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preciouslandmermaid · 3 months ago

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of songbirds, swords, and spice (6)

pairing: Opla!Zoro x Opla!Sanji x Fem! Reader (no use of Y/N or L/N)

tw/cw: violence/blood/mentions of slavery/threats of violence against children/mentions/implications of past abuse note: haven't written them in forever so it all feels ooc but i literally wrote this nonstop for 2 hours so...im sorry if its delirious xoxo

🏴‍☠️ read on AO3 🏴‍☠️

(masterpost)

<- (previous chapter)

Your heart swelled as Nightingale port came into view and your grip tightened around the warm, wooden railing. Nothing tasted sweeter than the fresh, briny air of home. Home, you smiled to yourself, I never thought I’d have one of those after being on the run for nine years. Your settlement in Nightingale was almost at its fifth anniversary, and with Estella’s treasure in your hands, you allowed yourself the tentative hope you’d reach the tenth anniversary someday.

Luffy fell into place beside you and said, “I can’t wait to see what Sanji cooks to celebrate.”

Your lips twitched upward and the memory of the night before lingered like warm rice wine in your veins. Sanji, asking for your favorite dish, promising to find a way to make it, and asking if you’d ever dream of staying aboard the Going Merry. Could you? More importantly, did you want to? Nami’s thoughtful, empathetic expression in the pale moonlight, her hair pastel, her eyes glimmering. Zoro smirking and calling you out for your selfless actions within the cavern. Luffy’s bright and magnetic presence. Usopp, laughing and playing with the children.

Wait. What were you thinking? You couldn’t leave Estella. You promised yourself that you’d remain by her side. She needed you. You forced your cramping fingers to relax on the railing.

“Luffy?” You swallowed.

Luffy stood with his hands interlaced behind his neck. “Uh, yeah?”

“What if you don’t become King of the Pirates? What will you do?”

You glanced at him. His dark brows furrowed as sunlight dappled through the straw hat’s weave, creating a myriad of light-born freckles on his forehead.

“Keep trying,” he finally answered with a loose shrug.

The pragmatic in you couldn’t help it – you said, “What if you die?”

Would he seriously spend his entire life trying to become King of the Pirates? Would he die for his dream? His expression softened.

“That’s kind of a morbid thought, don’t you think? He smiled. “Anyway.” He gestured to the island. “We have a delivery to make!”

“I’m home!” You called, gently dropping Mimi onto the shiny floors, and watching her prance away toward one of the side rooms. At the continued silence, you glanced back at the Straw Hats in the entryway and yelled louder, “Grandma! We’re back!”

“Uh—” Usopp peered his head around the doorframe. “Maybe she stepped out?”

“Something’s off,” you said, a trickle of sweat slid down your spine. You heard the telltale creak of Zoro gripping the handle of his blade and Sanji fell into step behind you. The harsh, white daylight poured into the main foyer in a stark rectangle silhouetted by your shadows.

BAM! The front door slammed shut. Usopp released a quick, startled scream.

Estella’s wheelchair emerged from around the corner. Your eyes jerked from her tear-stained face to the man pushing her and your lungs threatened to capsize.

“No,” you said thickly.

A tall, late middle-aged man wore a thin, drooping mustache, and his narrow lips twisted into a smarmy, self-absorbed smirk. A golden wasp brooch was pinned to the lapel of his shiny, velvety plum suit. Your mouth thickened with saliva. No, no, no. Not you.

“Nine years,” he drawled. He narrowed an eye at you, as his other eye was covered by an eye patch.

The nearby shadows moved and his men, his enforcers – his goons – slowly encircled your group, glaring, their clubs and swords brandished. Your fingers twitched. Could you use your kusarigama in time? Could you reach Estella? You needed to save her.

Clover’s distraught voice came from the top of the stairs, “Big sister!” The unknown man who held Clover in his arms pressed a knife too close to her small throat.

A flare of protectiveness ignited in your heart. “Don’t you dare touch her,” you snarled. You knew this cretin – this piece of shit, scum at the bottom of the ocean – because he was the source of your torment as a child. He was your jailer and your cage. And you knew that he wasn’t above hurting children. Clover, little Aiden, Utakuro, Ann, and Badger were all in danger.

He was Victor Wasp – an entrepreneur of great renown in specific, vile circles.

Luffy raised his fists. “Let them go!”

“Picking on elderly women and children,” Sanji said and ‘tsked’ under his breath.

Zoro chimed in, “Pathetic.”

“Nine years,” Victor continued as if none of the Straw Hats had spoken. “I’ve spent searching for you. It’s time to come home, sweet plum.” His smile was cruel.

Fuck. What were you doing?! You weren’t powerless. You weren’t a scared little kid anymore. Your skull filled with Clover’s hiccuped cries from the staircase landing. You opened your mouth. You would scream. You would sing. You would do whatever was necessary to save them.

The barrel of a gun pressed into Estella’s temple.

“Mouth shut!” Victor snapped and your teeth clicked together.

Estella cried your name. “Run,” she pleaded, “go, please!”

“I’m not leaving you.” Your throat prickled.

“Let’s not make this so dramatic,” said Victor, “it’s time for you to come home. Come home and come quietly and I’ll let everyone in the town live.”

The floor swayed beneath your feet. The town? You had to have misheard him. You opened your mouth to ask, but Zoro beat you to it.

“What the hell are you yammering about?” he asked, his tone contemptuous.

