[Log] Sakuno and Zaizen
Who: Zaizen Hikaru and Ryuuzaki Sakuno
Where: Eldan
When November 24th
What: Zaizen comes to deliver a letter for his brother and runs into the explosive magic practice of Sakuno.
Rating: G
Comments: Yay for music love~
After traveling for what felt like months (it actually wasn't, but really with the lack of hygiene that came with traveling... well Zaizen felt less than happy) Zaizen finally managed to arrive in Raytin's capital, Eldan earlier than planned. Which also meant though that he could have some time to himself there before going home. He'd also been asked to pick up a few things, which he managed rather quickly. That left him sitting in the city capital, staring up at it rather curiously. He'd been to Risath's capital a few times before and both were rather different... in a way. At least he had some extra money to treat himself to something though, so he ended up picking out a few things to test out different ways of doing potions.
Part of him was rather curious though, because he'd read on the journals that there was some of the mage council and trainees in the capital too that he was half tempted to spy on. He just had no idea where, which was partly why with a glance back into the main part of the city area he started walking to where they were most likely to be around. He still had that letter to deliver anyway...
Sakuno had been exploring a little on her own but held herself back from going too far in case she got lost. Ever since they arrived she hadn't quite been clued in on what was happening but she was more than content not knowing. After all she had traveled all this way and it was all terribly exciting and hard to get used to at the same time. Amongst all the traveling she also hadn't had much time to practice herself as she was in the company of others and her teacher was preoccupied. So perhaps using this extra time for practice would be a better idea.
The braided haired girl made her way around looking for a nice spot where she wouldn't interupt anyone. (Or namely somewhere she could practice alone without having someone in the 'blasting zone.') She wasn't quite yet able to practice more white magic so she would have to strengthen her basics. And of course with that came the hazards of her misfiring which she didn't want to expose anyone but herself to. Now to find somewhere solitary...
After walking for five or so minutes, Zaizen looked back over the hill to check what the scenery was like. It wasn't bad. Of course, when he got to the more scenic area, he saw a girl in the distance walking around as well. He had no idea why she was, and really the only way he could tell it was a girl from that distance was because of her attire. Stepping closer, Zaizen hopped down across a rockier part of the path until he could get closer. He didn't plan on saying anything, but he was curious to know whether she was alright.
Of course, he had no idea she was the girl he'd talked to on the journal at all.
Sakuno let out a small sigh of relief when she finally found a spot far enough away from everyone. It looked like there was no one else around but her after a quick glance around; perfect. Taking a few deep breaths she closed her eyes and concentrated for a few moments. Normally calming herself and not worrying about the end result seemed to work. At least most of the time anyway, it had been a while since she last tried this. Maybe if she started with something small it would be alright.
Opening her eyes again she took a firm stance and took in another deep breath. As she held it she concentrated on the space a few feet in front of her and focused her energy there. A small ignis incantation wouldn't be that disasterous, right..?
Right, sure it wouldn't, Sakuno. Zaizen paused mid-step when he took in her stance then, finally seeing up close what she was doing. He took up a spot nearby, but not close enough to be in the 'danger zone' and sat down on the ground. He pulled his feet closer and pressed his arm over his knee, watching her curiously but he kept out of her line of sight, just in case. He'd seen the routine plenty of times before anyway, and knew a few things himself from teaching himself a thing here or there (under the supervision of her brother, but still) so he figured it'd be useful to take note of what she was doing too.
Of course, it didn't seem to work like that, did it? Zaizen was just lucky he'd kept out of the way, wasn't he?
As if on cue the moment the girl was about to finish letting loose the energy it seemed to go berserk and explode in its tiny controlled radius. Sakuno winced as she lost control and waved away the small amount of smoke that wafted from the miniature explosion. Another failure, and she thought she was doing so well.
The small girl sighed and brushed off the bit of dust that had accumulated on her after the misfire. Oh well, another failure just meant the need for more practice. She should have expected as much with the lack of practice lately and all. After collecting her thoughts she got back into position once more and tried again; with the same results a few more times. It was going to be a tiring day...
After the third or fourth time Zaizen left his belongings on the floor and dusted himself off. "Hey." He was probably going to shock the poor girl to death, but after seeing her try and try and only blow it up... well he felt like he had to say something. He tried to keep out of the way though, just in case she was going to do it again - he didn't really want to get on the receiving end of that misfire after all. "Relax."
He looked absolutely straight faced though, not mocking or anything like he had been with that guy, Shiraishi, on the journals. "Try to close your mind a bit too, you're letting too much into it."
"K-Kya!" Sakuno jumped and misfired again in the space in front of her. Years of mistakes had given her a good reflex of not firing at whoever or whatever surprised her, thankfully. She spun around in a panic to face him, still worried if she'd accidentally hurt them somehow with the failures. "A-Are you alright..?" she gasped, a bit breathless between the surprise and spell.
A shrug was all she got in response as Zaizen thankfully side stepped it. "I'm fine." His lips twitched into a slight smirk though, mainly because of how surprised she was. "So stop panicking and try again." He dug his hands into his pockets, perfectly ready to jump aside even with that. "Take your time, nice and slow." He kept his eyes on her, making sure she actually didn't harm herself.
Plus, by watching he might be able to get an idea as to what was wrong with it all, right? Maybe?
Sakuno wasn't quite sure who he was or why he was helping her, but she appreciated it all the same. She nodded and obediently followed his directions. Whether it would help or not she wasn't sure but she would take his advice. It never hurt to try something new after all.
