#Keira Rioux

[somanoutics]

commission done ICly as well to surprise someone’s IC gf!

[mikhasunthistle]

Grindstone: Always a bridesmaid, never a  bride

Welcome to Grindstone #176, Mikha’s 18th! An extra exciting one, with some very unusual happenings in it.

As usual, things started with the fighters lining up.  Last week Hannah Castille and her husband fought each other to earn more donations for Grindstone, and she won:

Hannah Castille: "If you're not in line, you're not fighting!  Welcome to the 176th Grindstone tournament.  I am Hannah Castille, and I'm acting Arbiter this week.  I won the job off Warren at last week's Valentione's Massacre."

Fighters called out their names and what weapons they’d be using:

Flameson Hammersmith: "Hammersmith.  Rock onna stick n'a Goat." Steel Rose: "Steel rose of the fist. I will be using martial arts in this tournement. May Rhalgr smile upon our clash and bless our blows." Jun'to Nharuya: "Jun'to Nharuya - Blade, body, an' some killer swivin' charm. Eat ya hearts out, ladies, gents, an' e'eryone else!" Gervesin Redsteele: "Gervesin Redsteele o' Ala Mhigo! Fightin' wit' me blade an' buckler, me fists, an' me thick bleedin' skull if ye shites're unlucky 'nough t'get hit!"

Thought Mikha’s match against Berrod last week was uneven? His first match this week was against Flameson Hammersmith, long-time Grindstone combatant.

Meep!

Flameson Hammersmith pulled on his soggy cigar and grunted. "Yez good t'ae dance then?

Mikha thought this would be an easy match. No chance such a big man would be able to keep up with him!  Using his usual tactic, he took off running, but Hammersmith had plans in place for just such a thing: Chains hidden in the grass around the area. He pulled on one, which was attached to a goat’s head, and attempted to trip Mikha up.  Though the archer took one hit from the weighted goat’s head, he won in the end.

Flameson Hammersmith spat a clot of blood and fished his cigar out from behind his ear. "Give em hell bowman."

On to his second round!

Rhan'li Zohra holds up a finger, and fishes out his flask.  He takes a quick swig, and stows it.  He levels a stare towards Mikha, and offers an easy smile and nod, "M'ready t'dance when y'are, mate."

Mikha’s tactic of running and keeping distance is never effective against another ranged user, so he had to do something else. This backup tactic hadn’t worked in the past, but he had always used it against larger foes -- this was the first time he was using it against someone smaller than himself.  He got in close. He tried to stay so close that the other wouldn’t be able to shoot (sadly less effective against a gun-user than it would be against a bow). 

Mikha hit him with his bow, tackled him down, and eventually came out on top... literally!  On to round three! 

His next round, he fought against Khulan Jindir, a newcomer to Grindstone. 

Khulan Jindir: "Its my first time here and I never expected to get this far, so I will continue to give it my all, as should you, I wish you luck"

Though it was a fast fight, the one blow the Au Ra landed against him was a bad one, opening a cut along the back of his leg.   Still, Mikha won in the end, 1-3. 

Judge Jredthys: "KHULAN RELENTS. MIKHA IS THE ARBOR BRACKET CHAMPION AND ADVANCES."

On to the semifinals!

His next fight was against Keira Rioux.

Keira Rioux: "I'm not the kind to worry. Don't even think about going easy on me." She gestured to the daggers on her hips, nodding to the arrow. "Let's do this."

Another good fight, and once more Mikha came out on top! While he took a number of small blows, he had only one big injury thus far, so he was doing pretty well.

Hannah Castille: "Mikha defeats the Wash champ, Keira, and will move on to the Grindstone finals!"

The finals! Mikha had only made it that far once before!  But he had a long wait for the other bracket to catch up and for his opponent to be chosen. 

During that time, a reporter came to talk to him.  Mikha had never met a reporter before, let alone one who was interested in him!

The man wrote for an IC newspaper ( http://news.thecrystalchronicle.com/ ).  They cover Grindstone every week, so Mikha is going to have to find a copy of it!  

Then, even odder, Mikha discovered he had fans.  He had a fanclub. 

Jack Hearts follows the Hyur around as he picks up arrows. He looks at Sye as she approaches. "This is my associate, Sye. She was the first of us to become your fan." Sye Syrlia sees you and blushes with embarrassment. Lucerna Sainahs smiles as the midlander archer is approached by fans. "I wonder if the staff has fans too.." She muses.

Then, finally, on to the last battle! The finals!  Mikha was fighting Wanderer Gadieo to become Grindstone champ!

Wanderer Gadieo immediately drew his fists upward, one open hand hovering just above his eyes and a fist, turned over and set to his opposite hip. He faintly smiled and nodded to Mikha.

It was unfortunately a fast fight.  Mikha did land two hits against the other Hyur, but Gadieo was fast and easily able to keep up with Mikha when the archer ran.

The battle ended 2-3.   Gadieo stomped on Mikha’s shoulder, and that was enough for the archer to yield. Gadieo was the Grindstone champ.

Even though he didn’t win, he had a lot of good fights. All in all, it was a successful night... but he sure would like to win Grindstone one day.

[aeveriedreams]

#1 - Cold

@sea-wolf-coast-to-coast ‘s FFXIV 30 Day Writing Challenge Prompt #1: Specter

~Keira Rioux~

-Six moons ago-

I’ve been haunted by a curse since I was born. Nobody would ever be able to tell. It’s so much a part of me I don’t know where it ends and I begin. All I know is I’ve always hated it. The rage, the anger, the hatred. I blamed all of it on this curse. The ghost that lives inside of me.

Now it’s gone. I lost my aether. I lost my flame. All I can feel is fear. I thought the point of being followed by a shadow was that you were afraid of it. I’m more afraid now than before. What do I do without it? Ever since I was a little girl I knew that no matter what happened, I could defend myself. That terrified me. What if I hurt someone? What if the ghost took control? I always thought it was the enemy. Something to keep at bay and hide away.

