◊ IN CO-OPERATION LIES OUR HOPE ◊

♦ XXII ♦

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 21:24:56 GMT

Robin, I owe you a great deal of thanks for what you did. A rare moment in which I am relieved I was bested in combat. ~~Quite easily, in fact...~~ The thoughts that ran through my head the other day... I wish I could say that my memory is faulty, but it is all as clear as day.

I never did think words such as those could come out of my mouth, curse or not. I hope it never comes to that again.

...People are speaking of candies... Why do they have words on them? And why are they shaped like hearts?

...Oh. They don't...have the richest flavor.

[ OOC: ALL ABOARD THE FAILBOAT, I totally missed the tldr post ~~for I am awesome~~, but Larsa, Nina, and Anthy do have secrets HERE.

He got Robin's MAD and FAKE, and TRC!Sakura's EMPTY. ]

♦ XXI ♦

Sun, 10 Feb 2008 00:52:37 GMT

Enough is certainly enough. This City has played me for a fool enough times now that I might have trouble keeping count. A man of my stature fell prey to one such yet-to-be-named house cat due to that ridiculous curse that reduced me to naught but a mouse's height. If only Basch had taken it with him upon his departure.

Yet it is in his absence and the redundant tick-tock that runs asunder in my head that my thoughts ring clear. I am an Emperor of a country, and these are no happy times. War has been ended, yes, but what of those not satisfied with such a development? And what of the aftermath left in it's wake? Of the vitreous balance that I must uphold?

My rule is still precocious at best, and I can not risk losing it. For the sake of Archadia and those in our alliance, I will do what I must to stay alive, and to keep them strong. My brother did stray, but he understood the cardinal rule. For the greater good, sacrifices must be made.

You will prepare yourselves.

[ OOC: ...Yeah. He's actually pretty good with his sword, but he's not that awesome with magick. He can last awhile due to his Hi-Potions, but still--any immortal with m4d skills could pwn him by his lonesome. ]

♦ XX ♦

Sat, 26 Jan 2008 02:08:03 GMT

I have witnessed quite a stir, and I not only speak of the Network, but the very streets in which one would walk upon to make their way to Xanadu. I admit to feeling hesitant in returning back outside, as the last time I traversed my way to the market, I nearly lost my head.

I can understand the excitement one must feel when being graced another person's abilities, but I feel too many are abusing them. You really must consider the safety of the citizens... Not to mention the morals of the person you have been switched with.

[ OOC: SO APPARENTLY THERE WAS A MIX UP. HE DIDN'T SWITCH WITH MAI. KITTY IS STILL ALIVE. AND MARY OWES ME HER SOUL AND ALL HER UNBORN CHILDREN. FOREVER. ]

♦ XIX ♦

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 16:25:21 GMT

♪ Forbidden love
Are we supposed to be together
Forbidden love
We seal the destiny forever
Forbidden love

Just one smile on your face
Was all it took to change my fortune
Just one word from your mouth
Was all I needed to be certain

Once upon a time
There was a boy
There was a girl
Hearts that intertwine
They lived in a different kind of world ♪

♪ There's only so much you can learn in one place
The more that I wait, the more time that I waste

I haven't got much time to waste
It's time to make my way
I'm not afraid of what I'll face
But I'm afraid to stay
I'm going down my road and I can make it alone
I'll work and I'll fight 'til I find a place of my own ♪

♦ XVIII ♦

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 00:56:52 GMT

[Private]

I am relieved that Penelo is not angry with me over the kiss, but I did not really think she would be, due to it being out of my control. More than that, I was fearing she would think nothing of it at all. Perhaps her vexation would at least suggest that she thinks of me as a man, and that I overstepped my bounds. Yet she merely smiles and insists it is nothing.

Either she is a very esteemed actress, or I am naught but a child to her. I suspect it to be the latter, though the gap in our age is hardly enough to notice. I lead a country, after all. Given that I am all that remains of House Solidor, I know that they will be pushing me to take a wife soon. My age will have nothing to do with such a decision—only the need of an heir.

Perhaps that is why this is best. Were I to actually succeed in wooing her, I do not imagine that such a union would be received warmly back home. Though I may marry who I wish, I really must consider Archadia's political standing at this point in time...and I must consider her feelings. Would she even want such a responsibility, if all of the other issues were set to rest?

