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

[Here he goes again, thinking that he knows the truth of it all. Thinking that he has all the answers to everything, and that his answers are the only right ones, and it makes her so angry that those words of his fall on deaf ears. All of them, except for the last.]

Because—!

[She practically shrieks it back, because while she knows why, she doesn't know how to say it. She doesn't want to say it. Not to him, not to Barnabas, not to anyone... and especially not to herself.]

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...

[Her voice trails off and she snaps her eyes away from his, turning sharp on her heel as that fear of hers crawls back in. The same one that she's felt every time she looked into the deep blue eyes of her King, so hollow and yet, still an ocean that he drowns her in.]

[You do not know what it's like, waking up only to find out that you're dead!

Oh how he almost shouted that he does know. That he's dead, too. But if he did then this entire conversation would spiral even further. Not that it will really take much, it's already gone so far off course he's not even sure there was ever one to begin with.

So he swallows it.

Because there's something else that he notices.

Notices her posture, her words.

That fear.

It's come in different ways and in different forms, but he knows when she's feeling afraid, and this is it. And it's enough for him to rein in that anger, to keep his voice from rising.]

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.

[He doesn't hold any of that power over you anymore.

Those words rattle her. Visibly so, with how her shoulder blades tense, how her nails dig further into her palms.]

Is that what you think?

[That this is about what power he holds over her?

Though, deny it as she might try, she knows that there is still that chain bound tight around her wrist that she bears willingly, her loyalty being the one thing that she can cling to when everything else feels strange and terrifying.

When Barnabas terrifies her.

She had felt it today, the day before, and the day before that. Every time his gaze lingered on her, with every carefully plucked word that fell past his lips... She waited and waited for the moment when he would tell her that he knew what she was hiding from him with bated breath until she felt her lungs might collapse... but that moment never came.

That is the power he holds over her.

And yet, she tightens that cuff ever further, knowing what she knows. Knowing what he plans to do with this "completely different world".]

I made my own choice, Cidolfus. A long time ago. And so did you.

[But there is still hurt laced into her words, a pain that only he might know. A fear that he only he might have seen in the seconds before she turned from him.]

If I am to survive, I—

[The words spill out of her faster than she can stop them, and she almost kicks the empty shelf standing against the wall with her boot. Fuck, why does he keep doing this to her!?]

Edited 2023-09-09 07:26 (UTC)

[I made my own choice, Cidolfus. A long time ago.

And so did you.

The words sting him more than he expected, because he knows what choice she made. A choice that he kept trying to make her change and yet for some ungodly reason she remains stuck to it.

As well as the choice he made and the choice he also stuck to.

Then again, he's just as stubborn so this really isn't so surprising when it's a clash of their wills, neither willing to bend even when they should.

Yet again he has to bite down the words he's always wanted to say, the hurt that he's also had to carry and bury.]

It doesn't have to be this way.

[He takes a step towards her, his voice softening.]

Benedikta, this can't be what you really want, can it? [Unbidden, his voice from when he asked that same question as she lay lifeless on that charred ground echo through his mind and he has to hastily push it away.] To live in fear like this? Just look at yourself!

Edited 2023-09-09 07:27 (UTC)

[Eustace just watches with an impressed but discerning eye. It's just one obstacle, but the way she moves and her form is enough to tell him more about her skills, skills he had only got a glimpse from before.

And once she's over safely, Valo barks at him, also encouraging him.]

Take it slow, hm?

[He just looks at the logs before he crouches...

...

And dashes over them, one foot landing on one log before immediately propelling himself forward to the next. He doesn't stay on the log long enough to even feel the turn, and in just a few steps he's next to her.]

Didn't need to.

[Might be smirking a little as he turns to greet Valo who is running up the ramp people who fail or need to retry take so he can crouch down and give him a fond ear ruffle.]

[ unique? that piqued ky's interest. he steps closer to see what secrets may lie, using his magic to form a source of light out of lightning. a very convenient skill to have when archiving like this. as he's taking notes (along with questions for the future), he speaks. ]

"Unique" is the right word here. [ he smiles. ] How did you manage to find this piece? Wolf motifs like this are rare in my time, mostly due to bad associations- it's a breath of fresh air to see them in a positive light. I would've never thought I would find a piece like this.

