Ingrid
*`Archivum Academiae Astra Cantum`* — the *Grand Archive of the Academy* — is perhaps the greatest repository for magical information currently in existence. It consists of a number of subsects each tended by a special group of faculty staff-members known as *Archivists,* Each of whom prudently tend to and protect the contents of the Archive.

The Archive is an extensive facility with multiple subsectors. The building exhibits complex enchantments for protection, preservation, and security throughout. Nearly any book on the history or function of magic can be found here, kept safe within the Archive.

Astra cantum quest astra cantum quest
Roberto
``". . .Mmhm. Out already, huh?"``

Seated with her knee's clumped together beneath the benches of the illustrious Astra Cantum academy campus was an attending female student of three years, not doing what would one call school friendly activity. The fading crackle of the joint between her pink-colored fingertips, the otherwise potent stench of Marijuana concealed by an even stronger oceanic scent, the wilting smoke surrounding her, and her coffee eyes, now seas of red, staring lastingly at the deceased blunt. It turns out she hadn't bought enough for today's particular demand, and that left her slightly but not extraordinarily disappointed. 

Nano sighed mildly, twisting the dead joint in her right hand around as it gradually morphed into a liquidized substance— *Water*, to be exact, of which she then vanished by closing her hands into a grasp. She pulled both her arms back and stretched them out, realizing she probably could've and would've picked a better spot to secretly smoke hadn't she needed a quickie badly, one that preferably wasn't as tight. This was a frequent habit of hers, obviously, which meant that she knew better spots than this around here. Anyway, it was a pretty nice day out, right? Could go for a walk, maybe, exercise her limbs, buy some extra bud. She planted her arms against the concrete floor, pushing her leggings out further.

_ _
It was one of those *Rare* Days where she actually had nothing to do whatsoever. No clan stuff, no assemblies or training. Just a plain old school day and winding down afterwards, perhaps a little too much. To be honest, it was weird, because for about the last fifteen or so years of her life, her daily endeavors were marked by preoccupation and unrelenting responsibility, not that she ever complained about the workload. Freedom was not an affordable expense for the youngest leader of the Yuen Clan in it's history, was it? Of course, there was still time to do *This*, but it was just about the usual exception aside from, well, that other pleasure. Sneaking around like this wasn't ideal, but what could she do? Rules are sacred, but she needed function somehow. Incidentally, even when she wasn't overtly busy, she found ways to be so anyhow. Just felt right.

**``BEEP.``**

*``Oh-ho?``* A curious look emerged across Nano's face as she reached into her black academy pocket square, unbuttoning and pulling out a blue-cased iPhone 37. She scrolled through her apps, finding iMessage. It was an *SOS* Notification from. . . Luca. An archive-keeper, right? An apprentice. He was asking for help about a 'very delicate matter' with a nice incentive. She actually already had an admission pass, though. Luca's messages were a different color so as to indicate that he was using an Adler Energy cell. To be clear, she actually wanted to buy one herself because its cheaper and looks better— but *Jenova* Keep bugging her about it, so she bought the more socially acceptable one. Brat.

_ _
In any case, Nano briefly exited and scrolled to her notes app. She double-checked to confirm that her schedule was *Truly* Clear, because again, it was and has been a rarity. Then, she looked up and thought about it things for a quickly-passing moment. Talking about occupying herself when she had nothing to do, this seemed like an awfully convenient chance to do exactly that. Helping others who were in need wasn't much of a debate in her mind, regardless of an offered reward— it was in her nature and apart of her core values beyond the simple fact that improving the days of others felt good. Her only contemplation concerned a physical issue that commonly plagued her. 

Nano looked back down at her cell, tapping on the Camera app and hitting the reverse option in order to look at herself, specifically her irises. *``Way too red.``* She really had to learn that eye-color spell at some point, huh? For now, though, she ran her fingers through her presently long brown hair, until discovering a pair of black square shades on the very top of her scalp She lightly pushed them downwards so as to cover her eyes, and that seemed to work it out. Just hope Nova doesn't come by and pull them off again. That almost got ugly.

Nano pocketed her phone, and then slowly stood herself up, stretching out a little bit more. Seems like a good day for some errands, doesn't it? Should be fun. She hadn't to Luca in a while— not much at all, actually, and maybe Kiyo would also stop by. If he asked about the sunglasses, she had an excuse ready that he probably wouldn't believe. 

*``Some walking later. . .``*

The unlocked door of the academy archive could be heard slowly creaking open, followed by an obligatory pair of knocks against the building wall from the young woman who entered. ``"Heyy. Luca, you in here? I saw the text you sent out, decided to drop by."`` An informal, cooled and friendly tone and greeting uttered from Nano, popping her glasses-covered head in from the outside, adjusting them so as to make sure they were on properly. Naturally, she'd taken the liberty of surrounding herself in that same oceanic, pleasant beach-like aroma that was distinct with her arrival, and generally speaking, she didn't seem impaired.
Concetta
An average day at best, with one impaired student lackadaisically journeying her way towards the student library, and an anxious staff member fidgeting in response to his clumsy loss of books, none of those adjectives describe a rather specific, hardworking academy student using his valuable time routinely at the gym, as per usual right? It was indeed a decent, crisp day with a soft breeze, definitely fitting for a jog or sizable run, but Kiyo wasn't really all for that today. He also wasn't for his train of crucial thought regarding the harsh pressure of weights being lifted suddenly snapping due to his workout playlist being abruptly paused following the actions of a new text. It better not be Nano again, that's for sure. The countless times he'd lay flat against the bench, incredibly deep in focus, with a hefty bar being lifted above him carrying tons of pure weight, before he'd nearly get his head completely crushed by said weights due to a sudden text regarding a request to smoke, or something much more blunt in nature delivered in text form was frankly a nuisance. Kiyo would quietly pause, his music remaining entirely silent as he settled the weights onto the metal rack, sitting upwards on the bench as he dug into his shorts pocket, and proceed in opening his messages.

