Hexwizard Task 1: Mahoutokoro v Ilvermorny

Banner by Hanako Tone

Roleplaying as Ginyami Midorimori from Mahoutokoro
"English | Japanese"

Ginyami had not expected to have anything to do with the Hexwizard Tournament, but there he was, switched in at the last minute due to some unforeseen circumstance. He was somewhat anxious about the fact that he'd had less time to prepare than other school team members, but he was confident in his abilities such as his ability to adapt. Furthermore, he was confident in the abilities of his schoolmates regardless of the fact that their school's champion was the youngest of them all.

He followed after Chikao Narumi as their players made their way to the third and final chessboard in the massive, crowded ballroom. Each of their names were announced as they entered, drawing cheers from the crowd. Ginyami waved and smiled as he usually did. This would be an intriguing event to be sure.

Scrutinizing each member of the opposing team as they entered the room next, Ginyami tried to glean what he could from their body language and expressions. Ilvermorny had two countries cheering them on whereas Mahoutokoro had only one, but the Japanese boy wasn't worried. He already knew who was superior in every respect. Now they simply had to prove it.

Ginyami was under no illusions that the first task was going to be an ordinary chess game. Surveying the board, he went over to sit at the Mahoutokoro bench. Once he was settled, he took the chance to glance around in order to assess how his teammates were doing. Christopher sat nearby, stoic and emotional as a rock. Sara was muttering cat names to himself. Aryaan was smiling at Christopher and attempting to strike up a pep talk with him, it seemed. After dealing with a drowsy Chikao, Akira had come over to talk to his senpais, asking if they were readying themselves for battle and mentioning that he thought the winds would be in their favor today.

"I doubt this task will have anything to do with 'favor' when all is said and done, Shimizu-san," Ginyami answered, smiling serenely. "I'm certain our team's talent and skill will be what carries us to victory."

He continued to glance over the rest of their team. Chiaki was clutching a plushie that appeared to be in the shape of a cat while greeting them with a 'good afternoon'. Ginyami nodded to her in acknowledgement while keeping up his usual smile. Hadashi, meanwhile, had closed his eyes and seemed to be concentrating on his breathing before speaking to Akira about Chikao.

Ginyami couldn't blame him or his obvious feelings on the matter. Chikao's behavior was a disgrace; not that Ginyami was going to say so aloud. He simply smiled tighter, lips taut as bow strings, as he met Chikao's devious grin. Then Chikao declared he would go all out. Ginyami really had to wonder about that. But his attention soon turned to Hiro who was also gleefully grinning as he looked at each of their members and answered Chikao. It seemed as though everyone was in pretty high spirits.

Mentioning: Christopher Runnels (@Bubba McGarry), Aryaan Shamsi (@Hui Ming), Akira Shimizu (@Avery Chen), Chiaki Hiroi (@Pax Zhang), Hadashi Hitoshi (@Dan Palmer), Chikao Narumi (@Hunter Argentum), and Hiro Bakugo (@Kim Sato)

Action: Observing everyone while taking his seat on the bench and answering Akira

Stats: Sta 11 | Eva 11 | Str 5 | Wis 6 | Arc 6 | Acc 11

Abilities:
- Charmer
- Fearless
- Foulplay
- Evasive Manuvers

It was finally upon them. The opening day of the Hexwizard Tournament had finally arrived and Stephen was both thrilled and a little anxious. Even though he would not be competing, he still felt a great deal of honor in being asked to be a part of the team should his assistance be needed later down the road. He was no stranger to competitions, but because of the international nature of this one, and because it dealt with magic which he was still trying to wrap his head around sometimes, he had to admit he felt more nervous than he usually did. It simply felt like so much was riding on the outcome of these games, though what exactly it was had never been made quite clear to him. He suspected, without having to be told, that their peacock of a Headmaster had rather made Miles' life a living hell since April of this year. All speculation on his part, but Headmaster Plott seemed to be extremely invested in the outcome, and when it came out in Ilvermorny's favor, and he knew it would, he fully anticipated that Plott would take the credit for it somehow as well.

He walked in towards the back of the Ilvermorny entourage with the rest of the bench warmers. They may not get to play, but they would have the best views in the house and they would most certainly be in the splash zone. Let's just hope the splashing is more Mahoutokoro blood than Ilvermorny's, and that Miles leaves the board on his own steam.

Stephen took a seat near Nick and smiled to the rest of the team, and nodded to Olive, Miles "special person". He didn't know her, but she seemed nice. He took a deep breath and turned his attention to the board. It was scary impressive. Good luck, Ilvermony, he thought silently. You all have this.

[quote]

Action: Entering the Tournament and taking a seat

Stats: Sta 8 || Eva 7 || Str 8 || Wis 8 || Arc 5 || Acc 4

Abilities: Perfectionist || Evasive Maneuvers

The Trunk :

Mentions: @Sienna Lenoir as Olive Adair @Quinn Root as Nick

English | Japanese

Christopher was a bit concerned if he was honest. Everyone on the Mahoukotoro team seemed very confident as they arrived. And, as Christopher always tried to be honest with himself (even though he was truly honest to almost no one else), he thought they would be outmatched. The Ilvermorney students looked up for it and, quite frankly, they looked as though his team was physically outmatched by at least a couple of them. Still, the true test had yet to begin. That being said, as Shimizu walked in literally carrying (fine, levitating) Narumi, he was not filled with confidence.

