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.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[ Xenk is doing his rounds. What do his rounds entail? Only he knows. Well, most likely he's actually wandering the ship because he can't sleep, but he would call them rounds.

And so Xenk walks past the open door and spots Turo inside. He isn't one to eavesdrop, in fact he was probably going to close the door for him, but he's not immune to curiosity. And the giant creature was definitely not with Turo on deck earlier. ]

Is this creature one of the pokémon you spoke of?

Ah- yes, yes it is.

[Those 'wings' seemed to moved one after the other, the 'eyes' of it's face moving towards the door as the robotic creature made an odd sounds. Turo's hand remained on it, as if to half keep it in place.]

This is Iron Moth- something known as a Paradox Pokémon, given it's design and possibility of being a pokémon from my world's future.

[Quite the handful as well—]

Four of them arrived here with me.

[ Xenk examines the creature to the best of his ability. He's definitely never seen anything like this before. ]

It is an honor to meet you, Iron Moth.

[ He says this and bows his head to the... moth. A Paradox Pokemon? Well, if it's made of iron and it flies, that sounds like a Paradox to him. Xenk turns his attention from the moth, back to Turo. ]

Are all of them creatures from the future? Did they arrive with you here?

[There was another 'fluttering' of those wings as the pokémon hovered, and the sound could be taken as a greeting in turn. Honestly, he was grateful the pokémon was calm.

Always was that small chance with the Paradox Pokémon.]

The Paradox Pokemon are all from the future, yes. The four I have here were knocked out when I finally came across them with the rest of my belongings, but a good rest has gotten them back to normal.

[Turo gently pat just under Iron Moth's head.]

I am currently checking them over, one at a time, to make sure they are alright. The other three are currently in their pokéballs- devices that pokémon can rest within, and makes it easier to keep them close when traveling.

How curious, that they should be considered your belongings.

[ I mean, I guess it's not too strange. But if Xenk had shown up with his horse, would the horse have been in a box? That's painting a very funny picture. Though Turo's explanation on their storage at least sheds some light there. ]

Ah, this makes their travel here much more understandable. I feared they'd been trapped inside of a chest of some kind, until you freed them.

[ He may not be an Oath of the Ancients paladin, but he still would feel pretty bad for a bunch of animals being thrown about in a box! ]

Indeed. Once a pokémon accepts a person they become partners, rather than belonging in such a way to simply be thought of as a thing.

[His hand finally moved from Iron Moth as the pokémon simply turned where it hovered as if to look Xenk over better.

Turo fetch the pokeball that had contained Iron Moth and held it up in his palm.]

An amusing, but likely distressing mental image indeed. This is much easier, given pokémon shrink down to fit within these comfortably. Much study went into pokéballs to ensure that once technology evolved to a point it could be assured.

Partners, is it? Then they are noble creatures.

[ Like horses, indeed! Xenk allows the Iron Moth to observe him, noting the creature's intelligence. He watches Turo with interest, keeping track of his explanation.

Yeah, the big giant moth fits into the ball. How exactly? Xenk places a hand on Turo's arm, mostly to ensure he's "for real" here. ]

My friend, you must forgive me for speaking so plainly, but how in the nine hells does your Iron Moth fit into so small a case?

Quite so. Powerful and mysterious creatures who test trainers to ensure they are worthy of becoming partners. Unfortunately it does at time lead to wild pokémon attacking any who may be in the wrong place at the wrong time; a reason young children without a partner are advised to stay out of certain areas.

[Those digital 'eyes' blinked on Iron Moth, and Turo's head tilted for a moment, fingers curled just enough to keep the pokéball held easily in hand.

Ah. Right.]

It shrinks, like a normal pokémon does, once the pokéball is activated to pull it back inside. Given that I have finished Iron Moth's check-up, I can demonstrate that if you would wish to see.

Your creatures sound quite mystical. You say they attack children? In their attempts to befriend them?

[ Xenk takes a step back, giving Turo and his Iron Moth some room. He's seen a Diminution spell, but nothing quite so small as this. He truly has no idea what to expect. ]

Please, do so. I am intrigued to see it for myself.

Pokémon have a tendency to test trainers while they travel through various areas outside of towns and cities, to see if they are the right person to join on their own journey to grow stronger. Some are far more enthusiastic than others, and some are merely protecting their territory.