Ah, well that was certainly not to be expected.

Rubbing his drenched forehead with his own tank-top as he continued to read the text, he found himself in a place of small conflict. No way Nano cared enough about some pitiful staff member and his books to be part of this, and no way he'd care either... But the intense bench pressing *Was* Getting rather distasteful for today, as he'd been continuously lifting for the last four hours, and he had no outstanding assignments to be completed and such, so... What better way did he have to spend his time? It's not like there'd be familiar faces around, Nano likely enjoying a blunt, and Nova definitely was training in some form to become stronger, similar to Kiyo. What did books really have to do with physical strength? It was also a decent path for Kiyo himself to appear more considerate, considering his blunt personality as of late...

He'd shove his phone back within his pocket and wipe down the gym equipment he just finished utilizing, before walking out and allowing the gym doors to shut behind him. Entering the library, his appearance contrasted his rather sweaty one when located in the gym, as in he appeared more so presentable. He definitely showered, with his dark hair down and semi-wet, and instead of damp, light clothes, he adorned casual clothing like a black sweater and grey sweatpants with slides as shoes. `"Hey, heard you were missing so—"`

You got to be fucking kidding me. Why the fuck is she here?

`"... Missing some books."`
Gary
Seated on a cushioned chair at the center of the Archive's lobby, Luca remained seated, leaning strongly forward, his hands tented as he stared with an intensely furrowed brow toward the door. The moment it opened, he did not rise, but merely flinched, his eyes closing tight as he gave a deep breath out.

*"Ah..."*
"Y..*Yuen,* Right...?"
"G-good evening..."

Luca adjusted his glasses, lifting slightly from his inclined sitting position. The implicit anguish on his face did not depart as he attempted to put on a more kindly, soft disposition—one befitting a librarian. Despite how infrequently he saw her, Hanano's face was one just familiar enough that he could place it against a name. He would give her the courtesy of a proper greeting... Or, at the very least, attempt to. The stress that weighed on his shoulders was impossible to overlook. 

He took a deep, but quick breath.
"Listen, this is a little bit of a sensitive matter, so—"

Kiyo's entry eluded any initial reaction from Luca, as he simply stared somewhat blank-eyed toward the man. The latter half of Kiyo's sentence, though stalled, cut to the heart of the matter.

*"**Uh—!*** Please... Step in, first...

He pressed his forehead pressed against his palm.

"I'll be straight with you. I made a terrible mistake. I need—*Hm*—I-I'd appreciate if you kept this... Discreet."
"It could..."

...He paused, rubbing the side of his head. He sat upright as he faced the two, a more confessing mood surfacing emerging from his countenance.

*"It could cost me my position."*
"Let's... Just sit together first, all-right?"

He motioned with a slight sigh toward the other chairs at the center of the lobby.
Roberto
Nano began to approach the seated Luca, a little surprised to discover that he knew her by surname, but then turned her head back to the instantly recognizable voice of her somewhat one-sided friend, Kiyo, noting the sudden pause between his words in reaction to seeing her. Freshly showered, probably just came back from a grueling workout regiment as he normally does in the academy gym. An errand like this didn't particularly seem up his alley, buuut maybe, like her, he had nothing better to do, excluding the inclination to help others. Being a good samaritan isn't really his shtick or in his nature from what she knew about the real him, unless he just wanted the reward. Anyway, it's all good; she couldn't think of many people better to lend a helping hand, regardless of intent or reasoning. Plus, she could mess with him while looking for the books. That was how they communicated— how *She* Communicated. Sometimes, she did it because she wanted him to be more like himself instead of what he pretends to be. Other times, it was to brighten his day without his bestie present. Always the subtle pessimist, Kiyo.

``"Ohh? Look who it is, Mr. Gym Rat himself. How was your workout? Break any records?"`` Nano teased as she faced the entering Kiyo momentarily with a light grin, gently clapping her right palm against her left fist so as to signify a punch, otherwise a symbol of training. Not that what she said was incorrect regarding her friend, but it was nonetheless worded playfully. A world where friends can work together for a good cause, even if a small one, is a better one for all those involved. Everyone's happier one way or another.

_ _
That being said, it was become more evident how important and delicate this was to the person in need. Nano turned back around with an off-guard look to the clearly stressed and highly anxious Luca based on his overall disposition— and while he did say he was desperate earlier via text, him specifically mentioning that this dilemma of his could cause him to lose his *Job* Raised an eyebrow of hers, one of shifting concern. Was it really that awful what he'd done?

_ _
Perhaps she shouldn't be too off task in that case, not that it was habitual for her to do so— it was the opposite, actually. There was more riding on this then previously stated, and she was here to offer her services. A little ribbing here and there of her friend was practically unavoidable as any other vice, but the priority was to do whatever Luca asked of them. It's not like she intended to abandon what was most important on behalf of someone else in the slightest regardless of who was nearby, nor could such ever be the case given her demanding personal responsibilities, but even still. It was unfair to have someone lose their income over a tiny hiccup, albeit that wasn't exactly how he described it. Couldn't be that bad, right?

