View source for Traverse Town: Nexus of Worlds?

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2012/09/24
|Location=Traverse Town
|Synopsis=A handful of people displaced from their home worlds meet in Traverse Town, where they discover the power of a Princess. And some of them have similar goals, too. Or at least, they seem to. Plans for later meetings are made.
|Cast of Characters=Ivo Galvan, Viola, Auron, Aurora
}}
:'''[[Auron]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> It's day two in Traverse Town for Auron. And he's starting to figure things out. He still hasn't found Yuna or any of her other Guardians, but he's been leaving information with people who might be in the know -- bartenders and the like. Never giving any real information, mind. Never anything about the flamey-headed guy who showed up....<br /><br />In fact, Auron is currently exiting from one of those public houses, after not getting any leads on where Yuna might be. The frown on his face is visible, despite the glasses and collar hiding his face. Because, well... he's kinda irritated with all this displacement and world-eating interrupting Yuna's Pilgrimage....

:'''[[Viola]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> Viola, meanwhile, is still a little unsettled by the locale, and moreso by the continual night. <br /><br /> This very moment, the young blonde woman in question is trekking along down the street of the third district, most of her fairly difficult to see given the particular colors: she blends in, favoring purples and blacks and a little blue. Her pointed, wide-rimmed hat would do a great job keeping the sun out of her eyes if there were much concern of that here in Traverse, but at the least, she is not alone; padding along at her side is a very, very large bird: a chocobo, feathered in colors much like those she's wearing, though with a bit more red in there--a 'black chocobo'. <br /><br /> And both of these happen to be very nearly on a collision course with Auron, until the bird stops with a sudden, "Kweeeh!" and Viola looks back up in front of her to see the impressive man before her. She blinks a moment. Then another. "Oh. Oh, sorry."

:'''[[Aurora]] has posed:'''<br><span></span>Princess Aurora has struggled against Malfecient since she was awoken by her husband, Prince Philip. The struggle against the dark faerie and her minions has consumed her entire world and left her in...this place. Her castle is here, somewhere. Her prince is here, somewhere. She knows it, because her heart says it is true - her dreams say it is true. And though such visions are seldom what they seem, she knows it once upon a dream. <br /> <br /> Lifting her skirt lightly, to avoid some of the heavier patches of dirt, she walks along the walkways and walls, examining the colored flags for one that looks familiar. Surely, if her husband had found this place first, he would have placed their flag here, so she would know to come find him. Thinking that this might take forever, or at least a good long while, she begins lightly humming to herself, a pleasant, airy, feminine melody. No words, just 'la la-la la-la' in a musical fashion; her voice less words then an instrument itself.

:'''[[Ivo Galvan]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> Mission accomplished -- more or less.<br /> <br /> Blue cloak still smelling of the sea breeze, Ivo has returned from the Path of Destiny -- growing more comfortable traversing these dark passages with every journey -- and the bustling metropolis of Luca, still a hub of commerce after the fusion of the World of Ruin. Gaze attentive as always, still struck by this town's strange architecture, he strolls with a slight smile of self-satisfaction. He's at least plotted out how he and Lily are going to get to Fluorgis, where they'll meet Reize and his new friends and attempt to found their band, the Shard Seekers, as an official Clan, gaining access to some of the resources they need.<br /> <br /> He's thus on his way to the same inn that Auron's currently exiting, and looking about as pleased as the intimidating Guardian appears displeased, at least as much as anyone can tell. The young knight-errant can't help but pause at the sight of the three interlocutors in front of the door: man, woman, and bird. Striking appearances, the lot of them.<br /> <br /> Such aesthetics these realms have!<br /> <br /> He's grinning silently to himself as he observing -- until his lips falter and his eyes widen slightly at the sound of a lovely if formless melody. Glancing over, he espies a woman of consummate grace navigating the streets despite her finery. That would be notable enough -- yet more even than that, somehow, she reminds him of that young woman who the Heartless so aggressively pursued the other day. He can't put his finger on why. But just looking at them seems to-- put his heart at ease?<br /> <br /> An odd pattern, to be sure.<br /> <br /> "Excuse me, miss," he says as politely as possible to Aurora. "Um, are you lost? I might be able to assist you. ...Though I've only been here a few days myself..." He grins easily again.