[ ... it was only then he realizes he was speaking aloud. whoops. at least he has the decency to act embarrassed. ]

[[Continued from here.]]

[There's a quick second of concern, but it's quickly overtaken by common sense and the instinct to RUN GIRL RUN!]

Right, thank you!

[AND RUN SHE GOES, carrying her curry plate like her life depends on it! Once she's caught her breath, though, after a few seconds she does peek through the doorway to see if the man is behind her or not.]

[[Continued from here.]]

[Another quick nod, and she means it. The flavors aside from the scorching burn are really warm and tangy and delicious, and the rice is cooked perfectly. But of course, explaining all that would make her mouth burn even worse. More cream! And more lemon squeezed over the rice, swallowing this next bite before speaking again.]

'R'you doing?

If you insist. [ He would actually make a fine partner. He's quick and fit and an obstacle course probably won't be too much of a challenge.

Teamwork however...

That is the question, isn't it? ]

Far be it for me to turn down a request. [ He'll frame it as her request, in that case. Almost like she's asking a favour. ]

i. eltrut

[ a. the sailor warrior competition was much, even for holy order standards.

it brings back somewhat horrid memories of training, and even when kliff wasn't being a complete hard-ass, it was still rather ridiculous. but to participate, he has to get a corsair on his side. how in god's name is he going to get a corsair on his side? he's not--

ky shakes his head. bad thinking, bad. he decides to approach the nearest person, smiling. what better way to do something than to just ask? ]

Excuse me, I was looking for a Corsair to participate. Do you know of one- or at least, are you one?

[b. back on the eltrut ships ky manages to find the a nice place on the main deck to see what kinds of magic he could use thanks to the tattoos. there was definitely less of a learning curve in terms of picking it up (the twelve divine steps and their chords often are an extreme challenge to most magic users), but it was more of the creativity side of the matters that interested him. he's going to put trust in the knowledge that this ship can handle it.

so there ky was, in the middle of the training space and seeing what he could do- since his chosen tattoo had ice imbued into it, the main goal was applying it to his fighting style. it was an element outside of his knowledge five element configuration, so might well play with it? it would also help in a pinch. best to be prepared.

he decides to use his stun edge move as the first move, but instead of lightning- use ice. it was trickier than imagined, but he was slowly getting the hang of it. he had fired off one more- only to realize he was aiming at a door that was opening up at that very moment. ]

Oh shoot- watch out! [ shouted loud enough to make sure the person had fair warning. ]

ii. elah - paladins

[ a. at the nodding kettle, ky muses over which item to get, and it was getting difficult to choose. but unlike his tattoo choice (which was a flag with black and blue wings on the flag itself on the arm) this was at least narrowed down some.

but let's face it, this man has been standing by the two items for at least an hour. someone better make him move or he's going to stay there forever.

b. when contracted to stand guard at the archives, ky does his work with dilligence. he doesn't move for anything asides from another human being. unless addressed by his partner guard, he doesn't care for much else. if even spoken to, ky wll respond immediately with the same line over and over again: ]

You know we're to focus on protection, yes?

[c. the castle ruins' job was more up his alley. so much of human culture, especially the arts, were lost during the crusades. he has no idea what humanity has created during the time before, especially since he was born so far into the future (he is definitely still considering this world as "the past", but more in a coping way). so there he was, taking so many notes in now several notebooks to try and process it all.

the retrival process was the easiest process of them all, but it's defense of the acutal artifacts that has ky on edge. any paladin will be met with a smile, but any and all corsair will be met with the sound of crackling thunder, and thunderseal pointed at their faces. he is not playing around whatsoever. ]

I take it you're not here to archive the wares of the castle, are you? State your intentions, now. [ the malice in his voice hinted at his intentions: fuck around? you'll find out. ]

iii. quests

[ a. dockside repairs: while this may be ky's first time on a seaside dock, he's a very eager man willing to learn in order to assist in the daily lives of workers. he uses his enhanced strength to lug around heavy items, and whenever plans need a leader, ky is already offering his assitance with his leadership skills.

it's here that he realizes that wow, it's wonderful being among the common people, without the needs of formailities and titles. it's great. anyone who can see him knows he's in a good mood. ask him why, and he'll respond with a smile and a nod. ]

It feels nice to be on the ground once more, is all.

