort of repair. With the door open, the natural wind can in to burn out the braziers, leaving only the light of the sun to illuminate the room. As she dusted, whatever she uncovered was old and poorly taken care of. And now that the room was light, it looked a little sad, emotionally. This room was once important, it was easy to see, but time and negligence had turned it into nothing more than a room. Though she could feel the power here, it seemed hollow.

"Does the Lady require anything to eat or drink?" the Wolfen asked form the doorway, his position did not block the light, probably very skilled at making himself small and unintrusive.

Given the current state of the room it made her a little sad to see. Things had become old, forgotten, and unattended. It was a part of history, and history should be remembered. She took a long while staring at just the images on the wall, however difficult it may be to look while the light poured in from the outside. There was not a case yet where she could see the dragon's in the form she was in now, no light talks, just battle. Understandable, considering the power of the dragon and what it has to offer to its rider but was there no more to it? If there were words on the wall she would make note to read it later, wanting to keep the door open to let the stuffy air out and allow the room to replenish itself with fresh air.

As the Wolfen asked about her needs she contemplated how far he would have to walk to get the food and water. Going down the stairs again to wherever he needed to collect what was needed, and then finally walk all the way back up with those things. It would be easier on him to stay where he was for the time being. "Not at this moment, thank you." It was actually nice to feel another presence there, no matter how small. Void of any sort of social interactions as she grew this small bit of attention was appealing. Before any other words were spoken she felt the need to ask, "Do you have a name that I might call you by?"

She did not stop at her bustling around the room as they spoke, still very intent on making this room a little better. If she had to stay for an unknown amount of time it was best that it not go to waste, and hopefully this would give others incentive to clean up well after she left.

The place had indeed been forgotten save for a few trysts or perhaps the occasional prank, time forgotten. No words were written under the pictures. No names or dates, no records to speak of, just decoration it seemed.

The fresh air was a nice change, though an occasional breeze kicked up a cloud of dust. Needless to say she appeared a bit more dirty than when she first arrived. Some smudges of dirty began to gather on her dress. Nothing beyond repair, she thought, but the realization that her clothes were not a part of her was interesting. Her whole life she had not worried about things such as clothes, they seemed unnecessary for life. As a Man she would need such things or draw even more attention that her eyes would simply pull.

The Wolfen, what she could not make up as a small knelt ball of fur who kept his attention more on the large wooden building across the lake than on the Dragon herself, cleared his throat and spoke clearly. "I am called Koben, Lady. I am the servant of Arch Mage Thadious the Wise. You may call me as such, or whatever pleases you." Of this he added no more, keeping his stern gaze towards the wooden building. In truth, she could detect, he was getting anxious, but hid it well.

From the doorway she could see that students were beginning to gather despite the protests of their instructors, most existing around the large lake the took up the center of the basin. The doors of the main building opened an an elderly man with a cane, dressing in deep blue robes decorated with some silver and gold, but modestly. Behind him came an entourage of Men ranging in height, size and gender. Some were carrying pillows with colorfully designed objects, others food. Some were taking notes. After a lifetime of isolation, it was a little overwhelming seeing so many people who existed outside of the Memories. They all knew different things and could potentially have different personalities, goals and desires. But they all seemed so frail.

"The Arch Mage approaches, Lady" Koben stated, as if it wasn't painfully obvious. However, the Man baring the title moved slowly.

She only became slightly distracted by the fact that the clothes were not a part of her, and likely with what rest under it. Contemplating if this body was more frail then her natural one. Was it just an illusion or was there more to it? The clothes did not restrict her movement or hinder it, and for that she was happy, but she did try to dust off the smudges that were there, likely adding more as her hands were likely just as dirty at handling some of the objects in the room.

She nodded her head with a light smile, "It is very nice to meet you Koben." As he seemed to have his eyes set on something, her own trailed out to meet the same point of interest. After the Arch Mage exited the house with the group of men she couldnt help but gaze around the room wondering if it could comfortably fit all of them within it.

And then her thoughts trailed over to the chair in which she had arrived in. Were other dragons coming? And was that chair where all of them would appear in some form or another? If there was any other chair around the room she would get it standing and even make sure that it could hold weight. If they were to talk she was sure one or even both of them may want to take a seat, and it was likely that the throne was not an option.