:'''[[Auron]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> It's a good thing the bird is keeping watch, because Auron's eyes are not what they were when he was a young man. Plus, he's missing an eye on one side. However, that 'kweeeeh!' catches his attention. He looks between bird and girl a few times, the gaze of that single amber/rust colored eye focusing on her for a moment, as if he's sizing her up. He will eventually get out of the way of the door as well. And out of the way of the woman and her chocobo.<br /><br /> The sound of the song draws his attention up -- his hearing's pretty good, and that's a very beautiful song -- to where it's coming from. He raises the brow of his visible eye. He doesn't know her, but there's something about Aurora that draws the eye to her. But there's someone else who's approaching the woman... and Auron really has no reason to do so himself. However, she's very striking.<br /><br /> He returns his attention to the girl who'd almost bumped into him. "...You should be careful," he states. Though his tone is flat and unremarkable, it's notable that the frown eases from his face as he speaks, and he doesn't appear upset or angry with her for the near-collision.

:'''[[Viola]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> Man in red, and man in blue who at least does seem terribly fancy. But Viola's first attention goes to Auron, as she did very nearly run into him, and she is silent for a moment as he focuses on her. Auron's practiced eye can likely see the signs, even from another world, of a mage; the rod hanging at her belt, the black clothing, and a certain aura about her that says as much. While he's looking, though, she can hear the music, too, and it's the first singing she's heard since she arrived here. <br /><br /> But she's being spoken to and... She can actually see that difference. "...You're right," she says, inclining her head, "I'm lucky Jalli pays more attention than I do. Sorry to bar your way, sir." Something about Auron just reminds her of her teacher, and so of course she'll speak to him like one. But, backing up to get out of the way... <br /><br /> She looks over in turn towards Aurora as well, and does another little nod of greeting, before she can't help but speak up, "Oh, you too? I'm new, myself. ...That's the first song I've heard in a while."

:'''[[Aurora]] has posed:'''<br><span></span>Aurora glances towards Ivo Galvan as he approaches her, a warm, cheerful smile upon her face. Lifting her skirt up and away from her body with either hand, she bends her knees, moving one of the legs backwards while keeping her back straight and very slightly bowing her head - curtsying in the more formal plie-style. "Pardon me, good sir. I am indeed lost, and looking for a particular flag from my realm, or perhaps a sign of milord Husband, or realm. You have not, perchance, seen a stray castle appearing out of nowhere, have you?" She has excellent poise and etiquette; looking Ivo firmly in the eye when speaking to him, and keeping her back erect.

:'''[[Ivo Galvan]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> Always personable in public, Ivo has found the recent collision of the worlds -- for all the obvious problems it's created -- socially rather convenient. With almost everyone equally a newcomer, many strangers are waiting to make a new friend, or at the very least hungry for new information. His relaxed curiosity has allowed the urbane young swordsman to effortlessly engage with people from all manner of different backgrounds. The serious-minded strategizing is best done in private.<br /> <br /> Nevertheless, the knight-errant can't help but turn a clinical eye toward the dispassionate Auron, Ivo's expression momentarily reserved. He's no empath, but any warrior could feel the forbidding aura that the man in red projects. Typically, rather than intimidating him, it just makes Ivo all the more interested. He's kind of reminded of that other girl's bodyguard, with the eyepatch and the gun-sword. ...Well, they /are/ both missing an eye, but no, not just that. He doesn't quite know what to make of the blonde-- except to admire that magnificent bird of hers.<br /> <br /> "Oh, I..." He's torn from his speculations by Aurora's poised reply, Ivo faltering only briefly before remembering his old courtly training and bowing smoothly, albeit in a foreign style, fist to chest. What was he expecting? He chastises himself silently for not anticipating her formality. "Aheh, not recently, I'm afraid," he admits, still maybe a bit too casually, even though he's trying. "Though I wouldn't be surprised if I did, given the state of the worlds these days." He drags out the word 'worlds' a bit, only belatedly remembering to pluralize it.<br /> <br /> "This city, Traverse Town, appears to be rather self-contained," he continues, "and is where all those who have lost their worlds arrive. But it has been connected to many other realms -- perhaps yours as well, miss?" He glances over to the swordsman and the blonde, smiling and nodding. "But I should introduce myself. Ivo Galvan, B-- ah," he corrects himself, "swordsman of the Shard Seekers, who seek the fragments of lost worlds."<br /> <br /> No more will he bandy about old titles.<br /> <br /> "I recently returned from a bustling port city called Luca?" he offers, his inquisite tone testing to see if anyone has heard of it. "Its world has been fused with many others, and now that fused world connects directly to this town via that city. Um, does that sound familiar?" Arching an eyebrow, he reaches into his cloak, searching for something. "I did write down the other cities one may travel to from there via boat..."

