A Healer's Assistant

Subject: A Healer's Assistant Fri Sep 27, 2013 1:40 am

Allora	No one could really tell if it was day time or night time in the Southern Water Tribe. Actually, that's a lie; it was easily deducible the time of day for the natives, but for young Allora, it didn't matter too much for her. Because as of a week ago, she took on the position of assistant for one of the head healers in the entire tribe. And with this kind of position comes menial responsibilities that require meticulous and scrupulous direction, because if she makes a mistake at all, she could effectively endanger the patient's life, and in the book of Ethics and Manners, that's a big no-no. It's also the perfect excuse to get you lynched with barbwire. Pasteurizing the herbs with a mesh, she mixed the contents with arm motions, her usual dark gloves removed for more able use. This was one of the many things she did as the healer's assistant, here in the healer's hut. As patients came and went, she'd provide medicine, and even though water was more than able to sustain injuries and properly fix them up, it took just a little extra boost to fully revitalize a person. And so she continued in the back room, as snow fell outside, her river-blue eyes witnessing the fall. She wanted to go outside already, or maybe home, or just stay in here and keep on doing this. She supposed it didn't matter for her anyway. "I'll need that batch of medicinal herbs soon, Allora." Said an elderly voice. Allora's head turned around, craned slightly to catch a glimpse of the one who called her name. Stopping the turning motion, she nodded and resumed. Exiting the back room, she handed the concoction -- a simple one -- to the healer to prescribe to the latest patient, and remained at attention for any oncoming lectures or new lessons she'd have to learn.
Mood: Attentive and hard at work; generally bored Condition: Perfect	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Fri Sep 27, 2013 4:24 am

Zurok Mia Takamatzu	Zurok was quite familiar with the various apothecaries of the Southern Water Tribe. She herself was one of the medical experts in the tribe, and while she was not necessarily the best of the best, she certainly had her renown. Then again, healing, unlike sparring or combat, was not necessarily a competition, and so there was no real way of comparing them just yet. Even then, Zurok's competition was only against herself. What other people knew, she simply lauded them for, occasionally asking them about it if she felt that she did not know a part of it. Otherwise, she was competing against herself to outsmart herself... always getting better. A small hushed commotion soon started outside of the apothecary, mostly because of Zurok's reputation and the fact that she had just entered. After a few hushed words, some of which were likely from the witch herself though, it seemed to calm back down. her appearance had not been random though. instead, she was here to pick up an order that she had made a few days ago--or rather, the ingredients for it. She would likely make it herself. As a result, she soon crossed paths with the young apprentice in the back room, and being the amiable and sociable person that she was, decided a little small talk would not hurt too much. "Allora, is it?" Zurok was good at remembering names, and this was not necessarily the first time they had met. "Enjoying what you do here?" It was an odd question to ask, but Zurok was an odd woman who asked odd questions--particularly if said questions made the answerer think a bit. This was Zurok's intention on a basic level at least.
Mood: Opportunistic Condition: Perfect	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Fri Sep 27, 2013 3:26 pm

Allora	The first time she and Zurok had met, was probably when her Healing instructor nominated her to a more advanced level; apprentice. Allora was, overall, not exactly excited, but she didn't feel encumbered by leveling up either. It wasn't a thing she enjoyed, per say, but with a little effort, one could note that she does enjoy it to an extent. That is, if you can bore into her soul and past her usual placidity. The Elder healer and highly respected icon of the Southern water tribe -- and of course, most or some of the world -- approached young Allora while in the back room again, mixing up medicine for her new instructor. In that process, Allora dropped whatever she was doing -- not literally, but more along the lines of placing her work tools down -- and directed her attention to Zurok. The question was a simple one, maybe. But was it simple for Allora? Allora took some time to think about it, maybe a few seconds or so, before posing a reply. "I do not really understand what it means to enjoy something, but as long as it bears fruit and allows my studies to progress, then I suppose I have no qualms with it." Her reply was simple and to the point, giving away how overall apathetic she was to the notion of 'enjoyment.' She did not give Zurok a specific expression after that; her stare was blank and neutral, wondering what else the woman would say next.
Mood: Thoughtful Condition: Perfect	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Fri Sep 27, 2013 4:23 pm

Zurok Mia Takamatzu	Zurok understood that the youngster didn't exactly have much in the ways of emotions, let alone expressing them, and so her expression did not change. In a way, it was like herself, as she did not exactly seem to express much in the ways of emotions either. However, that was a common misconception. Zurok had emotions; she was simply calm most of the time. There were also plenty of times when she was confident or happy, although few if anyone had ever seen her angry or sad. She listened quietly and politely to Allora's response, not replying until she was finished, where she had an immediate response. "perhaps one day you will understand the concept of enjoyment, but what is important is that you like what you are doing. If you ever have to force yourself to do something that does not somehow pay off in the future, then frankly, it is not worth doing. That was the main purpose behind that particular inquiry." Talking in riddles was another of Zurok's tricks, and the agonizing crypticness of some of them made some people question her very sanity. despite the tricks and puzzles though, Zurok always had ways of explaining exactly what she was talking about--or skirting a question if needs be.
Mood: Opportunistic Condition: Perfect	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Fri Sep 27, 2013 4:48 pm

