Welcome to Adventu, your final fantasy rp haven. adventu focuses on both canon and original characters from different worlds and timelines that have all been pulled to the world of zephon: a familiar final fantasy-styled land where all adventurers will fight, explore, and make new personal connections.
at adventu, we believe that colorful story and plots far outweigh the need for a battle system. rp should be about the writing, the fun, and the creativity. you will see that the only system on our site is the encouragement to create amazing adventures with other members. welcome to adventu... how will you arrive?
year 5, quarter 3
Welcome one and all to our beautiful new skin! This marks the visual era of Adventu 4.0, our 4th and by far best design we've had. 3.0 suited our needs for a very long time, but as things are evolving around the site (and all for the better thanks to all of you), it was time for a new, sleek change. The Resource Site celebrity Pharaoh Leep was the amazing mastermind behind this with minor collaborations from your resident moogle. It's one-of-a-kind and suited specifically for Adventu. Click the image for a super easy new skin guide for a visual tour!
Final Fantasy Adventu is a roleplaying forum inspired by the Final Fantasy series. Images on the site are edited by KUPO of FF:A with all source material belonging to their respective artists (i.e. Square Enix, Pixiv Fantasia, etc). The board lyrics are from the Final Fantasy song "Otherworld" composed by Nobuo Uematsu and arranged by The Black Mages II.
The current skin was made by Pharaoh Leap of Pixel Perfect. Outside of that, individual posts and characters belong to their creators, and we claim no ownership to what which is not ours. Thank you for stopping by.
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 21, 2023 15:13:48 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: A New Journey
"A little tenacity goes a long way~" since learning how to do administrative tasks was very important. During her earlier time in Sonora, she was given tutors to teach her these skills and more traditional mercantile tactics used in Provo. Come the time of her test, to prove she could successfully divert the 'Dust' outside of Sonora's high security walls, she was competent enough to do business.
"So is leaving the audience wanting more, I do believe you're learning, Caius~" Lumina admits, somewhat impressed but still willing to tease. "On the other hand, that just means you want to see more of me." she smiled, feigning innocence. It was a welcome thing for her after all. Being the one that had made up her mind not quite from the onset but at a crucial moment in time. Now she just needed to piece together certain aspects of his life to date. Then maybe she could help him with this matter of understanding his feelings better. Lumina really did mean to lead by example, since she only understood her feelings up to the point of acknowledging they exist. The rest, with all the confidence she exuded, was just that she trusted in them to lead her where she needed to be.
Thirteen, a pivotal age and not far from her own life changing event at fifteen. She noted it because of how Caius paused. A year...? Spent in the captivity of bandits, the last bit of education was tarnished by the loss of his family. Her heart went out to him, that was a difficult age to lose it all. Lumina hesitated in speaking during the silence, opting instead to gently rest her right hand along his back. Mog did the same, for no amount of words could console such.
"...Careful, he might just hold you to that. Truth is, I'm not sure if we really defeated him or if he merely went to sleep." Lumina's world had become a world absent of gods, as humanity preferred it after the tribulations they endured. Even if most forgot the times of the gods and crystals. Her statement was lighthearted but there was a hint of truth to it all. An unknown factor that she couldn't account for. Light had believed she was still in Bhunivelze's employ and certainly seemed to have such powers. In the end, the crest of the Saviour was corrupted. Did all those souls return safely to her world? What of the hundreds 'harvested' from Zephon?
"Shame about the quick access but analog alternatives are more reliable. Unless of course you'd like to use a proper equivalent in Sonora~?" tutors weren't all she had access to. Ending up in Sonora put a lot of information at her fingertips. For that, she had to be grateful and the idea of loose ends there felt very uncomfortable.
The aid who seemed to take Caius in, was quite surprising. To fuss about his grooming, well...he was serving the King, that came with social expectations. Cleaning as well, that left an image on Lumina and all the more questions she desired to ask. Well, the questions could wait a bit, she was genuinely trying to imagine Caius with short hair. Seeing the strands where it was cut was one thing but...proper short, in a business professional look? Lumina was interested. More so at how he came to braiding his hair. It did lend a more professional look, with a lot of styling possibilities---"...I get a say?"
Lumina was bewildered and blushing all the while, as the gears were in motion the older Claire's excitement became clear as her expression changed. "Well, if you're willing to surrender such choice to me~ Partially braided. We style your bangs a bit at the front, let some of the hair on the side frame your face a bit. Then we braid towards the back. Best of all worlds and you'd look...like a worthy suitor in the event I ever present you to my..." she sighs, long and hard, only to mutter; "...Guardian." Once more, Lumina was reminded of her alternate life away from their home in Torensten. She couldn't pretend she wasn't hiding it either. Breaking Serah into that world and her ambitions, was more so she wouldn't be scolded.
