LOCKED TO MERIDIAN

[leicesters]

[Claude's communion prescence has always been like a summer breeze; warm, easygoing, albeit difficult to read before it moves on. Now it has more of a brittle, bitter quality, like a looming dust-cloud he has to hold at a distance. There's no going back from this point when he knows things will only escalate from here, and so now seems like an important time to address his fellow Meri.]

The fight for the next Oracle will be on us soon. The Tribune may have been slain, but he entrusted the future of the worlds to us. Though he won't be able to help us see this through, we can still fight for him, and all the others we've lost along the way. We can fight for Springstar... and we can fight for Quetzalcoatl.

[There's a brief pause on this point. Her death deserves respect and acknowledgement, and she may not be the last to meet such a fate before the fighting is over.]

...We'll fight for your homes, too. After all, our worlds aren't that different, right? They might be flawed in their own ways, and there might even be some of you who would rather stay here when this is done. But every world and the life on it is precious, and it beats whatever phony world Yima and her followers come up with.

Speaking of Yima: I've discussed this with a few people already, but I suspect she's still alive. When the Blight almost destroyed Kenos, somehow she was still around. When I asked her about it, she said she wasn't bound by time like a normal person is. She can exist in different times and different places simultaneously; I don't know how it works, but maybe she even foresaw this attempt on her life before it even happened.

That said, it's just speculation, so we might as well play dumb and behave towards Zenith as if we're convinced she's dead for now. It'll be easier for us that way.

[Others have probably arrived at a similar conclusion, perhaps people among Zenith's ranks too, but it bears saying, particularly for those newly arrived to the conflict.]

Anyway, enough about her -- how about we use this opportunity for a little strategy get-together? We have a few new faces around, so feel free to introduce yourself and your capabilities.

For those of us who have been around longer, feel free to toss in an introduction too. More importantly, share what you know about Zenith and its current capabilities, in combat or otherwise. Any insight into their current thinking would be useful right now, too. What's their morale like? We know by now that some of them really hate our guts, and I wonder how much their desire for revenge is going to play into the next battle...

[He sounds casual, almost flippant, but there's a serious point in there he's sure he doesn't need to overstate: the more loyal Zenites are going to have some serious motivation in the next battle to get back at them, whether they believe Yima is gone or not.]

Let's not let our own judgement be clouded by revenge, even if we've sustained losses. We need to go into this with a clear head, looking toward the future.

Oh-- on that note, Hayame wants to speak with some of you about some further strategising either before or after the Oracle. Sorry that's a little vague, but I'm sure she'll talk to you about it properly when the time comes. For now, let's just focus on one thing at a time.

Comments

INTRODUCTIONS

[leicesters]

[dreamflowers]

[Jade's aura is of saltwater and regret.

[Once the dark cold passes, there is a strange calm, until the woman herself speaks:]

So, uh. Hi. No fancy speeches here, just Jade -- my name.

[Really nailing this thing.]

Anyways, since I was already in the middle of trying to stop a world-ending event from wiping out humanity and lunatics who believed we were better off letting said thing happen... Meridian just made the most sense to me. So here I am. Hi. Again.

[Yeah, that's it. No other reason.]

Hm, what else? [Maybe something she can actually add to the table?]

My capabilities...

[A long, reluctant pause.]

In my world, I, um... became something known as the Prophetess. No relation to your "Oracles" here, as I understand it now. [So she feels a little more comfortable sharing this information.] No, it's not a religion thing -- I'm a bloody heathen atheist and hated that title. I just have visions sometimes. [Sigh.] I'm sharing this in the event that, should one of those come to pass now that I'm Harmonized and shit, I might be able to share... something? To somebody? But I wouldn't hold my breath, honestly. [Being disappointment incarnate is pretty much her thing.]

These days I specialize a lot in magic. If I kinda look like a skeleton or get sick sometimes, don't worry -- that's normal where I'm from, and I've got ways of dealing with that.

[Maybe she should save openly sharing the specificities of her more dubious magical practices for when she's more settled in this world. Let's see. What is she missing?]

Ah. Guess when I'm not hurling lightning bolts or fixing up doors, I've a hand for infiltration. [Which will make her little excursions into places where Meris aren't very welcome that much easier, but that's more or less the unspoken part.]

