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Entry tags:
- !event,
- arcane: silco,
- arknights: gavial,
- black butler: sebastian michaelis,
- culture (the): demeisen,
- enderal: jade the prophetess,
- ennead: set,
- expanse (the): amos burton,
- fate/: flat escardos,
- fate/: quetzalcoatl,
- fate/: rin tohsaka,
- fate/: sakamoto ryouma,
- final fantasy xiv: cid garlond,
- fire emblem: claude von riegan,
- fire emblem: dimitri a. blaiddyd,
- fire emblem: shez,
- fire emblem: yuri leclerc,
- granblue fantasy: eustace,
- legend of zelda (the): link,
- life is strange: chloe price,
- marvel: nebula,
- oc: liem talbott,
- oc: matt jamison,
- persona: goro akechi,
- pumpkin scissors: alice l. malvin,
- suikoden: yuber,
- tsubasa reservoir chronicle: subaru,
- vampire hunter d: d
THE SOOT OF IGNORANCE: RISING ACTION
BETWEEN UNCONTROLLED ESCALATION & UNENDING PASSIVITY
The moonlit city of Highstorm has always been a tranquil location.
Its people, passionate about the steady leadership of Zenith's leader — Lady Yima — begin their movements slowly and deliberately. Following the lead of their most trusted Shard-Bearers and the word of their Lady, activity in Highstorm begins to increase in the vicinity of Yima's Manor. The Court, the town square outside of it, becomes a hotbed of bustle and voices. Personnel and attendants rush around with documentation, stirring others to action. A select few figures gather the full force of their long-standing houses, calling on family bonds and their own castellans to assist the efforts that build over the course of a few days.
For the tranquility of Highstorm is only ever punctuated by its decisiveness, its faith that their path is the correct one — and now, they will prove it.
In a trickle-down effort, from the most loyal Zenites to the newest, the news unfolds for them: Amos Burton has been tasked by Lady Yima herself to turn the tides back in Zenith's favor. He is to end the life of the 34th Tribune, Cyrus Marcius Germanus Kokkinos, alongside the fortune who have found their way into Zenith's graces. In the earliest hours of the invasion, the figure of Yima herself steps out onto the balcony of her quarters — the highest point of the Manor — with her robes soft around her body and hands extended to her people. Her silence is punctuated by glowing feelings of pride that flow through the hearts and minds of every last sworn Zenite, bolstering their resolve and encouraging them with the cool, ever-flowing might of the people who look to Zenith's Shard-Bearers for their victory.
She sees them off with unspoken sentiments of love, confidence in them — the whispered promises that she knows they are ready to see the war through. And perhaps none of them will know that it is the last time they see her.
For in the sun-dappled sprawl of Springstar, their target awaits them.
The bustle of the city has always been without reservation; the bright and airy attitudes of militant citizenry look on with confidence and celebratory warmth as their Shard-Bearers have brought them to a marginal advancement over their enemies. While Tribune Cyrus's popularity has waned, there are alternative avenues they have begun to explore — the figure of Agapitos Voreen has become deeply popular, with savvy statements, an easy confidence and a willingness to deny Zenith any room to breathe, he is a shoe-in for future Tribune, whenever the next elections are held.
Which is why, in between one moment and the next, the city is rocked by the efforts of their opposition. Zenite-aligned Shard-Bearers and the small house armies of Yima's most loyal core families fill the streets with chaotic distractions, ranging from duels with the Helios Legionnaire to direct attacks on civilians. ( Where does your character draw the line, if they care to? Will it matter in the long run, do they believe? ) Appearing from several Cornerstones hidden within the city's confines from missions long past, tracking the movements of Legionnaires and Shard-Bearers alike from the placement of listening gems and tracking spells, even rising from the bowels of Kowloon to trap the city in a pincer movement — Highstorm goes on the offensive.
Springstar puts up a valiant resistance in return; however, within twenty-four hours, Zenite Shard-Bearers will have hunted down, cornered and slain the Tribune. In that moment, Meridian-aligned Shard-Bearers will feel a splitting pain: the suddenness of having an integral element of their power ripped from them, the sensation akin to being crushed, gasping under the weight of Zenith's swell. The last trickle of emotion from Cyrus for them is a gentle warmth, fondness and forgiveness and the purity of his confidence in them. He believes in them, he always has, and he prays and hopes for their victory even though he will not be around to see it become reality, now.
His death is announced the following day by his assistant Cetina, the deer-morph girl choking back angry tears as she — with a furious and tearful General Ayo Zaman and the somber, mournful figure of Hieropoios Natalia at her side — lambasts Highstorm for the act of aggression, attempts to rouse the city and Meridian's hope, and pledges that she will not let her best friend's murderers escape her vengeance.
Hours after Cetina's message, in the far corner of Highstorm — following the people's celebrations and rejoicing in their strike, the delight in the might of their Shard-Bearers and the renewed passions of their people in pursuit of their victory — a brilliant, golden beam of sunlight pierces the eternal night of the city.
