« player event » 🌪️ the eye of the storm

[seaboards]

Who: Garuda & YOU.
Status: Open log.
Where: Eltrut, Nogard.
What: Benedikta Harman has primed into Garuda, and is wreaking havoc on the Leviathans.
Warnings: Violence, Final Fantasy XVI spoilers.

"The Warden of the Wind. She takes the form of a fearful harpy, summoning storms and tearing into the flesh of her prey with hawklike talons. Such is the Eikon's frenzy for destruction that even allies of the Dominant of the day are wont to begin fleeing the battlefield when dark clouds gather overhead."

The morning of May the 4th starts out like any other: calm waters, clear blue skies, ships coming and going from their ports. However, all of that is about to change—and abruptly—as Benedikta Harman soars over the ocean after learning the painful truth about the fate of Cidolfus, and of herself. Her wrath now unbound and unmatched, all coming to a head as her aether bursts at the seams, a storm gathers on the horizon. With every angry beat of her wings, the skies turn a dark, eerie green, the winds grow stronger, and Garuda's voice is louder as laughter rings clearer for the first time since that one fateful dawn...

Benedikta & Garuda's Wrath (Final Fantasy XVI spoilers)

Her wings are tired, her face stings with the burn of sharp tears and sharper winds that follow after her, but she does not stop. She cannot. Any other day, she would never make it this far, but her body and the air are dense with her aether that she can fly farther and faster than she has ever managed—in no particular direction, so long as it is a direction away from him. Away from the place where she thought home could be. How naive she was to think that anywhere could be; how ignorant of her to have lit even the smallest spark of hope that things could be any different than before.

Reckless to think that trusting anyone, especially after a whole life of never affording to, would end in anything but deceit.

They all leave. They always leave.

Just like they had then, six years ago on that fateful night in Stonhyrr, those claws of betrayal coil tight around her throat and sink deep into flesh. Only this time, who is there to catch her?

The thought of that wide, open freedom that always followed Cidolfus wheresoever he went frightened her to no end. To her, it meant the unknown that came with running away, being whisked on the back of the winds, to a place where she would not know if, when next she landed, there would be a ground beneath her feet. His betrayal left her on her back once before, and she had been fool enough to take that risk again. Six years in an empty pursuit in his absence, chasing what she thought to be stability, power, and even love in another—her king, touch-starved and hunting any warmth that she could find, is what had her listening to the promises he whispered into her ear again. It is what made her take that plunge into that vast unknown, made her lean into his easy-going benevolence...

And look at where it has led her.

Back then, she had King Barnabas to pull her back on her feet. He would show her a better world, through what they both knew to be empty platitudes, and hearts that did not belong to the other, but she would be loyal. She would be good. She would be everything that Cid could not be. She would do his bidding to prove to him—and most importantly, to the rest of the world, and to herself—that she could be valuable. Powerful. Yet, what she thought was love, she realised in hindsight, was nothing more than a passion for his insurmountable power. A stable place above all the rest who thought they could cut her down. And it was his power that gripped her like a vise—she feared him, and yet, she was still loyal.

Look at what trust and loyalty have wrought.

Destined to loneliness and desperation.

Falling, falling...

Alone and afraid, a wrath now unbound as she soars over the bone dragon's head. Fumbling in the dark, she is trying to catch the pieces of herself that have shattered and are now being scattered into the wind—how the fuck is she supposed to put herself back together now?

A tool for love. A way to atone for his past sins. A way to "save her" where he could not before, and to fulfill a promise he could not uphold the first time. To make up for past mistakes so that he may now live with himself. Because that was all she was, wasn't she? A remnant, a ghost of a broken past that haunted him.

A tool for war. Even in death, she was nothing more than that. The king that she pledged her utmost fealty to then saw fit to use her however he wanted. Her body was desecrated and turned into an instrument to fuel the war between cruel men and crueler gods. Nothing more than a vessel for power. Nothing more than Garuda.

Falling...

So why does she refuse her? Why has she been so afraid of her? She should embrace her Eikon again. Become one with her once more, all fangs and no mercy, because that was all she was ever seen as: a source of power, of redemption, but they were not her own. They were never to be her own.

Tighter, the claws squeeze, and Benedikta screams and screams until she can no longer breathe. Until it is no longer her own screams, but Garuda's.

This wretched world... With wretched people...

Liars. Maggots. All of them. They all knew, and they lied.

She is afraid, but she is angry, and she has learned that it is easier to let in the rage than it is the fear. It was at Garuda's hand that she had died before, but that would not happen this time, that voice promises her. Garuda will protect her, swathe her in her comforting winds and rip apart everything that has and could hurt her.

The sky above Nogard falls dark, almost black. The waters rage as the wind abruptly picks up, lightning cracks, and a violent, swirling gale descends, only growing.

Let me help you. Let us show them what happens when they hurt you. Again and again...

If only Barnabas could see her now in all her strength. All power coursing through her pulsing aether, not an ounce of humanity left. This is what he wanted, isn't it?

She can at least take solace in the fact that Cidolfus is here. He could not keep his promise, could not save her, and instead, he lied to her, deceived her. In return, she will hate and hurt with all her love. She will let the fury take her. She will tear it all apart, and he will have to watch, knowing that he did this.

So much for your fucking redemption now.

DIE, DIE... DIE...

And from that whirling gale, she emerges. No longer is it Benedikta at the eye of the storm, but the true Warden of the Wind, the Eikon, Garuda, a reckless harpy with four wings wider than any bird's, claws that could split a man open in a single swipe, and fangs that could rip flesh from bone. With them all bared, her laughter echoes across the sea and sky.

Freedom. She is untethered, let out of the cage that Benedikta chained her in for so long.

And she will ravage this world in her name. Now fall...

WEATHERING THE STORMS

The moment that Nogard senses that something is amiss, its flesh will reform to protect itself and the villages within from the worst of the storms. While the Leviathan does get battered and the winds persist even after its body takes shape, Fang and its docks will be saved from the tidal surges that are bound to come and, upon seeing Garuda take off in the direction of Eltrut, the dragon will follow after her, roaring across the seas to send a signal of warning to the others to either flee or shield.

Heeding its call, the Naughtilust and Norhpip will retreat while Elah comes to their aid. Paladins will be encouraged by Elah to assist with rescue efforts—brave the storms and head out to sea to help. Those who do not wish to face the harpy's wrath can take refuge on the whale's back. But it will be Eltrut that will receive the brunt of Garuda's attacks, and where her magic will be most potent, the build-up of her aether coming to a head when she lands on the turtle's back.

Harsh, hurricane-like winds will assault Eltrut, and with them, a sense of dread and trickles of sadness fall upon the Leviathan. With Eltrut docked at an island, it's easier to see what is about to happen: the tide recedes, and on the horizon, the shadow of a giant tsunami wave guided by the wind approaches. While Eltrut can shield itself with its bubble, it will still need some help!

Using whatever magic is available—and necessary—everyone will have to work together to help Eltrut withstand the worst of it and, when the tide hits, it's best to be holding onto something, or someone, as Eltrut will be knocked around a bit before stabilising. Unfortunately, with the water's far too choppy to swim in, everyone will have to wait it out and work together to reduce the magic, and hope that someone comes along soon to take care of the harpy that keeps tearing through its shields.

🏝️ On Land. For those stuck on Eltrut or Nogard, the storms are just as fierce. With winds strong enough to rip the trees from their roots, shatter glass, and throw large objects around, it is imperative that people help each other find shelter and safety, and those with shielding magic use it, especially around the docks. Help the locals, assist the merfolk that have been washed up back into the water. There are weaponsmiths asking anyone with a set of hands to help craft things like harpoons and arrows that will be useful against the creatures that now roam the Leviathans.

🌊 Out at Sea. Crews will need to batten down the hatches and work together to weather the storms as well as rescue anyone else, including locals, who might be out there. Though, it is recommended that people try to outrun them as that is one big wave that is heading for Eltrut. Thanks to Garuda's magic, some of the wildlife have grown wings, and sharks are chomping down on boats and even leaping onto decks in search of a good meal.

☁️ In the Air. Male gryphons from The Hideaway's island will arrive to aid those who wish to take to the skies for search and rescue efforts. They are still wary and a bit erratic from being attacked earlier on the island, so working together to earn their trust will be imperative. Offering them food or small gifts such as feathers or beads will appease them, as well as protecting them from oncoming attacks from their fellow birdkin. Once in the air, riding on gryphon-back will take some getting used to, as they will always travel in pairs, and will employ tactical maneuvers to dodge the debris and any creatures that attack.

