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 Posted: Wed Sep 08, 2010 11:41 am
So here's my chapter two. If you want to read the introduction and chapter one send me a pm and i'll give you the link to my DA site where it's living.
I divided it into 4 parts and I'm gonna post each part in a seperate post, same thread, just so you're not faced with a massive wall of text. Here's part one
Chapter 2, Section 1: Questions
Listener: Ok, that's all well and good telling me that she was confused about everything going on and didn't react well at first but I still don't get what relevance the story of Marianne has to you not coming back. [He looks exasperated, throwing his hands into the air] I already know all of this anyway. [He crosses his arms over his chest, in effect sulking]
Julian: All the stories just say what happened, they don't tell you what she's like, what she was going through. [He raises a knowing eyebrow and holds out a hand for the next sentence] The fact is no one cares what she was like, they only care that she saved us nothing more. [He crosses his arms over his chest] That doesn't sit well with me. The Council didn't listen to me when they had the chance and they didn't listen to her and she ended up dead. [his face is very angry now] They're backwards and prejudiced to those less powerful.
Listener: [Holding up both hands in a placating manner] Ok I get it. You want me to realise what she was going through and understand. [He sits facing forwards now, holding one hand out towards Julian. He watches a woman with a pram go past.] The Council is changing though.
Julian: [He has his clenched fists beside his head which is leaning forwards. The elbows of his arms are on his knees] I don't want you to pretend to understand, I just want you to try. And they may well be changing but it's too late and too slow.[He crosses his arms to emphasise his point]
Listener: [He takes on the appearance of someone who is bored, throwing his head casually to the side, not even looking at Julian] Is there more to this story or are you just leaving it there and using me as a verbal punching bag for your opinions on archaic institutions?
Julian: [Looking at him in irritation] Of course there's more.[He holds out a hand in front of him] It took Marianne turning up for most of us to realise the self-imposed segregation that was taking place, encouraged by the Council. She saw it everywhere, in the dorms, in the classes and in friendship groups. She was shocked.
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Posted: Wed Sep 08, 2010 11:42 am
Second Part
Chapter 2, Section 2: Stepping Out[/]
Marianne: Holy Crap! [She looks on in shock. Gradually she walks over the bridge to the dormitory buildings, looking at various buildings on the islands. Small airships float past. She reaches the peak of the bridge and sees groups of people clustered in groups] {Thought}- 'Why are they all in little groups based on species?' [She sees Julian who is talking to a tall elf female and waves at him. He smiles and waves beck. She reaches him] Julian hey! Can you help me get my trunk to my room? ... Where is my room? [She looks very confused]
Elf Girl:: [Smirking] You need to go the main reception through those doors there [She points at the double doors] Just give them your name and they'll tell you which room your in. Anyway, so I said to Jethro, that I wouldn't go on a date because-[Stares at her] Why are you still here Freshman? You're expected to carry your own things [Sneers at Marianne] Run along and leave the Juniors alone now. [She does a waving action with her hand, motioning Marianne away]
Marianne: [She stares at the Elf-girl as though she can't believe she's just spoken to her that way] Excuse me but what the hell gives me the right to talk to me like that? I'm the same age as Julian!
[The two women square up to each other, Elf-Girl towering over Marianne with her arms relaxed and small bust pushed out and Marianne glaring up at the Elf with her arms clenched at her side, almost standing on tiptoe. Julian quickly gets between them]
Julian: Now, now ladies. Elvera, I'll be back in a short while. [Elvera crosses her arms and glares at Julian] She's my friend and I promised I'd help her. Come on Marianne. [He places his arm around her shoulders and leads her away. Elvera glares after them, arms folded. Julian whispers into Marianne's ear.] Try not to annoy her, her mother's one of the Parent Governors and she almost rules the school. [He mutters a few words, small golden symbols spiral from his hands to twirl around the trunk and it hovers a few inches above the ground] Now lets find your room.
[The pair step into a great reception hall and where trunks are piled in neat rows. Julian directs the trunk to join the end of the row. He leads Marianne through the next room where a set of suitcases sweep up and around. There is a desk with set of numbered cubbies behind it. There's a man in a suit stood behind the desk. Julian crosses to him, pulling Marianne behind him]
Julian: Hello Maximillian, how are you? Did you have a good summer off? [To Marianne] Maximillian is the desk steward. If there's a problem you come to him and he'll sort it out [Turning back to Maximillian] So... Do you have the key for Miss Marianne Jacques-Fillion's room?
Maximillian: [Looking very blank] Quite. [Reaches beneath the desk and pulls up an envelope] Miss Jacque-Fillion is in Room 582, 3rd floor. Mail collection is open 9am until 11 am and again in the afternoon from 3 until 5. The desk is open twenty-four hours. Any questions refer to your Academy guide, it's in your room. [Hands the envelope to Marianne, Julian reaches for it, he pulls it away from Julian's grasp and raises an eyebrow at him, Julian hangs his head and Marianne takes the envelope nervously.] Good day Ma'am.