Positioning herself again she took another deep breath and tried to relax herself. She concentrated like she had before and tried not to think too much. Finally when she released the energy all seemed well, except for the last split second when it backfired once more. At least the explosion was a lot smaller this time, though that could have just been because it wasn't as powerful to begin with.
"S-Sorry..." she found herself apologizing like she had done something wrong. At least if felt like it to her, anyone else probably would have been able to cast it just fine with that advice alone.
"Just... try it again. Don't apologise." Zaizen watched her critically. "Steady yourself and take your time again. You're getting nervous and rushing it." She was doing much better, so obviously that tad bit of advice was going to help in the long run. "Clear your mind of everything except the spell." He rolled his eyes though when she wouldn't be able to see it, though it was more in the 'this is obvious' fashion rather than exasperation.
He took a step closer, tilting his head as he waited for her to try again. "Remember, keep calm." He moved one hand up, touching his hair lightly just as something to do so he wouldn't feel so awkward about it all.
"O-Okay..." she nodded once more and tried again. Truth be told it was all advice she had been given one time or another whether it was from her parents or teacher. She just could never seem to get a grip on things. At least not since that big explosion...
Inhaling deeply again she concentrated and gathered her energy slowly this time. She didn't worry about controlling an explosion but instead of casting the small flame like she intended. Finally, she released her breath and was surprised when she released and saw a small flame. It quickly burnt out but it hadn't blown up in her face for a change. She blinked a few times not quite believing she had managed to do it successfully and not on the hundredth practice try. But it took a lot out of her as she slightly fell to her knees.
Well, at least she'd gotten it right this time? If it wasn't for the fact that her collapsing caught him by surprise he might've been able to stop her hitting the floor. Instead he just moved to next to her. "Hey, you alright?"
He nudged a patch of the singed ground in front of her before balancing to step in front of her and check she hadn't actually passed out or something. Luckily, she'd just gotten tired. Hopefully anyway. "You're awake, right?" He nudged her lightly, but didn't move much closer. Sorry Sakuno, but he'd never been the best at comforting or helping someone other than the way he had sort of just helped.
"I-I'm... fine..." she assured him, still not quite realizing who he was. She had used up a bit more energy than she probably should have. Sakuno was always afraid to release too much energy because of the backfiring so instead she would concentrate it on controlling any explosion that happened. It had just been so long since she hadn't that it was a bit taxing on her even if the end result had been quite weak. How silly for a white mage to have problems with energy, she still had a long way to go. "A-Ano... th-thank you.., um..?" she blinked at him curiously, realizing finally she was being helped by someone she didn't know. Or at least someone she wasn't quite familiar with.
He simply stared at her for that, amused beyond words really. "You'll be fine even if you aren't." He sat back again, kind of wishing he'd brought his stuff over with him. "Zaizen Hikaru." He paused as he stood back up again, heading over to grab his things and set them down closer to her so he wouldn't forget them, but also to pull out a bottle of water and hand it to her. "Though you're supposed to introduce yourself first."
Considering Zaizen had a few of the neutral spells down already through self teaching though, she probably did have a way to go. Even then though, she was being taught magic rather than just trying to teach herself which meant she at least had a way of improving a little quicker than most.
"E-Eh, Zaizen? Then you're from the journals..?" she gasped and immediately found herself blushing slightly embarrassed she hadn't realized. "F-Forgive me, I'm Ryuuzaki Sakuno... th-thank you so much for the help!" Sakuno bowed her head slightly and then noticed the water bottle held out for her. She mumbled another thanks through her blush and accepted it graciously. Thank goodness she hadn't hurt him or anything from the misfires, but how embarrassing for her to be so bad at magic...
"I-I suppose you know what I meant by explosion now, heh..." she laughed lightly at her own expense as she took a small sip of the water.
"I guess so." He didn't really seem to care either way though, and the comment about introducing herself first was really teasing more than anything. Though if she missed that, he wasn't going to point it out. "No problem though." He eyed her. "Does that normally happen all the time then?" He could see why it'd be a problem though, her resolve probably got worse after every attempt.
"You'll be able to get better now though, so don't worry about it." He just shrugged again and sat back down on the grass, taking his other bottle of water and swigging a drink.
She nodded slowly, "Y-Yes... it's happened for as long as I can remember practicing magic." Sakuno adjusted herself into a more comfortable sitting position and took another sip of the water.
"When I was younger I'd always practice with my father, he was a black mage and I admired him a lot. One day I tried to mimic him and that was when the backfiring seemed to have stopped. But then something went wrong and everything got out of control; it was the worst misfire I'd ever had. My father said it could have taken out a few houses if it had been concentrated enough..." she explained a bit sadly. It was the source of a lot of her anxiety since, she was aware of it. Everyone always told her not to worry about it or think too much but it was hard not to think back to it.
"...Ah." Well, that was pretty much all he said for a moment, as he contemplated it. "No wonder you're so nervous then." She looked kind of tiny to carry that kind of ability though, then again, they always say it's the shy, quiet ones that are the ones to look out for. One thing did make him curious though. "And that's why you decided to become a white mage instead?" He pressed his chin into his hand and leaned on it, actually looking bored but he was listening with his full attention. It was always interesting to hear other people's reasoning, even if he never said his own.
"By concentrating on that though, you're making it backfire. You really do need to stop it."
"I-I'm not much of a fighter." she smiled lightly, aware that the power in her explosions probably said otherwise. "And I know how scary magic can be or hurt after all. Mother was always there to help whenever things went wrong and I got hurt and I thought that would be better suited for me in the end since she was a white mage." It probably sounded like a silly or cowardly reason but she did really want to help others with it. She knew she wouldn't be fitted well for black magic even if she did manage to overcome her slight problem.