With their homes partially destroyed by the massive wave, some of the merfolk have come to aid not only their own that have been washed up onto land, but those who hope to alleviate the stress on the Leviathans, whether it be rescue efforts or fighting off the birds and winged sharks. They have offered their herd of seahorses for people to ride on, but they are a bit temperamental, especially with all the chaos, so they will need to be calmed first before they can be ridden.

All threads will be worth 4 points.

( Bonus ♫ )

BIRDS OF A FEATHER

It isn't just the violent skies and seas that pose a problem. Garuda's magic has somehow affected all of the birdkin and bird folk alike across Nogard and Eltrut. What once were peaceful, friendly creatures have now turned on others, as well as each other, and will be attacking and fighting on the streets.

More than that, while some birds have transformed into menacing beasts large enough to pick up a whole person—sometimes two—there are also dozens and dozens of Wind Elementals that have spawned all around the Leviathans, all of them under the command of Benedikta's sisters, Chirada and Suparna, the strongest of them. They hardly ever leave one another's side, but when they are provoked, they will not hesitate to attack. To make matters worse, when threatened, they will tether their aether to each other to make themselves more immune and to regenerate. They are fast, agile, with wide wingspans and talons that will rip anyone apart if they manage to catch them. They are weak to lightning magic and can be held off by the plumes found throughout the forest, and destroying them will buy time for those fighting the smaller Egis to defeat them... However, be warned, they will only respawn again elsewhere, and will keep doing so until Garuda is chased away. (Note: this video of their boss fight can be referred to if needed.)

🐦 Birds and Birdfolk. Beware of feathered friends! Garuda's magic has made both the birds of the islands and the bird folk particularly aggressive. Bird folk will be quick to anger, and those caught up in the worst of the effects will attack anyone unprovoked for so much as looking at them. The only cure for this is taking out the Wind Elementals that have spawned, as they are what sustains Garuda's magic. In the meantime, until they can be destroyed, luring them further away and outside of town or finding a humane way to knock them out for the time being will work to help alleviate the threats at the eye of the storm. Cats will also be effective against them. Be careful, however—the birds are capable of stealing the breath of anyone who wanders too close, strangling them through lack of air.

🌪️ Wind Elementals. Minions of Garuda herself, these Wind Egis will indiscriminately pick out anyone they find to assault with their large wings, sharpened talons, and powerful wind magic. Men will be carried out to sea where they will attempt to drown them, while women will be carried to "safety" in the nests that the birds have built within the forests. Defeating them is the key to weakening Garuda's magic, so take them out by any means necessary. Note: Players are free to use and control the Egis however they want.

🪹 Within the Nest. For those caught in the nest, escaping on the ground will be the only way out as horrific winged beasts and Egis guard the skies. Beneath the trees, people will need to carve out a path through the messy vines and thorns. It will be safer with a partner, as all sorts of horrors lurk. Eldritch hummingbirds, cassowary, magpies, human-sized hawkmoths, guineafowl, pelicans, and a strange breed of geese that are prepared to feed on or tear apart anyone who might threaten their nest.

There will occasionally be white plumes that will flutter down from the skies. These feathers are from Garuda's wings, and gathering them will provide a ward to protect one from harm for a short period of time. They can shield against one hit or act as a repellent to the birds and the Egis before they are destroyed. Search for them in the treetops and the vines, gather them, and they should be shared so that everyone can make it out of the forest safely. If anyone is able to collect enough of them, they will have healing wind properties that can mend small wounds and cuts.

For those at The Roost (the Hideaway crew's island), the gryphons will be up in arms, not only because one of their nests has been destroyed, but because Benedikta's uncontrollable magic has bled into them, too. The female gryphons, led by the Matriarch, will attack the males, and a fight will break out among them. The males will flee down into the Roost to seek help, but the females will surely soon follow. Killing the gryphons is not an option, and anyone who threatens the lives of the females will have to get through the males in spite of this war, so they will need to be chased off for now. In return, the males will allow anyone to ride on their backs and carry them to Eltrut should they wish to help there.

All threads will be worth 4 points.

( Bonus ♫ )

THE LADY OF THE WIND

For those few who are brave enough to encounter Garuda and live to tell the tale, and those fewer who are daring enough to chase her down seeking to clip the vengeful harpy's wings, they will likely not have to look very far. Garuda is a mischievous and wicked Eikon, chaotic, as if she were made of the winds and storms herself, and through all of the destruction she brings, she also finds enjoyment in taunting others, sometimes swooping down or over one's head just to toy with those on the ground before flying off again.

If she is feeling particularly naughty, she may even kidnap a few, scooping them up in her claws and flying them off someplace else... just for fun. Whether it is the nest, into the sky, out to sea, who knows, but one thing is for certain... one does not want to be engaged with her for long, lest they wish to feel just how sharp her claws and fangs truly are...

Try as they might, however, it will take the might of another full Eikon to take her down, and the battles will end as Ramuh, the Warden of Thunder, makes his appearance and chases her away from Eltrut, and they will face off against one another over the ocean.

Note: This portion of the log is closed to those who signed up for an encounter with Garuda. Please leave a starter at your designated top level down below! They will be worth 6 points.

( Bonus ♫ )

This is the designated log for a player-run (garudas) mini-event. After revelations came about surrounding her fate, Benedikta Harman primed into her full Eikon, Garuda, and she is now ravaging the seas, skies, and land.

Players are free to make their own top levels and tag around, and those who have signed up to face Garuda can leave their starters beneath their designated top levels. Information can be found on the OOC post and please direct any questions here. New players/characters are free to tag into this as well, as this is all occurring after their arrival.

The event and its effects will last less than one day ICly and will have a resolution, so there will be no bearing on anything afterward. Any post-Garuda events will be on the main monthly log that will be going up, including Leviathan clean-up and helping the mermaids after parts of their underwater dwelling were ruined by the wave that hit Eltrut.

Comments

CLOSED 🍃 GARUDA ENCOUNTERS

[garudas]

( For those who have signed up. )

🌪️ Kaveh & Alhaitham

[garudas]

→ Plotting comments

🌪️ G'raha Tia

[garudas]

→ Plotting comment

🌪️ Gale Dekarios

[garudas]

→ Plotting comment

🌪️ Darin Altway

[garudas]

→ Plotting comment

🌪️ Faris Scherwiz

[garudas]

→ Plotting comment

🌪️ Zack Fair

[garudas]

→ Plotting comment

⚡ CLOSED TO CIDOLFUS/RAMUH

[garudas]

[ramuhs]

« cut for length and slight spoilers »

[This is a complete disaster.

As he and Gale swiftly fly over the oceans atop Kaj, the golden brown patriarch of the Roost's gryphons, Cid ends up explaining more about the situation to Gale. His relationship with Benedikta, the truth about his death and how he kept it from Benedikta for longer than he should have, to her learning about it through someone else before he could tell her. He knew it would upset her for a number of reasons, but this? He has to admit he didn't expect her to fly off in such a dangerous state, and while he can't help suspect there's something more or deeper to it, given how things happened between them he can only believe that he himself is ultimately to blame.

Which is one of the many reasons why he is also the one who needs to stop her. The only one who can. Clive may have fought her before, but he at least had land to fall back on. If she's over open water, he would be at a great disadvantage and more importantly, Clive would be too distracted about Joshua's condition. Not only that, the last thing he needs is for Benedikta to be reminded of the last time she faced Ifrit—and he doesn't need it, either. Doesn't need the reminder or the threat of losing her the same way again. So while he wasn't able to before, he isn't going to allow history to repeat itself. This time, it's his responsibility to try and not only stop Garuda, but bring Benedikta back.

Home.


Though whether she will even want to after all this...is not something he wants to think about now. As much as he wants to be with her, as much as how blissful the past few weeks, months have been with her and how they were starting to see a glimpse of a hope of that future that was so terribly snatched away from them in their first lives, he knows reality. He knows he can't force her to stay with him if after all this she no longer loves him. He could beg and plead all he wants, but at the end of the day, it will be her decision...and he will have to respect that.

Just like he had to respect her choice six years ago.

A choice he hated, argued over, but in the end he had to just let it be because it was her choice and he is a man who respected one's autonomy above all, even if he may not like or agree to it. And while he may should have just gone against her decision back then and taken her screaming with him until she saw reason...he can't do the same now. This is a completely different kind of choice for a different kind of life for a different reason.

But even if she hates him...as long as she is alive. As long as he can bring her back so that she will not be consumed by Garuda again. As long as he can at least fulfill that promise to her, then he will do whatever it takes and worry about the consequences after.

