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 15, 2023 17:40:09 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: False Light, True Heir part 2
It was probably selfish to put this kind of pressure on him, even if Lumina didn't do this for sheer amusement. Part of going through one's feelings, determining that someone is special outside of a platonic or familial way; was embracing moments head on. She'd done the same yesterday despite every instinct in her mind decrying her decision. She wasn't much further ahead in understanding her own feelings either. There were a few things she did know, as the veteran in their situation. "Yes, Caius~ I will go out on a date with you."
After the embarrassment of having to ask, something that was very forward; there was nothing like the rush of having your request accepted. That was why it was important to verbalize feelings, that's how they gained meaning. Kind of like speaking things into existence. "I'm also going to answer your question, about why I have feelings for you." she admits with a nod. It was rude to keep him waiting on that front, had she been in a more controlled state of mind, she'd certainly have had her usual control.
"I am someone who never should have existed. Logically, there should only be one Claire Farron. Only through the carelessness of a god, was I able to become a vessel for Serah's heart and soul. Otherwise, part of Claire would be missing and likely, if I could not take form, Serah would be gone forever." that...was a very heavy start, whilst still sticking to Lumina's one hundred percent transparency.
"Before we met, I thought that one day, my time would be up in Zephon, just as it had before. I thought I might leave before that but clearly, that didn't work out. So, I owe it to you that I'm here right now, on a different road. I suppose that makes you my hero and you didn't use that strength of yours, nor your position, to save me. Just your heart and wisdom, things you take for granted but they make you special, Caius."
Having seen her end before, she was prepared to face it again. A dark path that would see the Farron family, down to two as intended. Not that she ever spoke of such to any of them. She need only provide everything that they need and hope that they remembered her. That would have been a mistake, Zephon called her here for a reason. Was she the Claire Farron that Zephon deserved? Absolutely not. They'd gotten that one the first time around. Instead, she was the Claire Farron that Zephon needed.
Mog having picked up on the situation the night before, would always be there for Lightning. For there was no difference in his eyes. Especially as she wasn't quite out the woods after all. So he slipped into his role rather comfortably and had already built up a good rapport before hand. He also got to learn a good bit about this version of Light. Monsters didn't see her as a threat at all. She'd beckoned them quite a few times in Mog's presence (was that ever a shock. It was one thing when Serah and Noel did it in the past...). There was something else too, especially as it regarded Vordun specifically.
When encouraged to pet him, Lumina moved to do just that and further spoke up, "Do you know what kind of Dragon Vordun is?" Thus far in her nearly two years, soon to be three on Zephon; she had encountered various types. Giving Vordun her affection was fun and simple enough, thanks to her experiences. She'd admittedly lost herself in playing with Vorun that she let out a soft, 'huh' at the mention of a preferred name.
"I've never been asked that before." letting out a soft hum, she felt that her chance to choose her fate presented itself once more. "When we're alone, you can call me Claire. I don't intend to abandon the name my parents gave me again." she had said similar to Serah some time ago after their reunion. "That said~ I do like the nicknames people give me. Your chosen one is especially cute. If that makes you more comfortable, then you can use that. Alternatively, Serah's taken to calling me Clarity, after one of Claire's classmates gave me that name to distinguish us. Being the angel is hard sometimes." making that joke was difficult this time around, so it sounded very flat, as if she didn't believe it anymore.
Fortunately, she wasn't going to bring the mood down. "Flying huh~? I'll have you know I'm experienced. Ah but I wonder if that takes some of the fun out of it for you. Seeing as I'm going to have to teach you to dance, tomorrow? Tell you what~? I'll just pretend I know nothing and you can hold onto me."
"I'll just...stay in Lightning's lap, kupo..." Mog wasn't thrilled but given his circumstances, that was probably fair.
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 15, 2023 8:43:22 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: False Light, True Heir part 1
Lumina didn't tire of people easily, people probably got tired of her if that was possible~ It was a tactic to keep the loneliness away, selfish as it seemed. With a solemn nod of appreciation, maybe there would be some hope in tomorrow. Preferably, without the surprises that her powers and unified identity brought. Should such happen though, well...wasn't it the story of her life too~?
Caius confession about not knowing who that was, rendered Lumina surprised but confused. She looked contemplative for a moment and then gasped. "OH! Of course you don't know...yet." in her anguish she'd let slip something she was meaning to tell him at some point. "It's...another long story. One I'll tell you tomorrow if you can make it. Just know that Clarissa Fairborn, is me." this ran a bit deeper, as such was the identity she'd assumed in Sonora. The name that seemed to replace Claire Farron in this world. As well as all other aspects of her identity, leaving her with the codename, Lumina.
A fleeting thought, just as the warmth from their embrace soon left. Caius had suggested they go elsewhere for a moment. No complaints from Lumina, she nodded her head before wiping her eyes with the back of her hand. Now that she could see properly, she was pleasantly surprised by Caius offering his arm. Sure it wasn't handholding but it was a step, so she'd rise from her chair and take his arm. "Another date?" she paused before realization dawned on her. "Yes, you did but aren't you forgetting protocol here?" her tone now a mere semblance of her norm.
"Since you're proposing the date, you should make it official by formally asking me. Go ahead, give it a try~" she was getting better and Mog, picking up on this expected change of scene, opted to take Lumina's bowl and cup back into the kitchen for now. They didn't waste food in this house, kupo! Taking care of the clean up was simple as the moogle floated about quickly.
"I'll tag along in case Lightning needs anything." Mog volunteered, rather calmly despite being worried. The parasite was bad news and finding out about the events that led up to it, was awful. Serah's heart would be broken if she found out. She was already really upset about the actions the parasite caused Light to take. So, he'd made sure the house was properly closed up on their way out as they headed for the air tram in this district. It was very accessible from their place given the traffic from the port.
After arriving at the entrance, they took a nice stroll outside the city. Pleasant, as well as a bit different from how it was in her memories. At least in the end, she did protect Torensten, in her own way. Not that she remembered much after the battle. Taking on all that chaos, led to the dark road that jeopardized her life here. Once they were a safe distance out, she turned to look back behind them. Caius had let go of her and took a step forward.
The result was an action that snapped Lumina out of her self-pity. She turned around, before looking upwards. Somehow, she hadn't expected this but given the stone statue of a dragon behind Caius statue, it all came into focus. "This certainly puts the Dragon in Dragonblades." Lumina remarks dryly. Once it landed, Caius moved to approach the dragon, leaving Mog and Lumina to turn and look to one another. They were surprised but not alarmed in any fashion.