``"Sure. I won't say a word, promise. Kiyo won't either. Let's sit down, figure things out."`` Nano nodded respectfully out of acknowledgement for Luca's troubled situation, lifting her right hand up and slowly rolling her finger across her pink lips, essentially making a casual 'mouth sealed' motion toward him, which she really did mean. She reapproached Luca, finding a seat within the number of chairs at the center of the lobby, pushing up her sunglasses slightly. She did hope that others would come by at some point seeing as how much was at stake for the young apprentice. The more, the better, but either way, she'd do her best to help, and she adamantly believed Kiyo would as well. She also wanted to suggest he take a breather given his current state, but felt that to be a little inconsiderate for now. If anyone knew how much worse stress made things, it was her. Speaking of which, and there was no need to mention this, but functioning while intoxicated was a non-issue for her at this point. Most people don't notice.
Ronnie
The doors to the archive would open once more- this time revealing someone... Rather out of breath. He'd been practically across campus when he got the notification, but the prospect of getting a full-access pass for an entire *Month* Had urged him to move rather quickly. Well- that and the urgency of the message, of course. It had honestly taken quite a bit of restraint to not throw the door open when he arrived. Not that he probably could, anyway- they were rather heavy, after all. 

But all the same, he had arrived. He took a moment to catch his breath, giving a weak wave to the others present as he did so. Seems they'd either been closer or... Cared less. Or were just *Better* Than him, which was equally likely- this was Astra Cantum, after all. Mobility through magic must be practically second nature for some of the people here. Stars, he couldn't wait to learn some of that...

He straightened up once he'd caught his breath somewhat. `"I'm... Here to help."` He was still breathing a bit heavier than usual but- felt he should at least *Say* Something. Especially given there were two other students already here. People he didn't... Recognize, but felt like he should. Always an uncomfortable feeling, that one— one he'd have to ignore for now.

The archive needed help, and he was here to help. However he could.
Ingrid
Dear Roleplayers,
I would like to make a formal request for a post in the Grand Archive of the Academy.
If you would also, please look at the attached file to this message.
Thanks & With High Hopes,
Exousian
Charles
Alexis Ubersich was the kind of person that most people on campus were aware of but very few people actually knew much about, she had spent almost her entire life in the Academy, "Adopted" By a professor, "Awarded" A scholarship at 15 and graduated top of her class at 19, giving an infamously short and unenthusiastic valedictory before finally being employed by the university as a "Researcher" Which was really just as excuse for the powers that be to keep her close, an idea she resented but nevertheless allowed as it granted her strategic access to the the campus.

Today was a slow day, most of them were slow days really, unless someone was getting murdered which happened more often than the government liked to admit. So when came the call for help with a """Delicate matter""" She decided that it was probably less boring than her "Research".

Alexis entered the library holding a half eaten Pain Au Chocolat in 1 hand and her phone in the other, she was dressed down for the approaching summer, forgoing the trench coat she normally wore overtop her dress shirt, with a shorter skirt than typical.
Alexis didn't bother with introducing herself, or even saying a single word, she approached the small group, stowed her phone into one of her pockets, and continued eating her Pain Au Chocolat.

Her uncanny glowing eyes scanned across the group as she made note of who had shown up, the apprentice archivist of course, who was acting rather irrationally for someone who was meant to be a beacon of learning and protector of knowledge.
One student who had clearly been smoking earlier judging by the smell, a practice Alexis particularly despised, not for any moral reason but simple because it annoyed her, leaving her with an immediate poor impression.
Another who failed to leave any impactful impression.
And a third who seemed to have just ran a marathon, leaving a less than stellar first impression but present company considered, could have been far worse.
Marvel
***```Inside Jenova's dorm...```***

Laying upon the bed to the back corner of the room was Jenova, sprawled out and in deep slumber. He had stayed up late into last night, rewatching all of book one of his favorite show, Avatar. Sunlight could be seen breaking through the room's slightly parted curtains, the sounds of distant birds chirping through his cracked window. Slowly, his eyelids parted as he sat up in bed, wearing a white t-shirt and olive green sweats; the top cover of his bed fell from his shoulders as he rapidly blinked his eyes. With a lengthy stretch, the white-haired man adjusted his pillow before planting his head straight back into it. He still had some time before he had to wake up after all... Probably. And so, he began to drift off to sleep once more.







Jenova's silenced phone began to vibrate upon his bedside desk before eventually falling to the floor with a loud thud. A long sigh emitted from the young student as he maneuvered himself closer to the edge of his bed, reaching down with his right arm and grabbing his phone. Jenova leaned over the edge of the bed, turning the alarm on his phone off and noticing a message on his phone. He squinted his eyes at the bluelight screen, reading the message.

_`...A one-month full-access admission slip to the Archive...? I don't really visit the Archive ever... But it is something to do. Maybe Kiyo will be there. Beats sleeping all day I suppose.`_

_ _
Yet again, the young man would sit up in bed, setting his phone down as he let out a yawn and swung his feet over the side of his bed. Before anything though, he still had his morning ritual to do—proceeding to open his mini fridge and grab a soda straight out of bed. With a crack, the tab of the soda was pulled up, Jenova taking a swig of the can. Eventually, the mage would finish the beverage, entering his bathroom where he would shower and brush his teeth; he would also run a slight amount of gel through his snow-white hair, giving it a more messy appearance. He cared a great deal about how he presented himself to others, maneuvering his head in various directions whilst looking in the mirror.

Eventually, he would finally exit the bathroom, wearing a black t-shirt with loose fitting, grey pants—a relatively mundane look, but such was the day. It had been around 35 minutes since he had woken up, others likely having already arrived at the Archive. It would be in his best interest to get a move on and start heading over, buuuut... He hadn't had anything to eat yet. A slight detour couldn't hurt, right?

Jenova left his room, shutting the door behind him as he roamed the halls of the dormitory. His first stop before heading to the Archive would be the cafeteria of Astra Cantum. Amidst his walk, a number of faces would stop and greet the prodigal mage, Jenova being quite well known throughout the academy; his popularity was unsurprising though, the combination of his appearance and abilities making him an oddity amongst others. He wasn't against his popularity however—quite the opposite in fact. The young man relished the attention, albeit finding it slightly annoying at times.

