the hideaway ➞ discovering the roost

[ramuhs]

Who: The Hideaway Crew
Status: Closed
Where: Their new island base oooh aaaah
What: Cid has finally located an island that he thinks will suit his growing crew's needs, so it's time for a fun field trip to take it over and claim it for themselves.
Warnings: None...though idk watch out for the couples in this group

THE VOYAGE

The island itself is located somewhat far from the current location of the leviathans, though given how often they move around distance is relative. What makes it a prime location, however, is the fog that obscures it, along with the choppy waters. Not impossible to sail, but enough to make most turn away without knowing what's beyond. Not to mention, it's not on any known route, making it all the more less likely to have much travel. Even with the aid of certain Dominants to help clear away the fog, there's nothing to help soothe those rough seas, so those who are a bit sensitive to sailing may want to stay below deck with a bucket and some medicine, because it's going to be some rough sailing as Cid helps navigate through.

But once they break through the worst of it, the waters calm, the fog fades, and sunlight pours in to reveal a large, rocky island ahead with high peaks. It is a giant ring of large cliffs, making it seem as if it would be impossible to sail into. However, Cid will navigate the ship towards a certain cliff wall where a large waterfall cascades over the side, emptying into the ocean. He'll direct the ship straight towards it, and with the sails lowered, Benedikta will step up like a peacock showing off its plumes, her sisters in tow. The two wind egis take to the air while she remains at front of the deck, and with a single twirl of her wrist, a violent, churning gale forms where she stands along with two more above. It's enough to part the water as they pass through, swirling it within the winds. Everyone had best shield themselves lest they want to get splashed on the way! It won't take long, just less than a minute for the whole length of the ship to cross through, until they are now inside a giant, expansive cavern big enough to house several large ships and even smaller ones with hints of coves that could perhaps hold more.

Those who can conjure flames or light, including Cid with his lightning, will cast their magic outward to help illuminate it all, and Cid will point out what look like ancient stone lanterns lining the walls. Directing the lights towards them will help provide a more stable light source, and now they can more fully see the full expanse of the cavern. Eventually they reach a large shore that has what looks to be the remnants of an old pier and more torches and lanterns to be lit. Only after setting anchor and securing the ship will everyone be able to disembark with Cid's cheerful words to guide them.

"Going to need a bit of fixing and clearing out, but I think this place will do nicely. Just be careful and keep your phones on. We'll need to map this place out so mark everywhere you go and try not to get lost." A grin. "Unless you wish to become a more permanent fixture of the place."

As for those who may ask how the hell he even learned of the island and its location, he'll just shrug and say he "found some interesting records" and thought it would be fun for them to try and explore. Now go on, get to exploring!

I. CAVERNS

If it hadn't already, it will be made immediately clear that people once inhabited the area, the developed dock and leftover remains of items showing signs of frequent use in the past. However, it's not much of a "recent" past. While not much is left behind, the cool atmosphere in the area has managed to preserve the crates that house lanterns, ropes, and other objects that will look as if they are from a time where things were not so technologically advanced, but not primitive, either. There are tools, ropes, replacement lanterns, and other common items that would have been used around ships, but the area is otherwise cleaned out. Whoever used to live here has not been around for some time.

Further exploration will reveal several tunnels that lead to this particularly large "docking cave," but only a select few have old sconces where torches or lanterns used to hang while the rest do not. Following the marked tunnels will lead to various places. Some are short and end in large caves that were once used for storage. But one particular tunnel will lead deep into the cliffs and reveal an expansive cavern that has remains of a small underground city. Sunlight will pour through various large openings in the high cavern ceilings, providing some light to help venture through, though torches and lanterns are still recommended. Perhaps housing a hundred people or so, there are rough stone buildings but most are carved into the stone walls. Investigation will reveal that some have caved in or faced some other kind of destruction, though it's unclear if that was what prompted the original inhabitants' departure or if it happened long after their disappearance. There are no remains and very little personal goods left, but there are some items hidden or buried somewhere in the ruins. Perhaps they could provide some insight.