"Vordun?" "Vordun, kupo?"
For a moment, the duo watched the display of affection in mild awe. Once Caius was slobbered over, the duo had yet another unison response: "Cute~" "Like a puppy, kupo."
Only then did they break out laughing. No doubt catching Caius attention, who turned to face them as he gave a proper introduction. Mog and Lumina slowly approached Vordun, the older Farron had a distinct aura of sorts that Monsters could easily pick up on. One that marked her friend as she gave a playful curtsey to Vordun. Mog spun around in sync with this before they took turns introducing themselves.
"I'm Claire Farron, you can call me Lumina." "...and I'm Mog, nice to meet you, kupo~"
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 15, 2023 6:28:53 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: Remnants of the Saviour, Part 2
Mog, whom Caius had been side-eying had not only devoured his bowl but had time to float off to the kitchen, give himself a second full bowl, then come back. Dealing with the woes of his rival was hard work, so he needed to be well fed for this dark road. Watching the two of them silently, distracted Lumina from the thoughts just a little. Enough to give a sad smirk before closing her eyes a moment. The empty joy of success in the face of a deep, unending darkness was all she had to cling to for a time. To have a moment she worked so hard for, snatched from her seemingly dainty grasp. Only for it to be the first of two pivotal moments, tarnished by what was developing into Lumina's Dark Side. Leaving her once pure white wings, tarred black like chaos.
"Oh?" gosh the life and mischievous edge of her voice was snuffed out."Tomorrow then. There's a music hall in a city not far from the capital. I get to learn the secret of your cup noodles, see new sights and take care of a potential business deal. They get to see their hero learning to dance to some popular couple's songs."
Lumina strummed her left fingers along the table after proposing such. She'd strained herself to get that reply out, no matter how much she had wanted it. The ideal was tainted by her deep rooted insecurity. "I don't want to be alone." not with seemingly two monsters in her heart. She could fight one but that was her limit. Why was everything always a fight, anyhow? Why couldn't she just enjoy these fun and precious moments without worry. As she waited for Caius to recover a bit, she thought that she should be laughing right now. A few victory laps were certainly earned. Alas, her heart was broken and once more, she could only blame herself.
The story she told, even with the softening took a moment for Caius to connect. Once he did, his audible profanity laden response, while merited, did leave Lumina to flinch. For whilst she couldn't see him, his words were enough to inform her of the heavy realization. A Mass murder done to purify a 'sick land', that's how Light had felt. Only...Zephon was not in such a state, in spite of its many problems. The majority were human problems, things that could be fixed. Others could be dealt with by Outlanders like themselves, to earn their keep in this world. Quite frankly? THERE WAS NOTHING TO SAVE!
"See---"
in perhaps the most effective silence inducing display of selflessness; Caius had hit the pause button on the Parasite. Lumina paused as well, surprised that he had hugged her. This was the second precious moment, tainted by darkness. Before now, Lumina really wanted a hug but was too shy and concerned about boundaries, to ask for it! The idea of being clingy or manipulative had restrained her. Now, she'd received what she desired but the joy of it was lost. Crying to get a hug, was cheating and it made her feel...deceitful. Even though she was in deep anguish, the part of her that wanted to slowly court Caius with her own merits, felt disappointed.
When her tears resumed, her arms uncrossed as she slowly returned the hug. "T-this isn't...how I wanted this to go..." a statement which would be easy to misconstrue. She certainly meant this wasn't how she wanted their first hug to go but clarity wasn't going to be had for awhile. Eyes now puffy and cheeks red, Lumina would whimper for a time. Even if she wanted to, she couldn't cry any more. Caius had said that it wasn't her anymore. Though she had said yesterday that once she started fighting, she couldn't stop. Foreshadowing a deep flaw within herself that came to light in the most repulsive way.
Lumina desperately wanted to deny that it wasn't her. To act on her duties without Hope to guide her? What voice was whispering in her ear to pursue such a madden course? Did she see herself a balancer? She seemed to target powerful souls of harmony throughout the memories that rose to the surface. The worse of it, the infected Light who seemed to struggle with the parasite, as well as her desire to 'harvest', hunted someone special. The name eluded her, the memory as intense as it was, victim to the unique ways of Zephon. Not that she needed a name. Her heart knew that woman was special, a precious friend; one she was very fond of. There was another, whom Light deemed 'exotic' that would also be entangled in the web. One with a voice that was...like her own, at a certain pitch. None of that mattered to Light but to the person she was here and now, the agony was unbearable.
"...Ah." she finally spoke up. It was the parasite's influence after all, attempting to push Light to greater heights of power. Even if it rang hollow as an excuse, she could at least cling to it. She could never harm a friend, nor someone of a different but reminiscent light. Yet the feelings her friend had after such a defeat. To be abandoned by them... for that alone, it may as well have been Light and not the parasite. Though her realization ran deeper, for the confrontation with her friend was Lumina's origin point on Zephon the Metaia Temple.
Lightning had been gathering mana there, to fuel herself and to fight her friend. Perhaps inadvertently, as Light was merely a withered shell of existence, Zephon acknowledged the need for another? "Lightning was...at the place where I arrived in this world. Stealing precious energy from the Metaia Temple. Except, it wasn't Lightning at that point. Just a fragment, consumed by the remnant power of a god, named Chaos. The parasite had been in control for the majority of her time here." Zephon sure took it's time but her friends wishes were answered. Just a shame that she likely wasn't around to see it, given the faded memory...
Clearly, the story of her life to date, was how she became her own worse enemy. Memory after memory, it was just the parasite, seeking to spread blight across Zephon. Until no light remained and darkness held the land. Would Zephon then need a Saviour? Seems that it called for one, even if she did arrive fashionably late. Her arrival enabled the parasite a new vessel to transfer to after it's violent demise. Such an impatient thing, perhaps it had learned but so long as Lumina was strong enough, she could keep it at bay. Especially with some help, which she held onto tenderly now.
"Part of me, feels like I've never been in control. Not since I was Claire's age." be it life or god, she was just a puppet on strings. So utterly helpless... "I'm no one's slave." an instant rebuke to her self-pity. Caius was right, she was in control now and she'd made good on the wishes of Zephon, except... "Were all those deaths...just to save Sonora alone? Clarissa would roll in her grave knowing a murderer was using her name and influence..."
Clarissa Fairborn victim of an assassination effort, heiress of a major corporation, affiliated with Radiant Dawn Corporation. Died at age twelve. Fair skin, pink hair, blue eyes. Declared a survivor, after being found at Mount Hotan. Guardianship taken by Reinard Vidius, Chairman of Radiant Dawn.