The bond between trainer and pokémon is important for both, to grow stronger together.

[The pokéball in Turo's hand enlarged just a tad more as he tipped his head in a nod, before looking back to Iron Moth.]

You are doing well, it is time for you to return and rest.

[There was that glow as the pokeball was activated, and for a moment Iron Moth was surrounded in a glow as well before shrinking down within seconds and vanishing into that light, which flowed and vanished into the ball that shrank back down to a smaller size in Turo's palm.

This he held up once sealed.]

It helps make it much easier to have them on hand.

I see. Your world sounds a great deal more dangerous than I had assumed.

[ Xenk nods as he listens to the explanation. If magical godlike creatures roamed his world and challenged humans, or lived like animals, would it really be so different? Well, their gods already do very strange things. Perhaps a world like Turo's is more similar than he's thought.

He thinks that, and observes the moment Iron Moth is drawn back into its tiny little ball. And blinks.

Yeah, ok, that's magic. Definitely magic. ]

Is it common, to carry these pokémon with you? Containing them does not harm them?

Peaceful as the world is otherwise, it is a risk we are happy to live with and try to ensure younger generations are well prepared. Why people dedicate their lives to studying and furthering our understanding of pokémon and the world around us.

[A wonderous, even if at times dangerous, world that he had so badly wanted to see when he had the chance to actually look and watch as others made their way from challenge to challenge. Why he was willing to risk so much to save it- even in the end when he had made the choice that would put a stop to—

Turo nodded, pokéball rested carefully there in his hand.]

It is very common, and containing them does not harm them. They can actually—

[As he had been putting Iron Moth's ball down on an end table with the other four, one of the masterball pokéballs activated itself, and soon enough a pokemon just a few inches over being 4-foot tall stood before him, those sharp pink digital eyes cutting between them.

Turo held a hand up, and the pokémon looked towards him. At least those pink blades remained there on its arms.]

Easy, Iron Valiant. I am sorry for being slow to get to you, but that does not mean things are not okay; I do appreciate you wanting to check.

[Looking back towards Xenk then.] —as I was saying, it is not odd for a pokémon to release itself. Not a common behavior, but it depends on the Pokémon's temperament and what reason they feel to do so.

[ Xenk takes a short step back as the creature frees itself from it container. The blades on this one seem quite sharp, though Turo does not seem distressed so Xenk will stand back. ]

I see.

[ He observes the rest of the pokeballs. What strange devices these are. ]

Their forms are quite varied. I thought them to be similar to animals, but this one is more akin to an elemental from my world.

Edited (spacing!) 2023-09-10 03:01 (UTC)

[Turo rested a hand on Iron Valiant's shoulder, and there seemed to be a sort of change to the Pokémon's posture; more at ease. Those bright pink digital eyes moving from Turo to rest on Xenk.

Clearly the pokémon was looking the man over.]

They come in many different shapes and sizes, that is true. Some vaguely resemble a person in their shape, while others are far more animal like. It is unfortunate that I do not have access to a pokédex so I could show you others.

[Those that weren't of the paradox, but more... normal.]

The best I could do is create a sketch.

[ Xenk stares back at the pokemon with the same honest, stern gaze he gives everyone. He never shrinks away from anything, unknown or not. Better to show your true self to any creature than hide behind false modesty or preamble. ]

I would be interested in seeing your sketch, nonetheless.

[ I mean, if he's offering? It sounds kinda cool. ]

Would you like to see on of those native to my particular region? A few come to mind of others, depending the type you may be interested in.

[While Turo spoke, Iron Valiant watched- and for a moment those digital bright pink eyes seemed to narrow, before returning to normal with a rather firm nod. Arms relaxed by its sides further.

Whatever the Paradox Pokémon had been looking for was found, so it would seem.]

Of course. Whichever you feel is best.

[ Xenk gives the pokémon a short nod, then turns his attention back to Turo. ]

Your legendary pokémon sounded quite mystical. Perhaps one of those? If you can recall their appearance.

[He picked up one of his more empty notebooks -he had gotten a few before their departure- along with a pen. Turo opened up to the first page and begain the sketch as he spoke-]

There are four known as the Treasures of Ruin. Long ago, there existed a set of four ancient treasures: a vessel, a sword, a set of tablets, and a set of beads. Throughout many centuries, and all the corrupted hands they were laid upon, the four treasures would be cursed by the negative emotions of humanity's sins. This particular one I will show you is the sword, given life by the hatred of people killed by those who wielded it thousands of years ago.