"Thank you Koben," she replied as he informed her of the approaching group. The clarification of the Mage was nice, just to know she was not confusing him with somebody else. She smacked her hands together in an up and down motion, trying to rid them of the dust that had gathered and suddenly she had wished she had asked for water. From the looks of the approaching group it wouldnt be long until she had some. "I do not suppose you are allowed in here to help give me a hand are you?" She wasnt in need of it, but he was sitting in the sun, and may have wanted to take a seat himself. That and the fact that this did not seem as sacred ground as it once was given its current state.

Unfortunately the shrine itself only bore the one chair, the throne she was sitting when she arrived. Her memories informed her that when the Dragons of old were addressed upon arrival, the Men were normally kneeling, save a small few. However, she did not receive such a greeting this time. In fact, if it wasn't for those two Men that noticed something happen, her presence might have gone completely unnoticed. In Centuries passed this would not have stood and would have been viewed as a great insult. However, times have changed. Two centuries, though fathomable for Dragons, were generations for Men.

Her efforts on her dress were doing just what she expected, making her a bit more dirty. She made the best of the situation, but some things just couldn't be helped. However, when she thought of the use of water to clean her hands, such things happened. When she rubbed her hands together, she could feel the cool water between them, stripping away the dirt and dust. And just as the task was done, the cool feeling was gone, no trace left behind. Thus was the benefits of being a water dragon, never having to worry about washing your hands in a basin, such power.

She was unclear as to what the Ancients had planned, but her memories told her that only one Dragon at a time was offered to the Colleges, so she would not be expecting any company from her own kind arriving today. She was alone in this part of the Mahdran.

Koben shook his head slightly as she spoke to him. "Your wish is my command, Lady. But I am forbidden from entering the Shrine. My apologies." He glanced slightly to the side, not looking at her, but aiming his face more in her direction. "However if there is something you desire outside of the Shrine, I can assist then."

The Arch Mage's progress was still slow, but he would be there eventually. As the elder Man made his way to the crowd, the students parted. With a slight wave of his hand and some seemingly strong words, the crowd began to disperse and the students, grudgingly, began moving off to the larger buildings carved into the stone cliff. Though as they walked, most kept their eyes turned towards the Shrine, trying to catch what last glimpses they could. No doubt they would be looking from whatever windows faced this direction.

Such power indeed. As she had never been far from water before it was highly likely she had never needed to clean herself off, nor felt a need to. Dirt and grime did feel odd within her grasp and it was nice to have it done away with so easily. A part of her wanted to see if she could recreate the process over the rest of her and even on her clothes to seem more presentable.

She let out a heavy sigh at the thought there would be no others of her kind. Their thoughts on the subject would have hopefully helped give her more insight into the situation. Things were not as they were before, so any memories would not be overly helpful. Man was no longer used to their presence, things were different enough to change the ways they had been viewed and likely treated.

"I understand, it is fine." With a light shake of her head, causing her hair to sway back and forth with the action she added, "I do not require anything at this time, but thank you." She began pondering the use of hair. Was it meant to keep one warm? What was its function?

Her mind did not rest on body appendages for long. It was still puzzling, if they were here to be humbled, to serve Man with no real benefit or reward save for the possibility of maturing then why were they revered so? Did this not prove contrary to the cause? These were thoughts to dwell on while waiting on the Mage's slow approach.

She did her best to keep herself out of sight, as the students were waiting to get a peek at something. Trying to make as little trouble as possible she went to go sit in the throne. She began drumming her fingers against one another, staring down at the dull nails on the tips of each finger. Man had no natrual weapon on their forms. Their teeth dull, their nails frail and lacking. She was slowly coming to a conclusion that this was a time for contemplation, and welcomed the slow approach of the Mage if only for the moments to slowly take everything in.

Being as a Man was indeed different than anything she experienced to date. Their lives were so short, their abilities lacking, it was surprising they had come so far. Her memories told her that Man was prone to worship things that were more powerful then them. Though not old that, the thing Man worships is also not understood by man. A hammer could crush a Man's skull, but they could understand how it would do so, so no need for worship was there. However, Dragons were strong and Man knew very little about them, thus worship developed. She wondered, throughout time and all the Dragons that had come to Mahdran how Man could know so little. But then the realization dawned on her that she too, knew little of herself or her kind. The memories she had, as she knew, had been selective to suit her life. The Ancients must have removed any information or knowledge that would prevent Man's worship. But why?