Still, it was time to begin and he wanted the team filled with confidence, even if he was not. He stood off the bench and turned to face his teammates. "As long as we keep our heads about us and do what we practiced, we will prevail." It wasn't much of a pep talk but he figured someone should give one, even if he felt a bit foolish being the one to do so as he was only just bumped to the main roster.

His father's favorite saying was "if you don't buy a ticket you'll never win the lottery." It was a foolish sentiment in Bubba's opinion, but he'd bought his ticket, he was here, and now it was time to begin.

Action: Preparing for the Games to Begin

Interacting: @ N/A Mentioning: @ N/A

Aryaan Shamsi (@Hui Ming), the youngest Champion to ever take part in an international tournament. He was a source of confusion and jealousy for many, being as young's as he was some felt that there were others that were better suited. There were some that questioned how he was assigned the title in the first place. There were still others that found the boy to be a natural leader in spite of his age. He had gathered a team of not-so-like-minded individuals together and made them into a singular unit. That alone took a skill that many twice his age lacked.

Shamsi's special person was Bakugo Hiro (@Kim Sato) and he was right behind him. Hiro was excited and was enjoying the sights, the streamers, specifically the black ones, and the lights and the energy that the event had to offer. Hiro would see a number of familiar faces as they scanned the crowd, primarily classmates and Professors, but there were famous faces also amongst the others taking part in the revelry. Members of the Japanese government as well as governments abroad that h had only heard of, seen their manicured photographs in the papers. And yes, every one of them knew his name. The media was curious about Hiro, about his relationship to Shamsi and of course why or how the youngster became Champion - it was a burning question everyone wanted to know but neither Hiro or even Shamsi would have a coherent picture. They would also ask the boy about his good looks, he looked like a young Kpop sensation more than a boy. even if Hiro was inclined to try to answer at least the most flattering comments, there would be Christopher behind him to push him forward and if not Christopher more inclined students likely such as Hitoshi.

Shamsi would call past Hiro to Christopher who was closely trailing behind the duo.“What do you think, then? Shall we go out and crush ‘em all?” The comment would make Hiro quietly smile. Christopher Runnels (Bubba McGarry), the least Asian looking guy less for former 'Champion' to grace the Mahoutokoro Team. Only he had the steel bits to stay on the team and take part in the first task. Mahoutokoro had never participated in the Triwizard Tournaments of the past but they had heard the rumors. Rumors of not only glory but also death and how death was the reason the Triwizard was taken away more than once. Would the advent of the Hexwizard, a recklessly larger event be the downfall of them all?

Christopher would notice the simultaneous nature of the chessboards, how that betrays a core tenant of the game - logic and strategy. Yet he failed to consider that chess was also reflective of war and war was rarely quiet, serene and orderly. There would be no exception here on this day. The boy would make his way over to the bench.

Kohana Sara (@Hanako Tone) would enter the ballroom appearing prepared and strong in the face of potential death or dismemberment. His cheer and bravery betrayed his true sentiments, but it would not matter as he parted company from Christopher who walked before him and stood at the edge of the chessboard.

It would be then that Christopher was beckoned to the edge of the platform and away from the bench. He was not sitting out this game. Did he now know this? The boy that stood out like a sore thumb. He would be motioned towards the queen's bishop square.

Akira Shimizu (@Avery Chen) was already agitated by Narumi's indifference even before he stepped foot into the ballroom. Typical antics by the school delinquent doing the jig on the tightly winded up youth. Everything about the boy was regimented and orderly. He had a stick so far up his backside he sometimes spit splinters. But in spite of this aspect of his 'dignified character, Akira had some sentiment for the teen in spite of their incompatible natures. And unlike most dignified youths who would leave the sleeping lump be, he carried (well floated) the teen into the ballroom. Leviosa was not the sort of spell that tethered the by to his magic and allowed him to drag the fellow Mahoutokoro student into the ballroom, no he had to push or pull the boy along. An image of pushing or dragging the youth earned the amusement of likely more than just Hiro.

So, in a moment where Akira likely wanted nothing more than to have a dignified first impression on the world platform, he was pushing along a sleeping, potentially drooling blob of student in (likely wrinkled) lavender robes. There were questions and yes, the media totally got pictures of the less than flattering incident. A few were able to utter a question, such as 'why' or 'what is wrong with him?' Not that the boy had the time to answer as he made his way to the checkered board.

Hiroi Chiaki (@Pax Zhang) would witness the strange dynamic between Narumi and Akira, being fored to match behind the strange duo. This was stressful, overwhelming even. Clutching her cat plushie, she would meekly follow the rest of her team into the ballroom. She knew where to go because there was someone leading them. But still, all the noise and the flashing lights. The questions and the applause, it was a lot to take in, even if it was all overwhelmingly positive.

「皆さん、こんにちは。皆さんが元気で、勝つ準備ができていることを願っています!」"Good afternoon, all. I hope you are all feeling ok, and are ready to win!"

Hitoshi Hadashi (@Dan Palmer) was the oldest among the Mahoutokoro students that would participate in the Hexwizard Tournament. he had split sentiments regarding this event. He felt he would do his school and his country proud as a representative, being worthy of high academic marks, the praise of his instructors and masterful in his art. In fact, there was a part of him that wondered why he was not given the role of Champion. However, there was a part of him that dreaded the tournament as well, there were members of the team that did not seem quite so worthy, such as the slumbering Chikao Narumi who had to be carried into the ballroom by Akira. Distance and the buffer of a student, Chiaki was all that separated the antics of the duo. Yes, duo because if Narumi was left behind, left to sleep away his chances of glory and fame, then a second string would have been able to step in.