In an instant, the balcony upon which Yima had stood and the rooms beyond it — in fact, the entirety of the Manor, is engulfed in fire and light. The Manor falls, crumbling in upon itself as debris cascades into the living quarters of Shard-bearers and partially topples into the Court beyond. While the Tree of Life, the Reflecting Pools and many businesses around the Court escape extensive damage, the Manor itself is in shambles. And in the wake, many Zenite Shard-Bearers will feel the suddenness of having an integral element of their power ripped from them, the sensation akin to being crushed, gasping under the weight of Meridian's swell. In the wake of the strike, there is a deep silence within them.
Any attempts to contact Yima are met with the same silence a Shard-Bearer feels when reaching out to another who has left the world entirely. And with that, both sides are left to pick up the pieces and weigh the consequences of their actions.
Its people, passionate about the steady leadership of Zenith's leader — Lady Yima — begin their movements slowly and deliberately. Following the lead of their most trusted Shard-Bearers and the word of their Lady, activity in Highstorm begins to increase in the vicinity of Yima's Manor. The Court, the town square outside of it, becomes a hotbed of bustle and voices. Personnel and attendants rush around with documentation, stirring others to action. A select few figures gather the full force of their long-standing houses, calling on family bonds and their own castellans to assist the efforts that build over the course of a few days.
For the tranquility of Highstorm is only ever punctuated by its decisiveness, its faith that their path is the correct one — and now, they will prove it.
In a trickle-down effort, from the most loyal Zenites to the newest, the news unfolds for them: Amos Burton has been tasked by Lady Yima herself to turn the tides back in Zenith's favor. He is to end the life of the 34th Tribune, Cyrus Marcius Germanus Kokkinos, alongside the fortune who have found their way into Zenith's graces. In the earliest hours of the invasion, the figure of Yima herself steps out onto the balcony of her quarters — the highest point of the Manor — with her robes soft around her body and hands extended to her people. Her silence is punctuated by glowing feelings of pride that flow through the hearts and minds of every last sworn Zenite, bolstering their resolve and encouraging them with the cool, ever-flowing might of the people who look to Zenith's Shard-Bearers for their victory.
She sees them off with unspoken sentiments of love, confidence in them — the whispered promises that she knows they are ready to see the war through. And perhaps none of them will know that it is the last time they see her.
For in the sun-dappled sprawl of Springstar, their target awaits them.
The bustle of the city has always been without reservation; the bright and airy attitudes of militant citizenry look on with confidence and celebratory warmth as their Shard-Bearers have brought them to a marginal advancement over their enemies. While Tribune Cyrus's popularity has waned, there are alternative avenues they have begun to explore — the figure of Agapitos Voreen has become deeply popular, with savvy statements, an easy confidence and a willingness to deny Zenith any room to breathe, he is a shoe-in for future Tribune, whenever the next elections are held.
Which is why, in between one moment and the next, the city is rocked by the efforts of their opposition. Zenite-aligned Shard-Bearers and the small house armies of Yima's most loyal core families fill the streets with chaotic distractions, ranging from duels with the Helios Legionnaire to direct attacks on civilians. ( Where does your character draw the line, if they care to? Will it matter in the long run, do they believe? ) Appearing from several Cornerstones hidden within the city's confines from missions long past, tracking the movements of Legionnaires and Shard-Bearers alike from the placement of listening gems and tracking spells, even rising from the bowels of Kowloon to trap the city in a pincer movement — Highstorm goes on the offensive.
Springstar puts up a valiant resistance in return; however, within twenty-four hours, Zenite Shard-Bearers will have hunted down, cornered and slain the Tribune. In that moment, Meridian-aligned Shard-Bearers will feel a splitting pain: the suddenness of having an integral element of their power ripped from them, the sensation akin to being crushed, gasping under the weight of Zenith's swell. The last trickle of emotion from Cyrus for them is a gentle warmth, fondness and forgiveness and the purity of his confidence in them. He believes in them, he always has, and he prays and hopes for their victory even though he will not be around to see it become reality, now.
His death is announced the following day by his assistant Cetina, the deer-morph girl choking back angry tears as she — with a furious and tearful General Ayo Zaman and the somber, mournful figure of Hieropoios Natalia at her side — lambasts Highstorm for the act of aggression, attempts to rouse the city and Meridian's hope, and pledges that she will not let her best friend's murderers escape her vengeance.
Hours after Cetina's message, in the far corner of Highstorm — following the people's celebrations and rejoicing in their strike, the delight in the might of their Shard-Bearers and the renewed passions of their people in pursuit of their victory — a brilliant, golden beam of sunlight pierces the eternal night of the city.
In an instant, the balcony upon which Yima had stood and the rooms beyond it — in fact, the entirety of the Manor, is engulfed in fire and light. The Manor falls, crumbling in upon itself as debris cascades into the living quarters of Shard-bearers and partially topples into the Court beyond. While the Tree of Life, the Reflecting Pools and many businesses around the Court escape extensive damage, the Manor itself is in shambles. And in the wake, many Zenite Shard-Bearers will feel the suddenness of having an integral element of their power ripped from them, the sensation akin to being crushed, gasping under the weight of Meridian's swell. In the wake of the strike, there is a deep silence within them.