“What?” Victor laughed. “Did you think I wasn’t planning this for weeks in advance?” He clicked his tongue twice and one of his enforcers, wearing an all-black suit like the rest, wiggled a stick of dynamite in his hand. You should’ve expected that Victor Wasp would have multiple backup plans. He’d watch the whole town burn before losing his merchandise. But he had lost you, you reminded yourself, nine years you’ve been free of him. You exhaled shakily through your nostrils. That freedom had been an illusion, though. Those moments of joy, of friendship and…You thought of Sanji helping you cook, his lithe body moving through the fragrant haze of steam,...and connection, they had all been temporary. A balm to delay the inevitable.

You swallowed with difficulty. He found me. He’ll take me back.

“She’s not coming with you,” Luffy shouted, “and we’re not going to let you blow the town up!”

The Straw Hats tensed around you – preparing themselves for an all-out battle. No. No. You weren’t going to let them get hurt or killed on account of your past mistakes. Nothing else mattered but the seven-year-old girl upstairs crying for her ‘big sister’ to save her.

You placed your hand on Luffy’s wrist. “Luffy, it’s my choice, right?”

“Huh?”

“If you make me stay,” you said, “if you make me fight alongside you, then you’re taking away my choice, and you’re no better than him.”

His dark brown eyes squinted in confusion, then were cleared by a sudden understanding. Your breath caught. His capability for quick empathy was honestly disconcerting.

“You sure? We could take him on just like we took out that spider-lady,” he said with an encouraging grin.

“What are you doing?” hissed Nami.

Usopp whispered, “She’s taking the diplomatic route!”

You nodded. “If it’s my life over theirs, then I’m choosing them. There’s no question.”

Luffy lowered his fists and the rest of his crew followed his lead, but they didn’t look happy. Except for Usopp, he looked relieved.

“Make it a clean break,” said Victor, “you know how I hate a mess and my boys can handle it.”

Between the lines, you understood what Victor was asking. He wanted you to use your devil fruit power to knock everyone out so that he, his team, and you could leave without any risk of interference. A foggy cloud of suspicion and confusion fell over the Straw Hats and they looked to you for guidance. You blinked back your tears. After this, whatever budding trust existed between you would be reduced to ash.

“Don’t fight him, Luffy,” you reminded him.

“How about me?” Zoro asked, one hand on the hilt of his sword, “Can I fight him?”

“No!” You removed Pandora's box from your bag. “I’m not letting anyone die for me.” You passed the box to Luffy, who still looked incredibly confused and concerned. “I appreciate everything you’ve done for me, for Estella, for Nightingale.”

Your melodic voice spilled from your lungs. An old song. It was a lullaby you used to sing during thunderstorms to help little Aiden fall asleep. Zoro clamped his hands over his ears, glaring at you, as the rest of the Straw Hats – except for Luffy being immune – collapsed to the floorboards like a sack of turnips. As you expected, Victor’s bodyguards remained standing, and you guessed they were prepared with earplugs like the staff at the ‘golden cupid’.

Zoro held your gaze. He didn’t know fuck-all about what was happening, but he knew trouble when he saw it, and that prick in the purple suit? That asshole was trouble. And worse of all, you were choosing to go with him. Didn’t you trust them? Didn’t you trust Luffy? What about him? He saved your life, didn’t he? Zoro’s jaw ached from clenching his teeth. Your song ended once you stood beside Estella, your eyes shone bright with unshed tears. Dammit!

“Make sure they stay put,” the asshole said with a lackadaisical wave of his hand.

Someone grabbed Zoro’s arms and tried to pin them to his sides. He shouted his indignation and bodily shouldered the assailant away.

He shouted your name, running forward, because like hell he was going to let you just run off like that. He remembered what happened when Nami ‘ran off’. He wasn’t going to let it happen again. You might not be part of the crew, but you didn’t let go of Luffy’s hand, and that counted for something. He didn’t know what it counted for, he just knew it counted, and dammit—where the hell was he!? He spun in a half-circle. He thought he was following you.

“Zoro,” Luffy called to his back and Zoro skidded to a stop. His heart drummed inside his chest and pounded through his fingertips.

“Let her go,” he said.

“Are you serious?”

He nodded. “We can’t risk the whole town. She wouldn’t want that.” He gestured behind him to where Estella was asleep in her chair. “Estella wouldn’t want that.”

“An asshole like him was probably lying,” Zoro bit out.

He patted Zoro’s shoulder. “Don’t worry, we’ll track him down and bring her back.”

Zoro grumbled.

Sanji awoke with his face pressed into the carpet. He mumbled incoherently and dragged a hand through his hair. It was a restful, but confusing little nap. Hadn’t they all been moments away from a fight? The world blinked into focus as soft, whimpering cries surrounded him.

Crying for me? He wondered before lucidity grasped him and the memories rapidly filtered through. No, they’re crying for their songbird.

Estella wept, clutching the Pandora's box in her wrinkly, weathered hands. “I’ve gained one treasure and lost another,” she said.

Sanji slowly rose to his knees. Clover sat on the floor by Estella’s chair in Nami’s lap, with her long ebony hair neatly braided, though her face was red and sticky with snot and tears. Zoro leaned against the wall, arms crossed, scowling straight ahead. He recalled his haze at the golden cupid after the beautiful voice swept all his worries away and carried him off into a sweet, honey-dipped melody. There was something different about you. Something strange. You sang and...everyone disappeared? Everyone, except for Zoro and Luffy, looked dazed and bleary-eyed.

