escordvi | << september: maiden voyage >>

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<< september: maiden voyage >>

Welcome to our Maiden Voyage log for the game! Because the grand opening is a bit different from how things will normally flow, the log is more like an event log with the MANTA Board included at the bottom. The focus of the log will be everyone getting a first taste of the home base for each armada, but not before having a farewell celebration in Eltrut to the new initiates! Since it is a little beefy, we've included navigation links to help jump between sections.

Players are welcome to use the MANTA Board as additional prompts in the log, or create your own open logs for them. There is no wrong or right way, whatever is most convenient for you.

If you have any questions about the log, comment here. If you have questions about the game in general, please comment to the Game Info.

TOPLEVEL DIRECTORY (Updated September 13)

ELTRUT: FAREWELL SENDOFF

It's been about a week or so since the newest batch of riftfarers arrived, and now the ships are ready to take them to their native armada base. But before everyone goes their separate ways, a special "sendoff" is held for the new initiates. Hosted by older, veteran riftfarers and their respective armada affiliation, two major competitions are held. One is to promote partnership between the armadas, the other is for their competitiveness.

A fan favorite for a number of years now, Legends of the Gutsy Ultimate Sailor Warrior Competition is a massive two-person obstacle course that has a whole suite of challenges to test sailor's physical and mental resolve…and teamwork. The only real rule is each pair needs one Corsair and one Paladin, which can be made voluntarily or randomly. Along with crossing a pool via spinning logs, swinging and climbing ropes, and plummeting down ziplines, there are a few notable obstacles teams will need to get through.

🚪 Steering a giant ship's wheel in order to lift the door to the next obstacle. Both partners need to take turns, one spinning it upwards and the other continuing down.
🦑 They must piece together the three parts of the Silver Squid Statue, fitting each piece properly and vertically together (have to hear the snap to ensure the pieces connected!) and then placed it into a hole in a door to move on.
⛰️ The final obstacle is called Mount Grog, where the team must climb to the peak of this hill of craggy stone. While there are footholes aplenty, there are also steam vents, "landslides" of small boulder-shaped pillows, and warm "lava" of red-dyed ale, making the terrain slippery and sticky! Mind the steam and ale, they are made of strong liquor and may make those with low tolerance a bit…intoxicated.
🐱‍👤 While some are free to spectate and cheer in the audience, others may volunteer to try and sabotage the rest of the competition by chucking wilted produce, or if you're really lucky, the showrunners will pull you from the audience to hit switches to change up the layout of the map mid-race!

The second event is Capture the Flag and takes place along a long stretch of beach using the remains of two retired ships on either end: one with each of the three masts flying a red flag, the other with three blue flags. Each player will have a small flag of their armada colors attached to a belt on their waist, along with a few very full colored water balloons. The goal is to steal as many of the other team's flags as possible and bring them back to their ship before the hourglass runs out. The only rule is no magic allowed! Have to use good ol' wit and grit. All magic will be suppressed and all weapons taken/forced to be left behind.

💧 Everyone is armed with water balloons of their respective team color. Use them to pelt your opponents and get that flag!
🚩 Some may want to try and score big by capturing one of the ship's flags. But it won't be easy. There will be a "crew" defending their ships and will have cannons filled with giant water balloons, sticky nets, and life preserver rings to deploy against attackers. They can also use the rings to quickly grab their own teammates and pull them to safety.
⛓ There is a jail that caught opponents can be taken to right next to the ship. Either escape, help a caught teammate, or defend it!

After another night of reveling in various taverns (and likely getting into more bar fights), everyone will set sail the following morning, with or without the hangovers. Everyone should be prepared to pitch in their weight, as during the trip, they will learn how to be a deckhand, learning the literal ropes of pitching sails, swabbing decks, and working the galley. There could be other areas they might have access to if they have the skill for it. They will also have a chance to practice their magic. Don't worry, the ships are fitted with special protection that even a stray spell won't cause too much damage (though if it does, they better be prepared to repair and clean it up). And since it will take a few days to get to their respective leviathans, everyone should remember their temporary cabin number. Some may even have roommates.

But the number one rule for both ships is no fighting between members. Save it for when they're back on shore!

ELAH: PALADIN BASE

Compared to the bright colors and bustle of Eltrut, Elah is much more refined and orderly, especially the capital city of Baleen. Tall, sturdy buildings of polished marble and white coral with accents of gold and mother-of-pearl, set in tiered, orderly rings of sandstone-cobbled streets organized by purpose and class. The higher it is, the more affluent, with the Chambers of Council seated at its highest point. Yet there is very little to no poverty, as the citizens are diligent in keeping everything clean and everyone taken care of. That isn't to say there aren't "dirty" parts of the city…but for the most part it's a prosperous, bustling city that takes pride not only in its Paladin force, but in the arts and pursuit of higher education and research. High above one may see gondolas seemingly sailing in the air, but they are just riding the "breath streams'' of Elah that connect to the three blowholes spiracles lining the leviathan's back. In the distant north, one may even catch a glimpse of the main blowhole spiracle releasing a huge stream of water. Access is currently under construction, but new riftfarers will be able to access it soon.