Allora	Allora always had an extensive knowledge on wordplay, and even though she's young, her insight -- or her supposed knowledge -- of the world exceeds her. Even though she should be focusing on other things, she remains philosophical, but that's probably due to her parents. She listened closely to what Zurok had to say, but didn't reply after that. At least, not immediately. She understood where she was coming from, at least, in her own way. But Allora knew well that whatever she was practicing now would help her extensively in the future, allowing her to perform whatever kind of great feat, and maybe make her well known, much like her elder, Zurok. "My parents know best," Was her answer afterwards. "I have an inkling that whatever I am practicing now won't disappoint me in the, how they say, 'long run'."That was probably the longest line of words Allora had strung along in a while, perhaps. Her parents may know best, but does Allora know what's best for her? Does she know what she wants to do in the future? Is her image as clear as she says it to be? Probably not, she's still a kid, but at least she has some form of foundation.
Mood: Insightful; thoughtful, maybe just a bit confused. Condition: Perfect	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Fri Sep 27, 2013 5:03 pm

Zurok Mia Takamatzu	Perhaps the reason Zurok took such interest in the child was because of that insight. she had always been a mature child for her age, and as she grew up, her body began to more fit the part that her mind had been at years before. It wasn't to say that Zurok didn't have a childhood, for she had one, and a rich and colorful one no less. "Do they?" she raised an eyebrow. "Do they really? Have you come to discover that for yourself, or is that simply what you have been taught to believe?" It was not to say that Zurok was a rebel either. She simply enjoyed and endorsed free-thinking, and in her ideal world, everyone would have solidly-built opinions based on their own understanding and not on the doctrine of others. Things like this were some of the reasons Zurok enjoyed making people think. Allora would probably know that such was Zurok's nature, even if she did not know the intent of her questions. Zurok's wisdom and the way she provoked people into stopping and looking at themselves, was one of the reasons people both liked her and were suspicious of her.
Mood: Opportunistic Condition: Perfect	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Fri Sep 27, 2013 5:13 pm

Allora	In reality, Allora idolized Zurok enough to actually pay full course attention to her. Although she does pay attention to most of those who are older than her, despite questioning their inner motives. Although Allora was almost the kind of person to dwell on someone's motives, she was not the kind to dwell on them, reading them like a book. As long as something did not directly affect her or those she cared about, she'd turn a blind eye. That kind of thinking, however, is contradictory to what she's practicing, isn't it? The question Zurok posed to Allora was something she had heard a few times, maybe. Maybe not enough for her to think about it, but coming from such a wise woman, Allora had to take a mental double-take, and consider her own thoughts in this matter. Her parents had always been wise, and anyone can assume that they were an incredibly positive influence on young Allora. As a child, Allora was always mature, not speaking out of turn, speaking when being spoken to, and making sure she didn't make rash decisions all the time. She could think, and that was one of the boon gifts given to her by her parents, highly respected nobles and spiritualists of the Southern Water Tribe. And so Allora did not respond immediately again. She entertained Zurok's words in her head, while working on the mixture and herbs her instructor had given her to do once more. She may have been an above average healer for her age, but mixing wasn't exactly her strong suit. After finishing the mix, a few minutes later, she responded. ". . . I have always believed that the elders knew best, and my parents being those who conceived me, I'd follow their example and their teachings. I do not generally doubt they'd want what is best for me." She poured the mixed contents in a flask, sealing it and placing it on a table.
Mood: Contemplating her life decisions; thoughtful Condition: Perfect	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Fri Sep 27, 2013 5:27 pm

Zurok Mia Takamatzu	To Zurok, good and evil were somewhat relative, as were right and wrong. They varied from person to person, and few, if any, things ever inherently fell into one category or the other. She had killed before, but was it wrong to murder a serial killer? She had lied before, but was the truth really better if the lie sounded better and the target would never learn the truth? She bided her time mixing ingredients of her own as she waited for the youngster's answer, so she was definitely not hovering over Allora's shoulder or anything intrusive. No, when Zurok got intrusive, she made it a goal to make sure her targets knew as little about it as possible. Never would she play this obvious. "Many of them do, aye." she replied, "although age does not bring about perfection, except perhaps in fine wine. While elders do err much less than children, they are susceptible to mistakes all the same. I am obviously not one to say that it is what your parents are doing; just that nothing should ever be accepted unquestionably. I am sure that they want what they believe is best for you--which is fine... as long as you know that it is best for you." Zurok knew a bit about her parents, and was not necessarily questioning their wisdom--just making sure that their daughter was doing this because she knew it to be right for her, and not just because her parents had said so. As an appreciator of intelligence, Zurok had always liked this girl herself.
Mood: Interested Condition: Perfect	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Fri Sep 27, 2013 7:45 pm