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 14, 2023 16:22:01 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: Remnants of the Saviour, Part 1
Challenge accepted, surely she knew some, why she even began to playfully count on her left hand how many she had in mind. When she finished, she had four fingers and her thumb up. Unfortunately, Lumina's achiles heel in this scenario was names. Really, Caius expected her to have names? She tried her best not to remember a lot of people! Further went out of her way to not get names whenever she could! The other problem, was as she had time to linger on it, she retracted some digits. Her maternal instincts were dubbing most of her choices unacceptable relative to her standards for Serah. A problem that she knew all too well. Leaving her with only a desire for someone that wasn't Snow, that wasn't like their Father...
Shaking her head, she did look a bit sad at the mention of the Zephon list. "That's for emergencies only..." was all she'd say, as if admitting she had such a list was an utter defeat in and of itself. This shouldn't be a surprise, Lumina loved having contingency plans. One of which was trying to reverse engineer the summoning magic that Jules de Lune was trying to come up with. After all, if they could someone Outlanders, whose to say she couldn't. Then, all those that they cared about would be here.
Caius' apologetic look was adorable, instantly forgiving him as the contingency plans doubled in her mind. There was always tomorrow for said dancing lessons. Would she have to rent out the upper floor of a tavern? Mmm, she could just rearrange one of the rooms here in her house. Certainly cost effective but not immersive. If she recalled, in passing, there was a hall in one of the cities outside the capital. Making a trip out of this could be a lot of fun. Penning the idea under maybe for the time being, Lumina moved on.
At first blush once Caius began to zone out, she was genuinely concerned it was hunger! This initial impression seemed to put some extra pep in her step as she prepared things. Relief came after he had his bowl and began eating. Seemingly whatever troubles he had left, leaving a rather hungry mercenary at her table. Only once he was properly immersed did she rethink the false positive. The food, which he eventually complimented was more a distraction for his thoughts. Should she pry then? No, that could wait until things were more settled. A shame that her own mind was anything but settled.
An early memory had emerged from her subconscious. Lumina could seldom remember when she arrived but Light's arrival was crystal clear. With all the horrors that her mind once feared could overtake her. To think it was her entire soul that had been impacted, leaving it in a veritable state of discord. Unable to harmonize, nor to succumb to chaos and she was immediately familiar. There had been a sensation that played on her heart and mind. Like the chaos she knew, hence the misconception of her powers in this world, yet it was different. Lumina felt as if she crossed into another timeline. This was the timeline where Lightning had acted as she feared. There was no teethering on the edge, no careful considerations due to honeyed promises.
Lumina's physical demeanour changed dramatically. Caius had mentioned knowing the gait of one with blood on their hands. Thus far, it was clear Lumina was without. She didn't even have the gait of a warrior, which was rather telling. The rift in her heart, this wasn't of her own volition. A misguided teenager's ambition that left her more weapon than person. This reeked of divine meddling that had twisted her into someone unrecognizable. Gazing down upon her lap, she moved her right hand into view. She'd been unable to look Caius in the eyes now.
"You should finish up your bowl first." her words were strained, clearly she needed a minute. More no doubt, in order to process what was happening. Rather, to process what had happened, years prior. "Apparently, this is a very long story. The parasite isn't the monster I have to deal with right now." crossing her legs and arms, she leaned back against her chair, silent.
"...I'm not sure this counts as a bright side but I'd like to revisit your theory about Claire."
Inhale, exhale; it was story time and it was of a story that took place in Zephon. Lumina had to go back, three years ago, to Light's arrival. "Lightning arrived in Zephon with quite a bang. She was still playing the loyal servant to God, she must be from an earlier timeline than Serah and I. That does explain certain behaviours, with her heart split, she lacked emotions. She blamed God for such and upon arriving on Zephon, she continued her role as God's Saviour." so far so good, despite the implications made with her starting summary.
"If summoning an incomplete version, causes Zephon to try again...Then it explains how I arrived. Unfortunately, my memory was beyond scrambled and I didn't have my true form at all. So I thought I must be incomplete as well. The conditions were similar, powers included. Except I remember things Light didn't. So, sure enough, Serah and I are from the same time period. That's a problem all on its own. Using the power of the Saviour...Those powers are meant for a dying world, Caius. Zephon, is not a dying world, as far as we know. The Saviour harvests the souls in order to bring them to a New World. Those souls are meant to be brought to a vessel but that vessel is not here, which meant they were inside her soul...twisting and pulling, leaving an incomplete Lightning to be unbalanced." Lumina's composure faulted in that moment, tears began to well up in her eyes.
Vivid, that was a word as she remembered Light's first kill on Zephon. How another man, a fellow Outlander, asked if there wasn't a better way. Only for Light to finish off an injured old man. He died with fear in his heart and she blamed that fear on the 'false hope' given by the man. Fast, efficient, the marks of a true killer. Only one of them acted like a human being in that moment. Even if they were both soldiers, Lightning would go on to harvest more souls. In just a few weeks time of her descent, she'd purged Zephon of hundreds of souls.
Good, evil, men, women, powerful, weak... It mattered little to her. They were all a plague. She existed only to take their souls from their physical bodies and carry them elsewhere for the betterment of the land.
If she could shed a tear for them all, she would but a single tear was not enough. Leaving Lumina to weep, as memories of Lightning pointing her blade at what Lumina was certain was a fellow Outlander? Not the descended God bearing the name Chaos. Oh, sure said God proclaimed themself to be Discord. Gods loved to embody concepts, the more titles the better! The anger she felt at a target so obvious, Lightning...didn't feel it. She felt she lacked strength to cut him down and refocused her efforts.
"You see? Now there's a worthy vessel. Face it, Lightning; there is no version of you that can be ordinary.It just doesn't suit you. You want to play house? Leave that to Serah. With my power, you can end the pain Sonora's elite brings upon the people, today!"
Just what Lumina needed, that voice again. The moment she was vulnerable and not in a way that encouraged bonding. Rather, the vulnerability of the emotions she had once cut away, to give her the codename Lumina that she'd retained in Zephon. Brought her within a resonance to this...thing. Deep within, she knew that if she succumbed to its foul temptation, then she'd be no better. Lumina needed to fight this, it was the logical thing to do! Except...she was filled with crippling fear. Fighting brought on the monster within. Fighting...was a vicious cycle that she was tired of.
