#Liya al-Amundi

[shardssystem]

Fic authors self rec! When you get this, reply with your favorite five fics that you've written, then pass on to at least five other writers. Let's spread the self-love 💞

Luckily, I have written at least five things! <sigh of relief>

In no particular order:

Once Was Lost - The start of it all. I still “enjoy” the feeling that the inevitable approach to the gallows gives.

To Tame A Tiger - We are all miss Blaseball, RIV, and all that. I wasn’t as active as I would’ve liked, but I’m still proud of this piece, and how it gives a bit of character to an underrepresented player.

Future Past - While Once Was Lost is the start of things, this is where a little of the meat of the story starts coming into play.

Pulling Loose The Threads - Escalation is the name of the game here, and shows a solid link to the established canon, which I’m always wary about doing.

Holiday In Eorzea - Not just a Dead Kennedys reference! This is easily the most ambitious thing I’ve written to date, and it’s far from over. The sad thing in my mind is that it comes after a lot of other parts that are yet to be written. But sometimes, stories have their time and demand it.

Thanks for the ask, @brasideios! I’ll leave the floor open for anyone else who would like, but I’d like to hear from @kosmosxipo , @mossy-kit, and @cyndakip - Talk some Spit!

[holiday-in-eorzea]

Blade Of Night

Upon entering the Quicksand, the source of trouble was hard to miss. Another of the Lominsan marauders, though this one wore a covering on his head, and appeared to be more solidly built than his comrades. I assumed they signified him to be the leader of the troupe. Typical; leave the subordinates to do what they will outside in the heat, all while relaxing and drinking in shade and comfort. Although, it seemed something had riled him up, as he towered over the Lalafell waitress, shards of glass and remains of ale staining one of the nearby walls.

"Me poxy arse this is yer best brew! I’d sooner drink a pint o' me own piss than this swill!” the charming individual bellowed at the girl.

“I- I’m sorry! Just l-let me...”

The marauder raised his hand, as if to strike her. I called out. “Hey! What are you doing?!”

He paused, and turned to face me. “Just who the 'ells do ye think yer speakin' to, maggot!? I'm Pfarmurl the Driven, an' me an' me Bloody Marauders've been reavin' so long, mothers scare their children with tales about us!”

“It doesn’t matter who you are! I won’t allow harm to an innocent person, especially not over something so idiotic!”

The marauder scoffed, and stretched in an attempt to intimidate me. “Don't believe me words? Then I'll let me axe do the talkin'!” Sure enough, he began to reach for the wicked axe strapped to his back. In response, I moved towards my blade’s scabbard and prepared to draw.

Suddenly, a voice called out from a table behind us. “Oho, this is lively, even for the Quicksand. You two going to put on a show for us?” Both the marauder and I turned to see a rough looking man finishing a drink, dressed in a billowing red shirt, and loose pants; a long blade strapped to his hip.

“What's this? Another godsdamned fool? Show some respect when ye talk to...” the marauder started to say before the man in red cut him off.

“Pfarmurl the Driven, leader of a troupe of bloody mummers or some such. Aye, I heard you the first time - your voice carries quite well.” The man waved away his own interruption with a relaxed, casual air.

Pfarmurl, the marauder, took clear umbrage to the attitude. “Then unless ye want me to split yer skull with me axe, ye better-” He paused mid-sentence, taking a more measured look at the man’s sword. It was certainly imposing; wicked black spikes were worked into the shaping of the false edge, with runic lettering down the flat. My knowledge of languages failed to provide a translation.

“Th-That sword!” Pfarmurl stammered. “It couldn't be... Frenzy!? But only the Sword of Nald would - Bloody hells, it's you!”

The man in red smiled, but it was a predator’s grin; there was no joy in those eyes. “You know, I've never been one to stand back and watch. Mind if I join the fun?”

Pfarmurl held his hands out in defense, scared stiff. “B-B-Beggin' yer pardon, sir!” was as much as he got out before turning tail and running as fast as he could muster.

The man in red just sighed, and scratched at the back of his head. “Why do they always do that...? Looks like it's just you and me.” I once again reached for my sword, as he laughed, face softening. “No no, I didn’t mean to suggest we fight. I merely wanted to compliment you. Standing up to that Lominsan was quite brave of you—and quite foolish.”

“I was simply doing my duty; one that I would hope anyone would do likewise, but I know many don’t.” I replied, relaxing my posture; noticing how much I had been tensing only as the muscles released.

