For the better part of a week, mages and their entourages have been arriving, a good number of them coming directly from Rephidim itself. There are enough guards about to make Zahirinee's part of the woods seem more like an armed camp. And, there are enough apprentices tagging along (thankfully, none that are still cubs – save for Skiree) that at times things can take on a near carnival atmosphere, as they find one excuse or another to show off their proficiencies in their respective Spheres.

The bulk of the mages are of the Spheres of Water and Chaos, though there are also some practitioners of the Spheres of Shadow, Air, Life, and even Earth. The Earth Mages have been more concerned with inspecting the bed that the pool is located in, rather than the pool itself. The Shadow Mages are present to make use of a repertoire of spells meant to suppress magic … to help stabilize "spikes" in magic, or some other mumbo-jumbo that may occur during the ritual. The Air Mages are there to make sure that the ritual isn't disrupted by a storm. And the Life Mages are on hand in case something goes awry. Odds are, there's probably at least one representative of every Sphere here, if for no other reason than to tag along and be able to claim to be part of "history".

Preparations and initial rituals have long been underway. The Air Mages have been taking shifts in maintaining some sort of spell that's supposed to keep the weather nice and bland like it has been lately. Chaos Mages have been performing some ritual that's supposed to have something to do with "maximizing the quantum potential" of the region, or some magical jargon blather that sounds something remotely like that. And still others have been doing assorted "pre-ritual" exercises for more arcane reasons.

Tonight, the full-blown ritual is to begin in earnest, as all of the mages have assembled. Having their priorities, of course, they are having dinner first … as some mages may have to skip a few meals once they're in the middle of intense rituals, so there's no sense starting on an empty stomach.

Once again, Roho finds himself seated at what passes for a banquet table, though this one is open to the air. (Given the weather rituals going on, they aren't concerned about it raining. If it did rain despite the precautions, this whole gathering would be for naught, anyway.) It's night-time, and no doubt it would make for an interesting sight. Roho will have to settle for the sounds and smells.

The smoke of burning incense intermingles with the steamy smells of freshly-baked bread (must be a Fire Mage out here somewhere), roast Rughrat, broiled and buttered chibix back segments, mashed sweetbeets, honey-roasted locusts, hot xocholatl, countless varieties of juice, ale and wine, kyootcumber salad, sugarfir confections, and more, suited to the tastes of a wide variety of species represented amongst the Rephidimites. (Roho's keen ears can also pick up the muffled whines and squeals of some live Bromthen piglets and yiffles in cages over to the side, where most of the Nagas are congregated.)

Though the jargon-laden over-dinner chatter of a gathering of wizards and the clink of chitin utensils dominate what Roho's ears report, there is also the ongoing sound of chanting in the background, and the accompanying subdued music preferred by some mages in their greater rituals. The light tinkle of chimes, the throaty whisper of logpipes and the patter of hand-drums accentuates the magical, mystical nature of this particular gathering.

A couple of high-pitched voices catch Roho's attention momentarily – a couple of female Eeee, by the sound of it. "Yes, my daughter is doing well, I am told, though I so wish to see her again. I am a grandmother now, you know." "Ah … grandmother, yes. Well … Nice to meet you, Mage Scarlet. I heard a little about you from Envoy the Exile. She and I just returned from an expedition to Fortunatis. It was a sheer stroke of luck that I made it here in time."

Off in another direction, another conversation (among many) reaches Roho's ears. "… concerned that we may see a rise in such activity, if the authority of the Collegia Esoterica is not enforced – with cooperation between Rephidim, Babel and Nagai, of course. By allowing 'hedge wizards' to dabble on their own, in isolation, we risk the rise of power-hungry renegades … and, indirectly, we lend credence to confidence artists who use slight of hand or a few blue sparks to convince the layman that they are, in fact, wizards. Only by enforcing the wearing of a guild ring as the only true proof of magical aptitude can we protect against such fakery… "

And yet another: "… to meet with the High Prince Boghaz! The Baron's deeds for the defense of Rephidim are beyond question, but I wonder at the prince's commitment to order, if he entertains a renegade slave 'shaman' – purported to be a mage, however laughable – as if she were royalty… "

And another: "… may be on the verge of cracking down on such 'initiative' in the worship of deities within Rephidim. Temple doctrine has been comfortably vague for the longest time … the Technopriests worship technology, the Priests worship the First Ones, the Templar Champions worship the Star, the Inquisition worships information and secrecy, and the Audit worships shekels. True, we are a hub of culture, and all faiths in all gods can be found, but once a citizen begins erecting shrines that purport to worship, say, the First Ones, but preaches a message other than that of the Temple, the masses may be led astray. Freedom is good, but paramount is the maintenance of order, and only the Temple can provide that… "

It's Ring Day, and while it may not be such a big holiday to the surface nations, this is a gathering of Rephidimites, and thus it is an opportunity to feast, and to speak loudly and well of the Temple and other long-lived institutions … such as the Collegia Esoterica.