Bottom line is... I prefer range and discretion, and I'm willing to make myself useful this time.

[AMA?]

[hauntedking]

...if you can get glimpses of possible futures, that could be useful. Although I hesitate to ask you to strain yourself if it's not strictly needed.

Hayame

[warmare]

Thank you, Claude. I will speak to some of you imminently. In private.

[... If no one but him notices how incredibly insane it is that she says that publicly, then, that's just fine by her! But also... Is this even the same woman who spoke on Communion earlier? The sense of her seems... calmer, and warmer. Warm like Meridian feels.]

My name is Hayame, if you are new enough not to know it. I will not waste your time with much talk, since I have so recently said my piece. My stance on this faction, and our enemies, should be more than clear.

But as for what you may count upon me for in an actual Oracle trial,

I am a warrior- an archer, primarily, but when need be I wield a naginata just as well. You will find me on the front lines, where a warrior ought to be. If you require aid against a Zenite you cannot handle yourself, you may attempt to call upon me. I am a jinba, so you need not fear how fast my hooves can carry me. As long as we do not find ourselves stuck in some godforsaken maze again.

More importantly... I have come into a new ability. I would speak on it in detail for you, but far too many weak-willed people can hear this, so allow me to simply say that it may be able to rob some of our more powerful enemies of their advantages. If the more trustworthy among you are curious, I will speak with you on it.

And as a courtesy, if I bring it to bear in an Oracle trial... I will alert you via Communion to clear the area.

[damnpire]

D.

[This absolutely atrocious and stony introduction, help girl.

It's really all he gives for the people who don't know him, his name and a deep and soft voice coming out of a dim and chilly place of mind.]

I'm a vampire hunter.

[He's not a braggart, and so he feels this is enough to say what he's capable of without handing out a bunch of information.]

[hauntedking]

I've been here quite a while at this point, so most of you know probably know me. I am Dimitri Blaiddyd, King - or former king, I suppose - of Faerghus and a united Fodlan. I am a soldier and a warrior and have been one for most of my life, even if I would rather have spent my time doing anything else but war.

[ There's a wry chuckle there. ]

I am skilled with a lance and since my arrival have picked up some magic - mostly healing, if you need it. Should you need assistance in any matter, please do not hesitate to ask.

[leicesters]

Should I have started with introductions before I talked people's ears off? Ah, well.

You can call me Claude. I'm an archer, and battlefield permitting, I prefer to ride a wyvern into combat. So if you see a white fire-breathing beast in the skies, hold your fire and make sure you're not hitting my trusty steed, okay?

Aside from that, I'm experienced in commanding troops, strategising, and diplomacy... but, well, we know how that last one turned out. [haha... ha] Anyway, feel free to talk to me if you ever want to talk tactics.

[annmorous]

[oh god this is embarrassing, can you feel the cringe through the communion... but she should probably say something, so:]

Uh... Hey! I'm Ann Takamaki. I was just a normal high schooler back home, so...

[She's still on the fence about how much she trusts anyone here, but she does relent a little to add a slightly more honest response.]

I'm pretty sneaky, though. And I can help you with magic if you get hurt.

[a_noble_flame]

[Alice's aura comes through warm and comforting for now. Her mental image in communion is vague and fuzzy, though the flames that always lick at her heels are easily seen.

Given this is an introduction she gives it in full -- posture straight as befitting a soldier.]

I am Second Lieutenant Alice L. Malvin of the Imperial Army State Section III. My section is also known as 'Pumpkin Scissors', devoted to war relief and rooting out the causes of corruption within and outside as well. My justice is equal for all, whether Emperor or civilian -- no one is higher than another.

[She pauses a moment. It had little bearing here of course but for the sake of full introductions:]

I am the youngest daughter of one of the thirteen noble families of the Empire. My great-grandfather's deeds during the war between my country and the Republic of Frost granted my family the honor of a title. My own actions in contest between our branch families earned me the L in my name.

[That's probably a bit much, isn't it? There's the feel of flustered heat before Alice laughs a little. Even her laugh sounds warm.]