:'''[[Auron]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> Whether Auron recognizes Viola as a mage is unknown. He doesn't seem inclined to say too much. But as she apologizes, he shakes his head, indicating it's all right. His warning to her was not in regard to himself, anyway. Who knows what kind of people she might literally bump into if she's not paying attention?<br /><br /> He's not trying to eavesdrop on Aurora and Ivo's conversation. Really. But his hearing is pretty good. And when he hears the mention of a castle appearing out of nowhere, it gets his attention! He looks up, raising the brow of his remaining eye, but besides that, his expression doesn't change.<br /><br /> Also getting his attention is that noting of 'Luca'. That would be the second time he'd heard that -- so Spira /is/ here somewhere. Or, well. Pieces of it, apparently. And as his tone seems inquisitive, Auron sees fit to answer the question. He does, however, give a polite nod to Viola, before stepping forward. "...It's a port city in Spira." Pause. "...Was." Because it looks like it's not in Spira anymore. "...There was a large stadium there. All Spira's Blitzball games were held there."<br /><br /> Yup. He can exposition, too! He'll pause again, looking around at the group -- first Viola, then Aurora, then Ivo -- before asking the group at large, "...I'm looking for a young woman named 'Yuna'." Unspoken, but unnecessary, is the question of whether any of them know her.

:'''[[Viola]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> One thing Viola had certainly /not/ expected today was the sight of for-real nobility, or maybe even royalty. She in fact actually stares (if gently) at Aurora for just a moment, before remembering herself and cutting that right on out. She instead acknowledges the nod on AUron's part, and likewise shifts over, the chocobo following along and generally amusing herself by watching all the people talking. <br /><br /> "Other... realms...?" She 'hmms' a moment in the style of someone puzzling over a matter. "...I'm Viola, a black mage of Troia, and this is Jalli," she gestures to the chocobo. "Ah, sorry, Your Highness. I haven't seen any castles, and I don't recognize any of the flags here." This, of course, to Aurora. <br /><br /> But Luca... And..."Blitzball...?" Well, probably not all that important. "I don't recognize a Yuna, but I could keep an eye out for someone by that name. I--" Wait. "Uh, Mister Galvan, what... other cities were on that list of yours...?"

:'''[[Aurora]] has posed:'''<br><span></span>"A pleasure to know you, Mr. Galvan." Aurora replies, before giving another formal curtsy to the others now entering into the conversation. She doesn't want to be rude, after all. "I am Princess Aurora, daughter of King Stephan, wife to Prince Philip." She bows her head demurely, but only for a moment. She wishes to be polite - but formality has a limit, after all. There is much to be done, and much for her to find out. If what happened to her people have happened to other worlds... to imagine the suffering is unbearable! <br /> <br /> "Perhaps I will find it connected to a part of mine. I am afraid it certainly cannot connect to my world, as I saw it destroyed with my own eyes, as I suspect, did many of you." She glances towards Auron, since he specifically mentioned a disconnected city. She gives him a sad, sympathetic smile, since she has heard nothing of this 'Yuna' of which he seeks. Glancing at last towards Viola, she gives another curtsy. "Thank you so much. A pleasure to meet you both." She smiles at the Chocobo, and sings a few short verses at it. No words - but almost, almost sounding like something a songbird might sing.