It was unfortunate that Akira was associated with Narumi, but his wrath was diverted by thoughts of foul play. That Shamsi was given the role that he rightfully deserved. And he would be right. Shamsi was not the champion that the goblet would have chosen, nor was that foreigner Pride worthy of the association. No, it was a result of powerful political men and women influencing a game among teens to push political ends. The truth of the matter was, Mahoutokoro was never intended to win. Not even place. not that even Pride was aware of this. Passing the role to Shamsi had profoundly improved their chances at victory, but they would have to work for it.

A psychological break was likely impending for Hitoshi as the petty annoyances compiled as he made his way into the ballroom. He was being congratulated, cheered for and asked questions. Why Shamsi, how is he as a leader? It was always about Shamsi-Shamsi-Shamsi! The T-shirts with a pixelated, grainy image of Shamsi's big head smiling broadly were donned by many members of the audience.

When they got to the edge of the board, holding together what vestiges of sanity remained Hitoshi would ask: "Shimizu-kun. Please wake up Narumi-kun. I don't care how you do it. I don't... entirely trust myself to be gentle at the moment."

The ever-compliant Akira would release Narumi from his impromptu flight. "Time to get to work, Narumi," Akira would announce to the newly roused youth who was on the floor before the board. Akira would perform the pleasantries of basic societal relations, nodding to his upper classmen and showing them the 'due respect they deserved.' The boy always did play by the rules. Of course he did, rules existed for a reason. "Readying yourselves for battle, senpais? ...I think the winds will be in our favor today."

Chikao would be roused by his less than gentle landing. The abrupt cession of his fall to the floor was jarring and he was jolted awake. How he slept through the noise makers, cheers and paparazzi was beyond even this narrator. He would let out a wide yawn on the floor. 「ねえ、私は翼が空を飛んでいるという、とても奇妙な夢を見ました。それまではとても楽しかったです-」 Man, I had the weirdest dream, about how I had wings flying through the air. I was having so much fun till-" Was the rest of that supposed to be until Akira and Hitoshi showed up? Well, maybe. He had temporarily forgot where he was -- the Hexwizard Tournament, in queue for the first task outside the ballroom. or maybe he never realized he was even on the team and decided that hallway was the prefect place to nap. Why was there screaming? Why were his friends, and Hadashi (how sweet, he and Akira are friends), here? Why is there a chessboard? Who are those other students? Wait, are those his various teachers in the crowd? Wait, was that a representative of the Japanese Ministry of magic he just saw?

[mediumpurple]"Arweirrr rasaiuir ruucr, whasa'r dha llil ail dhed?"[/color] Always serious looks, where's the fun in that? The teen would make his way to the edge of the board and do some stretches and yes, a flurry of flashes would accompany the boy's dramatic start.

Hitoshi would continue to calm himself, although the flush of his face caused by the rising blood pressure just short of causing an aneurysm was likely photographed for dozens if not hundreds of papers much to his future chagrin. He would address the Mahoutkoro team just before they stepped onto the checkered board: "Has everyone prepared themselves? We will bring glory to Mahoutokoro. Lets start by winning this task, hm?" Admittedly not the most eloquent of speeches but it was something.

With a crack of his knuckles, Chikao would announce 「よし、人生で一度は全力で行く」 "Fine, I'll go all out for once in my life." and step onto the board.

From the bench Hiro would reply to Chikao's anime protagonist moment: 「見るのが待ちきれません。彼らは何が彼らを襲うかわかりません。」"Can't wait to see. They won't know what hits them."

The final Mahoutokoro student to make his way into the ballroom and to the benches was Ginyami Midoriyama (@Jack Burnett). He was a second string, maybe even third or fourth, he was not really intended to be a part of this tournament in an active capacity. Yet here he was walking in the procession with the rest of them just to enjoy the best seat in the house to either watch his friends get their asses kicked or watch their first step towards victory. Why he expected to be overlooked and benched was a mystery, he was older than a number of the other representatives from his school which was collectively one of the youngest. He had experience and power, two things that Mahoutokoro could count on to give their team an advantage in the coming trials.

Once Chikao's dramatics were over, Ginyami would give a serene answer that contrasted with the bluster and energy of his contemporaries. "I doubt this task will have anything to do with 'favor' when all is said and done, Shimizu-san... I'm certain our team's talent and skill will be what carries us to victory."

The seat that had housed Christopher briefly was still warm. It could happen just like that Ginyami, one minute you are safe on the bench and them BAM you're dressed up as a priest and it was not even the set-up for a joke.

Bubba readied himself and gave a few words of encouragement of his own. They needed it, Ilvermorny looked tough and while he would not outright say it, he knew that luck and ower alone were not what was needed to win, but hard work also and that was something they had in abundance. 「私たちが自分たちのことを頭に入れ、練習したことを実行する限り、私たちは勝つことができます。」 "As long as we keep our heads about us and do what we practiced, we will prevail."

Ginyami's bench warming days would prove to be brief. He would be beckoned from his seat almost as soon as he had taken it. Fourth string boy, you're up!



Aryaan, the Champion, also the King would be the first to step onto the board. Strange how both he and Miles, both the Champions, would both choose the role of King. The young boy still awkward and gangly in the ways of early adolescence would find himself ensconced in glittering darkness. A cool wave of pitch that would wash over him and he would find himself in attire worthy of a king. From the silken tunic to the smart trousers and the great, dark cloak. The burdensome weight of his rule no longer merely symbolic as a blackened crown would rest on his head. Aryaan was the dark king.