Alfredon asked me if I was willing to give it up to help Liam. Of course I did. I love Liam, and I’ve always hated it. It worked. Liam is safe, and this shouldn’t last forever. It doesn’t matter.

For the first time in my life, I’m no longer haunted. I’m alone.

~-~-~-~-~

I walked into my pitch-black room and clicked my fingers, bringing my flame to life hovering and flickering above my palm. With a couple of quick movements I lit a few candles around the room, bringing in the scent of rosewood. As I fell backwards into the couch and stared up at the dancing fire, I thought back to that week. Maybe it was two. It felt like a moon of dread. It had come back, stronger than ever before, and this time I knew what it was worth.

I never asked to have it, I never wanted to have it, but it is a part of me. I cannot continue to push away or hide the parts of me I’d rather people not see. It might scare me on some days, but others it’s there for me. It’s always with me. Rather than a separate entity inflicted upon me that I can’t ever shake, this shadow is me. We’re one in the same. 

The flame was snuffed out as my fingers curled in, my eyes closing.

I’m haunted by a blessing. Together with this specter, I’m never alone.

[aeveriedreams]

#8 - Traces

@sea-wolf-coast-to-coast ‘s FFXIV 30 Day Writing Challenge

Prompt #8: Shadows

~Keira Rioux~

The ground fell out in front of me, one more step would have had me falling into darkness. I caught myself, looking for another way across the crumbling walkways. Ancient ruins were always a gamble.

One I always took.

It was tricky, but I found a way. A couple of quick, precise jumps and I’d be across. I focused for a moment, a swirl of air picking up around my boots as I lept. The air gave me the small boost I needed, landing, jumping, and landing again on the other side safely.

A man had just told me he lost his friend in here, and gave me instructions to the best of his ability.

Which wasn’t much.

It was a tight space as the walkway closed in, but I was able to squeeze through. The thrill of discovery never grew old. It wasn’t about the money.

But you do need to live.

The passageway opened up into what the man had described, an old Amdapori library.

Fortunate!

Half of it was under rubble, with the books strewn across the floor tattered and crumbling to dust. I knew better than to give up. As I passed over the rubble, at the far end I found his friend, crying under the stones.

Can’t blame him.

I told him I was here to get him out and he thanked me, sobbing. Earth was never my strength.

Where’s that idiot when I actually need him?

After digging with my gloved hands, a bit of magic to push a couple of heavier slabs a fulm or so away, and the unfortunate man helping, we were able to get him free.

He emerged clutching a book tight to his chest. He explained it was how he became stuck in here, being too greedy.

Glad I don’t have that problem.

His leg was badly broken, but I wasn’t a healer. It took another bell before I returned him to the surface. Gratefully, I received the book as my prize, cracking it open.

“Shadows of the Past” it read, after some translation.

What a cliche title. Glad authors didn’t change over the years.

I set up camp for the night, sparking up a fire and watching the light flicker, the dancing shade behind me.

What shadows would I leave behind?

[aeveriedreams]

#5 - Gifts

@sea-wolf-coast-to-coast ‘s FFXIV 30 Day Writing Challenge 

Prompt #5: Prank

~Alexandra Rioux~

-Some time ago-

That was a job well done!

I walked back from the markets with a wide grin, waggling my fingers at anyone pretty enough that looked my way. My clothing was revealing to encourage it, as it usually was. Ul’dah was a wonderful place, full of life, color, corruption, businesses, great food, hardened criminals, rogueishly good looking men, seductive gorgeous women, and courtesans. What’s not to love?

A cute elezen I dated a week ago walked past, I winked at her and she smiled. My boots carried their weight into the dirt, holding my stride. I tossed an apple up and caught it as I walked, showing off and bringing attention to myself. In a casual way. I can’t appear to be trying too hard, after all.

My eyes darted between my curled bangs to spot any on-lookers, continuing to walk forward without giving any more attention than was necessary. I’d walked by here often enough to be recognized by most of the merchants and many of the passersby. A few even called my name.

I make an impression.

Stepping into the Chocobo, our family restaurant, all eyes turned onto me. I gave a not-so-subtle grin to myself as I waved to the room, moving into the back while crunching into the apple to get changed into my waitress uniform.

Keira rolled her eyes at me, already in uniform and sighing as I walked in, “You’re late.” “A lady arrives precisely when she means to.” “Yeah and the -girl- is late.” She bit at me, but it didn’t dampen my smile.

“I am certain you are more than capable of handling the few that came in minutes early.”

“Of course but that’s not the point, Alex. You need to be on time. What if there was a rush of customers? What if something stalled me and I couldn’t make it? Silas gave us this home, respect it.”

It was my turn to roll my eyes, leaning in close as I grew more serious. “Keira, for once in your life, stop worrying over every little thing. You’re going to be an old woman in a year.” I placed the small padded box into her hands suddenly.

Keira scowled at me.

Yep. That’s the face. Old woman.

“Alex what’s this? Some sort of stupid prank?” “You wound me.” I answered dramatically, beginning to dress into my uniform.

“Answer me.” She didn’t let up. “Why do you not open it and find out, dear sister?” I put on a mocking tone to counter her, placing a hand on my hip and challenging her.

The redhead gave a disapproving growl and relented enough to open the box, spotting the dangling brass earrings inside. Expensive. Lovely. Thoughtful.

“What is -this-.” And completely unappreciated.

“They are a -gift-.” I answered back, my mock offense turning real.

“You stole them.” The accusation came out harshly.

I finally snapped. “Keira, are you -truly- so miserable you cannot appreciate a gift from your sister after a long day at work and many more to come? We have Silas, yes, but we just lost Father, you lost Zeah, and all we have is each other. Can you not learn to appreciate the good things you do have and stop bitching all the time? I bought them with my own money. We have both been working very hard for weeks.”

I expected the flare up. I expected the fire. It was possible she could explode and take out the building for all I knew. None of that happened. She stared at me, her features softened.

“Alexandra, I..” She began to explain.

I didn’t want any of it. I walked out redressed, fluffing up my hair and greeting the room.

Smile. Stand up straight. Speak as if you are singing. Enjoy the moment.