Allora	The consequences that would arise by not being completely autonomous, was not something Allora was very aware of. Sure, she had enough resolve in herself to make her own decisions, but when she can't find a logical explanation as to why something is not good for her, she decides to go along with it anyway. As a person who prefers to find the logic in almost everything, she has always been like this, and that is why she didn't fight her parent's decisions to enroll her in waterbending training. To be honest with herself, though, she doesn't particularly enjoy Southern Waterbending as much as she enjoys healing and Northern waterbending. The same discipline, yet varying styles. And let's not get started on hand-to-hand combat. A suddenly realization dawned on her in that moment; she did not enjoy hand-to-hand combat very much, and she feels as if she actually somewhat understands what it means to enjoy something. Creating an herbal overlay over the base of medicine, she continued to mix, and finally applied water to the mixture. Working her hand and wrist, she altered the flow of water, and spun it around at a moderate rate. She kept her eyes on her work as she did so, practicing her chemistry, along with her waterbending at the same time. A very general style of waterbending, really, basic, nothing a beginner would have too much problem with. "I. . . Suppose I do not particularly 'enjoy' training hand-to-hand. . ." She tells Zurok, who she didn't feel as an imposing presence on her. "It is not something I am very good at." She was doubting herself in that moment, knowing that she will never be good at defending herself in that way. Regardless, she poured the now finished mixture in another flask. By now, she had crafted up so many, be it on impulse, or she just needed to mix up twenty flask in a time interval of fifteen~minutes.
Mood: Doubtful; somewhat flummoxed Condition: Perfect	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Fri Sep 27, 2013 8:34 pm

Zurok Mia Takamatzu	Zurok could tell that Allora's mind was at work, and so she simply smiled and watched the girl think. Zurok sometimes had those moments, but they happened so often that it was rare NOT to see her deep in thought about something. The mind of that woman worked at least a mile a minute. Some of the superstition surrounding the old woman came from a worrysome theory that she was trying to breed chaos. Her reckless daughter did not help soothe these claims any, but Zurok lived on the same way as before. One of the things a lot of people liked about Lady Takamatzu was that she was always willing to listen to people Even if it was something as simple as ranting or venting, or even telling her about your day; she was there, and was all ears. The more you told her, the more she could tell you. She continued to watch Allora's movements until the youngster spoke up once again. "well, if you do not enjoy it or do not think the trouble putting in is worth what you get from it... then why continue at all? Is it the wishes of your parents?" She paused and decided to add a little bit, remembering that she was talking to someone who was not yet an adult. "Obviously I am one who fully condones listening to reasonable parents. although... if you are to abandon one school of discipline, methinks it would free up more time for you to focus on what you do enjoy, whatever it might be." Never really being one to judge people by their interests (most of the time anyways), Zurok would give this same type of advice to just about anyone. She kept her calm smile as she continued working on whatever it was she was doing, wondering how the younger girl would respond.
Mood: Interested Condition: Perfect	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Sat Sep 28, 2013 12:26 am

Allora	Once again, Zurok managed to make Allora think about her future decisions. These few times wouldn't be the first, considering how they met. Although Zurok wasn't very imposing with her advice at the time, you could say that she all-around encouraged Allora -- indirectly -- to take up the helm as a healer's apprentice, in a more unorthodox way. Unorthodox, in a way that, medicine isn't the go-to option to cure ailments or injuries, so it's not specifically mundane, but as the word progresses, new sickness rises that make even the most powerful healers useless. But not all, by technicality. Allora contemplated on her new-found decision to quit hand-to-hand combat, and just focus on her bending disciplines and medical teachings. She came to the conclusion that it wouldn't exactly be the best idea. Her parents would be disappointed, along with her abilities to defend herself becoming heavily diluted in the end. Walking toward a shelf, which stored several necessary trinkets, including even pots and leather bags, she took several bags, and began to store the twenty or so corked flasks into them, careful not to cause a break in them. She didn't reply to Zurok for the longest of time. She either didn't want to verbally proclaim that she would quit, or not quit, even though she more than likely wouldn't. Excusing herself, she walked out of the back room for several minutes, handing the bags of flasks to her instructor, before coming back in. She appeared to be getting ready to leave, storing a few scrolls and textbooks inside of her bag, and placing on her gloves. An expression of boredom and slight disdain stayed on her face, but she didn't really look like she was contemplating anything short of boring, though.
Mood: Contemplative yet overall bored; Condition: Healthy but slightly tired	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Sat Sep 28, 2013 1:05 am