It is with this resolve that he continues to fly towards where the winds grow stronger and the waters below are broken by choppy waves, the trail of her aether tingling over his skin. By now he's grown sensitive to it, as if it had slowly started becoming a part of him. And through it, he can feel her rage, her despair—the madness that reminds him again of what happened in Norvent Valley. He had hoped that she had maintained her senses, but as they see the thick storm clouds in the far distance and hear the faint echo of Nogard's call, he knows without a doubt that his worst fears had come to pass.

Urging Kaj on faster, the gryphon lets out a sharp cry before tucking in its wings and casting its own specialized wind magic to increase speed, the three of them cutting through the stormy skies. It still takes some time to cross the vast ocean especially when hampered by the stormy gales, and Garuda had long already unleashed her fury upon Eltrut. When they finally get close enough, Cid doesn't need to see the giant Eikon to know Garuda is there—he can feel her, hear her shrieks and cries, her laughter. It all just brings back those memories and there's a surge of his own aether, thunder suddenly roaring above them as the already dark clouds change and swirl, as if gathering for yet another storm. Without any warning, lightning crackles around him, startling Kaj and Gale as Cid roars in anger, his aether reaching its peak...!

...

Only for him to swear a maelstrom as he primes into that miniature "toy form" instead, almost tumbling away in the wind before Gale manages to grab him with his spectral hand. Clearly this is not what he intended and this is going to be a major setback if he can't fully prime like Benedikta managed with Garuda. And he has to wonder how did she? He even feels Ramuh inside him ready to burst out, an emotional storm that sent his aether into a frenzy ready to be unleashed, but...this? What is he supposed to do like this, fly up to her face and stab her in the eyes with this toothpick of a staff!?

Needless to say, there is no way he is going to be able to charge in, however Gale has faith in him. For now, Gale directs Kaj to bring them down to a somewhat safe space on the edge of Eltrut. Seeing the wreckage of Garuda's storms only hasten the need for Cid to get whatever shit he needs to gather so he can fully prime properly. In the meantime, the mage would join in the attempt to stop Garuda, even if only to buy Cid more time.

But Cid knew time is not something he has a lot of. On the flyover he had noticed and recognized many people on the leviathan, and briefly has the thought of going to Dongfang Qingcang for that energy boost he once tested with him before. But he immediately discards the idea right after, knowing that power is better used in the shields the god is creating for the defenses. But the idea does remind him of the vial Alfyn had gifted him before he left.

With simple concentration, he transforms back into his human form, immediately staggering as he clutches his chest with one hand and grabs a nearby railing with the other, gasping for a moment. Is this why he couldn't immediately prime? His condition? Again, why did the timing have to be so fucked up—

Gritting his teeth, he fishes out the vial and without any further delay he gulps it all down in one go. Tossing it to the side, he hangs his head over the railing, calming his mind. He can hear the fighting, the shouting, the screaming, the crying—the splintering of trees, the groaning and creaks of buildings tested by the roaring winds and crashing waves. But most of all, he can hear her. Like a poisonous lark, the voice of Garuda drowns out everything else, her rage and insanity cutting through and going straight to his heart where the blade of guilt and regret have already sunken in deep. But rather than continue to wallow in that darkness, he uses it as his focus. Uses the taunts of that Eikon's voice to remind him why he's here and what he's come to do. That the voice he hears is not her voice. That behind that madness is a young woman hurt and betrayed, crying out in her own despair and fear.

Liar!

Liars, all of you!

Because i-it's... It's not true. Tell me that it isn't, Cidolfus.

Tell me!

Why didn't you tell me...!

It doesn't matter anymore if he's the cause of it or not, if he had a hand in it or not. It doesn't matter if she'll come to hate him later.

You say that, and yet... you never thought I deserved it enough to tell the truth... And to hear it from him, of all the people—!

You conveniently forgot, and then proceeded to lie to me about everything else. And I was stupid enough to trust you. To place my faith in you... and in him!

The fact that you lied at all, Cidolfus!

He has to be the one up there.

I let myself open up to you, I made promises with you, tried to forget everything that you have done...

No one else.

You promised!

He stares down at the pendant resting in the palm of his hand, the remnants of the broken chain hanging over, swaying against the wind.]

I promised...and I'll save you. [His hand clenching into a fist, levin once more crackles around it as he stares up at Garuda knocking away those who are trying to fight against her.] It's time to take you home.

[No matter the costs. With Ramuh roaring and rumbling inside, he once more gathers his aether. This time, although he feels that same spike, he focuses more, concentrates more. Where Garuda had let her emotions overtake it, and while it may have also worked for Cid, this time he keeps his focus, his resolve, his determination. Desperation and need are mixed in as well, but he can't lose himself completely. If he does, he may be no better than Garuda and his actions could be more impulsive and destructive in his attempt to confront the Eikon. Perhaps that was why Ramuh reacted as it did, forcing him into that smaller form instead. Or perhaps it really was due the lack of energy, energy that now feels renewed thanks to Alfyn's vial. It isn't enough to bring him to full power...but it is enough to help him get there, and he will pull himself the rest of the way. More of his aether swirls around him, the blues and purples lightning buzzing and dancing around him as he continues to charge, and perhaps Garuda may sense his presence now. Sense that Ramuh has appeared and is nearby. And should she look to where he once stood, there will be no one there. Just the faint trace of levin and aether, a few sparks that linger before they are carried into the wind. If she's distracted, or even if she isn't, his presence will appear and disappear until—]

Benna.

[His voice is quiet yet clear despite the winds howling around her. A low rumble like quiet thunder, rippling through the air into her ear. It's just one word, her name—a name she said he had no right to anymore but he can't help but call her by it, anyway. But there is a steady strength in his voice, a quiet beckoning. To cruelly pull at her heart while trying to get her attention. To try and reach the woman trapped within her Eikon. A small hope that he knows will not be answered now but is cast out there regardless.

And after a brief quiet lull, there is a thunderous roar that erupts behind her, the dark storm clouds churning high above as large bolts of lightning descend around her, striking the water and causing steam to rise as it boils. It is not to strike her, but an announcement.

Of the arrival of Ramuh, the Eikon and Warden of Thunder.]

Joshua Rosfield 🐦 Final Fantasy XVI | Corsair

[phoenixdominant]

[🔥 a. post garuda and ultima: closed to crewmates]

[note: spoilers for ffxvi]

[The winds howl and the storms gather strength. The ocean churns violently, its waves crashing against each other in a tumultuous dance. Dark clouds loom overhead, heavy with the promise of a tempest. Angry gusts whip in every direction, carrying the scent of impending chaos. In the midst of it all is Joshua, after an incident involving him and Benedikta, leaving her angry and rampaging and him on the brink of …

Is this death? Joshua isn’t so sure anymore. He feels as though he is floating in between both worlds. Much like he has done in the past. Barely hanging onto the warmth of life. Touching the coldness of the darkness that surrounds him. This feeling is not unfamiliar to him. He’s been here once before. Teetering.

Despite the encroaching darkness, he refuses to succumb. The comforting embrace of the Phoenix's warm feathers, symbols of renewal and healing, envelop his mind and heart like a protective cocoon. They whisper promises of rebirth, reassuring him that this is not the end, but merely a new chapter. One he must complete now.

The darkness he contains deep in his chest is locked up once again. And he will not let it escape again. Not until he finds a way to destroy it from his body once and for all.

His body is weak and burned where Garuda has left him. Black searing marks where fire once was, leaving trails of black and blue all over his torso, licking up his collarbone, his shoulders and much of his throat. This is strange for Joshua because fire does not burn him. But this fire… This fire made of darkness- had.

His eyes will flutter open, blue and tired. But with a certain sort of clarity as he grasps for breath.]

Where… are we? … Call for my brother.

[Take him to The Roost’s makeshift infirmary, won’t you?]

[🔥 b. resting and the hideaway: closed to crewmates and close cr]

[Once Joshua is treated to the best of their ability he will find himself sitting up carefully in a bed. His body is sore and aching. His skin blackened and burned in the same strange patterns as before. Like darkness surged over his skin, leaving patchy burn marks across his once smooth skin.]

Please, do not look at me like that.

[He gives a small look of disappointment. A frown. Before holding his hand out and letting Phoenix’s soft healing fire flicker over his skin. Patches of skin start to heal slowly.]

I’ve been through much worse before.

[He will heal. For he is the Phoenix. Who would ever doubt that?]

[🔥 c. back on nogard]

[After the storms- After days or weeks of bedrest- Joshua will find himself going stir-crazy as usual. He does not like to spend his time whittling away in an infirmary bed for long. Not after he’s lost so much time being confined to a bed once in his life before. Years of his life.

That is why he finds himself walking through Nogard now. His body is on the mend but he does have many bandages under his clothing. His breathing is weaker but he is breathing. And he is enjoying the breath of fresh air.

He may be on the lookout for a few notable things, as well. He visits the supply shops for a few things for ocean travel. Maps, compasses, astrolabes. And books. While Nogard might not have the most intellectual collection of books in its bookstores perhaps he’ll find something different…

Feel free to spot him. Help a man who looks like he just got off death’s door and ask why he’s out shopping. Or ask him why the hell he’s out of bed.]

[📌 d. wildcard]

[got something else? feel free to put it here. you can also find me at michrure for plotting if you need it. pm for discord if you prefer!]

» B

[tilfrosset]

[The healers will always pale in comparison to the Phoenix, but they have done the best they can in the face of everything. Between Garuda's victims and Joshua's intertwining with Ultima, they're confronted with afflictions beyond their ken, yet they still spend hours, if not days, hovering over Joshua, attempting to heal him to normal.

Though what is normal for any of the Dominants, really?

Jill, while not a healer and just a few days away from the release of her arm sling herself, is hovering too. She takes over where Clive is forced by her hand to take a break, convinced only by her promises to not take her eyes off his brother. And thus, she has sat here in a nearby chair for the last hour, watching Joshua's singed chest rise and fall, asking a million question of the healer that comes to check on him, and even to her own admission, being a right pest. But better her than Clive and his temper when it comes to Joshua. At least Jill doesn't run herself ragged on the warpath for her brother figure.]

Joshua, please.

[She places her left hand where his flesh meets the flames, knowing they will not burn her, an ultimately useless attempt to put them out. He has control over them, but yet she would still like him to consider her opinion on his condition.]

That does not mean you can overdo it. Save your energy.

little of column a, little of column b

[apothecarry]

[Not long ago, Alfyn was with Cid. It's Cid who told him you should find Joshua. The terrible combination of helplessness (to stop Cid from doing something dangerous) and worry (for his newfound friend) compel him back out into the windstorm. The destruction is ramping up all over the island.

He doesn't, himself, manage to find Joshua. What he does find are some others in trouble, and through them he arrives at the space that serves as the Roost's interim infirmary. As much as he wants to keep searching for someone he's been told is definitely injured and needs help, he can't ignore the people in front of him, either.

So he's there, later, when someone he doesn't recognize has found Joshua and brings him in. He has a grateful smile and sincere thanks for that person; after that, he's all business. The state Joshua's in...he looks bad. Worse than what Alfyn'd pictured. So he sets his jaw and rolls up his sleeves and makes himself useful - quietly, gently chatting with Joshua's unconscious self all the while.

It only surprises him a little when he looks up, in the midst of cleaning one of the burns, and a pair of intense and distant blue eyes is staring back at him.]

Hey, there. [Alfyn keeps himself quiet - nobody, least of all Joshua, needs any additional excitement right now. He stops what he's doing, and he smiles like he's telling a comforting joke.] What can I do for ya?

[He fully expects Joshua will simply drift away again. In case that doesn't happen, he'll be ready to stop any...ill-advised attempts to go somewhere.]

Sherlock Holmes | Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened (2023) | Eltrut OTA

[astudyinviolet]

Wind Elementals: No water version

[[ ooc: cw: some blood and minor injuries ]]

Put me down!! I did nothing to you!

[ Sherlock struggles as best he's able after a Wind Elemental picks him up like he's nothing. This is the third time this has happened since he's arrived in this world, and he does not like the pattern which has formed. He manages to not fall into a panic over all the leviathan activity as he did earlier. Small miracle. However, he doesn't fare much better. ]

I said to unhand me!

[ With a pencil--the best he has at the moment--he stabs it into the limb of the Wind Elemental. It lets him go. He falls, but his Trustfaller bangle cushions him before he hits the ground. He scrambles to his feet and tries to run for cover into a building. The Wind Elemental sends a wind cyclone at him and knocks him away from the entrance. It dives from the air at him and picks him up again, talons sinking into flesh. Then it takes back to the skies.

That's it. He's going to request his pistol as soon as he's able. ]

Wind Elementals: Water version | Happy Reichenbach Falls Day! 8D

[[ ooc: cw: drowning attempts (he has a Bubble Charm), panic attack/water related trauma after regaining consciousness, some blood and minor injuries. ]]

[ The Wind Elemental flies Sherlock towards the sea despite his struggles and the attempts to free him from the Wind Elemental's attention. The talons gripping his arm still bleeds. The view beneath him turns from land to the chopping waters by the shore. Hell's bells! He didn't want to test out his Bubble Charm under these circumstances. Does it work as advertised?!

Sherlock's voice is profoundly more panicked than before and somehow takes on a younger timbre. There's no fight. There's simply terror. ]

Please, stop it! Don't!

[ He falls, falls, falls. He hits the water. He doesn't know anything more.

Sherlock is afraid of water. If he falls in, he'll black out. The Bubble Charm at his neck will keep a bubble of air around Sherlock's head for two hours. The Wind Elemental shrieks in annoyance that this young man isn't properly drowning. It may pick him up and drop him again. It may try to push him further into the water. It may hover around him trying to figure out what to do when its instincts scream to fill the young man's lungs with water and end his life.

Sherlock isn't moving, isn't fighting. The Wind Elemental treats him like a cloth doll, and he's as limp as one. He's not going to survive this without help. Sherlock won't wake until he's fished out and put on dry land. ]

No Water!

[yuezun]

[A small bolt of blue struck the elemental in the leg. A brief flash of heat as intense as a bonfire and the smell of burned feathers in the aftermath just before Mycroft falls (again) are the only clue as to what harmed the creature and caused it to shriek in pain before it began to crumble into ash from the inside out.

A moment later a cloud of pitch black smoke and sparks that flew like hot coals being disturbed would cut off Mycroft's vision as he fell through it and was caught in arms still strong enough to make such a catch and break the fall before it got anywhere near dangerous for either. When the smoke cleared, Dongfang Qingcang (looking very, very unkempt and practically mortal in his exhaustion) blinked down at the man as he actually became aware of just whom he had saved. He took a deep breath, gulping it down. Then another which he exhaled in a measured manner. And then he began to float the both of them toward the ground.]

How bad are your injuries?

[His voice was quiet with the kind of effort a man on his last legs before collapse might have. But his eyes still held good focus as a shield of blue fire shimmered into existence around them to protect them on their descent.]

Dongfang Qingcang | Love Between Fairy and Devil | OTA

[yuezun]

Weathering the Storm - Tsunami Shield - Prep
As the wave grew ever closer, though slowly enough that there was some time to brace for it, Donfang teleported himself from Nogard to Eltrut's head to fulfill a promise he had made when he first arrived. At that time, he had approached each known Leviathan, introduced himself, and gave his word that should they need protection or aid of this nature, they need only call for him. None responded in a way he could fully understand, but all were at least relatively positive. Now... now Nogard has called for the aid of any who can come and has charged towards Eltrut to help stem the tide of the assault.

And Dongfang Qingcang keeps his promises.

Arriving on Eltrut's head, a small speck of a person who would normally not be noticed by anyone, even Eltrut itself, Dongfang became one of many who had made their way there to survey the literal oncoming tide and determining what the best course of action to protect as many as possible would be. Eltrut itself was already preparing a bubble shield to break the massive wave and deter its force. It would not likely not be enough to protect everyone, but... it was more than even Dongfang could do at the moment.

Turning to the nearest person, Daqiang asked, "Do we know how far God-Beast Eltrut's shield can extend? How many will not be able to be covered by it and where the weaknesses lie?"

Weathering the Storm - Tsunami Shield - Any Time During
After determining what could be determined, Daqiang came to the conclusion that without access to his own control over lightning, he would better fulfill his promise of aid by granting his own power to Eltrut and supplementing the God-Beast's own sea of qi. While it was certain that the God-Beast had far more power than Daqiang currently had access to, any boosts, particularly of the strength that an immortal like himself could provide, would aid Eltrut in extending the bubble shield, or holding it longer. Or perhaps, even providing smaller ones in areas that might still be damaged by the earthquake that would occur on impact.

It would not be a simple matter of just shoving his power into Eltrut all at once. It would have to be a sustained effort beginning at least a half hour prior to the wave crashing over them and lasting through the duration - however long that might be with a tidal surge that large.

Dongfang folded himself into the lotus position on the ledge of the shell, behind Eltrut's head and neck, that the native caretakers had a gathering hall of some sort. Dongfang was not certain of it's use - if they met there to communicate with Eltrut or it was simply a place to ensure an organized care effort - but it served as a known point of contact for anyone seeking out council with them or wishing to turn in quests the caretakers sometimes posted on the Manta Board. As such, it was certain to not be in the way as well as a place Dongfang could easily be found and contacted should an emergency arrived. He'd already informed the caretakers of his purpose. All that remained was to start.

By the time the wave hit, Daqiang had sat for half an hour, eyes glowing blue with hellfire and a matching blue aura surrounding him that sunk steadily into Eltrut's shell around him. Even as the force of the wave pushed the God-Beast around, he remained steady. He even had the focus and ability to lash an arm out sideways and catch someone who was unfortunately unable to keep their footing in the latest surge and buckle of the 'land' to prevent them from sliding down and off the 'shelf' of the shell. Another shield - blue and entirely Daqiang's own, flared into life at the edge of the shell to catch others he could not so easily retrieve with his own hands.

Weathering the Storm - Tsunami Shield - After
Once the Tsunami had passed and the remaining threats were the frothing seas, the storming winds, and treacherous avian bombardment, Daqiang gave what he could of his energy to Eltrut to help fuel smaller bubble shields around the main port and cities and then headed 'inland' to help where he could while Garuda had her chaotic fun in the clouds. She was a threat he could not handle alone. It grated on him, his lack of power, but he would find other ways to fulfill his promise with what he had left.

Those who know him enough to notice, might realize that his appearance is entirely disheveled at this point. His hair, which is usually never out of place, is wild-swept and wild and nearly tangled as it hangs over his shoulders in a wide cloak rather than neatly straight down his back. His shoulders are slumped where usually he stands with them back and chin high, walking as if he owned place. Now he simply moves through the crowd, barely reacting when he's bumped into - everyone is moving as fast as they can and often as carefully as they can - while he sometimes casts shields of blue fire over head to prevent avian attacks from carrying through or perhaps... stops to help someone who fell stand up before they can get trampled by the crowd?

tsuanmi shield

[vermilloci]

"Moon Supreme...?"

A blink, a double-take. She recognizes the robes, both the cut and the style, but it takes an extra moment to reconcile their luxury with the disheveled state of the man wearing them, walking through the frenzied crowd.

She'd been crouching over a... person who is now among the victims from the murderous birdkin, freshly deceased. Rem's hand leaves the absent pulse on their wrist, allowing the limb to fall limp to their side as she stands and walks after Dongfang.

"Moon Surpreme!" She calls to him. While her voice is hoarse, she hasn't expended as nearly as much energy as he, and he doesn't quite look well.

Alfyn | Octopath Traveler | the Roost & Eltrut

[apothecarry]

a. in the chaos of the storm (hideaway crew & others @ the roost)

["Bustling" is never an encouraging word to describe the activity in an infirmary - yet bustling it is, between the people arriving injured and the people half-scrambling to see to their injuries (and, probably, convince them to rest instead of leave).

Alfyn spent a fair amount of time seeing to Joshua after he arrived, but now he finds himself with empty hands and a bit of time. The storm doesn't seem to be letting up, either. He puts the worst of his thoughts aside and starts making his way around the infirmary.]

Hey there. [He has a gentle demeanor and a kind voice, and will sit to speak with anyone also sitting, or lying down.] Name's Alfyn. I'm an apothecary. [One of the first things he realized here is that most people can't tell from what he's wearing.] What can I do for you?

[This isn't just for the injured! Those who are looking after their friends should also have a little attention, or their questions answered, or a cup of water if they want one.]

b. a peaceful moment at the Roost (hideaway crew & anyone who might have come to help)

[It's been such a long day.

A long few days, rather, with only brief windows of reprieve for Alfyn to scoot himself aside and take a nap somewhere relatively quiet.

It's evening, and he's outside. In front of him is a bowl full of water. Alfyn sticks his hands in the bowl, leaning over it, and splashes that water on his face - and yelps, as softly as one can while still calling it yelping.]

Cold!

[But the cold will help. He lets the water run over his face a few more times, ultimately shaking his head pretty hard to rid himself of excess water and then sitting right back down on the nearest suitable surface for sitting. Crate? Rock? Doesn't matter to him. Alfyn is exhausted.

But one tired fellow does not stop the passage of time. Alfyn rolls his shoulders and gets back to what he originally came out here to do. There's a bucket of water at his feet; between that, some soap, and what elbow grease remains in him, he thinks he can get all the stains out of his green overcoat just fine. Time to roll up his sleeves and get started.]

c. a drink back on Eltrut (open for anyone!)

[When most of the danger seems to have passed, Alfyn finally makes his way back to the big turtle. He stops by the potion shop, because he's clean out of supplies. (The actual harpy shop owner gives him pause just for a second.) It's clear the leviathan here also faced the wrath of the storm. Some of the damage makes Alfyn flinch to look at. There are many people already working to put things together again, at least.

He wouldn't be away from his responsibilities if he didn't think things were going to be okay without him. And he's only dragging his feet a little as he finally comes to the true purpose for his trip to Eltrut:

A tall, cold, refreshing drink at the tavern.

There's nothing at all in the world quite like knocking one back at the end of the day. Alfyn settles in, choosing a stool rather than his preference of a table. If he sat somewhere it was easy to rest his head, he'd start sawing logs. When someone takes the seat beside him, he lifts his mug and smiles a tired smile.]

Get yourself somethin'. My treat.

[No. No, it doesn't matter if he knows the person sat there or not.]

d. wildcard!

[If you'd like a thing and you don't see it here, hit me up!]

a!!

[gruffier]

[ Like a leech attached to skin, Clive has barely stepped a single foot away from Joshua since the moment he was taken into the clinic... and unfortunately has been a bit unbearable ever since.

Above all the desperate pleas and shouts for aid, the man had eventually calmed down enough to allow those in the infirmary to do their jobs. Which, ultimately, leaves Clive feeling all the more useless. So you can only imagine the moment Alfyn finally approaches and speaks up to him. ]

Nothing. [ He partially snaps at Alfyn. The response leaves his mouth before the thought could be processed. Yet once a small amount of reality returns to him, Clive's already stiff muscles will begin to soften momentarily. ]

I apologize, I— [ He attempts to gather his words, all while wild eyes refuse to turn away from the boy lying on the bed beside him. ] —will he be alright?

G'raha Tia | FFXIV

[afflatusexarch]

💎 Escaping the Nest

[ Well attempting to speak to to Benedikta to try to bring her out of this certainly hadn't succeeded. He's not sure if he really expected it to, truthfully. However he had needed to try. The Warden of Wind and the Lady of the Vortex are similar in structure and ability, but there is a stark contrast between the two: Benedikta is a person and the Garuda of his star is a construct created by prayer and worship. The two cannot be rightfully compared to one another.

Which is likely how he has ended up kidnapped and now trying to return to the shoreline. G'raha isn't sure what island that they have landed on, but there has to be the means to flee. And there are others that have been taken and thus G'raha feels some responsibility to help them escape as well.

Passing ships will see that G'raha is casting magicks into the skies to try to get their attention. Everything from a Fire, Flare, or some sort of Holy or non-elemental flash. It will likely near exhaust himself but...

Someone has to be able to see, yes? ]

💎 Collecting and Repelling

[ One of the first things that G'raha notices upon returning to the leviathans is that the birds are giving him a rather wide berth. His ears wiggle and there's a smirk that appears on his features. His presence alone seems to unnerve the creatures that have been warped by Garuda's magicks. Thus does he turn to any companions. ]

Stay close. I have an idea so that we might help others.

[ And thus will he literally leap into action, despite how he is dressed, with staff in hand and chasing away any feathered friends that draw near. ]

Look for and take as many of Garuda's plumes as we can find.

[ Since he has every intention of distributing them. G'raha will be a shield for any who wish to help in this endeavor. ]

💎 Taking a Breather?

[ Seeing Ramuh join the fray and chasing Garuda off leaves G'raha uncertain. He hopes that things can be worked out and that no one truly holds this against his friend. Chances are that there will be quite the amount of work that will need to be done to alleviate the concerns and fears of everyone else.

But first, G'raha desperately needs a break, not that he is going to take one. Between the kidnapping, the escape, and doing what he can to provide support and aid... G'raha hasn't actually tended to himself. There are cuts and scrapes and a tiredness in his eyes. Yet he is walking from one person to the next, attempting to provide healing to anyone that should need it.

Perhaps... Someone needs to stop him before he collapses on his feet. ]

💎 Wildcard

[ You know what to do. ;) ]

escaping the nests 🦆

[activatingcombatmode]

[Zack is ... badly injured. After his own solo endeavour in Garuda Extreme (where he forgot to turn off level sync) he was picked up by his crew to heal up. But he knows people are still out there. He knows that G'raha is still out there with his own crew.

Or so he thought. When he sees the flash of magic in the sky his eyes widen in fear. That particular combination of magic looks like...]

Raha.

[He's not hesitating. Getting his ship closer to the large feathery nests is all it takes. Zack is jumping off the ship and landing on the ground to climb. Despite one arm behind being incapacitated due to a broken shoulder.]

Raha! Can you hear me?!

clive rosfield | ffxvi | corsair

[gruffier]

I. The Roost. (hideaway/close cr/others)

[ ( A ) The infirmary back in the old Hideaway was a place he had frequented quite often. Whether it was for himself, others, or helping Tarja gather herbs or tonics for her patients. It was a place for healing, comfort... but today? It was a place Clive wished he never had to step foot into.

Drenched from head to toe due to the onslaught of weather from the outside, the man looked as horrible on the outside as he did on the inside.

He seems to be hovering over the body of one such patient, dried tears clinging to the sides of his cheeks. His attention is focused solely in one direction, but maybe giving him a hand would help? Or at least tell him to dry off! ]

How... how could this have happened—

[ ( B ) However, the gryphons cries from the outside were enough to temporarily drag Clive back into a small sense of reality, and after he was (almost literally) forced to take a break from watching over his brother, he saw fit to aid in whatever skirmish was happening on the outside.

So now the man has found himself not only fighting against the fierce winds but three female gryphon who had begun to swarm around a single male. They seem to be keeping a bit of a distance due to Clive already unsheathed sword, but the snapping of talons and claws were slowly getting closer. ]

Keep your distance! Those claws aren't merely for show.

II. The Aftermath - Back on Eltrut.

[ It had been a few days since the passing of the storm, yet the aftereffects still lingered heavily in the air. It was a like a large weight had been pressed against Clive's chest— from the revival of an Eikon, to Joshua's injuries, to Ultima. The past surely had a way to creep back from the hole Clive had so desperately tried to bury. And now that everything had begun to unearth itself, a strange storm had darken Clive's demeanor. Though his face be scarred and physique less than approachable, his peaceful presence he would normally pose to present himself had all but been replaced with frantic glances and quiet scowls.

He looked more desperate, scared, and easily irritable. If the prominent bags that lied underneath his eyes were not enough of an indication, then perhaps causing a bit of a scene in the middle of the marketplace would give off a few warnings. ]

Fuck! [ The man hissed under his breath as he forcefully slams down another book from a disorganized pile. The shopkeeper flinches back, but busies themself with other customers who have since left a fair bit of distance between themselves and Clive.

Maybe try to stop him from disrupting the other customers, save the store owner, or perhaps find him a bit away as he desperately begins to stop at another store front? He may even run into you and not even notice. The passerby's seem to give worried glances, but don't dare approach... ]

III. Wildcard.

[ Something else you'd like to do instead!? Hit me up here, or we can plot more things out over at BittyPipsqueak! ]

II

[empyrean_mirror]

Clive.

[This...was not what he'd expected when he'd stepped out for some groceries. But it's not like Kaveh can ignore it. He looks terrible, haggard and clearly not sleeping, but even so, he gently reaches out to tap the man's shoulder.]

Tell me what you're looking for.

Izuku Midoriya | My Hero Academia | Paladin

[fullgauntlet]

[closed to the Plus Ultra crew. There ship is the Mighty Explosion God Ship Bomb!!]

[The storms start quickly but the reports of damage and creatures running and flying about come in even quicker. Izuku is one of the first to be up on deck to see the whirl of storms happening so close to Eltrut. The swirling angry winds and the rain whip at his face. And he stares out at the storm with a frown. They have to help people. They have to stop this or at least slow it down!

The Plus Ultra can do two things:

1. Fight Chirada and Suparna that are hunting in the skies. Chirada will swoop down close to the ship and sweep dangerously across it. Fight her on deck. Or, if able, take to the sky and fight Suparna in an attempt to stop her from getting down to Eltrut's shores. Either way, the two sisters will be tethered to each other to boost their damage overall.

2. Help rescue people who have been caught in the storms. More than likely in the water where they need to be fished out before they drown. They can be rescued to their ship's deck and tended to by some basic medical care for now. Both NPC or player characters can be rescued.]

[seasaltkeys]

[Roxas has been in enough fights to know that when the sky gets dark like this, it's never a good sign. The last time he saw this happen, Xehanort was behind it. And while he's pretty sure this isn't Xehanort, well, the fear is stil there.

But he's up on the deck, wind whipping around him and keyblades appearing in a flash. It's not the best fighting conditions, and it's times like this that make him still wish he had his coat. But you deal with what you have to.]

What are we facing?

Dehya | Genshin Impact | Corsair

[legendofthelion]

[Weathering the Storms - Elrut]

[It's more water than sand, but when the weather takes a turn for the worst--the first thing to do is get out of it. on the tail end of the storm approaching, Dehya earnestly ushers people to shelter, pulling them to nearby businesses.] Don't worry about your stuff, just get inside!


[She herself squeezes into one of the bars mere seconds before the tsunami reaches shore. When it hits the bar and shakes everything, Dehya staggers and grabs for the pillar for support.] Whoa!

[Her hand outstretches to try and catch the person beside her before they go toppling as well.]

[Birds of a Feather - Kidnapped]

[Dehya is not at the advantage for aerial warfare, and eventually one of the Eigis sister's manage to overcome here, knocking her blade away before grappling her in claws and carrying her away.

She attempts to give chase once she's deposited with the other women (?), but the there beasts and the long fall keep her from getting far.

So, she's... here. Looking extremely put out, pacing the area, and searching for an opportunity to escape. Lets out a frustrated growl and kicks part of the nest.

And then remembers she's not in here alone. She looks over sheepishly.] Uh... hey, they didn't hurt you too bad?

[Wildcard]

((Reach me by PM, game discord, or monochromic for anything else!))

b - invokes the timey wimey ball

[empyrean_mirror]

...Hello, Dehya.

[Kaveh's just here. Whether or not alhaitham is unconscious somewhere in the nest with them is something one will ignore figuring out while the timeywimey is active, okay? But Kaveh's largely unhurt. And very tired.]

I'm fine, somehow.

Ranma Saotome | Ranma 1/2 | Corsair

[catsgothistongue]

💧 BIRD IS THE WORD (On Land)💧

[There really can't be a dull day here, can there? The bright, blue skies suffused to a gloomy, dark blanket of clouds. The winds began picking up at alarming rates, whistling loudly as they threatened to blow everything not bolstered down into the air. The leviathans and its inhabitants are on high alert, something he hadn't seen since the last battle with Krahs. It was pure pandemonium, unforgivably disrupting the peace.

And yet against the orders of staying inside for safety, Ranma was outside, fighting against the harsh elements. He might not be a Paladin, but he's a martial artist dammit! Like hell was he going to sit around a doomed house letting people get swooped up. He's still barely got a clue what the hell's happening — he was sleeping just thirty minutes ago — and has no idea if this is just a bad storm or another leviathan attack or what, but off-the-cuff is usually how he handles these things anyway.]

Get down!

[Kicking off the ground, using his training to stop himself from being sucked up by the raging gale, he tackled the first person down he saw to the ground before they get smacked by an uprooted tree.]

💧 Wind Elementals 💧

[Why.

The fuck.

Is it always birds?

Ever since his venture on Mount Phoenix, birds and him haven't gotten along well. At the least, they seem to want to kill him more often. Case in point-]

Let me go before I make ya' into pillow stuffing!

[The two harpies that've gotten Ranma, one taking one arm each, dragging him over to the nearest body of water. He kicked and struggled, but no matter what he did, they brushed it off like a minor annoyance. Their talons digging into his arm's flesh, they get him to the shore and in the middle of him cursing them out, dunked his upper body in the water. They expected him to drown like many of the other men they caught...

... Then they felt the arms they gripped onto start to slender and thin down to a petite size. That got them to pause, and almost cautiously, lift their victim out of the water... to find a new, red-headed face staring back at them, hacking up water. A look that could only be described as gobsmacked crossed their faces because huh?Where did that male go? Why is there a girl here? So many questions!!!!

Ranma still struggled to get out of their grip while the arithmetic floated in front of their faces. If anyone would like to use this opportunity to save a redhead from some birbs, now would be the time!]

💧 In the Nest 💧

[She is so confused right now. One minute, they were trying to drown him. The next, they swooped her up and took to the skies. Where did this wishy-washy attitude come from?! Ranma didn't have time to ponder that when she's dropped in a giant nest on a whole other plane she isn't familiar with. Beats getting drowned, that's for sure...

Though 'jump out of the nest and swim back to the main land' will need to take a rain check. Cause that's a lot of murder birbs roaming around. Fun. Ranma stretched her arms and wrung out her soaking wet clothes and hair, before looking over at whoever else was unfortunate enough to get brought here.]

So... Get kidnapped by angry bird people often?

[Excellent conversation starter.]

💧 Wildcard! 💧
[Got something else in mind that you desire? Lay it on me! You can find me on discord or this account to plot things out!]

In the Nest

[legendofthelion]

[Dehya has been circling the nest for a minute, contemplating escape options. She notices, when this girl is dropped off that she... really looks like Ranma. But she's met Ranma, so that can't be him. Probably.]

Nah. Don't really want to make it a habit, either. [She peeks up at the circling beasts before turning back to Ranma.] They didn't hurt you dragging you up here, did they?

Miriam | Bloodstained: RotN | Paladin

[crystalrepose]

[I. Weathering the Storms (Eltrut, Docks) ]

[If it wasn't crashing waves, it was tree-shattering winds, if it wasn't either of those—it was monsters.

Flying sharks were unpleasantly new, though.

Miriam was outside again as soon as she could keep her footing for more than a few moments. The downed trees and rubble strewn streets made getting around a bit of a chore, though. Good thing she could jump higher than most, prismatic plumes streaming from her shoulders.]

[a.]—[Rescuing a mer from a (fallen, at least) tree was also not on Miriam's list of expected things to deal with today. But she wasn't just going to ignore someone's shrieks of panic, or the pack of airborne sharks harassing the stranded merfolk. The Shardbinder had leapt up, high up, and dropped into the midst of them, crushing one shark under her boots and scattering the others. But before she could draw her sword, the mer grabbed right onto her apparent rescuer's arm with a white-knuckled grasp. Miriam staggered a bit to keep her balance, and the remaining three sharks seized the opportunity to close the distance. One chomped at her while it circled, something Miriam ducked to avoid—which just made her teeter more precariously.

Exasperated, she shouted for whoever was nearest:]

Could you get these things off my back, please?!

[She had to deal with a terrified mer clinging to her arm for dear life first. Miriam was strong, but not "bicep curl a whole-ass mermaid" strong.]

[b.]—[Perhaps you were one of the unfortunates snatched by an egis—though, fortunately, Miriam was in range to do something about it. Maybe. Hopefully.]

Put them down—! [She shouted, though Miriam rather doubted the elemental was going to listen. They were rather impolite. The Shardbinder leapt up to a taller rooftop to gain height before the creature could climb too high, and arrowlike bolts leapt from her hand towards the elemental. It swerved—but the arrows followed, and in its erratic serving to escape it crashed into a different rooftop, scrabbling at the tiles. A brief, glancing landing, but a chance all the same]

[Wildcard]
[For other things! Miriam's plotting post is here.

As a note, at some point while fighting a wind elemental Miriam will absorb a Shard from it, a dramatic and painful looking process that won't actually harm her except for the lingering existential threat of knowing her curse is going to kill her one day. It's not guaranteed to happen and if you'd rather not deal witnessing magical stabs let me know!]

Mid Telamon | Corsair | OTA!

[midifications]

The Roost

[The sudden storm had set Mid on edge; and though she retreated inside, the area she retreated to was not safe, it turned out. The door to the room she had found herself in blew open, and the force of the wind was enough to knock plenty of the structures down inside— including on to Mid herself. Luckily, most were wooden and some were books, but once she was down, head was covered and it was over... well, after what felt like forever, but soon enough.

Once she pulled herself out of everything, she did a once-over on herself, noting that one of her sides hurt— most likely something bruised or cracked, and some scrapes and little cuts. Nothing... bad? But a sudden screech gets her attention, and she makes her way out of the room and toward the sound, where the gryphons are going absolutely bonkers.]

Greagor's tits—

[One of the males goes flying over her head, followed closely by one of the females.]

Ah shit, I ain't built for this!

Eltrut's Seas

[Knowing now what the hells hit the island, she knows she can't do much beyond piloting a ship, even in stormy seas, and that's just what she'll do to take refugees elsewhere, or just to safety, but so far it's been smooth (heh) sailing. Much her father's daughter, she'll be barking orders as she steers the ship to anyone on board, whether from Eltrut or saved from the waves.]

If ye can use some steel or fight off some sharks with ye bare hands, now's the time! 'ey! Grab that rope and get it tied down, we aren't going to lose a mast or sail to this damned wind! Get a move on!

[Just... make sure you stop the swarm of angry flying fish from taking her out!]

Windy Nests

[Once the Enterprise was docked at Eltrut, Mid made her way out to help others there. However, it was probably a mistake as it made her a prime target for some of the wind elementals. Though she did her best to try to escape them, she was finally taken away, but don't think she just gave up; on the elemental's approach to one of the nests, whoever is there may hear shouting as she approaches.]

Godsdamnit put me down you aether-filled balloon bird shite! I don't want to go wherever you're takin' me!

[Among other colourful things. Once she's close enough to a nest though, she will be unceremoniously dropped into the nest, which will get her to groan in pain from her previous injuries at the Roost, holding her injured side.]

Damn aether shites... gonna make somethin' to disperse all of you... ugh...

[After she's done complaining through gritted teeth, she'll take a look around to see who else may be stuck with her.]

Wildcard

Mid will also be on Eltrut prior to being taken by a Wind Elemental, running around quite a bit and trying to herd and help those who can't really help themselves, or if you want to plan something, you can hit me up in the Esco discord or on plurk @ infel!

wildcard > three days after garuda

[ramuhs]

[While he may have gone after Benedikta the moment he woke up, as soon as he returned later that morning he thinks of Mid and how much she must be worried. Was she even here in the Roost? Or was she busying herself elsewhere? So after allowing himself a moment, he sends her a message via shellphone.]

Now where is my darling daughter to help take care of her old man, hm?

Cidolfus Telamon | Final Fantasy XVI | Corsair | situational

[ramuhs]

[A "follow up" catchall for those who want to check in on Cid after the events of Garuda, and he will be staying on the crew's island, the Roost. He won't really be "available" until a few days after the attack, spending the first three days asleep before going after Benedikta right after awakening. He'll have returned the same afternoon without her and be notably a bit...forlorn distracted, but will cheer up a little after a few more days and be more amenable to visits. Those who ask for Benedikta's whereabouts will be told "she needs some time" and "he's working on it." Further discussion can be threaded.

In the meanwhile, he'll be forced to heal and recover (again) in the building that's been claimed as his in the underground caves, so those who wish to visit him will find him there. His little residence will be a mess of books and papers as an indicator of him definitely not sitting around idle. He sustained a critical side injury and depleted his aether, so his mobility and stamina is a bit hampered—not that that will stop him. Not only will he "sneak out" because he wants fresh air every now and then, he's already working on various projects that will span the entire rest of the month as he heals and until Benedikta returns.

Thread timeline will be roughly from about a week after Garuda events until end of the month.]

⚡ i. garuda vs. ramuh cover story

[One thing that he'll be quick to try and work on is spread "information" about the appearance of their Eikons. Fortunately, although some people may know they are "Dominants" and "Eikons", no one outside of their cast has actually ever seen them fully primed. Some might have recognized Cid's voice when he was Ramuh, but with all that wind and storm it could have been missed. But he's less worried about himself and more about Benedikta. So first order of business to make sure no one goes around spreading their names. Second is to spread some half-truths and false stories about the Eikons to send people looking into Garuda on a wild goose chase. So some may see him sitting outside, perhaps even out on the grassy field not too far from the main underground cavern entrance, musing and spinning a pen around his fingers.]

Hm...perhaps we can call them "legendary beasts"... Or should I spin the materia in this, suggesting they are creatures summoned by ancient relics?

[He has a lot of ideas, that's for certain. And he's not above casting suspicion onto other people if it would help save their skin.]

⚡ ii. a little walk and flower gathering

[Should he be walking right now? Probably not, even if this particular scenario is set further in the month when he's at least allowed to walk around more and can do so without feeling like he might pull his stitches out. But he'll be taking a small stroll around the main area outside, looking to see how repair efforts are going. On the one hand, at least most of the facilities were in the cavern so they didn't suffer any structural damage. But there is a lot of debris that still needs clearing out, not to mention the gryphons... So he'll be checking around a bit, only stopping when he reaches some flower fields that were unharmed.

So every so often when he goes out, he'll stop and pick out a few wildflowers to bring back with him. Those who visit his residence will notice these flowers gathered in a vase, some cut as if he's trying to make something...]

⚡ iii. general visits + wildcard

[For those who just want to drop by to see him at any time during the month. Those who can't visit him physically but wish to message can use this for shellphone calls or messages, too! The only thing I would like to avoid discussing the reason for Benedikta's rampage, if only because we still have plans to do an official crew-wide discussion. So if any talks could assume that those points have been covered, that would be appreciated! Of course anyone can still ask Cid for his personal involvement in these particular follow up threads. He's also looking into things regarding the cast's curse and predicament, but I'm holding off full research related stuff until June when he's in better condition. But if anyone would like to go ahead and address it, that's fine, too!

For anything else, feel free to hit me up on discord or laenavesse]

ii. flower gathering

[empyrean_mirror]

[Kaveh does not often leave Alhaitham's side, in those early days, but he does bring him to the roost, sets him to rest and wait while Kaveh checks on the work yet left unfinished, to assess the repairs needed and what will be delayed--and what will be expedited in light of what's happened.

Walking up to those flower fields is really more for his peace of mind than anything else. Honestly, he hadn't come up here after Cid at all, just...for something else. And yet...]

...Cid.

[What good will nagging him do now?

Kaveh's tired.]

Darin Altway | Open to All

[forgeabettertomorrow]

-RESCUE- Closed to Zelda
[Much to Darin's dismay, his battle with Garuda could be seen in the skies above and outside of Eltrut. He'd managed to lure Garuda away temporarily and any eagle-eyed person on the ground could probably spot a normal, blue-haired man striking devastating blows against Gaurda while airborne.]

[Once Garuda had flown them out to sea, things got trickier and anyone following the fight could see the explosive splash followed by whirling tornadoes and water spouts brought forth by the eikon. Garuda had left to wreak more havoc but the blue-haired man wasn't pursuing. Odds are, it meant the worst.]

[He'd be found later, floating face up near the shore. Unconscious and severely wounded, he might survive if he gets fished out.]

-AFTERMATH-
[After the attack, Darin can be found bandaged up and trying his best to help clean up despite likely protests from anyone with eyes enough to see how injured he is.]

[Regardless, he keeps sneaking away to help clean up when he can.]

a very unfortunate rescue

[multidisciplinary]

[ Only a couple weeks have passed since Zelda arrived when the storm hits Eltrut. And it is like no storm the princess has ever seen before. She, along with several other terrified bystanders, is caught completely unawares by the harpy's rage and happens to be outside when the storm hits. They very nearly end up crushed when the wind throws a fully grown tree at them--

--except that, all of the sudden, a strange man catches it with his bare hands and saves the group from certain death.

Zelda is frozen on the spot, awestruck by the display of strength she's never seen from anyone but Daruk and Yunobo.

If someone hadn't grabbed her by the arm and dragged her inside the shop, she surely would have been snatched by Chirada and Suparna when they swooped out of the sky.

Even though she's pulled into the safety of the shop, Zelda doesn't hide under the furniture like everyone else. Instead, she crawls over to a broken window and peaks up over the frame, watching in horror the scene that unfolds outside. As soon as the harpies grab the strange man and soar away, Zelda leaps up and rushes outside, as if to follow after them. Of course, they outstrip her immediately and the princess is left watching their battle continuing in the distance out on the open water. She can barely make out what's happening, but eventually she sees the three harpies fly away, the strange man nowhere to be seen.

A cold feeling of dread drops in Zelda's stomach like a block of ice. Without a second thought to the potential danger, she hurries to make her way to the shoreline closest to where the battle took place. If she's lucky, harpies didn't finish him off and simply left him on the shore to die. The chance is slim, but she has to take it.

Her luck(?) holds-- the strange man is there in the water, having drifted not too far from where the harpies must have left him. Zelda hurries down the beach and into the surf, not even bothering to remove her shoes first. He's too far out for her to safely swim to, but if she were to use her power over time.... It's a gamble; Zelda has never tried to Recall a living being (even though it was this power that transported her to the distant past in the first place). But she can't afford not to try.

Zelda extends both arms in front of her. A small -thunk- sounds from nowhere in particular. Waves of gold and grey magic ripple over the strange man until they take hold of him. Zelda sighs in relief as a clock begins to tick back the seconds--

--except instead of pulling the man back to shore, Recall pushes him further out to sea. ]

Wait! Wait, stop!!

[ In a panic, Zelda wades further into the water, momentarily forgetting that she can just end the spell and stop this before he gets too far away.

Off Darin drifts, slowly rewinding his way backwards out into the open ocean. ]

< LOCKED TO CREW: A Much Needed Explanation >

[ramuhs]

(backdated to within a week after Garuda's attack; some FFXVI plot spoilers in the cuts)

Once both Cid and Joshua have recovered enough, they will gather all members of the Hideaway to assemble at the Roost in one of the larger buildings that was large enough to house everyone. Although the two still look a little worse for wear, the gravity of the situation means they can't delay the truth from everyone for too long. Thus begins a lengthy explanation split between the two of them.

Matter of Benedikta.

Everyone will be informed that she is all right but recovering away for now. They won't go into specific details about how she's involved in what they are about to explain—that is Benedikta's story to tell and only if she wants to. As for why she went off the way she did and how… Well, that's where the next part comes in.

Curse of the Dominants.

Except for Mid, everyone from their world here are what are known as Dominants, people "blessed" to be vessels of Eikons. These Eikons are powerful entities that only a select few have the power of calling upon to use their powers, and can transform into them. Cid and Benedikta have shown that, with Benedikta as Garuda, the harpy that attacked Eltrut and Nogard, and Cid as Ramuh. For full transparency, the rest will reveal who their Eikons are: Joshua as the Phoenix, Clive as Ifrit, Jill as Shiva, and Dion as Bahamut. Cid will further explain that they actually haven't been able to prime—transform into their Eikons—in this world before now, nor do they actually want to.

And that is because of their aether. In their world, aether is the source of magic and part of every living being, including the earth. Normally humans can't wield magic without using a crystal, but there are those like them who can wield it freely. However, there is a cost, and that takes the form of a curse. It's a slow one, but the overuse of aether is taxing on the human body, and the body will slowly turn to stone.

Now, as for the culprit of all this, is Ultima.

Our Unwanted "Guest.".

Ultima, a mysterious, god-like being who manipulates events across their home world Valisthea, instigating conflicts between the various nations of the land and pitting their Dominants against each other. While it is still unclear why Ultima wishes to instigate such heavy conflict there is one certain thing. Ultima wishes to simply destroy everything.

Joshua will explain that Benedikta’s transformation was a result of that dark entity being held captive inside of Joshua reaching her. He, as the Phoenix, has been harbouring a piece of Ultima inside of his body for some time now. He is currently imprisoned in a cage of flame that he sealed away in his own heart. He originally did this to protect his brother, Clive, from being taken by the god as a vessel himself.

And now it seems as though Joshua is slowly losing his tight grip on the entity. Ultima was able to escape his cage, only for a moment, to instill chaos in Benedikta’s heart.

Joshua fears he will not be able to continue to hold Ultima forever. That is why he is hoping to find a way to destroy Ultima. With the help of the crew. For good.

Path Forward.

After all this, it will be made known that the group have been searching for ways to deal with their curse as well as how to get rid of Ultima, preferably without harming Joshua and permanently. But of course, they haven't had much luck so far, so while they don't want to make it everyone's problem, they would be grateful to anyone who may want to help.

The floor will then be open for any questions, clarifications, and anything else that someone may wish to bring up.

[historiology]

[Sorey listens, already aware of some of this from his discussions with Cid previously. But some of this is new, or at least things he hadn't been aware of or had confirmed, only maybe guessed at before now. He's quiet at first as he lets them explain, lets them demonstrate the Eikon abilities.]

I've spoken to Cid about this a little. Um, the Eikons. It is almost kind of similar to back home, me working with the seraphim, sort of. I'm not sure if there is a way to transfer this Ultima? Maybe into something here? Something more secure than a person? Obviously, if this has been impacting Joshua, we have to figure some alternative. A new vessel, something else instead....? I know you've already been trying to figure a solution, and maybe I don't know all the details but. I want to try help too. If I can.