At the center is the city's pride and joy: the Plaza Fontea. Around the outer rim are daily markets and performers to help cultivate the arts and casual business, and there are a number of gardens and ponds for visitors to relax and enjoy. And at its center is a grand mosaic in the great whale's image with a series of "water spouts" that shoot water up through the ground, sometimes to music. However, something is amiss. Without warning, the water is turning different colors and making fart noises. While anyone who might know some engineering is free to help those beneath the fountain to try and figure out what happened and repair it, others can try and catch the culprits who pulled this deplorable prank (hint, bunch of Corsairs, of course).

At the Nodding Kettle, there are some special items that new Paladins can receive. These items are also available on the Rewards Shop, but new members can choose one for free. These items are also special in that they will start at a basic level, but can be upgraded and refined for better effects (for a fee).

🔪 Dowsing Blade: Lvl 1. A short sword that once fully upgraded can find special treasures and precious metals. At level 1, it will only find junk, but who knows? One man's trash is another man's treasure. And rusted metal can still hurt in a fight—
🫧 Bubble Shield: Lvl 1. A shield that will grow in size and strength once fully upgraded and provide protection in the form of a dome. At level 1, it creates a small bubble that covers a small area next to the user and can only take a few hits before it pops.
🔦 Wayfinder Torch: Lvl 1. A torch that burns brighter and can illuminate and find any path to a designated location or exit once fully upgraded. At level 1, it can only illuminate up to a few feet and must be charged with magic to continue.

The educational district is one of the many prides and joys of Elah, and especially the block containing the sprawling, U-shaped Archives framing the massive, gold-framed glass dome of the Conservatory. The core of the Archives is a blocky building of very weathered marble, with two longer and more slender wings; nearly every room inside is dedicated to some sort of specialized library, lecture hall, laboratory, or archaeological restoration room. The Conservatory, meanwhile, is teeming with the rarest of plants, flocks of birds, skittering reptiles, and even small artificial tide pools hosting reef-dwelling fauna and small schools of fish. As new members explore the complex, they may find the new items will come in handy for their tasks.

📖 There's been intel of Corsairs targeting the Archives for their next heist, especially the special collection in the library. Newer Paladins will be asked to guard the library in shifts and keep an eye out for anyone suspicious.
🦤 Oh no, Angus the Dodo has escaped the conservatory again! Capture him and bring him back unharmed. Thankfully he's peaceful and not very smart, but he is easily startled and surprisingly fast. He's a glutton for fruit, nuts, and seeds, and he's infamous for stealing fancy hats, especially if they have feathers on them.
🏰 Reports have come in of a nearby island with ruins of an ancient castle standing on them. Venture out, document the site, and retrieve any artifacts for proper cataloging at the Archives before the Corsairs break or steal anything important.

NOGARD: CORSAIR BASE

While Eltrut and Elah both have relatively smooth surfaces to build on, Nogard's back is covered in jutting ridges and spines. Between the uneven terrain, the transformation between Nogard's living sea form and skeletal land form, and the demon-ridden forest, structures here focus much more on defense and ease of repair or relocation as needed than on matching a set theme. Buildings in Fang are made from a mishmash of old metal, driftwood, and bone, but are often decorated with bright murals and graffiti, drapes of colorful fabrics, and intricate sea glass creations. Taverns and pubs can be found on nearly every corner, loud music and cheers and more than occasionally the sounds of a brawl pouring out from about noon to the wee hours of the morning.

Currently Nogard has settled on a remote island, its skeletal structure nestled deep within the island's cove, creating a natural barrier that will only allow Corsair ships in and out. They will be there for a while, taking advantage of the beasts that inhabit the island and provide valuable materials to be sold. But of course it can get boring, so it's not surprising to see the more "reckless" ziplining from one curved rib to another high above the city. There are also some makeshift fighting arenas for members to test their strength. Those who prefer to actually learn about Nogard's current settlement set out to canvas and explore the island, hoping to find some other ruins or resources that could be useful.

At the Leviathan's Maw, there are some special items that new Corsairs can receive. These items are also available on the Rewards Shop, but new members can choose one for free. These items are also special in that they will start at a basic level, but can be upgraded and refined for better effects (for a fee).