“Hello everyone! If anyone needs me I am happy to please. Alexandra Rioux, at your lovely service.”

I heard Silas laugh from somewhere behind me. Somewhere between mocking and appreciation.

I’ll take it.

I saw hands go up around the room, and I glided over to assist. Keira walked out, a noticeably fake smile on her face as she took food to a table. The earrings dangled from her ears. They looked good on her.

Job well done, Alexandra.

The truth is, they -were- stolen. Maybe Keira was right, but if it put a smile on my sister’s face, I was particularly proud of this prank.

[aeveriedreams]

#4 - Masks

@sea-wolf-coast-to-coast ‘s FFXIV 30 Day Writing Challenge

Prompt #4: Self-Editing

~Keira Rioux~

I never had to pretend before. When I walked into a room with my head up and my feet firm, it wasn’t an act. I knew exactly who I was, how I felt, and what needed to be said. It angered people a lot, but I didn’t care.

I’ve read books and heard people talk about the ‘mask’ they had to put on for people, it sounded stupid. Just be confident. Own your faults but don’t be ruled by them.

Lately it’s all I’ve been doing. This supremely annoying self-editing where I have to second guess everything I’m about to say, or said.

“Was that too harsh?”

“Was that too revealing?”

“Was that too heartfelt?”

People tell me it’s better for me, that I’m growing and the pain makes the highs that much better. They’re right. This has been the best year of my life and yet, also the worst. I’ve lost myself and found myself. Broken down and reconstituted like some twisted alchemical experiment.

I pushed everyone away and it was easy. I don’t want to do that anymore. It’s better having friends. Another edit.

Yet, some days, Rama or Sil will ask me how I’m doing. Instead of saying everything I want to, a monumental mountain of words, I just say “I’m fine.” And walk away.

Being honest is its own form of editing. The type that has to cut through the last remaining layers I have to protect myself.

The next edit I’ll have is killing this new mask. But what’s left after that? Vulnerability? At what point is it no longer worth it?

I’ve been picking up the shattered pieces of the walls I built up. Maybe it’s time to leave it shattered.

[aeveriedreams]

#13 - Adventure

@sea-wolf-coast-to-coast ‘s FFXIV 30 Day Writing Challenge

Prompt #13: Wounded Animal

WARNING: Violence, blood, death

~Alexandra Rioux~

-Some time ago-

“Alex, no. We’re just going to get what we need and leave.” Keira was her usual no-fun self.

“But we’re so close to the Shroud! Don’t you have any sense of adventure?” I knew she wouldn’t budge but I was still going to bug her about it.

“Not when I’m with you.” She answered coldly.

Wasn’t she made of fire? Why was she such an ice queen?

“That doesn’t make any sense. I’m very adventurous!” I grinned up at her, trying to be as annoying as possible.

Keira let out a long sigh. I knew I had pushed her too much.

We arrived at the Observatorium and I marveled at all the people. It wasn’t exactly the streets of the Jeweled Crozier, but it was more lively than anywhere else I’d been in Coerthas.

“Alex, go have fun. You’re old enough.” Keira gave me a weary smile.

I blinked up at her. I had wanted to win, but I didn’t expect her to let me.

“Really. I can’t keep coddling you. I know.”

Maybe she wasn’t an ice queen.

I pulled her into a hug, which she returned. I left to meet the traveling merchants. Keira walked off to get supplies, and we lost sight of each other. I loved marveling at all the expensive jewelry I would Some day be able to afford. The little trinkets with no practical value. The beautiful dresses.

An hour passed as I went from stall to stall, most people enjoying my exuberance and passion for their work. Then we heard it.

SQUAAAARCK

Wyverns. A flock of them pushed out of their environment and desperate for prey. It’d been happening more and more recently.

I was glad to have my bow. I could help. I was a better shot than Keira now.

They landed and snapping teeth met blades from the brave guards that engaged them. I saw death from both sides, but it didn’t deter me.

I stood up onto the small wall, taking aim.

Brave. Fierce. Like the heroes in your stories. Deep breath. Lead your shot. Release.

The arrow dug into the joint of its wing, exactly where I wanted it. 

Who says age holds you back?

Falling from the sky, the wyvern hit the ground and writhed. Another shot to its throat and it went still. I grinned, hopping down from the wall and going to check on it. The guards had scared off the rest of them, watching them fly away and tending to their wounded.

I had to see the one I killed up close. I was proud of what I’d done. I shot another arrow into its chest just to be safe. Another five minutes passed as I waited to make sure.

Alexandra, the dragon killer. Alright it’s a wyvern, but still I’m awesome!

Approaching it with glee I looked down. It was so much bigger than I was and I killed it. With skill, talent, and grace. I knew that I could do any—

In a flash it moved, and its jaws sunk into my stomach. I screamed. Everything went dark.

-~-~-~-~-~-~

I woke up staring into the cool blue eyes of the most handsome man I’d ever seen. 

Is this what happens when you die? You get to be with cute boys?

No.

I could hear someone crying, I looked to my right and saw my sister, her fiery hair a complete mess as she kneeled beside me. She was covered in blood.

My blood? Hers? Both?

The man gave me a relaxed smile.

“Welcome back.” He had all the poise my sister was lacking. Striking blonde hair, strong features, practical blue robes that still had style. The robes must mean he’s a conjurer. Also the healing aether from his hands touching my stomach. That was probably a dead giveaway.

“Alex? Alex you’re okay? Say something. Anything.” Keira didn’t sound panicked, she was putting on a brave face. She wanted to look strong for her little sister. I knew the truth.

“Shut up, I’m fine.” I tilted my head to her and smirked.

Keira growled and nodded to me, stepping away suddenly. I knew that look.

“You’re going to have to rest. A lot. But you’ll be fine. You’re a tough little girl.” The man’s voice wasn’t exactly comforting, but he sounded heroic. Confident. Did I say he was handsome? He was handsome.

“I’m not a little girl!” I protested, reaching up to fix my hair.

There was a small blast of flames off to our side.

I saw the confusion flash over the man’s face.

“She’s just expressing herself.” I joked to him.