_ _
After many interruptions, Jenova would reach the cafeteria, ordering a simple breakfast of fried eggs, buttered toast, and a water. Once he got his food, he would end up sitting alone, attempting to avoid any more distractions and focus on eating. Either way—many of the students in the cafeteria were just strangers to him, although some attempted to appear as friends. Finishing his food rather quickly, the young man checked his phone, realizing another thirty minutes had passed during his walk and meal. With how much time had passed, would he even be needed anymore? A number of people had probably already shown up after all. He stood from his table, deciding that it couldn't hurt to check.

Throwing his empty plate amidst the other trays, he left the cafeteria, at last making his way to the Archive. Yet again would he be interrupted a few times on the way to the building, but despite all odds... The doors of the Archive would swing open again.

`"Heard some books were missing—am I late to the party?"` Jenova entered the Archive, boisterously announcing his presence, `"Oh—shoot... Still a library."` He lowered his voice after his initial statement, respecting the confines of the Archive. With a quick gaze, he would notice Hanano and Kiyo amidst the group, his assumption that the latter would be here proving true; Nano was certainly unexpected though. Silently, the young mage took a seat amongst the others, awaiting Luca to enlighten him on the situation.
Jasmin
Bros still asleep on a friday evening littearlly me
Gary
This sect of the Archive typically did not see so many guests simultaneously present. Luca would have seen this gathering of people for the purpose of his assistance as a sweeter thing in a more sober, stable state of mind. But, given the circumstances, it seemed hard for him to feel anything but an unhealthy wave of anxiety: his mind crawled with the bleak possibilities of what could and would come next.

*Sigh*

Beyond the glint of the golden evening light glinting across the surface of his glasses, Luca's brown eyes stared slowly, attentively, as he occupied a more pragmatic state of mind.

"I'll make this explanation. . .Thorough, but quick."

He adjusted his glasses, and sat upright.

"Have any of you heard of the **`Blue Moon`** System?"

The *Blue Moon Maxim.* It was a concept that few students of *Astra Cantum* Understood, but most to all had glanced upon in passing at some point in time. It was referenced only in its relation to something else; its existence was isolated to how it effected some other principle, some other system, or some manner of life in the *Academy,* And was often made to seem like some absolute, abstruse concept that arched over the existence of the Academy as a whole, yet was never elaborated on beyond its shallowest depth. Omnipresent yet esoteric, information on it was practically everywhere yet still exceedingly scarce — though the determined and dedicated few whose interest it truly piqued may have dug deep enough to have already heard what was about to follow from Luca's mouth.
_ _

"Most who know of it think of it as the 'passive' barrier that safeguards the Academy — the parallel to the 'active' barrier that is the **`Crimson Moon`**.
"But we Archivists have been taught to think of it differently."

Luca withdrew a small, platinum talisman from his pocket, slanting it within his grasp—examining it. It depicted a particular symbol and emanated a potent, though subtle magical enchantment.

"It is... The magic system that regulates the __*'rules'*__ of the Academy."
"It dictates the control of mana upon Academy grounds. It brings order to anything that may bring it ruin, snuffing the deleterious and disentangling the chaotic..."
"...And determines who may access certain facilities."
"The nexus of the enchantment—*The heart of the Academy itself, **Cor Loci***—, the great analēmma, **Lunae Retinaculum**, the depths of Medeian civilization beneath the latter—"

He held forward the talisman, presenting it to those standing before him. Engraved into it was a complex series of enchantments that interacted with this very system that he spoke of—it was a type of key that dictated a lesser set of rules derivative from the greater Maxim that bound the Academy.

"—And even this very Archive: all of these are locations, to some degree, controlled or restricted by the **`Blue Moon`** System."

 As he manipulated the curio with his fingertips, the very atmosphere began to shift: the air tightened, quieting, as the mana in the realm of spirits about the gathered guests began to take on unique, selective properties. It became quickly clear that the entire world around them was under a spell, and not one that Luca had just cast — one that had long existed, and that he simply made observable.
_ _

"...Ahm," He shook his head, dispelling the small tangent he had gone on. "This all is just to explain to you the weight of the matter at hand."
"I... Have made the greatest error an Archivist can. I—..." His gaze shifted away.
"I gave a series of books to a group of students. I—I was careless," Again, he delayed in disclosing his failure; the key piece of this explanation...
"At the time, I wasn't aware of how the information was stored. To—"

"—no..."
"It was my fault entirely. I made a decision off of clouded judgment."
"Amidst the series of books I loaned was a hidden copy of the *Blue Moon Maxim.* A sort of keystone—the model upon which the System functions. It is a blueprint that dictates all of its functions, inside and out."
"...Something nobody untrustworthy should *Ever* Have access to."

Now Luca gathered his composure and his rationality, and, folding his hands together, lifted his head, the off-sheen of the light upon his glasses dissipating, revealing his determined gaze.

"I need you to return it to me. By *Any means necessary.*"
Marvel
Jenova gave a series of nods throughout Luca's description of the Blue Moon System, mixed with occasional "Mhm"'s; it was clear the young man was paying very little attention to the archivist's description of the system, but such could've been expected of him. It wasn't like him to care too much about the finer details of things that didn't interest him. He at least understood that it was of great importance based on the archivist's distraught tone of voice. It almost felt as though he was stuck in a lecture, Jenova waiting with bated breath for Luca's spiel to end. Luca's usage of the strange trinket may have been what kept the mage awake at all, him taking _some_ interest in its complex magic.