One particular find will be signs of worship towards the gryphons that inhabit the island. There are many relics in their image and small shrines within the houses, and there is at least one temple dedicated to the beast. Not to mention countless feather motifs found within the stone carvings.

There are numerous other tunnels and caves that surround this particular area, and tunnels that will circle all the way around the entire island, though that may take days if not longer to explore. With plenty of caves, grottos, more secret coves, and exits to the inner island to find, everything is open to any interesting discoveries. Just beware that some may lead to dead ends, natural traps, and hostile creatures that have made their homes there. The original people who used to live here would have also placed traps, so for those who want an old ruin cave adventure, that's possible.

II. INNER ISLAND

Within the island are numerous pockets of dense forests both large and small, some only reachable either through certain tunnels from within the cliff caverns or climbing over and down large hills and cliffs. With tall trees, many different kinds of birds have made their homes here, some that can't be found anywhere else due to the island's isolated location. Other animals include deer, wild pigs, rabbits and other small mammals, foxes, turtles, snakes, and a variety of lizards. The gryphons are the largest predatory animals, though they mostly hunt the deer and large tuna and other fish in the water. There is a variety of vegetation with a number of wild fruits, vegetables, and herbs that can be harvested from the local flora as well, and there may be some island bees to produce honey.

Fresh water is plentiful via numerous streams that flow throughout the island, connecting to the underground pools within the cliff caverns or the large lake hidden in one of the forests. There are also some waterfalls that flow into small pools that can be used for swimming. Some streams will empty directly into the caverns through large openings that create a cavern waterfall into the underground water below. Finally, on the eastern side of the island, there is a stretch of beach that has formed from where the ocean water flows through a hidden, underground opening beneath the cliff walls to form something of a private inner beach. It's shallow, clear, which makes it easier to fish and just relax.

While there are some fields within the forest, the flatter slopes and plateaus of the cliffs provide larger fields of flowers and space for potential farming. There are even some places located near the bottom of the cliffs that show signs of past farming, likely from the tribe that once inhabited the island. While there are some irrigation systems and even a water mill, all will need some repairs and improvements given how much time has passed since it was last inhabited.

III. CLIFF TOPS

High up on the high cliff peaks and plateaus are numerous rooks and aeries that are home to the gryphons, powerful, majestic creatures that have made this island their home. There are other large birds such as eagles and albatross that roost among them, along with some smaller animals and reptiles that can make their home there. Wild cats and some mountain goats can also be found making their homes along the slopes. Murals from within the cave suggest that wyverns may sometimes stop by during their travels, but the gryphons are the primary inhabitant of these high places. Although mostly barren and rocky at the top, there are unique trees and flora that scatter the peaks while the slopes are more abundant in plant growth. Perhaps there are some special herbs could be found growing that could be used for varying purposes.

The gryphons themselves won't bother those who manage to navigate their way onto the island, however it's a different matter if anyone tries to approach them. They are extremely territorial and will show hostility and aggression to those who venture too near up to their nests. However, should anyone manage to earn their trust, they can become fierce allies to help defend the island. Murals within the cave depict how the people who once lived here did once revere them, so perhaps giving tributes or helping them when they are sick or injured will help build trust. Their nests can also be threatened by snakes, large lizards, and even opportunistic birds that dare to try and hunt their eggs or young hatchlings.

IV. WILDCARD

Congratulations, everyone, the Hideaway crew now have their very own island called, "The Roost." The log lasts for the entire month, and once everything has been initially explored and scooped out "construction" can begin or whatever else people may want to do with the island. Feel free to make up whatever you want, whether it be a location, creature, plant, or whatever else might be cool so long as it fits. Characters can also claim whatever house or building or mark a new place for themselves. If a space is needed for a library or a workshop or bathhouse or whatever, boom it exists. There are NPC crew members both human and animalkin alike, mostly to help with sailing the ship, so feel free to use them as well.