🧥 Camouflage Cloak: Lvl 1. A cloak that once upgraded will allow the wearer to shift and blend into their surroundings. At level 1, it's a bit ratty looking and only useful if hiding in shadows. Even then it's only for a few seconds, but better than none.
🔁 Ring of Returning: Lvl 1. A ring that once upgraded will allow the wearer to return to a specific location upon activation. At level 1, it can only be used once per day and returns you to a public space.
🔀 Ring of Evasion: Lvl 1. A ring that once upgraded will allow the wearer to have increased movement speed and dodging ability. At level 1, it is only effective in avoiding small objects and getting through crowds easier. Not useful for combat until upgraded.

While there are some "respectable" stores and merchants around Nogard, the Black Market is what the city of Fang is best known for. And as part of their initiation, new members are sent to the literal underbelly of the leviathan's skeletal remains where the Black Market exists. Those new free items offered by the Leviathan's Maw may be useful…

💍 Several sellers have put up requests for certain "special rare items" to help restock their wares, but these items are "special" and "rare" for a reason. From needing to kill monsters on the island Nogard has settled on and harvesting for certain materials, to stealing from certain ships and rich houses in Elah (oops).
🏰 On a certain island, there are some castle ruins that has been recently discovered and there are some artifacts and relics that could catch a hefty price if brought back. Just ignore the Paladins who may be excavating…and perhaps take their finds.
📦 Some merchants have special wares that need to be delivered to their clients all over Nogard and on some neighboring islands. Of course, there are many others who might try to steal it…whatever is inside it. Wait—did the box just shake? What, protect the package and deliver it safely!

MANTA BOARD

As mentioned above, usually the Quest Board will be posted separately as we won't normally have logs like these. But for everyone's convenience, we've included it here for additional prompts. Players can either use the quest board here in their toplevels, or create their own open log for them if they prefer to keep it separate and spread things out more.

GENERAL

PALADINS

CORSAIRS

BOUNTIES

𝕊ℙ𝔼ℂ𝕀𝔸𝕃𝕊

» GENERAL (4pts)

Dockside Repairs

Reward: 100 dubloons and a serving of cinnamon sugar grog for each day of hard work.

A recent tempestuous storm wreaked havoc upon Eltrut’s main port, leaving many of its docks in dire need of repair.

We are seeking dedicated workers to lend a helping hand in restoring the damaged docks. We encourage those with specialized abilities in carpentry, construction, or any related field (magic, physical or otherwise) to join in the collective effort to repair the docks as soon as possible.

As we are not sure how many newcomers we will have in the future we must restore the port to its former glory, ensuring it serves as a steadfast foundation for our maritime activities! Please help out!

Seahorse Whisperers

Reward: 100 dubloons and a seahorse charm that allows you to bond with gentle sea creatures easily. Doesn’t appear to work well on the angry ones.

Atnam Island has been graced with the arrival of a spirited new batch of young seahorses.

These magnificent creatures are wild and energetic and difficult to tame. We are seeking daring individuals who are up to the challenge of calming and training these giant temperamental seahorses to become reliable and majestic mounts in the water.

Those who dare to embark on this training journey will be rewarded for their efforts. Alongside the profound satisfaction of witnessing the growth and development of these magnificent creatures, you will receive a special token of appreciation for your successful training.

Caviar Conundrum

Reward: 100 dubloons and one tin of orange lanternfish caviar. The caviar itself is said to induce vivid lucid dreams.

A fresh shipment of rare live orange lanternfish has arrived.

There are barrels of them ready to be harvested for their delicious caviar. We are looking for able hands to help collect the fish eggs from this rare fish. You’ll be equipped with the buckets and scoops needed.

However, be forewarned, for these fish are highly territorial and possess a potent electrical bite. Slowly navigating their space and avoiding their electrifying defences will require careful strategy and patience. The tales caution that even a single bite from these remarkable creatures can induce paralysis lasting an hour.

Woody Rarities

Reward: 100 dubloons and a piece of crystal wood that faintly glows when it is about to rain.

A cluster of ancient trees has piqued curiosity, as they appear to defy nature's laws by remaining dry during rainfall.

This phenomenon has caught the attention of keen observers, and we now seek crafty individuals to investigate further.

Venture to the tops of hills or mountains on Eltrut Island and examine these remarkable trees, and gather samples of their purportedly waterproof bark and wood for thorough testing. If proven true, this extraordinary property could revolutionize shipbuilding techniques and open new horizons for maritime exploration.

Bottle Voyage!

Reward: Probably some bad advice. Or a love letter. Or maybe a new friend?

Have you heard of messages in a bottle?

Embrace the sea's powerful enchantment! Pen a heartfelt letter, place it in a glass bottle and release it into the ocean's waves to see what happens.