There's almost too much to see and hear, even for someone like Envoy. But the Exile could hardly have a better introduction to the various Spheres and those that practice them, even if she isn't quite sure why they're all here together yet. She finally ends up near the buffet table, and marvels at the choices. Maybe there's a Sphere of Catering she hasn't heard about yet…

Roho sits at the table, trying to relax. He's not entirely successful so far; he doesn't like mages, and this is more than he has been around in his entire life prior to tonight put together. He nibbles on a roast bug. Though he's not particularly hungry, the food is exquisitely prepared, and he also doesn't want to appear rude.

"Healer Roho!" Envoy has spotted the familiar ears from across the table, and makes her way around towards the seated Zerda. "I hadn't expected to see you here. Of course, I hadn't expected to be here in the first place, but even so it's a surprise."

"And speaking of Envoy," squeaks a female bat's voice, "I think that would be her, over there. And it looks like she's talking to … Oh! That'd be Doctor Roho! Will you please excuse me?"

Roho's ears lift up some at the sound of the familiar voice. He smiles, both in recognition of a friend, and of someone who isn't a mage. He stands, turning towards the voice. "Lady Envoy! I wouldn't have expected you here tonight."

Envoy smiles, and shakes Roho's hand in greeting. "I came with Wynona straight from the Gateway Tower. I learned lots of interesting things on Fortunatis, and this seemed like the best opportunity to see all the Spheres of magic working together. What brings you here?"

Roho smiles. "I was sent by Prince Boghaz, to keep an eye on Mage Scarlet's health. She had some unfortunate times recently, and they don't want to see her collapse in the middle of the ritual." He tilts his head. "Is Wynona here as well, then? That seems as though it would be a little strange."

"Wynona's being here is strange? She's headed this way now," Envoy says, and bends down to look under the table to see if Scarlet is there. Such a little Aelfin would be all but invisible in such a crowd.

Roho smiles. "It will be good to see her again." He blinks as Envoy starts checking out the feet, but has learned long ago not to question Envoy's actions. It's just more trouble than it's worth. He listens for the sounds of a familiar bat, or her sneezing.

"Tell me, Roho," Envoy asks, "Have you had any odd… uh… dreams recently? Maybe about me and Wynona?"

A female bat comes along. It sounds like she's dragging something light but bulky. "Doctor Roho! Doctor Roho! Oh, you don't know how relieved I am to see you alive and well!" she squeaks.

Roho smiles and nods, "I did have a very strange one recently, as a matter of fact. Both of you were in it. The surroundings were most peculiar, and so were the ways everyone acted. And something about beans, too." He tilts his head. "Why do you ask?"

Wynona struggles with something. "Oof! This isn't heavy, but … "

Envoy spots Wynona and her artifact. "Well, I think you're about to find out why, Roho."

Roho looks slightly confused. "Okay… " He does manage a smile at the approaching bat, though. "Hello, Wynona. It is good to hear you again."

Wynona ohs! "Look out!" Something makes the oddest scuffing noises … and Roho can sense something falling … very slowly … toward him.

Roho takes several steps back away from Wynona and Envoy as he feels something amiss. He doesn't exactly check where he's going too well, though.

With a scuffy "bip", the whatever-it-is hits the ground and bounces slightly.

Roho blinks. "What … what was that?"

"You," Envoy says. "Sort of."

"So sorry about that, Doctor Roho," apologizes the bat. "I wish … I wish you could see this. I don't know how to properly describe it. But it's a souvenir we brought back from our journey."

Roho's ears swivel towards Envoy's statement. He asks Wynona, "Journey to where?"

Envoy explains, "It's like one of those xocholatl statues, only it's made out of some sort of hard foam. We got it on Fortunatis, during your dream. Do you remember popcorn, too?"

"Fortunatis, Doctor Roho," answers the bat. She struggles to lift up the whatever-it-is. "It looks just like you! I was afraid that you'd turned into this … so I took it along, in hopes that someone might be able to transform you back. I see now that won't be necessary."

Roho shakes his head in confusion. "Vaguely. Are you trying to tell me that that was real?" He blinks. "It's … a figure of me?"

Wynona says, "Yes! It looks just like you! Well … except that it's all white, and made up of little grainy bits. And a few of the grainy bits came off, which makes me even more relieved that it's not you. And … well … I had to glue the ears back on. Transporting this can be rather awkward."

Envoy suggests, "If it wasn't made of this odd stuff, you could have used it to mark your grave."

Roho stands in stunned silence for a few moments. Then he plunks back down in his chair, and sits in stunned silence instead. "That was … real." He touches the foam statue lightly. "I remember the dream ending when I turned into this." He addresses Wynona, "How long have you been carrying it?"

Wynona looks to Envoy. "ENVOY! That's a horrid thing to say! Ahem. Ah … Yes, Doctor Roho … I believe… Oh dear … I don't have access to my travel notes at the moment. Well … a month, perhaps? That's only a guess."

Envoy blinks. "Oh, I apologize then. It's just that in the Old Cemetery there are so many grand statues in tribute to great people."

Roho looks very confused. "I'm … I'm touched that you were concerned enough that it might have been me to bring it so far … but I still can't understand how that could have been real. Where was this place again? You said another planet, in the dream."

Wynona says, "Oh! I … I didn't mean it like that, Envoy. Or, that is, I didn't … er … I … I hadn't thought of that, that is – WHOOP!"