"I-I know... it's hard and I try to... I-It helps knowing that white magic doesn't quite explode on me, heh." she laughed lightly again, still a bit embarrassed about it. He was probably a lot better of a mage than she was so no doubt it all seemed a bit silly to her that she was so behind even in the basics.
"I can tell." He said it simply, though it really wasn't supposed to sound like the insult that it probably did. He paused then and stared ahead of them instead of it her, thinking it over. In some ways it made him wonder if he really knew what he was getting himself in for... in some ways he just didn't care. He pretty much knew he'd feel useless if he went on that path so... black magic it was.
"Well you got it right a few moments ago. So obviously you can do it." He took another swig of water only to flop back onto the grass then, taking a well deserved break. "You just need to start believing it."
She took no offense to his comment, as it was true either way; she had been the one to say it in the first place. Sakuno simply smiled, she appreciated his words and encouragement whether he meant it or not.
"I-I suppose I did, heh." she paused and took another sip of the water as she glanced down at him slightly. "I guess... between the mishaps and everything I'm not so sure how useful a white mage I'll be. But I don't want to give up either." the small girl smiled and glanced toward the sky.
Exactly. Plus, sometimes being honest about things worked out much better than trying to hide things or give people false hope. That and she had already made her decision anyway... just like he'd made his.
"You need to make sure your hands don't shake at all too, that probably doesn't help. One step at a time though." He shut his eyes then, just relaxing in the sun as he listened to her talk. "In the end, you'll be as useful as you let yourself be. If you keep at it, it'll work out." Hard work and perseverance, was what it took in the end.
"A-Ah... yes, I'll try harder the next time." she said but more to encourage herself than to him. If there was one thing Sakuno was well practiced in it was perseverance; even if she didn't exactly improve much. She drank from the bottle again and then realized they had been talking of nothing but her.
"A-Ano..." she began hoping to change the subject so as not to seem to rude. "How come you're here in Eldan, Zaizen?"
"Good." He wasn't that brilliant at encouraging people, so it was probably a good thing she was encouraging herself. "You'll get the hang of it eventually." She probably would too, it was probably only that one thing she needed to get past then she would be fine. That and stamina, maybe.
"Ah..." He opened his eyes to glance at her then, suddenly going uncomfortable as the topic switched to him. "I'm just delivering a letter for my brother. Nothing too important."
"Oh, I see. That's very nice of you to do that for your brother." she smiled, not quite knowing any better. She was always a little envious of those with siblings. It must have been nice; or so she thought growing up as an only child in such a small town.
That was easy for her to think... she didn't have a brother who was actually over eighty years older than her with a five year old son of his own. Zaizen kept his face straight, but he only nodded for a moment. "It's easier than arguing with him about it. Also means I don't have to babysit, so."
"Arguing..?" It wasn't as if she meant to pry but she just didn't quite realize that normally siblings did that, no matter what age. She had never had a rebellious thought in her little mind growing up so far so it was only natural. Sakuno was quite the naive small town mage, indeed.
She really was, and it probably didn't help that Zaizen brushed it off with a shrug. "Well if I say no he'll get angry, right?" He didn't mention anything about his rebellious activities (though really, the home made piercings in his ears said enough for that) nor did he mention why he was staying with his brother instead of his parents in the first place.
Instead he just pushed himself into a sitting position and let his hands hold him upright behind him, leaning back on them.
Sakuno tilted her head curiously. She had had indeed picked up that he was living with his brother and noticed the strange piercings but who was she to call attention to it in any way.
"I-I suppose so..." she wasn't sure if it was rude of her to ask any more questions really. She fiddled with the bottle a little in her hands idly as she sat there.
"Mmm," the soft noise was the only confirmation Sakuno received really, as a moment later he stood back up again, making sure to dust himself down properly. "Do you need any help getting back to where you're staying?" He wasn't sure how tired that spell had made her, but it had been enough to make her collapse. Either way he didn't think she should really try practising much more without someone to help her back if that was what she wanted to do.
"Well I did want to practice more... but I guess any more would be silly." she laughed lightly, glancing down at her legs. She was used to being tired from training but was careful never to collapse in front of anyone. Chances were if she collapsed once in a day she would again so it was probably best to stop for the day. "I suppose I should head back, I-... I think I should be okay on my own..." Sakuno trailed off as tried to get to her feet. She was a bit wobbly when getting up but when she stood back up straight enough.
"Practise makes perfect, sure, but health is more important. You should know that, being a white mage." He pulled his things back on again, intending to start walking with or without her. "I'm heading in that direction either way." That was sort of him offering for her to walk with him if she was heading that way too. It wasn't too far from the castle grounds, and he was supposed to give the letter to someone who lived or worked near there.
That was quite true; if there was one thing she still needed to learn it was taking care of herself too. Of course she didn't work herself until she was ragged but she did overdo it every now and then without thinking. She would need to learn to control herself; both magic and for her health's sake.
Taking the subtle hint she followed after him. Sakuno had a little habit of getting lost as well so she was very thankful to have someone to slightly guide her back. "Thank you again for everything." she couldn't help saying as she walked a little behind him.
Adjusting his bag Zaizen headed back for the main path that would head in the direction he need. "No problem." He glanced over his shoulder to double check she was following him. "If you need another nudge just let me know." He had no idea about her ability to get herself lost though, so it was probably lucky on her part that he mentioned that he was walking that way.
He did slow down slightly though so the poor girl wouldn't get separated, especially since he'd invited her along to begin with. More because it would be boring to walk the distance on his own. He really missed music, actually. It was a shame it wasn't portable, at least then he wouldn't have to worry about going crazy from having nothing to listen to for days on end.