...I will stop pursuing, and stop lingering on such grandiose dreams of freedom. I must take care of what I hold dear—my country and my friends. And I am glad to have her as a friend, nothing more.

[/Private]

My friends, I offer gratitude for the gifts you have bestowed upon me. I do certainly have quite a few books to read now, do I not? I ought to invest in a bookshelf, so that Basch's kitten does not take to scratching them up. ...Basch, have you thought up a name for it yet?

Ah, Robin, shopping for a 'tuxedo' with you was enjoyable, but the outfit was not cheap. How shall I repay you?

♦ XVII ♦ — [ Voice Post ]

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 19:00:42 GMT

There are many who seem deeply troubled on this day~~, Balthier included~~. If I am one of the few spared, perhaps I can offer my assistance on the matter? Of course, I would request to know just what the matter is...

...

Lord Brother! You can't possibly be—

I—!

[ There's some static, and the sound goes dead. ]

♦ XVI ♦

Wed, 19 Dec 2007 02:31:27 GMT

[Private]

She is truly absent from the City. Though I know she is of a free spirit, it seems unlikely that she would run off on some grand adventure without first leaving a note... And if, the Occuria forbid, she had somehow passed on while here, she ought to have been revived long since her disappearance.

Not only must I come to terms with her absence, I must take to heart that it is truly the best outcome for her. Penelo most certainly does not deserve to stay in such a prison. Of course, neither do the others, but we must cherish the small victories. I am sure Vaan will be content to have her back at his side.

Still, after learning about the Christmas holiday, I really had hoped—

No. I cannot dwell on what could have been. My focus ought to stay on what will be, and I know for certain that the rest of us will be free of this place eventually. I must have faith that Archadia will say strong.

[/Private]

I can honestly say I did not enjoy that hot weather. Did we not already experience such a scorching heat recently? ~~It felt much like Dalmasca.~~

Robin, I did in fact receive your gifts, and am most grateful. I have had trouble putting the book down. Still, I am confused as to the holiday you mentioned. It is like the Christmas everyone else speaks of, only...earlier?

Balthier, my welcome is belated, but sincere nonetheless. Though I am pleased to see you, I hope your stay here is short, for this is no utopia. Am I to assume you will be taking up residence in Penelo's old quarters?

♦ XV ♦

Sun, 09 Dec 2007 03:43:21 GMT

The sock puppet play was...surprisingly fun. I have never enjoyed a recreational activity quite like that before. Robin, I hope you enjoyed your birthday. I know that Penelo quite enjoyed herself.

Apparently, I attempted to...conquer the City yesterday. The curses here have taken to turning me into the most unsavory types of characters, have they not? Though I had no control over my actions, I am still ashamed. At least I can take comfort in the notion that it was over before I had a chance to bring harm to anybody. Penelo, Basch, Fran... Forgive me if I acted strangely towards you. ~~My actions were so similar to those of my brothers'--~~

And I do believe there is one Lady Sakura of the Clow Cards that I also owe an apology to. I can only hope that you were cursed as well.

♦ XIV ♦

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 22:56:54 GMT

My apologies for not being readily available as of late. I am still unaccustomed to recording my thoughts in such a public manner. ~~I pay more mind to my private journal, really.~~

This past month has been incredibly mild in comparison to the last, but nothing is ever truly at peace here. To be expected from such a varied population in such a large cage. And a cage it is.

The fires from yesterday have not lessened any...or rather, they have spread. I hear that there have been casualties. Perhaps some Magick would be appropriate. Fran, Penelo, Basch, what say you to offering our assistance to those in need?

~~...Participating in a puppet play with the citizens. I wonder what my brother would say to such a thing. And why am I so often mistaken for a female?~~

♦ XIII ♦

Wed, 07 Nov 2007 05:34:46 GMT

While it is not at all what I expected to wake up to this morning, this experience was not entirely abhorrent. Much warmer than I care for ~~especially in my current garb~~, but it did bring back some nostalgia in regards to the Golmore Jungle.

I know the creatures were dangerous to some, though, and I hope my friends fared well by nightfall? It is a relief to have this City's 'modern' technology back, to be sure.

♦ XII ♦

Tue, 30 Oct 2007 22:38:20 GMT

There are smiles on so many faces, and it is all due to the holiday that Robin informed me about. ...I suppose I am in need of a costume.

