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?]

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.]

VOID HORRORS

[damnpire]

I advise to be aware during the next Oracle of what I found inside of Cyrus's body. A hungry force of something like entropy.

[Not to distraction from an attempt at the Oracle. It just doesn't help to have something else hanging over the whole ordeal.]

A few who were dissipated in the last Oracle had dreams or visions which aligned to what I experienced. If you also experience anything unusual during or after the competition, let me know.

[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.

THE LIST

[hauntedking]

While I have been reluctant to speak of or contemplate turning this into a war to the death, I no longer think it is possible to win this fight and restore what has been lost without grappling against those who hold ideals utterly opposed to our own. No matter if they have good reasons for them or not...

[ There's a moment of silence and thoughtful regret. ]

I have had to kill before and in this case... some of the individuals serving Zenith I believe are too dangerous to be allowed to continue as they are. While I believe shattering a shard, especially here, is the equivalent of killing... in war we must be prepared to kill. Especially if the ideals our opponents cling to lead them to a barren and fruitless place.

There are several among Zenith who should be shattered if you find yourself capable of doing so - whether because they are too dangerous to be allowed to oppose us or because there is no compromise or peace possible with them.

[ As he lists names, indistinct mental images filter through the bond. Although probably clear enough to make these people recognizable. ]

Amos. He is utterly dedicated to Zenith and has no compunction about killing.

Gen. He is... lost in his own misery and willing to take it out on everyone around him. Likewise dedicated to the Zenith cause.

Sebastian. A rather dangerous demon who has no compunction about inflicting pain and harm on others.

Silco. A egotistical madman - there is little more to be said about him. He publicly shattered the shard of one of our own only a few weeks ago.

These four come to my mind most strongly... and I would rather avoid shattering others unless it can absolutely be avoided or unless they prove themselves utterly intractable to reason.

SEBASTIAN

[wolof]

Shall I start us off with one of the most dangerous threats Zenith has at their disposal? Sebastian is a powerful demon who has a wealth of powers at his disposal.

I've fought him once in combat, and while I am a sorceress of some great capability, he erred on the side of physical confrontation. An interesting thing to note, but that was some time ago. I do not doubt that he is far more dangerous than simply that.

Do not confront him if you are not prepared for it. In fact, should you find yourself cornered, I recommend myself or Set to extract you from danger.

[ She communes. Sipping tea. With Sebastian next to her. 😇 Good thing nobody who didn't know is at her house. ]

[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.

[warmare]

[Hayame has locked down everything as best as she is able in order to enevitably have this conversation, to discuss that demon without baring her own weakness. But an Iconoclast will be able to feel some of it.

The painful, burning rage that has not much abated since the night an eye was implanted in her head. (Actually... is it hotter?)]

And I recommend myself.

[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!

SHADOWS

[annmorous]

Everyone's seen how creepy the shadows are in Springstar by now, right? One tried grabbing me, but when I tried fighting it off, nothing worked!

[what good is a persona without being able to fight shadows, smh...]

I managed to run away, but what should we do? I'm worried the problem will get way worse if we ignore it.

not here

[cutlery]

[ and WHO MADE THAT TEA, AKUA??? Sebastian is decidedly Not Participating in this entire post, but Akua does gets a mildly withering look irl ]

[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.

[leicesters]

This goes without saying, but I'd count him in the 'hungry for revenge' squad, too. Whoever tampered with his pet Shard [Sebastian already said it wasn't a pet, he's just being obnoxious smh] needs to be careful.

Then again, it doesn't matter if none of us were responsible -- what matters is his perception, not the truth. Make sure you don't end up on the wrong side of him.

[a_noble_flame]

[What a heavy thought, particularly for Amos. Not that she knows him intimately of course but that wounded heart of his ... a cycle that just keeps repeating itself. Gen ... well, she's not quite sure what to make of him.]

Understood.

[hauntedking]

This might be related to whatever it is that's... out there. But I don't currently have a solution. Matt was floating some ideas when I spoke to him... unfortunately, he's chosen to align himself with Zenith.

+ more Sebastian

[warmare]

As disgusted as I to need continue saying this-- I will. Whether I must speak to those with disloyal hearts or simple ignorance in their newness, allow me to provide you with more... actionable information.

That demon goes by the name Sebastian Michaelis now, but that is no guarantee that he will not skulk under some other disguise. He has gone by at least two others before, and who knows how many he might have in reserve, either to spy upon us or serve that rat thing in Kowloon.

Mark that when I say "demon", I am not speaking to that thing's sadistic and disgusting nature. I mean he comes from the pit of one of the sixteen hells and literally dines upon souls. For all of you who like to go on about the sanctity of these and how we should never shatter an enemy... You might turn your attention to the demon that devours them. Not only that- one who does so as an amusement to show to the sick-minded amongst our number who get off to such foulness and then turn up their rumps to be mounted.

He appears as a human, but he will move faster and strike with far more strength than a human should be capable of. He will heal from even grievous wounds almost instantaneously, so you must inflict injuries that cripple or kill before he can recover from them.

I would like to think that people are not so stupid as to be fooled just because he wears a handsome face and is "interesting" or polite, but I have been disappointed many times before.

I will kill him if I can, but if you are not confident that you can do so and you encounter him alone, then resign or flee.

[a_noble_flame]

Matt spoke at length on the shadow problems earlier this month. If you wish to learn more about them I would recommend speaking to him

[That said she adds:]

I haven't experienced them quite as much as you have so far. I did see the face of one of my colleagues that disappeared shortly after I noticed him and that seems to be connected to them as well.

Matt did mention the Church in Heliopolis might have more information that could be helpful in understanding what might have led to these Shadows but would need a high-ranking Meridian to be able to access them.

[hauntedking]

Thank you. I'm sorry to have to make such a list, but...

[ He shakes his head in that fuzzy mental space. ]

Perhaps it was inevitable.

[annmorous]

How about we shine a reeeally big light on the streets while we walk around? At least until we get rid of them for good.

[shes... shes not an ideas person, sorry]

[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.