Waste of Paint

[Miro]

77th day of Summer, 513 AV

Miro had gotten his job, the details written in a folded piece of parchment he kept concealed in his sling. He had gotten it a few days ago, and done a bit of work towards its completion already. The job required him to go to the Institute of Higher Learning, a location that was, more or less, a school. And not just any school either, one ran by the Ebonstryfe. Or at least, he was told so. The request was from a man, Alendrus, a Summoner. Perhaps a fledgling with aspirations, for he wished to impress his higher up, and of course, some help. With Glyphing nonetheless. Any wizard worth his salt should have some skill in Glyphing. Really, it is not so hard, and even a novice should be able to bolster his world magic of choice. A simple rule to apply was that a barrier is never wasted. Containing Djed and stabilizing it always makes things safer, and in many cases easier to manage.

But that was a lot of talk for someone who knew nothing of Summoning. In the past there had been encounters with it. Mainly with Shale, the crazy bastard. It is how Ender was bound to Miro, and he was indeed a Summon. His homeworld, Fyrden, the world of eternal light and dark. It was a circle magic, as most of the world variety were. Adding a barrier would be easy, but that wasn't worth any pay. No doubt, this Alendrus, he was expecting a little more. If he wanted to impress, then he first would need to be impressed. So, it was something to muse on, and muse he did. The Glyphing was clear in his head, but the Summoning however was not. And in only a few days one could not learn a lot about a complex magic. But he could reflect on what he knew already, and talk to his partner, if he could be of any help.

"So Ender, Summoning, your people know of it. From what you've explained, you are quite fond of them, for they are salvation from your homeworld." And yet, though the people of Fyrden knew of Summoning, they did not care to know the details of their salvation. They were not experts on the magic. It was enough for them to spread story of the wizards of Mizahar, how they would call upon the worthy, and they would be rescued from their forsaken world. "Yeah, I know a bit. We often found our friends and loved ones rescued by another of our people who had been called to this world. A Darkfacer who had been taken to bind to a Summoner would hold the most honorable role a Fyrdenese can. One who brings those he loves to salvation. They would appear, choose one of their family, then take them too. If the chosen was worthy, they too would be bound. You know Miro, I would be honored to serve that role. Learn Summoning master, please. With your power, we could force people to bind to a partner."

Such a remark made Miro grin. Advice in the form of a request, and flattery included too. It was so unlike the Irylid, it was damn compelling. "Yeah, definitely we could. And if your friends are as smart as you, they can control their partner." There was a slight pause, as if the Familiar was considering his words, and when he spoke, there was a frank sense to his otherwordly voice. "Not nearly as smart, nor as lucky either. They will not be bound to you though, so yes, they can take the role of master. I do not expect though that my slight knowledge was of help, so I am hoping you have all you need. Going on only a little knowledge and making due with uncertainty is somewhat of your specialty though." But it was somewhat helpful, for it gave him an idea. He could always collaborate with his partner. A quick run through of the plan would definitely give him all he needed.

Not to mention, there was always what Shale said. The Reimancer wasn't able to recall the exact words, but the message implied was very clear. The creatures were meant to be dominated, controlled, and most importantly, to accomplish a task. He kept them on a leash, and told them just what to do, though compensation was always required. If what Alendrus needed was nothing but to look impressive, then the task would be completed upon Summoning. And with that, compensation and control really seemed to be the same thing. What he needed was to prove that he could control it, and maybe have it do tricks. Keeping it contained though, that seemed to be the best option. Reimancy could do a lot for his sigil, and there was not much that would not be intimidated by a surging current of lightning.

There was a stirring in the wizard's mind though. He felt as if he was being watched, no, more like examined. A dark creeping came up his spine and rattled around in his mind. And then it made sense, for he heard the voice. The black arm, and its sick crackling words. First a laugh, like that of a lifelong smoker, then its proposal. "You know, we could have, maybe just, a little fun. Magic is such a dangerous subject, and if something were to go wrong, things could get interesting. A Summoned creature, c'mon, you know something like that set free could be worth a laugh. Imagine the things that could emerge from the circle Miro. We both know it, don't we? We would both like to see a creature rip apart a person, and then when it does, someone will have to stop it, won't they?"

The infectious black arm, it was in his head, and the host knew this. How easy it was for the thing to convince Miro of things, all for a simple reason. It was able to read his mind, to observe and follow his life, and it really did know its prey. In the year of thriving off the wizard, it had convinced him that it was the one who knew him best. That what it said he wanted, he really did. And what it said, always custom tailored for him, bait with a fierce hook. Conditioning had tailored the relationship into a beautiful veil of deception. the arm was trickery in a darkened essence, and its host a fool boy with more power than any man should wield. A better host could not be taken, and manipulation was rarely met failure. "You care about your reputation, and so do I. You just make sure you are the one who does the killing. Just think, its threat is made apparent after it takes a life, and then you look so valiant."