"She was here." Lumina muttered, breaths ragged. It was a long time ago but Lightning was in Torensten, gauging her options on whether to fight a literal god. Lumina was pale and she couldn't see anything with the tears blocking her eyes. There was the consolation that Lightning did protect the people, well those she was deeming worthy. Such thoughts only amounted to a little relief, as Torensten was where Lightning had absorbed chaos. It was different from what she knew but that was when her soul was tainted black. The origin of the parasite, ready to sow discord through an unwitting vessel.
Tag:Caius Dragelion Theme:A Wicked Saviour Notes:Lumina text pink (thoughts in italics), Mog text blue, Parasite quoted text purple
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 14, 2023 7:39:41 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: Remnants of the Saviour, Part 1
True enough, Lumina was...a little vex, a haughty glare but when she began laughing, it was clear she held no real resentment. Likely, she just enjoyed busting his chops and seeing Serah worked up a bit. After all, the way she sang Snow's praises were adorable. Their relationship put her mind at ease and who knows, maybe made her wonder if she could do what they'd done. Such was the promise of life in her new world. As for her verbal reaction, "If I could have picked, I could do better~"
For Lumina was an excellent judge of character. She also had a way of getting people to open up and Caius had really opened the book. Strangely, she didn't expect any less of him on that front. Intuition was Lumina's guiding star given she had very little experience in terms of dating. Nor did she have the best interpersonal skills, quite frankly. A self-diagnosis on said skills would leave her standoffish attitude to blame primarily. Removing such and the restraint on emotions made her very personable. None of this explained a good point, why was she so comfortable with Caius?
In her mind, as he spoke, she had thoughts which would have made her no better Claire's classmates. "He looks a bit parched. Oh no, should I have made appetizers? Served a drink?" at one point she was very much thinking of excusing herself to do these things. What stopped her, was this overwhelming calm. One that helped to put the experience of two separate viewpoints together. Light, who had arrived on Zephon first, had countless experiences here. Enough that if Lumina wasn't careful, she'd be overwhelmed and prone to headaches until her body completely acclimated. Not that she wasn't dipping into states of being overwhelmed anyway, due to her tendency to worry. Thankfully she kept it together and portrayed a front of maturity.
Especially, when her ever observant gaze noted his body language pertaining to her first line of inquiry. Reading between the lines, with her own bias included; Lumina reckoned while Caius might have done it for anyone, this time was indeed different. She couldn't tell why of course, not without making a hypothesis but given they were holding hands prior to the incident...Lumina hoped he was thinking of her, just a little. Running with this bit of hope, made things more exciting (and surprising given she maintained her composure)! Little cues weren't missed either, as Lumina had expected Caius to say something when she paused. When he didn't she realized he was deeply reflecting on their discussion.
Caius wasn't the only one reflecting deeply, behind Lumina's words were considerations from scars that ran deep. Likely, Lumina was suffering severe imposter syndrome. How could she feel she deserved to be loved, to have happiness that any ordinary woman would desire, when even her time on Zephon, was filled with extraordinary circumstances? Ones that she wasn't sure she could work up the courage to share with Caius. Crying over being split, again, was no different from fussing over spilt milk. Yet...the strings of fate were so easy to see. Part of her had wrought destruction and gave a bad name for Outlanders across Zephon. The other part, was a freedom fighter fighting against the harsh circumstances within the parameters of the law (mostly).
Lumina could only blame the parasite for so much, illusions of grandeur and having succumbed to being the saviour, again were going to stick. Even as she'd tried so desperately to resist such impulses at every turn, knowing that part of her embraced it so completely and exposed their heart to this entire mess? Clearly, Lumina needed a vacation. Not that she could up and take one so easily. It needed to be planned and signed off on. Until then, these dates could keep her focused. Dancing, for example; could be on the table? Although she did wince at the mention of Caius stepping on Celes' feet and then nearly toppling the two of them to the ground. She just needed to wear some special shoes, with a bit of added padding for extra protection.
"It is a deeply personal thing. I'm just giving you tools to figure it out. Not unlike exploring a dark cave. Let the light from your lantern, help you to reach the innermost depths, successfully." maybe that was a bit too subtle, Lumina at least found it witty. Calling it a template might have been better, one where Lumina's own actions, her...love feelings, would offer suggestions in reciprocating. In that way, a relationship was like a dance.
"Right, let's get you fed and then I'll share my thoughts. Please wait here~" she'd instruct before pushing her chair back and gracefully getting up to return to the kitchen. She took several trips, bringing out a rather large bowl for Caius, as well as different utensils and the like. In particular, she brought a large glass, fashioned in provo given how modern it looked, that was filled with iced tea. Mog had his own bowl brought out. He'd taken up a position near Lumina and was slurping away. Her own bowl and glass of ice tea was brought out last. After she brought the pitcher to the table.
"The ramen is on a very low heat now to preserve temperature. Let me know if it's too hot, okay~?" finally, she could sit down. Which meant now she could think over her response. Lumina wanted to have a bit of fun with it, to stand out given the norm. So after taking a sip to make sure Caius wouldn't burn his tongue. She turned to face him just as before.
"In terms of etiquette, you did the right thing. You're a very considerate person after all. That said, I'm not exactly normal, so I don't mind if you ask." only if he asked, otherwise she wouldn't force the answer upon him. A lady was entitled to a few, harmless secrets after all. Hopefully, learning that he had done the right thing would make him feel better. A win in the face of inexperience, given the loses had taken their toll.
"There's something else I want to ask you. Something more important." her tone shifted from that playful, caring one she had prior. Her gaze lowered to her lap as suppressed guilt rose to the surface of her consciousness. "...I've done things, here in Zephon, that I'm not proud of. Well...I should clarify, the part of me that is Lightning did those things. Would you...be able to forgive me...?"
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 13, 2023 9:04:38 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: The Light in the Dark
“Sonora will detain you if they know and I’ve heard horrible rumors of what they do within those confines. Provo is, as always, a mixed bag. They only care about their trade… Which outlander affairs have at times interrupted.”
Lumina had a knowing smirk at the mention of Sonora and its...exploits. One that shifted into a look of gratitude as she nodded in agreement about the state of affairs. There was much of her identity in Sonora that she hadn't shared with her family or Caius. Being a woman of many codenames, what was one more alias for the list? As a certified citizen of Sonora, the stigma of Outlander didn't apply to her. In light of her recent "growth spurt", things would need to be changed. Really, she should look about Claire's age proper but that...was another story.
"Is it truly that strange~?" she responded, tilting her head and trying to look completely serious. "At least you believe me, Lorenzo didn't, not until my exploit at Mount Hotan anyway." the idea that her very youthful form provided some cover for Sonora's xenophobia was...divinely inspired, surely. Noticing the shifting glances, Lumina would add "Just about done, let's do the final step." which was combining it all and letting the noodles absorb some of the juices. Not too long as then the noodles would get soggy but just enough to flavour them with all the ingredients within the broth.