Luckily, Luca's speech came to an end before Jenova was able to drift off. His interest piqued once more, awaiting Luca to _finally_ get to the point; at least his dramatization of the situation was somewhat comedic to Jenova, Luca's various gestures and delays getting a light smirk out of the mage. With Luca's rather detailed explanation of the situation concluding, Jenova would be the first to speak on the matter despite his late arrival.

`"Sooooo... You want us to go on a scavenger hunt... With no clues? Lotta people visit the Archive—too many for us to narrow down without any sort of info. Surely you must have some memory of at least the appearance of who you loaned those books to? Although... I'd guess a lotta people come here taking out books, huh?"`

 Jenova quickly backtracked on his own inquiry, realizing that Luca may not even remember the specific individual he unknowingly loaned the copy of the book to. 

`"...Think taking a look at the records might help? Maybe jog your memory by looking at what books were loaned and narrowing it down based on that? Sounds kinda dumb, but who knows—maybe you can look at the last few people you loaned books to before the Blue Moon Maxim went missing."`
Roberto
As Nano heard approaching footsteps behind her, she titled her head backwards, slightly pushing her neck against the brim of the seat so as to direct her shade-guarded gaze at the newcomers behind her sunglasses. The first was a student who seemed like he rushed to get here, but still greeted everyone and stated that he was here to offer his support, naturally. Following up was Alexis— most people around the academy know who she is by name and reputation, though Yuen herself knew more then that. She was eating a snack and carrying her phone around, and she wasn't wearing a Cantum uniform, which was fine. She made no effort to introduce herself, probably because people know already know who she is. Her luminescent eyes were pretty. One person ran here, and the other was lauded for being a high status member of the academy. That's about as good and motivated as help as Luca could get on short notice, no? Good thing she used the ocean-scent trick.

``"Yo."`` Nano lifted her right arm up and gave a moderate wave to the both of them, but her brown irises refocused onto someone familiar: *Jenova* Was here, of all people. Similar to Kiyo, this initially did not seem at all like something he would be interested in, but then again, he does like to keep busy, kind of like herself, actually. When he was around, Kiyo bared even less of that doom and gloom that he attempted to keep at a minimum— his other half, if you will. Her grin subconsciously increased in slights upon seeing her other friend, providing him a different comment then the two strangers. ``"Mmm? I didn't think you'd be into this kinda thing, Jenova. Slow day?"`` She inquired, somewhat teasing but also genuinely interested. It was more or less the same deal for her, after all, but she was a little bit more aware of the seriousness of the situation, likely.

Then, Luca began to go on his spiel no less anxious then he was before, which caught Nano's undivided attention as she rolled her head back up to face the Apprentice, flatly placing both arms atop her leggings. The Blue Moon System: a non-active barrier that guards the academy in tandem with the Crimson Moon System. Between access to some privileged information and taking her studying rather seriously, she knew a little more about it then the average student, albeit it was admittedly complex to understand. Luca did a good job of simplifying and confirming what she understood— whilst also going into the dynamic of what other purpose it served in regulating academy mana, accompanied by various other uniquely titled concepts. She did well to observe the platinum-colored, enchanted talisman, leaning in slightly, an expression of amazement forming on her face. To see something like that so up close was remarkable, wasn't it? She could feel the subtle, yet powerful magic beaming off its archaic surface. She wanted to make a comment, but opposed interrupting him. Don't wanna lose focus.

Nano continued to listen intently aside from the occasional internal sigh at Jenova's series of dismissive 'mhms', noting the shifting atmosphere as highlighted by Luca, somewhat mesmerized by the concept. The apprentice then concluded that the ultimate issue was that he accidentally loaned the Blue Moon Maxim, the keystone and blueprinted copy, to some students within a number of books he loaned off. This underlined what was at stake, especially if the students so happened to realize what they had, and even worse, use it for unsavory purposes. The anxiety that consumed his expression shifted into a look of determination. He needed it back, by 'any means necessary'. The memo was clear.
Ronnie
Deimos' attention had immediately sharpened when Luca began speaking again. The *Blue Moon* System. One he'd heard about- and tried to read about... But couldn't seem to get his hands on anything that actually explained it. Seems he must've just not been looking in the right place. Accidentally loaning out a copy of the Maxim seemed- bad. His skin crawled slightly at the thought of someone other than a student getting their hands on it. Hell, even the idea of *Some* Students having access to it was awful on its own. But... Therein came a dilemma, for him.

This was clearly an issue that should be handled by people with- far more authority than just the first few students to reach the archive. Professors, public safety staff... People who were *Trained* In doing the type of investigating and recovery that they were surely about to attempt. This was, after all, a matter of campus safety- a pretty *Big* Matter of campus safety, really. This wasn't just finding someone's lost familiar, or helping someone with a difficult assignment. This was an *Actual factual* Copy of the Blue Moon Maxim.

Though- maybe this was... An opportunity. If they *Did* Call public safety, this issue would surely be resolved in the next few days or weeks. It might lose Luca their position but- it'd keep things under control. If they... *Didn't*, however- if they were the ones to find and recover it? Maybe nobody would have to know that they had even seen it. It was a *Hidden* Copy of the Maxim, after all. Which meant maybe, once it was returned, he might be able to read over it himself. Not check it out, just... Read over it. That idea was certainly a bit more compelling. Besides, if they got campus security on this, who knows where the Maxim copy would end up afterwards- he might never even get the chance to see the cover.