He laughed and stood up. “My work here is done. Good luck.”

Keira ran up to him, heat still washing from her but declining, at least. “What’s your name?”

“Ralidyn. See you around.” He walked off without any further explanation. 

Where had he come from? If I have the power to materialize cute boys, I want to know about it.

Keira watched him walk away before snapping out of it and coming back to my side. Her tears were gone. She was back to her normal self.

“Let’s get you home.” Her voice came out stern. “What were you thinking?”

“That I wanted to slay a dragon?” I quickly changed the subject. “Don’t you want to go talk to him more? I saw that look.” I teased her.

“No, Alex.” She growled. “I want you to be safe.” Her hands came down to pick me up and I slapped them away.

“I’ve got it. I can make it home. You should get a date.” I fought through the pain to push myself to my feet. I could be strong too.

“I don’t care about dating!” She huffed at me, taking my hand in hers and walking away. Our clothes were in shreds but there was nothing for it. Keira picked up the pack she had bought and we headed back home.

I didn’t let it go. “Admit he was cute, at the very least.”

Keira gave a deep sigh, “Yeah, sure. He was. I was much more focused on you not dying and I’m thankful to him for that.”

“Thankful enough you’d give him a ki—“ I grinned wide.

“Shut up! Ugh!” She scoffed at me but I could see her blushing. I had won.

My feet hurt. My chest hurt. My stomach hurt. I felt cold, covered in blood. I’d be in bed for a week if not more.

But it was still a good day.

Alexandra the Wyvern Slayer.

[aeveriedreams]

#10 - Flame

@sea-wolf-coast-to-coast ‘s FFXIV 30 Day Writing Challenge

Prompt #10: Slap

~Keira Rioux~

-A long time ago-

I was with Alexandra in the place I hated the most. We were two early teenage girls trying to shop at a market we didn’t belong at.

The Jeweled Crozier disgusted me. Rich, terrible noblemen and women walked passed the girls that might as well have been wearing rags. We were invisible.

When we talked to the merchants they offered us prices we couldn’t afford.

Why are we here?

I looked to Alex and answered that question. She had a huge smile on her face, marveling at every fancy dress that walked by. Every jewel that was as expensive as everything we owned. Every snooty, awful person that spoke in an obnoxious accent.

None of that mattered to her. She loved it. She asked questions to a woman that walked by and was ignored. She just tried again on the next one, practically bouncing down the lane.

WHUMP

Alex hit the pavement, hard. A nobleman old enough to be our father’s father had shoved her as she came up to him. Old enough to know better.

I was furious. Alex got up like nothing had happened, but the arm of her dress was torn and I saw the scrape; she was bleeding.

“Who the hell do you think you are shoving a girl like that?!” I walked right up to him.

He laughed at me. Fully laughed. He didn’t stop walking.

Heat flared up around me, my fire reacting to my anger. I wanted to kill him.

A hand grabbed my arm, I spun around and grabbed it back. “Don’t touch me!”

It was Alexandra. She screamed as the fire burned her, acting in ‘self-defense’. I was horrified and let go immediately. Everyone in the lane stared at us. I ran.

“Keira WAIT!” Alexandra called after me.

I ran as fast and as far away as I could. I knew the guards would lock me up. They should. I just burned my sister. The one person in the world I love and want to protect, and I hurt her.

The Pillars were a tall, tall place. It was easy to find a place to stand where I’d fall. Embers still flicked off of me, I wasn’t calming. I was so pissed off at myself. I felt like I should cry but I didn’t.

I never cry. There’s nothing inside.

I was a dangerous, hateful girl. Today I burned her, tomorrow, what then? I’m going to accidentally kill someone. It’d be so much easier to rid —

I was pulled back from the edge and a slap hit across my face.

“Are you completely daft?!” Alex was staring back at me, tears in her eyes.

It worked. The fire finally died down. I stared back at her in shock.

“You burned me. So what? Do you really think that matters to me? I can handle myself just as much as you.” Her voice was a girly, squeaky mess.

“Alex, I -hurt- you.” I growled at myself.

“I do -not- care! You’re my sister.” She stepped towards me.

“Alex, no! Don’t! I could hurt you again!” I stepped back.

Alex shoved herself at me and hugged me tightly. I was terrified that she was going to be burned, but she wasn’t. We were both fine.

“I love you.” She mumbled to me.

I stood there stupidly with my arms at my sides, embraced in the hug as my nose brushed into her blonde curls. My arms lifted to return it. I still didn’t cry, even though she was.

“I love you too.” I finally answered her back.

“Let’s go home.” Alex pulled away to look me in the eyes, her own that deep ocean blue. She was actually smiling.

I couldn’t return it. “Yeah. Let’s.”

There were so many things I wanted to say to her and I couldn’t find the words for any of them. Just to prove her point, Alex annoyingly grabbed my hand and held it the whole way back. I didn’t protest it.

[aeveriedreams]

#9 - Essence

@sea-wolf-coast-to-coast ‘s FFXIV 30 Day Writing Challenge

Prompt #9: LinkPearl

~Keira Rioux~

I have a friend. A strange one. I’ve never seen him, or heard his real voice. He’s smart, he can be funny, and he genuinely makes me smile. We can only talk on a Linkpearl.

How much of what makes us ‘us’ is purely our personality? That’s all I have of him. He has a huge crush on me. As someone who is new to dating, it’s pretty cute. In spite of none of those other factors applying, it’s mutual.

He pins it on his job and his work. He’s an information broker and he has to be secretive, for his own safety. I get it, but it makes it difficult to try and learn anything about him.

Your appearance, your voice, how you live, who your family are, how you choose to dress and act, is that all superficial? Is it possible to sustain anything with us just.. talking? I enjoy it, but I don’t think it is.

Goddammit Izzy.

I’m a solitary person. I’m used to the words on a page of a book comforting me. I don’t enjoy the trivialities of conversation anyway. I’d rather get to the heart of the matter. But what do I do about this?