Forgive me, I wish to be thorough here. As for abilities I am chiefly skilled in swords -- I asked about commissioning a weapon through communion some days ago. I have primarily used a short sword and a swordbreaker, at times in tandem and at times alone. I also have experience in mounted combat; my horses unfortunately haven't followed me -- Piro and Ace.

[Her voice dips gently.]

They are very good mounts. I have been beside both since they day they were born. Piro is the more gentle of the two so chiefly it is Ace who joins me in the field. I --

[She's rambling now. Ahem.]

I have little experience with magic though I have been taught a few spells in the last few days. I welcome those who wish to train with me whether through sparring or physical exercise. Through supporting one another I believe we may conquer whatever comes our way and see an end to this conflict.

[sheezit]

[ Shez's communion presence is dark as far as the eye can see, but comfortable and warm like the feeling of being perfectly bundled up in an endless wintry night. The sound of water that follows isn't the usual gentle swaying, though; today, it's heated to a boil, bubbling up to surface in the shape of vaporizing energy! ]

Aw yeah, introduction time! The name's Shez, and I'm a mercenary from Fodlan. Strategy isn't my strongest suit, but if you need a tough pair of blades or a bit of [ dark ] magic, I'm your guy! Oh, and if you're in a pinch and need an emergency exit-- well, y'know those teleporting cornerstones? I'm kinda like that. Just give me a holler and I'll get you right out!

[ Wait. ]

As long as we're not trapped in a maze like last Oracle trial, I mean.

[ ... wait. ]

... or if I'm not too familiar with the place and I get lost on my way. That happens sometimes.

[ His vigorous head shake to get back on track is real, but the cheerleader pompom dance is figurative only, very much a Vibes thing! ]

Point is, if Meridians need any help, don't hesitate to call me!

[faceripper]

[ For once, Fane makes his “appearance” in Communion match what he is truly looks like. Considering the confusion it had caused the last Oracle, he’s at least learned to swallow that bit of annoyance and drop his preferred presentation. So, rather than a handsome, elven man, today you’re getting… a skeleton. ]

Well, I am Fane. I am an accomplished scholar of magic, especially that which bound together my world, but unfortunately, much more relevant here is that I am an accomplished magic user as well. I am no stranger to battle, and I’ve both Aerothurgy and Necromancy at my disposal along with Sourcery. I have a variety of offensive spells at my disposal, but a fair amount that are also meant to be supportive of front-line fighters as well. So, I would prefer to accompany someone if possible in this upcoming battle. I’m used to supporting an archer and an assassin, but I can make do with a warrior just as well.

[ A pause, and then with a sigh: ]

And before anyone asks an inane question, yes, this is what I look like. And no, I am not undead. Please save any barbaric aggression for the Zenites we’ll slay.

[clockpunk]

[ the clarity of chrono's communion is, as always, high definition. even though he's basically just leaving a voice message here. ]

Oh, hey! I'm, uh, Chrono?

[ bro it's your own name don't pose it like a question????? anyway ]

The home I'm from didn't have magic or anything, so a lot of this power stuff is kinda new. That said, uh, I forgot until I got my deck back the other day that I actually kinda do have a thing? It's not somethin' I used much back home, since it kinda hurts, but I can sort of like... summon some friends of mine. Somethin' to do with being the "Singularity"...

[ super useful explanation chrono good job. instead of explaining further, he just provides quick mental images of the twelve zodiac time beasts. ]

The ones I summon aren't the original guys, just-- ah man, I can't explain it well. The point is, they can help out in an emergency! I can't maintain 'em long, but it's somethin' at least. I can shield and heal and throw a punch pretty good, too.

[ he goes quiet for a moment, contemplating whether he should even say the next part. but he sighs and soldiers on. ]

While war like this is... overwhelming, I've been in some pretty big fights before. World-ending stuff. [ his last memory before being woken up from the tree was exploding a deity, so. ] So a lot of this isn't all that new, honestly. Yeah.

Anyway this sucked, but if you've got any questions for me I'm happy to answer 'em.

[furibund]

[ She's mostly here to listen, to see if anyone says anything of real interest. But she knows better than to be that weirdo standing in the back not saying anything. Probably. ]

My name is Nebula.