As the conversation about Snow continued, Caius brought up an interesting point. She'd have to interrupt him when he initially wondered about Snow's ability to stay focused on Serah. "Oh, he had some help. From yours truly of course. Serah can't really tell you that story because she was in crystal sleep. It's a state of...well you're not dead or alive. A preservation state and I kept her heart and soul within me. Therefore~ I made sure Snow could 'see' Serah, often." and that, along with her other antics, was why Snow considered her a devil. For Lumina, she was just having some fun.
Otherwise, she was happy to listen to his take. She nodded along, having seen quite a bit of things herself in those centuries. Nevermind her time in Sonora, which she too experienced the political intrigue, first hand. That identity, certified and all, was in part due to the tragedy of Sonora's dystopian society. No surprise then that the reason for her own earlier inquiry, was answered by Caius. It was strange because it was incomprehensible to imagine living for so long. Time, meant nothing to them, seeing as they didn't age. The curse of her dying world. Snow certainly suffered but she was damn sure not allowing him to give up on Serah. No matter how much he wished for death.
So, why was it always Sonora? Power was held in the hands of the few. Of which was distributed amongst seven corporations. The President, naturally owning one of them. In Light's New World, wars had broken out because fear of the gods was gone. The balance of power returned to mortal hands. It was as if the people had learned nothing from their dying world. Politics, the pursuit of power, the stranglehold on it once obtained. She'd opted to stay out of it. Delivering the New World for humanity was enough, policing them too? That was too much and it certainly wasn't a straight forward fight either.
Sonora then...it was different or rather, thanks to first hand experience, she got to see what her lack of participation was like. WITHOUT the memories she should have had, mind. Maybe that too was divine intervention. Was a Light that didn't want to fight useful in Zephon? Probably not. Yet now, in the face of her complete memories, she was certain that she wouldn't have let her world get to the point of Sonora. She did not fight so hard, risk everything, including the chance to be reunited with Serah; to see the world become like Sonora. Just thinking about it, Lumina couldn't even muster the anger she normally held for Gods playing with her fate like a puppet on strings. That's just how bad Sonora was!
Might, as she surmised yesterday wasn't going to help in Sonora. It was a different kind of battle, the kind that would torment any soldier. The rules of engagement were different, often times not making any sense. One needed something or someone to ground them when taking on such a hard battle. Although Caius hadn't realized that yet, his ability to do so, was what Lumina was attracted to. It helped that he was unspoiled by many aspects of society, good and especially the bad. In his airing of grievances, the pursuit of normal was not kind to Caius. Lumina likened him to a kid trying to take Highschool certification tests, without the compulsory courses. It would be easy to pity him, in light of such thinking.
Lumina did no such thing. In spite of ribbing him a bit, she had came away from that part of their date with very different thoughts and feelings. Yesterday, she hadn't done the best job in trying to convey such. Perhaps today would be different? "I'm going to set a timer." Lumina stated after Caius' woes came to an end. He apologized for oversharing but she shook her head and proceeded to set the timer as planned. Pot covered slightly to let just a bit of steam out as the final act of ramen cooking commenced. On a low enough heat, just in case she needed more time than the timer would provide.
"Let's address these points in order, follow me, please~" she'd guide Caius outside the kitchen, motioning for Mog to follow as they went to sit down in the dining area. Far more comfortable for one, whilst Lumina thought he should definitely be sitting down for everything she was about to say. Lumina made sure to sit beside him, turning her chair slightly so she could face him as she did so.
"You should forgive yourself, for not knowing. Anyone in your shoes would react the way you did. You're probably not even the first to do so. I certainly didn't hold it against you, I found it rather endearing. Sonora...is my true powerbase, it's the city I spent my formative days on Zephon in. I've experienced the political intrigue you mentioned and further, events like those killings...is why I'm able to be there. When you reacted, I wasn't thinking that it was a faux pax social blunder. Nor did I think that you might be undermining me as a fellow warrior. What went through my mind was 'Wow, you care enough to try and protect a stranger like me?' Maybe...you'd do that for anyone, you are a hero after all but...I think it was different. I just wish I could explain why I think it's different. It's...intuition, I guess?"
Given what she said was a lot to take in. She remained quiet for a moment, to let Caius speak in turn and well, listen for the timer. "Everything you described, is just learning experience. Growing pains, you know? Granted, teenagers would be more susceptible to such but if you go so hard on yourself for experiences you didn't get to have, then how can you appreciate the opportunity to have them now? There are a lot of things I haven't experienced. Gaps in my knowledge about social etiquette. It's...an area where Serah is better than me." she paused for a moment, as if realizing that she probably should practice some of what she was preaching from now on.
"Your response to my feelings was perfect, honestly. It reminded me of how you protected me, you...value me more than I value myself. If it were someone else saying your words, I don't think I'd believe them. Courtship, is like dancing. Do you know how to dance, Caius?" admittedly, her eyes were saying 'please know how to dance' before she closed them and said, "I can teach you. The concept is easy to explain. Dancing, particularly when two people dance, is an exercise of trust. Each partner taking turns in leading. You don't know how to commit wholeheartedly, admitting such and having the desire are the first steps. I'm happy to lead you, commitment free of course. The easiest way I can do that, is to lead by example. How I treat you as I get to know you better, is the curriculum to the kind of relationship I'm certain you would give."
Having said that, she held out her left hand, ring intact. Lumina could hear the timer ticking down. "Please don't apologize, you did say you'd give me one hundred percent. It's expected that you overshare. Similarly, it's more than acceptable to talk about my feelings. I confessed so that it wouldn't be taboo to speak on after all. Now then, question~ Aren't you even a little curious on why I have feelings for you? From my perspective, you accepted them rather wholeheartedly, that has to mean something, surely?"
...and time! The timer went of with a chime that was clearly from Provo.
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 13, 2023 5:18:19 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: Reversed Return
For a brief moment, Lumina looked as if she was seriously considering Caius joke about the statue. In the end, she gave a light smile, sympathetic to the embarrassment on one hand. On the other...? "It's...good that an Outlander received such. We're losing the public vote in other regions." this candid admission, was very much spoken like a business woman. To think that in another life she was a soldier. Zephon's ability to transition others into new roles and leverage other life skills, was not to be underestimated.