Rumour has it that within three days, the bottle will return to you with a reply. Discover personal advice, fortunes, or messages from far away. Perhaps even find a lifelong pen pal through this method! Unleash your heartfelt words into the water and let the sea work its wonders!

Results may vary. (Optional: For added flavour attempt posting your bottle message to a random character's inbox.)

» PALADINS (4pts)

Paws of Valor

Reward: A voucher for a free dagger at The Nodding Kettle: Blacksmith and Wares.

Hello, aspiring recruits! We are in need of your assistance to gather iron ore at the local mines, a vital resource for crafting cannonballs to fortify the armada. Although the task at hand may be arduous, it is of utmost importance!

However, we must provide one gentle warning. One of our captains recently lost his pet wildcat, Whiskerbeard, and she has been left to roam freely. Whiskerbeard has a mischievous streak and enjoys playing pranks on new recruits. While she may pose a playful challenge during your ore collection, we trust that you young and agile newcomers will find ways to work around her more violent antics. Please do not harm her or your coin will be cut in half for an entire month!

Five Finger Discount-inued

Reward: The sheer satisfaction of doing the right thing.

Reports have emerged of pickpockets and thieves falling victim to a frustrated shop owner–turned–vigilante, resulting in severed fingers and a growing stain on the Paladin’s reputation for maintaining order among the various port marketplaces.

In order to address this issue and uphold the principles of justice, we need your expertise to delve into the local shops and uncover the truth behind these vigilante actions. It is crucial to identify the shop owner responsible as well as apprehend any theives and restore a sense of balance and fairness to the markets.

However, it is essential to approach this investigation with a focus on fairness and adherence to the law. Our aim is to ensure a just and lawful resolution, and a few fewer fingers being cut off, including yours.

Chasing Tuna Titans

Reward: A casket of fine wine. The bigger the fish, the bigger the casket.

The recent influx of newcomers has led to an increased demand for foodstuffs, placing a strain on our hardworking fishermen. To aid them in meeting these demands, the fishermen have requested assistance from the Paladin's vessels to catch a fresh supply of large tuna fish until new fishermen can be trained.

Join the fishing ships in procuring a bountiful supply of giant tuna fish. Be prepared for the challenge, for these magnificent creatures can grow to sizes ranging from sixty pounds to a staggering four hundred pounds. Good luck reeling them in!

» CORSAIRS (4pts)

Traded Secrets

Reward: A recipe for a dubious-looking soup made to be highly addictive and whatever else you steal from the ship.

There is a popular merchant ship that sells soup out of its main deck that is travelling the seas lately. Its tantalising flavours have ignited such fervent desire that people are willing to engage in battles and even sink ships to secure a coveted bowl. And you’ll be damned if you don’t get a bowl of it before it’s all gone! Find the secrets behind the renowned travelling ship's irresistibly delectable soup!

Surely, there has to be a trick to it. Begin by infiltrating the merchant’s ship, whether by legitimate means or through becoming a discreet passenger and find out what that secret ingredient is. What makes this soup so tantalising that people are willing to give someone a black eye to get it. Is it a frog's legs? Eye of newt? Some kind of illegal drug? Paprika?

Unconventional Couture

Reward: A silk dress of your choice and a pocket gun that can be concealed in a boot.

A renowned mistress from the lantern light district in Naughtilust seeks diverse bodies to showcase her exquisite collection of rare silks and gowns. Don’t worry, she disregards conventional standards and welcomes individuals of any body type or gender, recognizing the beauty in diversity. The more types the better, actually!

However, it is imperative to maintain utmost discretion, as these precious garments were acquired through unconventional means (they were stolen). This gathering is intended for a select group of haughty guests who will appreciate the opulence and allure of these clandestine treasures. So keep it hush-hush! There are dubloons to be squeezed!

Pickpocketing Practice

Reward: A lesson learned for every pocket picked.

With the influx of new scallywags on our shores, the Corsair ships have taken it upon themselves to impart their expertise in the art of pickpocketing. If you're ready to master the craft and enhance your acting, lying, and sleight-of-hand skills, then step forward and join their pickpocketing seminars!

Under the guidance of experienced Corsairs, you'll learn the tricks of the trade, honing your abilities to make a quick dubloon when navigating crowded streets or lively gatherings.

Remember, with great power comes great responsibility. As you venture out to test your newfound skills, exercise caution and subtlety. A successful pickpocket knows the importance of being undetected. The Corsairs will not come to your aid should you find yourself hanging around in the gallows. Or losing a few fingers.

» BOUNTIES (6pts)

Giga Mantis Shrimp

Reward: 500 dubloons.