Zurok Mia Takamatzu	Never one to judge but always one to analyze, Zurok's mind went deep into thought mode as she processed the silence. Personally, it did not matter to Zurok what Allora did with her life as long as she knew what she was doing and enjoyed it. Zurok was familiar with both hand to hand and with healing, given that she had considerable expertise in both departments. Zurok was a very influential woman, usually even if she did not try to be. She just had a calm, commanding power to her voice, which is part of what made her such an excellent politician, both on a local and a foreign level. charisma was a necessary tool in this, and Lady Takamatzu had this in spades. She watched Allora packed packed her things away, her expression still calm and no real emotion showing. She did not seem fazed by the fact that she did not get a reply. She could tell that she had gotten the youngster to think about what she had said, and that meant that she had accomplished her goal. Even if she did not convince someone to change their mind about something, Zurok considered her words a success if they got people thinking. Allora briefly left the room and then came back a moment later to find the older woman exactly where she had been before. Similar to earlier, she had another question, but nit was not a repeat of her earlier question or an attempt to try and get an answer from her. Instead, it was something much simpler. "Leaving already?" she raised an eyebrow.
Mood: Interested Condition: Perfect	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Sat Sep 28, 2013 1:35 am

Allora	Allora's thoughts began to wander along the path of her future once again. Slinging her bag over one shoulder, she knew now that she needed to attend her waterbending training, and afterwards, she would just go home and rest. She did not have hand-to-hand and waterbending training in the same day, as she opted to keep it more balanced and considered her physical state. And even having that in mind, she procrastinated for a while, looking at the floor, until she would be later disturbed by Zurok and her question. But while she looked at the floor for a few moments, she needed to assure herself that quitting was not an option. She is only fourteen, and being so young, she had the ultimate privilege to be born to such a powerful and respected family, having enough money to be trained by the best. She could not disrespect her parents wishes just because she did not enjoy it, because in the end, it would have all paid off, and she would be finished with it before she knew it. Her goal was to master all of these disciplines before she breached the age of twenty, and probably explore once she gained free autonomy for herself. However, she was regressing back to that cold, commanded shell she usually encased herself in. Not relying on free will, she allowed others to make decisions for her, especially if they were influential and close enough to her, and especially if they knew her enough to use her past and experience against her. Her train of thought was cut off short by Zurok's question. And to that, she replies, "I must attend my waterbending discipline training. I suppose I should not dawdle any longer and leave." And with that, she bowed and excused herself, placed her head over her head, and began to walk out of the room. She will continue to think about what she wants to do, but she will more than likely consult her parents, and hopefully receive a mature and thought-out reply, instead of a simple 'no'.
Mood: Indecesive; thoughtful Condition: Not as worn out as you'd think	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Sat Sep 28, 2013 2:12 am

Zurok Mia Takamatzu	Zurok was often considered somewhat meddlesome, which was ironic because she was similarly seen as a secretive woman. Perhaps she was hypocritical this way, given that she did not tell much about herself to others, but at the same time, she always had a reason to back herself up. Most often it was simply that the information was not requested from her. She was a straight-shooter that regard, because she would almost always tell the truth about herself if asked. Aye, she was a bloodbender. Aye, she was a healer. Aye, she had 7 children and still looked rather attractive. The only thing that she would not openly speak of were what her plans were in the long run. Short term plans sometimes came up, but Zurok was also very skilled at dodging questions she did not want to answer. Luckily, usually these only came up when she was asked about her grand schemes, and she would dodge around them with rather impressive eloquence and decent-sized retorts. "Waterbending training, you say," she stood up, clearly interested in the younger girl's answer. "Would you humor an old woman and let her tag along?" Sure, 51 was not terribly old for people of this fine world, but it was still a reasonably long time to be alive, and Zurok certainly aged well. "I simply wish to see what they teach you." Curiosity and eagerness to learn new things was always a driving force in Zurok's life. She wondered if things had changed since her days. Perhaps she could give Allora a pointer or two afterwards, especially fi she had any complaints about what she was taught. She would first wait for her answer though, because there was no point in counting one's komodo-chickens before they had hatched.
Mood: Interested Condition: Perfect	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Sat Sep 28, 2013 2:46 am