:'''[[Ivo Galvan]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> "The pleasure's all mine, Your Highness," the knight assures the princess-- before his visage turns grim. "Destroyed... yes, mine was as well," he admits, tone low. "But some remain, though shadows of their former selves. And... it is said," he adds, tone a little lighter, perhaps to be reassuring, "that those worlds which were obliterated exist somewhere as World Shards, which can be restored to their former glory. Thus, my friends and I seek them." Not that they know /how/ to restore them yet. First things first, yes?<br /> <br /> Spira? Blitzball? Hmm-- oh, right.<br /> <br /> "I do recall there being a large stadium," Ivo says as he withdraws his journal from his cloak and begins flipping pages in search of the relevant information, his easy smile fading to reveal a facet of him hidden thus far: an engineer's intent focus. "Now that I think about it, some of the people I spoke to did mention 'Spira' as its original world, and I did hear the word 'Blitzball' a few times, though only out of context. So it's a sport, is it? Well, that makes sense." Despite his serious expression, deep down, the knight-errant is enjoying this: conversations like these combine his latent curiosity with his love of putting puzzles together.<br /> <br /> Wait, M-Mister--!?<br /> <br /> "Mister Galvan refers to my father," he says affably, glancing sidelong at Viola and grinning. "Please, call me Ivo. Nice to meet you, Viola, Jalli," he nods to the bird politely, looking back at the pages. "I like your outfit-bird coordination. Or is it magic-outfit-bird coordination?" He manages to sound completely serious, even though he's still smiling.<br /> <br /> "Here it is." At last he arrives at the correct page. "Fragments of worlds have been distributed among... four continents and a collection of islands, or so the merchants said." Ivo clears his throat and reads. "Accessible by sea: on the Northern Continent, Carwen. On the Western Continent, Baron. On the Southern Continent, Junon. On the Eastern Continent, Costa Del Sol. And on the other Central Isles, to which Luca now belongs, Palumpolum, Bevelle, and Wutai." He snaps the book shut and glances around. "Any of that sound familiar...?"<br /> <br /> "There are also Sky Ports in some cities, I'm told," he adds helpfully, "from which flying ships may travel, but I've never seen them yet. I don't think I can afford a trip right now in any case." He grins again at that, seemingly unconcerned. "My young friend and I are headed to Costa Del Sol, so we can travel across the desert to a city called Fluorgis. It's said a great crystal imbued with the essence of Fire now rests there, its power accessible to those who forge and craft." He pauses, before glancing away, again thoughtful.<br /> <br /> "...there, I'll create a device to find these Shards, and our worlds."

:'''[[Auron]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> Viola's introduction may have been to Aurora, but it is likewise useful to Auron, for now he knows another one of the people who's talking. Names are good. And Viola's note to keep an eye out draws a nod. "...Thank you," he offers in return. He doesn't offer his name, though. Aurora's introduction is also noted... and the mention of her world being destroyed. That draws a frown. He hopes that's not what happened to Spira -- Sin's been destroying the place enough!<br /><br /> Ivo's mention of Spira and the sport of Blitzball draws a nod. It's a sport, yes. Though Auron's statement may make the need for puzzle-solving moot. "...It's played in a sphere of water. Two teams of five players, each team trying to score points by getting a blitzball into the opposing team's goal." Pause, and he smirks, though the expression is grim. Jecht could have explained it so much better....<br /><br /> But then Ivo's naming off cities that exist in this world -- or worlds, whichever -- and Auron pays attention. One of those does indeed sound familiar. Though he keeps his expression carefully neutral, he speaks up, "...Bevelle. It is also from Spira." He was raised there; he'd probably know that one.<br /><br /> Auron has, actually, been the only one that hasn't offered a name as of yet. It's not out of rudeness. No one has asked, so he hasn't wanted to offer unwanted information. Besides, who he is, isn't important; the important thing is to let Ivo know where these places are from. Especially if he intends to fix the worlds.

:'''[[Viola]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> Jalli is apparently pleased by the few little verses, her eyes closing in something like contentment for a moment as she offers a pleasant, "Kweeh!" in return. ...Well, not too pleasant, but at least not awful. Unfortunately, chocobos are not bred for their singing voices. Viola, for her part, at least commits, "Prince Philip, and King Stephen," to memory, though she is at least sympathetic to a world's destruction, herself. After all, she certainly isn't /home/. Though... "And it's a pleasure to meet you, too." <br /><br /> "World Shards..." More repetition, true, but she is something of an auditory learner at times. Right up to the point at which she gets a grin and laughs a little in return, "Sure, Ivo then. And ah, thanks, but it's just regular mundane clothes. Jalli's feathers are all natural, though she's pretty rare." <br /><br /> Most of the names, meanwhile, trigger a blank look without any recogition--but one, one is different. "Wait--Baron? Yes, I know Baron. I.." Sky Ports. "...Baron is known in my world for its fleet of airships; if you wanted to see them, I'd go there. But Fluorgis... The crystal of Fire was in Damcyean in my..." <br /><br /> "Have you heard of the fate of the crystal of Earth? It's... important, to me. I--wait, a device to find them? Well, I suppose that makes sense, sympathy, especially if you had one of those shards of your own..." <br /><br /> Wait. "Wait, this Blitzball is played in a sphere of water? How fascinating. I--wait, I guess this isn't the time for that, is it?" A sigh, and a shake of her head, as she idly ruffles her chocobo's feathers. "Can I ask who you are, too? So, if I find this Yuna, I can tell her who's looking for her."