It was difficult to understand these things, being so young and out of her element. Even the simple task of walking as a Man was so foreign, yet she had no trouble doing it. When she had thoroughly lost herself in thought is when she heard Koben speak once more, but he was not addressing her.

"Lord - " he spoke, using the same title he addressed her with. "The Skylord waits inside."

"Thank you, Koben. Make sure the room is prepared." An older voice spoke, though despite the frail appearance the voice was more youthful and strong than the body.

"As you wish," Koben replied, and she could hear him running off. As the students had vacated the area, there was a eerie hush in the basin. No sound came except the faint sounds of the wind and ocean beyond the basin. It seemed even the gulls had stopped their cries. This place could be peaceful, a place of power. She could feel it stronger now, with the emptiness. It almost vibrated within her.

A man appeared in the doorway, just one even though the entourage carried more. This make was indeed old, his face wrinkled and weathered by time and the sea. A long white beard drapped down his chest, merging with the mustache somewhere along the way. His robes, now that he was closer, contained a combination of deep blues, patterns traced by gold and silver thread. An insignia rested on his chest in the same position of the Wolfen noting the College of Water. Old writing under the insignia noted him as the Arch Mage. He rested most of his weight on a staff that seemed very finely crafted and a large pearl on the top of it, an odd energy radiated from it staff. His gray hair was braided behind his head, though it had reseeded a bit over the years. His eyes were very stern and a cold gray. An oddly neutral expression was on his face. Though age had taken his looks, he was probably once handsome. His back bore the slightest of an arch, the world drawing him closer.

This Man bowed as low as he could, his hand still resting on his staff, using it for support. "Oh great Skylord. I am Arch Mage Thadious the Wise of the College of Water. We are humbled by your presence. Have the Skylords returned to bless this world once again?" he asked. "Have you come to choose a rider?" These questions came as he turned slightly, leaving a space in the door. "If you wish, we can speak inside the College itself, we have a room prepared for you."

Though there was a great need to know about her own kind, she did not fault the Ancients from keeping information from her. She trusted their reasoning, whatever it may be. As Koben spoke and then left, her eyes turned towards the door at the man who now took up residence in the light. Perhaps Man's worship was required else they may be more prone to abusing the powers they were to bestow on them, but that was the best thought she could come up with.

When Koben spoke and pulled her attention out of her own thoughts she looked to the doorway to hear his leave and see the man who took up residence at the doorway.

She was not sure how she should answer. From what she understood this was Mans last chance, but was it her place to tell them as such? She would have time to think on that for now, smiling at the Arch Mage and lightly nodded her head. Answer to both questions were likely summed up with her answer. "It is nice to meet you Arch Mage Thadious, I am Azalla, and I have come to find my rider." Whenever he rose, or if he was able to catch the gesture she motioned out, "Yes, please. I would love to see the College."

The Arch Mage added a soft smile which seemed foreign to this face as she added pleasantries. "It is an honor to meet you, Lady Azalla." he stated softly as he walked once again outside of the Shrine, supported somewhat by the staff. The entourage of people were waiting outside, most of them baring some forms of what seemed like gifts while several seemed to be taking a great deal of notes. The Arch Mage began to head down the path, but waited for her to follow. She could catch up easily and even pass the Arch Mage, if she did, he would urge her to walk with him.

"It is good news the Skylords have returned, indeed." he stated, "But I'm afraid much has changed in the time you were away. Forgive us for not following any standards on your arrival, we were unaware you were coming. Plus my predecessors left terrible notes on the subject, so we have little more than Legends and some official documentation. We would be honored for you to view to College; however, I am a bit concerned on how the students will react. We need to brief them on your arrival and how they should respond. Are there any preparations you would need for choosing a rider?" he asked and added. "Or any special needs you have while you are here? We are more than happy to oblige."

As they walked down the stone pathways, the entourage behind them never spoke and little more than the scratching of quill on paper could be heard of their passing. She could see students in the buildings off to the cliffs practically learning out of windows to get a better view. However, the passage from the Shrine to the main College would be undisturbed.