"That would be lovely." she smiled in gratitude, whether he knew just how much help he had been to her all day or not. She took notice of the fact it became a bit easier to keep up with him, or maybe she was just more tired than she thought. Either way it was a pleasant walk; a lot more pleasant than it would have been for her getting lost.
"Mmm." There was a tiny, tiny smile on his lips as he quickened his pace for a moment, mainly because he was proud of himself more than anything. He was hardly much either, yet still he'd helped a little. Nothing like a tiny ego boost. He did hum a little though when the conversation died out again though, more to try and keep some for of entertainment as they neared his exit.
"Do you like music, Zaizen..?" she couldn't help asking when she overheard him humming a tune she was unfamiliar with. Well... she wasn't familiar with many tunes, just whatever travelers played in passing or traditionally back home. She didn't have much talent with music but she did enjoy listening to it. It was kind of a magic all its own to her.
"Yeah." Any other person would have looked sheepish at that, but Zaizen's expression had gone back to it's blank state again and didn't change again. "I play, back home. Obviously couldn't bring it with me though as it's too big and heavy... I miss it already though." It helped calm him more than anything, and it was the rare way that he could actually show his emotions really, most of the time. There were slight cases where something other than a bored, cocky or smug expression was in place. "you?"
"Oh, I think it's wonderful." she lit up again with her usual smile. She didn't really take much notice in his expression but instead concentrated more on the conversations. People were normally different from their appearances anyway. "I don't think I could ever play anything, but I love to listen to it when I can." She looked up to him and frowned ever so slightly, feeling a bit badly for him. "I'm sorry you couldn't bring it with you... it sounds like you really enjoy playing." She couldn't begin to wrap her mind around playing it, she had a bad enough time with magic. But it must have been quite fun to, that much she was positive of.
"You do?" Her saying that made him at least warm up to her a little. Music was pretty much... well possibly more to him than using magic ever would be. It was a shame he had no idea how to combine the two, really. One day, maybe. "It's calming, so I tend to use it to relax, especially at the end of a long day." He slowed when they neared a fork in the road, mostly to check and see whether she was leaving yet - apparently not though. "Why do you think you wouldn't be able to though?"
"Yes, that's it exactly." she smiled once more. Maybe if she was as at peace when listening to music as she was with magic she would improve faster or get over her anxiety. But it wasn't as if she could have someone there playing music for her all the time. That would be quite comforting though.
She continued to follow along as she really only needed to be back in the area of the castle. Whether she entered or was on the outskirts at least she couldn't get too lost anymore. She wanted to escort him a little if she could as well; perhaps see him off as he was kind enough to lead her. "Oh well... I suppose that's because I don't think I could do it on my own and I never really had anyone who could teach me if I wanted." she laughed a little lightly. She always thought it would be fun but didn't want to carelessly get an instrument and mistreat it.
"Mmm. It's good for that, music. Even playing difficult pieces that can be frustrating. Especially when the piano tends to be the most popular instrument." It was a good point though, the only problem was music required someone to play it, and they were a rare occurance, really.
He started to feel awkward again when she kept walking with him, even if the topic was really good for him to work with. "I taught myself." Zaizen took a turn towards one of the larger houses nearby. "Though there is a lot of care to be taken with instruments - especially string ones," he admitted, if only because he knew how expensive they could be to change.
Sakuno slowed her pace and stopped before long remembering he had come to deliver a letter. It would be a bit rude of her to follow him all the way to his delivery, wouldn't it? She continued to listen closely to what he was saying though, though his expression wasn't very animated the way he talked about music was a bit inspiring to her.
"That's so amazing of you, Zaizen. I wish I could hear you play." She had never met any musicians before aside from talking to travelers briefly. Sakuno also admired him for it and that he seemed to be well traveled and a talented mage.
He only just noticed her change of pace, but figured she was just tired instead, really. "I don't... really play in front of people though. It's more for myself than anyone else." More because of how much expression and emotion he put into it. He didn't want anyone to see or well, hear that.
He hadn't really thought about the rest of it though, it was just that when growing up in neutral lands it kind of... helped to have something to go home to that would be peaceful. It had been dangerous there so it only made sense to him.
"Oh, forgive me..." she bowed slightly, hoping she hadn't made him uncomfortable. All the musicians she had met in the past preferred to perform in front of others but she hadn't stopped to consider the opposite. "Then it really is a shame you can't bring it along with you for those times when you like to relax." she frowned a little again, feeling bad for him. She could relate a lot to not wanting to do certain things in front of others. That was why she'd often go off to practice alone when she could. Even with her parents back home after the explosion mishap she had tried not to practice near them or town.
"You don't need to apologise for that." His sighed faintly and stopped at the end of the little street that led directly to the house he had to go to. "I probably would have been better with a flute or something though, they aren't that big or heavy." Maybe one day he'd get to have one of those. Hopefully. It would make his journal more exciting, anyway. It was understandable in her case as to why she wouldn't practice in front of others though, what with all the problems she had with it. "I've gotten into the habit of just humming to make up for it now though."
"I see... well I hope you can get one eventually then." And she really did, traveling so far without having his own personal comfort of music must have been tough. "Thank you for everything again, I hope you have a safe trip home." she smiled brightly and bowed in thanks once more. As if she hadn't said it enough already but she always felt like thanks was just never enough for anyone.
"...You're welcome." It was the first time he hadn't said 'No problem' and as it was slightly more... well insightful he averted his eyes towards the house. "Have a safe journey back when you leave too. And remember what you did this afternoon, alright?" He gave her a half wave then, and started walking down the side street towards the house he was supposed to deliver the letter to.