I never cared about dating and in a six-moon period I’ve had a whirlwind of it. It’s tempting to throw it away and give up again. Especially when it feels like it only hurts. It’s weird to feel a pain you’ve never felt until you were almost twenty-two.

But my friends are right. I am growing. I am improving. And I do feel so much more of the positive along with the pain. Maybe it’s worth it to take the chance on him.

Maybe the essence of someone is all you need.

[aeveriedreams]

#30 - Death

@sea-wolf-coast-to-coast ‘s FFXIV 30 Day Writing Challenge

Prompt #30: Frost

~Keira Rioux~

If anyone ever finds me at least they’ll have a laugh.

I had walked into a stone chamber deep underground, searching for a tome written by a Black Mage. I needed whatever I could to fight and save Gadieo.

But, there was a pressure plate I missed and a cage fell around me, jets of flame were coming closer and closer.

I needed to break the cage or block the fire.

-~-~-~-~-~-~

Click!

The candle lit. My hand closed, snuffed out my flame, twisted and pressed out towards the candle as if I wanted to push it. Nothing. The room went dark as I reset the candle.

Ice has always been my worst element. I suppose the reasons are obvious. Every time it rained I felt useless. I didn’t have my fire and I couldn’t use the water. I tried to guard myself against Gad with ice and earned a broken arm.

Click!

The candle lit, and I repeated the motion. Nothing. Reset candle.

It’s not ideal, but…

I walked to the kitchen and filled a bowl with water. I never forget how Coerthas looked that day, when we saw the moon crack and the weather changed forever.

I never wanted anything to do with ice. Ice ruined our lives. My father fell ill and didn’t last. Alex and I had to move. It was the beginning of the end.

Click!

The flame lit, my fingers sank into the bowl of water and swirled it around before raising up and pressing towards the flame. It went out, but only because I splashed it.

It was so difficult to concentrate. It felt like a betrayal of my very essence to make amends with blizzards.

Now I sound crazy.

Aether works like that for me. My fire is fueled by determination and pride, sometimes rage. It’s the core of who I am and ‘we’re’ symbiotic.

How do I do that with its opposite?

All I feel from ice is sadness and death. Fear of the unknown instead of excitement. Pain and heartache over passion and perseverance. Fire was new beginnings and life. Forests burned but only so new life could grow from the ashes.

What has a blizzard ever done for anyone?

Click!

Flame lit. My fingers swirled into the bowl.

Think of Alexandra. Gadieo. Sil. Liam. Vilette. Gegeruza. Izzy. Carry their strength. I’m not alone.

My hand lifted, dripping water, my palm pressed out and a puff of frost put out the flame.

Not much, but it’s a start.

-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~

This is stupid.

I frantically reached for every canteen I had on my person and sat on the floor. The roaring of the flames made it impossible to hear anything else.

The canteens were opened and I spilled them all around me in a circle, trying to make a solid, connected line.

If I was anyone else the flames would be starting to burn me.

“Too close, too close, too close!”

Alex. Gad. Si— I don’t have time!

My hands swirled into the puddles on both sides, picking up water slowly, carefully.

The flames were on me, it had to be now.

I made the water form a rippling, unstable dome around me. It rained onto me as I struggled to hold it still, drenching myself. I focused in the last microsecond that I had and placed my palms flat up onto my new ‘ceiling’.

It froze. Ilm by ilm it spread through the water like a contagion, except it saved my life. The fire roared and hit my dome. It felt like I was facing a dragon. It began to melt and crack. The heat was beginning to seep back in.

I tried. Good luck Alex, wherever you are.

The dome broke and fell apart — and the flames stopped. The jets shifted back to their starting position. They were on a timer and I outlasted it.

I let out a massive sigh of relief as my lips curled into a proud grin.

Take that, Death. I used your element against you.

I jumped to my feet and bounced with adrenaline, my clothes were soaking wet but I didn’t care.

It took me another fifteen minutes to slowly burn the bars of the cage until I could bend them away, but I did, and left the chamber behind.

Now. To find that tome...

[aeveriedreams]

#28 - Passion

@sea-wolf-coast-to-coast ‘s FFXIV 30 Day Writing Challenge

Prompt #28: Rivalry

~Alexandra Rioux~

-Some time ago-

“My heart bleeds in such great sorrow, I wish there were no tomorrow!” My fingers grasped the dagger and drove it into myself, falling onto the wooden floor now stained with my blood. A gasp escaped me, a longing look to all the eyes watching me, before they closed forever.

You were brilliant.

I laid still, silent. My lover rushed to my side and fell to his knees, weeping.

The curtain fell. Applause lifted across the crowd before us.

Lucas, my ‘lover’ and leading man stood up with a grin and held his hand down to me. I eagerly took it and pulled myself to my feet, smiling back. We quickly rushed off stage.

This story was a personal favorite of mine. Young lovers in an arranged marriage each get involved in affairs and must choose between their duties or true love. My character tragically kills herself when she discovers her love chose to be with his wife after all. Alas, his wife still ends up with the other man, and he is left alone. Poetic, if melodramatic.

The curtain raised and our cast mates went out one by one to give their bows, the sounds of applause lifting and falling in time. We were small, only about twelve of us depending on which show we chose to perform.

It came time for the leads. Lucas tugged me out, still partially in character as he wrapped his arms around me and dipped me for a kiss in center stage. It may have been for show but it was real, and I happily returned it. The crowd ignited.

He knew how to play the game.

We took our bows properly together, and then our place in line as we linked hands and gave our final bow. The curtain fell.

Lucas parted from me with a wink and walked off-stage with Catherine, his ‘wife’ in the play and actual girlfriend. I did not feel jealousy over Lucas, but it was difficult not to feel the challenge.

Watching them walk off with a grin, my fingers waggled to wave goodbye. Catherine looked back at me and glared. I had ‘stolen’ this part from her in my audition. Three weeks ago she was the troupe’s leading woman.

I returned backstage to undress and wash the ‘blood’ off of myself, carrying on with my day.

-~-~-~-~-~-~

Our performances continued over the week and I could tell Catherine was becoming more and more resentful. She was smart, stylish, always full of poise, but I could tell. It was the same look I used to see on Keira. Barely contained rage directed towards me stifled with an air of haughty pride from her fierce desire for competition. I must admit I relished in it.