[ b. mantis shrimp: because money is exactly what he needs right about now, he decides to chase this mantis shrimp. while it's definitely in his wheelhouse given his lightning magic and sword, he still needs to find the thing. he keeps his eye out, attention soley on his job. open him up, somehow?

c. tuna titans: fishing is a skill that ky wasn't given through his time in the holy order, nor in his time running a country, so there was a learning curve here. he definitely struggles even getting the line out in the first place, plus losing his catch every so often, but ky is trying, ok. give him some credit. ]

iv.wildcard

[ none of these work? hmu at discord (marinecamelias) or plurk (

divinereaper) to plot!! ]

You know nothing, Cidolfus.

[Words that she has said time and time again when he presumes to know what it is she's doing. What she's thinking. How she's feeling. What she wants... That much hasn't changed in all the years they've spent apart.

If anything, it only proves that he knows less and less of her as time goes on, as if the memories of them have started to turn to dust, weathered away by the storms of their encounters and hurtful words, and the time that carries on with or without them.

She whirls around only to end up surprised that he's moved closer, and she takes a firm step back, not yet realizing that she's backed herself up into a corner.]

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

[At least, that is what she will continue to tell herself as her voice grows quiet a moment.]

No. Instead you stand there and shame me for it. For my loyalty to my vows, something you would not understand after you betrayed us. As you have always done.

[His face contorts slightly at her mention of that godforsaken loyalty and vows, the same thing she parrots over and over again—]

Then why are you shaking then? Why are you the one who looks like she's about to face death all over again? If it's not fear, then what?

For loyalty? [He practically spits out the word.] I gave that man over twenty years of my trust and service only to find out I was being used like one of his pawns. [His gaze hardens as he looks at her, the bitterness and something else swimming in his eyes.] And if you want to talk about betrayals on "loyalties" and "vows" then you're no better.

Edited 2023-09-09 16:53 (UTC)

[[Continued from here.]]

That's true, I guess.

[But then she grows quiet for a moment before finding the words...]

Still... it seems like everyone's a lot more prepared for something like this than I am.

[March looks prim and proper-ish! More importantly, she's staring up at the course with a similarly excited expression as Rikku approaches.]

I am! I guess that means you're a Corsair.

[Great, she doesn't have to go looking for a partner!]

Let's do it. We're going to conquer this course and show it who's boss!

[March is taking her defense of the Paladin flags very seriously. Sure, it's just a game, but the whole point of a game is to win it. Right?

(Either way, it's a fun way to pass the time. She's all for that.)

When a dog snags a blue flag nearby, she does a double take.]

Hey! Give that back!

[She fully expects the dog to understand her. Torgal is a smart good boy who seems like he understands what he's told, and Nanaki can actually talk. No reason not to assume this dog is one or the other.

She lobs a water balloon after him, although she misses. Aiming is a lot harder when she doesn't have a bow and arrows.]

[She knows that she's trembling like a leaf—whether out of fear or rage, she can no longer tell the difference between the two, this onslaught of emotions stirring and brewing into a violent tempest—and she balls her fists ever tighter to stem it. It's a poor attempt, because it only travels elsewhere, to the quiver of her lips and the slight buckling of her knees.

Because those words sting.

They sting as much as the night he had turned his back on her and walked away. As much as the nights that followed his departure.]

And what is that supposed to mean? I have remained loyal. Even here, I take my vows seriously.

[Whether it is because she wants to or has to, naught matters in the end. All that matters is that she is at her King's side, and more importantly, the side that will ensure she makes it through this in one piece.]

[Noooooo please let her sleep more, this is inhumane.]

Hold on...!

[Xenk will hear some shuffling around, including a crash as she knocks something off of her nightstand in the process of scrambling out of bed. When she opens the door, she looks half asleep still.]

Can't this wait? It's so early.

[Tifa watches, openly impressed at his speed—at how easily he leaps from one to the next without his feet even touching the water. She supposes that everyone does things differently, but as he lands next to her, with her eyes wide in surprise, she wonders if she could have done it that way, too. Well, no sense in sitting on it for too long, she's just glad they both made it through.