Mog certainly looked surprised though but ever quick on his feet, "Oh~ Of course. There's no way a twelve year old could get around Zephon so simply. Even if she was a five hundred year old servant of gods, huh, kupo~?" Lumina had the decency to look embarrassed but didn't refute Mog's astute observation. It did feel selfish of her to experience having a 'Dad' again, while Serah...missed out. The circumstances for each of their arrival here was different. Compared to Caius' own situation, she couldn't hide flinching at the painful mistakes made. She could imagine without tactlessly asking for examples, based on what she observed so far. Well...to a point, there was some of it that was surprising even to her.
"Oh, so that's how you understood...parts of the engagement tradition." seeing how she had coyly teased on other parts yesterday. "How do you feel having the full context?" her somewhat smug, foxy grin was telling. Any progress was good progress and seeing how she was beaming, one of them was happy no doubt. This lead to a very impressed look regarding domestic skills. "It's important to have such skills, especially in a pinch. There are slightly bigger needles too but the smaller ones allow you to keep a repair kit and work with different fabrics and the stitching solutions required. Serah loved to run about a lot when she was younger so...you can imagine." ah the joys of being the big sister, she was lining up stories for that wedding night. Some that she wanted to share at dinner eventually too.
"Can't say I've broken any needles, that is an impressive feat, Caius. Might I make the recommendation to keep reading those romance books then? In return, if you do need any stitching help, you can come to me." helping out in this way was much preferred to being dragged back on the battlefield. That fate seemed to be inevitable in Zephon but she'd do what she could to make it count. She owed Serah that much at least. There was also one more thing she owed her younger sister.
"So, what about those Gods~?" gathering as much information as she could about their new home and any potential divine threats. She did promise they'd be ready back in their world.
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 20, 2023 13:48:29 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: False Light, True Heir part 10; Starfall
Just breathe, she could do that; with a brilliant backdrop that rather set the mood. Tilting her head upwards, she took this moment to gaze upon the stars. "Even in the night sky, there is still light to guide our way. Shining from afar in realms unseen." So long as there was someone with an outstretched hand to take her own in this darkness, there would always be hope. With hope, she'd find a way through this with a lot of help, of course. Speaking of help, there was one fundamental difference that was in her favour this time.
"A safe place, huh? It's nice. Up here, even in a moment of fleeting darkness, I was able to hear you. That's something that's different from last time too." A second after she declared such, Mog returned to her embracing her rather tightly. That was Lumina's cue to allow Caius to let go, so that he wouldn't fall off. Lumina chose to take part in sightseeing, relishing the benefits of aerial freedom. The sky showcased the start of transition, a sight she'd never get tired of seeing. Transitionary moments, whether it was night to day or day to night, were truly magical. Each were star filled and at certain lunar phases, even the moon would make its appearance. Remembering her words at the end of her final battle, Darkness would always threaten humanity. The relative peace which accompanied her amnesia, was lifting. Securing her future in Zephon meant was going to be an uphill battle. Some of it she prepared for; others like the mess from her prior appearance, she didn't. How could she secure the life she was very much enjoying?
The first step, was truly knowing your peers. Bonds were humanity's strength after all and this was a bond that she felt was very special. "I am. You've done pretty well for yourself, a mercenary has to have a well rounded background. More so when you're running a group, that's a lot of hats, speaking from...an entrepreneurial background." this was Lumina's basic assessment so far. "Since you mentioned archives there was probably a lot of knowledge at your finger tips but certain social sciences wouldn't exactly be a priority, I'm guessing? If it helps, I only ever finished High School."
After High School she needed to secure Serah's future, it was enough for one Farron to get a full education and there wouldn't be much free rides remaining from the social system. The way she threw herself at her military career, wasn't much different from Claire's magic education. This time, young Claire could get herself lost in it without too much worries. So, what about what she'd be doing? The Parasite was something to be dealt with in time. Having left her with a cryptic clue amidst the threat of death; it seemed knowing herself and her powers was the starting point. A Deep Dive into her own heart, to lay the foundations for the beginning of her journey.
"If I were to go to the beginning of my time on Zephon, as Lumina; I've passed through different archives of knowledge. Fought my way out of the first one, funny enough. With help from a Fire Drake. I then had the aid of some very...eccentric scholars, with rather eclectic tastes. One of them regaled me with tales of Bahamut. Seems he's Zephon's Bhunivelze and that has me curious, did the palace archive have mention of gods in your world?" fair's fair, she spoke about her foreign and convoluted gods. Now was the time to fess up on his worlds cosmology! Mostly, she wondered if Zephon had parallels to the worlds of Outlanders or if she was reading too much into it. The scholars she traveled with were...outcasts of society admittedly. Though she didn't want to cast a wide net of doubt given the lessons she obtained (for free too).
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 19, 2023 15:54:12 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: False Light, True Heir part 9; No Name.