She did not pass up the Mage as they walked down from the shrine, as he had come for her she walked with him at whatever pace he chose. If it were a long one she would not mind horribly as it gave her the time she needed to soak in the details of the town. This time with far less distraction. "It is quite alright, there was no inconvenience on my part at all." Or at least she didnt feel like there was. On this she pondered how the others were greeted. There had been five of them, and it was likely that they were treated with the same amount of awe. It became the question of if they were all treated as kindly as she was. It was hard to beleive that some would not feel the slightest bit angered at being abandoned in the first place, but the Skylords had their reasons.

On the manner of the students Azalla spoke up, though kept her tone soft and sweet. "Do you believe the students will be inhospitable?" Panic she was sure of, but how exactly were they to react? It all depended on how they saw the return. Did they think it a good omen, or a sign of bad things to come? While it was obvious that the Arch Mage did not share those feelings. He was likely content to live long enough to see a Skylord and be one of the first to greet her.

It took her a moment to think on what preparations she would need. How did the Skylords usually choose their rider? Was it a personality they admired or simply a bond they felt? No matter what the ways were, her answer would be the same. "I believe I would like to meet them in the most causal manner possible." She stared around the town, noting not a single person getting in their way, most still in their homes, though practically hanging out of them. "That is when everything calms down enough anyway."

She tapped a finger on her chin, looking up to the sky as she thought about any thing she would need and then shook her head with a light smile, "I cant really think of anything that I would need. Possibly something to eat and drink later but other then that I believe I would enjoy a nice cool bath."

The Arch Mage continued to stroll down the stone paths towards the main wooden building that dominated the area. He nodded lightly as she spoke, but kept his gaze forward, as if carefully walking. "I'm afraid the customs of old have been lost to us over time. The Skylord worshipers have all but pulled out of Oceancrest, so we have no advisers in such manners. If we do anything to offend you, we humbly request you inform us. No doubt your Skylord kin are being greeted differently all over the world."

"As far as the students go" he began. "They are young and unprepared for such a thing. I don't think any of them will display anything towards you other than awe, but some more superstitious of them might be prone to unpredictable actions. We have cleared out a section for you in the College and have forbidden the students from entering said area for both your protection and theirs." He glanced at her, sporting a soft smile. "You have to understand that we aren't even sure how you will act or what you need. So we need to be concerned with everyone for the time being."

"Whatever you need for your and your rider will be accommodated. We would be honored to have the right to document the process if you will allow it." It was true she wasn't sure what the Bond entailed or how she would even expect it. Her Memories told her only that she would know. Such a thing led her to believe that maybe this process was also outside of her control. But then again, whose control was it in?

When she asked for food and water as well as a bath, the Arch Mage nodded his head. "Of course. I will leave you in the care of my servant Koben. If you need anything you may request it form him and he will do all in his power to help." he laughed softly, something that seemed almost pleasant. "We are not sure what Skylords like to eat, so you may have to be specific with Koben."

It was then that they got to the large wooden doors, the main entrance to the large wooden building. The building inside was large and spacious. The main area was very open and the floor was tiled with various glazed light blue tiles with what looked like a large map. Ocean currents, islands and the like could be seen in from her position and a large polished wooden staircase went up the seven stories of this building. The wooden walls were lined with benches and all manner of paintings and tapestries, most not telling any stories in particular. Various hallways branch off from this main room leading to places unknown.

The Arch Mage, leaving the entourage below to whisper among themselves, began to take to the stairs. The process was a little slow, obviously, but not annoyingly so. "We have set you up on the top floor." He stated as he led her up the seven stories. Each floor had a gathering area by the stairwell consisting of several comfortable looking chairs and tables. Some shelves were on the wall in the areas containing a seemingly random selection of books.

When they got to the top, this gathering area was a bit smaller up her and this floor consisted of only one hallway, leading from one end of the building to the other, the stairwell in the middle of the hallway. Much nicer looking furniture was placed up here and the accommodations set for much fewer people. The air up here was sweetly scented by a few strategically placed whited flowers. Down the hall she could see Koben sitting on a bench next to a room at the end of the hall. Each of these finely crafted wooden doors had benches to the side of them as if people were accustomed to waiting. When Koben noticed them, he stood quickly and opened the door, waiting patiently with his head down. The Arch Mage spoke again. "We placed you at the end of the hall, it will be the quietest room when education starts up again. You can imagine we had to quickly put a few things on hold."