Any attempts to contact Yima are met with the same silence a Shard-Bearer feels when reaching out to another who has left the world entirely. And with that, both sides are left to pick up the pieces and weigh the consequences of their actions.
ADDITIONAL MATTERS
During ( and in the wake of both assaults ), there is plenty for any Unharmonized Shard-Bearers and more moderate Meris/Zenites to partake in. Damage has been wrought to both cities at differing times, and there is a degree of life lost no matter the best efforts of those who value innocents over the price enacted by acts of war.
In Springstar, the citizenry has been ravaged by attacks stemming from the depths of Kowloon: as monsters in the form of both individuals with unusual appetites (cannibals and vampires, for example) and heavily-drugged, superpowered addicts have been finding their way into the city, slaughtering civilians indiscreetly, picking fights with the Legionary, and engaging in general criminal mischief and violence. Following Zenith's assault and subsequent assassination, the city will be on high alert and be deeply hostile toward Zenith-aligned Shard-Bearers, as well as mistrustful towards any Unharmonized ( for good reason: they might still Harmonize with Zenith! ). After the day of the attack, the attacks drop off significantly, but do not vanish entirely, for now that some have gotten a taste, it will take time for Yura to reign them in once more.
The people of the city turn to their Shard-Bearers in the wake of their Tribune's murder; even though his popularity had waned, it isn't as though his death doesn't affect them! Deeply concerned and frightened for their future, they demand information about what will be done to protect the city from another assault like this? Some civilians will turn to the church, or perhaps community leaders, but it seems very few turn to the legionary, after they were so focused on the attacks that they missed the forest for the trees. Their trust in their military leaders is waning, and they’re looking for answer. Some community leaders have tried to soften the hurt and anger of Springstar’s people, but they look toward those whom were not a part of the current establishment to answers.
In Highstorm, Yima's Manor lays in shambles, but the rest of the city is unharmed. Shard-Bearers who were living in the Manor will find that their living quarters suffered from the collapse and subsequent fires, but any precious items/belongings they had in their rooms can be recovered after sifting through the rubble. One of Yima’s most trusted, Florence, seems to be taking the reigns of control, and while there are still pockets of the manor that remain on the outskirts of the building itself, she encourages any Zenites who had not moved out to move on quickly, since what is left should be used by any newcomers who need shelter, and not those whom have had the opportunity to make bonds, and have allies that they can rely on.
The main issue now plaguing Zenites is the sudden, overwhelming crowd that begins to gather in the Court, demanding information from them about Yima's safety — they are frantic, and rightfully concerned about further assaults of that incendiary degree from Meridian. The city will be on high alert and be deeply hostile toward Meridian-aligned Shard-Bearers, as well as mistrustful towards any Unharmonized ( for good reason: they might still Harmonize with Meridian! ). The Manor itself is almost entirely destroyed, with only a shell of the outskirts left, and though those who are left are already trying to sift through the rubble, they are often overcome by their sorrow, and it is not uncommon in the wake of Meridian’s destruction to find some of Yima’s most loyal in distress, for the loss of their leader.
In Springstar, the citizenry has been ravaged by attacks stemming from the depths of Kowloon: as monsters in the form of both individuals with unusual appetites (cannibals and vampires, for example) and heavily-drugged, superpowered addicts have been finding their way into the city, slaughtering civilians indiscreetly, picking fights with the Legionary, and engaging in general criminal mischief and violence. Following Zenith's assault and subsequent assassination, the city will be on high alert and be deeply hostile toward Zenith-aligned Shard-Bearers, as well as mistrustful towards any Unharmonized ( for good reason: they might still Harmonize with Zenith! ). After the day of the attack, the attacks drop off significantly, but do not vanish entirely, for now that some have gotten a taste, it will take time for Yura to reign them in once more.
The people of the city turn to their Shard-Bearers in the wake of their Tribune's murder; even though his popularity had waned, it isn't as though his death doesn't affect them! Deeply concerned and frightened for their future, they demand information about what will be done to protect the city from another assault like this? Some civilians will turn to the church, or perhaps community leaders, but it seems very few turn to the legionary, after they were so focused on the attacks that they missed the forest for the trees. Their trust in their military leaders is waning, and they’re looking for answer. Some community leaders have tried to soften the hurt and anger of Springstar’s people, but they look toward those whom were not a part of the current establishment to answers.
In Highstorm, Yima's Manor lays in shambles, but the rest of the city is unharmed. Shard-Bearers who were living in the Manor will find that their living quarters suffered from the collapse and subsequent fires, but any precious items/belongings they had in their rooms can be recovered after sifting through the rubble. One of Yima’s most trusted, Florence, seems to be taking the reigns of control, and while there are still pockets of the manor that remain on the outskirts of the building itself, she encourages any Zenites who had not moved out to move on quickly, since what is left should be used by any newcomers who need shelter, and not those whom have had the opportunity to make bonds, and have allies that they can rely on.