“I think I like you, gladiator. Name's Aldis, and I'd buy you a drink, but I'm afraid I just spent the last of my coin.” The man gestured to his now empty mug.

“That’s alright. I’m not much of one for drink, but thank you for the offer regardless. I’m Liya.”

“Liya, huh? I used to be a young gladiator like you. Back then, I...” Aldis trailed off, as if lost in a memory, but quickly returned to the present. “Ah, but that hardly concerns you. These days I'm just an explorer of the unexplored, a seeker of as-yet-unknown experiences...” Aldis sighed wistfully and looked towards the ceiling. “...Like that beautiful stranger keeping my bed warm right now. Gods, I've missed this city; this wonderful desert jewel of debauchery and sin. Now, if you'll excuse me.” Thankfully, he either didn’t notice, or at least didn’t call attention to the reddening of my cheeks as he made his way towards the interior stairs.

I took a brief moment to compose myself, and made my way over to Mistress Momodi, the proprietor. “Is everything alright now, M- Momodi?” I had to catch myself of speaking out of habit before inadvertently insulting her again. Using one’s title was customary at home, but she had already indicated her preference.

“It’s fine now that seadog’s been run off. I swear, if I hadn't seen Aldis with my own eyes, I wouldn't have believed it was him. Everyone here thought he died years ago.” She let out a dejected breath. “Listen, Liya. Do me a favor and don't tell Mylla about meetin' Aldis, alright? She doesn't need this sort of drama.”

“Why? Is there something I should know about? He’s not a threat, is he?”

Momodi shook her head. “Well...let's just say some folk ain't good for one another. If you catch my meanin’”

“Ah, like that. Well, in that case, I don’t think I need to include that detail when I return to Mylla about the job.”

“My thanks about that. I suspected the guild would be quick to dispatch someone, and I had even money on it bein’ you. Those mercenaries occasionally keep the peace in these parts, but their patrols seem to come round as they feel. I’ve sent a runner ahead to Mylla about your performance here and from what I could gather from outside. It’s good to have someone that cares handy.” She smiled and gave a cheeky wink. “Now, you must be thirsty, havin’ to lug that armor around in this heat; how about a drink?”

I was instantly reminded of the cracking of my lips, and the rasp of my throat. It had been far too long since I wore my own skin, and I considered myself lucky to be relieved of the need of arms and armour in my life. Even if it meant needing to become acquainted with them after the fact. “A cup of water would certainly be appreciated, I admit.”

“No freebies this time!” Momodi called over her shoulder, already pouring the cool, clear liquid from a jug. She said it with the tone of a teasing joke, so I chose to take it as such. She passed the cup across the counter, and I returned the favour with a small pinch of coins from my pouch, still unsure about the currency and its value. Momodi took one and pushed the others back. On inspection, I noted she had effectively charged 3 of their “gil” for the water, though I wasn’t sure if that was a reduced price, inflated, or simply the standard rate. As I had no reason to argue, I accepted the fare and returned the remaining coins to their place.

Though the respite from the heat was welcome, I still had my duty to accomplish, so begrudgingly I exited the cool interior of the Quicksand, to traverse the streets of Ul’dah back to the Gladiator’s Guild. I passed the returning messenger on the way, exchanging a brief look of acknowledgment as they went on their way.

Mylla was in her customary position, overseeing the guild members training with their wooden blades. I gave a salute, but she was quicker than I in starting the conversation.

“I've already heard of your exploits at the Quicksand, Liya. You did well to send those marauders packing. I wish I could say we've heard the last of them. Alas, we've received reports of axe-wielding raiders assaulting merchants traveling through Scorpion Crossing.” She shook her head lightly in disgust.

“They move quickly then. Did they already have this planned as a distraction?”

A frown crossed the guildmaster’s face. “It seems words will not suffice. after all. I want you to finish what you've begun, Liya. Head to westem Thanalan and see that Pfarmurl fellow and all those who have shared in his crimes never trouble the people of Ul'dah again.”

“To what end, guildmaster?”

“I trust your judgment, and your ability. Should it come to it, I have arranged for your prior allowances with the Brass Blades to extend further, under my authority. No crime would be decreed if it were a necessary step.” Our eyes met, as if the full meaning of her statement was conveyed through vision alone.

“I will do my best, and hopefully it does not come to that.”