They still had time to talk before they got to the room. The room itself was very large compared to the Shrine, almost ten times the size and the ceiling was tall. The furniture was finely crafted, she noted, it must have taken months if not years to make a single piece of furniture in her. A few of the windows had some glass blocking out the outside elements, but could be opened if needed. She could see that this room had the furniture to act as, what her memories told her, a bed room, dining area, sitting area and a study. There was a privy and bathing area off of one wall as a separate room as well as a closet in which to store things. A large bed decorated with blue bedding was the focus of the room, but definitely not the most elegant. There seemed to be some hasty cleaning involved and the place was nicely scented with the same white flowers. [Not going to describe what furniture, put what you need in it]

With another light nod of her head she replied, "I will inform you if anything offends me." A light sigh pushed itself from her, not from frustration, but in realization that these poor people were made to halt their daily duties for her. "I completely understand, do what you must for the best interests of the people. I will try to do my best not to cause any unwanted trouble." It was an odd thing to say considering at this time they looked on her as some sort of deity. Do Kings or rulers often tell servants to make themselves comfortable and work around them? She however kept in mind of what she was here to do, and kept no delusions of her status or wants to abuse the hospitality she had been shown.

Brightly, almost too happy to oblige, "If you wish to take documentation I have no problem with that. If there is anything I can do to help the process please let me know." To her understanding their memories were not passed down as her's were. The written word was how things were recorded and passed down. The information was important so she would not stand in their way.

It was slightly more revealing knowing that she would not be making the choice of the bond herself, that took off some of the pressure and worry about choosing the wrong person. However she did wonder how they were chosen, what was the the special quality that made somebody a rider?

Looking over to Koben she was actually happy to have him helping her out. He was a familiar face and though it was a bit distracting that he wouldnt look her straight in the eye she could understand that these things may be sacred, the same as the room. "Koben has been very helpful so far, thank you for lending his services to me."

She couldnt help but be a little awe struck herself at the size and general feel of the room. They had taken great lengths to make sure she felt comfortable which was nice but at the same time overwhelming. "You all have been very nice so far, I appreciated all your efforts. I am sorry for any delays in teaching my arrival has caused. Hopefully you will get right back on schedule." It was unlikely that would happen, given there was now the distraction of her being there, regardless of if they could not directly see her their minds would be distracted on the current state of things.

The Arch Mage smiled as he left her to the room. "My scholars will be happy with the knowledge that they can document some of the events that will occur here. I will have one appointed to you shortly." he stated, bowing as deep as his aged body would allow him. "You do not need to thank us for anything or apologize for anything. We are here to meet your needs while you reside in the College." He nodded lightly, as if approving of his own words. He then turned to Koben who stood solemnly by the door. "The Lady has requested some food and water and a bath later."

Koben bowed to the Arch Mage and nodded. "Of course, my Lord." He stated in the simple gruff voice, but remained where he was.

The Arch Mage remained to make sure there was nothing else he could assist with. "I will give you an official tour when things have calmed down." He stated and if she asked no more he would excuse himself to hobble slowly down the hall.

When the Arch Mage was gone, Koben was left behind. He allowed the Arch Mage to get a bit down the hallway before he address her. "What food would the Lady like?" he asked, still keeping his eyes mostly from her.

She was tempted to thank the Arch Mage again but reminded herself that he insisted she was not to thank them, or at least that it wasnt needed. With a polite nod of his passing she let him go without further request or question. When Koben addressed her she smiled up at him, only a little concerned with her own needs. As she walked into the room, unaccustomed to such things, it all seemed a little unnecessary, though she still had it in mind that it would be a minor comfort for the trying times to come. "Fish, any type really. I also have no preference to how its prepared aside from being cooked. Surprise me, I would love to know what the local food tastes like."