The main issue now plaguing Zenites is the sudden, overwhelming crowd that begins to gather in the Court, demanding information from them about Yima's safety — they are frantic, and rightfully concerned about further assaults of that incendiary degree from Meridian. The city will be on high alert and be deeply hostile toward Meridian-aligned Shard-Bearers, as well as mistrustful towards any Unharmonized ( for good reason: they might still Harmonize with Meridian! ). The Manor itself is almost entirely destroyed, with only a shell of the outskirts left, and though those who are left are already trying to sift through the rubble, they are often overcome by their sorrow, and it is not uncommon in the wake of Meridian’s destruction to find some of Yima’s most loyal in distress, for the loss of their leader.
A LIGHTHOUSE AGAINST THE ENCROACHING STORM
A few months ago, all current Shard-Bearers experienced a mass dreaming event, full of teeming darkness and a pervasive sense of terror. Following the death of Cyrus and the "presumed loss" of Yima, all Shard-Bearers will receive yet another dream.
This one is a simple, direct thing: rife with a haunting sense of being watched, observed as if from the reeds and brush by a hunter. Whatever your power level, however skilled you are and confident you are in your place, your decisions, your heart will quake before the severe impression of something prowling at your heels. Just out of sight, but never out of mind. Every Shard-Bearer's shard will wrench free of their body upon waking, falling from their physical form as if to flee this sensation of something waiting, patient, for the right moment to pounce.
Echoing in the back of their mind, a wordless, shapeless promise lingers: Forward, or back. Back, or forward. Dart and weave, flit and flutter, scamper and scurry. We are here, now. In the back of every mind, what was in the process of coming before is — it is here, now. Looming right above, waiting for the outcome, watching for which way the last lives at the end of existence will flee.
Upon awakening from the mass dream-become-nightmare, Shard-bearers will slowly become aware of the exacerbation of previous events that have been persisting since October. These events are no longer subtle, and will impact everyone regardless of faction allegiance, with purposefully targeted strikes:
This one is a simple, direct thing: rife with a haunting sense of being watched, observed as if from the reeds and brush by a hunter. Whatever your power level, however skilled you are and confident you are in your place, your decisions, your heart will quake before the severe impression of something prowling at your heels. Just out of sight, but never out of mind. Every Shard-Bearer's shard will wrench free of their body upon waking, falling from their physical form as if to flee this sensation of something waiting, patient, for the right moment to pounce.
Echoing in the back of their mind, a wordless, shapeless promise lingers: Forward, or back. Back, or forward. Dart and weave, flit and flutter, scamper and scurry. We are here, now. In the back of every mind, what was in the process of coming before is — it is here, now. Looming right above, waiting for the outcome, watching for which way the last lives at the end of existence will flee.
Upon awakening from the mass dream-become-nightmare, Shard-bearers will slowly become aware of the exacerbation of previous events that have been persisting since October. These events are no longer subtle, and will impact everyone regardless of faction allegiance, with purposefully targeted strikes:
— Darkness has spread within Springstar. Wherever there is shadow cast by person, object or building, it has deepened, darkened, and grown in size. Walking through any shadowed area or touching a darkened shadow will fill a Shard-bearer who enters that area with feelings of dread, of something lingering just out of sight, of danger prickling along their spine, and entice them to run and flee. If they are not quick enough, an unseen entity savages them — aiming directly for wherever their Shard is hidden and held. They are being hunted.
— Light has spread within Highstorm. Starlight and moonlight seem to sear what they touch, leaving patches of bleached-white scars upon person, object or building. Being touched by the light or coming into contact with a white-scarred entity will fill a Shard-bearer with feelings of malaise, like they should simply lay down and accept what comes next. Suffocating hands waiting to pin them down. Even in the safety of the shadows, the scourging glow of any light reaches for them and rakes across their bodies, seeking the place where their Shard is hidden or held. Ravaging them with hot-and-cold burns. They are being sacrificed.
— Shard-bearers readily become lost in familiar places, as if their homes and bastions of safety and security have become strange ( estranged? ) from their minds. The route to that favorite haunt ( perhaps even their own place of business ) eludes them, and searching for it alone becomes an impossibility. It takes another Shard-bearer, at times, to aid them in breaking free of the mild befuddlement. You're just tired. It's just the strain getting to you.
— Citizens of both Springstar and Highstorm continue to speak about neighbors who have 'suddenly moved away', or the disappearance of a favored shop or cafe. Some mention favorite, useful landmarks vanishing, causing them to forget where they are coming from, or where they are going. When directly asked about this circumstance, they shrug and declare that it happens all the time these days. In fact, there's nothing to really be done about it. And if pressed, the citizenry's eyes go glassy and expressions become confused as they ask who, what, where, and why their Shard-Bearer has begun asking them such strange questions. None seem bothered by this strange occurrence, as if all is well and normal.
— Shard-bearers will begin to see familiar faces in crowds, standing on street corners, peering through their private windows, waving them down at their familiar haunts. People from their own worlds, loved and hated alike rush for them — adoring and hostile alike. Family members and friends who seem to attempt to meet their eyes before the crowd swallows them up; loved ones who should be captured in Shards try to flag them down, calling their names and asking them where have you been? what's going on?; enemies and abusers seem to advance upon them, pushing their way forth hungrily. And then they are gone, but not before leaving behind the impression, the strange sensation that, they are real. Really there. If only for a moment.