[The pair walk away and Julian nips to get her trunk. Marianne opens the envelope to find an ornate key with a small tag attached with a ribbon. Julian returns with her trunk hovering behind him. They walk to the lift and the lift man opens the grilles. They step in and go to the 3rd floor. They step out of the lift and walk down the corridor. Julian motions to a doorway with a female figure on it]
Julian: And that's the ladies' bathroom for this half of the floor. The stairs are further along and are generally quicker to use. And this [They stop outside a set of wooden double doors with her room number engraved on it] is your boudoir. Open her up... [Marianne raises one eyebrow, Julian cocks his head and looks to the side] That didn't come out right. [Marianne looks at him as if to say 'You think?'] Just open the door Mari
[Marianne pops the key in the door and unlocks it, the reader can see from the other side the complex series of gears that hold the door shut but are easily opened by the key. Julian pushes the doors open and motions the trunk through to settle at the end of the bed, Marianne stares in gobsmacked. She grins and steps into the room.]
Marianne: [Spinning in place] This place is amazing! [Julian smirks] Are you not coming in? [Julian shakes his head]
Julian: I've got to go back and finish talking to Elvera. There was something important I was trying to talk to her about but she got off-track. Elves have to get their way or they say we 'humans' are being racist again. [Julian waves and walks off. Marianne sticks her head out of the door and shouts after him]
Marianne: What do you mean again?!
Julian: [walking backwards, from a distance] you'll find out in cultural studies. I'll see you later. [Waves. Marianne looks after him annoyed before going back in and shutting the door]
[Caption of Julian speaking {A Few Hours Later: Marianne tried to find the dining room but got well and truly lost. She ended up in the basement} Marianne is in what appears to be the boiler room. She is wandering down a corridor and reaches a door at the end. Pushing it open she steps into a room lit by a red light, filled with a boiler and finds Ted, a small man with a moustache dressed in overalls, he's fixing what looks like a rudder panel. He notices her and drops the wrench he's holding]
Ted: Sorry miss, is ya wanting more heat in ya room? Just give us a mo and old Teddy'll have you toasty warm in a jiffy. [He hurries over to the control panel for the boiler and begins flicking switches. There's something odd about the bottom on his overalls] Which room ya in?
Marianne: [stepping forward, looking embarrassed] I... I don't need more heat. I... Sort of... Got lost... [She puts her hands behind her back, sticks on leg out and runs it across the floor, she watches it.] Would you possibly, if it's no trouble, maybe be able to tell me the way... Or show me if you have the time?
Ted: [Ted blinks at her in surprise. Then blushes and wrings a rag with his hands. He walks to the door and pauses] Ted'll show you the way miss, don't you worry nuthin. Follow me miss.
[Marianne follows Ted through corridors as he chats about random things. She notices the back of his overalls are forced outwards and a small tail winds it's way out. She stops and stares in shock. They reach some stairs and Ted stops. He holds his hat in his hands]
Ted: Well this is the way up miss. I'll leave you know. Just follow the stairs and you'll be in the entrance hall. Take care dear. If you need anythin' fixin I'm ya man, just pop down n see me, ya know where I be. [He shuffles off into the corridor, fading into the darkness. Marianne just watches him go before she realises and calls her thanks after him.]
[Marianne climbs the stairs and appears blinking in the entrance hall. She sees Maximillian and walks quickly to the desk and looks at him smiling.]
Marianne: Hey Maximillian. Could you please tell me how to get to the dining room?
Maximillian: [Sneering down his nose at her] You should have read that in your welcome pack. It was on your bed.
Marianne: [Looking deeply apologetic and embarrassed] I did but I still got lost. I'm sorry [She hangs her head]
Maximillian: [His face softening as he takes pity on the new girl] Just go through the double doors between the lifts and turn left until you get to a set of double doors on your right. That's the dining room.
Marianne: [Heading to the doors indicated by Max] Thank you. Much appreciated [She walks along until she reaches the doors that Max mentioned. Pushing them open she is greeted to many people staring at her. Swallowing loudly she joins the end of the queue for food, remembering her Grandmother said that you had to do so. A small child, not more then 12 years old turns to her]
Child: Are you a first year too? You're really old to be a freshman. Do you feel sad that we'll all be younger then you? You should try and pretend to be in a higher year then you can get your food sooner.
Elvera: [From behind Marianne] I don't think that would be appropriate do you Freshman? [placing her hand on Marianne's shoulder she leans into whisper in her ear] You stay away from Julian, he's mine human. Do you hear? He's part elf so he belongs with the elves, not with a human like you. Stick with your own kind in future.
[Scene cuts to Marianne sitting at a table eating alone, picking at her food. There's a gentle throat clearing beside her, off panel. She looks up]
Marianne: Oh... [It's the Scipio from Valkensburg, holding a food tray] Didn't I point at you the other week? I'm really very sorry about that.
Scipio: May I ssssit here pleassse? [Indicates the chair beside Marianne]
Marianne: [Disinterested in an attempt to pretend she's not expecting another verbal attack] Sure, not like I can stop you. [The Scipio sits down and starts to eat] What not going to tell me to stick with my own kind too?
Scipio: [Looks up startled] I'm ssssorry? Why would I do that? I don't know anyone but recognisssed you. I thought I'd sssssee if you wanted some company, you looked lonely.
Marianne: [Slightly mollified] Oh... Right. Sorry. It's just.... I've already had one b***h of an elf tell me to stay away from a friend, thought you'd jumped on the band wagon and were gonna tell me to stay away from an entire race.
Scipio: [Cocking her head to one side] I understand. It'sss horrible to be told to ssstay away from sssomeone you know, essspecccially when they're the only friendly facccce in a new placcce. My mother warned me it would be different here.
Marianne: So did my grandmother. Even Julian did, my friend who I'm now not allowed near. I suppose it takes seeing it to believe it.
