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

[ 📌 a. mount grog]

[Originally, Joshua wasn't going to participate in many of these departing activities. Much more content to explore the area to take in a few sights and read a few books before heading to his designated ship to head for Nogard (although he does want to see the conservatory in elah too...). But at some point, Joshua has found himself roped into the obstacle course much like many others.

The top of Mount Grog doesn't seem entirely far to get to. These days he's a little more acclimated to traveling and hiking so that isn't going to be a problem. But the steaming pools of alcohol could be a problem if he takes one wrong step up the mountain.

... He's not entirely good at handling alcohol? So falling into a pit of hot pirate grog or getting a face full of ale-laced steam might just put him out. Nonetheless, Joshua is going to attempt his best.]

We must reach the top as a team, is it?

[ 📌 b. departing eltrut]

[Eventually Joshua does get his wish to enjoy the last few peaceful days in Eltrut before departing. He can be found near one of the newly repaired docks with a notebook in hand as he flips through the pages and jots down a few random notes in the pages with a feathered quill. He looks peaceful and contemplative. Perhaps he's writing a letter for later...?

After a moment he may look up at the washing waves. And then hold out his hand to let a small flame appear in the center of his palm. He watches the fire with a fond expression before it vanishes in favour of a small almost unnoticeable wince.]

[ 📌 c. black market]

[Nogard is marvellous. In a lot of ways, it reminds Joshua of places he's visited before and of the great Hideaway that he's come to call a second home. It's lively and full of adventure and stories and dark secrets. All things that might just pick at Joshua's interest.

Along the way, Joshua does find himself attempting to help a local shop with a delivery when he finds the shopowner arguing with a master outside. Apparently, a very important box needed to be delivered and the delivery man mysteriously never showed up to start the job. Something about a "special" and "rare" item that needed to be moved. Without thinking more of it Joshua approached to take the job on.

Yet, it proves dangerous when Joshua starts the trip through Nogard. A shadow is watching him from dark corners and alleyways. Joshua can feel eyes watching him, almost like a vulture who's waiting for him to trip.

Luckily he's picked up a Camouflage Cloak so one moment Joshua will be visible and the next he won't be. But that invisibility doesn't last long. Joshua is still being stalked.

Either notice Joshua vanishing in plain sight for a few moments or find Joshua just as he gets confronted by a thief with a curved blade in hand. Joshua will stand his ground and pull his own sword for a fight.]

Go on, try and take it. I will not make it easy for you.

[Little does Joshua know that he probably has something incredibly illegal and rare in his possession?]

[ 📌 e. wildcard]

[got something else? feel free to put it down here. i'm also open to bottle voyage messages or any of the bounties if you would rather do something like that! you can also find my cr meme here for plotting.]

[ Maybe Joshua has seen her around the Corsair ship in the last week, preferring to stick close unless she had business in Eltrut. Some of which may have been shady business. Now she's heading his direction.

Well, not exactly towards him, just to this particular dock. She moves to pick up a box of what appears to be tools and supplies, only to pause and look at him. ]

What are you doing?

[Joshua catches the voice and looks up from his palm to her while allowing the fire to vanish from his hand.]

My apologies, I must have gotten lost in my thoughts.

[He's doing nothing, don't worry about it.

And he has seen her around before. He hasn't gotten the chance to get acquainted with her although it appears they may be sharing a ship soon.]

Do you need help with those supplies? Please allow me, my lady.

[wtf so formal.]

Edited 2023-09-13 02:18 (UTC)

[ He looked like he was in control of the flame, so she doesn't call him out on spacing out while holding something capable of setting the dock on fire. ]

Seems like it was something big to be thinking about.

[ To not even notice the presence of another, especially when there are likely shady characters (spoilers: Velvet) around. She already knows his older brother, now getting to meet the reason for revenge.

They will be spending some time together, believe it or not, but she can get along with other people. ]

It's Velvet. So don't call me that. [ Even when she was human, Velvet didn't like such things. More of a tomboy than a lady. ] Help if you want if your business here is done.

[Joshua can be a big thinker and lost in his thoughts sometimes. Perhaps that is why he needs someone like his brother to be watching his back.

He nods politely at her request. He starts for the other crates there and moves to pick up one.]

Velvet. Please, call my Joshua as well. I assume you are also departing on the Stormbringer today?

