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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

[ I believe in you, Alucard. It is indeed a boon to have such a good friend in the Paladins, and Xenk certainly feels a certain draw towards Alucard after their enlightening adventures together. Friendship! What a concept.

Xenk waits patiently outside the door, having no trouble with standing perfectly still for seven minutes. He's part zombie, he can just pause for a while and it's nothing. ]

Indeed! Let us away. The day has but started.

[ He smiles, nodding in approval at how quickly Alucard pulled himself together. The threat flies over his head. He just thinks it's so nice that Alucard is offering to do something in return for this kind gesture. ]

I shall look forward to it, my friend.

[ Clive and Torgal will exchange a quick glance before the man motions with a nod to her open hand.

The wolf will approach, sniffing hand at first. Torgal seems optimistic and within a few moments is headbutting into her hand, as if asking for pets. His tail is wagging!! Clearly a good sign!! ]

Still a puppy at first, it seems.

[Seeing Kotori reach for it, she holds it out for her to take instead, should she want to.]

You think there's someone back at camp who might be able to fix it? Get it working again...?

How exactly do you play with something so big?

[Tifa is used to the cats and dogs of the slums—even back in Nibelheim, she didn't do much with the few chocobos around town, so this is all very new to her.

But, as if sensing her question, one of them wanders up closer and, using its wide, long tail, it nudges them both, knocking Cloud into Tifa which in turn knocks her into the water with a splash.]

Really!? [And the sea horse stomps its feet and whinnies with excitement.] That's how you wanna do it, then?

Yeah... the ship can get pretty confusing the further down you go.

[And they are all pretty far below deck, all things considered.]

But finish up your tea and then I'll show you the way back up. [A pause, and her eyes go a bit wide when she realizes—] Ah, I'm Tifa, by the way...

[HE'S SORRY TIFA—or he will be later. Right now he's too peeved to care that he was quite rude and rough to the poor girl. But the moment he hears Valo, his ears perk up and his eyes shine as he turns to him.]

Valo...!

[...And his voice definitely took on a strange lilt and pitch as he crouches down with arms wide open.]

Come here, Valo!

[But.

Valo just whines and steps back instead, shocking Eustace terribly.]

...Valo?

[IS HE, THOUGH...

Through clenched teeth, Tifa looks up just in time to see Valo screeching to a halt before stepping back.]

What's wrong, Valo?

[The dog lifts its feet as he tries to unstick his paws from the ale all over the ground...

...

....

Before he turns around and trots back to wait at the viewing area with his tail between his legs.]

What happened to him?

[It sounds like his reply, even if not the best, was at least good enough to still this guard's hand. Lyney is going to hold onto that, and offers a sheepish smile.]

Ah, well, you are correct about that. And surely, had the situation not been as it was, I had every intention of going through the proper channels to get here. But seeing as how we are on opposite sides, I figured that my request wouldn't be met in good faith.

[Which is... half-true. He did truly believe that because he was a Corsair, he wouldn't be let into the castle while the Paladins were here. But as for every intention of going through the proper channels? Well... that detail's a bit foggy. Odds are he probably would have still snuck into the more hidden areas even if he was allowed in.]

That's why I used a... less direct method of entering here. But though my methods were not strictly moral, I am being honest when I say I am more curious about what secrets this castle holds, rather than its treasures.

[damn lucky. rabbits feet may be even luckier when you have four of them or something. but it's honestly odd. with furrowed brow, eizen crosses his arms while glancing around the room. nothing else is stirring in here. there's no footsteps, no noises, nothing attacking them, not so much as an out of place floorboard creaking. it's unnerving.

his eyes shift back over to the crate. that gaping hole PROVES something escaped. the wood pieces are scattered to the outside of the crate so it had to have come out of there...

while eizen ponders this oddity, the little, innocent bunny stares at that hand with its big bunny eyes, its cute little nose wiggling. it starts hopping over toward cid.

then two things happen simultaneously: eizen putting two and two together, and the rabbit seemingly readying itself for an extra-strength hop. as eizen turns toward cid, the bunny propels itself through the air via godlike-hop with bared fangs. it's out for blood!!]

Shi-- Look out!

[hopefully cid can dodge that!]

Va...lo....