Scipio: Indeed. Have you noticcced though how everyone ssseemsss to-
Marianne: Be separated based on race? Yes, it was my first thought when I came out of the gateway house... Well after 'Oh my god! It's a bunch of floating islands' obviously
Scipio: [smiling] Obviousssly. I wasss told but it'sss cccertainly a ssstrange sssensssattttion. I know no one of my kind here though sssso I exspect to be very lonely.
Marianne: [Sadly] I know someone but he's in the year above me. As a Freshman I'm with a bunch of kids. Eeurgh [Hangs her head in her hands] I thought I'd left school and cliques behind me when I graduated university.
Scipio: [Hesitantly pats her on the back] I'm a Fressshhman too if it helpsss, and I'm cccertainly no child, I'm 78 next fall.
Marianne: [Looks at her in shock] 78? I'm only 21!
Scipio: [Smiling] I wasss told humansss measssured age differently. I am... 22 in your human'sss way of measssuring age. At leassst there isss sssomeone near to your own age in your classsesss.
Marianne: That's true [They both rise now, carrying their trays to hand them in. Marianne whispers to the Scipio, indicating the small child in front of them, it's the same one from earlier] What out for that kid, just doesn't know when to shut up. She will keep asking you questions until you gag her and even then I reckon she'd keep trying to talk.
[They walk out to the doors and as they walk through them they introduce themselves]
Marianne: [Holding out her hand] I'm Marianne Jacques-Fillion.
Scipio: [Looks startled for a moment before recovering] I am Cataleena Lucretia Lampropelitis the Third
[Last panel on their hands shaking in greeting. New caption {A Few Days Later Lessons Started} Marianne is sat dejectedly at the end of a row of seats in Cultural and General Studies. Cataleena goes to join the sit next to her and Marianne sits up straighter but is dragged away by other Scipians. Marianne slumps even further in her seat, looking very depressed. She looks around and notices all the different races sat in their racial groups. She looks to the side and the annoying child is there]
Child: Hi! Haven't these classes been sooo interesting. I love how much we're learning and it's only been two days! Aren't you having fun? I am, I'm having so much fun I can't wait to start making all new friends properly. Don't you feel sad though? Because there's no one here your age. You're all alone with no friends, that'd make me sad. [At some point in the speech Marianne blanks her face before dropping it onto her arms, making a sound of exasperation] I know there's some Elves and a couple of Felinus and some of those reptile people about your age but they seem to stick to their own race. Don't you like that about this school, there's all these different races to learn about right in front of us but we don't have to make friends with any of them. Sticking with our own kind means we have more in common, that's what my mum always says.
Marianne: [Looks at the girl in a mix of disgust and shock] Seriously? 'Stick with our own kind'! You lot live in la-la-land. [Girl opens her mouth to speak again but Marianne holds her hand up] And do you ever shut up? Like ever?
[The girl looks outraged but before she can reply the teacher, a wizened little goblin enters. He begins the lecture. As Marianne looks around she notices a boy with cat ears in the row opposite her, he looks amused and gives her a thumbs up, motioning his head towards the girl. Marianne smiles back. Cuts to another class, this time power control and they are all sat cross-legged in the learning dojo. A student is lying in front of the others as an Asian looking elf hovers her hand and a crystal over their body. This is the first person to be sorted. Once finished with that student the teacher consults a list]
Teacher: Marianne Jacques-Fillion
[Whispering breaks out among the students, they're leaning into one another as she walks to the front. Lying down the teacher leans over her]
Teacher: Now focus on the symbol above my head and clear your mind.
[The symbol is a complex Celtic knot and she stares upwards as the crystal swings back and forth. It stops and she sits up.]
Teacher: Congratulations, you're our first electro-kinetic in roughly 11 years. If you'll just go sit over there please.
[Marianne goes to sit against a wall alone. As she sorts through the rest of the humans she is still alone. The unsorted group get smaller and smaller until they are all sorted. The teacher stands and surveys the groups]
Teacher: Hmm. I believe Marianne, that you should join the pyrokinetic group, many of the principles in controlling the powers are fairly similar.
[Marianne stands and goes over to the group, she is the only human in it. The members watch her warily. Cataleena waves at her from the Healing group, she waves back and gets dirty looks from some of the nearby humans. There is an elf alone in one very small group who is slightly segregated from everyone. She looks very sad]
Teacher: Now, this is your last class of the day, I believe you've met all of your teachers and received your booklists? Good now let me explain what will be happening in these classes...
[Caption{After Classes} Marianne is sat in her room at her desk working. There's a knock on the door and after she says 'Come in' Julian enters, smiling hesitantly. He walks in and sits on the comfy seat near the burning fire. Marianne continues writing, ignoring him.]
Julian: So how have your first classes gone? [Marianne continues to ignore him] Word on the grapevine is that you're an electro-kinetic, first one in a decade, how's that feel? [Marianne continues to ignore him.] What's going on Mari, why are you ignoring me?
Marianne: [Turning around and staring at him] Why didn't you tell me you were part elf?
Julian: [Looking shocked] What... Where's this coming from Mar? [Shrugging] When was I supposed to tell you? Between explaining how our world works and you freaking out over the demons? You'd not exactly had the best welcome from an elf remember. I didn't want you linking me with him.
Marianne: [Looking slightly mollified] Alright, I'll give you that one. But you shouldn't be here talking to me. Elvera won't like it, I'm to stay with my own kind.
Julian: [Exasperated] Oh ignore that racist crap. She doesn't know what she's talking about. You're my friend no matter what and if she doesn't like it she can go jump out an airship.