:'''[[Aurora]] has posed:'''<br><span></span>There is a lot of talking going on right now, and Aurora is reluctant to interrupt. She has said her part, so she practices a skill she feels is very important in any person who wants to develop their character, let alone a ruler - she listens. She nods at the various comments, and pays attention. She clasps her hands together and rests them demurely upon the top of her slightly-poofy skirt, nodding at the appropriate times. There is quite a bit of information to consider here, and she wouldn't want to miss something important by speaking, when she should be listening. She gives everyone smiles in turn, when they speak - even the Chocobo. <br /> <br /> At last, when everyone has had their turn, and things have settled down somewhat, she gazes thoughtfully at Ivo. "A worthy quest." she says simply, letting the words and the tone speak for themselves. "Please, tell us more of what you have learned and your goals. Clearly, we are all seeking, here."

:'''[[Ivo Galvan]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> It's Ivo's time to listen, too. He's spoken enough as it is. Crossing his arms before him, the slender swordsman nods slowly, blue eyes contemplative. He's curious about Blitzball too, but as Auron expects, it's the information about the worlds that he finds most pertinent right now. Taking up a rather elegant little pen of some sort, he jots this down briefly in his journal. "Then some worlds have left more than one location behind," he murmurs. "I wonder if there's any meaning amidst this madness...?" It's nothing he can discern at the moment, but if there's any significance to the locations left behind, it might offer some clue to putting the worlds back the way they were. Who knows?<br /> <br /> Privately, he's less interested in restoring the worlds in and of itself, and more intrigued by the prospect of figuring out this mystery. But perhaps he should keep that to himself.<br /> <br /> "Are your clothes mundane?" he then replies to Viola, raising his eyebrows in feigned surprise. "It must be you that made them seem striking." Ivo, don't tease girls in front of the Princess. You'll ruin your good impression. "Hmm... I heard that about Baron." And now he's all business again, hand clasping his chin, thoughtful. "Yet it's not accessible as a Sky Port, apparently. Rumor had it they've closed off their airspace for military reasons. I suppose I can't blame them, given the situation, but it's a bit unfortunate."<br /> <br /> Crystal of Earth?<br /> <br /> "Ah..." Curses, what an oversight. "No, I'm sorry, I... didn't think to ask after the other crystals." Think, Ivo, think. "Someone said something about Baron possessing that of Water... er... was the Crystal of Earth on a mountain, somewhere? I didn't get a name, but I don't think it was a city. Sounded like a temple of some kind." He looks genuinely frustrated. "I'm sorry I can't be of more help, Viola. But... if you can't find your city, why don't you come find me in Fluorgis?" Then he smiles. "I'll need to run some experiments, but I'm confident sympathetic magic should work here, as you discerned."<br /> <br /> Of course, he needs to find a fragment of a shard, before that. It'll work out!<br /> <br /> "I wish I had more to offer, Your Highness," the knight says quietly, looking a little troubled again. "I expect it will be a long and difficult journey. To acquire the resources needed to develop the Shard Seeker device, to then discover World Shards, and find how to unseal them..." Uh, yeah, tough list there, pal. "But, after all," he then says, placing a gloved hand on his hip and smiling calmly again, "what better endeavors have I to pursue? I have to look after those kids. Um, Reize and Lily," he appends. "Two teenagers whose world has been destroyed. They've got spirit, but-- that's about it."<br /> <br /> Charitable as always.

:'''[[Auron]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> the pleased reaction from the chocobo actually draws a near-smile from Auron, the hard lines of his expression softening ever-so-slightly. The collar and sunglasses hide this well, and his expression goes back to normal after a moment. This talk of crystals is interesting, since as far as he knows, his world has no crystals. And then Viola's question of Blitzball, and her seeming disbelief over the fact that the sport is played underwater draws an amused 'hnf'. But she's right. Now's not the time.<br /><br /> He will, however, offer his name when asked. "...Auron." No last name. No titles. No noting of rank. No salute or bow. When Ivo mentions possible meanings of the worlds leaving more than one piece, he ventures, "...Like they've been shattered."<br /><br /> Oh, more names have been offered! Those too will be committed to memory, and Auron will listen to all the discussion involving world shards, crystals, shard seekers, and all the other confusing stuff. Right now it doesn't make much sense. But if he gains more information, perhaps it will start falling into place....