A gust of wind (that happens a lot, what with so many air spells going off around here) catches up the big statue, and it goes airborne.

"Ah … pardon me, please," squeaks Wynona. "I have to chase you down, Roho. Or, I mean, the statue. That is … be right back!" She leaps into the air, flapping her wings.

Roho sits at his place at the table, quietly. He grabs his wine goblet, and takes a rather large gulp.

"I suppose you could put it in the lobby of the clinic anyway," Envoy says, watching Wynona chase the statue. "Do you know why all these Mages are here, Roho? I can't tell if the water of this pond is magical, or if it's the fish. Or something else in the pond… "

Roho shakes his head. "I'm not sure why they're all here either. I know they're going to try to 'heal' the waters of the pool, by magic, so that Master Zahirinee may use it for divining again."

Envoy blinks in surprise. "It's an oracular pool? I didn't know there were any on Sinai. My dragon-mother was an oracle. There was a scrying pool right in the middle of my … that is, Lothrhyn's grotto."

"Watch out!" "Hey!" "What is that thing?" "Amazing!" "Look out!" *crash* *bip* "Look out where you're going!" "It can't look out where it's going." "Hey you!" squeak! "Terribly sorry! I'll catch him right away!" "Hey! Isn't that … her?" "Oh no… "

Roho smiles. "I don't know what they call it, but Zahirinee uses it to see what has happened, and what may yet happen." His ears lift up, tracking in on Wynona. "Oh my … It sounds like my doppleganger is causing a bit of a stir."

"Scarlet must be hiding," Envoy comments, since she hasn't spotted the Aelfin yet. "She hero-worships Wynona, you see, although I can't imagine what she must think seeing her chasing after your bouncing statue."

Roho hmms. "Has Wynona heard anything about Scarlet in recent weeks? Because she's undergone some … changes. It's a little difficult to explain, but she's no longer Aelfin."

Envoy looks at the Zerda. "What do you mean, no longer an Aelfin?"

Snippets of conversations can be heard in the background. "… further proof that college standards should be raised to prevent distractions like this … " "… Would you like to try some honeyed locusts, Mage Scarlet?" "Oh! Thank you, good sir! My favorite!" "… I say, old chap … but that flying white Zerda isn't part of the entertainment for tonight, now is it?" "I hadn't heard of any entertainment planned at all, your Incantatiousness."

Envoy says, "The last I'd heard from Scarlet, she was returning to her homeland to help against invaders."

Roho nods, trying his best to ignore the hubbub his "statue" is causing. "She died in that expedition, Envoy. She was kept alive by a magic wand she had, but that was only enough to keep her spirit intact until a Life Mage could transfer her to a new body. She is now an Eeee."

The Exile doesn't say anything for a few moments. Finally, she asks, "Is she changed in any other way?"

Roho shrugs. "I'm not certain. Offhand, I'd say yes. She doesn't seem the same as before the incident. But I only met her shortly before, and during that time she was under a lot of pressure. Dying and being placed in a new body probably can change a person."

"I suppose so," Envoy says, while looking around at the various Eeee mages for one wearing the robe of the Sphere of Water.

Roho nods, unsure of what to say to Envoy. He listens for Wynona, trying to see if he's been caught yet.

There happens to be one in robes of varying shades of blue, green and turquoise (not that Roho can enjoy those particular details), with white fur much like Wynona's, and with bright red hair. This looks like the bat that Wynona was chatting with earlier before noticing Roho. The Eeee mage munches contentedly on the last of some honeyed locusts.

As for Wynona … Roho doesn't pick up any exclamations or protests or squeaks of apology, so hopefully that's a good sign.

Envoy tries to catch the red-haired Eeee's attention, figuring that Scarlet would recognize her if that was the mage in a new body.

It takes a while, since Envoy is doing nothing undue to draw attention to herself other than just being visible, but the red-haired Eeee happens to look in Envoy's direction, and spews some juice. Then, she breaks into a wide smile. "Envoy!" she squeaks, and she hops up from her seat, practically bounding over.

"Can I refill your drink, Doctor Roho?" asks a passing female Jupani.

Envoy smiles, "Hello, Scarlet … That is you, isn't it? Is something wrong with the juice?"

"Oh!" The Water Mage giggles. "No, there is nothing wrong with my juice. I was surprised to see you here. And yes it is me! I have a new body, for I was slain while helping my daughter in Aelfhem. But I was given a new body, which cured me of my spherical condition. I like it very much," she tells the Exile.

"Spherical?" Envoy asks. "Well, I'm glad you aren't dead. Did you get to meet Wynona yet?"

"Oh yes!" Scarlet tells Envoy. "She is very nice in person. I am very glad to have met her. Oh! Have you met Doctor Roho? Doctor Roho helped to save me," the Water Mage tells Envoy.

Envoy nods, "I've known Roho for quite a while now. He's helped patch me up, too."

"It is unfortunate he could not keep me from dying the first time, but I think he did an admirable job with bringing back the dead!" the Water Mage tells Envoy.

The Exile giggles. "How was it done? I'm trying to learn more about magic before applying myself to a Sphere. Did they make this new body for you as well?"