Marianne: [Smiling in pleasure at his fierce defence of their friendship] Thank god! I think I'd go mad if I had to stay with my own kind and year. They're all children. I'm going to spend it alone[She gets up and curls in the seat opposite him] Have you met that one girl yet? She just seems to never shut up I swear.
Julian: [Throwing his head back and laughing] Seriously? I think I know which one you mean.
Marianne: [Looks both shocked and outraged]And she spouted out the same stuff as Elvera! She's only 12[Looking fairly angry] I'm getting sick of this 'stick with your own kind crap'. It's like something out of apartheid Africa or pre-integrated America. Everywhere I look people are sticking with their own species. Everywhere! Even in Cultural Studies where the idea is to learn about other cultures then your own. I hate being told who to be friends with, I'm gonna talk and sit with who I want, when I want, screw popular opinion on racial mixing.
Julian: [He blinks and looks slightly taken aback] I never thought about it that way. [Leaning his head back, looking down on her slightly] I will admit, hearing that phrase over and over does get me down. Being mixed species does sort of make it hard to know who to 'stay with' . Anyway, enough of this boring talk. How does it feel to be the first electro-kinetic in over a decade? Have you looked at what you could do yet?
Marianne: [Smirking] As a matter of fact, I got a book from the library about it.
Julian: [Leaning forwards, hands clasped in front of him balanced on his knees.] So go on then [Pause, Marianne looks at him blankly] Tell me what you might be able to do!
Marianne: [Smiling] Well....
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Posted: Wed Sep 08, 2010 11:44 am
Third Part
Chapter 2, Section 3: Friends and Enemies Newly-Made
[Marianne is sat in the dining room eating her breakfast. Caption says {Monday, 2 weeks After Term starts} Marianne is noticeably alone on the table. The annoying girl sits beside her and opens her mouth to start talking. A clawed hand appears on her shoulder which stops her. She looks up at the hand's owner and sees the cat-boy from the last section. He grins, flashing his canines and jerks his head towards another table. She looks scared, gets up and walks away. He takes her seat. Marianne appears not to have noticed any of this and just continues to eat her cereal, leaning on one hand]
Marianne: Can I help you? After all you did just scare away the annoying short one so it must have been for a reason...
Cat-Boy: [Ears back in shock then he looks slightly chagrined, rubbing a hand behind his head] I didn't think you'd noticed. I know you don't like her so I thought I'd get rid of her for you. Then I noticed you sat here all alone and thought that I'd join you.
Cataleena: [Has just appeared behind Marianne]That won't be neccccesssssary Amphetrionussss. I'm here now to keep Marianne company, ssso you can go back to playing with ssstring
[Felix stands up. He and Cataleena are the same height. His ears are back and his tail is slightly fluffy and the spines within Cataleena's hair are going upright, slight fins are also rising around her neck like a bearded lizard]
Felix: Why would she need a sssnake like you as a friend? Shouldn't you be lying on a rock somewhere?
Cataleena: Better then a four-legged creep like you. How dare you take the pissss out of how my people talk!
Felix: that's about all you slimy things are good for! I use two legs, two! [He holds up two fingers facing outwards] Read the fingers, they've got an extra message for ya.
Cataleena: [Looks outraged] How dare you use that sort of language around me! I'm a Princessss of the Scipian Empire! [Marianne rises an eyebrow at this but is otherwise uninterested] There are children present you idiotic feline!
Felix: I don't care Spineless!
Cataleena: Why don't you go cough up a furball?
Felix: I would but you might be hibernating so you'd miss it. [Marianne gets up and leaves]
Cataleena: At least I don't lick my own arse!
Felix: Such language from a princess! Wait?! That was one time! Why do you always- Wait... [Looks around for Marianne] Where'd the girl go?
[Both he and Cataleena look around the dining room despite being surrounded by people interested in their arguement. They push through the crowd and reach the doors. Julian is leaning against one of the posts, inspecting his nails]
Julian: If you're looking for Marianne she's gone to class, they started about 5 minutes ago. [He straightens and walks off, calling over his shoulder] By the way, you two seriously need to find a new outlet for all that sexual tension you're carrying around.
[Felix and Cataleena blink and look at each other before pulling expressions of shock and disgust. Then Felix looks at his watch and shouts crap before grabbing Cataleena's arm and running off. They reach class just before the teacher locks the door and collapse into seats either side of Marianne, panting. She continues to read]
Teacher: Thank you both so much for deciding to join us... [Checking her student list] Master Felix, Princess Cataleena. Next time don't cut it so close. [Turning to the rest of the class] Now, today we will be looking at....
[Caption {Break} Marianne is sat on the edge of one of the islands, leaning her chin on her crossed arms around one of the bars, it goes between her legs also. Felix and Cataleena come and sit beside her, one either side, they adopt a similar pose]
Felix: I knew you were putting that idiotic hissing on!
Cataleena: I wasss not, I hisss at the end of wordsss, besidesss it'sss expected! [She turns her nose up at him and away]
Felix: What ever [He dumps his chin on his arms and his ears are right back]
Marianne: Have you two quite finished with the verbal foreplay? Would you like me to leave you alone so you can go on to the actual sex? [They both draw their upper-bodies away from Marianne and she smirks] Good... Now what class have we got next?
Cataleena: I think we have a free period, it's a General Studiesss: Maths lesson and we already know all that stuff... Or at leassst we should..[Pointed look at Felix]
Felix: I missed one tutor session [Holds up his middle finger] One! Count the finger.