“Madam Estella,” Sanji's voice was hoarse, “what happened?”

“Her voice is her greatest weapon,” she said, then looked at Luffy. “It doesn’t work on other devil fruit eaters.”

“She puts people to sleep with her voice,” Zoro guessed.

“Among other things,” Estella said, her voice high and wobbly with grief.

Nami asked, “Who was that guy with the wasp brooch?”

Unfortunately, Sanji could guess – perhaps not the man’s name, but his occupation. He spoke to you like you were his property and Sanji hated him instantly. A low-life scum who threatened women and children? Sanji wished he could’ve had the chance to kick his teeth in.

The older woman shifted uncomfortably in her chair. “He was our employer,” her tone was stiff, “never got paid for a single honest day’s work.”

“You were slaves.”

“Quick girl, aren’t you?” Estella glanced meaningfully at Nami’s tattoo. She sighed, smoothing her knobby fingers over the ivory box, and said, “We were slaves until she ate the fruit and we escaped together. I should have known Victor wouldn’t give up. This is my fault. I shouldn’t have let us settle here…”

Luffy said, “It’s not your fault.”

“I will tell you our tale and you can be the judge of that, young pirate,” replied Estella.

“Victor was a man with a mean tongue and a meaner hand. He often complained of headaches, so all of his staff was commanded to be as silent as possible. You either memorized creaky floorboards or you were locked out of the house and kept in the doghouse for three nights.”

You stared up at the flags of Victor’s ship. It was a tacky design, of course, with his big hornet motif. One of his goons shoved you in the middle of your shoulder blades. You tossed a glare over your shoulder and bit into the damp gag in your mouth.

“I caught her in the study. Her face was covered in juice, and I knew at once what she had done.”

The floorboards creaked as you mounted the plank and you flinched with every groan of the great ship pulling against the ropes. The day started with hope and it would end in terror.

“She buried the box in the yard but came back to check to see if she missed anything. I yelled at her to get cleaned up before Mr. Wasp came home.”

Another one of Victor’s goons approached you, carrying a wooden pail, and you braced as the cold, sharp saltwater was dumped over your head. You blinked your eyes and glared at Victor through the blur of salty, barbed tears.

“And came home he did. The staff was questioned. He was meticulous about his things, you see. He kept a catalog of every pen, every bullet casing, and every spare berry. There was no escaping his scrutiny. He lined us all up.”

Your breath shuddered unevenly. Another bucket of water sluiced down your face and saturated your clothes. It was overkill, but it proved how nervous Victor was, and how he both despised and desired the power of your voice in equal measure.

“I lied for her. I said Victor’s son, Teddy, stole things from the study all the time to pay off his gambling debts. But, Victor didn’t believe me. He began to...to beat me in front of everyone. And my baby songbird, she opened her mouth, and screamed, and everything – everything shattered.”

Your legs kicked uselessly as they lifted you from beneath your armpits and carried you into the brig. You whipped your head back, intent on keeping Victor in your sights, and shouted muffled curses and profanities against the gag.

“Glass everywhere. Everyone screaming and clutching their ears. I couldn’t hear the words he said to her, but I saw the fear on her face, and I saw the hunger in his eyes and I knew – I knew that if I did nothing – I knew that – that – that he’d hurt her.”

BAM! Your shoulder and forehead sang with pain as they connected sharply with the wood. A flurry of stars danced in front of your vision. Your wet cheek pressed into the floor as you turned your head and peered through the iron bars at Victor’s feet. He crouched to meet your eyes.

“He is missing an eye because I took the nearest piece of glass – or pottery – or something else, I don’t know – and I struck him with it.”

Victor wordlessly lifted his eye patch to show you the scattered, mosaic scars that sealed his eyelid closed. A swell of bile surged in your throat at the memory of Estella’s bloody, slick fingers clinging to yours. He lowered the patch and stood upright, smiling.

Estella dabbed her eyes. “I took her hand and we’ve spent five years on the run, looking over our shoulders, until we found Nightingale. It was stupid for us to stay. I see that now. And now she’ll be punished for my folly.”

Sanji said quickly, “We have to save her.” He could read between the lines of Estella’s story. Victor wanted a return on his investment and wanted revenge for your actions nine years ago. There was no telling what he might do.

Zoro glared at him. “Calm down, cook. She’s not some damsel in distress waiting for a knight in shining armor.”

He glared back. “You’re not the knight in this scenario. Obviously.”

“We are going to save her,” Luffy said, stopping their argument before it began earnestly. “Tell us where they’re going and we’ll catch up to them.”

“Why?” Estella blinked.

“Because we’re pirates,” he replied simply. Her wrinkled face crumpled, deepening the lines around her mouth and eyes, before a fresh onslaught of sobs racked her frame. Sanji grabbed her soft, weathered hand.

He said, “Madam Estella, tell us everything you remember about Victor.” He gave her palm a gentle squeeze. “It’ll hopefully give us an advantage in the fight ahead.”

“We don’t need any advantages,” Zoro said, “if I stab him, he’ll bleed.”

“We haven’t seen him bleed yet,” said Usopp quietly.

#fic: songbirds swords and spice #one piece fanfiction #reader insert #zoro x reader #zoro roronoa x reader #sanji x reader #vinsmoke sanji x reader #zoro x sanji #poly fic #zoro x sanji x reader #opla fanfic #one piece live action fanfic #zoro x you #sanji x you #one piece reader insert

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stellarcn · 2 years ago

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Stelle be like:

youtube

actual image of Angel giving the Star Rail MC a bath after they go dumpster diving

Angel : ♪~♪~♪~♪~♪~♪ the MC: THE BETRAYAL, I WANT TO SPEAK TO THE MANAGER I CANT GIRLBOSS LIKE THIS, KAFKA SAVE ME,VENGENCE!