Said to be as large as a horse with a sting as powerful as a hundred stinging jellyfish. This creature has somehow grown larger than most other mantis shrimp and it has been hunting down and eating the heads of male prey. Find this creature in the ocean and kill it before it hunts and eats more innocent sailors.

Read More.

✦ Size: Medium
✦ Type: Sea creature
✦ Strengths: Powerful pincers, Swift swimmer, Carnivorous, Stinging spines
✦ Weaknesses: Lightning, Sharp weapons, Piercing weapons

Horned Dolphin

Reward: 1000 dubloons. An extra 500 dubloons for the horn.

A rare dolphin with a strange magical glowing horn has been sighted in the ocean. Although some of the rumours are saying that the dolphin is merely a lost narwhal. It seems to only appear when the weather is foggy which makes it particularly difficult to find. Find it and record proof of its existence or kill it and farm the horn for an extra bounty.

Read More.

✦ Size: Large
✦ Type: Sea creature
✦ Strengths: Light magic, Swift swimmer, Omnivourous, Peaceful
✦ Weaknesses: Wind magic, Darkness magic, Blunt weapons

» SPECIALS (12pts)

None

Reward: None

No special quests at this time.

Threaded | Top-Level Comments Only

[He doffs that big fancy plumed hat and sweeps into an extremely extra bow.]

Jarlaxle, good sir, at your service. And it is the utmost pleasure to meet you, Toge.

I hope this new world has been treating you fairly since you arrived.

[Look at him, pretty much a model member of society now, drinks all around. The hat was swept off to be used as a makeshift fan, though the drow hardly looked too warm. Chances were it was simply theatrics but also, it was a tighter race than he'd expected.]

You're an excellent sport, Xenk. Undoubtedly one of the better one's I've had the pleasure of competing against. What a fine race indeed.

[He placed the hat back on his head and took the offered hand for a quick and firm shake. Oh no, they're going to complete this course, he can't leave anything half done, and once he was through with the handshake he went to place it upon the wheel.]

Once we're through here, of course! We can't leave a job half finished after all. Push upwards upon it if you will, I'll follow through downwards.

[Because between the two of them, he was fairly certain Xenk would have better luck with getting that momentum started.]

[ An ear flicks as he hears someone settling in right next to him. Granted, he can hardly tell if there is any jesting in her tone or if her demeanor is just like that in general. G'raha's not sure which one he would prefer in this situation either. Would it be better to be teased or if the comment is made in all seriousness?

The very tip of his tail twitches in response. Like a cat still trying to decide if this is an annoyance or something tolerable a little longer. ]

I suppose I should be grateful for that at least.

[ A small sigh escapes his lips. Then his gaze shifts from looking out at all of the individuals gathered here and to the woman next to him. She seems rather familiar with all of this. Or perhaps she is just better at masking such emotions. ]

You seem rather at ease with the situation.

Yeah, I know that's the point.

[But Zack can't help but crave a little action every now and then. Since he's been here he's been able to stretch his wings a lot without certain issues weighing him down so consider him a little... eager.

But not only that- Zack gives Cloud a glance. It would probably give Zack an idea of where Cloud is...]

What about you, though? If some guys tried to break in here it looks like you could handle yourself without me around.

[Zack is already learning very quickly that this place has a thing with sea creatures. From sea slugs to sea horses there's everything that he could ever imagine. Some of them get killed for slime and some of them get trained as water mounts. It's all coming together.

Although, Zack looks slightly unsure as he crosses his arms.]

I don't know, how the hell are we supposed to catch anything in the water that's meant to swim fast? We're just people with arms and legs. And those things have tails and fins.

[This is going to be interesting.]

[Zack didn't think he'd have a reason to visit this kind of island for anything soon but curiosity and the thrill of exploration makes Zack head that way anyway. There's a bunch of random taverns and all of those lantern-lit brothels but at this point, Zack is too much of a newcomer to really understand what any of those lanterns mean. He's not an idiot, though. He knows they're brothels.

Wandering into a random one he happens to come across the one where a certain gown showcase is going on. He's greeted by an array of happy ladies who are happy to coo and smile at him and offer him drinks and light food fare.]

What's going on here tonight, some kind of fashion show?

[Hey. Could be fun?]

[And her silence does indeed speak volumes, confirming his suspicions. Yet instead of feeling relief, happy, or even satisfaction from it, it only tears into those wounded feelings. Digs into the confusion as he continues to be pulled one way and another.]

You call me a liar, but you're no better, Benedikta.

[His voice is strained as he continues to stare harshly at her before he finally takes another step towards her, tossing the phone back to the bed as be closes the distance between them again.]

You say nothing's changed, but then do this—well what is it then?