Where: Eldan
When November 24th
What: Zaizen comes to deliver a letter for his brother and runs into the explosive magic practice of Sakuno.
Rating: G
Comments: Yay for music love~
After traveling for what felt like months (it actually wasn't, but really with the lack of hygiene that came with traveling... well Zaizen felt less than happy) Zaizen finally managed to arrive in Raytin's capital, Eldan earlier than planned. Which also meant though that he could have some time to himself there before going home. He'd also been asked to pick up a few things, which he managed rather quickly. That left him sitting in the city capital, staring up at it rather curiously. He'd been to Risath's capital a few times before and both were rather different... in a way. At least he had some extra money to treat himself to something though, so he ended up picking out a few things to test out different ways of doing potions.
Part of him was rather curious though, because he'd read on the journals that there was some of the mage council and trainees in the capital too that he was half tempted to spy on. He just had no idea where, which was partly why with a glance back into the main part of the city area he started walking to where they were most likely to be around. He still had that letter to deliver anyway...
Sakuno had been exploring a little on her own but held herself back from going too far in case she got lost. Ever since they arrived she hadn't quite been clued in on what was happening but she was more than content not knowing. After all she had traveled all this way and it was all terribly exciting and hard to get used to at the same time. Amongst all the traveling she also hadn't had much time to practice herself as she was in the company of others and her teacher was preoccupied. So perhaps using this extra time for practice would be a better idea.
The braided haired girl made her way around looking for a nice spot where she wouldn't interupt anyone. (Or namely somewhere she could practice alone without having someone in the 'blasting zone.') She wasn't quite yet able to practice more white magic so she would have to strengthen her basics. And of course with that came the hazards of her misfiring which she didn't want to expose anyone but herself to. Now to find somewhere solitary...
After walking for five or so minutes, Zaizen looked back over the hill to check what the scenery was like. It wasn't bad. Of course, when he got to the more scenic area, he saw a girl in the distance walking around as well. He had no idea why she was, and really the only way he could tell it was a girl from that distance was because of her attire. Stepping closer, Zaizen hopped down across a rockier part of the path until he could get closer. He didn't plan on saying anything, but he was curious to know whether she was alright.
Of course, he had no idea she was the girl he'd talked to on the journal at all.
Sakuno let out a small sigh of relief when she finally found a spot far enough away from everyone. It looked like there was no one else around but her after a quick glance around; perfect. Taking a few deep breaths she closed her eyes and concentrated for a few moments. Normally calming herself and not worrying about the end result seemed to work. At least most of the time anyway, it had been a while since she last tried this. Maybe if she started with something small it would be alright.
Opening her eyes again she took a firm stance and took in another deep breath. As she held it she concentrated on the space a few feet in front of her and focused her energy there. A small ignis incantation wouldn't be that disasterous, right..?
Right, sure it wouldn't, Sakuno. Zaizen paused mid-step when he took in her stance then, finally seeing up close what she was doing. He took up a spot nearby, but not close enough to be in the 'danger zone' and sat down on the ground. He pulled his feet closer and pressed his arm over his knee, watching her curiously but he kept out of her line of sight, just in case. He'd seen the routine plenty of times before anyway, and knew a few things himself from teaching himself a thing here or there (under the supervision of her brother, but still) so he figured it'd be useful to take note of what she was doing too.
Of course, it didn't seem to work like that, did it? Zaizen was just lucky he'd kept out of the way, wasn't he?
As if on cue the moment the girl was about to finish letting loose the energy it seemed to go berserk and explode in its tiny controlled radius. Sakuno winced as she lost control and waved away the small amount of smoke that wafted from the miniature explosion. Another failure, and she thought she was doing so well.
The small girl sighed and brushed off the bit of dust that had accumulated on her after the misfire. Oh well, another failure just meant the need for more practice. She should have expected as much with the lack of practice lately and all. After collecting her thoughts she got back into position once more and tried again; with the same results a few more times. It was going to be a tiring day...
After the third or fourth time Zaizen left his belongings on the floor and dusted himself off. "Hey." He was probably going to shock the poor girl to death, but after seeing her try and try and only blow it up... well he felt like he had to say something. He tried to keep out of the way though, just in case she was going to do it again - he didn't really want to get on the receiving end of that misfire after all. "Relax."
He looked absolutely straight faced though, not mocking or anything like he had been with that guy, Shiraishi, on the journals. "Try to close your mind a bit too, you're letting too much into it."
"K-Kya!" Sakuno jumped and misfired again in the space in front of her. Years of mistakes had given her a good reflex of not firing at whoever or whatever surprised her, thankfully. She spun around in a panic to face him, still worried if she'd accidentally hurt them somehow with the failures. "A-Are you alright..?" she gasped, a bit breathless between the surprise and spell.
A shrug was all she got in response as Zaizen thankfully side stepped it. "I'm fine." His lips twitched into a slight smirk though, mainly because of how surprised she was. "So stop panicking and try again." He dug his hands into his pockets, perfectly ready to jump aside even with that. "Take your time, nice and slow." He kept his eyes on her, making sure she actually didn't harm herself.
Plus, by watching he might be able to get an idea as to what was wrong with it all, right? Maybe?
Sakuno wasn't quite sure who he was or why he was helping her, but she appreciated it all the same. She nodded and obediently followed his directions. Whether it would help or not she wasn't sure but she would take his advice. It never hurt to try something new after all.
Positioning herself again she took another deep breath and tried to relax herself. She concentrated like she had before and tried not to think too much. Finally when she released the energy all seemed well, except for the last split second when it backfired once more. At least the explosion was a lot smaller this time, though that could have just been because it wasn't as powerful to begin with.