[ Useful. ]

And I [ was ] am a Guardian of the Galaxy. That applies even now. So long as I live, I will fight to return all of us to our homes. Know that anyone who claims to make a better world is a psychopath who will deem to destroy that same world the moment it's no long their favorite toy.

Do not trust any Zenith who claims they will. They won't.

[escardos]

Hey guys! You can call me Flat— Flat Escardos!

[ flat’s presence is empty and hollow, but the jovial beat in his voice and thoughts is very much real. ]

Hmm, abilities… I’m a mage! I can buff allies, debuff enemies, and heal injured people, among a bunch of other things. And I’m a really good scout. In video game terms, you could say that I’m a support unit.

[ good luck understanding that, not modern nerds! ]

Oh, but I’m nooo good at physical fighting. So good luck everyone else!

[fishfearme]

[He is the white noise in your walls, that's how he feels in the Communion, just shy of obtrusive and lurking on the fringes. He observes other people introduce themselves, and feels like people are being rather loose and fast with their capabilities. He understands that they're all allies, but still, just as many are strangers, in a way.

So, in short, succint words, he introduces himself thus:]

Byleth Eisner, mercenary. Swordsman and practitioner of magic, with the ability to shapeshift into a draconic form. I am also an avid writer of romance stories.

[One capability is not like the others.]

[redsoil]

Thank you all for your assistance in driving Meridian's message into the hearts of Zenith.

[ Despite the positive nature of the declaration, Set's manner is — different, now. Burning hotter than ever, and a little more steadied. If anything, he might seem a little older. But really, the truth is that he's settled into himself; there's a little more nobility in his tone, less chaos-mongering glee. ]

I am Set, god of war and Archon Strategos to the Church of Helios. My strengths are exceptionally versatile, ranging from sheer power to my millennia of wisdom and experience. I understand that I have been a difficult individual to count among your numbers, and I do not deny that I will continue to be disagreeable.

However, I am at the heart of things, an ally to Meridian. I always have been, and my intention remains to return to my home — I know it still exists, as I recently received memories of experiences I had not lived at the time of my arrival to Kenos. My reputation and methods may be unsavory, but you can no longer deny I am effective.

I will provide you tactics, targets and methods that will help us achieve victories not just in the time of Oracles, always.

Liem Talbott

[sterngaze]

[Liem’s presence in communion is quiet, contained, but distinct; a full moon reflected in water; a candle flame shining through the dark.]

For those of you who are recently arrived, I am Liem Talbott, previously based in the country of Taldor: Priest of Abadar’s church, Decurion of Springstar. I arrived here nearly a year and a half ago, and have served Meridian for most of that time, though I also frequent Alenroux to assist the people there.

What knowledge, expertise, and status I’ve gathered here, I will gladly leverage should you have need for it. I have ties to the Church of Helios and am very familiar with Kenos’s markets. You may also rely on my blade and my bow in the face of danger.

[wolfish]

Introduction time, huh?

[ Typically, Yuri doesn't go in for this sort of thing. With good reason, he'd say, seeing as someone could trade sides at any time, have their sympathies plied, and give away information that puts one at a severe disadvantage or leads to death.

So far, he's managed to fly under the radar for the most part by his own assessment. His more serious battles either aren't remembered or his opponents have vanished by now, so there doesn't appear to be a target on his back, so far as he knows.

He'd be happy to keep it that way, convenient as it is, so what first precedes actual words is a calculated sense of reservation. ]

I know a little bird or two might've said otherwise by now, but call me Yuri. [ His true name is reserved for very few, and it feels strange hearing Regulus from just anybody, let him live. ] I'd be the guy you want if a job involves stealth.

[ He uses stealth as an umbrella term, not that he clarifies as much. ]

But I'm an able hand in a fight. I don't miss with throwing weapons or spells. From what I've observed, I'm among the more advanced with healing magic on our side. Happen to cover ground quickly, so if you need it, you can call on me.

[ex_fend346]

[ If Communion can convey the impression of a very polite bow, then it would, because Subaru is nothing if not a polite little vampire. ]

I've never made a formal introduction before... [ A very strong start, that. ] But my name is Subaru. I'm a vampire, and I was born this way, since that's been a source of confusion.