Lumina certainly stored away that bit of curiosity surrounding his education for later. It was the kind of insight that would help going forward, even if it had to wait a bit. Certainly her discussion about rings proved to pay off in a victory she would absolutely take. When we cross that bridge, Mog's visible reaction of surprise contrasted Lumina's confident smile. There wasn't her usual smugness that would accompany the 'victory' of flustering Caius. Nor was she visibly bashful in light of the remarks, instead she just looked motivated. Maybe this was the hidden power of capitalism~?
Mog did his best to momentarily ease away, slinking to Caius shoulder once he turned around. Their conjoined hands helped to push back the Parasite's influence. A feeling as if it was receding, weakening...until it's presence was no longer sensible for Vordun. Now Lumina could focus a bit, reflect on what happened and the woes that were looming. Being asked to breathe, she complied without a second thought. "Alright, I should be fine now." she wasn't certain of her assessment.
If she went on what she'd been doing thus far, yes, it should be fine but as she looked into Caius eyes, the concern she had was plain to see. "This isn't how it used to be. She must have mutated...adapted really." this gave her pause, as she looked down to their hands. Lumina was distracted by the history lesson but she was certain that it didn't impact her ability to safeguard her heart and soul. This left her speechless, desperately trying to figure out the answers.
"It all happened so fast. Darkness got me..." and it was lights out for a time until she retaliated. This made her question if she really got her powers back? She was just left with so many questions involving herself, her physiology and her health and well being. Leaving her to be so overwhelmed that she could hardly finish sentences. Not until she felt she had every variable accounted for.
"...Is everyone okay? Sorry for the sudden scare..." the feeling of being so utterly suppressed. A mere voice, an ember of light amongst many was familiar thanks to the recovered memories. Where it was different was she felt a sense of equilibrium, complete with confidence in her own light. That did not waiver even as she was surrounded by that void. It was frightening to be isolated like that, powerless.
"...That was just a taste of my power, while you are past your own sources of power, aren't you? There's no Chaos here, no Bhunivelze, your precious Etro is dead. So long as you cannot understand who you are and how your powers work here, only death awaits you."
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 19, 2023 4:04:51 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: False Light, True Heir part 8; Twilight
Lumina had no pushback against the insult to Bhunivelze, his schemes for humanity proved to be convoluted but worse, they weren't clever. He clearly had limits despite being all powerful, proving that even gods needed to collaborate. In lieu of pushback, she opted for something more insightful. "How much of your education is self-taught?" Caius had taken the time to remind her that she wasn't alone, no matter her endeavour and against her current crippling ailment. The same would thus be true for Caius too, after all, he did know a certified teacher who would be happy to have another student. Complete with a... family discount.
"I'm already relying on you regarding this parasite problem of mines. It's strongest when I'm alone, so I'm choosing to be in pleasant company." frankly, it's powers were likely to be stronger against her, if Lumina was to fight and leverage her god given powers too. To make all her renown a weapon to usurp control, was oh so clever. Not so clever was that light pun, which saw her playfully roll her eyes. "Sorry, wasn't so enlightened at the time." she remarks dryly. There were some topics she did likely seem enlightened about. Her explanation on rings was quite inspired by her interactions from her previous world, as well as what she learned in Zephon. Those Provo merchants told her plenty when she engaged them in banter. How could she not, when seeing a ring on each finger. Sometimes two to three on select fingers in addition.
When she nodded in agreement to Caius own knowledge, she was mildly shocked that he knew that aspect of the custom. Her face said it all, even though she wouldn't ask, did he research this? The limit to that research reared its head soon as he asked a question to her own questions. Leaving her to give a soft hum. "If it helps you to understand, I don't mind it." being the enabler of this habit had its own practical benefits. "Merchants." was her immediate reply and she let that sink in with a brief moment of silence.
"Practicality and the sentiment the rings embody make perfect sense, you're not wrong to question it. However, merchants have a way of...guiding the conversation and traditions of all things that have a price tag. 'Well surely if you love her enough to make such a big commitment, why not prove it to the world with these expensive pair of rings. For an extra fee, I'll engrave it for you and place a special stone upon the band. Does she like diamonds? What about her birth stone~?' That's the gist of it." in the end, it all came back to the almighty gil.
"There's no right way to go about it, what matters is the couple likes the approach. It is, a deeply personal custom that will unite them. That said~" her familiar mischief was practically being drummed up. "Your sentiment of building on a set of rings and doing it together, sounds quite romantic. Honestly, I didn't know you had it in you~" now she was just outright teasing Caius. Given the consideration she praised him for, she believed he very much could be a romantic.
"So, in the spirit of your ideal, with the reminder that you said I already had a ring...Does this mean we'd build on these crystal rings, hypothetically speaking of course?" despite her mischief, she was genuinely curious and excited by the prospect. Enough to look at her own ring and contemplate the possibility.
From possibilities to history and all the newfound context provided, the Parasite learned much. Lumina did as well but it left her flatfooted for the usurpation attempt. It was clever, worse it was learning from its previous efforts. Still a bit impatient, given that it exposed one of its 'attack methods'. Likely, she was still as 'bold' and reckless as ever, to show her hand in such a fashion. What even made her so confident? Was it how long she'd lay inside Lumina's heart, dormant? So many questions and in the brief time the Parasite interacted with Caius, it felt like an eternity to Lumina.