Lucas and I played it up on stage more. Sometimes he initiated -- made a kiss longer, touched me somewhere romantically -- sometimes I did. Either way, I encouraged him. It only helped our performances, truly.

After another such performance, and a few choice words to Lucas after the show, I retired to my tent.

My respite was not long.

“Elizabeth!!” Catherine, my new rival in love, shouted at me from behind.

Perhaps I could have been more tactful.

“We are friends and partners, you may call me Lizzy.” I calmly responded, turning to face her only after I spoke. My lips curled into a smirk, a hand falling to my hip.

“You — You harlot!” She stomped towards me, entering my tent, her chest heaving in her dress.

It was dark, shortly after a performance. Nobody else was nearby but they would be.

“Perhaps we should not make a scene, hm?” My words were honey sweet.

“How -dare- you. He told me what you offered him.” Her beautiful green eyes blazed with that look. Pure passion.

“I offered him no different than I do anyone else I find compelling. I am not blind, and he is handsome.” I was only making her more angry.

It looks good on her.

“He’s -mine-. I don’t want you anywhere near him. This isn’t a contest. You can’t -win- this.” Her finger poked into my chest.

“And how do you suggest I do that on stage every night? Blow him kisses? Unfortunately it is, and I am a sore loser, dar—“

SMACK

She slapped me, hard. My head rang as I turned back to face her, her hands trembling, her gorgeous brunette hair disheveled and messy.

Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

“I have a different solution.” My eyes fell onto hers, focused.

I could get lost in those.

“You don’t have anything I could possibly wa—Mmh!”

I silenced her with a kiss. I took the risk that in spite of her anger she was feeling what I felt. When she returned the kiss I knew I was right.

My back slammed up against my mirror as she pushed me up against it, the kiss heated up explosively. I grabbed her and shoved her back onto my bed, following after.

“I imagine we will call this a tie?” I grinned over her.

Her fingers gripped my hair and pulled me back in.

I love theatre.

[aeveriedreams]

#24 - Hope

@sea-wolf-coast-to-coast ‘s FFXIV 30 Day Writing Challenge

Prompt #24: Standing in Line

~Alexandra Rioux~

-A long time ago-

The Calamity had struck. We struggled for two months before our father succumbed to his illness. We buried him ourselves. Silas, father of the Loraires, had just sent us a letter with his condolences and an offer to stay with him in Ul’dah. We did not have much of a choice, but I thought it sounded fun.

We packed up everything we owned — there was not much — and left on our walk South. Keira took father’s passing hard, not that she showed it. I saw no tears or complaints. The same grumpy frown adorned her face, trying to look stern and powerful. I knew the girl trapped inside screaming at the heavens.

I miss him too. Daddy was my world until Keira. I barely remember Mom.

The show must go on.

We made it as far as the edge of the Shroud, watching other refugees pass us by as we made camp. Keira had not said a word in hours.

She had just lost her best friend too, who ran off to fight with the Flames before the Calamity.

Poor foolish girl. Dying for a cause that would not appreciate what you gave it.

I wanted to help my sister but what could I do? I gave her a smile as I adjusted my dress. Her eyes flickered to me and I saw the fury inside, but it softened for me.

“Keira, can I—“ It was an attempt doomed to failure.

“I’m fine.” She snapped quickly. We both knew that was a blatant falsehood, but I did not press her.

Simply nodding back, I set up my own side of the camp, ready to drift off to sleep.

I hope she can too.

-~-~-~-~-~-~-~

Days passed, mostly filled with each other’s silent company. There seemed to be moderate improvement in the amount of life she had, save that it was spent on burning whatever she safely could. I was not afraid, only concerned.

“Keira, we should be there shortly, do you have plans?” I tried to get her attention, even if the question was inane.

“We help Silas. We get jobs.” The answer was straightforward, said in her clean precise way of speaking when she did not wish to reveal anything of how she felt.

You are not as clever at hiding it as you think, dear sister.

“What would you like to do?”

“It doesn’t matter. We’re going to be waitresses and clean up for him. There’s no choice in it.”

I knew she was right, although I hoped she was not. I wished to be an actress, and Ul’dah was not a terrible beginning for it. Keira should be a scholar, with her love of books and natural intelligence.

I will find a way for us to both have what we want.

“If we pay him for the cost of living, surely we could work however we wish to.”

“He’s taking us in out of kindness and friendship. We’re getting discounted costs -because- we’ll be working for him. I can’t have you running off on me just because you’re obsessed with being famous.” She growled at me.

I can scratch too.

“Ah yes, I forgot we must resign ourselves to misery. Silly me.” I stood tall, refusing to roll over simply because she was mad.

“Alex they’re going to prey on us, you know Ul’dah is a scum pit don’t you? They’re going to try to take you into a brothel!” Her feet fell heavier as we walked across the arid plains of Thanalan.

“Would that be so bad? I think I would enjoy that sort of variety and spice in my life.” I grinned back at her playfully. I had little interest in it, truth be told, but if she was going to be bitchy I was going to annoy her.

“What are you -talking about-! That’s the worst thing that could happen!” I noticed an ember spark from her hand, but paid it no mind.

“Certainly. Removing the stick you have up you and enjoying something for once in your life would ruin your whole image.” My voice was calm and breezy, playing off her easily.

Keira fumed at me and walked on ahead. That conversation was over. Hopefully we were almost there.

-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~

Ul’dah loomed large above us, the large gates threatening to leave us out to die in this dreadful heat. Keira was arguing with the guards at the door, as long lines of frightened people and refugees waited for their chance to be let in.

I saw representations of every race, young and old, crying babies and beautiful women with faces stained from tears and dirt. Keira was angry, again, but she knew better than to threaten authorities with her magic and she fought to keep it at bay. I could see it, but they were unlikely to notice.

My sister returned with a level four frown, nearly her highest.

“We have to wait in line, regardless if we’re starving or kids. Assholes.”