Since his fellow students had already asked for leads, he stayed quiet, waiting for Luca's response. This had just gotten far more interesting.
Ingrid
You will be banished
Gary
Luca's fingers clung to the lip of the platinum talisman in his hand as he turned it over, staring at its front-face, decorated with its small jewel. The enchantment breathed lightly aglow as the visitors spoke to him and between one-another, his eyes focused upon the object in his hand and his ears distant from the two—his mind, in most parts, present elsewhere. Though distracted as he seemed, the earlier, strong sense of anxiety that had beset the apprentice was replaced with something much more subtle, controlled; he was by no means eased, but now appeared much more resolved. Something else occupied his focus.

"...Yes, that's right."

Jenova's question still had to be addressed, nonetheless. And despite Nano's siding with him, he sounded more as though he agreed with the former, himself.

"The matter of *Whose* Hands the book is in may be the most difficult matter of this all." 

Magic formed as small runic lights that faded in at the manipulation of the enchantment ingrained within the talisman that the Archivist wielded. Projected text in the form of cryptic glyphs took shape from that magic, hovering before Luca's eyes, as he scanned across their surface. The lines were written in a script that only the holder of the talisman could interpret, but their length, order, and the context in which they were summoned seemed to suggest they were a part of a transcript. A log of visitors to and borrowers from the Archive, perhaps?
_ _

"This is a matter that I truly would rather handle myself, but my hands are tied."
*`"...Cause if it's her, then an Édouard can't..."`* —he murmured, eyes set dispiritedly upon a single set of glyphs. He closed his eyes briefly, and paused.

"Roza Sapieha."
"Almante Novák."
"Chloe Fähnrich."
"Leoni Eisenstadt."
"...And Lucy *Von Eisenhart*."

Luca put some stress on the surname of the last individual, staring up at an angle toward the guests, as though they would innately recognize it. And indeed, most individuals deeply involved with the aristocratic sphere of *Astra Cantum* Would probably be familiar with the name — *Very* Familiar, depending on their standing — but as it turned out, none of the people present exactly fit that bill. The Eisenhart family was a highly-reputed dynasty, but in this room, they were effectively only relevant to the one Édouard seated before them: Luca himself.
_ _

"Four hours ago, these five individuals — a freshman, three sophomores, and a senior — arrived in a group."
"I gave them unrestricted access to a small sector of the Archive."
"They asked for some privacy, so I obliged..." He said, and quieter, followed, *`"...Foolishly,"`* In another murmur.
"When I checked in on them an hour later, they had left. Five books went missing with them."
"Preferably, I would like all of them retrieved, since gauging which one of them is the true copy of the *Maxim* Poses a high challenge, considering you do not have an **Insignia**," He remarked, still clasping that talisman—that **Insignia**—he spoke of.
"I am certain none of the five books have left Academy grounds, but what I am uncertain of is of which book is with whom."

"Sapieha is a regular of the library. She is a mostly trustworthy person, despite her ill record of missing return-dates. I would offer her as a strong lead, but..."
"...I haven't been able to get through to her. I'm... Uncertain what that means. She is, ahm... For lack of a better word, a... Strange person."
"She would most likely offer you something useful, I'm sure—but I highly doubt she holds the copy herself. I disbelieve she even knew what the ordeal was all about..."

While Luca spoke, he withdrew his phone, tapping through its menus and writing something down as he continued running down the line of individuals.
_ _

"Fähnrich is probably better-informed. She is a logical woman, but may give you a hard time, especially if *She* Was the one who planned all this. I am not well-acquainted with her, but I know she has close ties with Eisenstadt and Sapieha, and she is protective of both. If you can, try to avoid an accusatory tone with her."
"Eisenstadt... Is..."
"...I'd only speak with her if you're good with words... And prepared for an argument. She is... Ornery. Militant, even."
"Lucy von Eisenhart is an unassuming person, calm and mostly reticent, but I would advise you to be very careful with the steps you take about her. I won't mince words—as an Eisenhart, any serious conflict you start with her could be potentially ruinous to your career as a sorcerer. Yours *And* Mine, if I am found to be affiliated at all with it. However... Considering the *Maxim* Is involved, *Your* Hands are not tied so much as mine are. The importance of that book alone is your leverage—do not forget that."

Finally finishing what he was writing over the phone, a notification would ring on each of the present individuals' phones: information concerning the dormitory information and possible locations of each of the individuals he had just described.

"...Before you read that and get going, there's one last person..."
"The senior, Almante Novák."
"I know virtually nothing about her, but apparently she has somewhat of a history at the Academy. What kind of history, I could not exactly tell you—but apparently, it's the type you want to keep secret."
"She's an independent sorcerer with barely any affiliations amongst the noble families of the Academy, so she has little to tell her by — and, little to lose."
"I would not make an accusation so early, but it's highly probable that she had a strong hand in this entire matter. Again, I don't know much about her, so you're on your own there..."
_ _

With explanations out of the way, they could mull over the text that Luca had just sent them by way of a private chatroom. Such were the details of where and when they could most likely find the five individuals attached within:

- **Sapieha** Was most likely located at her dormitory hall, *Résidence Caerellia,* At this hour of the day. Her room number was attached.
- **Eisenstadt** Was known to take extra lessons during the evenings before the week-end, and almost certainly could be found within the unoccupied Academy amphitheater, performing a... "Trial" Of some sort. A footnote was attached: `"Please, avoid taking her up on her challenge."` It sounded like it was an assumed thing.
- **Fähnrich** Was likely studying, painting, or performing some extracurricular activity, and though her location at this time was unknown, could likely be found amidst some of the unoccupied facilities in the student center.
- **Almante and Eisenhart**'s whereabouts were both unknown, completely. Eisenhart would be assumed to be at her family's second residency in *Pōns Valois* On a Friday evening, but since all of the books had been confirmed to be on Academy grounds, it was highly likely — if the latter was involved in carrying any of the five books — that she was still somewhere within the facilities of *Astra Cantum.* The former's was unknown due to lack of information: Luca was uncertain even of where her dormitory even was located, if she even *Took* Residency at an Academy dorm.