Hadashi was a lot of things and on this day he would be a Queen. Oh the things Hadashi would have to endure for the sake of potential victory. Like Rett, the boy might find that he filled out the dramatic black dress well. The exquisite and as the kids these days might say 'incredibly extra' gown of blackened lace, and satins and silks would create a dramatic silhouette. A ring for every finger quite possibly and a great, dark crown that would rest on his head. Would Hadashi be a merciful and kind Queen? Probably not. Would Hadashi make his peers suffer for the plethora of media images that would be circling the tabloids of him in a dress? Likely.

Sara played Queen's Rook. They would find themselves stepping onto the back of a chariot, staring at the rear of a great, black stallion, whose tail would swish in front of the youth. They would find themselves donning dark, leather armor and a set of reigns mysteriously in their hands.

Sara was mirrored by the boisterous Chikao, the King's Rook would step onto the walled chariot. He was dressed as a warrior would be in dark armor, his chariot a vehicle of destruction and havoc, an extension perhaps of the boy's nature.

Chiaki did not seem the type, clutching a plushy that would fade away in their hands and be replaced by a lance. The tiny student would find themself taken in true magical girl style from the checkered board, twirling to the back of a stomping horse. From new heights, they would be able to assess the battleground that they would not be able to merely bear witness to. Donning black armor that they might erroneously conclude would confer a modicum of protection, perhaps they felt relief at the very least from this vantage point of illusionary safety.

Ginyami was supposed to be sitting this match out, but he would find the demands of his peers had alternative plans. He would approach by choice or coercion, the King's Knight and step onto the board. expected by this point, having seen multiple transformations by this point the darkness would temporarily overtake him and make him into a dark knight. Not batman, nice try. on the back of a horse he may/may not know how to ride, wearing heavy, gleaming black armor, he ight be distressed wot find a lance in hand.

He was not the only last minute stand-in, as Christopher was directed to the Queen's Bishop. If anyone truly knew or understood the boy, they would find the choice laughable. The darkness, which was at the very least fitting, would overtake the boy and he would emerge from the sparkling, dark haze a 'holy man.' Well, a dark holy man in possession of the good adequate book.

And finally, Akira, Chikao's personal babysitter, would step onto the board and find the same darkness overtake him. And he too would don the priestly vestments and become a nondenominational holy man of yes, the 'adequate' word. A stiff, square hat (biretta) on his head and the liturgical garb of an allegedly holy man. He was armed with a book when the King and queen were given fancy scepters, the knights were given lances and at least the rooks (Chikao included) were entrusted with horses. He was gypped!

________________

Miles Thatcher (@Simon Kincaid) had both the honor, privilege and burden of being the Ilvermorny Champion. His life had changed greatly since the moment his name was called. He had no idea how much until it happened. the keen interest in the media, the circulating and unnecessary rumors. The stress of managing a team, preparing them for a future and an event that even he did not fully understand. His new found interest in academics would also prove to be exhausting, the more spells he knew, the greater advantage he would have in the Hexwizard Tournament. There were older students who had an array of spells and dozens of options, he would need to expand his own arsenal if he wanted to stay toe-to-toe.

He would find support in those stands. From faces he knew -- classmates, friends, acquaintances, even Professors. Also from faces he had seen but never knew, such as members of MACUSA and even governments abroad. It was a surreal feeling being known by others that they themselves never knew or had only heard of. The discovery of fame is a strange thing, it takes awhile to sink in. A smile and wave would be met with a flurry of shutters and a request to turn the other way for another shot. He would be asked questions such as his plans, if he felt he could win and who his special lady was to him. All questions he would not have time to answer as the wave of momentum that came with this Task took over and he found himself on the edge of the board.

Olive Adair (@Sienna Lenoir) would follow closely behind Miles. She was his "special person" and for that reason she was thrust into the limelight, no fault or want of her own. The experience potentially overwhelming. People would try to ask her questions, not that she would have the tie, opportunity or option to answer as the procession pushed her onward. 'How are you Miles' special person' and 'can you give him a kiss for the camera' among other requests and questions would be submitted to the overstimulated girl as she was paraded across the ballroom and then led to the benches. A smile from Miles would hopefully give her strength. If nothing else she was going to get a front-row seat. She would be joined by Andy and Nick, there was worse company to be had, that was for certain.

Andy Nicholas Menton (@Rita Su) was a waitlisted member who was still left in Ilvermorny ranks. despite his age he was not cast aside and he traveled into the ballroom third in line, after only Mile's "special person." He would have a mixed sentiment regarding this event, how he wanted to participate and leave the bench he was about to warm but knowing that would be at the consequence of one of his schoolmates. The boy had a gentle heart that betrayed his wanting soul.

Nick Iris (@Quinn Root) would follow young Andy into the ballroom and be accosted by the cheers and accolades of the spectators. Like Andy, Quinn was a second-string, they were prepared for disaster on his team if the 1990's serves as warning for what would come to pass during this Hexwizard Tournament. He would sit with Andy and watch the game from the sidelines.

Everett Brooks (@Dorion Anderson) was proud of his place on the team. it had given Rett as well as his family by extension bragging rights that they could take with them well into Rett's post-secondary education if he were to win this. "Let's show them what Ilvermorny is made of." The teen announced.