[Nope, Eustace is too stricken by his dog not greeting him that his drunk brain can't comprehend and is now broken. So broken he actually drops to his knees in despair.

Slowly proceeding to rare drunk Eustace phase: uncontrollable grief.]

Edited 2023-09-22 21:23 (UTC)

You can only use fish words? [ That... sounds like the dumbest curse ever.

She doesn't bother having him test the newest taste, confident that she didn't add too much or too little of the spice. Instead, allowing it keep warm while she turns to the oven for the bread she'd made earlier. ]

[ In time, Joshua will remind her of her brother. Laphi was always thinking, needing someone to make sure he didn't overdo things. Or ending up in danger. Phi was only like that at first, as he became more of a person.

She hefts a barrel over her shoulder easily, moving to bring it to its destination. ]

Very well. I am. I don't plan to be on that ship for very long, I'd much rather have my own ship.

Ah--that would be a good idea, yes. Less risk to the boat, too.

[Was Miriam considering swimming down there herself to bait the creature out? It's more likely than you think!]

Do you suppose it's attracted to light, like a fish would be?

Our world is infested with daemons, many of them are classified as crustacean. Sometimes they were aquatic, other times they simply had shells.

[ Velvet has gotten her own small tattoo. It only works for her artes, as being a daemon has nothing to do with magic. That's just her genetic makeup now. ]

Fine, let's go get us some shrimp for dinner.

[ It's always too easy, she can't even blame this on Eizen's Reaper curse.

Velvet rolls her left shoulder. ]

Looks like you'll be sick of them shortly after trying them for the first time.

[ They could probably sell some of these and earn money, too. Whether Velvet shares that with the rest of the Corsairs is up for debate. ]

You sure you won't need help?

[ She smirks at Benedikta as she says it. A dark smokes begins to rise from her body, especially that clawed arm. ]

I've fought much worse than whatever this thing is.

[ Velvet hangs on to the hatching egg and the back of the cart so that she doesn't get thrown off in their speedy and possibly reckless ride. ]

Of course, it would be dragon...

[ Is what Cid gets to hear. He can't see it, but a little wing is poking through the shell and out of the box. ]

[ He could find out her intentions, but chances are good that he wouldn't like them. Velvet hardly ever does anything she doesn't want to, so this is just a selfish reason, and she knows it. Xenk's weapon reminds her so much of the Exorcists when they armatized with malakhim.

A dangerous weapon capable of hurting her, but she's fighting the man holding the sword - not the sword itself. The holy sword makes contact, blood pooling to the slash across her right arm. Yet there's another person here who continues to fight regardless of injury.

Her right leg comes up, a small hidden blade appearing at the tip of her boot as she kicks at him several times. A small whirlwind appears and moves in his direction. ]

(introspection recap)

[To say the past few days for him have been "rough" would be an understatement. Outwardly he continued on, business as usual. Keep himself busy doing the odd jobs, learning the lay of the lands (or leviathans in this case), how the people worked, the shellphone. There was plenty to keep him preoccupied—and he needed it.

Cid was a man who usually kept himself composed and handled his problems on his own, doesn't let many things get to him because there were always more important matters to care about. But he was still human and had his weaknesses.

Benedikta was one of them.

That night when things broke down with Benedikta was one of the worst nights of his life—possibly even worse than their first "break up" and his departure from Waleod. He had felt hurt, grief, betrayal, regret—and he had drunk himself into a stupor until Otto dragged him out. It was all the same here, only this time it was Clive. And this time, it somehow hurt a lot more, cut into him deeper. This time, he really felt there was no hope left.

Of course, over the years after their split, he had filled that hole and moved on because there would be no good if he didn't, and at the time that sense of betrayal made it much easier to do so. Nor did he ever get too bent out of shape whenever they had met and fought, sparring with both their weapons and their words, their venom poisoning the well they once shared and still drew from. Both had their doubts, their suspicions, preconceptions of what the other thought and felt. For Cid, he fully believed she no longer loved him like she used to, that she had already discarded him and only saw him as a means to an end. She had made her choices, said her words so clearly and so often, what else was he supposed to think or believe?