Cid has plans to make this a fully operational independent base, so eventually workshops and farming fields will be made. Maybe even a chocobo ranch?? This is so should they ever need to "hide away" for whatever reason, they'll have a safe place to go and be self-sufficient for an extended period of time. Due to the location, Cid will recommend everyone to get their Ring of Returning to Level 3. So go grab yours from the Rewards page if you haven't already!!

For now this is closed to just the crew, but after this month it can be open to friends and CR! All threads in the log are worth 12 points since this is considered a "special quest" for the crew. Threads made outside of the log but are related to the island exploration/happenings will also count for the full 12 points!

GALLERY

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code by efrynidel

Comments

[empyrean_mirror]

They already came right up to me, it's too late for that...

[He's definitely not pouting, especially since he can't cross his arms.] Like I said! We have to coexist with them...it might be easier if they can be befriended and taught, isn't it? This island isn't so big we can avoid the local creatures, and I'd rather exist with them peacefully.

[indispensable]

Last I checked, your occupation was 'architect', not 'animal tamer'.

[Though honestly at this point the latter might as well be a secondary job for Kaveh anyway, given his track record thus far.]

[empyrean_mirror]

And your job was Scribe, not my bodyguard, and yet here we both are.

[Listen he did not choose the disney princess life, the disney princess life chose him.]

[indispensable]

[Does this make Alhaitham some kind of disney prince...]

Oh? Am I meant to be under your employ, now?

[The arm around Kaveh's waist tightens ever so slightly.]

I'll have to negotiate my benefits then.

[empyrean_mirror]

[Kaveh went a little red but if he flusters he loses! So he must soldier on!]

...Hmmph, I didn't say I was hiring! You should know my standards are quite high. If it's benefits you're after, you'll have to meet my demands, too.

[indispensable]

[Just keep on trying, senior, its very amusing to watch.]

Hmm. [A thoughtful hum as his arm around Kaveh's waist tightens even more now, while his other hand comes to rest at Kaveh's hip.] I'm well aware of your standards, and used to your demands, so it shouldn't come as a surprise that I'm confident in meeting all of your requirements.

[He says all that completely guilelessly, without any semblance of shame whatsoever.]

[empyrean_mirror]

T-that doesn't...necessarily mean your requests will be accepted...you haven't even listed your proposed benefits.

[He pokes a finger into one tit pectoral, and lifts his chin a little, defiant, but never does break eye contact...]

Is this really your best idea of negotiation?

[indispensable]

[Alhaitham lets out a small, amused huff here, very clearly enjoying this back and forth that is happening between them right now.]

Then let's start with you, then. What demands are you asking of me, so that I may propose a benefit that suits it?

[His eyes are bright with interest and the promise of a challenge. Come on, senior, time to wow him.]

[empyrean_mirror]

If you're going to be so overbearing and meddlesome about my health, than dedicate some time and effort to my mental wellbeing...use those fancy words you spend so much time studying, if you must.

[Pat his head and praise him, Alhaitham. PRAISE HIM. PRAISE HIM--]

You should also...you should be looking to relieve my stress, not increase it.

[From "rent" to "stress relief".....well, it's closer to the truth.]

[indispensable]

[It's not too hard to figure out what Kaveh is getting at here, but if anything his amusement grows upon hearing those demands. To think that this is the kind of things that Kaveh wants to ask from him...

...not that he minds though. Far from it, if anything.]

I wasn't aware that being a bodyguard would entail such... personal duties.

[There's a small laugh as he huffs out those last two words, and the hand on Kaveh's hip gives a little squeeze.]

[empyrean_mirror]

Didn't you? Your actions seem to contradict that, Alhaitham.

[callin' you out, Haravatat.]

[indispensable]

[Alhaitham has exactly zero shame in being called out. It's easy enough to see the bait for what it is, and in another time and place maybe Alhaitham might have played it out a little more... but he remembers what Kaveh had just said prior, with a kind of forwardness he doesn't tend to let himself have, and Alhaitham would be lying if he said he did not enjoy it.]