"S-Sorry..." she found herself apologizing like she had done something wrong. At least if felt like it to her, anyone else probably would have been able to cast it just fine with that advice alone.
"Just... try it again. Don't apologise." Zaizen watched her critically. "Steady yourself and take your time again. You're getting nervous and rushing it." She was doing much better, so obviously that tad bit of advice was going to help in the long run. "Clear your mind of everything except the spell." He rolled his eyes though when she wouldn't be able to see it, though it was more in the 'this is obvious' fashion rather than exasperation.
He took a step closer, tilting his head as he waited for her to try again. "Remember, keep calm." He moved one hand up, touching his hair lightly just as something to do so he wouldn't feel so awkward about it all.
"O-Okay..." she nodded once more and tried again. Truth be told it was all advice she had been given one time or another whether it was from her parents or teacher. She just could never seem to get a grip on things. At least not since that big explosion...
Inhaling deeply again she concentrated and gathered her energy slowly this time. She didn't worry about controlling an explosion but instead of casting the small flame like she intended. Finally, she released her breath and was surprised when she released and saw a small flame. It quickly burnt out but it hadn't blown up in her face for a change. She blinked a few times not quite believing she had managed to do it successfully and not on the hundredth practice try. But it took a lot out of her as she slightly fell to her knees.
Well, at least she'd gotten it right this time? If it wasn't for the fact that her collapsing caught him by surprise he might've been able to stop her hitting the floor. Instead he just moved to next to her. "Hey, you alright?"
He nudged a patch of the singed ground in front of her before balancing to step in front of her and check she hadn't actually passed out or something. Luckily, she'd just gotten tired. Hopefully anyway. "You're awake, right?" He nudged her lightly, but didn't move much closer. Sorry Sakuno, but he'd never been the best at comforting or helping someone other than the way he had sort of just helped.
"I-I'm... fine..." she assured him, still not quite realizing who he was. She had used up a bit more energy than she probably should have. Sakuno was always afraid to release too much energy because of the backfiring so instead she would concentrate it on controlling any explosion that happened. It had just been so long since she hadn't that it was a bit taxing on her even if the end result had been quite weak. How silly for a white mage to have problems with energy, she still had a long way to go. "A-Ano... th-thank you.., um..?" she blinked at him curiously, realizing finally she was being helped by someone she didn't know. Or at least someone she wasn't quite familiar with.
He simply stared at her for that, amused beyond words really. "You'll be fine even if you aren't." He sat back again, kind of wishing he'd brought his stuff over with him. "Zaizen Hikaru." He paused as he stood back up again, heading over to grab his things and set them down closer to her so he wouldn't forget them, but also to pull out a bottle of water and hand it to her. "Though you're supposed to introduce yourself first."
Considering Zaizen had a few of the neutral spells down already through self teaching though, she probably did have a way to go. Even then though, she was being taught magic rather than just trying to teach herself which meant she at least had a way of improving a little quicker than most.
"E-Eh, Zaizen? Then you're from the journals..?" she gasped and immediately found herself blushing slightly embarrassed she hadn't realized. "F-Forgive me, I'm Ryuuzaki Sakuno... th-thank you so much for the help!" Sakuno bowed her head slightly and then noticed the water bottle held out for her. She mumbled another thanks through her blush and accepted it graciously. Thank goodness she hadn't hurt him or anything from the misfires, but how embarrassing for her to be so bad at magic...
"I-I suppose you know what I meant by explosion now, heh..." she laughed lightly at her own expense as she took a small sip of the water.
"I guess so." He didn't really seem to care either way though, and the comment about introducing herself first was really teasing more than anything. Though if she missed that, he wasn't going to point it out. "No problem though." He eyed her. "Does that normally happen all the time then?" He could see why it'd be a problem though, her resolve probably got worse after every attempt.
"You'll be able to get better now though, so don't worry about it." He just shrugged again and sat back down on the grass, taking his other bottle of water and swigging a drink.
She nodded slowly, "Y-Yes... it's happened for as long as I can remember practicing magic." Sakuno adjusted herself into a more comfortable sitting position and took another sip of the water.
"When I was younger I'd always practice with my father, he was a black mage and I admired him a lot. One day I tried to mimic him and that was when the backfiring seemed to have stopped. But then something went wrong and everything got out of control; it was the worst misfire I'd ever had. My father said it could have taken out a few houses if it had been concentrated enough..." she explained a bit sadly. It was the source of a lot of her anxiety since, she was aware of it. Everyone always told her not to worry about it or think too much but it was hard not to think back to it.
"...Ah." Well, that was pretty much all he said for a moment, as he contemplated it. "No wonder you're so nervous then." She looked kind of tiny to carry that kind of ability though, then again, they always say it's the shy, quiet ones that are the ones to look out for. One thing did make him curious though. "And that's why you decided to become a white mage instead?" He pressed his chin into his hand and leaned on it, actually looking bored but he was listening with his full attention. It was always interesting to hear other people's reasoning, even if he never said his own.
"By concentrating on that though, you're making it backfire. You really do need to stop it."
"I-I'm not much of a fighter." she smiled lightly, aware that the power in her explosions probably said otherwise. "And I know how scary magic can be or hurt after all. Mother was always there to help whenever things went wrong and I got hurt and I thought that would be better suited for me in the end since she was a white mage." It probably sounded like a silly or cowardly reason but she did really want to help others with it. She knew she wouldn't be fitted well for black magic even if she did manage to overcome her slight problem.