Though it was far more appealing a thing to witness, the risk of it was apparent. First point that made him nervous, that somebody had to die, or at least be injured. The only people he knew to witness it were the master and student, as well as Miro himself. If the master died, it was bad news. No one to impress, and punishment was likely to follow. He would have failed his mission and reputation would follow. If Alendrus died, who would pay him? Who would say, "job completed"? Then the blow to his reputation would be kind of harsh, though maybe not. If he saved the master, the blame would likely be placed on Alendrus. The foolish apprentice let loose a creature he could not handle, and then the master would be thankful for being saved. Actually sounded quite decent. Though, how would he even manage to sabotage the thing in the first place?

And though that black arm of his had access to all of this thinking, it had nothing more to say. It too was clueless, and would need to reevaluate. Though it was not done with this, and it couldn't be satisfied. Not with the chance of causing some real chaos. The kind of chance that only comes along once in a season. At least for something in its position. There was a way to twist things, and all it needed was a chance to pull the strings. But Miro was at least satisfied to continue on. He was fresh out of his housing cubicle, armed with a backpack of gear. Its contents, his artists kit, complete with inscribing paint, his Glyphing medium of choice. Ionu's Light had been left behind to free up his hand. His personal magic wouldn't be at its prime, but it was a necessary loss.

[Miro]

"I guess I should thank the Nitrozians for giving me a place to stay, or at least keep my things at. I have all I need though, and I am ready to accept the challenge ahead of me." The wizard waved over a Ravosalaman and boarded the boat. "Take me to the Institute of Higher Learning please." He removed his pack from his back and sat himself down. He sat the bag beside him and grabbed out his tip in advance, though he would have to wait a while before handing it over. It was a long way to the City Center. "So I have something in mind, a technique. I think it might work, but I will need to talk with Alendrus. I am still thinking for a role for you to play in this however. What do you have in mind?" Somehow this was comical to Ender, for he laughed in the strange way Irylids laugh. It sounded like an echo down an icy hallway, pitches rising and falling and even overlapping.

"You asking me what I have in mind? What, like, I get a say now? I am not sure I even understand. What do I plan on doing to help, or what is my plan for the Glyphing? Forgive me for questioning you master, but it is just not something that happens often. What exactly do you want want to know?" It was surprisingly one of those days when Miro was in the mood to mend the relationship. Admittedly, asking his Familar an opinion was a rarity, though the gesture was genuine. "Okay, let's say both. You know a bit about Glyphing, and I would like to test you. And, since you are on board, I'd also like to know what you could do to help during the process. I will be doing the sigil in paint, not ice, so you will have no part in that." A smile grew on his face. Maybe today he would ignore the arm in favor of his partner.

"As always, I will be playing the role of security. Ever-watching, Ever-cautious, Ever-so-dangerous. If anyone tries to get a cheap shot in, I will flay them. I've got Reimancy and everything you’ve taught me. If there is need for a powerful wizard to rescue, I shall take the role. You focus on the silly task, and I will ensure you are allowed to complete it. I do not wish for any communication, just focus. I’ll be watching for anyone in need of killing.” Though that was slightly concerning, and the blackened arm could not help but to critique. ”The Ice is not going to wait for any reason to kill, if he gets the chance. What it will be looking for is an excuse, any opportunity to get its first blood. See to it that this doesn’t happen, and punish it for trying.”

Miro arrived at the Institution and noted the statues and impressive maw of an entrance. He flashed a piece of parchment given to him and was allowed entry. It was quite the eerie place, though very awe inspiring. It was magnificent in design, and a fitting place to be dedicated to Rhysol. The wizard walked the corridor towards the lab he was instructed to visit and hoped he wasn’t too early. The winding corridors were something else, and the building, even for its large size, still seemed more expansive from the inside. The classroom was not far according to the instructions, and inside he would be fully informed of his duties. He understood most of what he was required to do, and was just eager to get the work done.

Upon finding the room he also found a man standing outside in wait. Alendrus he assumed, the man who had hired him. ”You’re the Glypher I hired then? Well, just as long as you get the job done. I am Alendrus, pleased to meet you. Okay, enough on introduction, let us get started. This is all very important, so you better know what you’re doing. I will be attempting to summon a dangerous creature, and to use a powerful circle. Just as important as functionality is appearance however. It will not be enough to simply enhance the stability of my circle, but also to make it look impressive. You will also be playing the role of my bodyguard, as you look the type.” He was a curious man in appearance. He held a sour look on his face, had an overly attended appearance, and expensive clothes rather than a robe. Though already he was beginning to sweat through them.