#ooc ; relaxing aboard the express #( I'm sorry I had to add onto this jkdfgh )#Youtube

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mrs-pissoff · 5 years ago

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Your eyes (Reader x Thane)

(the title is pretty much a placeholder because I have no idea what else to call this lmao) 3rd person POV, Reader is referred to as she/her

A/N: So first of all, I usually don't know what the unholy crap I'm doing when it comes to writing. I'm also not a native English speaker. There may be a part 2 coming but I can't promise cuz once I do promise something it's surely not going to happen, ever. Nonetheless, please enjoy.

Introduction: You're whoever you are, and you've joined Shepard's crew aboard the SR-2 to stop the Collectors. You've become something of a close friend to Commander Shepard and may have caught spicy spicy feelings for them. Unfortunately for you, Shepard has eyes for a certain turian vigilante, but hey, this story isn't about them. It's about you and our favorite assassin.

Disclaimer: Mass Effect and its characters belong to Bioware.

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An unusual stillness fell over the empty kitchen of the SR-2. The crew were all tucked away in their chambers, resting or talking about the day’s events. Even the lights of the Med Bay were dimmed, indicating that not even Dr. Chakwas was at her station.

She was glad no one could see her in such a state. Puffy eyes, hair and clothes in complete disarray. A mess, really. She didn’t need the looks of pity or the unnecessary and painful question ‘What’s wrong?’. No. She only needed a glass of cold water and some time. Some time to sort things out. Alone. That part was easy at least, since she thought no one knew how she felt. She kept it hidden, locked away. Out of sight, out of mind. Except when the feelings would resurface violently and erupt like a volcano. Like right now.

Head bowed and quietly sobbing into the sink, both hands resting beside the edges of it, she doesn't hear the silent footsteps approaching her. Too preoccupied with her spiraling thoughts of Shepard and her own confusing feelings. The footsteps of the cautiously approaching Thane Krios cease, as he stands frozen in place. The woman before him is the one that judged him for all his wrongdoings the day he stopped his son from stepping on the path of sin. Her once fiery gaze was now drowned in tears, head hung low and heavy with sorrow.

She's been feeling on edge lately, making careful but not very covert snide remarks to Garrus Vakarian and politely pushing away everyone who questioned her sour mood. She only smiled when Shepard asked, the storm clouds hanging over her head evaporating at the sight of the Commander as her face relaxed. And with a beaming gaze and the hint of a smile, she'd tell Shepard how everything was fine and she just needed some rest. That a nap would fix her up. A white lie to avoid worrying the Commander. He saw how her eyes lost their spark and how her legs would carry her around the ship without purpose. Only in battle she seemed alive. A raging whirlwind sweeping through enemies. A most unsettling change in behavior. He knew the reason behind it all.

Suddenly becoming painfully aware of his presence, her head shot up and a startled gasp left her lips. She pushed herself away from the sink in a swift motion and turned her gaze away from him, wiping the tears from her face. Desperately trying to make it seem like they weren't there to begin with.

"Damn, you're quiet. You should make more noise or you’ll give someone a heart attack."

Her tone had a slight bite to it and an uncertain shake she tried to mask. He could still hear it though. This was a moment of weakness she wished no one would witness. Much less him. He knew what she thought about him. She called him a gutless coward and a poor excuse of a father while still wishing him success to save his son, though not for his own sake, but simply because Kolyat deserved better. He had to agree with her, he told himself all of these things and more. It was nothing new. And yet, hearing someone else utter those words aloud cut even deeper. The look she gave him that day sent a jolt of shock down his spine. Her eyes filled with scorching ire, blame and so, so many questions. He felt small even if he was standing taller than her. Even though her mind seemed occupied and uncertain at the moment, he could still sense that she'd have preferred anyone but him finding her like this.

"Are you feeling unwell?"

Of course she did, he thought, but the words left his mouth before he could rephrase the question.

"No."

Her reply came almost too quickly as she washed her tear-stained hands and turned around, ready to leave without drying them. He knew she carried a great many burdens, and not all of them her own. She was much like him, and didn't leave her room frequently to socialize with others, but he knew that Shepard visited her just like the rest of them. Shepard always made sure to check on everyone, to talk to them and ease their solitude, but sometimes people forgot to do the same for the Commander. She didn't. She told him and Vakarian that Shepard had a tendency to hold onto everything, and rather than adding to Shepard's emotional cargo further, she preferred to ask and listen to everything the Commander had to say. No doubt a roundabout way of telling the two to do the same every once in a while. He wondered whether she herself shared her thoughts with anyone.

"If you need someone to talk to-" but he couldn't finish. She looked back at him and began speaking quietly, her tone now withdrawn and empty.

"Perhaps you should focus your energy on your son to make things right, and mind your own business. I'll do the same as well." Ah, he knew she'd push away, but he still had to ask. He wished she'd at least talk to Shepard, but knew that she won't.

"Sometimes strength isn't about holding our emotions at bay, but sharing our weakness with others, however difficult it may be." His words seemed to catch her attention as she raised one eyebrow at him questioningly.

"True, but I don't see why you would bother."