"I-I know... it's hard and I try to... I-It helps knowing that white magic doesn't quite explode on me, heh." she laughed lightly again, still a bit embarrassed about it. He was probably a lot better of a mage than she was so no doubt it all seemed a bit silly to her that she was so behind even in the basics.
"I can tell." He said it simply, though it really wasn't supposed to sound like the insult that it probably did. He paused then and stared ahead of them instead of it her, thinking it over. In some ways it made him wonder if he really knew what he was getting himself in for... in some ways he just didn't care. He pretty much knew he'd feel useless if he went on that path so... black magic it was.
"Well you got it right a few moments ago. So obviously you can do it." He took another swig of water only to flop back onto the grass then, taking a well deserved break. "You just need to start believing it."
She took no offense to his comment, as it was true either way; she had been the one to say it in the first place. Sakuno simply smiled, she appreciated his words and encouragement whether he meant it or not.
"I-I suppose I did, heh." she paused and took another sip of the water as she glanced down at him slightly. "I guess... between the mishaps and everything I'm not so sure how useful a white mage I'll be. But I don't want to give up either." the small girl smiled and glanced toward the sky.
Exactly. Plus, sometimes being honest about things worked out much better than trying to hide things or give people false hope. That and she had already made her decision anyway... just like he'd made his.
"You need to make sure your hands don't shake at all too, that probably doesn't help. One step at a time though." He shut his eyes then, just relaxing in the sun as he listened to her talk. "In the end, you'll be as useful as you let yourself be. If you keep at it, it'll work out." Hard work and perseverance, was what it took in the end.
"A-Ah... yes, I'll try harder the next time." she said but more to encourage herself than to him. If there was one thing Sakuno was well practiced in it was perseverance; even if she didn't exactly improve much. She drank from the bottle again and then realized they had been talking of nothing but her.
"A-Ano..." she began hoping to change the subject so as not to seem to rude. "How come you're here in Eldan, Zaizen?"
"Good." He wasn't that brilliant at encouraging people, so it was probably a good thing she was encouraging herself. "You'll get the hang of it eventually." She probably would too, it was probably only that one thing she needed to get past then she would be fine. That and stamina, maybe.
"Ah..." He opened his eyes to glance at her then, suddenly going uncomfortable as the topic switched to him. "I'm just delivering a letter for my brother. Nothing too important."
"Oh, I see. That's very nice of you to do that for your brother." she smiled, not quite knowing any better. She was always a little envious of those with siblings. It must have been nice; or so she thought growing up as an only child in such a small town.
That was easy for her to think... she didn't have a brother who was actually over eighty years older than her with a five year old son of his own. Zaizen kept his face straight, but he only nodded for a moment. "It's easier than arguing with him about it. Also means I don't have to babysit, so."
"Arguing..?" It wasn't as if she meant to pry but she just didn't quite realize that normally siblings did that, no matter what age. She had never had a rebellious thought in her little mind growing up so far so it was only natural. Sakuno was quite the naive small town mage, indeed.
She really was, and it probably didn't help that Zaizen brushed it off with a shrug. "Well if I say no he'll get angry, right?" He didn't mention anything about his rebellious activities (though really, the home made piercings in his ears said enough for that) nor did he mention why he was staying with his brother instead of his parents in the first place.
Instead he just pushed himself into a sitting position and let his hands hold him upright behind him, leaning back on them.
Sakuno tilted her head curiously. She had had indeed picked up that he was living with his brother and noticed the strange piercings but who was she to call attention to it in any way.
"I-I suppose so..." she wasn't sure if it was rude of her to ask any more questions really. She fiddled with the bottle a little in her hands idly as she sat there.
"Mmm," the soft noise was the only confirmation Sakuno received really, as a moment later he stood back up again, making sure to dust himself down properly. "Do you need any help getting back to where you're staying?" He wasn't sure how tired that spell had made her, but it had been enough to make her collapse. Either way he didn't think she should really try practising much more without someone to help her back if that was what she wanted to do.
"Well I did want to practice more... but I guess any more would be silly." she laughed lightly, glancing down at her legs. She was used to being tired from training but was careful never to collapse in front of anyone. Chances were if she collapsed once in a day she would again so it was probably best to stop for the day. "I suppose I should head back, I-... I think I should be okay on my own..." Sakuno trailed off as tried to get to her feet. She was a bit wobbly when getting up but when she stood back up straight enough.
"Practise makes perfect, sure, but health is more important. You should know that, being a white mage." He pulled his things back on again, intending to start walking with or without her. "I'm heading in that direction either way." That was sort of him offering for her to walk with him if she was heading that way too. It wasn't too far from the castle grounds, and he was supposed to give the letter to someone who lived or worked near there.
That was quite true; if there was one thing she still needed to learn it was taking care of herself too. Of course she didn't work herself until she was ragged but she did overdo it every now and then without thinking. She would need to learn to control herself; both magic and for her health's sake.
Taking the subtle hint she followed after him. Sakuno had a little habit of getting lost as well so she was very thankful to have someone to slightly guide her back. "Thank you again for everything." she couldn't help saying as she walked a little behind him.
Adjusting his bag Zaizen headed back for the main path that would head in the direction he need. "No problem." He glanced over his shoulder to double check she was following him. "If you need another nudge just let me know." He had no idea about her ability to get herself lost though, so it was probably lucky on her part that he mentioned that he was walking that way.
He did slow down slightly though so the poor girl wouldn't get separated, especially since he'd invited her along to begin with. More because it would be boring to walk the distance on his own. He really missed music, actually. It was a shame it wasn't portable, at least then he wouldn't have to worry about going crazy from having nothing to listen to for days on end.