:'''[[Viola]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> Viola, for her part, is endeavoring to be on her best behavior about twice over, given Mister Teacher over there and now a princess, as well. She could do perhaps to take a note from the chocobo and relax, but sadly, she does not. ...She also doesn't catch that near-smile out of Auron, so his secret is safe for now. <br /><br /> She can continue all her questions later; for now, just 'Auron' is sufficient, as Ivo continues to share more information that Viola hadn't even had a context for before it all began right here. "Shattered... Well, if they're called Shards, I guess that would follow, wouldn't it? I was away from home when everything happened, so maybe Troia is still out there, too." <br /><br /> The compliment out of Izo gets a faint blush out of Viola, who herself is at best around twenty. "O-oh, I'm sure it's just the coloring, there's very good dyes in Troia." But--aah, "Closed off their airspace for military reasons... No, it doesn't surprise me. They.." She stops, for then, to listen, but back at the talk of the crystals, "Yes, Baron would have the Crystal of Water. Their air force stole it from its rightful home through military might. But on a mountain...?" Hm. "Well, it should be in a temple; it was tended by priestesses back home, who ruled our nation..." <br /><br /> "It's fine, it's one thing out of many. But... Ah, sure. I guess a black mage might be useful in that kind of experiment anyway. The worlds, elemental magic... I'm sure there could be something there." <br /><br /> That... /is/ quite the list, though. "Oh, you're looking after someone? Then, definitely good luck."

:'''[[Aurora]] has posed:'''<br><span></span>"Even the most ordinary talent, applied in the most humble of ways, can change the world, with preserverence." Aurora says, her voice sounding firm for the first time. "The task may be great, for each of us, but if we have faith, and endure, or if we do not have faith, but preservere out of duty, acting as if we do, then we will find even our smallests strengths overcoming the greatests and most firm of obstacles in time, like water wearing down the mountains. It sounds as if we are all in the same boat. That means we are not alone. We have all seen and felt darkness; but where one of us finds hope, manages to reuinite with a loved one, manages to accomplish our goals by doing the right thing - we all benefit. Alone or together and apart, we are all suffering in the same way. Our victories, likewise, will be the same, even apart." Obligatory Princess Speech!

:'''[[Ivo Galvan]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> Ivo nods at Auron's impassive response, the young man's expression briefly inscrutible, oddly ambivalent for a moment. Let's peek inside his head and see what our world-hopping gallant is thinking:<br /> <br /> ~ Man, what's with all these guys who are cooler than me? ~<br /> <br /> Well, that's enough for now.<br /> <br /> Yet the knight-errant is not so transfixed as to miss Viola's brief blush and charmingly self-effacing demurral, which elicits from him an ever-so-slightly raised eyebrow and an ever-so-slight smile, much too self-possessed to reveal his delight. "Yes," he replies, "I see much that is lovely comes from Troia."<br /> <br /> Oh, Ivo.<br /> <br /> Still, teasing her isn't as high priority as hearing what she has to tell him. He files away that tidbit about Baron, and reminds himself to get clear on the status of these Crystals. Even if the Crystal of Fire is all that interests him for now, he only vaguely grasps the depth of its power, or its significance for this new fused world. He smiles and nods gratefully at Viola's support, but is silent, turning instead to listen to the Princess speak.<br /> <br /> Now that's royal charisma!<br /> <br /> "Stirring words, Your Highness," the knight says, breaking into a grin. "I shall take them to heart. Please consider me your ally. Even when separated, my victories will be yours."<br /> <br /> He is genuinely inspired, but even as he makes this promise, privately, he feels a certain trepidation. He is drawn to her light, yet as he accepts it, he finds he fears it somehow, for reasons he does not fully understand. As though, were it to fully banish the darkness, there would no longer be shadows in which he might find comfort. Let his duties and titles be forgotten. Let the past be the past.<br /> <br /> The only visible sign of his realization is a little twinge of his eye, the barest hint of a troubled mien, a silent swallow soon suppressed by a smile.<br /> <br /> ...Does he really /want/ to resurrect his world?