"I have a magic wand, called the 'Wand of F', which was given to me by Duke Feli Kurai of Sylvania. It was used to bring me back to life, though in a spherical form," the Water Mage tells Envoy. "As for this body, well, it was formerly occupied by one of the pirates who killed my son-in-law. The pirate was to be executed, but the body was put to better use by giving me a new form." Scarlet smiles sweetly.

Envoy blinks. "I wouldn't have thought of doing it that way. I didn't know magic could accomplish such things, even after I met its source on Fortunatis."

"Oh, yes, magic can do wonderful things. That is why I became a Mage, like my heroine, Wynona. So pleased to meet you again! Oh! Excuse me … I think I see someone. Good evening!" the Water Mage tells Envoy, before turning to walk away.

The Exile watches the new Scarlet walk off. "I suppose she fits in better now," she says to nobody in particular.

A flash of white betrays Wynona's location, at the other end of the eating area. It looks like she is tying down the white image of Roho to a tree, using some cord she procured somewhere.

Envoy makes her way through the crowd towards her other Eeee friend. "You wouldn't expect such an old man to be so spry, would you Wynona?" she jokes, indicating the light statue.

Wynona wipes her brow, giggling at the joke. "Whew! Now he'll behave himself, so he won't have people chasing after him all the time." She looks back to Envoy. "So! What do you think? Quite a gathering here." Her ears flush slightly. "Of course, I didn't come here without a bit of trepidation. I've already been recognized a few times. But I figured it was my duty. I owe Master Zahirinee, after all."

Envoy blinks at the Air Mage. "I don't understand? I thought I was the only infamous one here?"

Wynona gulps. "Oh. I didn't tell you the whole story, then. Silly me! I figured everyone knew by now. You see, the reason all these people are here is because of a … mistake I made, a long time ago. Did you hear about the Lalee Papu incident?"

Envoy nods. "My friend Jarik was on that ship."

Wynona nods, frowning. "And several of my friends. I was in the middle of a ritual at the time that the ship exploded. I certainly doubt I could replicate the incident, but the sudden interruption of my spell had a curious side effect. I was, in essence, blown clear across Sinai. I'm not certain whether I actually went sailing through the air the whole way, or whether some sort of 'teleportation' was involved. But I awoke in Aelfhem." Her ears blush. "I didn't have much left with me. The Aelfin, however, provided for me, and, after a little distraction with some unfriendly locals, I was allowed to leave, and I headed northward for Ashdod."

Envoy nods, smiling. "I know about the Aelfhem part. You were a hero to them."

Wynona ears blush again. "Yes, well, I've heard about that. Ahem. Really, I believe that was just a case of being in the right place at the right time. I made a number of mistakes that could have spelled disaster. It's a miracle that things worked out as well as they did. In any case, I digress. I traveled northward, and came to this place – the abode of Master Zahirinee, a seer."

"Is he or she a dragon?" Envoy asks.

"At that time, his pool was working," Wynona explains, "and he granted to myself a chance to get an answer to one of my questions. I wished to know of the true fate of the Lalee Papu … whether it was my fault. And … Oh, no, he's an Eeee, not a dragon."

Wynona continues, "Anyway, Master Zahirinee has this apprentice, a little Eeee by the name of Skiree. She lost a toy in the pool … I forgot what toy it was, really … and was looking for it. I, daft as I am, thought nothing of using an air spell to push away the waters to help find the toy. Skiree got the toy … and I got in trouble." Wynona slumps.

Envoy blinks. "Was it Mister Porky? Why did using a spell cause trouble?"

Wynona says, "Mister … Porky? That might be it. Honestly, I'm not entirely sure just how I disrupted the pool, but basically, the pool was magically stilled, and my enacting of a spell to disrupt the waters disrupted that enchantment as well. In order to repair the damage, so that Master Zahirinee can continue his experiments, there are several Chaos and Water mages required. There are some Shadow Mages as well, to suppress some of the magical 'waves'… and a few Earth Mages in case the bed of the pool itself may need special treatment. Plus, there are Air Mages to make sure the ritual isn't rained out, since we're doing this outside, and it's the rainy season."

Envoy ohs. "So it's not a natural oracle then. Wouldn't it be easier to use something other than a pool of water?"

Wynona says, "I gather it was working just fine, until I … ah … disrupted it. I imagine that the odds of an Air Mage coming by and casting some spell to stir up the waters of the pool would be, under normal circumstances, quite rare. And as for the utility of a pool … well, that really doesn't fall within my Sphere. I couldn't speak intelligently about it. I'd imagine there must be something inherently special about this area. A magical … ah … what's the term? Locus?"

"My mother called it an Eye," Envoy says. "The Eye of the World. Only the one I knew didn't have fish in it."

Roho shows up in the conversation, having eaten his fill back at the banquet, and smiles to Envoy and Wynona. "Ah, the fateful tale of Mister Porky. I was a little surprised to know you had come to the ceremony, Wynona. Though others may think it improper, though, I think it's very thoughtful."

"Oh! Roho! I'd lost track of you," squeaks the bat. "Or, I mean, I caught you. Er … well … your double, that is. Well, here he is!" She taps the foam fennec. "Would you like to keep it, by any chance?"

Roho chuckles, "I suppose it could make an interesting curiosity in the hospital. Perhaps the disgruntled patients can stick pins in it."