Elowen Fernsby (@Pea Elena Fowl) did have the all-American boy look down. He was not even sure how he got there, typical American really. This is why we keep compasses on our broomsticks. "Hey Rett!" the cheerful boy would call out to the youth immediately in front of him. This was an exciting day. Neither, well in fact none of them thus far had truly grasped the gravity of the situation that they were in. Today was going to shape their lives as well as the lives of their families. They could be proud of what they represent but they should also fear the potential for not only harm but also shame. what if they fail miserably? What if they are not strong enough, smart enough, brave enough to face the perils before them? Looking up, those streamers did not seem so dangerous, neither did those stands full of cheering fans and media, of political powerhouses and friends and professors... so many faces... so many people.

Louca Dufort (@Emma Wynn) was more exited than he was apprehensive. This was an amazing opportunity and an excellent challenge. He would call behind him to Jamie, "you ready for this? Because I definitely am! Let's do this!"

Iris Fields (@Kartina Walker) was unnerved by the crowds and the noise, the beautiful decorations. A lot was riding on her tiny shoulders as she tried to separate herself from the expectations pothers had for her and tried to blaze her own path. she would be following the procession to the edge of the chessboard. She had never done this before, yet there were some things even in magic that seemed natural. She would know that they were going to be soon stepping onto the chess board and that they would engage in a sort of chess combat. There was even a demonstration in the rehearsal room that was well-discussed if not by her teammates then by other (faceless NPC) students.

Jamie Ziegler (@Gemima Sable) being a student behind Louca, behind Iris that is, would hear Louca's words of encouragement. "Let's go!" The energy seemed to buzz through young Jamie, where others were overwhelmed, he was simply energized by it all. Six magical schools, all his friends, all these fancy and important people, the media and his professors were all there. An intimidating prospect to some, but not Jamie as he entered the ballroom and made his way to the platform. He was among friends, teammates that he had come to know and trust.

His butterbeer shook in his young hands as he made his way across the floor. A few shots for the sake of advertisement as well as a few opinion pieces would be taken of the youth holding a butterbeer. Perhaps a bit too much excitement, but nothing the boy could not handle. he would stand along the perimeter of the board with the rest of his team waiting to step forward. Taking a final swig of his mug, he threw the mug behind him with more power than was reasonable for a young teen. [Going to the spectators] An arm slung over his friend Louca's shoulder, they awaited the start of the game.

Phylicia Stanwood (@Bridget Collins) would enter the ballroom, feeding off the energy of the audience. She would identify the single maple leaf in a sea of banners, signs and streamers. "I love you Canadian-flag person!" There were media outlets recording her every movement and there was a series of flashes that would accompany the girl's finger guns. Hopefully it would not be used for an unfortunate advert for a flatulence remedy or an easy-open potion bottle even a woman can open. Alas, the plight of fame.



Well, she was not even worried as she suddenly noticed her previously forgotten about lady crush (Iris) who was separated only by Louca. Yeah, she was pretty and even better as a blonde. Then there was Maxi, who was a fine hand holder and flower-watcher... The girl liked girls and poor Maxi was going to be having a bad time in a few months. A bloody shame, hopefully he takes it well, but he probably won't. Who takes being dumped well? Who is really a "reasonable" ex? How will she explain that she did not string him along when she finally stumbles face first out of that closet? And if or when she does, would he or really anyone for that matter accept it. Not just the diversion from the norm but the departure from the familiar and the routine, from the comfortable and relatable.

Well, that was a problem for tomorrow-Phyllis.

She really had to stop staring at Iris, it was almost game time. "Okay guys! Let's do this! Manifest your inner monarchy and get ready to be the chessiest chess pieces that ever chessed."

Was "chessiest" or "chessed" real words? Did the narrator have a joke that he was not going to make? The answer to only one of these is "yes" and it is not the former.

Stephen Schwartz (@AngelFyre McCubbin) was the last to make his way into the ballroom for team Ilvermorny. He was not playing in an active capacity for this game, but he was about to have one of the best seats in the house filled with good company but not quite out of the splash zone. it was good that he was there up close. He was able to he exactly what he signed up for, a sort of informed consent before someone dropped out or dropped dead. He was one of the few that thought about Lazarus Plott who was conspicuously absent from this event. There was no additional fanfare, no fireworks, not loud processions of doves or swarms of fireflies. The man was as showman and this was his moment, the center of the wizarding world, not nation or even continent but the entire world and yet he would not even see Plott in the stands cheering them on. He would however see across the way, the Hogwarts Headmaster meandering towards the benches for the Hogwarts Team. He would see most of the other Headmasters and Headmistresses in the stands, many in the company of their fellow professors or pocketed with top-ranking officials in their nation.

Stephen was in good company with Nick and Olive.



It would finally be time however for the team to step onto the board. The Champion, Miles would go first. He would step onto the board and as he did so he would start to change. It was not a painful change, but a change all the same as a glittering light would swirl about him and his clothes would take on a new form. Miles was always affable and charming and the attire that he now donned was outright princely, no kingly. A smart pair of silken trousers and a satin-trimmed collared shirt. The royal mantle was rather intricate but only in snow white. A long cloak of velvet and fur was draped over his shoulders. On his brow rested the weight of a great crown of silvered metal and sparkling jewels. In his hand a mighty scepter, with a softball sized gem on the end. He seemed a bit taller perhaps, but it was probably the shoes. All dear Olive could see however was the great cape covering his rear, sorry dear one.