:'''[[Auron]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> Auron merely nods when Viola comments about 'shards' generally meaning 'shattered'. It's a single, slow nod that indicates he knows what she's talking about here. And perhaps surprisingly, when Viola expresses her hope that Troia may be out there? Encouragement! "...If it is, you'll find it."<br /><br /> The rest of this stuff is stuff Auron needs to know too. Never know what information might come in handy in a situation like this! Oh, then comes that inspiring speech from the Princess! And Auron just... has to laugh. It's a quiet, mirthless chuckle under his breath. Just briefly. And he shakes his head slowly. One gets the feeling it's a wry gesture. But he doesn't correct or discount any of it.<br /><br /> And there goes Ivo, near-flirting with Viola! Though Auron notes the ever-so-slight twinge of Ivo's eye, and narrows that remaining eye of his, seeking more in the other man's expression. What might he be hiding, that makes him all but flinch away from encouraging words....?

:'''[[Viola]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> Encouragement, really? Actually that's pretty heartening--Auron's words bring a grateful look from Viola for a moment, that turns into a firm nod. "Right. I've barely even started looking so far, and there's nowhere I can't go with Jalli here." <br /><br /> And... And that is quite a princess speech. She doesn't laugh, but she does smile. "Not alone, huh? ...Right. We're in this together, even if we don't know each other yet." <br /><br /> But--this particular farm girl black mage is not used to well-dressed charming men actually paying attention to her, and so at his next comment her face remains a brighter shade of red and she busies herself checking her chocobo's saddle all of a sudden, while she recovers her dignity a bit. <br /><br /> "I..." She turns back to look at the others, "Well, I'm glad I met all of you. I was getting a little worried, just wandering around here, but I guess I have a destination. I... If I find the people you're looking for, I'll post a notice here in this town. I figure we can all use it as a sort of a central point, right? Everybody ends up here, if Ivo's right."

:'''[[Aurora]] has posed:'''<br><span></span>Well, Aurora has said her peace, and now she has work to do - a husband to find, mostly. You'd think keeping track of them would be easier. She gives everyone another curtsy. "Excuse me, I did not intend to ramble. I'm sure you all feel the same way. I should be departing now. Thank you for your assistance. If you should, in any of your travels, come across the Enchanted Dominion, King Stefan, or Prince Philip, please, let them know that I will be coming home." She curtsies again, and turns to leave, before stopping. "Oh dear. I should say though, and if you should encounter a faerie by the name of Malfecient, please do be careful. She's quite powerful, and very evil, and you all seem such pleasant dears."

:'''[[Ivo Galvan]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> Guhh-- that old man is glaring at him.<br /> <br /> Don't make eye contact, Ivo!<br /> <br /> At least he can take solace in Viola's, as it were, receptivity. The young knight doesn't bother to suppress his mirthful grin once she turns around and can't see him doing so, an expression that would probably be insufferable if it weren't so dashing. ...Or so he likely tells himself.<br /> <br /> Still, he doesn't push his luck, and has reduced to an affable smile once she looks bad, nodding at her words. "Likewise, Viola. I too will post notice here if I meet this Yuna, or any of your loved ones, Princess." Seeing that Aurora is departing, he nods, still smiling, and bows again-- though he blinks at her word of warning. "Ah... yes, of course. I surely shall. Farewell, Your Highness."<br /> <br /> Was a specific person responsible for the downfall of the Princess Aurora's world? This thought unsettles him almost as much as the fact that this possibility hadn't occurred to him. Could all this be by some sinister design? Who is out there destroying worlds, and why? Did someone destroy /his/?<br /> <br /> For a moment, bizarrely, he has the irrational fear that it was him.<br /> <br /> Quickly, he shakes that odd feeling off. Whatever his sentiments toward his home world, he didn't go out of his way to obliterate it, and there's no way he has that kind of power. Thus reassuring himself, he smiles again, relaxed as usual, placing a hand upon his hip as he looks toward Viola. "Will you be heading to Baron, then, in search of Troia? If only you were accompanying me. I hear the beaches of Costa Del Sol are balmy all year around." He's at it again.<br /> <br /> Subsequently, he risks a glance at Auron out of the corner of his eye, just in case that guy is still giving him That Look. "And you, Sir Auron? To the cities of Spira, perhaps?" Why, Ivo, it's almost as though you're less interested in the prospect of Auron joining you on the beach.