"No wait! Please...don't leave me alone..." Vordun no doubt sensed the light and familiar calming presence she was known for, ahead of her words. Lumina was left shaken given how fast it happened. "I won't let you wrest my heart and soul from me. You like chaos? I'll show you what Chaos in my world was like." her voice cut through the void of her mind, illuminating the dark recesses that tightly bound the replica of Etro's throne. As she gazed upon it, the dark wisps acting like foul tendrils, the Parasite would not reveal its form to her. Leaving a bit of frustration and sense of helplessness that left her shaking in the real world.
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 18, 2023 13:53:38 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: False Light, True Heir part 7; Starscourge
Mog and Lumina stifled their laughs, only briefly looking unprofessional at the second attempt at pronouncing Bhunivelze's name. One would say let sleeping gods lie, for foe he may have been, but he at least made a new world for humanity to live on. To that end, they had waited until Caius tried again, muttering it mostly to himself. "Bhunivelze, you're getting closer, Caius~" Lumina would note happily. If all their time together could be moments like this, filled with fun and laughter with a beautiful simplicity...? Then selfish or not, why wouldn't she want to monopolize his time?
Naturally, there would be serious moments too. They had much to learn in order to live a full life in Zephon. Helping each other as they worked through the issues heroic tales tended to leave out, was just part and parcel. At the moment, she really needed to hear that vote of confidence in freeing herself from the Parasite. As honestly, Lumina wasn't so sure...the part of her that had doubts, once a hidden face, was now the public face here in Zephon. She couldn't hide her fear in that moment but neither did she hide her gratitude. "Thank you, Caius." inhaling deeply, the next topic was a bit easier.
"As ourselves...I think, that's why she's fighting. When I was younger, I also largely went with the flow. I guess, if there's anything to find admirable, it was the courage and kindness to see things with a glass half full. Young Claire's problem is, she doesn't want to be swept with the flow and repeat my mistakes. She wants to change, to be better than I was. Change isn't easy but she has help. That's what matters." as for herself, living with the achievements was something she'd learn. The most important thing for her was to remain humble and not be bound by her past self, achievements, faults and all.
"There is something else I need to remind myself of. What we do here is what matters now. That's a bit, no very scary at times." so far so good, of course. "I'll defeat this pesky bug, my light's strong enough." for if she didn't, everything that she'd worked for, the future she was trying to navigate towards, would be for nothing.
Looking at her ring, gave her that added strength. Coincidentally, she'd done so just as the question of multiple rings came up. This was a chance for a fun lesson and so after she asked her own question, she waited until she got his answer to shed all the insight she knew. "Left hand, ring finger~" she points out to Caius outstretched hand.
"In truth, one can wear a ring on each finger, if they so wish. I've seen the wealthy merchants of Provo do it, often. It was my first time seeing that many rings in person. No one did that in my world after all." Lumina would begin, mixing in some lighthearted fun. "However, as far as marriage is concerned. You actually get two rings. The first one, would be an engagement ring. You wear that on your left ring finger, until the day of your wedding. On the night before your wedding, you switch the engagement ring to the right ring finger, so that your left is free for the wedding ring to be placed on instead." as she mentioned this, she was looking at her own, enjoying the lovely pinkish red the crystal provided.
"Of course, that assumes one can afford two rings. Sometimes couples will sell the engagement rings to pay towards the wedding ring when its time. Other times, one ring has to do and maybe they just customize the rings for the wedding. Engraving initials, adding stones, there's options. I imagine, you got Mog all excited when you mentioned I already have my ring." she'd admit before Mog nodded excitedly.
"You can't skip the steps, kupo~ This is all out of order. You're supposed to date first, then get engaged, then get married. I'll help you two every step of the way, kupo~!" Lumina didn't opt to squeeze Mog this time, it was a sweet and practical thing to say. Lumina also seemed to cherish her ring more than anything, despite it not being anywhere near expensive.
Lumina was not prepared for the epic history lesson she just received. Her jaw didn't drop mind but she looked impressed, Mog did too but there was also a sense of sadness. Duty to the people obligated each King to do such and it was quite a sacrifice. She could especially remember moments before the reunification of her heart; the thoughts of Light wanting to stay behind to keep the New World going. The utter loneliness that would entail, those brave words were so empty. When she was corrected on the price, which she found out was servitude, she gave a soft 'hmm'. It was certainly a sacrifice, the conditions were more similar to l'Cie than she wanted to admit. Perspective, was what differentiated the two.
Lumina's thoughts on this seemed to become isolated due to the feelings and words she was speaking. Ordinarily, the feelings she had seemed to imprison the Parasite, limiting influence. That power, coupled with the memories that were surfacing each day, made for a struggle. "The real question is what Lucian King am I referring to, isn't it? Perhaps it wasn't a fight but a gift?" a coy statement that made it clear who was talking now.