OOC & (IMMEDIATE) WORLD CHANGES
The full document for this event can be found here!
So, what does the world look like now that this has all gone down?
The world of Kenos ripples from the effects of our players!
Springstar is (mostly) physically unharmed, though the population has been reduced thanks to the number of murders and criminal mischief that has taken place during the attack. Damage seems constrained to things like broken doors and windows, looted property, and murdered civilians, though the severity is up to how many defend Springstar from the concentrated might of Ryad’s regulars, and a practical army of addicts rising from the depths below the city.
The leadership of Springstar is also shaken, though there are procedures in place for this – if one is particularly studious, they will recall that this is not the first Tribune that has been assassinated, though it is the first in a long while – and the Church and the Legionary have stepped in to maintain the peace while elections begin to be arranged.
Cyrus’s body is interred publically at the Church in Heliopolis for a week after his passing, before his body is immolated during a service, his soul returned to the Tree of Life. Those who attend will feel the light of Meridian fill them, and their Discord may be reduced by one level thanks to the warm hope that fills them, even as they despair at the loss of their leadership. Meridian calls to its most loyal, and asks them to do what they do best, show hope and unending resolve, when things look to be their most hopeless.
Highstorm is another story. The destruction wrought is more property, but the number of people who were within the manor is difficult to count until a week or two after the destruction has been evaluated, and cleanup has begun. The loss of life is not devastating compared to what was leveled upon Springstar, but perhaps the most distressing is that Yima is not present. Florence reassures those in Highstorm with her calming, but firm presence.
With few of Yima’s softer adorations to be found, Florence instead pushes the faithful to muster their will and begin the recovery efforts. After all, they have long proven to have faith in Yima’s guidance, and they should believe in it now when it is difficult. It is not the first time their fortitude has been tested, after all.
Her words fill those in Zenith with a sense of calm resolve, and they may feel their distress and discord from this destruction alleviating slightly. Highstorm’s government works smoothly without Yima, and those who are interested in history will be able to see Florence’s name throughout the annals, as one that would guide Yima’s faithful when the matron was in convalescence, or respite. What Zenith does best, after all, is build something new when faced with destruction. Consider this a primer for your new world, to help bring the faithful back from the brink of their despair.
The unharmonized have a choice, as they so often do. This time, however, the stakes appear even higher than before. The cities are not as welcoming as they once were, and those that have not chosen are beseeched by the civilians of both Highstorm and Springstar. ‘Do you not understand what they’ve taken from us, and what they will in days to come? You cannot let this continue, standing on the sidelines. Imagine the ways in which you could help us,’ they beg, and it feels as though your neutrality will become increasingly inconvenient, as time goes on.
What can we expect next?
As the month of Pelu ( aka March ) dawns, you will begin to feel it. Something tugs at you.
Those who have lived through more than one will feel that anticipatory anxiety rise, as the next oracle is coming. Are you ready to fight to claim it, even when it feels so dark, and even when everything feels different, and harder? Do you look to the stars, and dream of your home? Or do you gaze outward, into nothing, and dream of what you will make from the ashes?
Anticipate the oracle in the coming month of Pelu, and to learn more about those that will step into the voids left by Cyrus and Yima.
And as always!
Questions can be directed here!
Individuals less-inclined to busy themselves with either effort, or looking for a way to gain a foothold/explore the world can report here for exploration attempts. We recommend examining the Kenos Wiki's Locations for ideas, if you don't know where to start. Or! Ask someone in the Discord Server for a recommendation, we have long-time players eager to help.
Lastly, remember that Cyrus and Yima will be a little occupied this time around, but anyone who might ICly have reason to contact them regarding the brewing troubles can do so here!
So, what does the world look like now that this has all gone down?
The world of Kenos ripples from the effects of our players!
Springstar is (mostly) physically unharmed, though the population has been reduced thanks to the number of murders and criminal mischief that has taken place during the attack. Damage seems constrained to things like broken doors and windows, looted property, and murdered civilians, though the severity is up to how many defend Springstar from the concentrated might of Ryad’s regulars, and a practical army of addicts rising from the depths below the city.
The leadership of Springstar is also shaken, though there are procedures in place for this – if one is particularly studious, they will recall that this is not the first Tribune that has been assassinated, though it is the first in a long while – and the Church and the Legionary have stepped in to maintain the peace while elections begin to be arranged.
Cyrus’s body is interred publically at the Church in Heliopolis for a week after his passing, before his body is immolated during a service, his soul returned to the Tree of Life. Those who attend will feel the light of Meridian fill them, and their Discord may be reduced by one level thanks to the warm hope that fills them, even as they despair at the loss of their leadership. Meridian calls to its most loyal, and asks them to do what they do best, show hope and unending resolve, when things look to be their most hopeless.