Marianne: [Shoving his paw/hand out of her face] That being as it may... Shall we go to the library maybe and get some work done? [Felix looks unimpressed, his ears facing sidewards and he makes a low growling sound] Or do you won't to just hang around outside for 40 minutes... In the wind... While it rains [Felix's ears go right back and he looks alarmed]
Felix: [He's jumped to his feet and is pulling the arms of the two girls] Come along ladies, we've got looks of work to do. We don't want to get behind do we? [The girls manage to get to their feet and he walks off dragging them] Chop chop... Only have 40 minutes to get lots of lovely research done.
[The trio are in the library. Steve is stood reading a book between some shelves, Felix is stood beside him reaching for a book while stood on a stool. His tail keeps flicking and hitting Steve around his person. Finally he grabs it and gives it a good yank. Felix yowls and jumps upright. He ends huddled on the top of the shelf unit, everything standing on end. Marianne and Cataleena hear the noise and come running, Steve is stood on a stool trying to reason Felix into coming down]
Steve: Come on Cat-boy! Ah just pulled your tail is all, not ma fault yer a big baby is it? Now come down before we both get kicked out yeah?
Marianne: [Appearing beside Steve. He senses her and his ears go downwards] Why is my friend at the top of the shelves?
Cataleena: We're never going to get him down from there before the end of second period. Sensei Makigaro is going to be so upset [Felix swipes a paw at her] Hey! Calm down and put the claws away.
Steve: [rubbing his head his ears are c**k-eyed] I sorta, maybe, might of pulled his tail. [Marianne and Cat both glare at him and he switches to outrage] What?! He kept smacking me in the face with it. I had enough. [Felix growls] Oh shut it yer puff-ball. Get down 'ere an I'll apologise... I got cheese. [Felix jumps down and paws at Steve]
Felix: Gimme gimme gimme [He purrs as Steve gives him the cheese. He sits on the floor eating it as Steve rubs behind his ears]
Steve: Sorry Cat-boy. Ah dint know ya was so jumpy
Cataleena: [Looking at Steve in amazement] Who are you and how did you do that to our friend?
Steve: [Holds out a hand to shake. Marianne does so tentatively] Steve Grueber at ya service. I'm a goblin, we 'ave a natural connection with creatures of the feline variety. [Cat shakes his hand happily] Don't sup'ose one of ya lovely ladies could do a man a favour and put this book back for meh. Stupid shelves are too 'igh an ah cannae reach. [Cat takes the book and puts it on the shelf Steve indicates] Ta luv. [Felix reaches up and hugs Steve around the shoulders, rubbing his head against him, purring] Err...
Felix: I like the goblin. He has nommy treats [Looks at the girls with big teary kitty eyes] Can we keep it?
[The girls are slightly taken aback by the eyes and Steve tries to wiggle out of Felix's arms]
Marianne: [Trying to be sensible and grown up] Felix.... Let the goblin go. [Felix hugs Steve closer] Drop it... I mean him. [Steve is held even closer. He begins to go blue. Marianne is alarmed] Felix! Let him go! He's turning blue. [She tries to unwind his arms but Felix swipes at her so she backs off. Cat disappears down the aisle] Cataleena where are you going?! Don't leave me here! Oh god, what am I going to do... [She holds her hands to her head in panic] Grandmother will kill me if I let Felix kill the goblin. I can't get expelled in my first month. Oh god [Cataleena reappears holding a squirt bottle. She sprays Felix with it. He lets Steve go and swipes at Cat with his ears back and hissing. Marianne looks at her amazed] You carry that in your bag? Why?!
Cataleena: Felinus hate water. [She shrugs as if it's an everyday occurrence] Sometimes they get too close and this makes them go away. [Checks Felix's watch while he rubs his head against her] We need to get to class.... Coming Steve?
Steve: Lead the way ya Maj. [Gestures ahead of him with an arm.]
[They eventually leave the Library and Felix shakes his head to clear it. He looks at Steve intently as they walk to the power harnessing island. Steve looks at him a couple of times]
Steve: Wot?
Felix: [Moves to kneel in front of Steve] I'm sorry I nearly strangled you Mr. Goblin. I don't deal well when frightened... I go all cattish.
Steve: [Slightly uncomfortable] No problem kid... [pats him on the shoulder] I'll remember not to pull ya tail next time.
Felix: [View from behind, they're walking towards an eastern looking building. Felix is walking next to Steve and the girls are either side of them. Felix looks down at Steve.] Hey Steve?
Steve: Yeah kid?
Felix: ... Can I carry you?
Steve: ... I hate you.
[Caption {Friday}The group are in the library again, quietly reading when Felix hears a quiet sobbing sound. One of his ears perks up and he gets up. He motions to his friends to stay where you are. He follows the sounds of crying to a young girl being pinched fiercely on the arm by Elvera. He begins to growl, his fur fluffs up and his ears go back. He steps forwards and Elvera turns around, noticing him. Her eyes widen slightly in shock before she recovers herself]
Elvera: What are you looking for Fur-ball?
Felix: Some one to fight.
Elvera: Get lost Freshman. This doesn't concern you, just walk away.
Felix: It concerns me when an innocent girl's being picked on.