"Tch, I lack power...This body is a tomb, there is far too much light---" Lumina forcefully exerted her light in order to suppress the Parasite.
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 17, 2023 22:36:09 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: False Light, True Heir part 6; Once and Future King
Lumina couldn't help but give an innocent smile, for she knew the obvious counter to come. What delighted her was the confirmation of their date tomorrow, which she'd nod in agreement. For the questions she nonchalantly mentioned were certainly date material. Certainly made her wonder if tomorrow's date would feel more romantic? As well as how many she could fit in before a break was had. It had been awhile since her last trip to Sonora, all it would take is a board meeting to be called. For now, sending Serah ahead of her was the safest course of action.
"Bhunivelze, the God of Light." she'd correct but was deeply thinking over the idea of destiny being cut. "Is it really right to say that being called to Zephon cut our destiny or at least, changed it?" Lumina had gotten to thinking, given her newfound clarity regarding Light's descent. "When part of me arrived years prior, I was completely under the effects of Bhunivelze's power and doing my duty as God's servant. My body was no longer human. Though I wonder how it sustained itself without Bhunivelze's light..." Eradia was that source, what allowed her to utilize magic after Etro's demise. It granted Light her powers at the cost of missing something important.
In contrast, her own physiology was different, it was meant to be comprised of Chaos. Different to the god Chaos and his power that Light fought. Though the two did have similarities...Ones that she wondered if it helped at keeping the Parasite at bay? With such thoughts swirling in the back of her mind, perhaps it was no wonder she sought something different, pleasant even. To Lumina's delight, Caius got her the first question of her pop quiz correct. "You got it~"
What she didn't expect was what he said after. As he mused about the ring and the purpose of it in a wedding, neither Lumina or Mog were sure if they should be impressed or dismayed. Mog, recovered faster than Lumina and thus proceeded to say the obvious: "What about the wedding, kupo?" given Caius' words implied Lumina already had her wedding ring, wouldn't it be strange to replace it for another later? "...That is, if you've already given Light a ring now, then are you planning to skip the ceremony, kupo?" These were important questions!
"Mog, I think Caius meant that because I have a ring now, it'd be strange to replace that ring with a proper wedding ring later. Although, you are right that the meaning behind the ring, is more important. Then question two of my pop quiz~ Which hand and finger does the wedding ring go on?" it was important to test his knowledge about marriage, if he was even going to remotely entertain young Claire's antics. Despite this being entirely for Lumina's fun at the moment!
Mog's attempts to derail said fun and embarrass her aside, she did chuckle at the dry joke. There was so much cheese in it, she might become lactose intolerant! Onto important talk, learning about the crystal in Caius world, Lumina made an immediate reference in her mind. "It seems in both our worlds, power is given by an external source. With your world having those who can wield that external source better. The price for the power wasn't effective slavery..." such was the nature of a focus after all. Perhaps it was fortunate that she was drawn from her most present state? Then again, it seemed like all her extraordinary powers were merely the result of being chosen by gods. Each time magic was easier and she could wield it with more diversity than others.
Caius had a hypothesis of his own to test, reaching back to rest a hand on her shoulder. He asked if she recognized this, causing her to tilt her head for a moment until the magic was unleashed. It surprised her but given her eyes shifted purple and the words that came with it, "That...power. The True King..." her voice was strained, raspy. Clearly, she recognized it and seemed to despise it. The reaction she gave was brief, as she seemed fine in a moment and not disgusted or threatened.
What followed about the Oracle, left her uncertain if she was relieved or not. The name...familiar, a possible threat? Except, she was dead or so proclaimed Caius. Being dead in his world didn't mean dead in Zephon. That she felt sick for a moment left her confused, so she'd take a deep breath and then exhale. "So...besides good harmony with Vordun, what do your powers let you do? Fly, wield magic? Increase athleticism?" indulging her curiosity seemed to get her out of the funk, for her eyes returned to normal.
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 17, 2023 14:39:59 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: False Light, True Heir part 5; Counter
"Is that so~? Figures that'd be the first thing you'd want to start with. I thought a date would want to know something more simple like my favourite colour or favourite foods to eat~?" a tease for a tease and one she'd hope would garner her a very cute response at that. There was plenty of time to learn such details, no matter how trivial they may seem. The proverbial elephant atop the dragon was she started with abilities herself.
"Of course they do~ They each have different reasons for that. For Claire, it's to help distinguish us. Also...I think it's...a bit less painful for her. It can't be easy for someone her age to see her whole life laid out before her, the good and the bad. Between you and me, I get the feeling she wants to be different. To write her own future, here in Zephon." Lumina confesses with a sad smile. "I imagine Serah does so just to distinguish between the two of us. Makes it easier for people outside the family. When we're alone she calls me Claire or Clarity." after saying this, only then did this Claire get a wildly mischievous idea.