Yet no matter how much dirt he put in, those roots remained, dug so deep into his heart there was no way to pull them out. Thus not once did he ever truly stop caring for her. Waned and faded, sure, but not gone. Many would think him a fool and idiot for it—he did, too—yet that's how it was. That little bit of hope and desire to get her out and bring her back. To save her from that fate.

But he never could, and that would haunt him after her death. Especially after he found that pendant... That pendant that made him realize that he had been wrong, that she, too, had still held a candle for him—whatever that candle might have meant. It would make him turn her last words to him over in his head over and over, make him wonder if she had really meant what she said and he had been too blinded by all their other arguments and beliefs to not see it any different. Make him question again and again why did she not listen to him. Why...she chose the path she did.

All this time, he thought it was for her selfish reasons. But that night in the cabin, he thought he got a glimpse of the truth.

You do not know what it's like, waking up only to find out that you're dead! You, of all people... you should know what Barnabas can do. What he would do...

That fear hidden in the way she held herself, behind those barbed words—in her eyes.

You have other choices—and this is a completely different world, a different place. He doesn't hold any of that power over you anymore.

Is that what you think? I made my own choice, Cidolfus. A long time ago. And so did you. If I am to survive, I—

It doesn't have to be this way. Benedikta, this can't be what you really want, can it? To live in fear like this? Just look at yourself!

You know nothing, Cidolfus. 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—!

It was the first, real tangible thing he could finally grasp in understanding her. The first real thing he could hold to try and pull her back in. But then he was hit with an even bigger bolt that sent him reeling—and still leaves him stunned even now.

If you hate me so much, then what are you doing!?

You didn't want me! You didn't fight—!

Fight. She had wanted him to fight for her? How incensed he had been by that idea, that feeling of not only her thinking that he had just given up, but also that sense of being toyed with, like he was being put to some bloody test that he had no idea about. But what pissed him off more was that he willingly fell for it. That he keeps falling for it.

And now it's too late, Cidolfus. It matters not where we are. It changes nothing.

...Nothing, you say? Then why hold onto this?

His pendant. The things they bought for each other. The pictures and messages all read the moment he sent them. She keeps telling him they're just "reminders" to never trust anyone again, but he knew that was complete bullshit. And that's why he's still in this dilemma, because despite how terrible things ended that night on the ship, he still couldn't give up. He had every reason in the world now to end things for good, but whether it's because of his stubbornness or those deep roots or...how her eyes reflected that fear, how she clearly clung to him and said things that seemed to hide her true feelings—he couldn't. He still couldn't let the damn woman go.

Do you still want me or not?

Yet now, he wonders if he needs to, not just for his own sake, but for hers as well. In these past few nights as he stares at his phone, stares at the charm that still dangles from it, and sometimes opens her message box to stare at the pictures and then her pictures—he wonders if it's because of his continued persistence that she can no longer make the right decision for herself. He always saw himself as a path to her freedom, but...what if he was just another cage, keeping her from her truly flying free?

What if he truly is more of a poison than a salve for her?

And so he's caught in this question of whether to leave her for good...or try one more time. Why he keeps putting himself through this he doesn't know. Everyone else would say otherwise—has. Even himself. But despite her rejection and her inability to answer the one question he wanted answered, every time he remembers that fear, every time he looks back on everything in a different light... He can't give up. Not...completely. Not yet.

Not until he can get a real, final answer.

However, he's not so keen to jump back into that hellfire so quickly, either, so he had continued to keep his distance, try and sort out his thoughts and emotions, keeping in mind of all the things said between him, Clive, and Jill that night. Sort out whether he should really try again or just leave Benedikta to her choices, her fate. To decide...whether he should let her drown or once again try and grab her. To make up for where he had failed. But would it be for her sake? His own? Both? There truly was no easy answer, not with how messy and entangled they've become.]

[So, in one of his many efforts to distract himself and explore more of the world, he walks towards the meeting place, shellphone in hand as he looks at the information again and swipes through posts and articles posted on the network—although the charm that usually hangs there is notably missing. He had taken many pictures by now, and while he's done this at least once already with Jill, he actually enjoyed practicing his beginner photography skills trying to catch that dolphin before. And since he's done it before, this next go around should be easier.

Especially since he doesn't have to, ahem, "borrow" a boat.