Highstorm is another story. The destruction wrought is more property, but the number of people who were within the manor is difficult to count until a week or two after the destruction has been evaluated, and cleanup has begun. The loss of life is not devastating compared to what was leveled upon Springstar, but perhaps the most distressing is that Yima is not present. Florence reassures those in Highstorm with her calming, but firm presence.
With few of Yima’s softer adorations to be found, Florence instead pushes the faithful to muster their will and begin the recovery efforts. After all, they have long proven to have faith in Yima’s guidance, and they should believe in it now when it is difficult. It is not the first time their fortitude has been tested, after all.
Her words fill those in Zenith with a sense of calm resolve, and they may feel their distress and discord from this destruction alleviating slightly. Highstorm’s government works smoothly without Yima, and those who are interested in history will be able to see Florence’s name throughout the annals, as one that would guide Yima’s faithful when the matron was in convalescence, or respite. What Zenith does best, after all, is build something new when faced with destruction. Consider this a primer for your new world, to help bring the faithful back from the brink of their despair.
The unharmonized have a choice, as they so often do. This time, however, the stakes appear even higher than before. The cities are not as welcoming as they once were, and those that have not chosen are beseeched by the civilians of both Highstorm and Springstar. ‘Do you not understand what they’ve taken from us, and what they will in days to come? You cannot let this continue, standing on the sidelines. Imagine the ways in which you could help us,’ they beg, and it feels as though your neutrality will become increasingly inconvenient, as time goes on.
What can we expect next?
As the month of Pelu ( aka March ) dawns, you will begin to feel it. Something tugs at you.
Those who have lived through more than one will feel that anticipatory anxiety rise, as the next oracle is coming. Are you ready to fight to claim it, even when it feels so dark, and even when everything feels different, and harder? Do you look to the stars, and dream of your home? Or do you gaze outward, into nothing, and dream of what you will make from the ashes?
Anticipate the oracle in the coming month of Pelu, and to learn more about those that will step into the voids left by Cyrus and Yima.
And as always!
Questions can be directed here!
Individuals less-inclined to busy themselves with either effort, or looking for a way to gain a foothold/explore the world can report here for exploration attempts. We recommend examining the Kenos Wiki's Locations for ideas, if you don't know where to start. Or! Ask someone in the Discord Server for a recommendation, we have long-time players eager to help.
Lastly, remember that Cyrus and Yima will be a little occupied this time around, but anyone who might ICly have reason to contact them regarding the brewing troubles can do so here!
Midna is her own option ✨
Concern knits his eyebrows together, but he schools his expression shortly thereafter. As best he can tell, Midna is unharmed — her discord simply needs help.
If only his aspect wasn't bizarrely opposed to hers. ]
You've got me.
[ He responds, smile settling into place. Discord aside, he is pleased to see her. ]
Hopefully I wasn't too hard to track down.
no subject
At least—
It doesn't take her long to reach over to him. She's never been necessarily shy about touching him. About being close to him. Even now she isn't, though she is just a touch more self-conscious about the way she's presenting herself.]
Are you all right? I heard about what was happening here. I needed to see— [Well. She needed to see him. The others. To make sure they were all right.] —it for myself.
no subject
They've seen for themselves that sometimes, people vanish for good. ]
Luckily, I've got a knack for healing magic.
[ Even if he hadn't, Yuri would have learned it just the same. He'd picked up field medicine too, for good measure. After narrowly surviving a plague, he'd never wanted to be unable to help another in their time of need, even if he'd only been a small child back then. ]
What about you? Can't be too easy living in shady country right about now.
[ It's surely no surprise that he has worried over her well-being too, given the recent spike in hostilities. ]
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He takes her hand and for some breaths, she pauses before she forces herself past that in favour of addressing what she perceives to be his own concern.]
Things could be worse. Highstorm appears to be in a state not unlike the one here. I have no doubt that there have been losses on both sides, though I can't say what the comparison might be like.
[Worst of all, likely no one will come out of this learning a single thing.]
Are those from your world all right, as well? I assume you've sought them out.
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How unfortunate it all is, when all that matters is whether their performances please whatever the Oracles even are. What madness had possessed Yima? Yuri doubts he'll ever know. ]
None of them are too happy about it, as you might imagine. We did what we could to protect the citizens, but it wasn't clear what the target was until it was too late.
[ And with Cyrus gone, Yuri doubts they'll see another leader so determined to keep things peaceable and civil ever again. With the locals having grown hostile in the wake of one attack and another, it my only escalate from here. ]
I suspect Dimitri's taking it hardest... [ A pause as he considers, before he ventures to ask: ] Has Link checked in with you, lately?
[ So far as he knows, Link is the one Midna has some sort of home connection to. Kind of. It strikes him as being not unlike the situation among those from Fódlan. ]
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The thoughts tumble around in her mind—
Where do they go from here? What do they do? What can they do? If she'd wanted to create a third faction opposing this nonsense, it is either too late, or it is the perfect time, in the face of dire circumstance. But there are those who have been fight or die loyal to Cyrus. She cannot expect those same people to show the same loyalty to her. Would someone like Dimitri be more befitting as a leader? Perhaps.