”I hope you are following all of this. I am to impress a very important man, and I need everything to go right. I am paying a lot for this service, and I expect only the best. The hexagonal circle will not last very long, so I will need you to enhance its stability. The creature I am to summon, it will need only be kept on display. Any way you might be able to help to keep it restrained within the circle should also be employed. I shall keep every restraint on the creature possible. Now tell me about what you are capable of, how you may better assist me in enhancing my circle. Then I shall show you to the circle, and you may begin working. I of course will observe your process and watch for mistakes.”

To be scripted as a pretend bodyguard after doing his Glyphing was not exactly what the wizard had signed on for, but would not complain. He very much did look forward to earning the coin from the man. It was also likely that with how desperate he was to look good that credit for the circle would be taken by him as well. This was going to be an interesting job to say the least. ”I am Miro, a very capable wizard. I am more than capable in my Glyphing skill, and also a very skilled Reimancer as well. I understand well what I am to do for you sir, and I look forward to serving my purpose.” It was unlike him to act so proper, but felt it appropriate. It would work best to get some form of recommendation or approval reported back to the spot.

”Ah, a Reimancer, excellent. An excellent skill to have. If anything should go wrong, I will count on your skill to defend us. And if perhaps you can enhance the sigil with the discipline, well, that certainly would be impressive. Enough that I might just get the attention I need. Enough you just might get more than you bargained for. Come now, to the circle, let us begin.” The duo walked over to an area segregated from the rest of the room by drapes. Within the concealed area there were various loose runes, candles and incense burning, though they did not look to hold much purpose. The entire area was set up in a ceremonial fashion, and in the center of the room was a raised platform. A polished wooden surface with a carved and painted circle. There was enough room for a sigil around it.

”Impressive looking, right? Intricate set up, but not so much that it’s impractical. Take that to heart. There is plenty of room around the circle for a sigil, just take a look. Come up with a design, I’ll give you a moment, just make sure you explain it well. Remember, stability and visual appeal both. To work Miro.” So the wizard listened, realizing his job did not require him to respond with words. Alendrus obviously preferred to do all of the talking. He walked to the plate and walked about it, admiring the fine craftsmanship of the piece. It certainly was big enough for a sigil, and an idea of how he would do this started to come to mind. Though he would need more than functionality, but design too. It had to fit the tone of the room, as so much trouble had been gone through to set up the display.

”I set all of this up just for this. The circle was the hardest, as I made it myself, though none of it was cheap. As I said, this is a very important day for me.” Miro continued to walk around the plate, running designs through his head, imagining the perfect way to increase the circles functionality. More than that, he was finding a way to balance the stability factor with an addition of his Reimancy. He would use it to create the extra visual appeal and make the circle unique and impressive. He stopped and brushed his hair back before turning to Alendrus. ”Ah, you have something, right? I can see it, so tell me. When I give approval you may set up your supplies and begin.”

[Miro]

Surprisingly enough the Chained One was dealing quite well with his personality. For all he was forward and domineering, he was at least precise with his statements and demands. It allowed them to keep things superficial and on task. ”I shall start by creating a stylish barrier around the circle. It will increase the stability and dependability of the circle, and I can use it as a base. Around it I can add runes to allow the inclusion of Reimancy. I will create another specialized barrier around that one, but leave a small space to serve as a path. Then around it, I shall make a focus in the shape of a ring, and contain it with yet another barrier. It will then be filled with fire, and the specialized barrier will allow it to leak into the path.”

Alendrus quickly interrupted after realizing the end result of such a design. ”Oh, I see, I see. That would mean that a ring of contained fire would surround the circle, and keep the creature at bay. And while keeping the creature contained, it would also look impressive. I like it, and I only have one request. Make the trigger for the sigil activate by blood. I shall stare the Summon in the face, then activate the trigger with my punctured finger and set the circle ablaze. This specific circle has been focused to summon a certain type of creature, and is made even more unstable by it. My work will have to be quick and remain safe, but I am hoping that I might finish on a grand note. Though so far I have been completely unable to do so.” The man held his finger to his lip and began to tap his foot rapidly.