Wynona ouches at the thought.

Envoy blinks. "I thought the children might like to color it with crayons."

Wynona says, "I think I like that idea better. Far more pleasant. And, just think … this is a genuine artifact from Fortunatis! I doubt you'll find another quite like it. I mean, I really, really doubt it."

"At least," the Exile adds in, "until you have another weird dream."

Roho chuckles. "So, it wasn't a dream? Can you two tell me what exactly happened?" He smiles, "And I doubt I shall see another like it ever, no."

Envoy says, "Wynona accidentally wished you to another world so she could have some sneezing remedy. Right Wynona?"

Wynona says, "Well … I'm not really sure how that happened. It wasn't exactly as if all our wishes could come true. I couldn't figure out the 'rules' of whatever was going on."

Wynona says, "But, yes, I did wish I had something to deal with my allergies. Not that it was much of a problem overall on Fortunatis. Except every now and then."

Roho nods. "I, um … I remember finding a flower on Envoy's horn in the dream. Did that help any?"

Envoy rubs the tip of her horn at the memory.

Wynona says, "I still have the flower. I decided not to take any chances by trying to make use of it. I figured that if it came from Envoy's horn … well … I wasn't so certain just how safe it'd be to be growing plants from your body."

"I used to do it all the time," Envoy says, shrugging.

Roho tilts his head at Envoy. "You … did?" He shakes his head. "This is all a bit much for me."

Wynona says, "Rrrrr… Ahhh… "

Envoy says, "Mostly fruit though. It was easiest. Maybe if I study Earth magic, I could do it again, do you think?"

Roho chuckles. "You may not want to try, Envoy. Unless you particularly need it."

Wynona says, "Well … Earth Magic would be useful for doing … strange, unique things with plants. But so is Life Magic. They overlap in that area, I think."

Wynona says, "Of the two, Earth Magic is probably a better specialty. And it's pretty broad in application."

Roho shakes his head. "I will never understand mages." He realizes whom he's speaking with, and looks sheepish. "No offense, Wynona."

Envoy hmmms. "Are there Earth Mages here you could introduce me to? I don't think I could get into the Sphere of Life while the current dean is in power… "

"Do you understand me?" Envoy asks Roho.

Roho shakes his head at Envoy. "No. I never have." He smiles. "But I like you!"

Envoy beams! "Then maybe that means I'll be a good mage."

Wynona says, "I'm pretty sure I saw an Earth Mage or two earlier. They usually wear orange robes. Though if they get too much into their work, they might be stained brown or black or green or such."

"Are the robes really important to the magic?" Envoy asks, looking concerned. "Orange really isn't my color."

Roho stops a passing Apprentice waiter, swiping a cup of wine from a tray. "I think they just help the mages to tell who is who."

Wynona says, "Well, you could always tweak the colors just a bit. You might be able to get away with brown … or … oh … amber?"

Envoy smiles. "I suppose that works!" She pats the amber teardrop that's part of her Vykarin necklace.

Wynona nods. "It's mainly just a sort of … oh … badge of office. Well, not office, exactly. See? I usually dress in blue. That's the color associated with my Sphere. Rephidim isn't all that strong on particulars … especially now that I'm a Journeyman. But when you're an Apprentice, you don't get as much leeway."

Envoy asks, "How long does someone have to stay an Apprentice?"

Wynona says, "It varies greatly. Some Apprentices start as children and pretty much will stay that way for years. A few people who show special aptitude may start late in life. There's no real standard, I'm afraid."

"I understand," notes Wynona, "that Mage Scarlet got to Journeyman status exceedingly quickly. She only started in the time after my journey to Aelfhem. And that hasn't been very long."

"I'm only three," the Exile claims. "Is that too young?"

Wynona says, "Ahhh … Considering the widely varying lifespans of sapient species on Sinai, they don't really have specific age limits. You just have to go through all sorts of tests and get approved by various judges if they think there's an issue."

Envoy hmms. "Tests? Can I have Roho write a note saying I'm healthy, or will they want to dissect me to see how I can be a golem that isn't animated by magic?"

Wynona says, "Ahhh … Don't try giving them any ideas. Maybe they won't think of it first."

Roho chuckles. "Yes, best see what they want first, before bringing any ideas into their heads. You are a rather singular case, after all."

"Of course," adds Wynona, "I'm assuming you'd be going to Rephidim. You could also look into the other Colleges on Sinai. Rephidim is your best chance to get a wide selection of resources, and a well-controlled, safe environment. Well … as safe as can be possible. Fire Magic is never safe, after all."

"I suppose I'll be safe if I keep away from the Life Mages then," Envoy says. "The Mind Mages will avoid me on their own. I don't think the Institute for Advanced Sorcery would care to have me back either, for that matter. And I like Rephidim … and the Temple probably wouldn't want me to be somewhere they didn't have access. I don't know if the City of Hands has started a magical college yet."

Wynona says, "There's Babel, for one thing. A pretty wide selection, with a higher number of Shadow Mages and those focusing on the Elements. And then there's Nagai, if you're more into the mental and spiritual aspects. I suppose you might look at some of the smaller branches of the Collegia Esoterica as well, but those tend to have limited resources, and mostly just cater toward their particular localities."