[ Yes, he's absolutely leading with this. No vampiric self-hatred here. Of note, Flat was excited rather than confused. ]

I'm stronger and more resilient than a human, and much longer-lived. My experience is probably the most useful strength I have, judging by what others have said about themselves... Though I can also sense power, or whether someone is not human.

[ This isn't even half of the weird grab-bag of miscellaneous abilities clampires possess, but it's what he thinks of. ]

I'd prefer not to harm anyone outside of necessity.

[appeale]

I'm Rudbeckia. [ no surname, not anymore. ] As the High Priestess of Set, my main duty is to him, but I also try to help those like me: civilians who are uninvolved in the conflict.

[ those familiar with Ruby will find her presence somewhat changed; while her fear and anxiety remains, and it still feels as though she could flee from you at any moment, there is something that bolsters her now. she takes comfort in the warm, red sands that surround her. ]

I don't participate. You can yell at me all you want, but I'm just an ordinary, weak person who wouldn't be able to fight back anyway. It would be throwing my life away – especially now, when I'm sure our Shards will no longer be safe.

I'll help where I can. But I have no desire to make myself a target when I can't protect myself, and I would only be a burden if I needed someone to always keep me safe. [ there is something else she doesn't say, that nonetheless lingers in Communion: that she would not trust a single Meridian besides Set to actually protect her to that extent. ] So, I won't stand against Zenith. I'll make myself friendly to their Shard-Bearers, in the same insignificant way that I am to all of you.

That's all. Good luck to you all in the Oracle trial.

[cyfaredd]

Wizard Howl.

I introduced myself a short while ago, so I won't repeat what I said then.

[ there's something of a mental shrug, disturbing the metaphorical cloud of cologne that follows Howl even in Communion. ]

But, I can assist with some preparation for this "Oracle," at least. Please visit me if you're in need of anything magic-related.

[gravings]

[ PUBLIC SPEAKING NO!!!!!!!! It never gets easy... ]

Um, hello. My name is Gray... I'm a gravekeeper.

[ Should she say more? Probably. But she's really just relieved she got past that much without stuttering. ]

[wolof]

I should hope most know of me by now, but if you do not, you behold the gem of the deserts, Akua Sahelian, Calamity.

[ It's with a note of formality, the impression of a lift of her chin. Haughty, and discerning. ]

I am a once-in-a-generation talent, a Sorceress of great renown, and one who has drawn the attention and beseeched both gods and nascent gods. I assisted Set with building his device, and used my magic to harness the power of the sun to rain fire and heat upon the cold heart of Highstorm. [ It is said with pride. ]

There is nothing I will not do, to prevent Zenith from destroying what worlds remain, but do not look to me for kindness, or mercy. I am a Villainess, and a guide to those who walk the darker path, and gods of darkness and evil. I offer my assistance to Meridian for this alone, but do call on me if you wish to lay waste to the Zenites.

(´。＿。｀)

[narsinssist]

You wish me to introduce myself? Amongst our Meridian members, both new and old?

You may call me Raphael, of a now lost realm that is merely one part of a grand cosmology. [ Merely one part. It's fucking hell. ]

I am with Meridian for one reason alone — to see my realm returned. [ So that he can conquer it. ]

I will assist if necessary, but will not do so for free. Should you require a... helping hand, or perhaps a true intervention, you need only speak my name, and I will arrive, to assist you. I am quite mobile, after all, and should we parlay appropriately, I can assure you that you will be greatly satisfied with my services. A virtuous man once said of the arrangement I offer: He’ll give you all you want and more. And what does he want in exchange? Just a little thing—a trifle, really. And it won’t affect you in the slightest.

I do enjoy it when others express things much more frankly than I.

[umurice]

[Despite all he's experienced here, his aura is very bright and positive! Maybe because he finally made a decision after all those weeks of not knowing what to do. Kind of like an excitable puppy, really.]

Umu! I am Amagi Hiiro, now one of your fellow Meridian! I look forward to working together with everyone in attaining our collective goal.

I do not have much to offer, but if anyone wishes to learn combat, please let me know. I am trained in the art ot Amaterasu Ookami Style. It is a martial art of my village, but since I am the only one left, it would be worth teaching it to others.

[And there's melancholy there, because he doesn't know if he will ever get to see his village again, but just in case...]