Inspired by her antics from their first official date, she giggled before asking, "You do want to be a Farron, don't you~? Then, Pop Quiz! What is the special item required for marriages?" she couldn't resist, she probably should have resisted but this was too good of a setup.
"This one is easy, kupo~" Mog admits smugly, sure he couldn't call out all this flirting openly. That wasn't going to stop him from having a good time at his rival's expense!
Also to Mog's delight, getting to witness these new expressions on his rival that Serah hadn't gotten to see. When Caius had called Lumina's true name again, he shifted in her grasp so he could look up at her proper. "Are you sure you're not in love---" squeeze, this time Caius wouldn't have to doubt he heard Mog's squeak. "You could call my twin lil' Claire~" a nice, overjoyed response to hearing her name again. "Mmm, she won't be little for long though, she'll probably go through a growth spurt next year."
With such thoughts lingering in their flight, Lumina took the time to adjust her position. Caius had given her a signal that she could hold onto him. Naturally she did cause why not take the excuse, leaving poor Mog to hold onto her comically until he felt adjusted. Once everyone was comfortable in their own ways, it was easier to take a moment to enjoy what was all around them. More importantly, there were things best learned by watching. Seeing Caius in action up here was quite special. She could do with not ruining it too much. In fact, when she realized how special this all was, it left her silent but grateful.
With the calm of the skies, her questions could be answered and she listened in quite intently. Lumina notes that he was not born with magical abilities, only to feel something in her mind at the notion of 'King'. She looks momentarily distraught, especially when hearing Oracle Lunafreya. "The crystal in your world holds such power?" idle thoughts before the brewing chaos of her mind. Her mind resonated with the word 'King'. Over and over, leaving her desperate to understand.
"Admittedly, we're not so different, you and I. I wasn't born with any powers and my family wasn't wealthy either. Nevermind being orphaned..." she sighs, feeling a sense of Déjà vu. "No world saving destiny was on my lap, just bad parenting. Until I was chosen anyway." she wished the means to gain her magical abilities was as noble as serving.
"Your King...I remember fighting a King, as Light, a year or so ago. Well, I wasn't exactly in control. This time feels different too, I have complete control, my body is being manipulated at all." this didn't explain her instinctual reaction to King... Certainly wasn't the parasite. Maybe...something within the parasite? That wasn't all that bothered her.
"What exactly does your Oracle, Lunafreya do? Could you...describe her?" that was an eerily familiar name but if she was being honest, Caius was a very eerie name. People tended to share names, coincidences like that happen from time to time. Although...it didn't hurt to be sure.
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 17, 2023 11:59:24 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: False Light, True Heir part 4
"To clarify, you did mention it in an overarching way but not the specifics. I'd like to really break it down and understand your capabilities." Lumina immediately elaborates, with quite a bit of enthusiasm. He was from a different world than her, so it served as useful reference for learning. Certainly from what she'd picked up thus far, their worlds were similar in function. Where they differed was the state of their worlds specifically. Little did she know that both their worlds were being meddled with by gods.
Caius' laughter was welcome, Mog and her didn't feel bad for being slobbered on in the least. Certainly left an embarrassed smile on their respective faces. Had she known that her outside the box thinking would marvel Caius, she'd absolutely tease him about it. Followed by being a bit embarrassed as well. Her past exploits, weren't things she did with praise in mind. After Bhunivelze's defeat, she was happy to go into obscurity once the dust settled. The reason for that, was so she could enjoy moments like this. Zephon was Lumina's chance to balance her extraordinary life to date, with the normal life she missed. Worse, with her memories on Zephon slanted to the part of her that craved such. In order to be who she was now, in this moment, she had grossly deprived herself, concealed her true feelings and endured tragic self-abuse.
To heal from that and to resume living as she wanted to in her world, one she'd fought and stolen from Bhunivelze; Lumina intended to chase after every little moment, with an open and humble heart. Since the payoff, was this wonderful moment that nearly caught her off-guard. Having the person you have a major crush on, say your name~ It sounded so good, her heart was racing a bit. Oh, sure, it was a simple thing that normal people would have taken for granted. As Claire "Lumina" Farron, she most certainly cherished it. Her face had lit up only to be embarrassed by how happy she felt. Sometimes she swore she was twelve fifteen at heart, good grief. "I don't blame you~ I do hope you know how lucky you are, Caius. Being cherished by 'twins' is a handful."
"Oh, you don't have to apologize for that, Miss Lumina Farron is fine after all. I think, the best way to explain it is... strangers call me that. I don't want you to be or feel like a stranger~" hopefully she wasn't laying that on too thick. Her own feelings were overwhelming, like a rapidly growing bubble of excitement. Not unlike kids at Christmas, really; though that did come with challenges. Lumina internally struggled with a desire to take things slowly, enjoy all the little moments, contrasted against a feeling she knew well from a business angle. When you find something that's incredibly valuable, you move in to secure it. The line between aggressive and assertive was a bit thin after all and she was inexperienced in the "acquisition of love", as it were. The feeling honestly felt rather chaotic!