”I am a Voider, able to open portals to a dimension of emptiness. They are tears in that open and allow me to dispose of unwanted objects. Or in this case, it would be a Summon. Or at least it would be, if I was skilled enough to operate a circle and open a Void both. To create a portal large enough to swallow the creature, it is possible for me, though I would lose control over the leash controlling the creature. The fire you produced could even snap the leash and free the thing. Perhaps there is some way you are able arrange the creature contained with certainty while I prepare a Void to dispose of it? If so, it would certainly be a display of my capabilities of dealing with dangerous Summons. What do you think, is it possible?”

Though there was naught that Miro could think of to achieve such an effect. To have the creature loosen its hold, it could leap past the fire, and the Reimancy could backfire. The flames would certainly destroy the leash and set the beast free. Perhaps however he could instead of altering the circle, enhance the Voiding. Glyphing could enhance all forms of personal and world magic. If he could not somehow store one of these Voids in a sigil, he could at least attempt to enhance the wizard’s ability to cast by drawing runes on his hands. ”Alendrus, might you have any knowledge on how Glyphing effects Voiding? Perhaps even you could display this magic for me?”

The Summoner looked slightly distraught at the suggestion, then sighed. ”I have never attempted to modify my personal magic with Glyphing. And a display, huh? Fine, yes, but I am trusting you to solve this problem. Let us move out of the Summoning area first however.” The pair walked out from behind the curtain and Alendrus began to prepare himself by kneeling and closing his eyes. He chanted something under his breath with his hands placed on his lap. Afterwards he stood, dusted his pants off, and adjusted his stance. Legs spread, one arm holding the other, and his hand extended before him. Each of his fingers was split, and his eyes focused on the area just in front of his body. Then the man went still, all but faint quivering of his eyes, the obvious strain of casting painted on his face.

It took no longer than ten or fifteen ticks before he noticed Miro noticed anything. The air in front of the caster’s hand starting to distort, and finally a tear appeared. It split open to form a pitch black circle, though the act was silent. The tear grew in size, first no bigger than his hand, but within half a chime the size of a window. A faint breeze could be felt pulling one in towards the Void. ”This is a Void, a portal to the Other Side, that dimension of darkness you see. A Voider learns to open a tear, and can influence it by giving it pull, an attract force. Talented practitioners can even create large portals with great pull, or even multiple portals at once. Though such things increase the strain on the caster’s Djed.” The man lowered his arm, quit fueling the tear, and it began to shrink before closing.

Both Miro and Ender both were impressed by the display, and quite curious. Though this was not the time to study a new discipline. He needed only to find some way of improving the process to lessen the strain and focus it required to open a sufficient tear. Though neither could resist talking to the other about what they had just witnessed. ”Amazing. It is quite the impressive discipline of magic. It seems infinititely useful, much like Reimancy. Though I do wonder more about the Other Side. And I wonder the more subtle details of what this magic is capable of. Though even in concept, a portal to an infinite empty space is useful.” Though the Familiar thought things through differently.

The Irylid thought back to the time of being bonded to Miro, how he so wished to find peace and relaxation. How he wished to be rid of his master who anchored him to the destructive life of a crazed wizard. ”I wonder about the Other Side too Miro. Mostly how easy it is to escape from, or if it is possible to live there in peace. I am sure I could find great use in the discipline. If I was not able to trap you within the void, I may consider sending myself. A pitch black abyss as such, even I would be blind. That coupled with the lack of sound means total peace. I would never be disturbed again, but continue to be sustained by your Djed. It sounds like a perfect escape.”

[Miro]

Though the Reimancer would ignore his partner’s comments and continue working. With the posture Alendrus took in casting, the emphasis on his hand, it was likely that Glyphing his body would help. But only to some degree. The portal he created was small compared to what he would need to create during the Summoning, which would mean it would take more time and concentration. Even Glyphing his hand to assist in casting wouldn’t be enough to make up the difference. Their only hope remained in storing a Void in a focus. However such a thing could be possible. ”I am capable of creating a runic design on your hand to assist casting, but I believe the answer to our problem lies in the application of a focus.”

The undead removed his backpack and pulled from it a scroll and his Glyphing kit. ”I shall make a sigil, and we can test the theory. Though I am not sure if the Void itself or the process of opening one would be stored, if anything. Still, there is only one way to find out, so be ready and we shall test this. If all goes right, we should be able to open the Void by trigger, and you can finish your display by Voiding the Summon.” He pulled his inscribing paint and brushes out, then opened the scroll. He readied the supplies and then furthered his explanation. ”I will create a Glyph, a focus, barrier, and trigger. You then plant your hand on the focus and open a void.” Though Alendrus only gave a nervous scoff and crossed his arms. He began tapping his foot and mumbling.