[He knows he's coming onto her strong, but at this point he's too pissed off and upset to care—or maybe this is the way it needs to be done. He has so many things he wants to say, so many things he wants to ask her—]

Do you still want me or not?

[Yet what comes out is that instead, and there's a weight of emotion even he didn't know he could carry in those words. Rather than anger, it's almost desperate, as if this one question would determine their fate. Would determine whether he should keep pushing or just quit.

He's not even asking about love. Everything was just a bloody mess between them that just a reconciliation could be a miraculous victory. But if there was anything still there, anything that could be born again from those ashes... If she held anything genuine, a sign that she wanted out of that hole she was dragged down into...

Come back to me, Cidolfus. I need you.

Those words haunted him after her death. At the time and the context, he just assumed it was her usual ploy to get him back to their side. That it had no real meaning whatsoever, so he discarded it as meaningless. But now, he wonders. Wonders if there had been a different meaning, one she may or may not have been aware of.

Needed... Wanted. They sound so similar yet can mean so many different things. And it could always be both.

So what he wants to know is if she actually wants him as himself, needs him like some tool...or both. Wants him because without him she no longer feels whole and needs him to fill that space. To have that support. That kind of need he would gladly fill.

And he doesn't really expect much of an answer, but if there was any kind of sign... Anything at all to hint at the truth...]

[Zack is made for hiking trips too. He doesn't mind the walk up into the more mountainous areas of Eltrut. As a paladin, he's into the idea of helping out with work and research but he doesn't know a thing or two about actually researching anything. But he's happy to help where he can anyway! Even if it's with lugging some logs down a mountain.]

I couldn't tell you the difference between an oak and a pine, but these things are pretty damn majestic, huh.

[Zack places his hands on his hips.]

[Likewise, Zack is kind of like a dog chomping at the bit. He always has to keep constantly moving, constantly working, or the shitty thoughts start in his head. Better not to think at all and just keep working.

Being a paladin on a ship isn't half bad, too. The work is fulfilling and the people are good and interesting. He hasn't had to kick too many corsairs in the ass yet, either.]

You looking for something to do too, man?

[He grins wolfishly at the other as he approaches and asks that. There's nothing he likes more than like-minded people who want to keep up.]

I heard there's a bunch of savage sea creatures in the water. Have you ever heard of a mantis shrimp? A giga one?

[Somehow Zack has let himself wander into Naughtilust as well and he was only planning on being a sightseer at first. Only to wander his ass into one of those lantern-lit brothels for what appears to be a showcase of some sort. He thinks some of the working ladies must think he's got deep pockets and/or a paladin is just the right target for this kind of thing.

It could be kind of fun, he thinks. He's got some sort of bitter drink in his hand and he can check out the place. It's not a bad thing to let loose, and all.

But he almost spits his drink entirely out of his lips when he notices a certain red-headed cat man ... dressed to the nines.]

Holy hell--

[Don't mind him as he coughs his lungs out for a second.]

I. Dock Repair [Eltrut]

[Miriam was hardly a brawny dockhand, but she was still stronger than she appeared. Stronger still was the giant hand hovering behind her like an obedient hound made of shattered glass, dragging a pallet stacked with lumber and barrels of nails. The boards Miriam carried over her shoulder were just the last few that kept teetering off the pile.

The Shardbinder glanced back to make sure everything was still on said pallet, and in doing so—the boards she carried clunked against something person-shaped. Mortified, Miriam turned back—narrowly avoiding smacking into them again.]

Oh, no—I'm very sorry! I didn't see you there.

II. Benny Hill Theme Intensifies [Elah]

[While Miriam wasn't one to shy away from protecting things, standing all the time on guard duty did get a bit stifling after awhile. Before her second shift had ended (uneventfully), she'd summoned a sprite to accompany her, pinkish and small enough to sit on Miriam's shoulder.

The moment the shift was over, though—that dodo had gotten loose again, from the sound of things. The bird even dashed in front of Miriam, an outlandish hat in its beak. Carabosse launched from Miriam's shoulder like a loosed falcon, and the dodo startled away with a squawk, dropping the hat—which the fairy promptly scooped up, chittering in fascination. The Shardbinder took off after the bird, who wanted nothing at all to do with the situation as he booked it down the hallway just as quickly.

The fairy creature caught up first, with the benefit of wings. She quickly overtook Miriam, darting ahead of the dodo—still wearing the hat, which caught the bird's attention.

But, being a familiar didn't change an impish fairy's nature. The pixie tittered madly as she sailed away down the hallway, hat held tight to her head and the dodo madly chasing the hat—and Miriam at the end of the procession, exasperatedly trying to catch up.]

Get back here—!