On the bright side, that consideration and carefulness made her feel special, even when it was her own circumstances that caused the difficulties in her identity. Sure, Zephon didn't make it better but she'd have to deal with that going forward. What mattered, was Caius adorable reaction to her teasing. Along with ensuring Mog's silence, who absolutely did squeak when she squeezed him. Mog would have to bear her affection since she couldn't go squeezing Caius for example.
When it was time for lift off, Lumina was quite exhilarated but felt that crying out 'woohoo' was probably not going to make her look mature. Taking to the skies like this would never stop being special, even if she was acclimated to it. Choosing to maintain her composure where she could, she'd coo once they were at a certain altitude. The feeling of nostalgia as she looked around, taking in the sights reminded her of one special friend. Sure, she hadn't seen that original Fire Drake in some time but in lieu of such, her crew was used to flying with a different dragon.
A Storm Dragon oft accompanied her airship Radiance, to keep Sky pirates and more recently the conventional naval pirates at bay. He had come to whisk her away from the manor so that she could at least get away with what little evidence she had. Their encounter with another duo, in hindsight had revealed the clues of her Zephon merger with Light. If she was being honest with herself, even during her time at the manor, she was starting to feel more and more like her whole self. At the time though, due to her memory problems, she attributed it to merely feeling more like Lightning. In the end, her power proved to be too much for those experiments. Could the parasite have played a role in that?
Pushing that aside, as Lumina felt it was now encroaching on her in ways she did not appreciate, it was time to dive into Caius own prowess. "So, were you born with any powers at all?" she felt this was important as she wanted to start drawing parallels to her own world.
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 16, 2023 12:58:16 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: False Light, True Heir part 3
"Fire Drake? Oh, I see~" true enough Lumina had encountered such but in the most unlikely places. In the course of her own arrival in Zephon, she was found at the Metaia Temple. She learned now that she was in the same spot the Parasite had been, when it was luring friends into a trap. It hurt that she couldn't name this special friend, only the sentiments of that failed battle remained. Tainting her own awakening in some regards. Whilst adding newfound clarity where she lacked so much. Ever vulnerable, the children of chaos as she affectionately called monsters; had come to protect her at the time. That was a fire drake as she recalled. She was quite deep within the temple, scores of zombies were about. They succumbed in time though said dragon could only go so far in the journey, on account of space. There was many moments where she had to go it alone. Until other Monsters could come about and aid her in getting to Pyebwa Outpost.
At the outpost, she was treated for injuries and tended to by the displaced scholars and monks who had a keen interest in the temple. Having experienced much of it, Lumina had a lot to share. One of the monks felt it wise to guide her northward as with her amnesia, she could only get so much care within the outpost. She traveled with a merchant caravan who knew the way. Passing through Yanovich Waterway until they'd arrive in Sonora's territory. Lumina was brought to Mount Hotan once inside Sonora's domain, where she stayed for some time prior to entering Sonora's capital proper.
Even as she was slobbered on, that she could recall her friend who so came like a divine intervention. Other dragons had come to her aid since, seemingly they could distinguish unique powers of Outlanders. This caused Lumina who had to close one eye from the drool, to look with her visible right eye to Caius. He mentioned Vordun interfaced with his powers, which begged the question. "You haven't shared much about your powers, given Serah's regaled you on what I can do. Might be some nice flight discussion~" first though, she'd need to clean herself off a bit.
Moving a short distance away, she'd whip her hair around once. Using some soft and ingenius applications of her magic, she'd clean herself off. Likely splashing Mog playfully, who let out a surprised gasp in the process before wiggling about to clean himself off. Now they could address that ever so important topic of her name. Combing her left hand through her hair for a moment, she looked contemplative. "I don't mind if it's too awkward for you to call me Claire, well, in private that is. It'd just be nice to hear you say it once." that was her selfish wish that she couldn't help but smile for as she combed her hair out.
"Well, I like Lumey too so if that's comfortable for you then it's fine. You did come up with it, so that makes it special too." she'd admit once she was done with her hair. No doubt her twin would have scolded her if she didn't try to upkeep her appearance. It was young Claire's mission to actively prevent Lumina from the simple and somewhat elegant look of a guardian and soldier. Entirely Mog's fault for showing what she would look like in the future but she deserved that truth.
With Vordun saddled up, she'd take Caius hand and get onboard. Mog did indeed float on over to rest in Light's lap. Before they'd lift off, Lumina decided to playfully add something, "I really like how considerate you are, it's a rather charming trait of yours. I should have added it to my list~" she meant every word and was practically glowing as she said it. Yet the mischievous way she opted to use such a fact, was distinctly her own style.
"What would Serah say if she heard all this flirting, kupo~?" this response earned Mog a slightly more assertive embrace, squeezing the moogle.