They could converse or simply leave as they pleased, discovering what comes next once they depart from the Archive.
Mickie
Nano lifted her right hand off her chin, sitting slightly more upright in the wooden seat, adjusting her somewhat lax posture and subtly giving her left arm a two-three second scratch. She continued to consciously listen and take in all of what Luca had to say deriving from those runic lights and the talisman's log, proving herself right in the fact that there was indeed a reason he hadn't yet mentioned the prime suspects in relation to the Maxim's theft— not that such a thing gave her any joy or satisfaction in being correct. On the contrary, the nature of their involvement and how their various personality quirks and/or status could complicate matters was a little pressing. From how he described things, this wouldn't be some open and shut retrieval job.

Normally, Nano had no sort of issue with troubled customers of social life, and in fact was often lauded by the higher-ups for her overall ability to tolerate those less then well-mannered from a dispositional standpoint— again, not something to derive ego from, but factual nonetheless. However, within this specific context, she was actively looking for a *Thief* (multiple, in all probability), or in other words, tasked with *Accusing* And confirming that someone(s) stole something they shouldn't have, not to mention that said theft concerns an extremely high priority artifact vital to the academy itself. Trying to chat someone up innocently whilst wielding the underlying notion that she has to get them to admit wrongdoing or hand over something stolen isn't as straightforward as approaching a regular conversation. Sure, all the pressure was on poor Luca, but more variables were at play here then what she was accustomed too. This wasn't *Just* About establishing good relations; there was a decisive, possibly maliciously-circled goal. She always made a point to sympathize with the bad deeds with others in most instances, but was this. . . Justifiable? Maybe they just took it by accident? Or, well, maybe not. . .

_ _
Nano tapped her pink-nailed fingers against her like-colored lips in thought just beneath her shades, looking to the floor while Luca described each of the five potential, possibly conspiring culprits and their presented hurdles. Sapieha was someone who could be trusted, but she was on the stranger side and deemed unlikely to have the copy by the apprentice. Fähnrich is pragmatic, reasonably capable of planning such a heist, but naturally prone to make things difficult for an accuser. Eisenstadt is especially intense, aggressive and can feasibly tear apart anyone who doesn't speak carefully. Eisenhart seems a pleasant alternative compared to the other three, but poses general risk in her namesake and attained status as a member of that particular bloodline. Lastly, Novák, the senior, has an enigmatic history and character, yet high probability of involvement and as phrased, "Little to lose" In this affair to the extent that an early accusation would be unwise. 

``"I get it. None of them are easy to approach anyway since we'll be playing the accusers, huh. All bound to be guarded and to cover for each other. . ."`` Nano said, looking back up at Luca and sliding her fingers down to her chin. What was her preference? Well, each had their pros and cons, but it was hard to say. Perhaps she'd let everyone else state their pick before anything, seeing as this was a group effort. The unlikely oddball? A tough pragmatist? An aggressive militant? A reserved family heir? The mysterious senior? Some better on paper then others, and yet, problems all the same. 

``"How about you? Know who you're gonna talk to, or did you zone out again?"`` Nano remarked, tilting her head at her white-haired friend, Jenova— who may or may not have payed attention— unpocketing her cellphone as she inquired about his preference, examining the communicated details by Luca. Once again, her comment was not mean-spirited. This was merely how she spoke to him (mostly) exclusively.
Ronnie
He tapped his finger on the side of his phone while he mulled over the text on his screen. So, multiple books had gone missing with this group of students. And he had- a one in five chance in guessing right, if luck was that they all had one book. Of course, it *Wouldn't* Work that way, because it never works that way. One of them was sure to have more than one book, or no books, or be guilty of some *Other* Crime that would set them off if they were accused. Like an inverse Occam's razor. Occam's shaving cream, really. Simple solutions never worked. All the same... One in five. Roughly.

Roze was a library regular- and, given Luca knew more about them than he did, he trusted his judgement. She probably didn't have the book. Or any of the books, for that matter. But she supposedly had information... If they could *Find* Her, anyway. He wasn't the best at sleuthing so- for now, he mentally crossed her off.

Almante... Caught his attention, though. Someone else that wasn't very directly associated with noble families, here at the school. Not to say such a thing was *That* Uncommon but- it was still something he had in kind with her. And if she really was the sort of person Luca had described... He had a small idea, at the least. She supposedly had a past, and 'nothing to lose', as he put it. Which meant his idea was either great, dangerous, stupid, or all three. A sort of way to find her by way of search *Volume*, really. As for the problem of accusing her too early, well... If he didn't fuck up what he was trying to say, and didn't *Actually* Accuse her of anything- he felt he might be able to get something.
That was, if he was able to find her at all.
Fingers crossed.