”You expect me to kneel before a Void that I will open up as wide as with as strong a pull as possible? If something goes wrong, you self-void yourself, and there is no coming back from that. It is something I haven’t exactly proven I can do, and we don’t have time and Djed to waste experimenting. This goes right, or else you don’t get paid anything. Figure out a way this works.” But Miro swore it would work, and he knew that he was skilled enough to create both of the sigils he promised. The demonstration could only end in success as long as the Summoner played his role. Though he needed convincing, and luckily a Hypnotist knows just how to do such a thing.

The Hypnotism looked Alendrus straight in the eyes and expanded his aura of influence outwards to envelope him. He placed his hand on the man’s shoulder and began to channel Djed through his eyes. He implanted an emotional response of trust and gave a reassuring smirk. He now shifted his Djed flow to his throat, and would now use his voice as a medium for suggestions. The words he would speak would hold a depth and impact and stick into his subconscious. He started in easy, his manipulation already prepared. ”You can do this Alendrus, trust me.” He hesitated and built another emotional response through their shared gaze, the Djed transmuted this time to a charge of confidence.

Miro removed his hand and beckoned his employer over to the supplies he had set out. He prepared his voice to push more suggestions. ”My Glyphing will not let you down, there is no doubt. I will Glyph your hands and increase your control over the void. And then my scroll will store the spell as you have cast it, and everything will go perfectly. You have everything set up perfectly.” Even still, chaining that much Hypnotism strained him. By now a small session like that only disoriented him a bit and strained his voice. The physical strain would soon heal due to his body however. Luckily he had the Djed to spare, as the only spell he needed to cast still was for the circle. It was time to put everything in motion.

He could manage one last spell before retiring his hypnotic charm. Get the man focused back on doing his work. The wizard looked up at him and cast one final suggestion through his shaky voice. ”Make sure my sigils are up to par and that I am not slacking. You are in charge here.” It was a weird feeling to empower somebody to feel the urge of domination through manipulation. He enjoyed it too, but was not sure why. He had never satisfied his cravings in such an odd way. Alendrus of course obliged and stood watching over Miro’s shoulder. ”Well pick up the brush, show me what you can do. I am not going to let you paint on me without you proving yourself.”

[Miro]

That the Chained One could do. His enhanced dexterity and practiced hand would make quick work of this simple scroll. He took a small brush from his bag and dipped it in his paint. He would start with the focus first, and planned to make it quite elaborate. If he was going to modify a new magic he could not take any risks. In the center of the scroll he created a large circle and left only a bit of space above and below it. Within it he painted a vertical and horizontal line through the center and two more diagonal lines between them. Then four circles that met in around the center to form something that resembled a lotus. Finally he framed the outside with a square and diamond whose corners met at the edge of the lines.

When it was finished by being tasked to store magic, any of the individual shapes were hard to make out, and there were various new ones created. Overall it was quite appealing with all of the shapes were harmonic and made in symmetry. He knew that it would be sound for the purpose it was meant, and large enough to contain the magic, even if it was as costly as Reimancy. To ensure it would hold however he would need a powerful barrier. The wizard began to draw using only the tip of his brush, thin lines that twisted about and wove into a netting along the bulk of the scroll. Each stroke of the brush was tasked to contain Djed. They formed a swirling and twisting pool of black vines around the focus, though left a spot above it bare. A circle was formed in the weave, the area for a trigger.

Miro began quickly on the trigger, as they had become quite easy since maturing his skills. The circle was outlined and filled in with a series of four triangles facing up, down, left and right, and in their center formed a square. Within that square he created four more triangles, their inner line shared with the outer triangle, though faced the opposite direction. The four triangles overlapped and formed a star shape in the center square. In its very center was a circle, and a small triangle that lead out into each larger outward facing triangle, and four much longer triangles that pointed to each corner. It was tasked to release the barrier and spell stored within the focus with the spoken command, “tear open”.

The scroll was completely filled in, most of it barrier, but a large enough focus to store the spell. Alendrus would have been glad to give criticism, were he able. Everything he witnessed pleased him, and he was gaining faith in his hire. ”The trigger is set off by a phrase,” the wizard leaned in and whispered, ”but do not say it until you wish to release the spell.” He cleared his throat. ”Now you are able to store your spell, are you satisfied enough to let me paint your channeling sigil?”

The Summoner nodded and held his hands forth with his palms upturned. ”Certainly may, but be sure of your work. I will require both hands be done.” Miro bade him to kneel and took his brush to paint again. A channeling sigil in its most basic form was the most simple of Glyphs, but could become quite complicated with ease. This however would retain a simplicity, though fall in with theme of looking impressive. He began by turning the hands over and drawing a pointless design. most of the skin was blackened, though on the back of his hand was a circle left bare, and within it was the symbol of the Black Sun.