Everett might, might not... we will soon find out, forgive Miles for what he was about to undergo. The glitter seemed to possess an internal light, a pleasant and warm magic that would dramatically change him. His humdrum, ordinary attire would be transformed into something new and something grand. A great ballgown, a white skirt of silks, satin and tulle was encrusted in gems and glitter. He was indeed all that sparkled on this day. Satin gloves and a fur-trimmed cloak. The boy would be either delighted or horrified. Yet either way, he made a lovely, albeit slightly terrifying queen. His crown was also hefty, much like the burden of this imaginary kingdom. Like glittering lace, bejeweled with diamonds and white sapphires, the boy had become the incarnation of luxury at this very moment.



Louca might have expected at this point that he would be wearing something dramatic, perhaps with a nifty crown. Or perhaps he would be terrified that he was going to be stuck in a dress also. If he was, then he had never played chess before -- there was only one queen. All hail queen Rett. No, the boy would become a man of God or of some non-denominational deity, in truth chess is not particularly picky. He would find himself comfortably attired in priestly vestments. A white, cotton cassock beneath fitted liturgical garments. A row of small, pearlescent buttons would run down the face to his ankles where the garment comfortably flared. On his head, a humble white biretta with a pleasant pom that could be felt if he lifted his hand. What sort of religion was this? The narrator does not even know! In Louca's hand, the 'good' or at least 'morally neutral' book again of non-denominational association.

Iris would become the "Castle," better known as the Rook. Originally, the rook symbolized a chariot. The Persian word rokh means chariot, and the corresponding pieces in Oriental chess games such as xiangqi and shogi have names meaning chariot. Persian War Chariots were heavily armoured, carrying a driver and at least one ranged-weapon bearer, such as an archer. The sides of the chariot were built to resemble fortified stone work, giving the impression of small, mobile buildings, causing terror on the battlefield. However, in the West, the rook is almost universally represented as a fortified tower. One possible explanation is that when the game was imported to Italy, the Persian rokh became the Italian word rocca, meaning fortress. Another possible explanation is that rooks represent siege towers. Rooks are usually made to look like small castles, and as a result, a rook is sometimes called a "castle", usually by non-players and those new to the game.

She would experience the same dancing lights that would envelope her and allow the girl her magical girl transformation. She would find herself stepping onto the back of a walled chariot driven by a white horse. She would be wearing white, leather armor and she would find the reigns in her hands.

Jamie on the opposite end of the board would also step o to the board and find themselves on the back of an identical walled chariot. The white walls, complete with battlement would partially obfuscate the view others had of them as they looked down at most of their allies and opposition from their place of relative safety, second in height only to the knights that towered over them.

Phylicia being one such knight. Hopefully she was a horse girl because she was now a white knight. On the back of a bridled white horse with a long, flowing mane, a little girl's fantasy in some cases with and in some cases without thee shirtless Fabio. She was no romance novel cover however, armored in gleaming silvered armor, she would find a lance in one hand and the reins in the other. The horse would snort and shift beneath her impatiently.

Elowen would also find herself on the back of a great and lovely mare, powerful and unyielding. It was mildly disoriented finding herself up so high so suddenly, and quote possibly twirled there if she abided by the magical girls transformation cliches. She was armored in polished, silvered armor and would be able to see the entire board through her visor from a new vantage point.

Amelie Fontaine (@Sarah Lightwood) never posted and Tina Parker (@Jacob Harman) was to replace them but has also failed to post. If they fail to post in a round, they will be forfeiting their move. I can only hope that they post for you. Tina was to be another Bishop but narration withheld because I do not know if they are a no-show.

There was supposed to be one more Bishop of non-denominational association. They were one short, for whatever reason their final intended was a no-show. Several murmurs would circulate through the audience, of both confusion and disappointment. At this point one could only hope that they would burst in through the door and rush up to the board as the game was going to start with or without them!

Of note: C1 (formerly Amelie) may be Tina Parker (as mentioned above).

RP as: Chikao Narumi
English, Japanese, Russian, Giant

Despite how excited Chikao was, he could feel the glares from the many Mahoutokoro spectators. No matter what was to occur, he already gave a horrific display of shame and if he wasn't gonna get expelled, then he was gonna receive one of the worst punishments in Mahoutokoro. He shook his head, he couldn't even imagine what sort of punishment he'd be given. For now, he needed to focus. There was a chance, a very slim chance, but he could get out of punishment on how things turn out. He took his stance prepared as the King's Rook. His foot lifted, and he took his step on the board.

The darkness that veiled him and vanished within an instant left the boy feeling natural. Some would be amazed or be caught off guard by the heaviness of the leather armor. Chikao barely felt any difference, and he held the soul of a warrior. It felt natural as Chikao took the reigns of the horse to his chariot. An Oni Membo covered the boy's face, strengthing the intimidating look he gave. Chikao wondered if his ancestors were Japanese warriors who wore similar face wear. If that was so, then that would mean he gets his battle rage blood from his mother, as his father was a foreigner to the lands of Japan.

Chikao held tightly onto the reigns. He sighed, "Man, I was hoping for a Tetsubo..." Despite the boy's disappointment, he was more than ready for a fight. His horse clearly displayed the spirit within him, glaring at their opponents acting wild. If the horses of Diomedes, who ate the flesh of men, actually existed and survived for so long, then Chikao got lucky to find one of them still existed. His blood was boiling, itching to start. He turned his head, taking note of- "KMPH-" CHikao immediately looked down. He couldn't help it, it was too funny. He looked back up, and it took every ounce of strength from this boy not to laugh as he saw Hadashi in a dress. A very small chuckle escaped the boy, but he looked back taking note of everyone. The holy books, the spears, the scepters. Honestly, he actually began to question if it was right for him to be here.