I thought to merely observe, but the enthusiasm in the air is rather captivating, and I hear there is to be a celebration in the square. I think that if we are to learn the most we can of other cultures, then we ought to participate to the best of our abilities.

Of course... There is the question of expenses. ~~If only my world's currency was accepted here.~~

♦ XI ♦

Sun, 28 Oct 2007 20:52:36 GMT

Though you thought to compare the last five days to what happened in 'England', Robin, I must say that there really ought not to be any comparison when it comes to such blood shed. Perhaps merely five days does not seem like much to some, but I am sure the people here will never forget them...

Especially those who were cursed in such a manner that they thought to turn on those they hold dear, due to a belief they most likely did not ever hold.

And I, of course, will never forget the feeling this place can instill...of the utter lack of power. But it is not only this place. It is any city or country ruled by a tyrant. I shall remember it well...what it is like to be naught but a citizen in a place overrun by chaos and grief. I only hope this knowledge assists me in helping the people ~~should I ever~~ once I return.

...Ah. Basch, Fran...? I trust you fared well? And Penelo, I know that you did, if you kept your promise.

♦ X ♦

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 06:56:13 GMT

Saya, Robin, it was a pleasure meeting with you both. I hope to do so again at some point

...Oh.

Something appears to be wrong with our plumbing...! My water tastes absolutely foul.

♦ IX ♦

Sat, 29 Sep 2007 22:04:59 GMT

~~Gabranth—~~ Basch, I have been invited to enjoy tea with one Miss Saya. Would you care to accompany me, or shall you be attending to your own matters today?

Fran, she says she knows you. Have you had the pleasure of her company before?

Oh, Robin, I do believe that you have yet to set an exact date for your story telling.

♦ VIII ♦

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 05:49:03 GMT

...It almost seems to be an omen to have the Lady Ashe depart so soon after ~~Judge Gabranth's~~ ~~Basch's~~ ... your arrival. I only hope it is for the best, though...without my presence in Archadia one can only imagine what the people might think with only myself and you missing. At least she will make it to her coronation.

I can only imagine how concerned Balthier must be over Fran's absence as well.

Sir Light, I see the people received the updated City Guide well. I hardly deserve any of the credit, though... You are much more knowledgeable than myself, almost like a scholar.

Two days without any light... It is worrisome, and yet few seem truly agitated. I am curious as to what this festival is all about, though... Is it in recognition of a religious holiday?

Perhaps we ought to attend.

♦ VII ♦

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 05:10:06 GMT

In the Ivalice region around the Galtean Peninsula, there are three major nations: Archadia, Dalmasca, and Rozarria. The former Kingdom of Nabradia and the Republic of Landis were lost in the war brought on by a dispute between the Archadian and Rozarrian Empires. ...An unfortunate consequence of House Solidor, rulers of Imperial Archadia, thirsting for more power and land. Once Nabradia fell, Dalmasca was swiftly assimilated.

I have heard many people describe their lands, and it seems that climates are much more widely spread out geographically in other worlds. In ours, Mist makes it possible so that climates can swiftly differ from snow to grasslands to jungle to desert all in a reasonably minute region. Some lands are so thick with Mist that the winds and soil make it impossible for normal airship travel. We refer to these areas as 'jagd'.

Mist also contributed to the birth of Magicite, which begot our magickal abilities. There are assorted types of Magicite...one of these includes Nethicite, though it might be better declared as an anti-existence. It absorbs Mist, and is a source of prodigious, but deadly power. This place lacks Mist, yet our magicks are somehow made accessible.

Humes copiously dominate Ivalice, though it is customary enough to see Viera, Moogles, Bangaa, and Seeqs populate Hume societies. Other domesticated races include the Garifs, Rebes, Helgas', Baknamy, Nu Mous, Urutan-Yensa, Espers, and even Occuria ~~on a separate plane~~.

Of course it would be prime for all races to harmonize, but some are too set in their acrimonious ways. At the very least, the nations of Dalmasca and Archadia have signed treaties since the...fall of Vayne Solidor, Archadia's former ruler. The role of Emperor fell to all that remained of House Solidor—Larsa Ferrinas Solidor. ...Myself.