As for her ribbing, she notes his squint with an innocent smile as if she couldn't possibly have been up to no good. Thinking such was positively absurd, especially for an upstanding private citizen such as herself! When he went back to work, she gave Mog a knowing look. No doubt a story for another time. For rivals they sure got along thick as thieves~
There truly was quite a difference when working with the complete personality, instead of highly focused halves, as it were. Indeed, Lightning had prominently leaked out as Lumina's ordinary calm, oft laced with mystery or eccentric allure; unraveled. Being on Zephon had allowed her to verbalize feelings, past and present. Ordinarily, she'd have been much more restrained about it. This really spoke to Caius rare achievement. One he likely didn't know he'd accomplished. To be trusted with this degree of vulnerability and honesty. If only he hadn't told Light not to worry, that was just an uphill battle.
Taking a chance to actively contemplate all she'd said, even amidst Caius' mischief, left her to let out a faint "Hmm..." How to put this carefully? She'd looked to Mog once more before resigning herself to stick to honesty. "Oh, he built those skills. He had centuries to do so and in regards to Serah? Their relationship has been challenged in...extraordinary ways. Leaving poor Snow broken after Serah's death. I'll admit they can be good for each other but I've no idea how he deals with...the terror. I mentioned having the pleasure of keeping him company while he was alone and breaking..." she paused, unable to contain her mischief.
"Apparently, I'm a Devil~" looking to her side, she giggled in amusement, covering her lips with the back of her right hand. Whatever jealousy might have inadvertently come about earlier, it was clear she received restitution! "...according to Snow, anyway." she had to add that last part, as she did insist she was an 'Angel'. With a nickname like Light, how could she not be, surely.
Having come to a conclusion about a lot of things after a much needed therapy session, she did feel lighter. Caius' moving words about it being her story to tell, left her with a slight bit of awe. Nodding, more to acknowledge what he said, rather than agreement, let her sort through her thoughts. What exactly would her story be, as an individual instead of being defined by titles and roles alike? Once she wondered if she could do such as a fragmented person. To think even whole, control of her destiny beyond the scope of fighting was so...daunting!
There was the task of forgiving herself, if she connected that with the words Caius did say, that of coming to terms with who she was. That really was it? The more she opened herself up to who she is, to put aside the pain of separation, twice over. That was the first stepping stone. Especially as there was no separate, 'other half' to blame. In truth, there never was another half to blame. That thinking seemed to be a by-product of her early time on Zephon. The more conscious of that she became, the more she healed and recovered herself. Yesterday it was her powers, what would today bring?
She pushed those thoughts aside as she stared at Caius with a quizzical expression. He said she'd have an easier time of this than he will. Was it because she had her family here? Given she was the 'go it alone' type, it was easy to take that for granted, even a little. On the other hand, in place of family, Caius had others working to supplement such. Her own sisters included, as he'd admit later regarding help. Hopefully she could be a bit more on point with what she meant as she took a deep breath.
"As I said, you're needed for more than just your strength. People appreciate you for who you are, not just the strength you can provide. That's the reason my sisters help you in their own ways. So of course, it should go without saying, I can help you in ways you haven't realized yet. Oh and I'm not talking about strength or resources, understand~?" it was nice that he appreciated her sentiment but Lumina's ambitions went beyond that.
"For example, it's hard for me to imagine myself having an easier time of 'being normal' than you. I can only think that I just want to be normal more, perhaps? To be more than what fighting allows me to be."
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 12, 2023 10:40:01 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: Reunion
How right Caius was about Zephon changing people, "...ah, I think a statue would be a bit...embarrassing. I don't help people for the praise. I do it because protecting smiles makes me happy. Might also be an instinct~ Oh but I'm sure I've got a better handle on it than you~" Lumina never did tease him for how he reacted back at the 'Haunted Manor' attraction. This was about the closest she'd get. There was also something else on her mind back then, that lingered long after she'd gotten home. Had her own instinct dulled or had she truly just felt so safe, that there was nothing to protest? Maybe she had grown soft but something told her that wasn't the case. Her adventure in the Perigosa Jungle was a fair reminder.
"Now you're starting to sound like Serah, that kind of talk must have really moved her." Snow's selflessness was admirable, if she were to admit it. That at least, wasn't why she had resented him in the past. Really, the two of them just couldn't get along initially. He just kept getting electrocuted (thankfully, not literally) due to being unable to approach her. "I can imagine it, needing the help. Times weren't so dire for us back then. Honestly, NORA, the problem I had with them was I was afraid they'd get themselves hurt or others due to their lack of experience. Worse, Snow was so carefree; pairing that with his idealist, selfless attitude...it rubbed me the wrong way. It wasn't realistic, that wasn't the thinking of an adult. How was he supposed to protect my sister with that kind of attitude?" she huffed now, even rolling her eyes. This was some much needed therapy, since she hadn't earnestly talked to anyone about these feelings.
"Then he had the nerve to try and steal my sister from me...at least, that's how it felt. I know better now, these are just...repressed feelings. How selfish of me to burden you of all people with it. I'm sorry. Your journey of growth is quite remarkable and I admire your humility. I'd never have thought you didn't know what you were doing. Talent, dedication, discipline, am I singing your praises too much, I'll stop if it's...too much." saying that, she was happy to see that sheepish smile of his. Maybe she was idolizing him a bit but how could she not? He'd managed to do something that no one else had, without incurring her protective wrath. Someway, somehow, he could approach her, like Serah could, without worry.
“It sounds like Lightning never went anywhere.”
This caused Lumina to perk up, faintly blushing as she considered it. "It's funny...Even with the amnesia, even with that fear of one day disappearing...Somehow, I've known deep inside, that this was true from the moment I got here. At times, when I was reunited with Serah, I tried to tell her. Of course, Light was here too, so...how could she believe me? I could barely believe it myself." gently, she rested her right hand along her cheek, cradling it gently. As for what she could attribute that to, she couldn't say. What she did realize, thanks to Caius words, was that feeling of Lightning being there, feeling that part of her heart, even when she was logically certain it wasn't there... That was real.
The balancing act was worrisome but she had tools in place and people she could rely on. Nodding her head she moved her hand from her cheek and went to the skillet to add some of the other ingredients, the 'toppings' as it were. With Caius adding in the noodles and getting them to the right consistency, she could get the broth going in full swing. The scents of the meat and veggies being lightly crisped, the soy sauce's gentle aroma, caused it to waft through the kitchen. Mog who had gotten a good whiff of this, seemed to perk up all the more.