This was just for show, though it looked as if the entirety of his hands had been enhanced. The undead then turned them back over to work on the actual sigil. A light barrier was applied around the edge of the hands and fingers in the form of slight barbs that wove their way around, and would enhance the control of spells cast. Though the main functionality of a channeling sigil came from the focus. He began to make small runic designs down each of his fingers that lead to the palms. On them he crafted a stylized eye, very round in shape, filled in with black to resemble the void. Around them a current of swirling lines wound its way towards the center.

”There, it is finished, a quality channeling sigil. All of the magic cast through these hands will be enhanced in ease of casting and control given. Now Alendrus, sir, are you ready to begin? I assume you are familiar with how to use the scroll.” The man scoffed and took the scroll to set it before the Summoning altar. ”Of course I am aware on how to use it. Now quiet, and do stay back. I am going to need all of the focus I can get, and I do not need you to Void yourself. At least not until you’ve completed your job.” A moment was given for the man to prepare himself and for the paint to dry completely.

[Miro]

Alendrus placed one hand on the focus and the other in front of him. He shut his eyes tightly for a while, then began to relax them. The feel of thick Djed rose into the air, and the Reimancer watched closely at what would happen. The sound of a faint chanting became audible and quickly picked up in volume. The Voider’s eyes shot open, and the black sigil on his hand flared and flickered with a white and golden light. A large tear began to open before them, and the circular portal quickly grew in size.

Before long it was able to easily swallow a man whole, and still it continued to grow a slight amount past this. It was large enough that it looked to be able to swallow a deadly beast. Beads of sweat were pouring from the caster, but he was not finished yet. A large void would not be enough, for also he needed it to possess a powerful pull. As he willed it, Miro could instantly see the results. The curtain containing the area began to drift towards the tear, and before long was flailing in the air. As the noise of stitches tearing thin could be heard the Void was forcibly closed and the Summoner bent over in exhaustion.

”Well that was certainly more of a strain that I had anticipated. Though I will admit, it was also much more plausible than I had given you credit for originally. I could tell that not only did your channeling sigil contribute, but as well did your scroll. Without doubt the spell was stored, and I will expect it to activate without a hitch.” He looked down at his dirtied clothes and wiped sweat from his forehead. ”I will also trust you to ensure the same quality with the circle, even without my supervision. We haven’t much time now, so hurry. I must freshed myself for the presentation.”

Miro knew he would not have much time apart from the man, even with his overly attended appearance. Still he wished to complete the task before his employer would return. Especially with the sense of tension growing as the time of presentation drew nearer. He expected the man might have a slight nervous breakdown while away, so at least that would give him an extension on his work time. He knew that when the man returned that he would be ready to snap however, and need to prepare for whatever was to come next. This event seemed quite important in the man’s life.

The undead quickly made his way to the plate and familiarized himself with it once more. He would begin immediately, as the plan could not be concreted in his mind any more definitely. His supplies were set out and he began with the area nearest the circle itself. A large circle was drawn around it, a space was left blank, and then another larger circle was drawn around it. His time was taken to draw it carefully and with absolute precision. Now within the space of the circles he could perfect his first barrier. He was inspired to create a unique rune for this sigil.

He continued to paint several degrees of evenly spaced lines within the two until the space was mostly filled, and then began to weave a pattern along them. A checkered pattern of diamonds along, formed by diagonal lines. He went along the length and filled it in, until a woven set of thousands of diamonds was set within the series of circles. The further in one looked, the smaller the shapes became. It all began to blur and look as if the circles formed a swirling line down a long tunnel, and at its center was the circle.

The next step would be simple, to create a path by leaving a thin blank space between two barriers. But that would also mean he would have to create another barrier, though this one would be unique. The wizard drew another circle around the base, leaving the channel to act as the path. To make this barrier unique were the sixteen even cropped spaced filled in with smaller star shaped barriers. They were small and aligned with each of the numbers used for coordinates. And finally a circle was drawn around the outside of the altar to frame it all in. Now he could begin, the start of the finish.

On each side of the openings he drew another line away from the circle to form another set of paths. Each of the paths all led to one sixteen circles within the barriers that would serve as focuses. Miro began to fill them in immediately. Each of them identical to match the rune used in the scroll, the framed lotus shape. All that was left was to complete the final barrier that contained and guided the magic. Again the wizard formed the set of rings, though this time divided to disrupt the illusionary effect it had on the eyes. Though in its finish he knew its magical value hadn’t been harmed.