Dalmasca has since been revived, with Her Majesty Ashelia B'Nargin Dalmasca's coronation near-at-hand. Politics remain agitated between Rozarria and Archadia, but I will settle for nothing less than peace.

♦ VI ♦

Thu, 13 Sep 2007 21:47:48 GMT

Dear Lovely City,

A Message From One Who Is Wise Beyond His Years, Thank You:

Please teach me the ways of the ADULT WORLD! And how to have FUN APPROPRIATELY! I promise to be the best student there ever was!

I am a good boy!

Signed,

Larsa ♥

~~==KinU~~

[ OOC: Larsa got ~~PUNK'D~~ hacked by Watari. I think he's freaking out more about his real name being revealed than the actual message itself. XD ]

♦ V ♦

Sun, 09 Sep 2007 06:07:08 GMT

Wh-what should I do?! I know that I am not capable of giving birth...and yet here this child is.

I know that she is mine... There simply is no doubt in my mind. But I have not even lived to see the age of fourteen...! I have never b-been with a woman, and yet...?

Bother. Regardless of any confusion this has brought about, I must rise to the occasion and be a proud father.

This does complicate things, though... How am I to provide when the Empire means naught here?

...I... I am in great need of supplies and...assistance.

I do not know how to raise a child, and I am not foolish enough to assume I can take on this task without any prior knowledge. Our kitchen will be the last victim of such ignorance.

♦ IV ♦

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 15:21:51 GMT

...L-Lady Amalia... I believe we have...carried out our duties here to the best of our abilities. ~~Basch would be proud. ...I hope.~~

Unfortunately, at such an hour, sleep is...n-not an option for me. Sir Light offered to bring us a meal, and then I must be off to find myself occupation. Even if they say it is not a child's place to find work, I feel it is my duty to provide. ~~We need new garments... My blouse is pink from that washing machine.~~ Please rest, and do not p-push yourself.

~~Is our kitchen...salvageable?~~ It seems a boy by the name of...Adam wished to invite us over later on for a proper gathering.

[ OOC: So after cleaning the entire building and whatever apartments people let them into for 14 HOURS, and not eating since breakfast yesterday, their pride is the only thing keeping Larsa and Ashe from collapsing in their living room. ]

♦ III ♦

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 01:55:07 GMT

A-ah! I must beg the forgiveness of all tenants in Building 12. We truly did not mean for this to happen.

So embarrassing... The Lady Amalia and I have never cooked anything before, and we should have taken more care. Th-the fire was stopped, but the water had gone off already...!

Even if you will not forgive us, then please allow us to assist you in any way possible. I will try and clean all of the floors even if it means getting no sleep tonight, and I shall help dry the apartments. D-does anyone...have a device in which to do that with? A mop?

How could I have been so foolish? Everyone, please take care not to slip!

♦ II ♦

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 10:22:33 GMT

I must thank all of the kind souls who assisted me upon my arrival here. While I am in a strange land, it is good to know that I am not alone. I have accepted now that this is no dream, nor a nightmare.

It simply is. Perhaps it is a questionable existence, but it is an existence nonetheless, and it would be foolish of me to not try and learn more about this remarkable place. Are there any from Ivalice here? ~~Lady~~ Amalia and myself cannot truly be the only ones, can we? If so, then why us?

Mister Watari, I must say that I am impressed by all you know of this world and beyond. I realize I already owe you so much for showing me around, but may I inquire a little more into these 'experiments' you mentioned before?

And Lady Megumi, I have no intention on canceling our plans... But I would like to beg your pardon and ask if it is permissible for me to bring a friend. I would not yet dare leave Amalia on her own, and she has as much of a right as I to learn the layout of this unnamed city.

♦ I ♦

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 12:48:44 GMT

It has taken me quite a bit of time to master this device found on my person. It is a little different from what I am accustomed to, but I am nothing if not a quick learner with what I am given.

I admit to being troubled right now, as I am some place unfamiliar, and rather alien in quality. There is nobody here that I recognize, and I do not even recognize half of the races.

There are only two logical explanations to this given situation. One would be some sort of kidnapping. But if that were the case, then why am I permitted to walk about freely? The second possibility is that this is a dream, and that seems the far more likely option. I have never experienced one quite like this... But I suppose I am to make the best of it while I am asleep.

To upset my dream would only upset my sleep, and I believe such a thing is precious at the given point in time.