Allora	Allora counted Zurok as one of the few people she never needed to question. She knew only as much as the general public was lead to believe; if anything, she may know a little more, but nothing that outweighs what everyone else would know about Zurok, especially with what she lets loose out into the public. Naturally, Zurok being an evident public icon, words get strung along and extrapolated; changed and reworded, rumors come up, and things that aren't necessarily true become common knowledge. The young girl of the water tribe was not necessarily dreading training her prowess with water. She enjoyed being able to kinetically influence the flow of water with her various teachings, even if they weren't advanced or notable. Considering this, she enjoyed learning more things, but having to practice her more offensive disciplines dampened her mood, even if it was slight. Returning to a more internal point, idolizing Zurok did not necessarily encumber Allora, or put up an impenetrable obstacle she couldn't hurdle over. A girl her age should not have to advance too quickly, and make these abstract and highly vivid goals too impossible at her current state of being. Consequently, it's just that is what she did; her goal is to either surpass or become Zurok's equal, but for now, she wanted to focus on the first steps, than immediately smashing through Zurok's fame -- or infamy -- quickly. That wasn't exactly her intention, but things change as a person grows, especially as they become exposed to newer experiences. The last time Zurok saw Allora do any kind of training -- aside from now -- was when she was nominated to become a Head Healer's apprentice -- or in a more technical case, assistant. Zurok had, more than likely, never seen Allora train her waterbending, especially before an instructor. Therefore, when Zurok asked Allora if she could come along and watch, she felt slightly nervous, but this was not betrayed by her tone or body language. Instead, she complied to her wishes, fearing that no would not be the right answer. "If you have time, then I have no issue with you coming along." Addressing her in a polite tone is what she always did, because right now, Zurok was not Allora's equal, but someone she did not really reach up to her feet yet. Before she had complied and answered, Allora was planning on giving her a different response. By body language standards, it can be assumed it was a specific inquiry, maybe along the lines of asking her if, perhaps, she had anything of importance to tend to. However, this would gave away her nervousness, and decided against it. Knowing Zurok would more than likely follow along almost immediately -- she hoped -- she began to lead the way by exiting the back room, saying good day to her instructor, and leaving.
Mood: Slightly nervous; neutral Condition: Just fine	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Sat Sep 28, 2013 3:16 am

Zurok Mia Takamatzu	Incidentally, Zurok did not seem to ever react much to her reputation, both good or bad. She would usually smile at positive rumors and chuckle at the negative ones, neither conforming nor denying them directly if ever asked about them. She liked keeping people guessing a little bit, although her daughter ousted her in that department, and not just because she was the Avatar. If she were on her deathbed, Lady Takamatzu would want two things--someone (or more than one person) to continue her legacy in pursuit of knowledge, and for her to go down being remembered for the things she did, both good and evil alike. They were odd dreams, but such were Zurok's dreams. If someone were ever to oust her (surly such a person existed somewhere), she would be proud more than anything. For Zurok, it had never been about being the best--it was just about outperforming herself. She was the only one she would content and compete with. It had been a long time since she had seen the youngster waterbend, but she was interested in seeing Allora's progress. She was never judgmental, and so to figure out what she thought of one's skills, one had to ask Ms. Takamatzu directly. She would never just voluntarily say them, but when asked, she would be precise and honest in her thoughts. "Very well then." she nodded in response, "I shall accompany you then. After all, it is not me you need to impress." This was a friendly reminder that Zurok gave to remind Allora that she was not going to evaluate her skills--well, not publicly anyways. She would make the usual assessments mentally and size her up in her mind, but otherwise, her mouth was sealed. Unsurprisingly, Zurok followed Allora all the way to where her waterbending training was. She kept a calm and confident stride in her step, and had a flowing grace to her movements. Old or not, it was clear that she was still very fluid. She certainly wasn't hard on the eyes either.
Mood: Interested Condition: Perfect	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Sat Sep 28, 2013 5:32 am

Allora	As the two walked -- albeit in mutual silence, and probably both lost in deep though --, Allora considered heading to her cottage-like home and retrieve her pet polar bear dog, Jior Ga. Since Jior Ga was still just a cub, Allora had no problem carrying her in her arms, or balancing her on her head. Incidentally, being able to balance a live being on her head showed how well bred Allora was, and just how centered -- spiritually and gravitationally -- she was. In the end she decided against it, and after taking a sharp turn, she began her walk toward the training grounds once more. There, her instructor and current Waterbending master in both disciplines, would probably be waiting for her. As usual, Allora would be the one to arrive the earliest; most of the students arrived promptly after her, after a short amount of time waited, along with others who either procrastinated or provided some kind of excuse. Another thing about Allora was that an excuse did not justify many things for her. Although this is potentially hypocritical, she did not see an excuse as something someone should own, and use to their particular advantage. In the world, things happen, and things do happen to people because both the world, society, and the cosmos decide upon it. But that is destiny, and being fatalistic in nature, Allora believed that posing an excuse for this and that was not something she really respected. That is, of course, if it's a very good excuse, but that is solely up for debate. The students who arrived afterwards allowed the class to begin, with the exception of a few who either are coming very late, or decided to stay at home for the day. The instructor had acknowledged Zurok before Allora, and gestured for the public icon to take a seat in the most luxurious station. Basically, some form of highly comfortable V.I.P. bleacher. And then, the training began. Today, things would be mixed; one student would be on offense, while the other was subjected to being purely defensive. Luckily, Allora was set on defense, while her counterpart, a snobby Waterbender with an ambitious outlook on life, took the offense. Immediately after roles were assigned -- and this particular exercise was review and warm up -- the instructor rose the toll and allowed the students to begin hands on practice. It was fast and fluid; Allora's opposition released an extravagant and well constructed whip her way, which she quickly defended herself with an equally well constructed water shield. Moving her body to the rhythm of the Northern Style, she would draw her hands around and into herself, outward, jutting, elegant and maybe a little rigid. Her feet would also move in coherence, one foot and leg out, the other behind, as water shield after water shield deflected and brought her opponent's whips to nothing. Eventually her opponent became slightly hot-headed. To knock Allora off her high horse, they produced a wave that aimed to knock her off her feet. Allora, being defensive by nature, took this opportunity to stop the wave in its tracks, by lowering her body, right leg behind while the other leg was forward, and spreading her arms as she came up. Ice became water, and crashed against the wave, as it was diluted and made a simple splash against her boots. During this exercise, Allora had no specific reaction; although you could tell she was under pressure against her opponent. Being a Southern Water tribe native, Allora did not act like one, and neither did she fight like one. It was evident that her defensive prowess and knowledge on the Northern Style discipline was exceptional, to say the least. Minutes pass, and the same actions repeated with other students, but it is notable that Allora out-shined those who were on defensive. The instructor called this exercise quits, as the students switched places. Now, Allora was on the offensive, and this is the part where she would truly struggle the most.
Mood: Defensive; slightly under pressure Condition: Just fine	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Sat Sep 28, 2013 7:15 am