Though the room did hold her attentions for a short while mostly she wanted to ask. "Why wont you look at me? Is it forbidden? I will not be offended." It must have been horribly tempting to look, but he was likely tempered to know he shouldnt. Still she felt a little uneasy with the manner. While she knew this was a slave race, less civilized then Man or the Skylords that did not mean that she necessarily viewed them as lesser creatures. Just like the sea everything has its place. From the itty bitty fish that clean up after the bigger ones, to the sharks, whales, snails and sky rats.

Eventually the sounds of the Arch Mage strolling down the wooden floor became the distant sound of his staff echoing in the stair well as he descended to the ground floor. It was hard to hear, normally, but as a Dragon it was not outside of her range of hearing. She could tell, but the subtle movements of Koben's ears that he was also keeping tabs on his Master. The Wolfen was either cautious or loyal.

He smiled and nodded slightly, his tail still behind him, trying not to relay much emotion. "We have all manner of fish in the College, Lady. If you wish for a surprise I will have the kitchen prepare something the Arch Mage tends to enjoy." he said as he remained in the hallway. A bit of a reaction escaped him as she asked she questioned his manner and he seemed to think on it for a moment.

"I imagine it would be a grave insult to look upon you." He answered, taking his time to properly form the words, before finishing up with a more proper. "Lady."

He waited for a moment and then spoke again. "I can only image that you are unfamiliar with the College, Lady, but I humbly ask you a kindness." He glanced down the hallway once then back to the floor just before her. "I am accustomed to being dismissed before carrying out my instructions. While I serve you, I ask for the same consistency, if it is not too much trouble."

If it was something that was well enjoyed she was more then happy to try it, "That sounds fine, if he likes it I would be willing to give it a try."

She had to ponder the thought of an insult, and had to question, "An insult to me? I would find no offense in it, and if needed you have my permission. I think it would be a great help if you could tell me if I had something stuck in my teeth." She couldnt help but smile at the thought. Oh that would be horrible, she could go through all the trouble to clean herself up and then something as simple as dinner could make her efforts futile.

Azalla's smile broke only once, giving him a light nod, "Yes, sorry. I will do my best to remember to dismiss you as needed." And with that she waved a hand, and smiled up, "You are dismissed." It was assumed that he needed it before fetching her dinner. If he ran off she then took the time to check out the room a bit in his absence.

The bed was the first thing she went to, touching it with her hand to first test it and then took a seat, bouncing up and down once or twice to get a good feel for the fabrics as well as the firmness of the mattress. After she was in the bed she found a hard time getting out of it. It was a comforting feeling. The sheets likely cold and soothing to the touch.

From her perch on the bed she looked around the room, taking in the sights, where everything was and then her eyes landed on a mirror. She got up slowly from the bed by pushing herself forward, feet on the ground, and let her arms carry her the rest of the way off. Going towards the mirror she contemplated if his body would have any resemblance to her natural self. Would there be traces of her on this human face? Her reflection took a good majority of her time, memorizing herself so she would know what other people saw when they looked at her. The golden eyes were obviously the main focus, no doubt attracted more so by matching hair color.

The Wolfen nodded slightly as she made the request for him to look at her. "As you wish, Lady" he state calmly and then took a deep breath. With some degree of effort, Koben looked up. He made eye contact with her for a moment, his dark eyes with a yellow irises. He held the gaze for a moment before looking away once more, almost suddenly. "With some practice perhaps" he murmured. When he was dismissed, he left with some degree of haste, he also closed the door as he departed down the hall.

The room was oddly quiet, the windows doing well to block the sounds from the ocean as well as the wind. It felt painfully unnatural. She was, however, privileged with a remarkable view of the basin.

The bed itself was soft, something that seemed foreign, as did many of the objects in this room. She knew their purpose, but had never actually used any of them, other than perhaps a chair. When she came to the mirror she say herself, as she was, with the solid golden eyes, something remarkably different than those of Man. They almost appeared to glow. With such a different there is no wonder that she drew what attention she did so quickly. But other than those eyes, her body was that of a Man. She had seen reflections of herself as a Dragon, but this was such a stark difference. The imagine the in mirror, she knew, was her. Maybe not entirely her, but recognizable none the less.

Azalla was at least happy for the effort, even if it did strain the Wolfen to do so. She had to wonder about his haste to get out of the room, had it been that he wanted to get away from her? Who knew, save for Koben. Well, given time she was sure he would be able to tell her if the net that was her hair had captured a leaf or something.