[Send help, this is embarrassing.]

III. Artifact Fetch Quest

[Being tasked with exploring a castle secluded on an island put Miriam...a bit more on-edge than she wanted to admit. But these ruins were only silent and empty. They felt a bit melancholy, really.

Once she got to work, though, any unease the Shardbinder felt was easy enough to outpace. And picking over ruins for abandoned treasures was something she was quite used to by now.

Of course, Miriam often went off on her own away from the crew of Paladin researchers she'd come with, following Carabosse about. When on...better behavior, the little pixie seemed to have quite the knack for finding hidden things, though most of them were passageways Miriam hadn't noticed.

Stumbling onto others was inevitable, with so many interested in these ruins—for varying reasons. But Miriam kept her response polite, no matter the uniform on the person she encountered.]

Find anything?

[Wildcard]

[Hidden extra option if you'd like a closed prompt or a modified version of one of the event prompts! My CR post is here if you want to hash things out more.]

[He moves towards her and she moves back, but with nowhere to escape, she only finds herself in the same spot again—with her backed into a corner with no place to run. No way out. The only way she can go is to him, and even now, she wants to refuse.

Even now, as his question rattles her down to her soul, she wants to refuse.

But she knows that even if she did, even if she tried with all her might to deny any of it, all of the evidence is right there. He has taken her and laid her out, bared her completely. Opened her up like a book in that infuriating way he does. He's slipped under her skin and right into her bones that ache under the weight of him. Found the cracks in her foundation and plans to tear her down...

He both knows her best and knows nothing at all, and she hates him for it.

She hates that in his company, she is a right fucking mess. Confused, conflicted, in love and full of hate, stung by betrayal and yet her heart yearns for him, for his closeness and his support, for his validation... yearns to fill that void that he left there... fill it with him.

Yes, she fucking wants him back. Needs him. It had been obvious in the way she screamed and cried when he left. Obvious in how she begged him to come back to her, had it not? His accusations had stung then, too, but she couldn't voice the truth. Never mind how difficult it has been, why would she, if he wasn't going to believe her anyway?

As her chest moves with that same rapid-fire rhythm that it had before to keep up, she can feel something hot and wet burning around the edges of her eyes, and as she stares at him, her vision begins to blur. Tears? Benedikta slams her eyes shut, violently wrestling them back.

And in the moment that she opens them again, she sees not Cidolfus standing in front of her, but Barnabas, his gaze that deep, boundless void, masked by the detachment he so often wears. Never has she felt as useless as she had trying to parse what he was feeling, what he was thinking... but this figure that stands before her... She can see it clearly.

The anger. The hurt. The betrayal. The threat. And in her, a fear striken that only the Dominant of Odin could leave behind.

There's a familiar pull, as if that image of him pulls on those chains, and in her ears, she can hear them rattle. Those shackles bound tighter around her and him... And that voice—the King's voice—reminds her of who it is that gave her that power, that security.

Reminds her who it is that could destroy all she holds dear with a single flourish of his blade.

Including her.

In a single blink, the image of him in her mind's eye is gone as quickly as he appeared, and she is left staring across the room at Cid again, her hands trembling as she wraps herself up in her own arms.]

I... B-Barnabas...

[She doesn't mean for his name to slip out of her like that, and she breaks it off with a gasp, wishing that she could take it back.

And immediately, she goes on the defensive again.]

That's not—get out...!

[ So he might have been trying to keep out of sight. Keep his head down sort of thing. Maybe if he does that then there won't be any attention drawn his way. But his luck is not so great after all. Because his ears pick up the sound of just two words. Two words following by a string of coughing.

And thus does G'raha look up. His mortification is forgotten for a moment as he sees a familiar face. How had this man discovered this place? A mystery, truly. Never mind that, considering G'raha is crossing the distance. ]

Are you quite all right?

[ G'raha's tail is swishing back and forth almost violently. He's... Actually very into this. Everything about this atmosphere is bringing out his younger self. Oh it is a very quick escalation into the brat that he had been prior to the events of the Crystal Tower.

Which means he is quite ready to go and win if at all possible. ]

That is what it seems to be, yes. How about I go up while you go down?

[ As long as they aren't transporting anything nefarious, G'raha hardly minds tagging along. Though that loud thumb has him turning around in the carriage. ]

You don't suppose that it is still alive?

Quite so.

[ The voice comes from further up. G'raha is sitting upon one of the branches, looking down. He would say that he hadn't meant to eavesdrop or interject, but - ]

It could also lead to the extinction of such unique trees as well.