Zurok Mia Takamatzu	Zurok of course graciously accepted the extra treatment, although she was not one to lord it over anyone of course. she often came here to spectate and observe, mentally noting various movements of various students. Allora was a special case though, as Zurok had spoken philosophically with her on some occasions, including just recently. She thought the youngster had potential, and so took great interest in her. She watched the battle with great interest, as she always did.she observed the movements of the offenders and defenders, mentally noting any flaws she might have noticed, and assessed them herself to see if she made any elementary errors like that. Most of the time she obviously didn't, but occasionally there would be something that she would notice in herself that she would need to change. She would make efforts to change it after realizing it of course. Zurok had her hands folded in her lap as she watched the students with her calm smile. It was nigh impossible to tell what she was thinking other than that she was attentive and deep in thought. This only intensified when Allora switched places to the offensive. This would make things interesting, as she had observed and noticed the child's defensive talent and knew that it was her specialty. To see her not in her element would be an interesting change of events.
Mood: Interested Condition: Perfect	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Sat Sep 28, 2013 7:45 am

Allora	Allora was not in her element. Repeated: Allora was not, and is not in her element. And because of this, she made her business known by removing the gloves she had on, to keep away the cold. Now on the offensive, Allora felt that having these mittens on would restrict her movements, and since Southern Discipline was a bit more quick and rigid, she needed to be able to work her wrists and fingers to the rhythm as freely as possible. The toll was rise, and it began. As the offensive, Allora had the initiative. Allowing her arms to stay by her sides, a second later, she was already bringing forth water from the ice, by drawing her hands in together, moving her finger. Bringing the whip up, she arched her arms over her head, along with the somewhat wobbly whip, and harnessed its precision by bringing and angling her arms to her side. Afterwards, jutting her right arm forward and left arm backward, she released the somewhat refined whip -- yet still shaky --, aiming to smack away at her opponent. It can be dully noted that the time it took Allora to present the whip was slightly below average, as others on the offensive were already dishing out their attacks seconds after she had begun to do so herself. What Allora expected was that her opponent would immediately defend, bringing up some form of shield. Therefore, she accounted to immediately send out more whips. However, because of her logical failure, the opponent managed to outsmart her. Instead of defending against her whip, her opponent redirected the flow of the water by kinetically pulling and pushing, spinning around, and sending the whip her way. Allora was almost punched out before exchanges were even started, but managed to grasp the water and send it back her opponent's way in short notice. And so began the exchange; opponent, then her, opponent, then her. It was a constant practice of sending the water back in different directions, different tact, different strategy. Effectively, this could go on forever. It is unsure to Allora or her instructor why she lacks the natural affinity for the rigid style of waterbending provided by the South; some think it could be because her parents were genetically born Northerners, while others think she just doesn't have the resolve enough. Whichever reason it may be, it justified it enough, but they were nothing but excuses. And excuses are, to her, they were no reason to not try her best. The constant exchange of water soon got old, and with little time left for practice on both ends, the opposing side decided to get a bit more defensive, with an impressive -- yet intermediate at best -- ice wall imposing on Allora's redirected current. Noting this, she spun around and sent out a small wave of water toward her opponent's side, only for it to be thrashed entirely by a least than impressive shield of water. Panting, shoulders rising, breath visible due to how cold she was, her hands clammy and shaky, she wasn't doing very good. The exchange continued, with Allora at a huge disadvantage. It's as if she wasn't making any progress, and as it can be told, it was probably because she willed herself not do so. Allora was at her wits end with offensive maneuvers. She had no idea what else she could dish out, so she decided to make this exercise true to its definition; practice. Practice. She needed to practice. And practice she did. Timing her whips correctly, she got faster, gradually, by her own accord, and began to dish out the whips more fluently and rapidly than the start of her attack. Because of her natural ability to adapt, she had no choice but to conform more adeptly to the Southern Discipline, and even apply her Northern affinity to it. Using elegant movements and strokes, arches, feet and leg movements, her whips only increased in length and severity. Soon, her opponent could not effectively keep up, while she seemed to glide on the snow. Her fervor and ardor continued to rise to the brink, and if she didn't stop now, she could pass out or get very sick. No one understood what caused this dramatic change in Allora's pace and action. Usually, she was entirely centric on what she was doing, not being bothered by the fact that she was below those in skill when it came to offense. Could it be that she finally decided that enough is enough? That her style and her way just wasn't good enough? That she needed to surpass herself, and others, even if it cost her energy and health? Was it really worth it? These were the questions people were probably asking themselves. Immediately, the instructor called the exercise to a close, to which Allora promptly collapsed. The constant shifting of ice and lashes of whips resonated in her mind, as her usual deeply tanned complexion was somewhat pallid. Additionally, falling on her knees, bared hands in the snow, only getting colder. She panted more vigorously, coughing. Her hair was disheveled, and her usual stoic demeanor was entirely abolished by stress and intensity; things were red hot, even for waterbenders. At least, for her. A commotion was broached between the other students, the instructor concerned as to why Allora would go to such great lengths. She was definitely not the type fit for offensive combat, but something in her flared up that just made her want to be better. More adequate. Influential. Admired. Her superiority is probably getting the best of her, yet again, but in such an odd way. . .
Mood: Nervous;determined;intense; calamity-striken and tuckered out Condition: Not doing too well; this girl is going to need some medical attention very soon	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Sat Sep 28, 2013 8:52 am