Her statement was expected. They weren't on the friendliest terms after all. Of course there was no ongoing animosity between them, she simply voiced her opinion of him and they never talked about it anymore. Few words were exchanged between them even before Kolyat's attempt at assassination - aside from the usual pleasantries that is - , even less afterwards. He was aware of her presence and they passed each other aboard the Normandy more than once, but neither spared as much as a second glance. Both too lost in their own thoughts to notice the other. That was until he was caught in her eyes like a trapped varren, desperate to escape. He felt as if he was standing underneath a spotlight, all of his shame on display for everyone to see. It was then and there, where he truly saw her for the first time and began paying more attention to her unconsciously.

On rare occasions when she was having her meals at the same time he was, he'd find himself observing her closely, listening to her talking with others. He'd seen the pang of jealousy in her eyes as Garrus recalled all the time he spent with Shepard years ago and when he would ask specific things about human relationships once he and the Commander became closer. She would deflect his clumsy questions half-heartedly and leave shortly after, her initial friendly disposition towards the turian dissipated and a polite tolerance took its place. Garrus was none the wiser to see this change, such nuance seemed to be lost on him. Perhaps that was for the better. She couldn't blame either of them for falling for each other. Garrus has been there for Shepard for far longer than her.

During shuttle rides Thane could see how she tried to be casual and disciplined while Shepard spoke, careful to contain herself and not let anything slip even if her eyes had a playful and longing glint to them.

He came to adore those eyes. They told him everything she was hiding so carefully. The eyes truly were a window to the soul.

Sometimes he was also lucky enough to catch her in a conversation where she voiced her point of view on certain things, mostly concerning Cerberus whom she did not trust in the slightest. A sentiment many other squadmates shared. Surprisingly, she didn't let her negative opinion extend to Miranda and Jacob, or the rest of the crew wearing Cerberus colors. Short and reserved debates between them were apparently not uncommon. On her better days he could even hear her joking about with Zaeed and Jack. A wide and playful smile spreading on her face with every witty little comment she shared with them.

He's never realized just how aware of her he was until now. He wanted to let her know, but-

"You intrigue me."

The words escaped him once more.

His body tensed as he watched her carefully. Her eyes found the floor as a thoughtful expression crossed her face. She seemed unsure and deep in thought, and he began to wonder whether it was a mistake to speak his mind. A few agonizing seconds later she met his eyes again seemingly ready to respond, but deciding against it in the end. She gave him one last incredulous look before turning around and heading for the elevator without a word, leaving him in the dimly lit kitchen.

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So, here. I hope it was enjoyable? I honestly don’t know how to write Thane so he may be severly OOC. Hopefully not.

It’s just that I’ve been adding more dialogues to the custom Thane follower I have in Skyrim and I got inspired so I was like ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ whatever, I’ll post it.

And I already have another scenario running in my head. A possible continuation to this, but this thing took me the better half of today to write. We’ll see. Feel free to let me know what you think.

#mass effect #mass effect 2 #Thane Krios #Reader x Thane #also i want to slap anyone who's ever called Thane daddy on tumblr #cuz in the introduction i almost wrote #'our favorite sinful daddy'#instead of favorite assassin #and i never wanted to fling myself off a cliff so much #so thanks for that lmao

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progeny-of-the-fury · 7 years ago

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Journey to the Twelve: Llymlaen, the Navigator

Log date: 8/14/17

OOC Note: The text in these logs are strictly for the readers enjoyment. Anyone using the knowledge displayed within this text without the participants knowledge risks the potential of blacklisting from future communication and roleplay. Please do not meta-game!

Tags: @thehawu

The trip across Eorzea was one long in the making.

I had asked that Lord Parlemaix accompany me on this journey, as I presumed a Lieutenant of the Adders would be well versed with the lay of the land. I seemed to brood some in worry as well. Having invited Lenny in excitement over his desire to learn more of our gods, only to be shortly bestowed upon the traditional expectation of such a pilgrimage to each stone. To say I felt foolhardy would be an understatement, secretly I hoped my invitation had not been misconstrued. Countess De’bayle seemed rather against the excursion altogether, worried over my still tender and healing wounds inflicted on me during the campaign in Gyr Abania. I had taken matters into my own hands to make their healing process swifter, my drive to learn of this land far out-weighing my concern for an injury that in time will find its mends. While the woman's concern was appreciated, for my own good, I needed to dismiss them. I have lived this long without their presence, what more is a fortnight or two?

Still, the idea of leaving her alone brought me no great pleasure, I was fully aware of her lonely state. I would have plenty stories and trinkets to return to her, while she handles the dealings with the House in the Counts absence. I know full well what duties entail. As for myself, I had belongings to be put away into storage, and a map to prepare...

Faithful Navigator, help us to see where our hearts lie. Lead us toward true divinity, so that we may find comfort in knowing our rightful place within your Halls. Grant me the virtue to shepard as you do.

Adelise De'bayle was standing at the counter, conversing with Madame Celeste over more than likely the keeping of anything important in her time away. Strapped to her ready side was a rather thick bag, more than likely carrying her belongs for this escapade. In her hand, a decently sized rolled parchment was held tightly to her chest. "Please make sure nothing happens to it, it is very expensive," she huffs out in irritation, adjusting her baggage some.

Siovant Parlemaix passes quietly into the house, having come looking for the young Adelise. The eve of their trip was nigh, and he was all packed. "Dawdling, Adelise?" He inquired in the lofty tones of one who was just barely more prepared than his peers. Weight shifts from heel to heel, watching the young woman with golden hues.