Feeling Caius touch upon her arm, was reassuring, especially as the torrent of emotions she needed to navigate billowed about inside her heart. She listened rather intently and true enough, it all came down to balance. A sense of harmony that she'd failed to achieve thus far. Not being alone in such failure, was rather uplifting. There was time and room for mistakes, until eventually things were just right. Telling Serah wasn't just the proper thing to do but what she wanted to do. "I just need to find the time to sit down with her. Preferably in a more relaxed setting. Then I'll be able to tell her and I think it might ease some of the pain she's been feeling. Even with Claire here, she's not the Light that Serah has come to know." Lumina pauses after saying this, a spark of realization in her eyes.
"Maybe I've just been too hard on myself?" no sooner did Mog chime in. "Serah has never resented you for how you turned out. She loves you as you were and as how you are. Everything will be fine, kupo~ Now, about eating..."
Mog was right but his timing, it did make her laugh and rather earnestly at that. "Soon. Getting the broth just right is the most important step. For now, can I trust both of you to keep this a secret? I want to do this correctly." as to what correctly entailed, well it had to be a favourable mood, a comfortable setting. Maybe over dinner? Serah did have her 'mission' to go on soon...
Reaching for a ladle, she'd begin to stir the pot getting the brought thick but not too much so. "Thank you Mog, thank you, Caius. I feel like I understand this fear better now." the ability to verbalize her concerns and realizing how it all interconnected, was a wonderful clarity to have.
"I've struggled to forgive myself, to acknowledge the mistakes I made. I thought that here in Zephon, I should work towards Serah's forgiveness but...there was nothing to forgive. Even so, I wanted to be more like how she remembered me. The more I did that, the more she missed who I became. Being a complete person, a proper human being? It's really hard!" confessing that sounded so outrageous, yet it made her laugh all the same.
"Being normal is hard." she reiterates, trying to hold back the laughter and take her own remarks seriously. "Yet we still need to do it, otherwise we're missing out on life. I wouldn't wish my regrets on anyone. Caius, it shouldn't only remind you about what you're fighting for but that you're needed and wanted, for more than just your strength alone. I'm glad my sisters have been able to help you. Who knows, maybe I'll be able to help you too." though she hadn't a clue how, she knew she was more than willing at least.
At the moment, the help was largely one sided and even though she was beyond grateful, little insecurities were rising to the surface. What if she was too clingy? Did she come off as desperate or insincere? Why was this harder than killing gods?! Was it too soon to ask for a hug? Maybe she should wait on that one? These feelings did feel a bit chaotic, sure. Even so, this was nothing she couldn't handle if she paced herself.
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 12, 2023 2:09:19 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: Growing Pains Changing Pains.
Speculating what Claire was thinking was starting to become quite a bit of fun for Lumina. There was something very humbling to relearning from her. "If she could see your place, it might give her some pause at first, only to adjust and resume her desired goal." Having concluded that, Lumina was enjoying this conversation for something more deeply personal. The insights Caius shared about himself helped her to develop a more comprehensive idea of who he was. What he valued, preferences, circumstances of his life; previously and on Zephon. The bit of tact he expressed in order to not give a negative impression. Lumina wouldn't have assumed the worse about his living quarters all the same, though she noted he was certainly learning.
Briefly, Lumina wondered what her own place said about her? Was it frivolous, for example? If she hadn't told him prior that she did this all for Serah, what kind of impression would her home have given? Sure, she let her passion sweep her a bit due to artistic expression. Largely, it just helped to fill the lonely void in her heart. Years later, this place was filled with life now. The kitchen they were in, reflected their childhood home through a Torensten lens. Something old, something new; a nice wedding gift for arriving in a new world. All setup to accommodate having a family, eventually.
Naturally, there was nothing in her plan that involved having her own family. As if she'd taken it as a given that she'd be a bachelorette for the rest of her days. Aunt's did have all the fun, that much was for sure. Except even that version of events wasn't what she anticipated in setting this all up. For this was a home where she wasn't meant to exist. Fate's intervention facilitated in this unlikely yet wholesome affair. A world where she could experience trivial moments like joking about someone special asking for her number. "I won't deny that I'm lucky." her tone is briefly somber but she smiles, cherishing this simple moment.
Taking from her Zephon experiences then, she couldn't help but giggle when Caius remarked about the nature of the Courier business. In moments like this, she felt Fate's steady hand left for no coincidence. "From time to time, I delivered stuff too. Mostly to and from rich clientele, perks of having an airship." if she remembered right, she facilitated the exchange of trade agreements more than once. In those days, Provo was her base of operations more so. She couldn't help feeling some nostalgia, for that was nearly two years ago now. The freedom to go where she wanted, that's what Radiance on High symbolized.
"Talking with you, reminds me of how much life experience I've gained being in Zephon." if she could sum up her nearly two years of freedom, she'd adapted remarkably well. Relying on friends and co-workers, especially those who had taken a chance on a 'kid like her', led her to a string of accomplishments. Not all of them by the books and whilst she'd soon come to rebuke Snow's vigilantism, Lumina had also gotten a taste of that, thanks to Zephon.
New experiences, that's what this was all about, even brief teases of intimacy. The normalcy of it was what Lumina craved the most. In Zephon, she had made her own choices and whilst she was guided by the idea of protecting Serah and preparing for her arrival in a new world. If Lumina was honest, hadn't she enjoyed every minute? Never once had she failed to enjoy the moments she was making here. Arguably, the 'fun' she had was fueled by a self-imposed timer. One which spelt her eventual demise, only for such to be averted completely. Having resolved not to do things half-heartedly anymore, meant if she wanted to continue experiencing cute moments that made her feel like a normal woman, instead of a saviour... She'd have to fight, eventually.
"...I think, us not getting to converse back then, just meant it wasn't time. Fortunately, you could also interpret it as foreshadowing us working together in the future. I'll make sure to do more than record what I showed you. Your partner will need something to look for, I'll make sure she sees the evidence in the transmission too. A detective's job isn't over if one of the suspects is at large." her tone was playful or she tried to be but underneath the politeness, that 'case' still bothered her. It had become one of two points of contention, calls to battle, that she kept putting off due to her fatalistic worldview. How much of this was she seriously planning on handing off to Light when she "felt better", truly? As of yesterday, there would be no graceful exit, stage right.