[ 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.

[Oh. She's ... strong as hell.

Joshua keeps his surprise to himself. They start for the planks that lead up to the Stormbringer.]

Is that so? Do you plan on starting your own crew? That's very ambitious.

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[ It appears as though their time in Eltrut is short and fleeting and with the impending need to move on and head out to sea means that everyone will be going their own way.

Well, at least, for Dion he will be taking that trip on his own compared to those he's familiar with. He's preparing, having picked up a rucksack of some kind as he's moving towards the shipyard when he catches sight of Joshua.

Should he say something before he departs? Perhaps he should.

Dion approaches, loud enough to be heard so as not to startle the Phoenix. ]

How are you faring, Joshua? [ Yeah, that's still a little weird, but he's rolling with it. ]

[He looks up from his musing and catches Dion there. A small quiet smile appears on his face.]

Dion, it's good to see you. I'm doing alright.

[By now he's noticed that Dion is with an entirely different crew. That means they would be parting ways very shortly. While Joshua thinks he should have asked for more time to talk with Dion before that... He will keep that to himself.]

I see you're also preparing for your journey out?

Likewise. [ He's happy enough to exchange pleasantries with him and he mods his acknlowledgement. ]

That's correct. I've managed to collect a bit of coin, and a few basic supplies for the voyage, although it's difficult to say how long we'll be at sea.

[ He is...not exactly a master of the ocean. He's going to have a lot to learn to contribute to his crew. His short stints with Clive, Joshua and Mid weren't much to write home about. ]

Are you prepared?

[He wouldn't call himself an expert sailor by any means but he does have some idea of how long a ship travelling will take within mild weather conditions.]

From what I understand my own journey is to take about three days, give or take.

[Which isn't entirely long but it can feel that way.]

And from there, I assume I'll be staying there for a while to acclimate. As far as being prepared... well. I'm embarrassed to admit that I've only purchased a few interesting local books so far.

[Don't worry, he still has some time to get a few needed things.]

I suppose it must be about that, but hopefully my constitution will keep up. [ Dion feels like he will lose all manner of dignity if he happens to get seasick. No thank you. He has to hold onto something! ]

Far be it for me to tell you what to bring, but I've packed some additional food, just in case.

[ He doesn't really know what he's walking into. ]

[That might have Joshua raising an eyebrow.]

Oh? I was unaware that Bahamut had a weak constitution.

[With all the flying they do it's almost amusing to Joshua to think some water moving would make Dion's stomach weak.]

If you're willing, there is a shop with medicinal wares nearby. I could help you find something that will help keep your stomach agreeable?

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phoenixdominant - 2023-10-03 02:29 (UTC) - Expand

Meow?

[Amidst the tense atmosphere between the thief and Joshua a cat's meow can be heard, loud enough to grab the attention of both individuals in the alley. The source of the noise appears to be a black cat-like creature, its grinning face bobbing up and down enticingly as it meows cutely.]

[That cute little meow will be the only warning given before a loud, flashy bang! explodes, sending sparks of colourful light bursting from the dark alley. If that doesn't take the thief's attention, the swift kick to the side from the shadows surely will.]

[For a good few seconds the meowing creature does have both the thief and Joshua's attention. They stop and stare at the thing with utter ... awe and confusion.

... But the flashy bang!! has Joshua raising his arm to shield his eyes. The explosion is flashy and full of lights and fire and does enough to make the thief howl in frustration and tumble backwards.

Joshua regains his composure.]

Please take that as your cue to yield.

[The thief, stunned by the flashbang and bowled over by the swift kick, curses out as they struggle to get to their feet. But while they do, a hand will grasp around Joshua's wrist, firm but not rough or tugging. And from the shadows, a familiar voice will speak in Lyney's ear.]

I think it's about time we disappear, your highness.

[That's all the warning Joshua will get before Lyney is tugging him deeper into the alley, away from the struggling thief. The cat chases after them, hopping on and off the thief's back in the process to further knock the thief over again.]

[Joshua was prepared for more of a fight since he's not usually the one running away. Always having Clive fight for him is something he's more accustomed to. He'd been ready to cast a fire spell or more. But the message in his ear alongside the tugging has Joshua changing direction quickly.

The thief will be too preoccupied with fire and fireworks to chase after them luckily!

