Puppeteer

Golden Hills Estates.

Located near one of Manta Carlos' many beaches (it's an island, after all), the Golden Hills Estates was one of the nicest private neighborhoods on the island. Many of the island's more affluent families would live in the area due to being close enough to the city to enjoy the many amenities while also being far enough away to have peace without the hustle and bustle that cities live with. One such house that resides within this esteemed community is that of the somewhat enigmatic Asteria Vrall. Asteria has held property on the island for a long while, although she is gone off-island rather frequently in pursuit of... something. No one is quite sure exactly what she looks for but it is assumed some form of magical artifact as she can be seen at the museum of magical items, often with boxes in tow. There are many rumors about her that circulate, including that the small house atop the long driveway is actually massive inside due to a complex arcane spell, or that the flowers that line the driveway will come alive and drag you off the property if you try to sneak in.

However, the most interesting rumor is that of the new resident in the Vrall household. People have seen a black cat wandering in and out of the gate frequently, dressed in the academy uniform. This isn't exactly an uncommon occurrence, however. No, the mystery resides in the humanoid figure that is occasionally seen entering and exiting the black iron gate clad in long clothing and a beanie which seems to disguise their appearance. Some in the neighborhood are concerned at this mysterious individual, but most agree that if it's related to Asteria, it's probably best to just not worry about it.

The subject of that rumor was getting ready for a guest that day, still unaware of the odd notions that others nearby had about them. Ezra had gotten the kettle out, ready to brew tea if so requested. A small plate of cheese, crackers, and deli meats had been set on the table, as well as a small bottle of ghost pepper hot sauce. It was not often that they had guests come over, but this guest was very special. They had met Miss Shay at the community center during one of Ezra's wanderings and had spoken briefly. The two had met again later by happenstance, and the discussion of the spirit's power and why they used a cat puppet came up. Miss Shay had offered to assist Ezra in working on control of the abilities, and they quickly agreed. The school was still having a little difficulty finding a suitable mentor for Ezra's powers, so the fact that Miss Shay had offered had been perfectly timed. Quickly giving the young woman instructions to their current abode, the two parted ways with promises to meet and discuss the training.

Adjusting the dark power restricting band on their wrist once again to make sure it was secure, the spirit looked to the front door once more. They were waiting for the intercom buzz to signal that someone was out front, and they could only hope that it was Miss Shay.

@Sarrain

She had arrived quicker than Ezra had anticipated. Early arrivals were good, though. That either showed excitement or curiosity for the task at hand, which was always a positive. Ushering Shay towards the rather large and sleek black couch in what one would call the 'living room', they would quickly motion towards the platter of food on the table as well as point out the restroom if it was needed. "Miss Shay, the food here is for you to enjoy and to help you relax before we begin with this power control lesson. I am curious at how it will go as we have yet to have our abilities meet but I have a guess that it will result in a positive interaction."


They adjusted the power restriction bracelet on their wrist and stood still for a moment, as if in thought. "As far as the plan for this goes, I want to make sure you are relaxed as possible before I take off my power restrictor. If your emotional level is out of sorts, it could negatively affect me, and therefore, you. Once we start, we will go slowly and if you are concerned for your mental state, notify me immediately so I can replace the bracelet. Before we begin, though, may I get you something to drink?"

"Alright then, if you are sure."

This was the more challenging part. Ezra had always been very cautious when using their powers near other people. They were not worried when using them around Miss Asteria because of the year they had spent together prior to moving to the island, and with Salem, they hadn't had to expose anyone else to the emotional bonding. This would be a careful test, and they would clasp the power cancelling bracelet the moment Miss Shay felt anything off.

"I am going to take my restrictor off now, if you feel any sort of extended discomfort, please alert me immediately. Miss Asteria described the feeling as being enveloped by a sheet before it settles, so do not panic if you feel a presence initially."

With a very careful maneuver, Ezra removed the restriction bracelet and placed it in their pocket. The aura immediately spread through the room and would wrap around Shay quickly. A feeling of overwhelming pressure would be present for a moment before settling down immediately. As the spirit took a seat across from the woman, they gave a long exhale.

"Miss Shay, how are you feeling?"

As the two connected, a wave of... calm rushed over the spirit. Ezra had experienced this feeling before when working with Asteria, but even then, the level of tranquility that Shay was displaying seemed much more serene in comparison to their guardian's. Watching the woman relax into her seat, they could feel their own body seem to go limp in the feeling. They adjusted how they were seated and listened intently as she spoke, doing their best to focus while comprehending the emotions they were feeling.

"I would prefer we wait and let the connection settle before you attempt to use your ability in conjunction with mine. I do not know what adverse effects could occur if we start mixing emotion-based powers and I would rather not have to explain to Miss Asteria why her house was destroyed before she got home. But what exactly is your ability, Miss Shay?"

Ezra took a deep breath before leaning forward and staring directly at Shay. "Also, for our first test, I need you to think of happy thoughts. Perhaps talk about a simple happy moment in your life. We will likely do this for a few different feelings so be prepared."