Consider that as one of my proposed benefits. [He says this as the hand on Kaveh's hip leaves, siding around the back of Kaveh's waist until he can slip his hand into the deep cut of Kaveh's shirt at the back, feeling the skin there that'd been warmed by the sunlight and the ground he'd been lying on earlier during his impromptu nap.]

[empyrean_mirror]

[Kaveh shudders, his breath hitching, as sensitive to touch as ever. He didn't expect...that Alhaitham would be this amenable. That he'd go along with this so easily.]

Is that all? For all your fussing...you just asked for something I was already listing as one of your duties.

[indispensable]

[There's a soft, contemplative hum as Alhaitham drags his hand up across the expanse of Kaveh's back, fingers trailing over the bumps of the other man's spine. The way Kaveh shakes underneath his touch, the sound of his hitched breath... it never fails to be enticing in all of the best ways.]

And here I thought you'd be pleased to have something that we can both agree on for once. An advantage, for my most erudite senior.

[As far as Alhaitham is concerned, he sees no reason to deny Kaveh something that he can actually bring himself to ask for, especially when it is so inherently the opposite of what he normally does. That selfless nature of his put aside for the moment to actually indulge in his own wants and desires, things he'd otherwise neglect for the sake of others. So how could Alhaitham ever say 'no' to that, especially he gets to enjoy it just as much, if not more?]

[empyrean_mirror]

You know how I feel about ethical compensation...

[He shivers again, but not willing to simply let Alhaitham reduce him to a puddle, he reaches out and plucks one of the earpieces off his head so he can lean in and murmur against that ear.]

And that I won't accept anything less than your best work...knowing that, are these still the only terms you'll set?

[Is it really so easy? Is it really as simple as asking...? That can't be right, it can't have been so easy,a fter all this time.]

[indispensable]

[There's no hiding the faint shiver that works its way through him when Kaveh plucks off one of his earpieces to murmur directly into his ear, but the sensation is a delightful one. Though just about anything that Kaveh does has always been nothing less than that, when it comes to this.]

I would not say it if I were not certain about it. [This, Kaveh should already know. Alhaitham has never been one to say anything if still felt the slightest chance of wanting to take it back.] Now the question is if you are willing to accept.

[In the end, it boils down to the very same thing that has he said before: one can lead a horse to water, or place meat in front of a starving Rishboland Tiger, but all that effort will not mean anything if the horse does not drink, or the tiger does not eat.]

[empyrean_mirror]

What was it you said before, 'for the avoidance of doubt'? I only want to be certain...

[Kaveh snorts, but...he hasn't come this far to back down now.

Those poor foxes have a few complaints, though. Loud, whiny complaints. Their poor innocent eyes.]

...Hm, maybe we should...

[...Not do this in a field.]

[indispensable]

[Unfortunately for Kaveh (and the foxes), Alhaitham has precisely none of the reservations that either of them hold. The hand that's been slowly making its way up the expense of Kaveh's back finally finishes its ascent, arriving at its destination that is Kaveh's head. Once it's there Alhaitham smoothly goes to cup it with that very same hand, and it serves as the only warning that the other man is going to have before Alhaitham leans in to claim Kaveh's lips for a much desired kiss.

Does he think they're going to get to business here? Of course not, he doesn't actually want to roll around in the grass like this. But nothing's stopping him from taking a kiss now since Kaveh so clearly wants it, and Alhaitham has never been one to deny his wants once they rear its head to the surface.]

[empyrean_mirror]

[Kaveh makes a bit of a muffled squeak, startled by the shamelessness (though he really shouldn't be) and enthusiasm on Alhaitham's part, but he melts into that kiss soon enough, lips parting easily in invitation. He winds his arms around the man's shoulders, even, a precaution as his knees start to go weak.

Every since his birthday, Alhaitham's been a little more forward about taking the initiative. Even moreso since their argument. And Kaveh can't pretend it doesn't fill him with something a little like hope, that Alhaitham wants him like this.