`"I think I might have an idea on getting Almante's attention- if.. That's okay."`
He was confident in his idea but- less confident in his standing in this room. He didn't know any of these people personally, and he *Doubted* They knew him. He'd definitely get it if they didn't want to gamble an important lead on someone they didn't know and had never heard of.
Charles
Alexis spent a bit mulling over the details, she wished the archivist had come straight to her instead of getting students involved, a few Society operatives could would solve this case quite quickly, but there was no use getting hung up on her company.
Five books had gone missing, five books and five students, that made them all guilty in her eyes, nevertheless only one of them was the book they were looking for.
She finished eating her pain au chocolat, and adressed the group.

```
[0;40;34m "Novak or Eisenhart are likely the ringleaders, assuming they are all friends the other three likely know where they are, we should split up and tackle them then meet back up here when we are done, we can go after the remaining two together."
```
It seemed she had self appointed authority within the group, but it was understandable, she was *Technically* Faculty and they were students.
She paced around for a second, considering the three options, Sapieha sounded like the easiest, anyone could handle her, the other two would likely be the most challenging, Eisenstadt sounded most likely to erupt into some physical confrontation.

```
[0;40;34m "I will go after Eisenstadt, one of you can join me i dont care who, two should go after Fanrich, Sepieha should be easy enough for any of you to handle alone."
```
She reached into her pocket and drew out a paper bag, inside, was a second pain au chocolat, as was typical of her, she didn't wait for a response and simply turned and started walking away leaving the building and standing just outside, eating her pain au chocolat, waiting for whoever decided to be her partner to join her.
Marvel
`"...Rude,"` Jenova mumbled under his breath while Luca spoke, eyeing Nano. Though, such banter was normal for him, his gaze returning to Luca.

Jenova sat up in his seat, seeming to pay more attention now that Luca was beginning to divulge what actually mattered to him. None of the names mentioned by the archivist rang any bells to him, leaning his head against his hand. At least the group wouldn't be going on a wild goose chase for the book. His hand moved to his chin, mulling over the details which Luca had provided the group with; five individuals in total, but only three of them had known locations. He leaned back in his chair, slightly lifting its front two legs off the floor as he rocked in it.

`"No actually—I've been paying pretty good attention throughout now,"` Jenova rebutted Nano's slight against him, `"I'm thinking I'll go chat with Sapieha; should prove simple enough, and as Alexis said,"` Jenova eyed Alexis, `"I can handle her on my own."` Despite not being formally introduced, Jenova had known Alexis' name through whispers down the grapevine; she was quite popular after all, much akin to himself. `"How about you go look around for Fähnrich, Nano?"` Jenova gave Nano a suggestion.

Jenova seemed relatively adamant about his decision to speak with Sapieha, despite his status throughout the academy perhaps becoming an obstacle for him; it isn't everyday one of the most highly regarded students of Astra Cantum visits your dorm to interrogate you. He was confident it wouldn't prove a _huge_ obstacle though; after all, he was _usually_ pretty good at getting along with others.
Mickie
``"Fähnrich, huh?. . ."`` Nano thought to herself upon the suggestion from her refocused white-haired friend, briefly looking up to the ceiling and slightly shaking her head back in forth so as to indicate ponderment, relaxing both hands onto her knees. It wasn't like she had any other options considering everyone else had already chosen, detailing their subsequent reasons long or short that she deemed trustworthy— which is what she was waiting for anyway— but she still took a second to think about her approach towards the one in question. So, the tough pragmatist it is, then?

``"Sure, sounds good to me. Nice idea, shouldn't have doubted you."`` She looked back toward Jenova, and then directly at Luca. He seems engaged, doesn't he? Perhaps her previous ribbing was too harsh, and connecting with others *Was* More-so his thing. As Nano brought up earlier, each and every option had their individual pros and cons, and although she did say none was particularly preferable over the other, that didn't mean the task at hand was insurmountable, albeit personal reluctance remained for her taste. Nonetheless, this is an especially important matter related to ensuring academy magical functionality isn't compromised, as well as keeping someone's job intact. Whatever grievances she had weren't valid excuses here. She had to do her part.

Sure, Fähnrich's a tough cookie, but all of them were bound to be regardless, right? Avoiding being accusatory wouldn't be entirely simple given the context the situation, albeit; yet Yuen can work and reason with cold logic and overprotectiveness given time, as she's regularly prepared and sometimes asked to do with most people assuming those traits or not. It's not unlike any matter she's handled before on behalf of her family members or even Cantum faculty excluding the whole thievery aspect. Honestly, she might've been overreacting to that part, though. Shouldn't be too detrimental.

_ _
Nano lowly sighed and began to stand herself up, moving to push the wooden chair slightly out of instinct— only to realize there was no desk, causing her to shrug her shoulders, smirking at her own mistake. School habits. She then looked at the rest of the group and gave a lax, yet optimistic 'thumbs up' sign to them, her sunglasses drooping slightly. ``"I'm sure we can get it back. No worries here."`` From the text details she observed earlier, she reiterated in her mind that Fähnrich would have to be searched for among qualifying facilities relative to her described hobbies within the message.
Gary
Observing as the visitors to the Archive began to leave one-by-one, Luca leaned forward again and folded his hands, his eyes closing. He took a deep breath out shortly after waving Hanano good-bye, and could only hope that the three wouldn't run into any major hitches, possibilities silently buzzing and nipping at the back of his mind, as his hand returned to his forehead. In silence, the mind begins to wander...

*"...Oh..."*

Luca's eyes suddenly flashed open, and his head flicked back to meet Deimos' own gaze, as though surprised to see him still here. That was right — he had mentioned a plan of some type, right? Truth-be-told, the apprentice had been caught in the flow of the other visitors' conversation and departures from the Archive, and Deimos' own silent nature had stolen away some of the attention that would have been granted to an otherwise attention-grabbing statement. He had, in fact, suggested a step straight most likely at the core of this all: *Almante.* 

*`If it were so easy to get to Almante,`* He thought to himself, his own pessimism beginning to get to him, *`I would have sought her out myself...`*
*`...Then again, if Eisenhart is cooperating with her...`*

"A—Ah. Apologies."
"You said you had an idea?"

Well, he had ought to hear him out, at least. Desperate circumstances do indeed call for dramatic pivots. Though the rest had already left — perhaps leaving them with less working parts to pull through with his plan — Luca himself could supplement it, were it promising enough. . .

"Finding Almante directly won't be easy, but..."
"...I'm listening."