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 16, 2023 11:24:45 GMT -6
"Beautiful Chaos"
Scattered Dreams
"Hmm, five is a good number, kupo~" Mog seemed fine with forming a five person unit, a veritable squad, perhaps~? Shame his good mood from Caius banter would be dashed. Not before he got to also observe the rings charming capabilities. He seemed to nod to himself, as if taking note for later, especially with the colour change.
The Parasite's ploy was now in full bloom and whilst Caius and Lumina had reacted quite quickly, they had not understood the Parasite's newfound capabilities. Now was the time to shed a light, on such~ Starting with Caius who questioned whether Serah was infected. The Parasite was a parasite but he only needed to examine Lumina closer. First though, he'd best start with her words:
"...Yes, I am the host. She's been...weak, recovering really but it was very slow. The more memories I've regained, the more her strength returns except for...moments where she's sealed off. They're like blackouts and thus I can't hear her voice when they happen." that was her assessment given the duration since she was cognisant of its presence within her. Unfortunately, that was all she knew until more memories surfaced. Fortunately, Caius would not be left in the dark for much longer. As he thought upon his helplessness in protecting Lumina, the parasite called out:
"Lumina is half the host that Lightning was in the past, less so given that her physiology is different. Yet I completely snuffed out that god-slaying woman, leaving her a mere husk, a vessel that carried hundreds of souls. What do you think I'll do to her as my power returns~?"
All from a mere glance, what would happen when he touched her shoulder then? Well naturally, he'd begin to detect something oh so familiar. Inadvertently, that touch was all he needed to know on its viral capabilities. For what Serah was going to suffer was a thing from his homeworld specifically. As for the lady of the hour, her response was a look of worry. It was probably far more tender than Light would express but the origin emotion was the same. In her arms was Serah, the sister she'd been protecting, raising really, for quite some time. Biting her bottom lip, she consented as she carefully gave Serah to Caius to hold.
"I understand, thank you, Caius. I'll be there in a minute." taking that moment to breathe, in light of the memories surfacing, left her to understand the expanded powers. A chance meeting with a man who seemed to be able to sweet talk the parasite into taking on something beyond its understanding. Thus, Caius' wisdom proved right, Lumina's emotions interacting with the parasite had profound effects. Good and bad for the Parasite, mind. Once she joined Mog and Caius by the chair, her eyes had turned purple.
"I admit, I acted rashly regarding your sister. I can see that now, Serah. I have many more roads to take now and my purpose is divinely inspired. There is no need for me to use you, Serah, not as you think. Think of it more as mutual cooperation, I'll scratch your back and you'll scratch mines."
These were the thoughts the Parasite would leave Serah with as it was ready to set the stage in a big way. When Serah looked up to Lumina, she'd see that familiar worried look of her big sister. Especially as her words were a by hysterical, due to the missing context. Except one part, even with the omission, Lumina knew what she was driving at, causing her to look away in guilt.
"Serah...I'm...sorry. I was trying to figure this all out. Thanks to Caius, I understand what it means, so I was hoping to tell you tonight." wisps of light and shadow floated to her left side before manifesting a very convincing illusion of Lightning as she was when infected with the Parasite.
"She didn't tell you because she was afraid, Serah. That you only missed part of her. Truth is, this is your sister properly merged with her complete heart and soul. Just as you remember her from the New World. The Light you met, took on the form of the Saviour as Bhunivelze intended. Throwing the remnant pieces of her heart and soul, the ones most deeply in contact with yourself; into the chaos. Oh but if only it ended there. As the Saviour, Light descended upon Zephon like a meteor. Where she proceeded to 'harvest souls', so that she could cure this sick land. Hundreds of souls and more still that had nowhere to go, made the Light you remember, a shell of herself. Just a serial killer with a divine motive. I did her a favour by taking over her body and turning her into the perfect skin suit."
now the Parasite utilizing the illusory body of Lightning, just as Serah remembered from their battle, would laugh.
"I must have tipped the Old Gods off when I stole mana from the Metaia Temple, cause they shouldn't have summoned another copy. Shame that one didn't have the right body or memories to stop me. She doesn't even have the drive to fight. The grand lesson learned by the candidate for New Goddess of Death. It's pathetic but her physiology did have its uses. A potent connection to a different kind of Chaos from my own, that could help me to reccuperate after your violent stabbing. Oh and it seems like the perfect incubator for this blight I received. I figure, you'll start feeling it in a couple of weeks. The perfect guinea pig, subject zero. Go to Sonora, help it spread further and undo all your sister's plans to save that worthless city."
She hadn't even gotten to the best part of it all, the invalidaton of bringing Lumina here due to the Parasite shifting to her. Absorbing Light steadily instead of allowing her to properly recover? The coup de grace in the Parasite's proverbial gunblade.
"Don't get mad at me, the signs were there. Those little moments where she felt more like Lightning and worried she'd soon face her demise. Just perfect~"