Zurok Mia Takamatzu	Zurok watched with interest as the youngster's strength began to wane rapidly. clearly offense was not her forte, but Zurok saw that as something that could be corrected or overcome if Allora so desired for it to. soon the matched turned into a lengthy and rather eventless back and forth match. Zurok was surprised that both sparrers allowed that much repetition without mixing up their game a little. it would be too easy, she thought. Back and forth went the water, with Zurok's keen electric blue eyes following it to make sure she caught every moment of it. finally, the defender decided to mix it up with an ice wall, and Zulera wiped her forehead as if to say 'whew'. nothing was quite as boring or bad as a repetitive and predictable match. The more she watched the exchange of combat, the more she realized that Allora was failing, and her condition was beginning to worsen. That would have to be taken care of, especially if it had anything to do with the cold. Then she was surprised in quite a pleasant way. something increased the youngster's vigor and she had a little bit more flare in her fight. However, it too was doomed from the start. the instructor called for the match to end, and immediately Allora collapsed. Zurok was among those who made their way out to go investigate her. "She needs medical care." she told the instructor, although Allora would hear it as well. "does she have a place to go, or should I take her?" Zurok was a very reputable healer, and so if she had permission to take the child back to her home and nurse her back to health, she gladly would. Zurok liked children, and not in any sort of creepy or perverted way. She simply liked them, and if she healed them, it was just healing. seeing her so pale and coughing, she didn't even wait for an answer. The smaller woman surprisingly hoisted the 146-lb woman into her arms, despite herself being a little 5'2" woman weighing only 116. Zurok was small, but not weak. She was very solidly built and similarly very strong. She began walking in swift(ish) strides away from the scene with the intent of getting her to her nearby home to help warm her up and give her appropriate medical attention. Some things were emergencies and could not wait. However, if the girl recovered enough to stand and walk on her own, Zurok would gladly put her down and such.
Mood: Interested Condition: Perfect	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Sat Sep 28, 2013 4:19 pm

Allora	Voices became nothing but trailed off blurs to Allora, as her breathing intensified and so did her pulse, for her specifically. It was probably a reaction from her brain, which insisted that she was still alive and not about to die or something. Of course, this girl wasn't going to die due to employing an excess amount of energy into her strikes. It wouldn't be surprising if she had some sort of lung disease, like asthma. And although vitality wasn't her strong suit, and she lacked the natural fortitude to stay strong and hold on to consciousness, it would take a bit longer for her to completely dissolve into sleep. Allora couldn't feel anything or hear anything. And she had no true control of her body, aside from the basic functions her brain sent out to her nervous system to keep her alive. As such, due to not having complete control of her body, she was vulnerable to any outside force exerted on her. Therefore, without posing resistance, she was quickly swept off her feet and taken to Zurok's home, where she would be tended to and deserve a well earned rest. This rest wasn't very well earned, though, and by the time she and Zurok would reach wherever they were going, she'd be out like a light. Her breathing would stagger and sputter out, and it'd return to normal gradually. Her skin would be unnaturally cold, yet the color was returning to her cheeks. Her body must have already given up, and for a girl who can't last long conscious during so much bodily stress, it was impressive how long she did last. Allora should have not gone overboard, though. She really should have been more cool and collected, and not reacted firey to her own desires. It's not against moral code to shape your own desires in whatever way you wished, but for Allora, who knew very well her own limitations, and knew she needed to go at a certain fabricated pace, should not have done what she did today. Slipping into unconsciousness at last, the outside world no longer existed. In the mean time, as she was tended to and rested -- perhaps comfortably -- she would slip into a deep sleep. A very strange and spiritual sleep, as if she were commuting with some-beings, perhaps.
Mood: Drifting; unconscious Condition:Cold to the touch; gradually getting better; exhausted, at all bounds	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Sat Sep 28, 2013 5:14 pm