Adelise De'bayle tossing her head in the man's direction, her braid thwapping at her back, Adelise scowled slightly, "there you are. Lord Parlemaix, I have been meaning to bring something to your attention," she huffs, nodding toward Celeste before stepping away to approach him. "Lenny wishes to drop in for portions of our trip, wanting to learn of the different patrons himself. I told him I would ask your thoughts on it all first," she eyes him, some awaiting his response.

Siovant Parlemaix furls his ebon brows in some manner of confusion, at first looking as though he didn't quite understand. One of his palms rested atop the considerable grimoire that hung from his hip, "You were the organizer of this trek." He asserts, "You're welcome to bring whoever you so desire." He'd note, cocking his hip to one side. "Will he be joining us today? Or was he merely going to drop in from the middle of the wilderness?"

Adelise De'bayle: "I would have to inform him," she replies flatly, her brows furrowing somewhat at his response. "I suppose he would just drop in then... at some point. No matter. Aside from that, I wished to discuss our first location. You know this land better than I do... would you prefer we started farther from home and made our way north?"

Siovant Parlemaix runs those sharpened globes along her face, lips pursing ever-slightly. "That would be acceptable. Was that the path you were intending on taking?" He probed gently.

Adelise De'bayle pauses some, her hands tugging forward the parchment within her grasp. Tugging it open, the girl would dip her nose into page, "well... perhaps I am being biased... as I wish to see the sea again," she murmured out, "I figured perhaps starting with Vylbrand would be more optimal anyhow, as then we can continue most of the rest of the journey on foot or bird-back."

Siovant Parlemaix seems to consider her offering with an appraising expression, "I wouldn't mind a bit of sea-breeze myself. I find your choice to be of an acceptable caliber." He affirms with a graceful nod of his head.

Adelise De'bayle smiles lightly at the man's praise, feeling only lightly fluffed from his words. "I have mapped out each location as well to make this easier on ourselves..." she exhales out contently, handing the man over her now presumed 'map'.

Siovant Parlemaix would take the offered article from the young woman, "Your forward thinking is appreciated, Adelise." He'd note in firm, warm tones. He'd tuck it into his coat, near to his chest as to keep it close at hand. "Shall we, in any case? I presume that you are packed?"

Adelise De'bayle: "I am all but prepared for departure. Let us get going, I would prefer not to miss the next ship to Limsa. Are you feeling air or sea?"

Siovant Parlemaix considers for long moments, "Air would be a great deal faster, I should think." He notes softly, then he'd turn on a heel. "Shall we?"

Adelise De'bayle: "We shall."

Adelise De'bayle leads the packed duo into the Shroud and to the city. Once travelled into the inn, they made their way down into the airship landing where the young woman tugged free her gil pouch, being sure to properly count out the exact amount for each of their tickets. "You know... I have left the Shroud before but... this feels a lot different. I never left those times with the intention of learning or exploring, simply there and back. Mm, I am both anxious and excited to leave this place for awhile."

Siovant Parlemaix laughs loftily at her admission, "Soon you will be a learned traveller, and you'll find no place in Eorzea is beyond your reach." He'd flick a sort of furitive glance around, seeing only idle-eyed attendants. "My love." He'd suddenly add. "We shall see how you feel about distant lands once we've returned, Mm?"

Adelise De'bayle lets out a small scoff, "I will have you know back... home, I ventured quite far with my instructor. This was hardly any place we had not rea-" the young woman is caught off guard some, her eyes glancing toward the airship ticketer who seemed rather disinterested in the idle chatter of travelers. "D-Distant lands? So you did wish to travel to the east then," she huffs out, her cheek the slightest shade of pink.

Siovant Parlemaix leaned in a little closer, smiling crookedly. "We shall have to see how we travel together first. You may find that you tire of my presence after you've been stuck with me for awhile." He chuffs amusedly.

Adelise De'bayle grunts somewhat, "perhaps," she murmurs, shoving the man his ticket. "Let us board before the leave without us," she offers the ticketer a polite bow before quickly shuffling away.

The duo boards their ship to Limsa, the trip a bell or two long before eventually the sea-side city was made visible from the air. Once landed, they both made their exit.

Siovant Parlemaix: "About as thrilling as flights can be, I suppose."

Adelise De'bayle exited off the ship with a relaxed expression, seemingly having found the the trip to her liking as she spent nearly the entirety of it aboard the top deck enjoying the cold breeze. "I quite liked it, not a fan of flying?

Siovant Parlemaix: "I've never had enough time to enjoy them at my leisure. Flights, that is. Nearly every one was at the behest of some work issue."

Adelise De'bayle frowns to this, her eyes directing downward. "Mm, I see. I suppose that would make them a bit less enjoyable after some time," bringing a hand behind her to tug forward her braid, Adelise tugged at its end some. "The first of the stones is here within the city. I do not know the layout here much, but from what I remember it is on the Upper Decks."

Siovant Parlemaix moves to offer the young woman his hand. And should she take it, she'd find herself being lead away. "I believe I know where it is. Although you will have to direct us the rest of the way."

Adelise De'bayle glances toward his hand with brows raising over her forehead, the injuries that once lay there now but light marks. Reaching to place hers within it, Adelise would glance around with a modest expression, avoiding his. "That is fine. I am sure it should be clear enough once we are in the area... it would give me a good chance to speak to the natives anyhow."