Light, wouldn't have saw what she saw in Caius. She established as much yesterday but hadn't dived deeper. Why?"It's one thing to recognize strength, it's another to accept being vulnerable in front of those who are strong. It takes trust, a level of comfort, and a willingness to bring those walls down for a stranger." In the face of such growth, she could no longer accept how she had been, here in Zephon. To be so passive and willing to quietly, if inevitably leave Claire and Serah. That was wrong! When had she become such a coward? She had more courage and conviction when she tried to convince Light to rebel against Bhunivelze. Now however, her own hesitation wasn't so dissimilar to Lightning's hesitation back then. Light wanted to stay the safe course, because there was security to it. Bhunivelze promised to bring Serah back, that was a level of stability she'd never gotten to enjoy previously. That she couldn't explain that in her protests to Mog, left her surprised when Caius interrupted to confess a contradictory stance.
Mog, wiggled about excitedly whilst he floated. This shocking twist was making this moment extra special, for him at least. All he needed was a snack. Contrast to Lumina who wasn't thrilled and even pouted. It was brief, a flash of childishness only to be left with a look of brooding. The proverbial storm cloud that threatened to come over Lumina, vanished immediately when she heard his reasoning. "Speaking as that former law enforcement, it is quite tedious." she had to confess that much but she felt better.
"You two are different. Even if you are similar in ways on the surface. You arrived at that place, because of dark circumstances in your life. Snow, arrived at that place because of idealism. He had no idea what he was doing, the loss that builds character; gives strength and credibility to your word. There's also a...sense of stability, that I see in you, I guess. That's why...I trust you. With you, I genuinely feel like I don't have to do anything alone."
"OH! So, that's it, kupo! Caius is really reliable, so you believe you can trust him with anything, because you two are similar, kupo! Never thought I'd see the day."
"You're learning, Mog." Lumina had to confess but she couldn't hide her smile all the same. When she looked to Caius then, she looked a bit nervous but she wasn't going to back down now. "About yesterday..." this was where her thoughts had been, the weakness she felt and the resolve to set aside what she was starting to feel was cowardice and guilt.
"I wasn't...being entirely honest about fighting. I was just really conflicted and I wasn't entirely sure what was holding me back, until now." the embarrassed look on her face was easy to see but she didn't look away. "...I was afraid. Before I had learned the truth about myself, I had been living with the guilt of my past. The time I lost with Serah. I promised I wouldn't go looking for trouble and fighting as a one woman army, again. I want my sister to have the chance to shine, to value this life that we have in Zephon, the same as we would in our homeworld. I was...and still am, afraid of undermining her. I...still haven't told her the truth about Light and myself. I'm afraid that if she knew...it'd break her heart. That I'm not sure which of 'us' she'd miss. Fighting, would make me feel...more like Light. I got by almost two years without needing to fight with her methods. I guess I'm afraid of myself too." sighing, she'd close her eyes and cross her arms beneath her chest. It was one thing to fear disappearing, without a trace. That fear left her yesterday in a very surreal moment. In it's place, was a new fear; the fear of change.
"...There's one fight I can't sit out. Sonora and the good people of that city, oppressed by their leaders, took me in when I had no where to go. It'll be the harvest season soon, my company and I have been preparing to change things. There's no way I'd let my friends fight alone." when she opened her eyes, she had a look of resolve that was uncharacteristic for the side of her that people had come to expect. Yet it perfectly suited a complete and whole, Claire Farron.
"A new dawn will come for Sonora." one far more radiant than the dystopia they endured. She didn't need the merger to feel this way, for this had always been her thoughts and feelings. What the merger did do, was set things into perspective. Giving her the strength to truly help her friends.
Post by Claire Farron on Apr 11, 2023 13:05:47 GMT -6
"Road to Dawn"
Light Saga: Two Hearts
Thinking about Claire's habits, was a bit like reminiscing on old times. It's not as if she actually was so crazy about spending. Not with their widowed Mother caring for them. So why was she so confident? "She might if you spoil her. Claire likely has an idea of how much you can spend and therefore knows you can spend accordingly." the situation would be completely different if Caius couldn't afford it. In that way, she'd go to Lumina and turn her into a veritable sugar momma.
The first step to acquiring said sugar momma, was to get her number. After Lumina explained her theory, without needing her notes no less. Caius had asked if she had a Link Crystal. Did she have a Link Crystal? Given the nature of her Torensten business... Well, she stood there, with a mischievous look, extending her right palm before speaking up. "Oh? So we've progressed to the stage where you're comfortable asking me for my number~? I do love making progress." with a flash of light and shadow, her own Link Crystal manifested. Though that's not all she'd do, as she soon extended her left palm and in a similar fashion, manifested her phone.
"I can be quite accessible, see~?" despite her lighthearted quips, having these items were mandatory so she could coordinate with her crew and Lorenzo respectively. Now, as for the reason why he asked to begin with? That was simple enough, "I'm guessing your Co-Lead is at the Provo branch. Letters between the two are pretty slow, unless you pay one of the couriers to use an Airship." as she'd mentioned to Jules' hired mercenary in the past, she was quite familiar.
Dismissing both her communication devices for now, Lumina was happy to veer off into more non-business related shenanigans. Having received an off hand compliment, Lumina felt compelled to know if he liked her with glasses more or without. Caius answer was not unexpected, him leaning so close that their noses touched!? That absolutely was unexpected! He'd so nonchalantly left her there, red as a tomato, with her heart audibly beating. Preparing food without a care in the world, while Lumina was genuinely speechless. Meekly then, a complete 180 to her prior confidence, she went back to preparing the ramen. Getting the dough together, preparing it and rolling the noodles accordingly. The repetitive action was a good way to bring her heart rate back down to something sensible.
"I'd have never guessed you'd resort to that given your composure while we freed the others." lives were genuinely at stake, with the added caution of magic, why not break some more stuff. "I'm glad you made it out fine." though she hoped he'd not take such added risks in the future. Given her comparison of him to Snow, he absolutely would. Still, they did differ in a variety of ways, which she looked to Mog, ready to protest. Only to hear his cheeky remark about handing him over to Serah. It was certainly effective in silencing her for a moment. Her expression shifted into one of deep contemplation before she closed her eyes and smiled.
"She'll just have to wait for her hero to arrive." came Lumina's reply eventually. She was a mix of flustered as well as overly cautious. He did ask her for time after all. So she wasn't trying to press her desire, nor would she give Caius up to Serah of all people."Would you like to put the noodles into the pot~?" strategic sidestep, complete with real sidestep to make room near the stove. Pivot to look towards Mog, floating ever so smugly...
"No Mog, we don't have a shared type. Caius is responsible, considerate, doesn't over promise and certainly doesn't rush into things. Also, he's not a vigilante..." one who caused her trouble during a patrol no less. Quite frankly, in Lumina's mind the two were night and day different. Minus the small observation she pointed out herself, of course.