Was Chikao really a good candidate to help Aryaan succeed as Champion? He didn't know. His grip on the reigns loosened slightly, and Chikao gave slight thought. The horse shook, reawakening Chikao from deep thought. There wasn't time to think, there was only time to act. Battle was an honor, battle was friendship. To fight means to bring peace, to give it your all means you respect everyone. Even if they were his enemies, Chikao was hoping to make some friends during this event: "All right, let's show em what we got Hachiman1!" As his grip tightened, Chikao felt like the Red Horseman himself. Even giving his Persona Horse a decent name.

Action: As Strategized
Allies: All Mahou students

1 - Hachiman, Shinto deity of war

ʀᴏʟᴇᴘʟᴀʏɪɴɢ ᴀꜱ ɴᴘᴄ ꜱᴀʀᴀ ᴋᴏʜᴀɴᴀ ꜰʀᴏᴍ ᴍᴀʜᴏᴜᴋᴏᴛᴏʀᴏ

EᑎᑕY :	ᗩᗷIᒪITIEᔕ
	{ ᶠᵉᵃʳˡᵉˢˢ } { ᴸᵒᵛᵉˡʸ ᶜʳᵉᵃᵗᵘʳᵉ } { ᵀᵉʳʳⁱᵇˡᵉ ᴾʳᵉˢᵉⁿᶜᵉ } { ᴱᵛᵃˢⁱᵛᵉ ᴹᵉⁿᵘᵉᵛᵉʳˢ}

HIs incantations mutterings of beloved cats from his memories have ceased the more the other students from Mahoutokoro cheered each other on. In their own…. Individually unique ways. One he could only give a strict affirmative nod to. Sportsmanship was a beautiful thing. His eyes narrowed as if he sensed something foul. But really he was just holding back tears of joy. Yea, that’s right. This wasn’t Quidditch where he had to anxiously wait his incoming doom. The DOOM- is already here. But the DOOM allowed reliable people to have Sara’s back.

And in face of his assurance and a new form of relief, Sara looked extra angry. And when the skinny looking american boy waved at him, he looked angier.

A true sign of joy.

When the transformation started, Sara’s first thoughts were ‘ooop’. Too much was happening at the time, the new heights, the armor, the magic girl style transformation. He’d be as stiff as a board. Probably even more stiff than the one he’s actually on. Unsure if he would be making a mistake right off the bat. He wasn’t sure how anyone could go wrong with outfit transformation. But hey, anyways- he grasped on the new reigns with the faintest of smiles. At least its not pink.

He gave a brief glance towards his other comrades, trying to notice their own reactions to the new set-up. The Ilvermorny team would be the next to receive his ‘friendly’ gaze. He wished he bought his sunglasses. Bright colours were never his favourite thing to look at.

Action: Entering

El is standing in the middle of the Hogwarts ballroom. He has visited this same ballroom a couple of times but just never really notice it being this grand before. He is excited and hyped, and serotonin filled his head as hype songs jam his mind. Although mind games and strategic game is not something he excels at he still would like to make his team proud.

It was then that the game is starting. He sees Miles their champion stepping into the board. But then something amazing happened. Something really really amazing. Miles shines brightly and glitters as his clothes transform into something fabulous. He swears he saw these in cartoons he watched on tv. It was a hilarious transformation as he sees everyone also doing the same.

Until it is his turn. This is finally his time to shine, the spotlights are on him. He walks dramatically unto the board. Putting one of his arms on his hips sassily,

Screaming to the top of his lungs, "WITH THE POWER OF ILVERMORNY IN ME!" He twirled dramatically to the audience and winked, "TRANSFORM!" Perfectly timed, he was raised from the ground, and glitters surrounds him as his clothes shine brightly transforming into a very shiny armour. He was suddenly on top of a majestic mare, similar to their other knight, Phylicia. He finishes his transformation with a peace sign on top of his majestic horse.

Action : Transforming/doing as strategized

Stephen had been the last of the Ilvermorny team to enter the Ballroom, and upon taking his seat on the bench, he started looking around his surroundings more closely. The first thing he noticed was the noise going on all around them. It was deafening. He had been to chess matches before, had even participated in them, but it was clear that this match was going to be unlike anything he, and most likely any of them, had ever experienced. Chess was generally a quiet game, a thoughtful, cerebral game of strategy. This match would be loud and frenetic; purposefully designed to not allow moments of calm thoughtfulness. And since there would literally be real skin in the game, the school combatants would likely feel their cerebral areas tickled less and their lizard-brained areas tickled more in the heat of the moment.

And that is when mistakes would be made.

That is why Stephen knew Ilvermorny was in good hands with Miles at the helm. There could be three chess matches going on around him and the team or thirty. It wouldn't matter because the boy exuded calm and control and a staggering intellect. He would keep his team focused and centered, but what he couldn't do, apparently, was to babysit them to the point of setting their alarm clocks for them.

As Stephen looked at those gathered at the edge of the chess board and those seated on the bench, he noted two members were oddly absent; a first stringer, Amelie, and a second stringer, Tina. How in the name of Merlin could they miss being here? Boggles the mind. Stephen kept diverting his eyes around the Ballroom for any sign of either one of them. Maybe they were here but just waylaid while trying to purchase a commemorative T-shirt or something equally unimportant in this particular moment.