Elvera: Get out of here before I tell my mother and get you expelled
Felix: Tell your mother all you like, I won't get expelled which is more then a can say for you... Elvera [Elvera takes a step back her eyes wide in shock] That's right I know who you are. You might be a mover and shaker here in the Academy with your rich mommy on the School Board but back in the real world on Alpascias Fourth I outrank you and can quite easily make your life very miserable... Now [He steps forwards fully] I suggest you run back to your room and stay there for the rest of the weekend. If I see one hair of you I'm going straight to the headmistress and telling her what I have seen. Are we clear? [Elvera nods in fear, Felix smiles, his canines flashing] Good... Now go. [Elvera runs off, her hair streaming behind her. Felix walks over to the small girl and lays a hand gently on her shoulder. Before he can say anything clapping sounds. Steve emerges from the shadows before he leans against a shelf and looks contemplatively at Felix and the girl]
Steve: Ah was wondering when ya'd use ya power [Felix draws his head back, ears falling backwards] No not your Witchan power boy. Ah mean the one ya stand to inherit in abat oh 3 years. [He raises an eyebrow] Ah was right in ma theory bout who you are boy. Yah ganna be great kid... Now lets get the little lass out of these shelves and into some pleasant company. [Slight pause. Steve looks at Felix expectantly, he just looks back confused] Well I cannae carry 'er can I?! [Felix gets it and lifts the girl into his arms. They walk to the table the girls are sat at. Julian is there too. They look up in surprise at the girl in Felix's arms.] 'is mate Elvera [He nods towards Julian] 'as been up to her owd tricks agen. We found this one receivin' a nasty set of pinches and 'oo know's wot else 'for we got there. [Julian looks slightly disgusted by Elvera's revealed behaviour] Nice mates you got fella.
Marianne: [looking pointedly at Julian] Still want me to ignore her? I think we need to do something about her and soon, before she upsets anyone else.
Felix: [Trying to unattach the girl half-heartedly. He looks very stern and solemn, unlike his usual self] She won't be causing any more trouble for the rest of the week, not if she knows what's good for her. Now little one... What did you do to attract the attention of our resident racist bully? [The girl looks up and they all realise she's an elf] Why's she picking on you? You're an elf just like she is.
Elf: My family are outcasts. They're the one's that fled during the Purges and now I've got the gift that no Elf should have. Just one of those is reason enough for Her to pick on me and I have both.
Marianne: Sorry for being an idiot but I wasn't brought up with any of the knowledge you lot all seem to have... But Purges? Why is the fact that your family ran away from certain death a bad thing?
Julian: About 25 years ago the sorcerer Manias led a force to whip out the elves. They fought back but some families refused, choosing instead to run because they thought the elves would definitely lose. But the elves won and now they're seen as cowards.
Marianne: [Looking down] Oh... [Looks up as another thought hits her] And the gift no Elf should have?
Julian: I think it's the gift of premonition. Because Elves live so long it's believed that the gift of premonition is a way of cheating because the things they see will happen do happen in their lifetime so they can change it to what they want.
Elf: Indeed. I bring shame upon my family and my people. The lady Elvera was right... I am no better then the dirt on her shoe. You should not have stepped in to defend me good Sir[The others look slightly sickened by her self-hate]
Steve: Now forgive me if Ah'm wrong here Pointy but ah was alive during the Purges, only 4 mind but alive and able to remember and it did seem like the elves would die. Me mam n da' gave shelter ta some o' the elves that fled, thinkin' t'was better ta save a few then let the 'hole race die. Ya woulda been but a babe I'm bettin' but ah think ya parents wanted to save you more then themselves. And 'the lady Elvera' is the daughter of a merchant who made 'is money sellin' cabbages. She's bout as much a lady as me so ignore the snooty cow luv.
[The girl bursts into tears and holds on to Felix's jacket. He looks quite alarmed and looks around frantically. Julian senses his fear and kneels beside the girl]
Julian: What's your name girl? [The girl leans forwards and whispers in his ear] Lenora? That's a pretty name. Why are you crying again Lenora?
Lenora: No one's been so nice to me before. None of you know me but you still want to help me. It's so lovee-ovee-ovve-llyyyyyy [She breaks into new tears. Marianne steps forwards and slaps her around the face. She stops crying and blinks] Thank you.
Marianne: [The others turn to stare at her] What?! She was hysterical. [they continue to stare. She crosses her arms and pouts muttering softly] It works in the movies.
Lenora: No she was right to strike me. I was out of control. [She stands and walks to Marianne. As Marianne stares down at her she hugs her. Marianne just stands there blinking] Thank you Marianne Jacques-Fillion. [Marianne pats her on the head] You're a wonderful person.
[Caption {That night} Marianne is sat in bed reading the Jacques spellbook. Some one knocks and enters when she calls out. It's Lenora. She comes and curls on the end of Marianne's bed. Marianne closes her book and looks at her]
Marianne: What's wrong Lenora?
Lenora: [Lying there blankly she looks at Marianne] The cow-man next door is making too much noise arguing with his goat-man friend. I need quiet. I had a vision of next week's test and it's given me a headache.
Marianne: [getting out of bed] You want me to go ask them to keep it down for you? [Lenora nods] Ok. I'll be back in a little while. [She pulls on a dressing gown and leaves the room. She pokes her head back around a moment after.] You can see the test? What's it on? [Lenora glares at her] Right, right, now using the gift of premonition for unlawful gain blah blah blah.[She waves a hand around] I'm going I'm going. [She's walking down a corridor shivering and muttering about elves when a door hits the wall, followed by a faun. A minotaur appears holding a large hammer.]