Nothing ever goes smooth for Kaveh. But maybe...maybe this time...]

[indispensable]

[Kaveh reaches out for him, and so it is only natural that Alhaitham reaches back in turn. His hold on the back of the other's head becomes more solid and firm, nipping at his bottom lip to have him gasp so that he can deepen the kiss further. The arm around his waist tightens then, Alhaitham pulling Kaveh all the way in until their bodies are fully flush against each other, giving his senior the support he needs to stay upright, with the closeness as a bonus.

The fact that they can do this so easily now, when in the past it has always been nothing more than a tryst in the dark, is something that Alhaitham didn't think would happen, and though he is surprised at the shift that has been happening, he is certainly in no way against it either. To be able to hold Kaveh in his arms, to feel and taste and have him just about anytime and anywhere and know that this, too, is what Kaveh desires... it fills him with a joy that is indescribable, and one he didn't know he could feel until now, when he can have this. He doesn't know how long it will last or if it even can, but he will selfishly hold onto it for as long as he can.

He kisses Kaveh until they're forced to part for air, but even then Alhaitham continues to stay close. He doesn't slacken his hold on Kaveh and instead leans in to nose along the other's jaw, tracing it all the way to where it meets his neck before he dips his head down to nuzzle there instead.]

[empyrean_mirror]

[Kaveh sighs, almost disappointed when Alhaitham finally pulls away, but tips his jaw just so, allowing Alhaitham to nuzzle more into his neck. Just when did this man learn to be so affectionate, anyway? The how and why escapes Kaveh. He supposes it must be him latching onto familiarity in a strange land--back in Sumeru they fucked like wild beasts, and if they fell asleep together after it was only out of exhaustion. It's been so...different, here.

He cannot allow himself to get his hopes up, but oh, Kaveh wants. He is nothing but want.]

...We still shouldn't do this out here, you know.

[He's not a student anymore. Canoodling on wild grass is itchy and uncomfortable and never worth the romanticism of spontaneity.]

[indispensable]

[Alhaitham is more than willing to keep up the attention he is giving to Kaveh for as long as his senior continues to desire it. While there is a pleasure in going at it until they've worn each other out, being able to bask in something like this is also just as good, where he can focus on the warmth and comfort that Kaveh provides. It is hard to imagine how he would've managed being here otherwise, if Kaveh were not around. The thought of it alone is enough to make him want to tighten his hold on Kaveh just a little more.

At Kaveh's remark, all Alhaitham does is to let out another thoughtful hum, acknowledging the words but not doing much else. Still, Kaveh is not left to wonder for too much longer; Alhaitham only allows himself to indulge for a bit more before he shifts, pulling his face away but not his body, for the next thing he does is to shift his hold on Kaveh so as to pick him up off his feet and hold his senior into a princess carry.]

Does my senior have any suggestion on where we should relocate, then? [He asks once he has Kaveh hauled up in his arms, eyes bright and sparkling with amusement from the inventible flustering and embarrassment that Kaveh most likely is displaying right now.]

[empyrean_mirror]

Wha--you--!!

[As predicted, Kaveh yelps and squeaks as he's lifted up rather unceremoniously, though rather than fight to get down, he's resumed his hold around Alhaitham's shoulders, even bright red as he's flushed.]

Just--find somewhere private! Find one of the rooms people are camping in, if you can't stand the ship's cabin even while it's docked!

[indispensable]

Are you suggesting we break and enter just to have sex? I didn't know you were so daring in your deviancy, senior.

[Alhaitham of course totally knows what Kaveh actually means but he can't help but tease, the mirth in his eyes getting brighter after those words. It really is far too entertaining to watch the myriad of ways for Kaveh to flush and get embarrassed.]

[empyrean_mirror]

I said no such thing! Don't twist my words, Haravatat!

[Kaveh splutters, and thwaps his fist against Alhaitham's shoulder in protest. Not nearly hard enough to hurt, never that hard, but he needs to make his displeasure known!]