"That would be lovely." she smiled in gratitude, whether he knew just how much help he had been to her all day or not. She took notice of the fact it became a bit easier to keep up with him, or maybe she was just more tired than she thought. Either way it was a pleasant walk; a lot more pleasant than it would have been for her getting lost.
"Mmm." There was a tiny, tiny smile on his lips as he quickened his pace for a moment, mainly because he was proud of himself more than anything. He was hardly much either, yet still he'd helped a little. Nothing like a tiny ego boost. He did hum a little though when the conversation died out again though, more to try and keep some for of entertainment as they neared his exit.
"Do you like music, Zaizen..?" she couldn't help asking when she overheard him humming a tune she was unfamiliar with. Well... she wasn't familiar with many tunes, just whatever travelers played in passing or traditionally back home. She didn't have much talent with music but she did enjoy listening to it. It was kind of a magic all its own to her.
"Yeah." Any other person would have looked sheepish at that, but Zaizen's expression had gone back to it's blank state again and didn't change again. "I play, back home. Obviously couldn't bring it with me though as it's too big and heavy... I miss it already though." It helped calm him more than anything, and it was the rare way that he could actually show his emotions really, most of the time. There were slight cases where something other than a bored, cocky or smug expression was in place. "you?"
"Oh, I think it's wonderful." she lit up again with her usual smile. She didn't really take much notice in his expression but instead concentrated more on the conversations. People were normally different from their appearances anyway. "I don't think I could ever play anything, but I love to listen to it when I can." She looked up to him and frowned ever so slightly, feeling a bit badly for him. "I'm sorry you couldn't bring it with you... it sounds like you really enjoy playing." She couldn't begin to wrap her mind around playing it, she had a bad enough time with magic. But it must have been quite fun to, that much she was positive of.
"You do?" Her saying that made him at least warm up to her a little. Music was pretty much... well possibly more to him than using magic ever would be. It was a shame he had no idea how to combine the two, really. One day, maybe. "It's calming, so I tend to use it to relax, especially at the end of a long day." He slowed when they neared a fork in the road, mostly to check and see whether she was leaving yet - apparently not though. "Why do you think you wouldn't be able to though?"
"Yes, that's it exactly." she smiled once more. Maybe if she was as at peace when listening to music as she was with magic she would improve faster or get over her anxiety. But it wasn't as if she could have someone there playing music for her all the time. That would be quite comforting though.
She continued to follow along as she really only needed to be back in the area of the castle. Whether she entered or was on the outskirts at least she couldn't get too lost anymore. She wanted to escort him a little if she could as well; perhaps see him off as he was kind enough to lead her. "Oh well... I suppose that's because I don't think I could do it on my own and I never really had anyone who could teach me if I wanted." she laughed a little lightly. She always thought it would be fun but didn't want to carelessly get an instrument and mistreat it.
"Mmm. It's good for that, music. Even playing difficult pieces that can be frustrating. Especially when the piano tends to be the most popular instrument." It was a good point though, the only problem was music required someone to play it, and they were a rare occurance, really.
He started to feel awkward again when she kept walking with him, even if the topic was really good for him to work with. "I taught myself." Zaizen took a turn towards one of the larger houses nearby. "Though there is a lot of care to be taken with instruments - especially string ones," he admitted, if only because he knew how expensive they could be to change.
Sakuno slowed her pace and stopped before long remembering he had come to deliver a letter. It would be a bit rude of her to follow him all the way to his delivery, wouldn't it? She continued to listen closely to what he was saying though, though his expression wasn't very animated the way he talked about music was a bit inspiring to her.
"That's so amazing of you, Zaizen. I wish I could hear you play." She had never met any musicians before aside from talking to travelers briefly. Sakuno also admired him for it and that he seemed to be well traveled and a talented mage.
He only just noticed her change of pace, but figured she was just tired instead, really. "I don't... really play in front of people though. It's more for myself than anyone else." More because of how much expression and emotion he put into it. He didn't want anyone to see or well, hear that.
He hadn't really thought about the rest of it though, it was just that when growing up in neutral lands it kind of... helped to have something to go home to that would be peaceful. It had been dangerous there so it only made sense to him.
"Oh, forgive me..." she bowed slightly, hoping she hadn't made him uncomfortable. All the musicians she had met in the past preferred to perform in front of others but she hadn't stopped to consider the opposite. "Then it really is a shame you can't bring it along with you for those times when you like to relax." she frowned a little again, feeling bad for him. She could relate a lot to not wanting to do certain things in front of others. That was why she'd often go off to practice alone when she could. Even with her parents back home after the explosion mishap she had tried not to practice near them or town.
"You don't need to apologise for that." His sighed faintly and stopped at the end of the little street that led directly to the house he had to go to. "I probably would have been better with a flute or something though, they aren't that big or heavy." Maybe one day he'd get to have one of those. Hopefully. It would make his journal more exciting, anyway. It was understandable in her case as to why she wouldn't practice in front of others though, what with all the problems she had with it. "I've gotten into the habit of just humming to make up for it now though."
"I see... well I hope you can get one eventually then." And she really did, traveling so far without having his own personal comfort of music must have been tough. "Thank you for everything again, I hope you have a safe trip home." she smiled brightly and bowed in thanks once more. As if she hadn't said it enough already but she always felt like thanks was just never enough for anyone.
"...You're welcome." It was the first time he hadn't said 'No problem' and as it was slightly more... well insightful he averted his eyes towards the house. "Have a safe journey back when you leave too. And remember what you did this afternoon, alright?" He gave her a half wave then, and started walking down the side street towards the house he was supposed to deliver the letter to.