All that was left now was to fill in each of the focuses with their magic and program the trigger. And though the face of the altar would not be used for the last rune, the base of it would. Miro drew a much larger replication of the rune used on the scroll, the triangles snatching the attention to all who looked towards the altar. They were programmed to release the star shaped barriers and allow the spell stored within the focuses to travel along the path and create a wall of flames. The condition of its release was by touching the rune.. The effect would persist until the magic within the runes faded. Hopefully he had created enough runes to sustain the effect through the Summoning’s duration.

[Miro]

The Reimancer packed away his Glyphing supplies and produced the Res to fill each rune. He separated and hovered the substance above each focus and readied the spell. Just then Alendrus walked in, his face solemn, and his steps oddly quiet. He entered the curtain just in time to witness the shine of flames being absorbed into a focus with a flash of brilliant light. The wizard could hear his employer approaching and wished to put him at ease. ”Master Alendrus, you have returned. Just in time too, for I am done preparing, your sigil is done. It is just as we had discussed,.”

Alendrus walked about the altar and grinned. ”Ah, it is perfect, yes indeed. Tell me the command as I prepare you for our presentation. Your role is simple, but be ready for anything, and be sure I am successful. And remember, if you want your pay, do whatever I say. With magic and situations like these, everything can go bad in an instant.” Miro thought he understood what the man meant, but seemed slightly offput by it. There was something different about the man. He seemed sullen, no longer quite so frantic. The time away seemed to have done some good for him.

The Summoner took the scroll and tucked it into his beltline. ”A Black Sun official will arrive in ten chimes or so, and will decide my fate in Ravok. I have been given a very serious test, one to make my worth to Rhysol and the city known. As a wizard I have made some mistakes, and I have cost the city much more than I had originally promised. This is my chance to show I still have value. It is a very serious issue, and you are key to this all. At all costs, my display must be approved, and I need official verification of my value. If I do not I am taking you down with me.” The look on his face was droll and malicious both.

Miro could not tell if the threat was serious and the man had snapped, or if he was failing at a humorous attempt. Either way the shivers it gave were hardly appreciated. He would simply try to ignore the comment and diffuse the situation by playing the part. ”Of course, you can count on me. Your display it perfect, and everything will go well. I shall stand guard, prepare for the unexpected, and most of all ensure that your performance receives a positive review. Whatever it takes, I will see that we are both satisfied and that I have earned my pay.” Though in truth he already felt he had earned his pay, and wished to just be paid already. Should have known that a job performing magic could not be so simple.

Alendrus waved his finger and smirked wildly. ”Good, now go stand over there. I am glad you understand, and do not be alarmed if you get any coarse looks. It will not be your fault they don’t trust you.” The degree of change in the man was quite alarming, and perhaps his time alone had done more harm than good. The situation was starting to look dangerous, or at least not as quiet as he once thought. ”I will await our company, and you await any cue from me.” The man walked out of the curtain, though his false smile could still be heard on the other side.

Things were still for a while, but eventually he heard the Summoner start up. ”Ah, welcome, come now, inside the curtain. Be warned I have a guard inside.” He hesitated and laughed nervously. ”No of course not, it is for your protection as much as mine. No need to question my motive. I am a Summoner, it is standard procedure when working with dangerous creatures. Shoyden is a very dangerous place, filled with dangerous creatures. It takes a serious Summoner to be able to control a peak prey from there.”

The curtain peeled to reveal first Alendrus, then a robed man bearing a whitened eye and the insignia of the black sun. Along with him were two large men wearing the Ebonstryfe black brigandine armor. ”Well let us just hope for your sake that this display proves worth all of the time you have requested with it. We both know your fate shall you fail.” The official pushed the Summoner forth and cackled. ”Get on with it then!”

[Miro]

Alendrus walked up to the altar and pulled the scroll from his belt. For a moment he trembled, and Miro was able to realize what the stakes of this display. It was life or death. The reason pay wouldn’t be given was that a dead man doesn’t pay. It was obvious that there was consideration of the scroll being turned against the official and an escape to be made. But the scroll was placed on the ground and the man said a short prayer before beginning. Now would come the main event.

The Summoner bit his finger and dripped blood atop the circle, and the effect began. A flare of mystical aura burst forth, and the familiar oily scent filled the air. From the swirling black liquid rose a large bird, one Miro did not recognize. The creature stood atop the altar at nearly eight feet, and appeared to be hundreds of pounds in weight. It had an enormous beak and translucent red flesh. Its plumage was also red, though scarce on its body. Everything about the creature appeared deadly, and it quickly attempted to break free.

