Aether Bound

Chapter 0 - Locum Consilium

A large, well-dressed man says to a young child, both appearing to be apparitions "This, my dear Liliana, is Lucum Concilium." They stand in the courtyard of a temple of some kind. Hanging moss drapes across the pathways that the monks walk under, "It is here that you will find your socio." In the courtyard are three children around the same age of the young girl, each practicing with a different weapon. "Why are you so disinterested Liliana?" the man asks when the girl looks away, watching the other monks "This decision will affect the rest of your life."

"They're all kids." She retorts, still scanning the walkways

He places his hand on her head "As are you, my dear."

"I am the daughter of the Aetherial War General, and one of the Great Healers!" she says, knocking his hand from her head "I shouldn't be restricted to these incompetent peasants!"

"Enough!" She stops as the man's voice booms "You have lived a lavish lifestyle up until now, but once you are bound, that will all end." He kneels down, softening his expression "This will mark the start of your life. The one that you and your socio sculpt together."

Liliana looks to one of the walkways "I can choose anyone I want, right?"

"Yes..." he pauses for a moment "What are you thinking?" he asks, noticing her gaze

"Oh, nothing father..." She says with a scheming smile

With a concerned look, he stands "Stay here until I return. I must speak with Magister Philotheus." Taking a step forward, the air around him begins to ripple as he regains his colors

Liliana watches as her father leaves "...Nothing at all." she says to herself as she begins to walk through the halls. As she wanders, she happens upon a small sparing room. Inside is a young pair of Demi-humans, a boy, and girl the same age, their ears and tail a rare sight in a temple full of humans. Her interest quickly turns to disappointment as the boy struggles with basic maneuvers. When the boy is knocked down, she begins to leave but stops when he struggles to his feet.

"They're Adrianus and Nydia." Shocked, Liliana freezes at the sound of her father's annoyed voice. "He is unskilled, He tilts his head," watching the boy struggling to stand after being knocked down again "tho very persistent." Looking over to the girl, "As for her," he rolls his eyes as he turns "her mind is too cloudy to show any positive results. You need not bother with them." Taking Liliana's hand, he begins to lead her away "Now come, Magister Philotheus wishes to speak with you.

As they both walk, passing into the mortal realm, Liliana looks over her shoulder, back toward the room "Yes father."

As they enter the magister's office, they are greeted by Philotheus "Ah, welcome Master, and Miss Redday"

"Salve..." Liliana mutters

Her father places his hand on her back "Liliana, you need to speak English while you are in this realm."

Philotheus raises his hand "It's quite alright Thaddeaus," He looks to Liliana, a smile on his face "Salve, quam facitis hodie?"

"Bene sum..." Liliana pouts

Philotheus smiles "Numquid scis quare adsumus hodie?"

Thaddeaus sighs "Please, do not encourage her Philotheus."

He nods, standing up "My apologies Thaddeaus." walking over to a counter, he picks up a cup "Tea?" Thaddeaus raises his hand in denial "Right, onto the matter at hand. Miss Redday," Having spaced out, her attention snaps back to Philotheus "What do you know about the binding ceremony?" The hours pass as the three discuss everything to come. "I know this is a lot to take in all at once, but you do not have to make a decision right-"