If she could open the windows, and she was sure it would not mess with the room, she opened them right up. It would feel good to have the sounds and smell of the sea in the room. At night she was sure it would help her sleep better.

While all the objects were foreign to her, that didnt stop her from checking everything out personally. There was a big difference between memory, and what her mind told her what something was, and what her senses told her. The feel of the soft bed, the reflection in the mirror.

At that moment she figured she may need a change in clothes. Though she had planned on a bath after she ate that did not stop her from looking around to see if clothes had been presented for her. If not she was sure to request some later, meeting the same specifications as her current garb. Overall the time was spent in silance and contemplation when not desecovering the objects around the room.

Time passed slowly, but it was not intolerable. She was able to find all manner of things in the room, but none of it seemed personal. With the windows opened she could now hear that ocean and the wind once more. A glance outside could see a large crowd of students were gathered by the lake. The Arch Mage was speaking to them and even from where she was she could hear his words clearly. Not to go into detail, but the Arch Mage was explaining to the students about her appearance and how they should act around her. It seemed he was encouraging them not to make eye contact unless spoken too. He was also encouraging the students to keep their distance for the time being. He reassured then that everything was okay and this was a blessing from above. Despite his age, his voice carried well.

There were some clothes left in the closet, though it seemed none of them were made specifically for her. It did seem that a few people made some very educated guesses based off the initial report of her dimensions. There were also some deep blue student robes which would probably fit all but the largest individuals. An exploration of the privy, it had a few cleaning devices, including a basin to fill with water, another mirror, and another slightly different chair used for 'doing one's business'. There was not a bath in there, however, like she assumed there might be based on Memory (I'm changing that, they don't really have plumbing).

There was a very fine desk against one of the walls with a window, a good view of the basin beyond. In the desk there was a few feathered quills, some ink and several sheets of paper. The rest of the drawers seemed to be empty save for an eating set.

After several minutes, a soft knock was head from the other side of her door. She could catch the smell of cooked meat and vegetables as a familiar voice spoke. "Lady, it is Koben with your meal." The voice spoke, but the door remained closed.

Azalla was thankful to hear the Arch Mage give his speech, it gave her an idea of how the others were expected to act around her so at least now she would know if others were acting out of the norm. This would also help her not get them directly into trouble and added more caution.

When she heard the knock on the door she was pulled out of her train of thought and went over to the door to open it up for Koben. She expected his hands to be full, even if he had knocked. She hastely walked over opened it up and quickly said, "Please, come in." The words may or may not have been needed. She was trying to give him some consistency.

If or when he walked in she couldnt help follow the smell of the food. "That smells just delightful. What do you call it?" She was trying to make conversation, it was nice to talk to something other then herself and whatever fish wandered by that had no idea what she was saying, but was not spooked enough to swim away.

Koben was indeed standing on the other side of the door. He had a cloth draped over his forearm and was carrying a metal plate with a metal lid over it. In his other hand he carried a large glass of water which was actually made of glass. The water looked cool and clean. He still keeped his eyes averted for the moment and he walked in once invited to do so. He probably knocked with his knee, since his hands were full.

The Wolfen walked over to the dinning table meant for four and placed the glass of water in what could only be considered its proper spot. He then took the cloth from his arm and placed it down on the table as a place mat. This was followed by the plate itself, placed in the exact center of the mat. Wordlessly, he walked over to one of the drawers and pulled out some silverware and a napkin. He moved quickly but took the time to sent everything up in it's proper place, as if he had much practice. Once everything was aligned properly he pulled the chair out for her. "Lady" he stated softly and gestured towards the chair, urging her to sit.

When she did he would help push her in. He then took the napkin and folded it into a triangle and carefully placed it on her lap. She noticed that he took great effort not to accidentally touch her. When she was situated her pulled the lid off the plate to reveal an entire fish, but cooked to a brown color with various sprigs of herbs on it and seemingly a light brown sauce. There were also various vegetables ranging from carrots to asparagus coated with the same sauce. It smelled tasty, but to be honest this was the first cooked food she was ever presented with. "It's Trout a la Creme, Lady" he stated, taking a few steps away. He kept his eyes from her still.