Envoy says, "All of my friends are in Rephidim, and the College there has the best resources. I don't plan on limiting myself to one Sphere if I'm accepted, either. Plus, I could help Roho grow his herbs."

Wynona nods. "Yes, Rephidim's probably the best all-around choice for you. And as for the City of Hands … Well, I really wouldn't recommend getting trained in some place that isn't accredited by the Collegia Esoterica. Guilds can be rather protective of their territory. You might run into hassles if you try to practice magic in Rephidim without being able to prove guild membership."

Roho's ears perk. "I had been considering starting more of a greenhouse for the hospital. It could be very useful for cultivating some of what I've found over the years."

The Exile blinks again. "Oh, I hadn't thought about that part. Mages have to charge money for services and such. Or is that just to pay for the cost of their education? Do you make lots of money and get to keep it, Wynona?"

Wynona says, "Well, when I was a Journeyman, I was required to pay a portion of my earnings, toward paying off my tuition. Since then, I've managed to pay off my debts entirely, so I'm self-employed for the most part. Still, there are expenses to cover for certain material components for more complex spells … and then, there are all the chalks and candles and such. Plus I have to feed and clothe myself, naturally. There are a number of rules and regulations on what prices are to be charged for spells … but they're usually ignored. They only get invoked, really, if someone causes some sort of a fuss by undercutting another mage by charging a lower rate, below guild standards."

Envoy smiles. "Could you loan me the money to go to the College? I don't suppose they have an Exile scholarship program. If I become an Earth Mage, I should be able to get you all the chalk you need."

Wynona says, "Well … it all depends. If you could get yourself tested, and you prove to have especially high aptitude, you might be able to get a sponsor from the College. They do that from time to time. But they'd have to be convinced that you'd be dependable and that you wouldn't be a wild card or anything like that. You'd just be expected to pay off your tuition once you reach Journeyman status."

"Wild card?" Envoy asks. "What's that? I'm not the least bit wild… I don't even have any primitive ancestors, technically."

Wynona ponders. "Uhm … a troublemaker. Unpredictable. A tendency to get into trouble. Flighty."

Envoy shrugs her wings? "I don't know how to be predictable, but I don't make trouble."

The Aeolun puffs out her chest a bit. "In fact, I draw trouble onto myself to spare others. Isn't that right, Roho?"

Roho chuckles. "Yes, it's been known to happen, Lady Envoy."

Wynona shrugs. "Well … it's just that Exiles can have a certain stigma attached to them. The College isn't likely to soon forget that Exile 'Kitsune' who became an Illusionist pretty quickly … and then … well … you probably know the rest."

"Francisco was my friend," Envoy says. "You don't think they'd still hold the death of Isstan against me? Or that incident with the Chigai demon? Or the zombie attack in the Opera House?"

Wynona says, "I would hope not. I'd recommend not reminding anybody. That's the way I usually deal with … ah … little mishaps I've caused. If anybody needs to bring up the issue, it needn't be me."

Envoy hmms, thinking. "I don't suppose the College would have any legitimate reasons to turn me away if I showed talent. How do I find out if I have enough talent?"

Wynona shrugs. "You get tested for aptitude. Some mages examine you using certain spells, and you get taught some simple cantrips that you can cast with the help of some dweomers to give you an added 'boost'. If you can handle that, then you can be qualified to become an Apprentice."

Roho listens to the conversation with interest, sipping at his wine.

"That's all?" Envoy says, surprised. "Can I get tested here? There are lots of Mages around, after all… "

Wynona hmms. "Not a bad idea, really. They might be a bit distracted … but maybe once the ritual is done with. Maybe if you just lie low a while, camp out for the week or so, and once they're all done, you could catch them before they head back off to Rephidim or wherever. If things go well, they might be in a really good mood, and more likely to oblige. Especially if you butter them up a bit."

Envoy stares at Wynona. "Butter them up? Wouldn't that attract a lot of insects?"

Roho shakes his head and stifles a giggle.

Wynona puts a hand to her head and groans. "That's … a figure of speech. Uhm … flatter them. Compliment them. Try to get on their good side… Er … that's another figure of speech. Ah … Make a favorable impression?"

It looks like many of the mages have cleared out … especially the Water and Chaos Mages. They've congregated around the pool, and it looks like they're busily working on magic circles, with the help of their Apprentices and other assistants. The more experienced mages head about, directing the activity.

"Ingratiate myself?" Envoy asks. "Would that work better with the Apprentices, since the Mages will be too busy with their rituals and debauchery to really notice?"

Wynona ponders this. "There might be some merit in that. But Apprentices can party, too, you know."

Envoy smiles. "I can be entertaining. I know lots of fairy tales, and I can sing. If I devote a lot of attention to it, I can even act like a normal member of society. Although I haven't figured out flirting yet, beyond giggling at whatever someone says that seems confusing."

"Ah … Don't try flirting. It can be dangerous. Not worth the risks," advises Wynona, looking faintly nervous. "And giggling all the time can make them think you're an … ah … airhead."

"That can work fine at parties, but not when you're trying to impress a mage with your intellect," Wynona amends.