“’Tis only fair, look at everyone else here. Perhaps we could sneak in from a different point in the city.”

Keira’s frown raised to level five.

“We wouldn’t have documentation. They’d throw us out. I thought Silas could have done something for us.”

“He still can. Do not count out opportunities before they are known.”

She rolled her eyes at me, fell into the back of the line onto her pack, unhidden from the sun, and waited.

He did not. We waited the full amount, which ended up being three days. At least on the third day we were mostly shaded by the city walls.

There were sights I always longed to see. The bustling market of Ul’dah was one of them. The Calamity did nothing to break the spirit of trade and desire for coin. Life must go on.

I mentally formed a list of every beautiful dress I would purchase later, grinning at every passerby whose eyes lingered on us. Keira made a beeline through to Silas’ establishment. I did not fight her on it, as much as I wanted to spend the rest of my day in that market street.

A few steps off the main roads lay the Golden Chocobo, a restaurant we knew quite well from the many days we had visited with Daddy. It cannot have looked all that well for the public image as two tired, frustrated and dirty girls stepped in and quickly rushed upstairs. I did all I could to smile and wave. I even blew a kiss to a pretty brunette, something I had been practicing.

Silas was upstairs to greet us and pulled us both into a tight hug. When Keira had lost her best friend, Silas lost his daughter. I felt uncomfortable intruding.

“Thank you a thousand times Mister Loraire. If you do not mind I am going to take a well deserved bath. Keira, I will let you know as soon as you can too.”

Keira nodded at me, “Yeah. Take your time and enjoy it Alexandra.” A smile cracked at her lips, it was only at level one, but the first I had seen on her in a week.

I rushed off to the washroom and did exactly what I intended, falling into a long, hot, comforting bath.

Enjoy the little things, Alex.

[aeveriedreams]

#22 - Hero

@sea-wolf-coast-to-coast ‘s FFXIV 30 Day Writing Challenge

Prompt #22: Monster

Warning: Language, threatening

~Keira Rioux~

-Some time ago-

I usually stay out of other people’s affairs, but sometimes you need to stand up.

“S-Stop! Stop grabbing me asshole!” A miqo’te girl was struggling against a much larger hyur man.

“Allie just -calm down- alright?” He was aggressively moving in on her, holding her arm while she fought back.

“I don’t want to, you can’t make me, I’m not your pet!” The girl kept screaming at him, and he didn’t relent.

“I didn’t say you were, now -quit it-.” He grabbed both of her arms and tugged her closer. “You’re making a scene.”

“Of course I’m making a scene!” Her ears were folded back, her tail fluffed out and straightened.

I had had enough. I stepped up to them, focusing on the man aggressively.

“If the woman told you to let her go, you need to.” My voice was firm.

“Miss, you don’t understand. Stay out of it.” His teeth gritted, glaring back at me.

“Y-yes! Thank you! Stop him he’s.. he’s hurting me!” She pleaded with me.

I moved in and pushed him back. He finally let go of the girl.

“I understand that you’re not listening when a girl is demanding you stop.” I growled back at him.

“Because she’s fucking crazy! I was just —“ He shouted at me, the first time he raised his voice.

“I don’t care.” I clicked my fingers, the flame coming to life as I held it ilms from his face.

I heard the scream but didn’t know what it meant. Then the fist connected with the side of my face. The flame went out and I stumbled away.

Both of them ran off together, getting away from the freak girl with fire in her hands.

She had hit me. Of course she did.

Fucking idiot.

I watched them run off and rubbed at what was surely going to be a black eye. She asked me for help but of course she wouldn’t want me to burn her boyfriend alive. Not that I would have. The fire was just a threat.

You wanted to play hero, but you became the monster.

[aeveriedreams]

#18 - The Game

@sea-wolf-coast-to-coast ‘s FFXIV 30 Day Writing Challenge

Prompt 18: Self-Control

WARNING: Violence, death

~Alexandra Rioux~

-Some time ago-

Stay calm.

I awoke in an infirmary, surrounded by dead, dying, and the sick. It was anything but pleasant. I was undressed and my chest immediately made the wound’s presence known, shooting pain through me. Garlean armor was pressed up against the walls, and there was a doctor in the room with a Garlean uniform.

Why would they capture and save a pirate?

If they wanted me dead, I would be. With that realization safely in hand, I laid back down and allowed myself to relax. In so much as I could possibly relax.

Did Cyn make it out? Certainly not.

I was alone. Truly. No friends. No Keira. Not even allies I could seduce or rely on to be manipulated. Naked, wounded, and inside a Garlean facility was about the lowest place I could possibly be.

But I am not dead.

My hands inspected myself, stitched up wounds. They had taken the time to keep me alive.

I always knew I was important, but how do they know that?

Another hour passed before a doctor came to explain the situation. She expected me to make a full recovery, and I would be processed after I could stand. That was the only way to move forward. I could attempt a daring, brave escape, but if I was not killed I would still be alone in a completely foreign place.

You were born to play the game. Play it.

I had to be smart. This was not about strength, or even skill. It was cunning. The real test of everything I have always admired about myself.

Here we go.

-~-~-~-~-~

A couple weeks went by and I was doing much better. Clothed simply in the mediocre and awful garb they gave to patients, able to eat, drink, walk and function. If push came to shove I could even fight.

Play the game.

They handcuffed and blindfolded me. Soldiers walked me to another room. I had no idea what it was about. They told me I had aether, and before I knew it I was dropped into a pit.

Aether? That was my sister, not me.

Another man, about my age and scraggly, bearded and unshaved. Just as unarmed as I was. So that was what was to be.

Play the game.

“Kill.” The command came from above us. It was clear.

I did not want to, but I was certainly capable of it. I took in a long breath. Lightning crackled from the man in front of me. His aether.

I could not get anywhere near him. Every time I tried another shock burst out, surging through me before I could back away. Normally I would have a bow. Or a gun. Or a dagger.

Hell I would take a rock.

I concentrated. I focused myself to think. To plan.

What do I wish to do to him?