Down the alleyway is where Joshua takes a moment to catch his breath. Feeling a painful stab in his lungs as he tries to suppress a cough.]

Lyney. I was not expecting your aid tonight, you have my thanks.

[Once they're far enough away, Lyney will also take a moment to catch his own breath in the now-quiet alley. Aside from the bustle of the street further down, they're effectively alone here now. After a few breaths, Lyney lets out one more breath before straightening.]

Whew! That sure was a performance I wasn't expecting! [Turning to Joshua, he smiles with a pleasant nod.]

Think nothing of it, your highness! I couldn't exactly sit by and watch while a friend was in dire need, now could I?

[A meow catches his attention, and he turns just in time to watch as Rosseland hops up onto his shoulder, tail wagging. He chuckles and scratches the cat's chin.]

And thank you Rosseland, for your part in the performance! [While the cat purrs on his shoulder, Lyney turns to Joshua.]

So, might I ask what caused all that ruckus between you and that fellow back there? Something tells me you two aren't exactly friends.

Thank you, both of you. You certainly showed them a show-stopping ending.

[The sight of that pretty and oddly shaped cat makes Joshua smile but he's not one to judge a friend by their looks. Lyney and his cat friend just helped him out of a bad situation.

He then pulls a small package out of his tunic which is wrapped in black ribbons.]

I was en route to deliver this package, and my assumption is that the man wanted to claim whatever is concealed within it for himself.

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phoenixdominant - 2023-10-31 01:19 (UTC) - Expand

[ Oh but the stalker is also being stalked. G'raha absolutely doesn't need anything like a Camouflage Cloak to disappear. A simple Vanish spell and he can follow these unsavory persons that are following after someone else.

So when Joshua turns around to face them? G'raha will drop his own spell. Staff raised. ]

Mind if I assist?

[ Now the thief is caught between two individuals! ]

[Joshua is surprised by his sudden party member but as he's been acquainted with him Joshua will not turn away someone who's here to help him.]

You are more than welcome to help shift the tides.

[Meanwhile, the thief looks at the two of them and cowers. Two against one? That is not his cup of tea. He shakes as he takes a step back and cowardly holds his knife up.]

"Slimy of ye to gang up on an old man, you two-time shitting bastards."

You claim to be of a certain age that would yield a certain level of respect. Yet you are so full of vim and vigor as to sneak up on another.

[ G'raha once more tilts his staff towards the would-be assailant. Really it is up to Joshua to determine how best to manage such a nuisance. ]

"Old man" indeed.

[ Somehow G'raha looks... Amused. ]

[His newly acquired partner has some battle rizz about him. Joshua is slightly taken off guard by it. But it's welcomed, nonetheless.]

Which means you might wish to reconsider your choice of words, considering it was you who approached us surreptitiously.

[Karma is one heck of a thing.

Now the man seems to be uncertain if he wants to engage with the both of them because a slimy thief is usually a cowardly one. ... He dares to catch them with a small bomb that the thief throws to the ground which ignites a loud firecracker-like explosive that will potentially blind or burn them. The smell of gunpowder and burning sears the air. And Joshua only barely gets his arm up to shield his face.]

Hn!

[He quickly brings his hand out and an eruption of fire magic blasts at the man point blank in return, taking him back a foot and making him shout and try to run.]

[ G'raha moves quickly though. He throws his staff out and casts a barrier around Joshua and himself. Something that should soak any potential damage.

Though he's quite surprised that there is flame shooting forth from Joshua's hand. Even G'raha has to shift and move out of the way. He puts up the staff in favor of a sword and shield.

This way he can bash the assailant to the ground. ]

[With the assailant on the ground the man basically gives up. He lets out a howl of anger and frustration before he falls limp against the ground.]

"Ye bastards... Racoon smelling shits..."

[The barrier is enough to save them from the damage of the bomb, though. Joshua clears his vision comes to the two of them and reaches down to take back the stolen package from the man.]

We'll be taking this back and delivering it to the proper recipient. Be on your way or lose more than just your dignity.

[Joshua is hiding the fact that his hand is shaking.]

ELTRUT: FAREWELL SENDOFF

ELAH: PALADIN BASE

NOGARD: CORSAIR BASE

MANTA BOARD

Joshua Rosfield | Final Fantasy XVI | Corsair

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