He also couldn't help but notice that Headmaster Plott was nowhere to be seen, which was really odd as well. Did that have anything to do with the two missing players? Plott never missed an opportunity to preen and strut before cameras or wax his brand of dull inanity before a microphone, so where was he? Other schools had their Headmasters or Headmistresses here and supporting their teams, but not Ilvermorny, at least not right this second. Stephen shook his head and momentarily put his head in his hands, laughing to himself. Maybe someone had plotted against Plott. Maybe they had done the team a favor by gagging and tying him up, leaving him shoved into, and unconscious, in a storage closet somewhere.

There could be worse things.

The gasps from the crowd and his benched teammates were what made him look up from his hands. He saw that Miles had stepped onto the board and was undergoing the most replendent transformation imaginable. All of the players, on both sides, were being magicked into costumes of appropriate regal opulence to match the part they were to play upon their checkered field of battle.

Stephen had never seen anything like it. All he could do was sit there and watch in rapt wonder and pride as player after player was made ready before the eyes of the wizarding world to make history.

[quote]

Action: Pondering the setting and the whereabouts of Ilvermorny players and Headmaster

Stats: Sta 8 || Eva 7 || Str 8 || Wis 8 || Arc 5 || Acc 4

Abilities: Perfectionist || Evasive Maneuvers

The Trunk :

Mentions: @Simon Kincaid as Miles Thatcher @Sarah Lightwood as Amelie Fontaine and @Jacob Harman as Tina Parker

Date: October 22nd, 2022
Mentioning: Jamie Zeigler @Gemima Sable, Stephen Schwartz @AngelFyre McCubbin
Word Count: 387

Louca rocked slightly as Jamie wrapped his arm around his shoulder, laughing joyously, ready to take on things. He may not have much of a clue about chess but Mahoutokoro wouldn't be able to tell from the way he was behaving. He had all the confidence in his team, and no doubts whatsoever.

Louca was surprised (although really he shouldn't have been) when Miles stepped forward and was engufled by a glittery light that would change his clothes into something more fancy, very much king-like in nature. He then watched Everett undergo a similar change with different clothing. Curious about what he would end up with, Louca chuckled, hoping that the clothing wouldn't be too uncomfortable. After all, he was assuming they would be here for a while and while it was October, which meant cooler weather, there had still been some balmier days. Stepping onto the board, he was not surprised by the light that surrounded him. He simply closed his eyes and waited.

When he opened his eyes and looked down, he would find that he was wearing clothing not much different than his robes, or at least they didn't feel much different, though he hoped that the same magic that had transformed his clothes could do the same in reverse as those buttons looked to be a pain in the butt to deal with. In one hand, he had some sort of book, which he didn't really pay much attention to, instead focusing on the something he could feel on his head, hoping it didn't look too weird. Though who was he kidding? He'd probably be laughing at himself if he had been in the crowd. Reaching up, he felt the four corners, but did not reach toward the middle where he would have found the pom.

Looking around, he glanced at Jamie and then Stephen, making sure his voice was loud enough to be heard by both, which subsequently meant the whole team heard him. "You know what this means? I've been upgraded to a Holy terror! Get it?" Louca smirked, laughing as if he was the first person to ever come up with that joke. He was sure he was not, but still couldn't resist.

Ready to begin, he bounced on the spot, moving the book from one hand to the other.

As Approved iNPC Iris Fields Color: English= BF8080 Norwegian= BF8040

Mentioning: Ilvermorney Team (namely Elowin and Louca) Interacting With: N/A

There was one thing about learning the basic mechanics of a game of chess and a completely other thing to be standing on a large square watching a teammate suddenly explode into a main character type moment of magical white sparkles like a shooting star--or rather, something else that's much closer and lasts longer and results in a complete dramatic transformation.

It was thrilling.

Everything was starting to rub off on her and at some point she stopped fidgeting with her wand. Instead, Iris let the whole scene wash over her. The eyes of the media and flashes of light were encouragement. The (slightly overhyped) cheering of the audience was just for her.

The teammates she was surrounded with, she'd begun to know in a deeper sense. Once teenagers thrown into a room together who now ended up knowing far more about one another than they'd ever expect. They had grown together in the last while as a team. While they sometimes held far more energy than Iris could handle, the excitement rubbed off.

Although she'd been expecting it, the burst of magical light around her was still a slight shock. Iris was aware of the clicking and flashing of the cameras and took the time to toss her on a whim bleach dyed hair over one shoulder, at least giving some motion to what she hoped would be a moving photo she could have later. Once her eyes adjusted back to the regular light of the room, Iris found herself stood on the back of a white chariot, reigns in hand, and a pristine white horse tossing its head in front of her. Upon a glance at her hands, Iris found she was clad in white leather armor. Hopefully it looked good on the cameras.

Iris took a moment to survey the board, trying to recall every ounce of knowledge that had been shared to just how this all worked. She typically wasn't one to play strategy games like chess-- broom racing was more her forte-- but there was enough riding on her ability to win this game that she'd taken the time to know how it all fit together.

Iris found herself laughing at the comments of her teammates. El with the perfectly timed line that sounded right out of one of those tv things people talked about and Louca with the 'holy' joke. Iris shook her head, grin on her face, and turned to face the Mahoutokoro team with an air of confidence.