Zurok Mia Takamatzu	Seeing no resistance from the weakened, shivering girl, Zurok made haste back to her home, which was large and rather nice. She could not exactly run since she was carrying a young lady that was both bigger and heavier than her entire person, but she still made haste. Zurok laid her down on a table designed for these sorts of things. the room in question was warm, as there had been a fire going before Zurok had left it. it was therefore much cozier in here than it was outside, and she hoped that the youngster would slowly come back to health. her clothes were not wet or terribly cold, and so Zurok left them on. Most of what would follow was just a waiting game. No, there was too much potential here for Zurok to go to waste. So, while she waited for Allora to hopefully regain consciousness, she began heating up some warm tea to help her put something hot into her body when she woke up. She would probably warm up easily enough, but Zurok didn't ever take risks if there was a surefire method to success.
Mood: Interested Condition: Perfect	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Sat Sep 28, 2013 5:55 pm

Allora	Her body temperature immediately began to ascend as they entered the warm confines of Zurok's home. This was a good thing, and there was probably not risk or danger of her condition worsening. Luckily, Zurok was a competent woman, which Allora had no doubt of, or any one else. Being set down on a table, she was in continuous comatose non-reaction. All she did was breathe silently and peacefully, asleep and enjoying whatever kind of vivid dream she was having. Consisting of a spectacular view of vines, a lot of fog, running water, resident flora and fauna everywhere, it wouldn't be doubtful that she was developing the concept of 'enjoyment.' To have these kind of dreams must mean that Allora must have opened some kind of sinister 'chakra' that she hadn't been able to pry open for a very, very long time, perhaps since childhood when she remained curious and without disdain. Her dream was not just vivid but occupied with strange creatures that resembled things that would more than likely be labeled as spirits. She traveled in this world, peculiar to only itself, not stirring in the slightest in the mortal plane. At least, that's what you could call it, since the dream realm and mortal realm are two different dimensions all in itself. By consequential miracle, the dream helped her psyche to relax, and she was getting better by the minute. She'll be up and ready in no time, but not too quickly.
Mood: Sleeping peacefully. . . Condition: Getting better; still a bit cold	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Sat Sep 28, 2013 6:09 pm

Zurok Mia Takamatzu	Zurok was a devilishly patient woman who was more than willing to wait a little bit if it got her what she wanted. In this case, she just wanted to ensure that Allora would wake up and not go into a coma or something. So far, the odds favored that chance. she made sure that her clothes would not cause her to wake up in a cold sweat, and otherwise, made sure that the tea she had been preparing would still be warm without being too hot. She ran a few of her fingers gently across the lower part of Allora's jawline, ensuring both that she was warm and that she had a pulse. since she had both, Zurok sat back down, basically just waiting for her to wake back up. It seemed that unsurprisingly, she had succeeded in this case. it would only be a couple more minutes.
Mood: Interested Condition: Perfect	Link:

Subject: Re: A Healer's Assistant Sat Sep 28, 2013 6:20 pm

Allora	Patience was a virtue when it came to a recovering fourteen year old. Luckily, the immunology system that is pre-engraved inside of her body -- like in all humans, who have it, unless they suffer from a disease that tackles that natural part of recovery -- was on her side, more than ever. Her dreams ceased, and her body shook momentarily, as if she had fallen off or out of something. Soon enough, her eyes began to open, and for the first few seconds, she couldn't move much of her body. It's as if she was in a trance, or suffering from some kind of sleep paralysis. It was an out of body experience at first. She could see a few things gliding above her, a strange mixture of pterodactyls and and something else. She posed no resistance, and her half-open eyes just stared into the nothingness that was the ceiling. In the mean time, she began to scold herself of her imprudence, and she promised herself that she would never lead herself down a rocky road like this without proper assurance. Whatever had flared inside of her in that moment was white hot, and she liked the feeling of it, but being irresponsible in the process was not a very good pro. The pros and cons weighed heavily in on themselves with her decisions. For the time being, she didn't move a single muscle, but it can be assumed that she was now fully conscious, fingers moving, eyes slowly shifting around, trying to get accustomed to the new environment she was situated in.
Mood: Blank. Very blank. We just don't know. Condition: Much better; possibly in a subtle and minor sleep paralysis	Link: