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Post by therunawaygirl on Jul 9, 2021 14:54:42 GMT -5
Sitting by nowhere else other than one of the wooden railings meant to act as boundaries between the ship and the sky was Lamont, his lance at the ready as he maintained perfect balance with little to no effort, doing a similar thing to Kujo unknowingly —something that didn’t escape Reena’s eyes. Upon spotting him, she flinched, to then quickly chastise him for it.
She really did look scared, unlike the Elezen. A false step would guarantee him a one-way ticket down, with no return from wherever that travel led him to.
“Lamont, get down there! We’re too high up!” “Come on, now… You’ve seen me do this countless times by now, Reena…” Lamont sighed, “But, if you insist…”
While Lamont stood up and jumped back to the bridge of the ship, M’Lyn glanced over to the two engineers piloting the ship with uncanny professionalism, keeping rather quiet despite their loud introduction. She had never seen them before, yet the name “Garlond Ironworks” did in fact ring a bell —a long-forgotten one at that. She’d known the name because they also made armor for Adventurers, although the Miqo’te had only seen them, yet never worn them.
There was something comforting about the clothes she currently wore, after all —they were made to allow swift and unpredictable movements. Movements she was more than used to by that point.
With all of that said, there had been a name that had caught her attention by a lot. Although M’Lyn had stated to just be looking for Y’shtola, there was another name Wedge mentioned, that could help them just as much. While her relation with said individual wasn’t exactly well-developed, having met only 3 times total, she knew who they were purely by their outstanding reputation.
Much like her reputation as Adventurer and “Primal Slayer”, but that’s besides the point.
“Not once did you mention Alphinaud in all of this —so why is he suddenly being brought into question now?” M’Lyn added, looking at Lamont. “Truthfully, I thought he was busy in Coerthas” the Elezen shrugged, “I did not think he’d be back in Mor Dhona so quickly.” “…I guess I’ll refrain from asking what he was doing in Coerthas, of all places…” “In any case, isn’t this better for you?” Reena mentioned, thinking aloud, “After all, you’d have not only Y’shtola lending you a hand, but Alphinaud as well. It’s a much better reward.” “As if that child will allow me to ask him without a bother” the Miqo’te sighed, “He’ll most likely question where in Heavens have I been thus far…” “And we’re here.”
Bringing the attention back to the trip, the loud voice of the Roegadyn echoed through the air, announcing their arrival. They were still high up, yet they could all make up the intricate crystal plains and towering crests of Mor Dhona, sparkling dimly against the sunlight. Splashed here and there were spots of dead earth, and, most certainly, large monsters ready for the prowl —yet the Enterprise soared so high up, it was impossible for any to try and attack it. The airship only began to land as they nearest a settlement, with a large Aetheryte at its main plaza, between tall and sturdy-looking brick walls meant to act as a first line of defense for the monsters prowling the surroundings areas.
The airship landed inside what seemed to be a garage, although Reena and Lamont were quick to lead the way out into the main plaza, leaving Biggs and Wedge inside to reparations or whatever else they had been up to. Outside in the plaza, seasoned-looking warriors walked back and forth, some using the Aetheryte while others headed into the perilous outskirts. Unlike the ones in Limsa or Ul’dah, all of the Adventurers in Mor Dhona seemed more than capable of handling a horde of monsters and calling it “a day’s work”.
“So… I ask that you don’t mind the first door we cross” Reena advised —words that caught M’Lyn’s attention, “I assure you, we’re headed exactly where you want to go.” “…And why did you feel the need of mentioning that?” M’Lyn asked, amused. “Well… I already caught your dislike towards the Adventurer’s Guild in Limsa… While Mor Dhona doesn’t really have an official Guild, they do have a bar… And that’s where we’re heading —or, rather, past it.” “If anything, that warning should go to Kujo —not me.”
With the comment out of the way, M’Lyn approached the Aetheryte at the center, attuning immediately in a new location to her —and waited for Kujo to do the same, before following both Viera and Elezen into yet another tavern. This one, however, was much smaller than the previous ones, and much less crowded, something Reena looked at with a hint of concern in her eyes —enough concern to voice it aloud, although Lamont was quick to dismiss it, mentioning how there were plenty of monsters outside for Adventurers to dwindle in idle chit-chat.
“Says the one who got to drinking the first thing during our stay in Limsa!” Reena reprimanded him severely, her anger evident with her ears slightly tilting backwards. “Good to see she brought that up…” M'Lyn said with a faint smirk rising up the corner of her lips.
Someway, somehow... The pair was really starting to have a more than familiar dynamic to her. And it wasn't somethign that bothered her in the slightest, for whatever reason.
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Post by hoodwink on Jul 27, 2021 15:59:08 GMT -5
”Lamont, get down there!” Reena’s chastising carried across the open deck, though the gusting wind around them threatened to drown most sounds out—at least for those without an inhuman aid to their perceptions. The skies had been calm enough during the voyage, as Kujo had maintained his enhanced perception as he’d scanned, replacing his own emerald gaze for one of vast stars. Despite the apparent lack of threat, the large and stoic man was hardly relaxed. ”Not once did you mention Alphinaud in all of this—“ M’Lyn’s voice caught his attention, as Kujo glanced over his shoulder to where the Miqo’te stood, noting the same name as earlier being brought up. So, they do play a role in this, after all? Whether it was a role that aided this world’s main plot, or actually would aid their own objective for coming here, was another story. ”And we’re here.” One he’d have to ask later, by the sounds of it. The Roegadyn’s voice boomed as though thunder across the opens skies, easily pulling the attention of everyone aboard.
That was quick. Grateful for the short trip, Kujo took in their surroundings as they neared their destination. Shimmering plains lined with large crystal rocks and gems sparkled below, both menacing and beautiful. It contrasted with the dead and decaying earth patched between, mostly littered with various monsters among the like Kujo had either never seen or nearly resembled things in folk-tales and superstitions he’d heard in his own home world. Despite the presence of the large monsters, the airship soared easily over all of them, though they didn’t escape the scrutinizing and harsh gaze of a particular individual clad in lavender, high above. Tch—pests. It reminded him of the Heartless. Their numbers, the nuisance…for a moment, his jaw clenched in agitation. It wasn’t until a settlement emerged from beneath the clouds that they began to lower, settling the large ship into a somewhat small and modest garage among the main plaza of the small town nestled in between crystals, brick walls and ravenous beasts.
What a dump. Sure, the gemstones created mildly pleasant scenery in terms of the landscape…but it was clear that this was a place on constant verge of being overwhelmed by the forces of nature around it. Or rather, that was the vibe it gave off, regardless of any actual facts. While Biggs and Wedge docked and continued maintenance on the ship, Kujo and the others found themselves roaming into the main plaza, littered with the occasional well-seasoned adventurer. Some wandered through the town while others headed immediately for a large and familiar shining gem in the center. An Aetheryte. M’Lyn had taught him how to attune to these bizarre methods of tele-transportation, but the concept was still weird to him. ”So…I ask that you don’t mind the first door we cross.” Reena’s words brought Kujo’s attention back to what was directly in front of him, rather than observing the area as a whole as his normal vision returned to him. ”I assure you, we’re headed exactly where you want to go.”
The Viera’s words only brought a scowl to Kujo’s face as he narrowed his gaze at her. She was emphasizing way too much here, it was obvious she was leading them to an absurd place that in no way, shape, or form would resemble the goal they were after. M’Lyn picked up on it too, immediately questioning Reena’s word choices, though she seemed less suspicious and more amused (a fact that only irked Kujo all the more). ”While Mor Dhona doesn’t really have an official Guild, they do have a bar…” He couldn’t help it—he immediately sighed and clicked his tongue in annoyance while rolling his eyes. What the hell were they doing, voyaging across monster-ridden lands in near apocalyptic times…bar hopping? ”Damned ‘adventurers’…you realize how unreliable you all come across as, right?” They weren’t adventurers, they were all damned drunks. Why the hell were all of these places of business for adventurers bars?! Did no one have any sense of professionalism or self-preservation?! Was part of the requirement for the gig to have a rotting liver?!
Refusing to allow himself to give into the urge to simply demolish the place entirely and seek out Y’shtola via more direct and violent means, Kujo took a deep breath while following M’Lyn to the Aetheryte. ”Tch—I can’t believe this…” Still grumbling and mumbling to himself, the man oozed a violent aura that betrayed his foul mood. Of course, for one so used to him as M’Lyn, this would most likely only be a source of amusements—for others, who knew? Regardless, Kujo’s face was dark and his scowl deep-set as his hand connected with the shimmering Aetheryte, causing him to glow as he grew attuned to the location he’d rather demolish. Every step they took towards the tavern, the aura would only grow heavier, though the man hadn’t called on any of his supernatural abilities whatsoever. It was merely the raw agitation and resentment pouring from him.
At least it was less crowded and lively than the others they’d been to. That was the only saving grace. Thankfully Reena was quick to reel in Lamont, reprimanding them from the get go. That was refreshing, at least. ”So—just how is this the place we’re looking for?” Kujo couldn’t hide the incredulousness in his voice as he asked Reena the direct question. Did someone that was supposed to be a ‘Master’ or ‘Scion’ really hang out in a place like this?
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Post by therunawaygirl on Jul 27, 2021 17:16:24 GMT -5
M’Lyn glanced back around, her gaze finally stopping after noticing Kujo’s scowl. Looking away from him, she smirked, her amusement a clear one had one been looking closely. The other two didn’t exactly turn to double-check, instead going past a door that said “Employees only”, with Lamont leading the way.
The already small mirth became non-existent as they crossed the door and closed behind them. The room was spacious, far more than just a simple storage room —there were tables and chairs, screens making what seemed illusions of hallways on the spacious place. A few people were there, most of them making ends meet and talking with one another, sharing intel or similar, while a couple few ran errands like cleaning or arranging things orderly.
For M’Lyn, it wasn’t much different from the Waking Sands —if anything, the only differences between there and here was the location and the name. Everything else was much more than just “familiar”.
Reena’s step became a bit more joyous, hopping with a faint smile as she looked around while walking forward, whereas Lamont’s pace didn’t betray any urgency. Being honest to herself, M’Lyn was curious to see Y’shtola again, as well as getting to meet Alphinaud properly. Yet all of those thoughts were brought to a halt as a cheerful voice greeted the group in warm welcome.
“You’re here! Really, we didn’t think you’d make it in time!” “Sorry, Tataru” Reena apologized, “We got caught in a few things… We’re here now, though!” “Are Y’shtola and Alphinaud here, then?” Lamont asked, wasting no time in the chatter. “Yup! I found it odd when they entered the Solar, but I can imagine why that was… In any— Ah!?”
Reena and Lamont both flinched, as yet another Lalafell cut her path in between them, her look one of astonishment. She wore a red beret over dark-brown hair, her pointy ears exacerbating her dwarf-like face and features, her bright light-purple eyes wide open. The shirt she wore was a light pink in color, underneath the which the Lalafell wore simple tight pants and boots. M’Lyn blinked, recognizing immediately who that Lalafell was.
One she hadn’t expected to meet first in a place like that, though. Her expression said as much, although the arms crossed over her chest hardly betrayed much of her shock.
“M’Lyn?! Where in the seven hells have you been?!” Tataru shouted, “We really thought you…! Oh, I’m so glad to see you’re okay!” “I… Guess I owe you and the others a few apologies, huh?” M’Lyn said with a sigh, an uneasy smirk written in her expression, “Although, this is… Hardly the time for such things. We’re not exactly free of time. So… Would you let us go to the Solar and meet with Y’shtola and Alphinaud?” “Ah —right, right! Sorry, I got caught in the moment…” Tataru sighed, “…Oh!” having relaxed a little, she noticed Kujo, who still wore a scowl and overall a menacing appearance, “Is… He with you?” “Yes, he is.” “…Just what sort of people are you making allies with, these days?” “I… Think that’s something I would like to know, as well, Tataru…” Reena mentioned.
Lamont sighed, with some hint of irritation, yet in truth he was surprised to see how wrong he’d been with assuming M’Lyn’s identity. Still, the situation hardly allowed such things, and instead he pressed on towards the Solar, with Reena quick behind him, and M’Lyn ushering Kujo in, while also hinting him to relax his expression if only a little.
“I don’t think that face ought to make any favors while we’re getting to the crux of why we’re here…” she mentioned, “So please —do make an effort to calm your senses?”
Inside the Solar, past a door, was a pair of individuals in a similar fantasy-like attire and attributes. One of them was an Elezen whose height matched one of a teen —perhaps close to Alice, if it helped in comparison. He had white hair, a long yet thin ponytail adorned with a blue knot, while his attire consisted of a white tunic and matching pants beneath a blue coat, a grimoire strapped to his side. The one they were talking to was a Miqo’te with short white hair, ears and puffy tail contrasting her light brown skin and facial markings. Her eyes, visible by a glance, were a pale silver, yet the faint hint of teal remained in a few glints. Her outfit was a long-sleeved white top, the sides and back extended akin a dress, black shorts and high black boots, finishing the outfit with a black bolero.
“We’re here. Apologies for the wait —Y’shtola, Alphinaud.”
Lamont’s voice resonated vividly in the silent room, bringing the pair’s attention towards the group. M’Lyn flinched a tad, finally realizing something in the Miqo’te gaze that simply… Unsettled her —yet now wasn’t the time for such inquiries. Instead, turning away from the sight, she noticed the teen looking at her with an expression similar to the one Tataru had earlier, while the Miqo’te was considerably calmer.
Almost as if she knew all of this would happen eventually, and was simply just a witness to it all.
“I-Is that… M’Lyn, was it?” the teen Elezen said, astonished, before looking at the Miqo’te that was his partner, “I’m not recalling it wrong, am I?” “You are not —that is M’Lyn” the Miqo’te replied, a faint smirk in her lips, “And to think —we really did consider you fallen in battle… Though it is relieving to see you are, in fact, alive.” “…” M’Lyn blinked, shocked, before coming with an unamused look, “Do not kill me just yet, thank you, Y’shtola.” “…And you might be?” the teen Elezen looked at Kujo, “I take it an ally of M’Lyn’s? …I’m Alphinaud Levelleur. And this here is Y’shtola Rhul. Please —do call us by name, though. No need for honorifics.”
While the group continued with introductions, if Kujo was attentive, he’d notice the Miqo’te —Y’shtola— looking at him with a curious look, her silver eyes looking straight at his emerald ones, as if there was something she wanted to inquire, but waiting for the right time.
It seemed she knew something —something that perhaps wasn’t exactly easy to mention… Not yet.
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Post by hoodwink on Jul 28, 2021 2:41:49 GMT -5
Clicking his tongue at M’Lyn’s smirk, Kujo continued to clench his teeth as his question went unanswered. Instead, they led him through the small tavern directly towards a door reading ‘Employees Only’. Lamont led the way into the small room beyond, one less crowded than the already spacious tavern and littered with the occasional workers. Despite the stoic man’s own sour mood, Reena seemed to be uplifted, showing it in her very step as her and Lamont continued on. "You’re here!” It took no time at all for Kujo to make out the small Lalafell that shouted out to them, quick to weave their way through the meager crowd as they rushed up to the Viera and Elezen in kind. ”Sorry, Tataru, we got caught in a few things…” For some reason, Kujo got the feeling if it was anyone other than Reena delivering the apology, it’d seem half-hearted or irresponsible at best. Instead, it seemed to suffice for an explanation to her and Lamont’s delay, something that only added to the other-worlders ideas about adventures.
”M’Lyn?!” It seemed Tataru had only just then noticed the Miqo’te, who had hung back a bit before being spotted. The immediate reprimanding and concern took Kujo by surprise, who simply raised a brow at his ally in silent curiosity. "We’re not exactly free of time. So…” His mood was slightly improved by the fact M’Lyn was quick to cut to the chase, regardless of the sentiments shared between her and the Lalafell. ”Oh! Is…he with you?” Tataru’s sudden apprehension after noticing him almost threatened to snap his patience—though this time he admitted to himself it was his own fault. Though M’Lyn was quick to confirm the assumption, it hardly did much to help it seemed. ”Just what sort of people are you making allies with, these days?” Tataru and Reena’s comments would earn them silent glares, though that would be the only retort Kujo gave before snorting impatiently and crossing his arms.
Tch—pains in the ass. With a sigh similar to Lamont’s, Kujo followed suit into the Solar, noticing M’Lyn holding up a bit to provide some ‘advice’. ”I don’t think that face ought to make any favors while we’re getting to the crux of why we’re here…” For a brief moment, the scowl only deepened before the Miqo’te’s patience spoke to him. ”Please—do make an effort to calm your senses?” She had a point. Though he simply wanted to be done with everything, it wouldn’t do them any good if he blew their chances at getting any of the information they’d come all this way for. "Whatever.” With one final sigh, the man’s scowl relaxed a bit (it was still kind of there, but that was pretty typical for him), the menacing aura around him beginning to wane as they entered past the door that led to the Solar and he tried to release his agitation. Inside was another Elezen, showcased by their lithe build and pointed ears, as well as a Miqo’te—though this one had a puffy tail opposed to the one he’d grown accustomed to seeing on M’Lyn. The presence oozing off of one of them was staggering—though it took him a moment to pinpoint which.
”We’re here. Apologies for the wait—Y’shtola, Alphinaud.” Lamont’s greeting to the two indicated the importance of the meeting. So, a ‘Master’ really did hang out in places like bars and taverns? Sure, it was in the back—but the whole thing seemed a little underwhelming. What had really set Kujo’s curiosity was the presence of the Miqo’te in the room—whom he was sure was this ‘Master’ they were searching for, as he narrowed down the bizarre sensation and recognition of something he got from them. Those eyes… It wasn’t an admiration or suspicion, but a sudden notice. Like an alarm in his head, though he couldn’t tell for what. Something in the Miqo’te’s gaze caused Kujo to be on guard—meeting it with his own willful pride as his emerald blazed. Just who was this person, who had eyes that poked and prodded as though they saw through you? Tch—they’re the worst kind. He hated people like that the most. It reminded him too much of her.
”I-is that…M’Lyn, was it?” The white-haired Elezen spoke up in mild astonishment, though the fact they had to double check their accuracy with the name caused Kujo a mild annoyance. In a sense, was that his own pride being stung at the idea of someone not remembering his teammate? What a hassle. ”To think—we really did consider you fallen in battle…” Kujo’s scowl worsened for a brief moment. He’d been mindful of his mood after M’Lyn’s advice, but the comment did cause it to flare mildly. Did these people really know her? If so, there’s no way they’d so easily write her off, would they? ”Do not kill me just yet, thank you, Y’shtola.” His pride was soothed mildly by the fact M’Lyn seemed indignant to the fact, as well. ”And you might be?” The Elezen addressed him directly, causing the stoic man in lavender to mentally check his own facial expression to soften the scowl that seemed permanently in place on his otherwise emotionless face.
Nodding at Alphinaud’s astute guess at him being M’Lyn’s ally, Kujo crossed his arms after giving a gruff and short wave that oozed of someone that hated pleasantries. ”Kujo.” Grimacing for a moment, he glanced over at M’Lyn before sighing. ”…Kujo Tanaka.” Regardless if etiquette on this world was different, he’d realized it was pretty rude to not give his last name after they had given theirs. Whether it would shock her or provide the bare minimum, it seemed the man was apt at trying to make sure he took M’Lyn’s words seriously when it came to this. It was for their other comrade, after all. It wasn’t his life hanging in the balance, here. Even someone as harsh and cold as him wasn’t heartless to that fact. ”…” For a moment, he’d been about to try harder, but the gaze of Y’shtola caused him to pause. She seemed on the verge of asking something—yet it was clear she had no intention of doing so at the moment.
It wasn’t just that, though. He certainly was getting a presence from her of some kind—it’d been that way since he’d entered. He wasn’t able to pinpoint it, instead relying on the enhanced perception of his Akogare to sleuth it out. Briefly, for the span of barely a second, the man blinked as a single eye shifted from emerald to a vast dark abyss—one littered with what almost seemed like their own milky way as he took in the room with the eyes of his unseen specter. Regardless of what the momentary vision would reveal, if anything, the man would remain composed as he made a mental note to pull Y’shtola aside once they had gotten what they came for. Glancing over at M’Lyn, Kujo raised a brow before giving a subtle gesture with his gaze at the others—specifically Reena and Lamont. Were they going to ask their question while the others were here?
Sure, they’d brought them here and followed through on their end of the bargain—but that didn’t mean he was totally open to discussing the main intent of their visit with them. It seemed he was allowing the Miqo’te to have the say in the matter, though, as she was more familiar with the world and the people in it, for the most part.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Jul 28, 2021 6:26:18 GMT -5
Both Scions nodded in ascertainment after Kujo’s introduction, deciding to not ask much more from him, given there was little to talk about. While Alphinaud caught up with what Reena and Lamont had been up to, it seemed the off-world pair had caught Y’shtola’s attention, her silver gaze looking between the pair, absent-mindedly to the words spoken around her. Her ears perked up at the notice of something, but clearly it wasn’t simply Kujo’s gaze changing to enhance his perception.
There was a stir, coming from somewhere, sure —but it wasn’t threatening in the slightest. If anything, it appeared tame. That movement alone brought Y’shtola to voice her questions aloud.
“So, then… How long have you been travelling together for?” she asked M’Lyn, calm and collected, “Or… Should I say, from where have you been travelling together since?” “…” M’Lyn perked up, noticing something in Y’shtola’s tone. “You know, I’m curious about that myself…” Reena stepped up, catching onto the conversation with the wrong apprehension, “Since Kujo’s not from Eorzea, maybe they met in Ala Mhigo, or Othard?” “…Y’shtola? Is something amiss?” Alphinaud asked, unsure of his fellow Scion’s question. “Hmm…”
Y’shtola crossed her arms, looking straight at Kujo and M’Lyn, stepping forward only slightly —which brought everyone’s attention to her, and her alone. M’Lyn in particular was wary, only able to look back at the Scion Miqo’te’s silver eyes —wondering where the usual teal had gone off to. Just what happened in her absence, for Y’shtola to go through such a significant change? Not only that, but there was something else aside her change in wardrobe that sprung a few red flags…
“I’m holding back my questions here, for I believe that what I’m grazing upon isn’t something to be spoken lightly…” Y’shtola continued, “Yet I’m well aware of this… Should I call, disturbance, in the aether…” “…So, those eyes aren’t just a cosmetic change?” M’Lyn asked, inquiring, “Whatever happened to you during my absence has made you more attuned to others’ aether, it would seem… Far surpassing mine own ability, by the looks of things.” “…You mean to say” Lamont stepped up, curious, “You can also see aether?” “Albeit taking some of my efforts away. ‘Tis not a simple process. Yet, ‘twould seem your ability takes but a mere glance…” M’Lyn finished, looking back at Y’shtola. “I believe said tale may wait. Right now, I believe I’ve made my inquiry clear.” “Would you care, then, to share your hypothesis?”
One could cut the tension between M’Lyn and Y’shtola with a knife, if it was any more visible. The two were calm and collected in their stances, yet Y’shtola’s coy approaches hardly won any of M’Lyn’s favors, evidenced by the constant swish of her tail behind her legs, betraying her annoyance. Wanting to hear first what Y’shtola had to say, the blonde Miqo’te waited, arms crossed in front of her to see whether her intuition was right, or not.
“Well… For starters, there’s something in his aether” Y’shtola began explaining, “Just now, I felt it —akin a stir, a swift change. ‘Tis almost as if you have another one within you… But it’s so tightly connected to you, that the aether flows strangely around you —not in a menacing way, however.” “So… Like the Warriors of Darkness?” Alphinaud asked, tilting his head, “If that were the case, then maybe nothing is too far-fetched of a thought. After all, we know for a fact they are from another version of this Eorzea —the First, as they called it.” “Yet ‘tis not that sort of thing I’m talking about… Your aether does not belong here, nor with the First. It’s completely different from any kind.” “Huh?” Reena tilted her head this time, her arms crossed in perplexed thought, “Then… What are you getting at?” “…Whatever it is that caused that change, surely made you more annoying that before” M’Lyn sighed, “Then, I assume you’re aware —of where I’ve been, and where Kujo’s from.” “…Another world —completely foreign to this one. Am I right?” “…You’ve hit the mark.”
Silence followed after M’Lyn’s acknowledgement. Reena, Lamont and Alphinaud were all completely dumbstruck, blinking in astonishment at the pair of Miqo’tes —although the silence was only a fleeting moment. The Viera stepped forward, her face contorted into pure confusion, and a bit more comical than anyone would’ve expected.
“WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT?!” “A… Another world?” Alphinaud asked, “Foreign to this one? … Is that assuming that the First and the other iterations are also unaware of that world?” “I’d imagine so. Otherwise, I’d believe the Warriors of Darkness would’ve brought it to topic” Y’shtola nodded, “Nay, ‘tis a completely foreign world to us —yet one you’re more than aware of. Am I wrong?” “Then… Kujo’s from another world?” Lamont asked, “And not from Eorzea? Nor from the First?” “…And I take it you met in said world, M’Lyn. No?” “Really, now…” M’Lyn sighed, “I take it habits of yours die hard…”
M’Lyn gave up, knowing there was little to do in hiding the obvious fact from Y’shtola. There was little point in doing so, as well, given that she’d discerned it in a moment’s notice. Crossing her arms and glancing over at Kujo, she wondered whether he would take the initiative, or if she should.
There were no words bounding them now —free to speak in whatever way they deemed fit.
“So, then? Shall I do the honors, or would you give it a try?” she suggested, “She is asking about you, after all. ‘Twould be unpolite to leave it to someone else to answer.”
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Post by hoodwink on Aug 3, 2021 13:41:07 GMT -5
Tch— As his vision returned to its usual emerald green, Kujo couldn’t help but quietly clench his jaw in agitation. There was something about the woman that had piqued his interest—but it wasn’t something to be so easily revealed simply by using the sight of his own guardian, by the looks of it. Figures. That’d make it too easy, wouldn’t it? Of course, things had to be a hassle for him. ”So, then…how long have you been traveling together for?” Y’shtola had focused her question on M’Lyn, though it seemed to have a hidden meaning attached. The ‘where’ in the woman’s tone caused Kujo to click his tongue—noting how M’Lyn perked up, it seemed he wasn’t alone. ”You know, I’m curious about that myself…” Reena’s encouragement for the curiosity did nothing to help them, earning her a quick and mild glare. "Y’shtola? Is something amiss?” Kujo was all too aware of the subtle comm device attached to the inside of his ear—Lid was hearing and observing everything. If they’d done something, or would do something to betray the rule of the ‘World Order’, what would become of their mission? What would happen to Jack? What would they do about Liz?
As Y’shtola’s gaze pierced him and M’Lyn, the stoic man had solidified his heart with a fierce determination. We’re getting what we came for. He didn’t care how it happened. ”I’m holding back my questions here, for I believe that what I’m grazing upon isn’t something to be spoken lightly…” At least the Miqo’te had the class and tact of a Master, so far. For a moment, he’d genuinely been concerned they’d be brazen or aggressive enough to state the fact openly. ”So, those eyes aren’t just a cosmetic change?” M’Lyn’s retort caught Kujo off guard, glancing at his comrade with a slightly raised brow. Her eyes? So, that gaze was different from when M’Lyn was last here? Kujo found his own returning to Y’shtola—what had transpired within his comrades absence to her? The presence and overall sensation he was reading wasn’t something he’d imagined—he wasn’t one prone to fantasies or hallucinations like that. His Akogare was more concrete than that.
As the ‘Master’ pushed her question, M’Lyn deflected flawlessly. It wasn’t that she refused to answer, simply that she didn’t want to assume what her local ally knew. Clever. He couldn’t help but feel a faint yet selfish sense of pride in the fact that she was the one he trusted his back to. ”Well…for starters, there’s something in his aether.” The sudden focus on him caused the man to scowl for a second, listening to Y’shtola’s explanation causing the hairs on his neck to stand. So…she can sense when I use my powers? That alone was reason enough to stay cautious around this woman. Damned cats… Were they all pains in the ass? ”So…Like the Warriors of Darkness?” The Elezen chimed in, though their comparison only worsened Kujo’s scowl. Even though the off-worlder knew nothing of these ‘Warriors of Darkness’, anything compared to ‘Darkness’ couldn’t be great—considering his own world’s superstitions, as well as the knowledge he held around the Heartless. ”’Tis not that sort of thing I’m talking about…Your aether does not belong her, nor with the First.”
He had no idea what she meant by ‘The First’, but it was clear that Y’shtola was leading up to the very thing he’d feared. M’Lyn was rather open with her annoyance, something he appreciated as he crossed his arms and merely glared between the locals. ”Another world—completely foreign to this one.” Damn it. With an audible sigh, the stoic man reached into his jacket pocket and decided to relinquish his agitation. ”Subtle, aren’t you?” Sarcasm dripped from his lips as he lit his cigarette in the silence that briefly followed. ”WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT?!” Reena’s reaction sliced through any tension in the air like a great sword. Really, did the woman have no sense of reading the room? The apparent confusion on her face made it clear she was dumbfounded beyond belief. ”A…another world?” For a moment, Kujo found himself feeling almost sympathetic to Alphinaud—who was not quick to believe nor quick to discredit. He’d had a similar reaction, albeit with far more skepticism involved.
Too bad he wasn’t the sympathetic type. It vanished with the next exhale of smoke.
”Then…Kujo’s from another world?” It seemed ‘the First’ was also a world, considering how everyone spoke about it—a fact to be considered in more depth at a later time, but one that’d at least make the exchange seem more even. ”I take it you met in said world, M’Lyn. No?” It was clear the Miqo’te had given up, as she sighed and refused to deny the fact. Really though, she’d done her best to hold out—not that Kujo was one to give open praise, so that would be a silent congratulations. Lid hasn’t said anything… Did that mean they were fine? If it was a deduction someone else made, did it count? This ‘Master’ was really not doing great at first impressions, in his opinion. She was already proving to be more of a pain than he could have ever imagined.
”So, then? Shall I do the honors, or would you give it a try?” M’Lyns suggestion only caused him to frown, his hands shoved in his jacket pockets as he inhaled from the vice in between his lips. She wanted him to do the talking? That…wasn’t something he’d been planning on. ”Tch—like they didn't get the answer to their question, already?” Glancing from M’Lyn directly at Y’shtola, Kujo’s glare was hardly hostile—but one that showed a determination he’d only solidified recently. ”Like you said, I’m not from 'here', Eorzea. It seems you aren't totally unfamiliar with the concept of other worlds, however..." His gaze was one mixed with scrutiny; an impatience tempered by mild curiosity. "If you’re curious about my own abilities, well…we also have questions of our own. We didn't come here for nothing, after all.” A grim look came over his face, one of stoic business akin to one an insurance agent might wear when telling their clients that their plan didn’t cover a mere half of the damages that’d befallen their home. ”So—it sounds like we could both benefit from a trade.” Part of the grimace came from the fact he knew exactly who he was sounding like—but it was what was needed to get done.
”You answer our questions—I’ll tell you all about this ‘aether’ you’re sensing from me.” He nearly bit the end off of his cigarette. He was giving up a huge advantage he had to learn more about the woman’s own bizarre powers by showing his hand—but he needed information on Liz first and foremost. That was why he was here. His own curiosities could hardly compare to a life. At least, not when it came to that one...besides, having Alice cry would be a hassle. If this ‘Master’ truly could tell them anything that would help them figure out that damned woman’s powers, or the bizarre curse she’d placed on Jack, they had to make sure to get it while they could.
”So—do we have a deal?” Despite what he was doing, he was still himself. Impatience and agitation was beginning to drip from him, though he was doing his best to keep his own emotions attached to the disappearing cigarette. In a sense, it wasn’t just Jack he felt like he was resorting to taking after in this moment—but another: the woman with the most fiery gaze he knew. In comparison to that, every other gaze paled and was a mere gust to an inferno.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Aug 4, 2021 10:44:35 GMT -5
“Like you said, I’m not from ‘here’, Eorzea.”
With the cat now out of the bag (OOC: sorry, I legit had to), Kujo seemed reluctant to admit it, yet there was hardly a point in trying to hide things further. Aside Y’shtola, however, everyone else was still dumbstruck at the mere idea, while the Miqo’te in question hardly seemed phased by the fact as a whole. It wasn’t too far-fetched to assume the reason for that was due to her own abilities, however, having realized as soon as her eyes met Kujo’s own.
It was a secret that simply would not escape the Scion, no matter how hard the outlanders aimed to hide it.
Eventually, however, the thought seemed to settle in, given that, as Kujo had said, they weren’t completely unfamiliar with the thought of other worlds —in this case, being parallel rather than completely disconnected. If anything, it seemed Reena was the only one unable to fully grasp on the concept at hand, instead unable to do much other than look and hear with confusion.
M’Lyn, on her side, was grateful for the offer of a trade —an exchange of information, with each side obtaining the answers they were after. Kujo’s extension towards Y’shtola, albeit with his annoyance still subtly clear, was enough to settle things straight. “So —do we have a deal?” Y’shtola looked at Kujo after making his hand clear, her silver eyes piercing through his emerald one, before nodding in agreement.
It was the best plan to follow. Besides, he was an ally of M’Lyn’s —so how could she possibly pass the opportunity to help him, when Kujo had helped first?
“Very well —I accept your offer” Y’shtola conceded, “Given that you’re the ones who came with the thought in mind, I think it better for you to state your inquiries first. ‘Tis only fair, after all.” “Wait —can’t we ask first?!” Reena jumped to the opportunity, brought back from thought in an instant. “…” Lamont stopped her chase, before she could even step forward, “They’re the ones who came for aid —therefore, it’s only natural they get the first say. Afterwards you may ask whatever it is you wish to know, Reena." “Aww…”
The Viera deflated, her ears drooping forward after the Elezen’s denial, although they were somewhat far away from the main action —whereas Alphinaud had a first-row seat. Intrigued by M’Lyn and Kujo’s question, the teen Elezen hardly seemed phased by the complexity at hand, only earning him a mild glance of curiosity from M’Lyn’s part.
Having only known him 3 times prior, without much when it came to conversation, the Miqo’te was curious to know why he, of all people, seemed the most intrigued —even more than Y’shtola. Was it because of his lack of ability?
“Well… I, for once, didn’t come here with the certainty you’d be able to answer” M’Lyn admitted, glancing over at Kujo, “But rather, I figured you’d be able to understand our own conclusions better than ourselves.” “Whichever the case may be, I believe we can come with a conclusive answer, M’Lyn” Alphinaud stepped up, “After all, we’ve been through our fair share of trials —surely they’re not as impossible as you make them seem.” “Very well, then…” M’Lyn sighed, “…There’s 2 things we came here for, in the hopes that you’d be able to quell our annoyance. The first one being… We’re facing an enemy unlike either Kujo or I have fought before —a girl, no less, whose control over darkness seems to be unique and of its own.” “Go on…” Y’shtola’s face twisted into one of serious concern, wondering what it was that her ally was tapping into. “I’m sure Kujo could tell you better, given that he’d fought her to the limits, but… From what I’m able to tell, she’s able to drain people’s own strength and increase her own based on that. We have no knowledge of the limits of that power… But it’s not the only thing she seems capable of doing.”
A little moment of silence followed, with M’Lyn wondering how to phrase it properly. Lid was listening, after all —and even if she knew about the more intricate details of the problem, it still wasn’t enough to tell how much M’Lyn could tell the rest. A faint buzz made her ears perk, as Lid seemed to notice their hesitation in a second, having already caught the more problematic details of their inquiries.
“Hey, if you guys are hesitating ‘cause I’m listening, don’t be” the mechanic spoke over the comms, “After all, we did agree to keep all of this secret, didn’t we? You’re not exactly breaking the World Order by telling ‘em what you went there for, when they guessed it first —heck, you knew this could happen, didn’t you?” “…I guess you’re not wrong —though thanks for the reassurance” M’Lyn said with a sigh, before raising her gaze towards the two Scions in front of her, “This enemy of ours not only seems able to drain strength of others, but… How to explain it…” the Miqo’te fumbled a little before coming with the right words, “One of our own allies, in another world, has been afflicted with what we describe to be a ‘curse’ of sorts —slowly draining him of life. ‘Tis only due to some sort of power he has, that he’s been able to survive thus far —but we’re not sure just for how long he’ll be able to hold on. Therefore… We’ve been aiming to find a way to remove said ‘curse’, in hopes to save him.”
Y’shtola crossed her arms, deep in thought after taking in the information M’Lyn had passed onto them. Based solely on the Miqo’te’s expression, it was certainly not exactly easy for the Scion to give a proper answer. Noticing this, Alphinaud perked up, looking at Kujo after the mention of him having fought against this “enemy” of theirs.
It was only natural to assume he’d be able to give a more specific answer, no?
“Since M’Lyn mentioned you’d know better… Mayhap would you be so kind as to tell us exactly what this power entails?” the Elezen asked, “Perhaps then we may be able to draw a proper reply to your inquiry.”
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Post by hoodwink on Aug 4, 2021 13:23:25 GMT -5
((OOC: lmaoooo I can’t believe you))
Most locals aside from Y’shtola seemed beside themselves still, though Kujo had anticipated as much. For a moment, silence and smoke lingered in the air as everyone lapsed into disbelief or awe. It only lasted a moment—well, at least for most of those present. Reena still looked lost, though her comical disbelief had shifted into a somewhat sullen confusion.
”Very well—I accept your offer.” The Miqo’te conceded, her expression hardly giving anything away. It seemed the ‘Master’ had enough class to grant them their request first, though not everyone had the same etiquette.
”Wait—can’t we ask first?!” Kujo sighed a bit, exhaling his vice as he gave a mild roll of the eyes towards the Viera.
”They’re the ones who came for aid—“ Lamont’s mention of them being in need caused the man in lavender to grimace, not that he could reject the fact. At the end of the day, they were the ones coming to this world for something, it hadn’t been vice versa. The sting to his pride was mild enough for him to ignore it, for now.
”Well…I, for once, didn’t come here with the certainty you’d be able to answer.” M’Lyn began to recount the reasons they’d come, summarizing the topics rather neatly for the locals who were otherwise unaware and outside of it. "I’m sure Kujo could tell you better, given that he’s fought her to the limits,” Her comment caused him to grimace through the faint smoke drifting off his vice. Tch—don’t make it sound so frivolous… If anything, she was making him seem underwhelming, when she described it like that. What was with her trying to get him to talk, lately? Was she that quick to worm her way out of it, since it’d been his idea, after all?
”Hey, if you guys are hesitating ‘cause I’m listening, don’t” Lid’s voice chirped quietly through their subtle comm devices, causing Kujo to raise a brow quietly. ”You’re not exactly breaking the World Order by telling ‘em what you went there for,” Well, it was relieving to know they weren’t directly shattering what few rules they had to uphold.
”One of our own allies, in another world, has been afflicted with what we describe to be a ‘curse’ of sorts—“ The direct conversation around Jack’s condition caused his jaw to tighten and fist to clench. Jack… How much time did they have, really? Rather than be daunted by such a reality, Kujo was merely more determined than ever—impatient, even. While Y’shtola seemed to take the information in, Alphinaud perked up, forever the assistant.
”Since M’Lyn mentioned you’d know better…” Scowling a bit at his comrade, Kujo grunted with a brief nod in confirmation while his gaze fixed on the young Elezen.
”She summed it up well enough.” He pulled the half-smoked cigarette from his lips, his tone gruff yet not aggressive, merely showcasing his own agitation with the situation. ”That *&%$@ is able to control dark energy like we’ve never seen. Not only can she use it offensively, but defensively, as well.” Grimacing as he recalled the odd visages they’d been plagued with on past worlds before meeting Liz face-to-face, Kujo focused on his retelling, rather than the rage bubbling in his gut. ”She uses it to project herself in other areas, wreaking havoc by summoning pes—er, monsters—created of the same energy. On top of that, she has an endless supply of resources, considering the fact she siphons the life-force of things around her.” Of course, when someone like him was around, it was limitless. Otherwise, normal warriors and life-forms of all kinds would most likely find themselves drained to ‘empty’—a grim and gristly fate he’d been powerful enough to avoid. It was a pain, she was literally turning 'light' into 'darkness' to use against them.
”I’m not sure if you have these monsters on your world—but they were a nuisance where I’m from. At least, until we got rid of them.” Truthfully, it hadn’t been him or M’Lyn that had solved that issue back in his own home world—but Jack, the very one targeted by Liz’s odd ‘curse’. ”It’s like M’Lyn said—this enemy of ours has used their bizarre powers over darkness itself to leech the life force from our comrade.” Now that he spoke it aloud, it wasn’t just Jack’s life that hung in the balance. It had been that odd weapon of his that had seemed to resolve the odd Heartless problem that had not only plagued SanFransokyo, but a multitude of other worlds, too. If him and that weapon were to disappear, what would the Brigade and others do against such a threat? An image of her flashed in his mind—of the woman he both cursed and loved most of all. What would she do, with those things crawling about?
”M’Lyn told me you’re a ‘Master’. Where I’m from, that title carries weight, as it seems to here.” Kujo fixed his gaze on Y’shtola now, having described what he could to the best of his abilities. Truthfully, even with the perception of his Akogare, just because he could see something didn’t mean he could understand it fully. All he’d been able to do was keep up with Liz and that bizarre power of hers, analyzing its movements, power and speed. Nothing more. He’d hit a dead end. ”This ‘aether’ shit you drone on about means nothing to me—but I can sense power.” His gaze hardened for a moment, glancing at the Master with scrutiny. ”I know you aren’t like the others here, either. You may be in origin—but something changed since M’Lyn left, that much is clear.”
Inhaling from his vice, Kujo wondered what exactly would be revealed, if anything. ”Our intel is limited around these ‘light’ and ‘dark’ sources. We figured a ‘Master’ might know something we wouldn’t.”
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Post by therunawaygirl on Aug 4, 2021 14:25:36 GMT -5
”She summed it up well enough.”
Hearing the follow-up from Kujo brought Y’shtola back in track, raising her gaze from the floor towards the travelers, while Alphinaud listened attentive to the added explanations —cementing even further the ideas each one of them had. Of course, even with said details, there was hardly any conclusive evidence as to what everything meant.
Lamont had managed to quell most of Reena’s curiosity and following disappointment, turning instead towards the conversation at hand. He might not have knowledge like Y’shtola or Alphinaud, but what he lacked in knowledge he was certain to make up in experience. Wanting to apologize for his previous suspicions in a way that wasn’t only courtesy, but also helpful, the Elezen stepped forward with a question in mind —hopefully setting a few things clear.
“You mention how this enemy is able to project herself in other areas, but if I may… Does that mean physically? Akin teleportation?” he asked the pair. “Nay —while she uses those projections of hers, she’s completely intangible” M’Lyn shook her head, “We’ve met her in person, however, and at said time she was completely corporeal. As per her admission, she uses those projections in exchange for not being able to travel the way we do, from world to world.” “Nevertheless, they’re always the same person…” Y’shtola hummed, “Well, that makes them rather different from Ascians…” “Trust me —I thought it plausible that she’d be in a similar path, but I was sorely mistaken. I do not recall an Ascian of her nature.” “You can probably guess that Reena or I haven’t, either” Lamont joined with a shrug, “Else, we would’ve most likely been of more aid.”
M’Lyn sighed with clear disappointment. Sure, she hadn’t expected an immediate answer, but this lack of information was starting to annoy her —unknowingly, about the same annoyance as Kujo felt due to it all. Despite the willingness of all of them to help, it seemed neither Y’shtola, Alphinaud, Lamont or Reena had immediate answers or possible hypothesis. Little by little, it was becoming akin another dead end.
”M’Lyn told me you’re a ‘Master’. Where I’m from, that title carries weight, as it seems to here.” Kujo chimed in with a comment aimed towards Y’shtola, bringing everyone out of thought for a moment. While his lack of understanding towards “aether” made sense, given his background —though not where his focus was aimed—, he made it evident that general knowledge about light and darkness escaped them.
Though not like Y’shtola could say any better.
“There’s only so much I believe could aid you —and that’s with telling you all there is to know” the Miqo’te shrugged, a little down, “Though, of course, that’s only assuming what this word claims to be ‘Light’ and ‘Darkness’ —or, as we know them, Hydaelyn and Zodiark.” “I hardly see those names being a thing we need, Y’shtola” M’Lyn rebutted, “They only apply to this world, but not others.” “I’m well aware of that —hence the conflict I have to explain it…” “I believe I’d be able to come up with a similar comparison?” Alphinaud offered, catching M’Lyn and Y’shtola off-guard. The Elezen looked between the travelers, quick to return to a calmer composure, “Let’s consider things akin a painting —you have a myriad of colors at your disposal, yes? And let us consider ‘light’ as actual lighting, whereas ‘darkness’ is the shadow. The more lighting you apply to the colors, the brighter and closer to white they become —in a similar way to how, with shadow, they become darker and eventually black. As we have it, then, ‘light’ and ‘darkness’ are simply elements, yet ones of great importance —ones that basically affect how things work.” “…” M’Lyn glanced over at Kujo, before turning back towards Alphinaud, “While it helps a bit in understanding, it doesn’t clear much on our end.” “…Though it may change how we perceive the way we answer” Y’shtola mentioned, raising her head, “Were we to assume things in a way Alphinaud suggests, then explanations become much more universal —mayhap even helpful— to everyone’s understanding.” “Then… Do you think—?” “Alphinaud, we’ve got trouble!”
Erupting the room in a hassle, Tataru came running through the doors of the Solar, panting a little bit with apparent urgency. Everyone —even M’Lyn— turned towards her with great attentiveness, alerted of the tone in the Lalafell’s voice. Recovering her breath, Tataru looked up, a worry clear in her eyes.
“Tataru? What is it?” “Word from the Twin Adder —they’ve noticed a sudden increase in Ixtali explorations in the Black Shroud. This can’t be anything good.” “Garuda… Do they plan on summoning her yet again…?” Lamont groaned, annoyed, before stepping forward, “They've reached for us, then?” “They were asking for our help, yes… Will you join them?” “Of course!” Reena jumped in, determined, “We can’t let the Lady of the Vortex run rampant once more!”
M’Lyn glared a little, her arms crossed and a sudden agitation written on her entire body language in only the span of a second. Not only because of the mention of “Garuda”, but the thought of the place they had mentioned not even minutes ago.
Wasn’t it perhaps too soon, for the Miqo’te who’d just returned to her home world? Noticing the unease written in her body language, Y’shtola sighed, her silver eyes looking at her with no apparent concern, yet in reality, the Miqo’te knew exactly what her ally was thinking. Perhaps it was better to distract her from that…
“M’Lyn” she called, “While you are a Scion, and one of Hydaelyn’s chosen, you have no need to aid here, since you yourself have inquiries of your own.” “…” M’Lyn sighed, shaking her head, “Whilst I appreciate the concern, Y’shtola… I’ve no intentions of standing back when I can help. It is one of my duties, after all.” “Does that mean you’ll join us?” Lamont asked, receiving a nod, “…Very well. We must make haste to Gridania, and talk with the officers of the Twin Adder —mayhap they’ll guide us in the right direction.” “…” M’Lyn glanced over at Kujo, determination oozing from her gaze, “You may stay, if you so choose. Talk at your leisure with Y’shtola and Alphinaud about anything you may wish to know —although I pray you know exactly what it is we came here for. My absence shan’t take long.”
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Post by hoodwink on Sept 1, 2021 10:17:37 GMT -5
”There’s only so much I believe could aid you—“ Y’shtola’s answer was hesitant, visibly as deflated as Kujo and M’Lyn themselves. The elaboration on Liz’s bizarre powers had only seemed to confuse the locals more, rather than connect the dots he’d hoped for. It was all irritating. Though the names ‘Hydaelyn’ and ‘Zodiark’ piqued the brooding man’s interest for a moment, his partner was quick to dismiss them.
”I hardly see those names being a thing we need, Y’shtola.” Despite the initial brush-off, it seemed that the Master was attempting to connect something, at the very least. Alphinaud’s explanation was somewhat long-winded, but the emphasis on them redefining their expectations wasn’t the worst suggestion. Though each world had its own inner workings and local phenomenon, it didn’t mean nothing correlated. It seemed the Elezen was determined to not give up hope just yet, something that brought a faint sigh from Kujo as he finished his vice.
”Alphinaud, we’ve got trouble!” Just as M’Lyn and Y’shtola seemed to be on the cusp of a connection, Tataru burst into the room as though a whirlwind. ”Word from the Twin Adder—“ It seemed the extremists attempting to resurrect gods were at it again, never allowing them a moment’s peace. ”They were asking for our help, yes…will you join them?” Kujo couldn’t help but grimace while Reena enthusiastically agreed to help right out the gate. Didn’t they see they were kind of in the middle of something, here? Were there really no other people that could answer the call right now? Can’t I catch a break?
”M’Lyn…” Y’shtola had noticed what Kujo had been too wrapped up in his annoyance to see. Glancing at his comrade, the stoic man raised a brow as the Miqo’te refused the Master’s suggestion of hanging back. Tch—figures. She was the stubborn type, after all. That being said, they hadn’t gotten any of the answers they came for, even after coming all this way. There was no way in hell Kujo was about to rush off on some random side quest that could potentially lead to them never getting the answers they sought.
”You may stay, if you so choose. Talk at your leisure with Y’shtola and Alphinaud about anything you may wish to know—“ It seemed that M’Lyn had already sensed his lack of intention to help, though the warning she tossed his way following caused him to click his tongue and shake his head, crossing his arms.
”Tch—remember who you’re talking to.” Did she really think he was one to get distracted? Him, of all people? "Whatever, do what you want. I'll handle things here." If he were a different character, it would have been an opportune time to cash in one of those cliche'd heroic lines, like 'Leave the rest to me', in order to boost morale. Instead, with a dismissive wave of his hand, Kujo rolled his eyes as M’Lyn and the others would vacate the room, following Tataru out while he, Y’shtola and Alphinaud remained. ”Getting back on track…” His tone was gruff, though he worked on not allowing his agitation and impatience shoot himself in the foot. ”You’d mentioned something—names: ‘Hydaelyn’ and ‘Zodiark’. What were you about to go into?” Though M’Lyn had dismissed the beginning of this connection at first, Alphinaud had stressed trying to take a different approach in order to pinpoint something. Frankly, something was better than nothing, which is all Kujo’d been getting from this fruitless investigation of his.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Sept 2, 2021 9:57:05 GMT -5
Following after with a curt nod, M’Lyn left after Lamont and Reena, while only Y’shtola, Alphinaud and Kujo remained at the Solar. Even Tataru made her leave after a while, though perhaps the Lalafell knew something was afoot between them. Leaving the trio behind, Y’shtola perked up as Kujo aimed to continue the conversation.
The mention of Hydaelyn and Zodiark yet again brought an interesting peak of attention, though only slightly. While Y’shtola sighed with some annoyance at the topic, her tail flaring up slightly in response, it was Alphinaud who decided to take the first step in answering.
“As M’Lyn mentioned previously, ‘tis something that ought not to be of much importance to you, or in understanding the working of worlds outside of this one” the young Elezen replied, “Hydaelyn and Zodiark are, for lack of specific terms, deities Eorzeans believe in, with Hydaelyn being also the world we live in. The reason I suspect we related ‘light’ and ‘darkness’ to the both of them is due to their histories —tales I believe won’t aid you as of now.” “Whichever the case…” Y’shtola sighed, glancing over at Kujo, “Going back to what we were discussing… You aim to learn more about this enemy of yours, yes? The only issue I find with such a matter… Is the lack of information we have at this given time. Surely, we can look for it, but that ought to take time, doubtlessly.” “Still —surely there’s something we can come up with now? After all the effort I went with proposing previously…”
Y’shtola visibly flared in a calm manner, something that apparently Alphinaud had managed to catch onto within seconds of looking at her, deciding to step back and leave the Miqo’te to her own devices. Yet what she’d mentioned previously still remained —with how sudden the request was, there was little she could tell Kujo and M’Lyn about general topics, less about the nature of Liz’s powers, or whatever else they wanted to ask about. Despite the comparison Alphinaud had come up with in order to settle things in a more general picture, there were a lot of details left behind.
As such, it was hard to determine what could possibly work, and what couldn’t.
A moment of silence was all the young Elezen needed to make that evident, frowning a little as he looked at his Scion comrade. Here they were, wanting to help Kujo and M’Lyn out, yet with little tools at their disposal. Quick to come up with a solution, he decided to share it.
“While we don’t have information yet —given the nature and timing of your plea—, we may have something tangible with a little bit of time” he suggested, before turning towards Y’shtola, “We can always ask Krile or Alisae to aid us, as well. How would that be?” “…Krile may certainly aid us well” Y’shtola agreed, before looking at Kujo, “Would you be okay with waiting, then? Or would you rather do something in the meantime? On our end, we’ll do whatever we can to lend you a valuable helping hand, of course —but I can’t ascertain just how fast we can come up with solutions.”
Having quickly left the Rising Stones and nearing the Aetheryte in Revenant’s Toll, it took no time for the trio of Adventurers to settle on a plan of action upon arriving to Gridania. It took M’Lyn some effort to focus in the Viera and the Elezen’s words, having found herself in a somewhat complex situation.
It was as if someone was constantly observing her from afar. Yet, unlike Kujo, the Miqo’te didn’t have extraordinary vision or hearing, only slightly sharpened. It was annoying, to say the least —having that feeling lurking at one’s back…
“M’Lyn, are you alright?”
Snapping her thoughts with ease, Reena stepped right in front of the Miqo’te, startling her for a brief moment, before M’Lyn showed clear irritation. With a growl and a cross of arms, she made her stance clear —to which the Viera sheepishly stepped back from, before M’Lyn pounced onto her with little remorse. From afar, Lamont was quite skeptical of M’Lyn’s attitude ever since hearing the matter from Tataru, wondering if something lurked beneath the otherwise stoic exterior.
“Do that once more, I won’t hold back” M’Lyn retorted. “R-Right… Then…” Reena looked over at Lamont, “Should we head over to the Order of the Twin Adder?” “The quicker, the better” Lamont agreed. “…I’ll take a detour. Doubtless there’s information to gather from rumors” M’Lyn’s sudden suggestion caught the two off-guard, “Worry not —I know my way around the Black Shroud. Let’s rendezvous here, at the plaza, once we’ve each gathered useful intel, yes?” “…If you believe that to be the better course of action, I shan’t stop you” the Elezen agreed, somewhat reluctant, “But needless to say, I won’t tolerate losses of time.” “Says the one who we met deep in drinks.”
The smirk in the Miqo’te’s face was a cold and almost acid one, a smile Lamont scoffed at before turning around and ushering Reena to follow him. With the pair now gone, M’Lyn turned around, looking over her shoulder to where she felt someone looking at her…
It wasn’t a recent enemy, for sure —but rather, an old one. One she believed was now simply a part of her past, now back to tempt and tease her.
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Post by hoodwink on Sept 27, 2021 10:48:46 GMT -5
While the others set out, Kujo found himself met with a vague and rather uninteresting reply to his question. Though history had never been a bad subject for him back when he’d attended school, Alphinaud stressed how their own worlds tales most likely wouldn’t aid him in his endeavor—a fact that both had him appreciative of not wasting more time but annoyed that there was so little that could help. ”Going back to what we were discussing…” Y’shtola was quick to get things back on track. In that regard, the two Miqo’te’s Kujo knew shared a quality. ”Surely we can look for it, but that ought to take time,” While the stoic man in lavender crossed his arms and grimaced at the mention of the one resource he lacked most, the younger Elezen was quick to chime back in, spearheading with a determination the off-worlder hadn’t expected.
”Surely there’s something we can come up with now?” Though Kujo was mildly appreciative of the push, the Master herself seemed rather affronted by it—though not in such a way as to besmirch her position. He knew that kind of flare up from watching someone else at work before, too. The thought was enough to cause his neck hairs to prickle, if only for a moment. ”—we may have something tangible with a little bit of time.“ It seemed the Elezen refused to quit, mentioning a few names that caused Kujo to raise his brow in mild confusion and intrigue.
”Krile may certainly aid us well…” Whoever these individuals were, it seemed they’d have more answers—in time. "I can’t ascertain just how fast we can come up with solutions.” Nodding, Kujo dispersed a mild sigh before shoving his hands into his pockets.
”Tch...fine.” After a moment of seemingly chewing on the words, the stoic man spit out a quick gratitude. ”Thanks.” It was clear that he was uncomfortable with such admission, but was keen enough to recognize that Alphinaud and Y’shtola were doing him and M’Lyn a service, here. Despite his rather untempered and brusque demeanor, it was evident that the man gave respect and credit where it was due. ”I’ll meet up with the others, then, while the two of you work.” Unless the Master had any other words before he departed, Kujo would begin to head for the door—planning on using his powers to ascertain his comrades location. Pausing for a moment, he shot a question/request from over his shoulder.
"I assume you already have the means of reaching out? Update me or M'Lyn the moment you find something."
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Post by therunawaygirl on Sept 27, 2021 11:15:44 GMT -5
Waiting on an answer didn’t take as long as either Y’shtola or Alphinaud had expected, with Kujo mildly agreeing to the idea at hand. His annoyance was clear, yet the Miqo’te was sharp enough to know that said annoyance was milder than what it showed —unlike Alphinaud, who shuddered only so slightly.
Not to mention that the quick and spat-out “thanks” was hardly a warm one.
As Kujo determined to join the ones who’d made their way to Gridania, Y’shtola was quick on the catch, stopping him from leaving before handing him over a shard of crystal.
“Knowing now that you’re not from this world, I take it you’re not attuned to many Aetherytes within Eorzea’s territory” she began, “Lamont, Reena and M’Lyn most likely used the Aetheryte here to get to Gridania —therefore, catching them by foot shan’t be a worth-while trip. Use this, instead —think of it as a one-way ticket to Gridania.” “Ah —do make sure to attune once you’re there” Alphinaud reminded, “It’ll prove helpful, doubtless.” “And regarding ‘reaching out’… Lamont and Reena both have Linkshells that we can communicate with —once we come with something conclusive, we will share with you anon.”
Stepping back a little, Y’shtola’s silver gaze met Kujo’s emerald one, full of determination and confidence. It was clear that the Miqo’te was hardly going to stop in her quest, while Kujo would help the others out —whether he liked it or not. The one thing M’Lyn had been worried about yet ringed in her mind, but the chance of temperament could very well be non-existant.
Why not chance it, in the end? If else failed, the others could make sure Kujo wouldn’t be swindled by a Primal’s influence.
“…May you walk in the light of the Crystal.”
Having already obtained the information needed from the Order of the Twin Adder, Lamont and Reena had regrouped in front of Gridania’s Aetheryte Plaza, waiting for M’Lyn to arrive. The seconds waiting became minutes, and the Elezen was hardly in a patient mood, knowing all to well the problem yet hardly being able to help properly —stuck as he was waiting for an ally. Reena had noticed this, but she knew words wouldn’t help in lessening the mood. Nor did the bard feel like entertaining herself and passersby with music, a bit too focused on the task at hand.
They had to ensure that the Lady of the Vortex didn’t run rampant through the skies of Gridania and Coerthas, after all —but without M’Lyn joining them, they couldn’t exactly move.
“…Seven hells —where is that Miqo’te…?” Lamont groaned, finally fed up, “She doesn’t even have a Linkshell we can contact her through…” “Would Y’shtola or Alphinaud, however?” Reena suggested, “They knew her from before, so surely…” “…Worth the shot, I suppose.”
Reaching to his elven ear, Lamont’s gaze was fixated up front, as he aimed to reach Y’shtola and Alphinaud back in Mor Dhona. The reply was a quick one, with Alphinaud answering their call, wondering why they had suddenly called for aid.
“M’Lyn’s nowhere to be found” the Elezen informed, “We agreed to regrouping in the Plaza after obtaining sufficient information, yet she’s gone off and we can’t reach her. Nor do we know where she could’ve gone off to.” “Hmm… And her Linkshell doesn’t work —we can’t reach her either” Alphinaud lamented, “It’s been like that ever since she disappeared…” “So what? Are we supposed to leave her?” Reena asked. “Kujo ought to be there soon —he’s agreed to joining you while Y’shtola and I work things around to aid him and M’Lyn.” “You cannot be serious” Lamont groaned, “If we end up fighting Garuda, we can’t—”
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Post by hoodwink on Sept 28, 2021 10:20:21 GMT -5
Pausing at Y’shtola’s sudden gesture, Kujo certainly recognized the small crystal offered forward. ”Knowing now that you’re not from the world, I take it you’re not attuned to many Aetherytes within Eorzea’s territory.” Apparently the shard would allow him to transport to wherever M’Lyn and the others were—much more convenient than his original plan. Alphinaud’s reminder to attune was silently appreciated, not that the stoic man’s expression showed it. The bizarre events he constantly found himself in only continued to exceed his expectations. ”And regarding ‘reaching out’…” Raising a brow, Kujo remained silent. Though he wasn’t sure what a ‘Linkshell’ was, it was clear that the Master already had a form of remote communication in place.
Tch—whatever. All of this was a pain in the ass. Jack was definitely going to get it once he was back to normal. Y’shtola stepped back, her gaze pulling the man from his brooding. For a moment, there was silence in the room. Truthfully, Kujo wasn’t sure what she was staring so intently for, but was hardly the type to be cowed. ”May you walk in the light of the Crystal.” The blessing took him by mild surprise, not that he recognized it immediately as so. Thankfully, due to the context he’d gathered so far, it was something he was able to connect the dots with.
Awkward. He never knew how to respond to religious types. ”…Yeah.” He didn't care where he walked, so long as it got everything over with sooner. Raising the crystal in his hand, the man gave a gruff nod as a familiar blue light began to engulf him where he stood. ShoooooM! Within a flash—he was gone.
”If we end up fighting Garuda, we can’t—“ Lamont’s lamenting would be interrupted by a flare of blue light in the Aetheryte Plaza they stood in. Emerging from the light would be Kujo, hands in his pockets and wearing his usual serious expression. Glancing around the area with a mildly disgruntled gaze, the man in lavender would be able to pinpoint Reena and Lamont with ease. Can’t I catch a break? He had also immediately noticed one particular person missing. Where the hell is M’Lyn? He didn’t know he’d have to deal with these people solo.
Before walking over to the two, Kujo paused before the massive Aetheryte crystal, reaching out a hand and attuning to it as the blue glow from before gently radiated from him briefly. With that out of the way, the colorfully clad ‘pugilist’ made their way to the others, greeting them with a mild wave and gruff nod. Oh, great. He could see the sour expression already on the Elezen’s face, Reena’s body language betraying the fact that clearly there was an uncomfortable annoyance between the two. ”Why isn’t M’Lyn with you?” Truthfully, the man had no idea his own comrade was missing in action at the moment, having just arrived and not being in the communication link the others had—those ‘linkshells’.
If anything, the man figured perhaps the Miqo’te had grown annoyed by the lush and bard she accompanied. That can’t be it. Though somewhat in character for her, the woman was far too professional to storm off due to mild disagreements. Was there a part of the mission that had required them to split up…? As the man was beginning to piece it together himself, surely Lamont or Reena would have some better methods of clueing him in…
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Post by therunawaygirl on Sept 28, 2021 11:02:36 GMT -5
The blue flash was enough to bring Lamont from his discussion with Alphinaud, though the only greeting he offered Kujo as he stepped from the light was an annoyed and gruff scoff. Reena perked up, walking towards him to greet him only with bad news.
“Kujo, you’re… here…” the Viera spoke a bit uneasily, “We didn’t expect you’d be here so soon… Alphinaud was just telling us about it…”
The bard waited for Kujo to do his attuning with the Aetheryte, before he turned around with a question in mind. ”Why isn’t M’Lyn with you?” Reena sighed, her ears drooping forward almost comically, while the Elezen that was her partner hardly seemed to acknowledge the man in purple, instead looking around anywhere but at Kujo.
Apparently, even if he knew M’Lyn, Kujo also didn’t know where she could’ve gone off to.
“Well… We were planning on going together to the Order of the Twin Adder to obtain what information they had for us, but… M’Lyn decided to split from us, saying she’d listen around for rumors about what’s been happening in Gridania…” Reena began to explain, “We agreed to rendezvousing here, but… It’s been quite some time, and she’s yet to show up.”
Having informed Kujo about the situation, the Viera turned around to see Lamont, though he hardly seemed willing to look back at her or Kujo, bitter as he was about the predicament. Who would’ve expected a lush would be so serious in a given situation? Though he seemed uninterested in the conversation, in fact there was something he was trying to pinpoint…
They had been given valuable information from the order that safeguarded Gridania —so perhaps, there were some hints within said information that would determine the Miqo’te’s whereabouts.
“I take it… You wouldn’t possibly know where M’Lyn could’ve gone off to?” Reena asked Kujo, as she turned back towards him, “Given that you two know each other for some time, mayhaps she’s mentioned something about… Going elsewhere, or whatnot? ‘Twould seem her Linkshell’s broken, if Alphinaud’s intel was of any help…” she sighed, a little disappointed.
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Post by hoodwink on Oct 22, 2021 10:17:33 GMT -5
Reena’s demeanor was easy to read—unsure and hesitant, clearly the bearer of bad news. Lamont’s was hardly any more reassuring, as the tall Elezen closed themselves off to stupor in their bitter resentment. ”M’Lyn decided to split from us,” Though it wasn’t entirely surprising to hear that the Miqo’te had chosen a task in solitude, the fact that they’d missed the rendezvous time was a major red flag. M’Lyn was always serious and punctual when it came to the tasks at hand. Can’t I catch a break? Grimacing as he heard the news, Kujo glanced (or rather, glared) around the plaza they stood in, not catching any sign of his ally. She knows we don’t have time for this right now… Both of them were here for a main goal, one he was sure he could trust M’Lyn to take as seriously, if not more seriously, than himself. It wasn’t like her to waste precious time. ”I take it…you wouldn’t possibly know where M’Lyn could’ve gone off to?” Reena seemed disheartened, clearly at a loss—her dejected tone pulling Kujo out from his thoughtful fog.
”Wherever she is, she won’t be sight-seeing.” There was a gnawing feeling in the pit of his stomach—a pang of annoyance similar to when Jack had disappeared. Tch—what a pain. Anytime one of his comrades went missing, it always led to something troublesome. ”My guess is that she either found a lead she had to follow alone for the time being, or…” He paused briefly, clearly finding the last case the least likely. ”…something caught her by surprise.” It was hard to imagine just what or who could potentially take someone like M’Lyn of all warriors by surprise, but Kujo had to be open to possibilities. This wasn’t a world he was familiar with by any means. If the Miqo’te had come from here and was just one of many high-ranking fighters, who knew what other sources of power lay dormant in the shadows? Even if the Heartless weren’t here, Y’shtola had openly discussed sources of Light and Dark. It was clear which side they were on and which side they were fighting.
”I can track her down.” Though Kujo seemed at least mildly annoyed, it seemed he was at least willing to shoulder the burden without open complaint. Whether he wanted to admit it or not, the Miqo’te had grown on him in their travels—he had enough sense of responsibility to help a teammate in need, anyway. ”I don’t know the area, but with my…’abilities’, it should be quick enough.” Giving a brief sigh, Kujo readied himself before glancing between the two once more, pulling out the Linkshell that he’d been given. ”Her’s might be broken, but I’ll use the one Y’shtola gave me once I find her. Until then, it’d be smart if you stayed here, in case she manages to come back before I find her.”
Unless there was any open protest to the plan, Kujo would prepare to set off with the speed of his Akogare. Before he did (which would also give the two time to either agree or protest), the stoic pugilist reached out to their ‘main base’. "Lid, you catch that?” It’d been some time since they’d checked in, but he couldn’t help but feel aggravated and wanting to ensure things were at least not going completely off the tracks. ”M’Lyn’s missing. I’m going to look for her.” For a moment, he hardly wanted the answer anymore, almost deciding to forget about it and release his finger from the comm device in his ear. ”How are we doing…on time?” It was easier than openly asking Jack’s current condition.
The man had his own walls, after all.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Oct 22, 2021 12:54:45 GMT -5
Reena’s ears remained down, frowning a little after hearing that Kujo had no idea on where M’Lyn could’ve gone. She had expected something from someone who knew the Miqo’te in question, but to hear they knew nothing at all… It was disheartening, to say the least. The Viera further listened to what Kujo thought could’ve happened —either she’d found a lead or had been caught in an ambush. The latter was more unlikely, though.
After all, M’Lyn knew Gridania like the back of her hand, no? She’d stated that before, after all.
”I can track her down.” Reena and Lamont both perked up after seeing the Linkshell in Kujo’s hand, and stating that he would be capable of a quick search around the area —but what good would it do, if Kujo knew nothing of his whereabouts? Lamont narrowed his eyes, finally catching onto the one thing that had been bothering him for a while, while Reena was quick to retort to the man’s offer.
“Even if you can communicate with us, what good will it do if you don’t know Gridania?!” the Viera asked, “Not only do we not have a single lead, the Black Shroud is vast —without any sort of clue, we can’t possibly expect to find M’Lyn within a reasonable time window!” “I agree with Reena… Though slightly” the Elezen’s tone suddenly perked up the Viera’s ears, “While we have nothing to go on… Our avid eavesdropper might know a thing or two.” “Huh? What are you…?”
While Reena inquired on Lamont’s rather vague commentary, Lid would pick up Kujo’s questions without a hitch. A hum was the first thing to reach him, with the mechanic girl seemingly in thought before giving her answer.
“I mean, I did —it ain’t like I can’t hear…” she retorted, “Though… Regarding how you’re doin’ on time… I would’ve imagined Jack would’ve showed up here at a time… Remember? Jake called Elena’s bluff, and if that’s the case, he should be going around, looking for something to do…” Lid later scoffed, “I’m not assuming the worst, though —would’ve known about it by now. Maybe he’s just sulking somewhere… Wherever that somewhere is.” “You can come out —I’m already aware of your presence.”
Lamont’s voice would break through the two outlander’s communication almost immediately, yet the fact that he was looking elsewhere with a glare would most likely indicate that it wasn’t Lid he was talking about —but rather someone else, someone Reena couldn’t pinpoint, still inquiring about this mysterious eavesdropper the Elezen was so keen on getting out of hiding.
How did he even notice them before her, though? Maybe that question was better asked elsewhere, as Lamont ushered his next line.
“I shan’t repeat myself twice —show yourself, or I’ll make you.” “Really —who are you talking to?!” Reena began to seethe, her ears dropping slightly flat against her head, “There’s no one out there eavesdropping on us! …Right?” “There is —and I’d believe that they’re related to why M’Lyn isn’t here with us at the moment.” “Hmm…”
Reena decided to give it a try, looking out to where Lamont had been glaring. If Kujo would look the same way, with his perception surpassing regular mortal’s limits, he would be able to spot it —a thin tail and thin ears, similar to the one M’Lyn had. These ones, however, instead of blonde, were dark-brown. A single motion before they slipped behind the buildings of Gridania, movement Lamont wasn’t going to leave unanswered —instead immediately chasing after them much for Reena’s dismay. The Viera had no choice to chase after Lamont, who in turn was chasing after their eavesdropping runaway. With impressive jumping abilities and agility natural to the Dragoon, he was able to cut distance incredibly fast, cutting the eavesdropper’s path short abruptly —the runaway being another Miqo’te, with a build similar to M’Lyn, yet their face was covered with a wooden mask.
“Where, pray tell, were you going?” Lamont inquired, having cut their path. “W-How…?!”
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Post by hoodwink on Nov 10, 2021 20:16:32 GMT -5
”Even if you can communicate with us, what good will it do if you don’t know Gridania?!” Reena’s exclamation caused Kujo to click his tongue. His original plan had simply been to go to the highest point and utilize his powers of perception and speed to pinpoint the Miqote. Of course, he also planned on some foot-work, knowing he’d be faster than either of the locals regardless of lack of direction.
”While we have nothing to go on…our avid eavesdropper might know a thing or two.” Raising a brow, Kujo’s intrigue by Lamont’s statement was interrupted by a familiar voice crackling through the earpiece he wore.
”It ain’t like I can’t hear…” Lid’s retort caused the stoic man to scowl, though he listened without interrupting her. ”I’m not assuming the worst, though—would’ve known about it by now.” Though the answer was vague, it had worked in reassuring him slightly.
”You can come out—I’m already aware of your presence.” Lamont’s call broke through the quiet and private(ish) conversation. Having been momentarily distracted by his conversation with Lid, Kujo was quick to activate the abilities of his silent guardian. While Reena was trying (and failing) to pinpoint who it was the Elezen spoke of, his eyes transitioned from their usual emerald to a spacey galaxy. ”I shan’t repeat myself—show yourself, or I’ll make you.” It only took the time of blinking an eye for Kujo to find who Lamont spoke to.
Those ears... It was a Miqo’te, shrouded in a mask, one who was quick to slink back behind the building sheltering them beyond. ”Hmph.” With a faint smirk, Kujo shoved his hands into his pockets as Lamont sprung forth. Child’s play. With both of them tracking the eavesdropper, there was no chance of escaping. While the Elezen leapt through the sky to cut off their path from ahead, Kujo rushed forward below, coming up from behind to close off their traveled path.
”W-How…?!” Kujo loomed behind as a burst of light revealed his Akogare, which was quick to lash out and grab at the Miqo’te’s clothing with a translucent hand. Looming over even Kujo, the shimmering guardian would aim to lift the eavesdropper off their feet from behind, while he himself stood behind, wearing a menacing glare that would bore into the back of their head. If they tried to make a move to break free from his Akogare (though he doubted their capability to do so), he’d be ready.
”Start talking.” His voice was nearly a growl as his glower worsened. ”You were listening, so you know what we want.” Threatening them, Kujo's Akogare would clench a powerful armored fist, poised to strike at the eavesdropper.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Nov 12, 2021 9:22:18 GMT -5
By the time Kujo had managed to catch up (and poor Reena finding herself perplexed as her instincts told her to follow), the eavesdropping Miqo’te was finding their ground again, a scowl vivid behind the wooden mask. Too bad for them, behind them stood a man whose powers were beyond simple comprehension, and they found themselves up in the air held by an invisible hand. Looking over their shoulder in shock, the hidden face of the Miqo’te would be clear enough to read —shock and anger surging from their growl.
“Tch —so, you’re not alone, are you, you bloody Gridanian bastard?!” the Miqo’te shouted, turning towards Lamont, “You just had to get your little friends involved.”
”Start talking.” Kujo’s growl would be met with iron resistance, hidden cowardly behind a mask. Lamont scowled as well, knowing more than well what it would unravel next. He was admittedly shocked by the sudden appearance of Kujo’s Akogare, sure, but he knew better than ask such things at such a crucial time. Looking back at the Miqo’te, the Elezen’s glare would be met by the Miqo’te’s own, though it wouldn’t be like any could see what hid behind wood. By then, Reena had managed to somehow catch up, blinking in shock after seeing who their eavesdropper was.
“A Coeurlclaw…? Here, in Gridania?” the Viera looked perplexed, “Wha…” “We can wonder about that later, Reena. Right now, we have priorities” Lamont commented, causing the Bard to stand upright with full attention, “So? Surely you know something we do not, do you? You’re related to why M’Lyn isn’t here, aren’t you? I’m sure you know exactly what it is we’re talking about.” “Ah… So that’s what this is about? You want to chase after that viper’s trail?” the Miqo’te asked with arrogance, “Tch… Good luck there. You’re not going to be able to help her much, not with what she’s tackling. Serves her right for betraying us like this!” “Betraying…?” Lamont glared as he thought, “Then I was right…” “…Kujo, do you mind one thing?” Reena asked, her ears upright as an idea sparked in her head, “I think I know where M’Lyn’s gone off to. If I were to give you directions, do you think you make it there, posthaste?” “…” Lamont crossed his arms, closing his arms in thought as he attentively listened to Reena’s plan. “While Lamont and I handle things here with this Coeurlclaw, you can go ahead where M’Lyn is at. I’m positive she’s at the South Shroud.” “Wha—!” the Miqo’te flinched, “You—!” “Quiet, you —we’re far from done with you” Lamont scowled, glaring into the Miqo’te’s gaze, “...I agree with Reena —given that you’re unattuned with the Aetheryte at Quarrymill, the fastest way is for you to get a head start. We shan’t take long here.”
Both Adventurers looked at the man in purple, waiting for an answer to the idea —willing to make quick changes if he was against it, though neither doubted his involvement. As for the pinned Miqo’te, well…
Needless to say it was better for them to ready themselves for one hell of a questioning session. Lamont was clearly not leaving anything to chance.
M’Lyn sighed, the huff that followed afterwards indicating how annoyed she was. It wasn’t like her to leave things unfinished, but the fact that someone was spying on her so shortly after arriving in Gridania gave her the idea that perhaps things were not as simple as they seemed to be. She stopped close to a more shadowed area of the Black Shroud, spotting a few wooden structures hidden by the forest’s vivid flora. Skoom! Inches away from her feet, an arrow dug its path into the earth, though the Miqo’te wasn’t surprised in the slightest.
She knew exactly what she was getting herself into.
“For the love of the Twelve…” she groaned, “You sure know how to keep unwanted guests away, don’t you…?”
Having said that, however, the Miqo’te didn’t turn away. Instead, holding her head high and her tail swishing calmly behind her, she stepped forward, bracing herself for what she knew was coming next.
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Post by hoodwink on Feb 23, 2022 13:55:56 GMT -5
Though Kujo was annoyed by the masked strangers silence at his initial question, he had to respect the resilience, at least somewhat. “A Coeurlclaw…?” Reena had managed to catch up to him and Lamont, immediately putting a title to the skulking eavesdropper—not that it meant anything to him. Kujo had no clue as to what a ‘Coeurlclaw’ was, or what the title meant. All that mattered to him was that it felt like their neck could indeed snap all the same, regardless of what they were called.
“So? Surely you know something we do not, do you?” Though Kujo and Lamont didn’t necessarily get along too well in general, they worked well at intimidating an eavesdropper and threatening them into coercion. If anyone doubted such a thing, they’d have to concede as the masked eavesdropper began talking.
“You want to chase after that vipers trail?” Though vague and somewhat curious, the strangers words did little other than confuse Kujo. Though allies, he and M’Lyn hadn’t had so many heart-to-hearts as to know all of the details in each other’s backstories. Thankfully, it seemed the locals who he’d managed to get stuck with for this bizarre adventure gathered something from the mysterious dialogue.
“I think I know where M’Lyn’s gone off to.” Of all things from Reena, Kujo genuinely hadn’t expected such a quick and decisive conclusion from her. Turning to look at the Viera while his Akogare kept their eavesdropper from escaping, the man in purple nodded with a determined glare in his gaze. The stranger had already responded how they needed to at the idea—it was clear Reena wasn’t bluffing, and could indeed help him find his missing partner.
”Agreed.” Sighing a bit as he glanced between the three locals, Kujo had his shimmering guardian hand the struggling stranger to Lamont. He had seen the Elezen in battle already, so he had little doubt that the man couldn’t keep true on his word. ”So, just what, and where, is this ‘South Shroud’?” His speed certainly wasn’t the issue. Kujo knew M’Lyn was strong and absolutely not one to be trifled with—the man still had a nagging sense in the pit of his stomach.
Perhaps it was due to Jack’s current state and their larger target, Liz, but now the man couldn’t help but feel paranoid whenever the past came back to haunt them.
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