The creature’s chain was tightened, though it was apparent the wizard was not entirely capable of restraining its movements. Alendrus had hoped that his employee had taken his advice as he struck the altars trigger and released the torrent of flames. All around the create a wall of thin flames rose up nearly five feet high and danced about. ”Observe the Glassbeak, Shoyden’s most terrifying creature.” The bird cried out in terror at the sudden flames, and it quickly began to thrash, though now its movements were restrained.

Though both the wizard’s knew that when the flames ran out that the entirety of the sigil faded, along with the enhanced control the barriers afforded. It was not the short duration of the highly dissonant and specialized six circle that was used to summon the creature he would have to worry about at all. Truly he hadn’t suspected such a large specimen with the tuning of the portal. Things would need to be wrapped up quickly. ”Not even this beast poses a threat to a well prepared wizard, and is perfect to demonstrate how capable I am of dealing with problems.”

Alendrus rolled the scroll open on the floor and stood before the creature with his arm outstretched. He screamed the words, ”Tear open,” and the Void activated before his hand where it had been before. Along with the rapid tear of the portal came the rush of air being sucked in, and the wisps of flames danced toward the opening. Even the massive bird began to lift as the pull on the void increased to the point of ears popping. The flames broke the chain, and the creature was swallowed within. Quickly to follow it was the rapid closing of the portal. The Voider collapsed against the altar and began to wheeze and cough.

There was a short pause broken by the faint sound of gloved hands clapping. The Black Sun official laughed and clapped, and the guards he had with him joined in. ”Excellent display, just as promised. I will definitely make a note of your valiant effort. However with your history and trends, I am not sure that it will be enough. And if it is, you certainly won’t last long. Even second chances are a rare thing, and you are all too common. You shan’t get a third chance, and I’ll expect it won’t be long until we are forced to retire you. Either way, my business is concluded.”

Miro sighed and planted his face in his hand after the men walked away. Though Alendrus walked over and greeted him by planted his hands on the Reimancer’s shoulders. ”We did it! It was just as I envisioned it, and it turned out better than I had expected!” But the undead was not as enthused about the reaction. ”Not to upset you, but their reaction was not as positive as I had hoped. I thought it was quite the display myself. I haven’t seen Summoning like that in some time.” Though the man only laughed at the reply.

”They would have killed me had I not passed their test. Or at least tried to kill me. Obviously you were watching, and they would not get the chance. I am glad you held back though, as I was not sure you were going to.” Though the Chained One had no intention of acting against a Rhysol and his followers. ”Of course I would have. As I said, whatever it takes. And as I predicted everything went well. You were quite the performer. Have I earned my pay yet?”

Alendrus tossed Miro a pouch of coins and began to head for the exit. As he reached the threshold of the curtains he hesitated. ”You more than earned those Miro. If ever I need your help again, I shall post a notice at the Spot asking for you in specific. Enjoy your life, I know I shall enjoy mine.” His cackle could be heard all the way out into the hallway. Ender began to laugh as well and speak to his master.

”Things got tense there, and I thought I might have to act. The way you were being eyed, I thought they might attack. You were definitely regarded as a possible assassin meant to kill them and allow his escape. I was struggling to bite my tongues and hold still at times, but we managed to putt it off. You managed to pull it off I mean. Everything you did was perfect. I learned so much.”

Ender kept going on without giving his master time to reply. ”I learned much about Glyphing, and the new use for paths was especially enlightening. Even of Voiding and how to store it. Mostly I learned about the psychology of a wizard, and of the crazies. Alendrus turned out much different than I had expected, and you adapted to handle him well. I fear that I might have made a mistake were I in your shoes.”

And truly the last bit was something rarely heard. In fact the Familiar until now had never admitted that he would definitely had failed, let alone admit to a simple err. Though the master knew it happened often. ”Something are not as they seem, and sometimes we have to just play things by feel. I hadn’t much idea what I was doing either, only how to apply my skills. I am sure in my position you would have done just the same. Maybe even done a few things better.”

[Abstract]

Grade Awarded!

Miro

Skills

~ Familiary - 2
~ Observation - 3
~ Planning - 2
~ Hypnotism - 1
~ Glyphing - 3
~ Teaching - 1
~ Persuasion - 1

Lores

~ Glyphing: Enhancing a Summoning Circle
~ Glyphing: Wall of Flames
~ Alendrus: Summoner and Voider
~ Voiding: Opening Doorways to the Void
~ Glassbeak: Creature of Shoyden

Other

N/A

Notes

Nice thread, though I do have a comment... Glassbeaks exist quite commonly in Mizahar. They're a huge threat in the Sea of Grass... and I didn't think they were summoned creatures? It kind of confuses me.

I liked the way you represented the Summoner, though... certainly a little bit insane XD