Another shock shook me out of my concentration and I fell back, scrabbling away. I tried to give a weak kick and was shocked again. I tried to focus. He shocked me again. I couldn’t stop him.

I looked around the pit, my hair frazzled and standing on end, my muscles starting to fail me from the pain.

\She needs to die so I can live! She has to!\

What?

What were those words?

\She has to, she has to, she has to! I’m sorry, I’m so sorry, sorry.. Sorry..\

Creepy.

He was scared. Vulnerable. I tried to speak, to plead.

“Please, the Garleans are the real enemy. I’m just.. I’m just a -girl-!” My voice came out panicked. My eyes teared up.

He shook. His eyes trembled. He faltered.

My fist connected with his nose, and he dropped, shouting. Before he could zap me again I drove my foot down onto his neck.

Play the game.

The man trembled on the dirt. I frowned down at him.

BANG

An infernal Garlean shot rang out, silencing the man forever.

I won.

Without any explanation or words, I was handcuffed, blindfolded, and guided back to my bed. The door was locked to keep me in. I fell into my bed.

Did I read his thoughts?

-~-~-~-~-~-~

Over the next couple of days they asked me a hundred questions. They wanted to know everything about what I had experienced with myself and in that fight.

Tell the truth.

Once I revealed I heard the man’s thoughts and used that against him they stopped. That must have been the answer they were looking for.

Another day, another blindfolded walk to a new room. This time the blindfold stayed on me, and the handcuffs.

“What is my name?” Came a voice from the darkness.

“Jonathan.” I answered smugly, as if I would know.

What must have been a boot impacted with my stomach, I coughed and caught my breath.

“What is my name?”

“Ashley. You strike me as an Ashley.” What did they expect?

His fist hit my cheek. I spat out blood.

“What is my name?”

\Frederick\

“Frederick.” I said the first name that came to mind, just as I did before.

I braced myself for another hit, but it didn’t come.

“You have exactly two choices. You must make the decision now.”

“Is one of the choices breakfast? I am famished.”

“You can put that smart mouth to use and work for me. Or you can die. What do you say?” He ripped the blindfold off my face.

Dark hair, hardened features, but handsome. Surprisingly so, since Garleans had never been my type. He looked capable but he was the opposite of a brute, standing tall and a little gangly.

It was hardly a choice at all. I suppose it was to be expected.

Play the game.

“‘Tis a pleasure to meet you, darling. Alexandra Rioux, at your service.” I grinned, fluttering my eyelashes at him.

[aeveriedreams]

#17 - Entwined

@sea-wolf-coast-to-coast ‘s FFXIV 30 Day Writing Challenge

Prompt #17: Fate

WARNING: Language

~Keira Rioux~

Fate is bullshit.

It can’t exist. It doesn’t make sense. But how does that idiot keep popping in and out of my life? For better or worse, my life keeps crashing back into his regardless of whether events are entirely unrelated or not.

When we met nearly a year ago, it was a chance meeting at the library. We both wanted the same book. Was it chance? Or did he seek me out? Did he know that I could help him, and he could use me to get what he wanted?

We traveled together, we fought together, but he left for weeks at a time. He came and went like a tornado and every single time I was wrapped up into it.

Why?

Why does he have that power over me? Why do I feel compelled to drop whatever I’m doing and run off with him as soon as he appears? I don’t do that for anybody else. He’s so frustrating and I’m angry nearly every second I’m with him. But I do it anyway.

Everyone I talk to tells me he doesn’t matter. That I shouldn’t care or worry about him, that I shouldn’t let him get to me or wrap me up into all of his messes. I don’t listen to them. I had no idea what I wanted to do with myself after Alex left. I just worked and survived and trained my skills.

Gadieo gave me a purpose again.

That’s what it is. He showed up and in that whirlwind I discovered what it is I wanted. What actually made me happy, rather than what just kept me alive. He’s an asshole half the time and yet I can’t shake that. I can’t just discard him.

He discarded me. 

We couldn’t be partners anymore. He didn’t want me to get involved in his messes. He didn’t allow me to make my own choice, to join him.

What the hell could be more important than I am?

Now he’s back. A storm of chaos when I was spending time with people entirely unrelated to him. And working with Garleans. Against us. How could he? He claimed to still be partners.

Betrayer. Abandoner. Liar.

Today was my nameday and his gift to me was a broken arm, from our fight. Not that knowing that would have stopped him. How dare he?

That girl. The one that looked like him.

It’s her. The girl I saw captured by the Garleans. Stolen away and used against him. He’s stuck. Trapped. It’s not his choice.

I need to know who she is. I need to find her.

She’s the key. If she’s safe, Gadieo can be himself again. He refuses to accept my help, but he doesn’t have a fucking choice about that either.

How much free will do we have? Are we bound by Fate?

Who cares. The answer doesn’t matter. If this whirlwind is going to keep swallowing me up whether I like it or not, I’m going to fight it. I’m going to stop it.

See you soon, Gadieo.

[aeveriedreams]

#15 - What if?

@sea-wolf-coast-to-coast ‘s FFXIV 30 Day Writing Challenge

Prompt #15: Doppelganger

~Keira Rioux~

There is a game I play sometimes.

What if I never met Alex that day?

I would have continued living in the Brume. I would have been more and more bitter. Hateful. Angry. I’d been putting thought into it because of the Ala Mhigans and the Skulls. If Garleans invaded Ishgard instead, if they recruited me as a child and offered to give me a life. I would have taken it.

A chance to fight back against the oppression and injustice that every disgusting rich person that lived in their ivory towers had caused. Nothing would have stopped me from becoming a killer, loyal to the people who saved me from my horrible mother and what she had thrown me into.

I wouldn’t have known the difference between the bad ones and the good. I could have killed Ramona’s parents. Or fought Vilette. I can barely stop myself from hating Ishgardians now. If I had no reason to think otherwise, why would they be human to me? They certainly never humanized me.

How much free will do we have? Are we slaves to what we’re born into, or how lucky we are?

I’m glad none of those things came to pass, but I still feel them in me. A dark doppelgänger threatening to take control. My friends have done so much for me. But I need Alexandra back.