Minotaur: Don't you say that about my mamma, she's a saint! You're the only lewd, good-for-nothing whore around here!
Marianne: [Rushing to help the faun get up] What the hell is going on here? I came to ask you to keep the noise down and you're destroying school property.
Faun: Get your hands off me human. I can take care of myself [Shakes hair back and it's revealed the faun is female] Damn it Photon, I was only telling you what I heard that snooty elf say about her! I love your mamma to bits. Think before you swing that hammer around, especially with your power!
Photon: Sorry Ilikius [He hangs his head down and skims one hoof on the floor, looking very guilty] I forget I got a power now
Ilikius: [Rubbing her shoulder and looking at Marianne she mutters] I certainly won't. [To Photon] You're lucky I'm sturdy. Now you better reattach that door. [Properly notices Marianne] What are you looking at Human?!
Marianne: [Her head to one side] There are female fauns? I've only ever seen or heard of male ones.
Ilikius: [Staring at Marianne in increduality] Of course there are female fauns! What you thought male fauns just popped out of the ground?! The females are just *mumble mumble mumble*
Photon: [Having reattached the door] I don't think the human heard you then Ilikius... I didn't even hear you and my hearing is better
Ilikius: [Shouting] I said the females are just kept inside the home. [Realises everyone is looking out of their rooms at her. They're all whispering the same thing regarding female fauns. She speaks in her normal voice] Why do you think I'm here?! I'm getting away from that antiquated patriarchal society. Now what do you want Human? [Crosses her arms over her chest. The others disappear into their room.]
Marianne: [Copying Ilikius' pose] My name is Marianne. I'm here to ask you and your friend there to keep the noise down. My friend Lenora's having difficulty sleeping and it's been a rough day for her.
Lenora: It's ok Mari they'll be quiet from now [Walks slowly down the corridor slightly spaced] I only wanted you to meet them. I knew you'd be able to end the arguement. Good night Marianne. Photon. Ilikius. [She wanders off to her room, stepping into it quietly. The others stare after her before looking at each other]
Photon: That one... Is strange.
Marianne: [raises an eyebrow and one of her lips] Ya think?! [Photon walks off to his room]
Ilikius: Guess that's one of the reasons why elves rarely have the power of premonition. It's sends them completely cuckoo [Twirls her finger around her head]
Marianne: Clearly. [Looks down at Ilikius] So what's the Grecian world like? All my friends are from Alpascias Fourth.
Ilikius: Seriously?! It's like 11 pm, I'm knackered and I want to sleep. If you really want to know I can tell you tomorrow.
Marianne: [Smiling] Cool. I'll see you tomorrow [begins to walk off] 11 am in the Library ok with you? In the Academic History section? Ok, see ya then [She walks off into the dark corridor.]
Ilikius: The elf isn't the only strange one around here. [Walking off panel] Photon don't you dare take up all the bed. [Now walking beside Photon] We've got a lunch date with that Human tomorrow. She wants to know about the Grecian plane.
Photon: [Looking down at Ilikius] I thought it was just you she wanted to talk to.
Ilikius: [Holding up one hand] Yes well, she's friends with a bunch of Alpascians, there's no way I'm going there alone.
Photon: And what makes you think that I'll agree to come with you?
Ilikius: If you love me you will.
[Photon is left looking slightly annoyed]
[The others are all sat around a table in the library, quietly working. Lenora is spinning slowly in circles in the light of a window while Steve quietly watches over the top of his book. Photon and Ilikius appear and stand in front of Marianne. She continues to write, not looking up as she talks to them both]
Marianne: You're late. I said 11, it's 2 pm.
Photon: [Rubbing the back of his head with his hand] We sort of over slept.
Felix: [He's been staring at Ilikius since they appeared, she appears slightly more male in the clothes she's wearing, almost androgynous as her hair is pulled back under a hat. He points at her] You're a girl
Ilikius: [Outraged] I am not! You take that back [Steve looks at her contemplatively] Stop looking at me like that Goblin!
Felix: [Getting excited now, standing and pointing] You are! You're a girl. [He pauses and looks confused, one hand raised to his mouth]They have girly goat-people?
Marianne: [Puts her head in her hands] I can't believe I'm friends with you Felix.
Felix: What why?
Marianne: You have like zero tact.
Felix: I may have zero tact but I'm very cuddly [Wraps himself around Marianne]
Elvera: Well, well, well. Isn't this cute.[Steps out of the shadows and closer, flanked by two other elves] A nice meeting of the school misfits. [She looks at each of them in turn] An outcast elf freak, an elderly goblin who can't get friends his own age, a cow and a goat male couple, an idiot human from a line of Witchan stretching back in the middle ages but knows nothing, the queen of snakes and a fur-ball princeling who mixes with commoners. I can't say that I'm surprised about you all gathering together; 'Birds of a feather' and all that. [Marianne opens her mouth to speak but Elvera puts her hand on her shoulder and leans in close.]You're wasted in this school, all of you. You belong back at your homes, with the rest of the useless trash we live amongst. [She stands back up] I'll be watching you, all of you. The slightest mistake, one slip-up and you'll be out. [She flicks her eyes to Felix and narrows them. He glares back] All of you [She walks off, the other two elves trailing behind her.]
Ilikius: That... [She is fuming] That!!!! Argh. I am a girl! Can't she see that?!
Felix: At least she got you to admit to your girliness.... [Ilikius smacks him around the head with her book]
Ilikius: That's not the point
Cataleena: How can someone that pretty have that much hate in them? I just don't understand it.