Yuri's question prods at her, pulls her out of her bog of contemplation and as if she remembers herself, she reclaims her hand, straightening her posture.
Ah. Link—]
Hm. I... can't say I know what's going on with him. His behaviour even before all of this was strange. Understandably so, but perhaps a little more than I expected. I suspect he meant to protect me in Highstorm.
[Not just him either, but also Sentience. How strange it is that wherever she seems to go, there are those who have sought to guard her. How many of them know about what she was tasked to do, however...? How many people is she lying to? How many people has she lied to?]
He's intentionally kept himself distant from me. If I thought it would do any good to pry into his affairs, I would, but I doubt that would do anything. I don't think, however, he'll have a repeat of the past.
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Perhaps it's both, considering the reality that his aspect will only worsen Midna's present condition. Imagine being corrosive to someone he actually likes... ]
I see... Here I'd been hoping he had the time to look in on you.
[ With the heightened hostilities, he can't help but worry after Midna. Given that he's with Meridian too, it could draw unwanted attention to her if Yuri himself dropped by. Covert as he knows himself to be, that isn't a guarantee of going unnoticed. They still don't know what methods were used to show the last Oracle to the populace. ]
Doubt it's all that friendly for someone from Meridian, now.
[ He knows Midna can defend herself, of course, but it doesn't lessen his concern. ]
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[With what? She can't say. She just repeats the last conversation he had with her. So cryptic and vague. How unwilling Link was to give her any additional information. Of course, now it all likely makes a little more sense. The furrow in her brow, she suspects, probably gives her away. There is an awful lot going on. It wouldn't be feasible to expect anyone to have a complete idea of what to do or where to go. It's going to take time for everyone.
Lifting a hand to sweep some of her hair back, perhaps too long for her liking, she looks somewhat unimpressed with the way she can't fully get over her own situation. Up until now, she's had to largely put it aside. Eyeing a lock of orange and blonde for what is likely longer than necessary, red eyes quickly snap onto Yuri.
...He's concerned about her. Perhaps. For not just her appearance, maybe. Her situation. Things in Highstorm... One has to wonder how they'll be when she gets back. If they'll even let her in. It's not as though she has any other place to go.]
Well, no one's done anything to me yet. [She reassures him with her characteristic brand of humour.] Not that I've just casually wandered about over there, of course. I'm not a fool. After all that's happened, how easy it would have been to simply take me into custody and assume I had anything to do with it.
[Because she did. Sort of. In a small, small way.]
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He can only hope that he never has to find out, that neither of them ever will. Midna's right to suspect they could try to pin blame on her simply because of her choice of residence. Right now, people are liable to act in ways that aren't rational, among other things. ]
I wouldn't put it past them, considering recent events. It may only get worse from here, so... Not that I doubt you can handle yourself, but if anyone does come after you, I hope you'll call for backup.
[ Midna had already been killed once in this madness. Yuri would prefer it have never happened, but at least he can try to stop it from occurring again. He'd seen what that recovery was like for Byleth, had been there to tend to him until he was more himself again, and he knows it had to be a harrowing experience. Midna had...she may have had no one by her side, after reviving. And he hadn't even realized what happened to her until they spoke some time after.
That doesn't rest well with him either. ]
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When she plays it all back, she thinks about the situation as a whole, she doesn't feel entirely proud of her part in things. What is the extent that she's willing to justify actions with 'necessity'? Instead of lingering on that, however, knowing she'll have plenty of time to do so when she's on her own, she finds herself focused dreadfully on the last words Yuri shares.
She didn't call for backup before. Couldn't have during Harbinger, she thinks. Didn't afterwards either. Better that no one saw her then, especially someone like Yuri, who she feels has seen plenty of weakness in her by this point. But she gets what he's really saying there. To some extent, it is probable that he holds himself somewhat responsible for what happened to her.
Would she have felt the same way if the roles were reversed? She's almost certain of it.]
Hm.
[She replies after some thought, tilting her head and dipping her chin thoughtfully. Midna doesn't seem particularly inclined to make such an agreement.]
I'm not really the type to make promises. I also don't really want you to concern about me. More than you already do, that is.
[Because she knows that he does.]
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That ship sailed a long time ago.
[ As soon as he started caring about Midna on a personal level, she was assured to be among those he's going to worry about. And as conditions worsen, it's only natural that his concerns will increase as well. ]
But I could worry for the right reasons instead of speculating, that way.
[ He shrugs, because indeed he can't compel anyone to do anything here and he won't try. In all the time he has known Midna, he's never thought that he could push or compel her to do anything in particular. ]
...Not that I'd try to twist your arm. You'd easily best me, for one thing.
[ Her hair can carry him, after all. ]
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"That ship sailed a long time ago."
Not for the first time, her feelings are... complicated. For a multitude of reasons. Somehow it seems like time proceeds forward and whenever Yuri becomes involved, things become somewhat muddled. Not necessarily in an unpleasant way. Just that he becomes another variable she suddenly has to take into consideration. She wants to take into consideration. But why is it only ever okay for her to feel that way? It's only ever okay for her to touch him. It's only ever okay for her to take his hand. The moment he begins to do anything like that with her, she throws up that wall.