-Leading the young Half-Elezen through the bustling city, Siovant eventually brought her up into the Upper Decks, the area decorated ornately with colourful bombs and lights.-

Adelise De'bayle: "Huh... is there a festival going on?"

Siovant Parlemaix inhales briskly, drinking in the mixture of salt and other various city-smells. "I believe so. I haven't paid much attention."

Adelise De'bayle looked about the lovely lights curiously, a small smile gracing her lips, "it looks nice... I wonder what they are celebrating... back home we celebrated the Sunbreeze festival about this time.”

After some more time moving along, he would bring her to a would-be secluded area, the location of Llymlaens stone and a perfect view of the darkening sea.

Siovant Parlemaix: "And here you have it."

Lehko'a Nhali parts with an absolutely shite-eating grin to his companion as his one ear flutters about, proud of himself. "Aye, quite often I tell myself the same." A final drag is taken from the cigarette before he nubs the end against the stone, scorching yet another mark on the alabaster as smoke curls from his lips. "You and I are not the same, darlin'." He pauses, looking rather pointedly to her now. Before the approach of others gives him pause. Brows furrow and the corners of his lips pull downward into something terrible, almost akin to a pout. He falls silent, gaze casting off over the harbour.

Siovant Parlemaix halts just short of the fascination, golden hues alighting upon the sunbaked stone and gently-trickling water with some manner of curiosity. "I've seen it dozens of times, but I've never actually stopped to examine it." His scarred lips tilt delicately, in an expression of musing thought.

Adelise De'bayle looked about the statue with a small state of awe, the beginning fireworks of the festival lighting the evening sky. "This was far more exciting then I had anticipated..." she breathed out, glancing over at the nearby duo. Lips tugging awkwardly, Adelise simply enjoyed what she came for. "Llymlaen is the Navigator. she watches the seas and helps lead sailors safely over its waves through storms..." glancing over toward the Elezen at her side, an endeared expression washed over her features.

Hawu Jinjahl angles oversized ears back to take in the voices of a pair of folk that stand now at their backs, mouth lagging in the wake of her cigarette. Pity, they've silenced her companion. With a huff of quiet laughter, the witch reaches up to shove at the bandit with a hand so heavy with wealth that it becomes the night. "Are you /frightened/ of a little company, dove? My, we really must be different," And they are, the valley of their dichotomy turns sleeplessly with the howls of what lays within it. She's a ghastly thing, this wretch as she leans his way, voice low. "I will find a way to give you something in return for your services then. It would make it easier for me to employ you if you /told/ me what you might like? Trust me, it will not be easy, accompanying me in the dark. There are things you might not like at all."

Adelise De'bayle: "It is quite beautiful is it not?" she inhales deeply at the salt-filled air. "It brings me fond memories..." her scarlet gaze rolled upward toward the heavens, once more growing lost amongst the endless lights.

Siovant Parlemaix flicks an errant eye towards the tones of the paired strangers and their enigmatic intents. Still, his mood was not quashed by company. "Tell me something about home." His expression slipped towards Adelise, eyes alight with that curious gleam. "That... other home, I mean."

Adelise De'bayle kept her gaze toward the sky, the joy within her eyes seeming to dullen with his inquiry. "We would often make trips to a seaside port city similar to this. My instructor and I, or Serick. We would spend our sun there enjoying the sausages served by the vendors, a specialty there and visit each of the respective guilds," Adelise smiled lightly, the expression somewhat somber as she tore her eyes from the stars. "I always said I would pick up a craft, each time I went. I believe it was just an excuse for them to keep taking me back. At the end, when dusk came and washed the sky over in darkness, we would sit and watch the ships leave, the sea an endless black. Covered in these same lights..."

Lehko'a Nhali sways in time with the force of her palm against his shoulder -- which, to say, is not much at all. Her arms were but dried twigs. Still, it earns her a sharpened look and his hand rises to snatch up her wrist, grip perhaps a touch too firm. Slowly, he relents and places it into her silken lap. Tucking the cigarette she'd offered him some bell before into the breastpocket of his vest, he rises, nubbed tail flicking about behind him in muted agitation. Turning, his mismatched gaze falls upon the innocent pair as if they have trespassed something sacred with their presence here -- not that they might have known, of course. Sniffing, he spits into the well as he parts to leave, black tar seeping into the clear waters like ink.

Siovant Parlemaix would draw just a step closer to her as she spoke, offering her muted comfort in his physical closeness in addition to the tangled aroma of that mildest of colognes that he wears. Familiar scents, paired with the unfamiliar sea breeze. "I see." He breathed, tones muted in a somberness to match her own. "It must be hard. But I know that you are strong." He'd affirm to her, "It sounds lovely, though."

Hawu Jinjahl raises her chin as her wrist is snatched, painted lids swimming low to split the rounds of her eyes in twain. Fingers curl inward, relenting at it's placed back into the seat of her lap. "What an irritable creature." As he rounds the corner, Hawu rocks up to her feet, black smoke draining from the corner of her mouth like poison on the air as she turns to regard the pair. Despite the vitriol expressed by her companion, she offers them both a nod, the carmine curve of her mouth both great and terrible before heel claps to stone. Is that an apologetic look in her eye? No, it mustn't be so. She's ambling after Lehko'a with a lazy gait, suddenly privy to trouble.