[He just wants her to say one word, say one word so that he could just put everything to rest and take her in his arms like he used to. Just bring her back to him. But the longer she takes and just stares at him, those seconds feel like hours and he can feel his patience straining and starting to snap. Seconds that allow doubt to sink in again, memories and reasons why they're so broken to begin with returning. Her tears do stir him, and there's the instinct to reach out and wipe them away.

...Like he wiped away those tears of blood, one last time.

He sees her, afraid. Retreating back in her corner and again he's reminded of how he first found her so scared and afraid. Distrustful. Just like he did then, he recognizes it, knows he's the cause of it. But unlike back then he could easily just step in and pull her out, be that "hero," the "savior" for her. But can he really say the same now? Does she truly see him as more of the villain of her life...?

Yet, the name that tumbles out of her name makes him stiffen, and she'll see clearly how his eyes widen, how the entire air tenses as if it could crack as he stops breathing for a moment.

Of all the...

Of all the people she could be thinking of now—!

It was the last pin that could shatter everything—the last straw that would just make him leave her and be done with everything—

You, of all people... you should know what Barnabas can do. What he would do...

If I am to survive, I—

I am not living in fear. I am doing what I need to do to survive, but you... you don't know...

Because I was afraid—!

Just as he looks as if the whole world was about to collapse in itself between them, looks as if he's about to just turn on his heel, her words flood back as he stares at her fear stricken face. Sees how much she's actually shaking.

It wasn't because of him.

He's not the one she considers a villain—]

What did he do?

[Immediately he rushes in, his hands once more on her arms—but this time instead of anger mixed in that desperation, there's concern. Fear of his own as he lowers himself more to her level.]

Benna, tell me—what did he do?

[New fears suddenly fly to his mind, things he never considered or thought of because he just didn't have those expectations. As much as he hates the man and knows what he's capable of, there are lines he would never expect Barnabas to cross. Even now he can't really fathom it and perhaps it's just the fear of a prey caught by a predator, the fear of what if, the fear of death but—

He had to know. He had to be sure—]

Edited 2023-09-10 21:17 (UTC)

[Seeing her lean in, he follows suit with a furrowed brow...

Before his eyes widen and he looks at her in some surprise before he grins.]

Clever girl.

[A wink as he straightens.]

We should still narrow our search so we're not trying to make something appear where it shouldn't.

[To anyone else, it sounds like he's talking about the dolphin. But hopefully Jill will catch on that he doesn't want her wasting her time and energy in the wrong place.]

If I can secure a boat, think you can handle that?

Depends if it was living to begin with.

[A wary eye as he glances back again, that thump louder this time.]

How much farther 'til the drop off?

[Because she wanted him to count!!!! Even if it was his idea—

But he'll count steadily and in rhythm as he continues to push the wheel in his direction, each notch getting a little harder than the last with the wheel more resistant. About midway there's a small slip on his end. They could hear the subtle click of the wheel reaching the notch, but it was just off, so when he loosened his grip to let Tifa take her turn, it spins backwards. He managed to catch it, but they're set back by one.]

...Looks like we'll have to be careful as it gets harder to pull. Instead of alternating, we'll have turn at the same time to guarantee it locks in.

[War...manipulation...

He frowns at that, familiar with similar tactics used elsewhere. But he's not really here to pry into someone's world's history, nor is it one that he has much interest in. So he's about to let the man go on his business when they'll both hear a commotion on the other end of the hall...

Followed a click of his tongue.]

Corsairs. [They make it pretty obvious with how they dress and act.] I'll handle them.

[ The look that Eustace receives is one of confusion and irritation. Because - ]

You got a scoop?

Edited 2023-09-10 20:33 (UTC)

[Look he knows the directions okay and who knows what else these fish have to protect their eggs. Could be another electrical field or something!! Or poison!!

...

Anyway, just an equally confused look as he kicks the bucket from around his side to Cloud's. Since his hands are preoccupied by being in the water and they don't need to alert the fish.]

Are you more interested in fauna or flora? [Asked as he looked up, pen in hand along with notebook.

Don't mind the curious and brightly colored bird that looked up with him- one of the parrot species had grown curious as he had been drawing a different flock in his notebook and came to investigate.

He seemed at home with such antics.]

It is difficult not to get caught up with how well both are taken care of here, along with the large variety.

[ Cloud will just follow behind her with the faint beginnings of a smile. She's stubborn too and more than capable of handling herself. ]

Not quite like this, I don't think. But then again you never know.

[ They hadn't really been paying Tifa and Cloud any mind. Not until they actually get to the shoreline - the point where the water actually can touch them. The creatures seem entirely fearless as they stare the two people down. As if testing their resolve in those moments. ]

Got a point. No one thinks about how powerful a chocobo's stomp is.

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Miriam | Bloodstained: RotN | Paladin

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