One might think she's afraid of him, but that's... ridiculous. Isn't it?]
I would never let you do that to begin with. [Which feels more truthful than it really ought to be. Eyeing him with some consideration, she finally gives him a nod.] I agree that I should give you less to worry about. I won't say I'll completely remove that. I doubt I have the ability to. But less should be good enough. If something happens in Highstorm when it comes to the Zenith, I won't hesitate to let you know.
[At least when it comes to her safety. She cocks an eyebrow curiously.]
Will that do, or would you have more of me?
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Maybe for that reason, or others, he doesn't expect Midna to do anything particularly more than hear him. She doesn't owe him favors, and if she does, she's one of precious few with whom he doesn't keep count. So she catches him by surprise even yielding that much — agreeing to let him know if something happens.
She may not need him, but he worries just the same. That she'll agree to communicate if she finds herself in a position to want assistance comes as more of a relief than he could say. ]
I'm hardly in a position to make selfish demands, am I?
[ This much is a weight off his shoulders. It shows in his posture, in his expression, neither quite so tight as they were before, even if by small degrees. ]
That's plenty for me, so thank you for that.
[ He means it. Over time he finds himself surrounded by people who endeavor to make him worry less, but in keeping their troubles to themselves, they only concern him more. Not one of them is completely able to bury or hide what burdens them, and the harsher this place grows, the more impossible Yuri suspects that will become.
Whether anyone shares their troubles with him rests with them, but at least where their safety is concerned, he'd much rather be able to do something about it. So he's grateful that Midna offers that much. ]
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[Never has been. Likely never will be. If he ever finds himself in a position remotely similar to it, it will be because Midna has offered it to him or wanted him there. Much as she seems to give him plenty of other complex allowances that she wouldn't ordinarily bestow. Regardless, he seems to accept the terms that she puts down. That he does not ask more of her is reassuring. He still maintains a realistic perspective of her, knowing that he can only expect so much and that still, Midna is not the sort to commit herself to something she doesn't feel she can fulfil.
As she studies him, she stares for perhaps a little too long. Undeniably, there is a part of her tempted to pull him into an embrace. Touching his hand should have been enough and in a way it was. In another, it's not. She could say it's the situation that keeps her from doing so. What right would she have to do such a thing? But she suspects that plays a much smaller part in it. Midna doesn't rightfully know how to act like normal 'friends' do. Or whatever it is she might think of Yuri as.
(That is a different matter entirely, it seems.)
There is also the nature of her discord, though she's just as tempted to throw all of that out the proverbial window as well. Instead of doing any such thing, she finally clears her throat and forces her gaze off of him, just for a moment's assessment. Lifting a hand, she shields herself beneath it to the best of her ability.]
I won't ask this again. Is there something I can do to help here? The greater likelihood is that I've probably done enough. It certainly seems that the rest of you have... things somewhat under control. Not that there's much to be done at this point. Might only be able to give people time to figure out how to process things and move forward.
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Even so, even still, Yuri's plans haven't changed. They must do something about the imbalance of power in Kowloon, because the steady stream of monsters (human and otherwise) rising up from it to murder Springstar's citizens shows no signs of stopping. Besides, undermining however much of Zenith's power they can in a place positioned directly below the sundrenched city would only benefit their cause.
Thinking about it, he really hasn't had occasion to sit down with Midna and discuss it. As one of the very few who truly has his confidence in his place, he thinks she's owed that much. It's a dangerous venture, what's more, and it would be hypocritical of him to keep it from her when it might well go badly for him at one point or another.
Not that hypocrisy has stopped him before, but still. ]
I don't know about under control, but... I've a little project in the works. Maybe you let me tell you about it and you can decide for yourself whether you're up for lending a hand?
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[Midna parrots him with a surface-level interest that is likely considerably more deeper than it seems to be. The notion is open-ended and can be anything. But when she really starts to look at her time in this world as a whole, she can admit that she's spent a lot of that in a rather passive role. Much of that being a habit that dies hard. Self-preservation. Selfishness.
None of those things have really changed about it, but there is something to be said about waiting for opportune moments. Maybe this is one of them. The chaos surrounding all that's happened... Would it not be the perfect time for her to further her own agenda? By this point, it's not likely many take her seriously. No one would even be the wiser.]
I'm all ears. Of course, the details will be important. I won't commit myself to anything unless I find it worthy of my time, something I believe both of us have become adequately aware of by this point.
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[ Yuri would expect no less. He spares a moment to glance around. Seeing as the wake is quite crowded, and he'd rather they not be overheard, he gestures toward a quiet alcove. It ought to do for their purposes, taking them out of earshot of passers-by and allowing them to see anyone coming before they could eavesdrop. ]
I think we'd be more comfortable over there.
[ There's a bench awaiting them, bathed in relative shade compared to the vibrantly stained light filtering through the windows. Yuri hasn't forgotten that Midna prefers to be out of the sun, and she may as well be a little more comfortable while they have their conversation. ]