Adelise De'bayle leaned into his form gently, eventually turning her head to look up towards him. In-taking another deep breath as their proximity grew, Adelise seemed taken by his aroma. Attention drawn for a short moment as the feline pair made their abrupt exist, her eyes flickered to the inky pollution of the fountain the man left in his wake, it rinsing out and into the pitch sea. The young woman simply sighed and let the thought of any potential confrontation go in the face of enjoying their moment here just a bit longer. "Up there. The larger blue stars that glow brighter than the rest? That is the gate to the fifth heaven... the Heaven of Water."

Siovant Parlemaix draws his gaze upwards in some curiosity, his brows furrowing as he squints. His sharpened Wildwood hues had to refocus for the darkness. "Mmm." He breathes in introspect, "I see." He notes, absorbing the information she so gracefully imparted.

Adelise De'bayle: "You would think that to be Llymlaen's heaven, but in truth she is that of the Wind. Though perhaps considering her duty, it might not be all too surprising," she motions a hand up, attempting to point toward the green stars, "The Navigator and the Wanderer, Oschon, created it atop a lofty peak. It is said only explorers, adventurers, saints and those who rescue are allowed within their halls," Adelise bows her head some, as if hoping to take in the knowledge herself. "I wonder how many follow such a path here? The rogue gusts that create tempests from the Heavens created the hell where bandits, defilers of land and sea, and pirates are thrown to. Do you think perhaps many here are destined to such a fate?"

Siovant Parlemaix shifts his weight from heel to heel in mild uncertainty, his eyes dropping back down to the bleached stone that they stood before. "It is difficult to tell where the hearts of the transient will be sentenced. Although, I would not be as naive as to say that there is not an exceptional wealth of 'privateers' within these sunbaked spires."

Adelise De'bayle took a step forward, her eyes wandering over the symbol of the Navigator. "Indeed. Exceptional. People who fall within these gusts, they cannot be saved. How could my voice ever reason with that of a pirate or bandit," a singular breath slipped through her in resignation, ger body moving to kneel onto the stone ledge just before the fountain. Reaching into her bag, Adelise would tug out a decently sized white stone, it egg-like in appearance. Moving it over carefully, she would place the object within the water, watching it for some time.

Siovant Parlemaix drew near to her kneeling form, curious as to her actions. "What have we here? Gifts for the gods?" He brushed his fingertips along the crown of her scalp, scritch-scratching his fingers there softly.

Adelise De'bayle: "The gods care little for gifts, they offer them nothing," she huffs, leaning her head into his scratches feline-like before eventually tucking her leather-clad hands into the water to scoop the stone out. "I simply hope on this journey that allowing him to feel the presence of each god might help to bring him some clarity. His rage knows no bounds."

Siovant Parlemaix lofts an ebon brow, "Him?" Curiosity licked at the edges of his gravelly tones, his eyes slipping about that strange stone.

Adelise De'bayle: "Nogelle," she replied swiftly, the name rolling from her tongue in shame, her tone leveled. "He is never too far for long. Forgive me, for having made you do what you did. I cannot imagine the experience was a pleasant one." Adelise brought the egg up to her face, her thumbs pressing against the shell with some firmness. "He is a troublemaker."

Siovant Parlemaix shifts his weight from heel to heel, although his expression was one that hardly claimed surprise. "I had assumed something of the sort would be the case." He drew in mild tones, "It was not the most... thrilling experience, I suppose." His shoulders slumped slightly, revealing the somberness that took over him.

Adelise De'bayle raised the egg upward, a gentle smiled reserved only for his presence gracing him in their tranquility. "He will be alright I assure you. It has been so long since that has happened to him, it is best to keep him on a tight leash. He gets too possessive otherwise," her head dipped forward in an assuring nod, moving to slip the incased Nogelle away carefully, patting at her bag for extra measure. Shifting her legs under her to push herself back up to stand, Adelise brushed her coat off, "this is the first of Twelve. Not in actual order, but for this particular outing. Did you wish to travel farther out into La Noscea tonight? Or leave in the morning?"

Siovant Parlemaix seems to consider his options, "If we leave the City now, it's quite likely that we'll end up sleeping in the wilds. If that's not something that concerns you, I would recommend that path." He doesn't seem particularly drawn to either option, weighing both their merits.

Adelise De'bayle grins slightly, "in truth, I might actually prefer that. That does not seem to ridiculous does it? I became so adjusted to sleeping under the stars that the plushness of a bed hardly brings me the same comfort. You had mentioned there potentially being springs here in Eorzea, yes?" she eyed him, "I believe where Oschons stone lies, there is one near the location. Least from what I could tell from my gatherings. It is a further trip north but..." she murmurs out gently, “before I forget. I contacted Lenny on the flight here. I am sure we will be seeing him here soon."

Siovant Parlemaix could not help but allow the sardonic furl of his brow, a barely perceptible tightening of his jaw. "I'm looking forward to seeing him." He notes softly, affirmed for the combination of the tome at his hip and the curved Wildwood blade hidden beneath his coat. "Did he give any indication of where he will meet us, or are we simply to stumble into him at some point?"

Adelise De'bayle: "I had informed him we would be here in the city, so I am sure he is somewhere about," Adelise seemed to brighten momentarily at the thought, her hands clapping together almost uncharacteristically as her thoughts seeped into her movements. "Maybe he got caught looking at the festival decorations as well. I am sure he would quite like them, he is an adventurer after all," Adelise reaches to take Siovant’s hand, hesitating for a moment. "Ah..." her fingers curl, retracting as her lips tugged downward unhappily. "This way..."

#Journal #Age of Fire and Gold #Journey to the Twelve

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