Envoy says, "Is that a nickname for Air Mages that conjure up too much nitrous oxide gas? I don't know if I've impressed people with my intellect or not so far. They usually just give me strange looks and back away slowly."

Wynona scratches her head. "There are good impressions and bad ones."

Envoy blinks. "That makes a difference? Fenter seemed to do okay without having to rely on good impressions. Perhaps he's a genius, though."

"Then again," Envoy considers, "I probably shouldn't seem too smart, right? That seems to put some people off, I've noticed."

Wynona says, "Well … Fenter is … special. I'm not really sure how he manages to get by. As for seeming smart … I think it's more a matter of … well … Try not to confuse people so much. Mages, especially the older ones, like to appear to know what they're talking about. If you seem to them to be making no sense at all, they might not give you the benefit of a doubt, and just assume you're spouting gibberish."

Envoy hmms. "I suppose I shouldn't mention any of the things I learned on Fortunatis then. I probably shouldn't talk about myself at all, really. Does asking people to talk about themselves endear oneself to them?"

Wynona nods. "Most people I've met love to talk about themselves. I would, too, if most of my more interesting stories weren't quite so humiliating."

Wynona says, "It just pays to be careful. If it looks like they don't want to talk about themselves, then it's not wise to press the point. Then you're not politely curious, but nosy."

"Just one question at a time then?" Envoy asks, looking a bit disappointed.

Roho chuckles. "I believe most people prefer that, I'm afraid."

Wynona nods. "It's especially wise if you ask too many yes or no questions. They could answer any one of them … and then you waste time trying to figure out which question they asked you."

Envoy asks, "Are there any subjects I should avoid talking about altogether, even if I'm asked?"

Wynona hmms. "Well … anything odd about … oh … that rumor about eating brains, and such. I think, really, the worst you can do is just make a flippant comment about, say, some oddity about yourself, without properly explaining. It's the lack of context that can get you in trouble, because you're leaving the story at the mercies of the imagination of your listener."

Envoy says, "I suppose I could just claim anything weird as a publicity stunt from my performing days. I don't like being dishonest, though."

Wynona hmms. "Well … you could always say 'It's a long story', and if they insist upon hearing it, then, well, you gave them fair warning!"

"I can still be nice to Savanites and Kavis and cubs though, right?" Envoy asks. "Would that count against me?"

Wynona says, "Ahhh … I don't think that should count against you."

Wynona looks askance to Roho. "Haven't you any advice to offer? The wisdom of age, and all that? You've got a better reputation than I do, anyway."

"You're nice to everyone," Envoy points out, "and they hardly ever call you 'Wrong-Way' anymore. Maybe people accept that Mages can be a bit eccentric that way?"

Roho laughs softly. "In dealing with the Temple and College? Not really, no. The only times I've dealt with them, I've always ended up annoying somebody. Everything there is about politics and backbiting."

Envoy's eyes go wide. "I don't want to get bitten on my back!"

Wynona sighs, rolling her eyes. "Figure of speech, Envoy."

Roho smiles at Envoy. "I'm sorry, I sometimes forget the trouble you have with figures of speech. It means getting undermined."

Wynona says, "At least it's a step up from Babelite politics. Everything there is about politics and backstabbing. And sometimes it isn't a figure of speech."

Envoy hmms. "Do you have to stab others there, or can you get ahead by just surviving being stabbed yourself?"

Wynona says, "Ah … what I mean is … in Babel, many of my race seem to live by the slightly modified proverb of 'Do unto others before they do unto you'. There's not all that much trust there. There's a lot of politicking going on, and people spend a lot of time trying to gauge other peoples' worth against how much of a threat they might pose."

"Just about everyone in authority on Rephidim thinks I'm a threat," Envoy frets. "I probably wouldn't do well in Babel, no matter how fast I heal."

Wynona nods. "Probably. Well … hmm … I wonder why nobody has come yet to tell me it's my shift to help with the air rituals? I haven't been able to get a schedule out of anybody."

Roho tilts his head. "Do they, uh, know who you are?"

"Are you implying that they'd snub Wynona just because she caused the problem they're here to fix?" Envoy asks. "That seems unlikely, since they all are obviously enjoying themselves."

Roho shakes his head. "They might. They are a very jealous crowd, and guard their territory. If an Air Mage feels she is cutting in on his action, he may make an issue of it."

Wynona slumps. "Yes … I suppose that might be it. Though … OHHHH!" She simmers. "You know, I've been doing really good with my allergies, for the most part. And it's not like I'm going to go after any lost toys. If Skiree dumps another doll in the pool … well … she can swim after it! Or go fishing … or … ohhhhh! Drat it all!"

Envoy blinks, then just says, "I didn't understand any of that, Roho, but if I just nod and smile to you, it wouldn't have the appropriate effect."

Roho chuckles at Envoy. "I shall just assume you've smiled and nodded, then." He nods to Wynona. "I'd trust you far more than most of those others out there. Were it up to me, you'd be one of the ones running the show here. I just wish more felt the same way."

Envoy says, "You don't put on airs like a lot of mages do when they get as successful as you, Wynona. And by 'airs', I mean a condescending attitude, not winds or anything."

"After all," the Exile points out, "how many of them have been role models for others?"