[After a moment, he held the notebook out to be taken. On the page was a highly detailed large-cat-like creature.]

It is said the body it possesses is one formed due to its control over ice, the fangs being it's true form- the broken blade. Most, of course, believe it and the others are mere myth.

[ Xenk observes as Turo sketches the pokémon. He can't exactly know how good of a likeness it is to the real thing, but he assumes Turo is skilled. And he must be, to have so many details in such what might otherwise be a small page. ]

A creature born from a cursed blade... And there are yet three more of them? How fascinating, and how sad, to be born from the hatred of others.

[ Naturally Xenk believes everything about Turo's story, that's really not unheard of in Faerûn either. ]

Edited 2023-09-14 04:15 (UTC)

Indeed. You could think of them as a trickery by them being gifted to a king, but it was said he was greedy beyond measure and it was an act meant to put a stop to it. Many see these Treasures of Ruin as both unfortunate and deadly, but also acting only out of their nature.

Together they destroyed the King of Paldea's castle in ancient times- Paldea is the region I am from, of course, and we hold all parts of history close to be learned from.

[There was evidence that pointed towards the myth being true, of course. One thing he might have enjoyed looking into, if he had ever gotten the chance.]

This particular one is called Chien-Pao.

It is surely a pitiable existence for any creature. Just as man is capable of great kindness, he is capable of great evil.

[ Xenk looks upon the drawing again. And to think there were more of them? These pokemon must be like spirits in Faerun. ]

A ruined kingdom makes a mighty backdrop for a nation.

Bringing ruin simply by existing, created by the pain and hatred born of those having wrong done unto them. Stories based on fact and myth. History shows what man is capable of in both ways indeed.

[With so many shades in-between, things that Turo himself had been able to see. Experience in one hand as another slowly turned into something through obsession that was born out of a desire for something that could have once been good.

Turo nodded.]

It does, and it is still one many seek traveling to due to a richness in recorded history of others all around our world. A great store of knowledge to be learned from, and that produces quite a few strong trainers because of the care put in educating them.

Much of my knowledge comes from there, after all.

[ Xenk nods, his understanding of this land growing with each detail gained. He's starting to see why Turo would become a researcher, if he comes from a land like this. ]

How fascinating. You are fortunate indeed to have such rich history for your studies. Are there other such creatures as this? Do they haunt your lands, or are they oft appeased?

[A hand was held for the notebook back, a motion that he would draw another even as he spoke-]

The entire world holds so many mysteries still when it comes to pokémon, and there is always something new to discover- or simply uncover that had been lost to time.

[-and if given the notebook, the page would be flipped and another sketch started- this time it would be multiple of the same pokémon on the same page.]

There are many- in fact, the area I was before arriving here held many pokémon most thought as mere fairy-tale created by a researcher that delved in to the Great Crater of Paldea. I have the book he wrote with me- but this is one of the first very strange pokémon he encountered.

It is called Iron Treads, and by name you can guess it is very much like Iron Moth and Iron Valiant. Unfortunately one of his party didn't survive the encounter, given how dangerous the Crater and these pokémon truly are for the unprepared.

[In turning the supposedly returned notebook around there was just as detailed images like the single one Turo had drawn, but did clearly show far more familiarity with the subject. Something seen and studied in person-]

It was the book he wrote, his own drawings of what he saw there, which directed my path in life. These mysterious pokémon, and the want to see if they were real for myself. That it was more than just some fantasy and he had found something fantastic in his trip in to the Crater, and in to what is now known as Area Zero.

[The start of why he existed, and so many mistakes were made due to obsession- yet he could not help his own fascination and amazement that was just as much a part of him.]

[ Xenk listens quietly, watching Turo's detailed drawings with interest. His world sounds fascinating, if dangerous for simple researchers like him. The detail in the drawing shows great care for these creatures... ]

I am sorry to hear of their loss. This researcher must have been deeply devoted, to delve so far into so dangerous a place.

[ The things people do for knowledge... even Xenk has his limits, but he has to admire a man like that. ]

ELTRUT: FAREWELL SENDOFF

ELAH: PALADIN BASE

NOGARD: CORSAIR BASE

MANTA BOARD

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