:'''[[Auron]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> Good, Viola seems more confident. Auron himself seems a little more relaxed. A little -- the line of his shoulders is just slightly less tense than it had been a few moments ago. It doesn't really matter if Troia isn't here or not. But if she's going to go look for it, she has to be confident about it. If she falters, she'll fall. And if she falls? Well, probably bad things will happen.<br /><br /> "...This city does seem to attract the displaced," Auron observes. There's a wry tone in his voice as he notes this. And if any can see over his collar, the ghost of a similarly wry smirk can be discerned. Regardless, it's clear he seems to agree with that.<br /><br /> Aurora speaks up, and Auron nods once more, to her. This time it is a respectful incline of the head, as befitting her rank. He supposes, anyway -- there aren't 'princesses' in Spira. He can assume she's a Maester, or something like it. Her warning of 'Maleficent' draws a quirk of his brow. But he understands. More names, more information to remember. "...Take care," he offers to the departing Princess. Good advice for anyone in their situation!<br /><br /> Well, if Ivo's looking to fix the worlds... his own world is shattered too, so it seems like they have similar interests. Sort of. And so he will also note to Ivo, "...Thank you." As Ivo's mentioned posting a notice if he meets Yuna, as well. "...I'll help you restore the worlds, if I can. But I need to locate Yuna first. This place seems to be where those displaced from their worlds end up. So I will search here first."<br /><br /> So there you go. Don't worry, Ivo. Auron won't be joining you on the beach, at least not for a while. Besides, he probably doesn't look as good in a bathing suit as Viola would, anyway.

:'''[[Viola]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> Dashing can work for the moment--after all, Viola can't see any insufferable expressions for the moment. Quite instead, all seems normal enough, and she nods, as the plan is made, and then, the warning... "Take care, your Highness. And thanks for the warning." <br /><br /> "That's right. Baron is my first step, though I'll be being careful about it, especially if they're on alert, as you say. I..." She just sort of stops speaking for a moment, rescued instead by the focus on Auron, then. <br /><br /> At least in one matter, she is more confident--meeting AUron has been good for her, in that way, as she certainly is one of those displaced. "Ah, um, I'll help out, too, but first... Well, I need to head to Baron. Ah, b-besides, I'm really more of a forest type anyway." A nervous laugh, "I hope I run into all of you again!"

:'''[[Ivo Galvan]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> "I understand," the young knight replies to the elder Guardian. Even if he has the unsettling sense that Auron can see through him, that's not so important that he wouldn't rely on the man's sword. After all, that itself is likely a sign of the silent sentinel's prowess. "Once you find Yuna, my friends and I would be glad to help you seek what fragments of Spira have vanished, and unravel the mystery that is this fusion of the worlds." Ivo might have his secrets, but he doesn't value them more than the safety of Reize and Lily, and Auron earned his respect just from his very presence. He'll be fortunate if they end up working together.<br /> <br /> Ivo's blue eyes are smiling again at Viola's flustered recovery, but at last he is merciful, nodding once even as his grin broadens. "I've yet to see the forests of this new world. Well, we can both broaden our horizons at a later date." Okay, he couldn't resist one last innuendo. "The sentiment is mutual, Viola. I'm sure we'll meet again." He raises his hand in a casual salute. "Don't forget: if you seek the Shards, come to Fluorgis. With luck, we'll be setting up our headquarters there."<br /> <br /> Every group needs more charming young women, right?<br /> <br /> "I'd better check up on Lily, myself," he says then, brushing aside his gold-fringed cloak. "I've kept her waiting, I expect. Well, this has been a fruitful encounter. Nice to meet the both of you." His smile softens briefly, now unmistakably sincere. "...and best of luck."<br /> <br /> No more people should be lost to the darkness.<br /> <br /> Especially not ones as interesting as these!

:'''[[Auron]] has posed:'''<br><span></span> At Viola's mention of 'running into' them again? Auron exhales a breath through his nose, almost a chuckle. Almost. But not quite. "...Hopefully not literally." Meaning how they met here, with Viola and her bird almost running into him. However, he's serious again in the next instant. "...You take care as well."<br /><br /> He nods to Ivo's words, his eye closing briefly, until his head tilts back up. "...Thank you. Fluoris, you said?" Once he did locate Yuna -- and the rest of her Guardians -- he'd be heading that way. Or if he didn't find her after a while, he'd be going there anyway. Perhaps fixing Spira will return things to normal, and he could find her then.