Wynona sighs. "Well … It's probably for the best. With any ritual, there's always a chance of something going wrong. Even if something went wrong with my spell for a perfectly good reason … it would look especially bad, since I don't have a very good record."

Roho nods. "They would probably call it malicious, or something." He sighs and rubs his ears. "Frankly, I can't wait for this to be done with. It's interesting, but there's too much magic in the air."

"I've never seen you goof up," Envoy says. "At least, not when it would have made a difference."

Envoy smiles. "And that little rain cloud you had follow you around the Bazaar was pretty neat, really."

Wynona giggles, covering her face. "That wasn't … ah … intentional."

Wynona says, "Well … I suppose we could always find a good seat and just watch the proceedings. It'll be slow, I assure you … but at least we have less competition for the food, so we can stuff our faces to our hearts' content."

Envoy looks to see if Roho reminds Wynona that the heart pumps blood, and doesn't process food.

Roho shows no signs of warning Wynona of this fact. He smiles. "Perhaps. Oh, did you ever manage to run into Mage Scarlet?"

Wynona nods. "Yes. She's over with the Water Mages now. It was a bit embarrassing. She was practically gushing." She frowns, a pained expression crossing her face. "I just … "

Roho tilts his head, "Just what?"

Wynona says, "Well … she used to be an Aelfin, you know. And … she's not, anymore."

Roho nods. "Yes, I'm aware of that. It's … a strange situation. Does she strike you as having changed much otherwise?"

"I wonder if she's met anyone that knows the original owner of the body yet," Envoy whispers. "What if it has a family she doesn't even know about yet?"

Wynona's eyes fill with tears. "Yes. What if? I mean … I know this is Babelite law and all … but … I mean … even if she was a pirate … "

Roho nods. "It seems … strange to me, as well. I mean, what exactly did they do with the old owner? Cast her into the void? And … it seems terribly callous and cruel." He shudders briefly. "But, that's probably just my healer self talking."

Envoy says. "It's not like a demonic possession. I mean, taking over bodies isn't unnatural to me, but not while they're still alive. I wonder why anybody developed that sort of spell in the first place?"

Roho shudders again. "Probably to take over bodies of people in power, so they could manipulate their position."

Wynona wipes at her eyes. "I … I heard it was a ritual used by the Sabaoth. That's how he maintained his immortality. He found new 'vessels' to inhabit when his body got old."

Envoy blinks three times. "That seems dangerous. He'd have to really trust his mages. Are there any immortal mages you know of?"

Wynona shakes her head. "I don't know of any. Just legends and such." She sniffles.

Wynona says, "I … I realize they were pirates and all … but condemning anyone to be fed upon by a horrib … and … taking over someone else's body … I'm sorry … but I just don't feel very good about just how good of a role model I really am."

Roho rests a paw on Wynona's shoulder. "You've at least got a good enough soul to know right from wrong in your field. And your Sphere isn't anywhere close to as corrupt as some of the others have the potential to be. You're about the best role model for a young mage I can think of."

Envoy frowns in thought. "An Eeee called me a monster once, because I didn't show any respect for the dead. Remember that, Roho?"

Roho nods at Envoy, his ears flattening. "Yes, I do."

Wynona sniffs. "Babelites may show respect for the dead … but not so much for the living. The dead can't pose a threat anymore, I suppose."

Envoy doesn't comment on that. Zombies are a special case, after all…

After watching the ritual for a bit, Envoy can't help but ask, "Why can't they just freeze the water first? Then it couldn't be disturbed during the ritual. Or would melting it later count as disturbing it?"

Roho opens his mouth to protest … then closes it again. That's actually an interesting point!

"That's an interesting thought, Envoy," says Wynona. "I'm sure there's probably a good reason why not, but I've no idea why. I'm just an Air Mage, after all."

Envoy suggests, "Maybe it's just too obvious. Big magic is supposed to be delicate and complicated, right?"

Roho nods. "Or perhaps the lake needs to be magically stilled from top to bottom, and freezing would only work on the top."

Wynona giggles. "You're right, I suppose! Well … I think I'm going to go watch for a bit." She wipes at her eyes.

Roho squeezes Wynona's shoulder. "You going to be okay?"

Envoy smiles to Wynona. "I'm going to bring the Apprentices cake. Is that a good thing to do?"

Wynona says, "Ah … not while they're in the middle of the ritual. Maybe you could just have it handy for when any of them take a break. Then you're bound to win some points with them." She shakes her head. "I … I think I'll be okay, Roho. I … This is a bit of a shock, that's all. Some things are just so strange that it takes a while for the reality to sink in."

Roho nods. "Maybe some time away from the rituals, to sit and think, might help you."

Wynona nods. "It's worth a try, I suppose. I don't know if I'm quite ready to run into Cyr – Mage Scarlet again."

Envoy blinks at the slip, but doesn't pursue it.

Roho nods at Wynona. "I will be doing the same, probably. The woods around here are beautiful, and very soothing." He stretches, then grins. "I guess we should just leave my lighter half here, against the tree?"

"It should be safe," Envoy says, "unless the squirrels start to worship it."

Roho blinks at Envoy. "That … Um … That is a risk we'll just have to take."