Steve: Some people are just born that way, no matter how much people try to teach them they'll just stay full of hate and bitterness until they finally push everyone away and wind up alone.
Marianne: That's no way for anyone to live...
Lenora: She was just posturing though right? [She looks very worried, at the point of tears] She can't really get us kicked out of school can she?
Steve: I highly doubt it Pointy, don't worry about that. [He's patting her on the back gently and Cataleena has hugged her closer]
Felix: [He stands and looks after where Elvera left, his arms crossed over his chest]Either way... I think that for now we should tread carefully around her
Marianne: [Marianne stands beside him and adopts the same pose] Just to be sure.
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Posted: Wed Sep 08, 2010 11:45 am
Fourth and final part
Chapter 2, Section 4: Interruptions
Listener: Wait just a minute [Holds up his hand to pause Julian in his tale]
Julian: What now? [Looks exasperated, annoyed at his interruption]
Listener: How is this relevant to anything? She made new friends that didn't fit in, like her. Big deal.
Julian:[He stares at him in questioning disbelief] Am I seriously going to have to explain everything to you? [He holds out his hand towards the Listener] It shows how unusual she was and her behaviour and attitude to the different species showed how unfair the Witchan society really is. Before her.... [He looks down and to the side, slightly disgusted] Well lets just say that I'd never really questioned the inequality of our world. Now she was beginning to make us all question it; the oppressed and the oppressors alike. We'd all been brought up thinking things were a certain way and that it was ok to think that way
Listener: That's the only explanation you're going to give me isn't it. [He looks annoyed then crosses his arms and pouts]
Julian: Well I'm getting fed up of repeating myself. [He looks like he's reasoning with a child. Then he leans back with his hands behind his head] She showed us the segregation and that it was basically ingrained in us all, I already told you this. She walked in and saw how everyone separated themselves based on races. Like stayed with Like. No one mixed with other races unless they had to and then if they had to...[He shakes his head in disbelief] It was in groups based on power, never for any other reason. [He laughs] I can't believe no one noticed it before then... Oh wait I can, The Council [He looks pointedly at the Listener] would hush up anyone with 'original thoughts' like that, make them disappear, discredit them so no one would listen.[He sneers] I should know... [His face is straightened again] But they couldn't with her by the time they noticed, she was too high-profile, she had a family, friends and so would be missed.
Listener: Ok, I get what you're saying now.[Looks upwards in acceptance] She was the first pebble that was able to hit the pond and make ripples. So it's a big deal ... Her having friends of different races.
Julian: More then you know. It showed she was the one from the prophecy...
Listener: [Smiling smugly] Ah yes, that line 'Surrounded by the union of the races' So the Council figured her multi-racial friendship group was an indicator of that. [Cocks his head inquisitively to one side] hmm. Fancy that.
Julian: Now... May I continue [The Listener nods rapidly] And no more interruptions from you?
Listener: I promise [Holds his hands out peacefully] Please continue.
Julian: Ok, where was I? Oh that's right. Her friends and the threat against her... Well after that she began to finally settle in and begin to properly learn
Feedback is much appreciated. Constructive criticism too.
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Posted: Wed Sep 08, 2010 8:41 pm
So far, I have read up to the start of the third part. its really good, although, the only thing was that it was hard to read through the long blocks of text. I might analyse it harder later, but for now, I really like it 3nodding
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Posted: Thu Sep 09, 2010 9:58 am
AuroraCelestine So far, I have read up to the start of the third part. its really good, although, the only thing was that it was hard to read through the long blocks of text. I might analyse it harder later, but for now, I really like it 3nodding Thanks. Is there anything that strikes you as slightly off or that could make it even better? I'm not too worried about the big blocks of text as it will be drawn and broken up but thanks for pointing that out to me
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Posted: Fri Sep 10, 2010 3:02 pm
WitchanGurl AuroraCelestine So far, I have read up to the start of the third part. its really good, although, the only thing was that it was hard to read through the long blocks of text. I might analyse it harder later, but for now, I really like it 3nodding Thanks. Is there anything that strikes you as slightly off or that could make it even better? I'm not too worried about the big blocks of text as it will be drawn and broken up but thanks for pointing that out to me
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Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2010 6:46 pm
AuroraCelestine WitchanGurl AuroraCelestine So far, I have read up to the start of the third part. its really good, although, the only thing was that it was hard to read through the long blocks of text. I might analyse it harder later, but for now, I really like it 3nodding Thanks. Is there anything that strikes you as slightly off or that could make it even better? I'm not too worried about the big blocks of text as it will be drawn and broken up but thanks for pointing that out to me Yeah, I think most of the issue is that this is like the first draft and I was mostly just trying to get all my thoughts across rather then going for naturality. I'll definately work on making it more natural in my second go through though. Thanks so much.
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Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2010 7:19 pm
WitchanGurl AuroraCelestine WitchanGurl AuroraCelestine So far, I have read up to the start of the third part. its really good, although, the only thing was that it was hard to read through the long blocks of text. I might analyse it harder later, but for now, I really like it 3nodding Thanks. Is there anything that strikes you as slightly off or that could make it even better? I'm not too worried about the big blocks of text as it will be drawn and broken up but thanks for pointing that out to me Yeah, I think most of the issue is that this is like the first draft and I was mostly just trying to get all my thoughts across rather then going for naturality. I'll definately work on making it more natural in my second go through though. Thanks so much.
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