Aion Teleos Network

[Estinien can be felt in the communion space, after having essentially gone missing during the final days of the mission. He's only just now returning to Greentruth in the company of friends. The tone of his psychic transmission is fraught with sorrow and anger in kind.]

Himeka and Abel have been taken by the Kenoma. They... are the Regent's prisoners.

[His presence becomes distant for a few beats after, like he has to steady himself.]

The creature of Innocence we found in Venera... its hold on me is far greater than I ever realized. I was drawn into a battle with the Kenoma, in the defense of other Pleroma, and when I found myself outnumbered and trapped... it came to my aid. Yet, 'twas at a cost I would not have willingly paid.

Angered by their broken "promise", it lashed out at those that bore its mark. 'Twas this moment of weakness that allowed them to be captured. It struck Ryunosuke and Alphinaud as well... Ryunosuke is safe. Alphinaud... has vanished somewhere I cannot reach.

[He's doing his best to give an objective account, something he became skilled in doing as a soldier. It's clear how much this is weighing on him, though.]

The... creature has been attempting to enthrall me. To change my body and steal my memories... it told me that Alphinaud was 'among the light', and that he had no further need for me. That Himeka and Abel had chosen to suffer in this world. I...

[And finally, the anger takes precedent, a fire wrought with misery.]

I will take them back. No matter what it demands of me. I... will bring them home.

Good day, everyone; if we've not yet spoken ere this day, then well met. I am Alphinaud Leveilleur, and we are come to you today—all you, of the Pleroma—with another call into action.

And I’m Hiccup. Maybe we’ve talked before, you might’ve seen me around Greentruth helping around… I was always taught we should take care of our own, which is why this is way past time. We need to get it together, now. Before another Venera happens or any new arrivals.

We discussed it at the campfire a few weeks ago, but starting this week we need to start preparing. Now, someone has already started help on the magical side — but we’re talking everything in between: combat, first aid, navigation, survival, crafting. Anything you might need when you find yourself alone. If you think you’re prepared, come by anyway.

I know from experience there’s always something more someone can learn. Everyone has a skill to teach. Even if it’s something like out-stubborning the enemy, you wouldn’t believe how effective that strategy is.

Indeed. Thus, Hiccup has agreed to hold sessions periodically to assist those who need this help. I implore any and all to take part, for it is imperative we are ready for everything the Kenoma may throw our way.

But we are not all combatants, I realize, and there are other means to help. Supplies of all sorts are in high demand, and are not always so easily accessible in the likes of Greentruth where the heart of the Resistance lies. Therefore, I am asking for those who can assist in this way to come forth, for 'tis my intention to personally oversee that we are all provided with what is necessary for us to rise above our adversaries.

For those willing, pray come forth to inform me what you are willing to contribute. And should you find yourself wanting for aught, you need only say the word, and I shall find a way to make it happen.

As will I. I mean, saying I grew up in a blacksmith’s stall isn’t for all talk. We need to help each other. I mean it when I say everyone has a skill to share, something to contribute. Rather you’re willing to fight or believe in fighting a war, we’ve all got one thing in common: We’re all here, together. We won’t survive if we can’t learn to not take everything on our own and trust each other. That’s what we’re here for today.

[ Alphinaud will let that settle for a moment, then: ]

That is all. My deepest thanks for your time, and may we prosper together.

[Estinien's presence will finally surface in the Pleroma's communion space, a few days after the time of his death. There is a sense of deep sullenness and seething anger in the message he imparts, like a storm on the horizon.]

For those concerned, the reports were true. If our Shards are spared, our bodies can be resurrected... just as mine has been.

[There's still a weariness to his spirit after the fact, but his anger is driving him forward regardless. While he had initially planned to leave it at that, a courtesy to those that may wonder, a disturbing conversation with one of the Kenoma has gifted him with some more forceful words to impart.]

As it stands, I can see little virtue in leaving the bodies of the Kenoma unscathed. If they can be defeated, if their Shards can be claimed... you would do well to take the opportunity while you can. They will not show you the same mercy in return, and the fate you face at their hands is far worse than anything we could offer them.

The time for hesitation has passed.

[Estinien still isn't sure how he feels about this method of communication, but now that it seems like something may be on the horizon, he'll sacrifice his mental well-being to get it done. He pushes inexpertly into the psychic realm, reaching out to all of those touched by the Pleroma.

It comes through roughly like his voice, but with a persistent sense of wary anticipation tinging it.]

Hail. This is Estinien Wyrmblood... with any luck, I have been able to reach you.

My dreams have been plagued by queer echoes of the selfsame vision we all had upon our arrival. It feels as if the shrines are once again stirring, and that more lost souls have fallen within their hold. If so, we can be sure that the Regent and their new thralls will one more move to claim the victims as prisoners.

( cut for length )