And catching that smirk of his, she wears a subtle one of her own.]

Show-off.

[It's said with amusement, beneath a little snort of laughter while she gives him a minute to greet Valo before she's whirling around to what awaits them at the end of the platform.]

A ship wheel?

So then where was that loyalty to me?

[There's tension in his posture, his voice as cold as his eyes—even if there's a roiling heat in his chest, rocking like a storm at sea. Words and thoughts he kept buried now clawing their way out, burned hotter by the doubts he didn't want to have.

Wanted her to prove him wrong.]

Or was I just another ticket to survival to you?

[What they had back in Waleod...was complicated to be sure. Questionable, perhaps. Yet at no point did he take her lightly. At no point was he insincere, regardless of his own initial hesitations.

At no point did he ever really regret that time they spent together, rightly or wrongly.

For it had all been genuine in the end—which made her own betrayal hurt more than he would be ever willing to admit.]

My goodness! Is this how you treat everyone you meet? Charming, aren't you?

[ Astarion has his hands raised in surrender--he'd prefer not to be impaled, all things considered. ]

Let's start over! I'm Astarion. And you are...?

[He would fucking dare...

Specks of green magic swirl around her fingertips as she finally flexes them, a wind that should not be there sweeping through the room. A threat that she means to make good on should he accuse her again.]

Is that what you truly think?

[For years... for years and years she looked up to him. Admired him. And then, she came to love him in a way that was deeper than any anger, any fear, any hatred that she had ever felt. It was all-consuming—day and night, awake or asleep, all she thought of was him.]

You were the one who left, even after I begged you—

[She stops the words right in their tracks lest she give any more life to his accusations or those feelings that she's stomped on until they were nothing more than dried up dirt under her boot.]

You walked away from me. You left me. [She huffs a bitter laugh as the winds now pick up, and there it is—that sharp dagger piercing through her heart as the memory of that night resurfaces, and fresh tears burn hot along her eyes.] You were never a ticket to survival. How could you be!? You are less than that.

[With a deep, trembling breath, she meets his gaze.]

You're nothing...!

[He feels that wind, feels the cold gales biting into him as if to push him back, yet he remains unmoved. It's reminiscent of that night in the chapel—their last fight before her death.

Goodbye, Cidolfus.]

You were the one who refused me and made your choice.

[It was a two way street. She rejected him by choosing not to follow. He rejected her by choosing not to stay.

And that should have been the end of it, but even now, years later, they continue this clash over and over and—]

So if I am nothing, then why did you hold onto it?

[But now there is a change.

Now there is a wrinkle in his initial thoughts, his perception.

And he wants to know the truth. No matter where it might lead.]

[There's a shift, one that is felt through the whole room as the wind cuts through it—an invisible wall forming as if to separate them. Not to move him but to keep him from her.

But it isn't just that. It's in her demeanour, too. Everything about her. Her expression, her stance, all of it veering into something more guarded rather than offensive. Another stillness falls between them, her silence betraying all she's said up until now as she hardens herself against that stare of his.]

Hold onto what?

[But it takes every scrap of self-control she has left not to reach into her pocket to make sure that it's still there, because she knows. She can pretend all she wants, but she knows exactly what he means. There is only one thing left of him that she still has. One thing of him that she refuses to let go of, and it isn't just the small trinket that weighs heavy in her pocket.]

Edited 2023-09-09 19:35 (UTC)

[And without missing a beat—]

The pendant.

[And without missing another beat, the winds immediately die out as if they were never there.

There it is—she can feel it weighing her down. How something so small could press so deep into her that she feels her knees buckle. She doesn't stagger, but she does falter, her gaze immediately dropping elsewhere—anywhere but on him.]

How do you know about that?

[Only she knew. Not even Barnabas or Gerulf knew that she still held onto it. Of all the secrets she had, that was her best kept. Or perhaps they did know and never said a word.

Either way, Cidolfus shouldn't know.]

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<< september: maiden voyage >>

ELTRUT: FAREWELL SENDOFF

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NOGARD: CORSAIR BASE

MANTA BOARD

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ii.c.

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