Thus, with his eyes on the screen he doesn't notice until he's only a few feet away that he feels that familiar prick in the back of his neck that makes him look up sharply, the swear leaving his lips before he can stop it.]

...Bollocks.

[WELL. This is. Not. What he wanted. At all. Maybe he can just turn around and leave—]

Edited 2023-09-22 21:04 (UTC)

Eustace!?

[Tifa tries to scramble to him when he falls to his knees, hoping to catch him before he does, but she doesn't make it in time when her knee slips out from underneath her as she's crawling, and she faceplants on the ground instead.

And she's just going to lie there for a moment, utterly defeated, before she tries again.

She's going to make it to him one way of another, and she'll appear at his side eventually, froth smeared across her furrowed brow.]

... Are you okay?

Valo... Valo is......

[He just continues to mutter brokenly, hands now on the ground as he slumps over.]

I... Valo....

[WHY IS HIS VISION BECOMING BLURRY—]

[It's at the same time he feels it that Benedikta does, too... That prickle in the back of her mind that has her looking up to meet the gaze of whichever Dominant has decided to grace her with their presence this time, because of course it had to be—

Her heart leaps and the pit of her stomach sinks, and Benedikta suddenly feels as if she's trapped between a sky that is about to crash down all around her, and the ground that threatens to swallow her whole when she meets those bright green eyes of his with her own.]

You've got to be fucking kidding me.

[Of all the people.

Of all the Dominants for this place to pick from, it had to be Cidolfus Fucking Telamon. Again. First, he found her, and then he waltzed into her cabin without a care and sent her world spinning off its axis. And now, it makes that—his—pendant that she wears (safely tucked under her shirt and out of sight, thank fuck) weigh so much heavier around her neck with all the things that they had left between them since those few nights ago.

Hell, she would have preferred the Ice Queen or the Crowned Prince at this point, but the universe sure likes to fuck with her, doesn't it?

Fuck. Fuck. Fuck.

After staring him down for a few moments with a razor-sharp gaze, Benedikta pushes herself away from the rock. She will not give him the satisfaction of knowing that he has just made her heart skip several beats, or that his presence has affected her in any way.

Which is why, after her initial surprise, she fixes her expression with a look of weariness and boredom, and with a roll of her eyes, she walks to where the otter man is waiting, looking between the two of them with some confusion when he senses that tension.]

Well? Don't keep me waiting any longer, Cidolfus.

[ Well, she's already here so... ]

Do you not know how to swim, or were you caught off-guard and too surprised?

[ Nimona wiggles her fins a little. ]

You're going to have to give better directions than that. I can't exactly see you while you're standing on my back.

[ Her eyes can only see so much. Technically, Nimona can echo locate but that's not as fun. ]

[ Nimona keeps herself steady in the water so Rikku can grab on. Once the other is holding on, the dolphin puts on some speed.

It's not top dolphin speed, but not too slow either. ]

They aren't too far out. We'll be there in no time.

[ She considers that answer. ]

Do you think you'd make a better Corsair?

[ So clearly the woman isn't here to steal things... probably. ]

[ Admit it, almost everyone wants to try that at least once. It's a classic move!

Nimona jumps up onto the rigging at the railing, hanging with one hand. More like dangling from it ]

I know, right? I would have made the best Corsair to ever exist on these seas. Somehow I got stuck on those "goody-two shoes" crew!

[ Apparently, Nimona is lamenting her fate too deeply because that balloon smacks her right in the chest. ]

Oh no! I've been struck by a dirty pirate! [ She clutches the wet paint spot with both hands, letting herself drop to the deck like a rock. Making appropriate dying noises. ]

Tell my crew... [ Coughgasphack! ] I ate all of the dessert.

[ She rolls to her side, dragging herself across the deck with her hands. ] Maybe... I can make it back to them. With my last breath, I will die in... Paladin territory.

[ A hand grabs the wheel, and she makes if going to stand. ]

Everything... going dark... [ A hand rises into the air as if seeing something invisible in front of her. ] No, wait... a light. In the distance.

[ Nimona becomes entirely slack on the deck, her eyes still wide open. ]

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ELTRUT: FAREWELL SENDOFF

ELAH: PALADIN BASE

NOGARD: CORSAIR BASE

MANTA BOARD

is this not the joy of friendship

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cw: blood/wound

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