Mylla nodded, a grim demeanour colouring the expression. “Good. Then, be off. The trade outpost of Scorpion Crossing is the nearest settlement in the area. I advise asking there for more precise information.”

I gave a crisp salute, the habit still forcing itself from my training, and exited the guildhall. The western gate, identified as the Gate of the Sultana was not far from the guild, as I passed through the streets into the afternoon sun. The weather was cooling, but still warmer than I would typically prefer. The more temperate climate of Ravnica had caused more of an adjustment than I thought. I exhaled as of to chase the heat away, and set off.

Everywhere I looked as I walked reminded me of home, of Melenas. Though the climate here was harsher, the wildlife and greenery had adapted well. Farming had always been somewhat of a struggle; trying to find suitable groundwater sources to feed our crops and what livestock could manage. I could imagine the soil here would handle thoumfruit and jazar in greater abundance. I shook my head; Kolya was insistent on my learning the proper names of things, least of all for his understanding; garlic and carrot. The words still felt foreign in my mind, but to his credit, the names he used seemed to be more common across a number of planes compared to my own. Of course, getting the seeds here was an entirely separate issue; while inorganic materials traveled the Blind Eternities without issue, the same could not be said of more natural things. I had tried to retrieve some herbs for baking, only to find handfuls of dust on my arrival.

By the time I had made it to the outpost, the sun was all but swallowed by the horizon, as dusk swiftly approached. Asking around, it seemed that accommodations could be found, as it was a popular trade route, and merchants were often passing through. It was dangerous to continue in the darkness of the open road, with unknown terrain, strange wildlife, and even knowing that my quarry was out there somewhere, so I opted to ask about a bed for the night. Much easier to seek people by light of day, and if they wanted easy prey of merchant caravans, they’d be unlikely to move on. Though, that would also solve the issue. The beds were rough cots, clearly sourced from military surplus despite the wealth of the city and surrounds. Not much in terms of comfort, but there was a lot to be said for the relative safety and security offered by the fortifications made to the outpost, and by the Brass Blades stationed by the gates on regular rotation. Memories of having to do much the same in prior lives came to mind, as I felt a touch of guilt of not envying their position. 

The night was still early, so folks had gathered near the center of the outpost to share tales of the road, both tall and mundane, and to come together to share meals, showing more of a community than I had gotten from just a general impression of the city proper’s populace. On one side, there was a merchant complaining about misplaced packages from his shipment, asking his compatriots to assist in locating them overnight and subsequently being laughed off, with assurances that there was plenty of time in the morning for that. On the other, one of the established traders of the outpost told tales of living plants, whose blood had such apparent power as to keep a person from appearing to age. I nearly scoffed myself, before remembering that I knew practically nothing about this plane, so for all I knew, it could very well be true. I’d certainly experienced enough things I had thought mere stories if I thought about them at all prior to my execution. Soon though, the merriment wound down, as caravan leaders took to rest for the day ahead, and others made themselves weary; from the day’s labour or drink, I do not know which. I found my way to my allotted cot, removed the heavy chain coat and highboots, and allowed what I had come to appreciate in the gentle ache of a healthy exertion take my mind in slumber.

Another morning, and another push against my spark. And unfortunately, another nullified response. Not that I would necessarily abandon people in need, but it was always useful to know whether you had a backup plan if required. I sourced a light morning meal from one of the departing caravans, and had managed to eat most of it before a yell could be heard from the gates leading away from the city.

[niuttuc]

“Tell Me About Your Characters” post:

Liya al-Amundi

Human/Spirit — White > Colourless > Variable — Born -2840 AR (2669 ZC), Died -2813 AR (2696 ZC), aged 27.

Plane Of Origin: Melenas

First Planeswalk: Jund

Currently residing on Ravnica

Main Abilities: Possession of potential, unsparked individuals; access to host’s abilities.

Oooh, quite an old soul. Do they typically spend their time possessing another or do they spend more time outside of any host? Is it generally long-term possession or something that only last a short while to resolve a matter?

[shardssystem]

So I saw a post about this concept and thought it would make for a interesting ask. Magical damage, like a necromancers fingers slowly turning black and losing sensation or a wizard with lighting bolt scares across their arms. What dose it look like when your oc's push their magic beyond what their bodies can handle?

Sorry for the delay!

So for Liya, like most cases of magic, it mostly depends on her host. Outside of a host, she becomes anchored to the ironwood tree that makes her grave on Melenas, or to the former heart of the Selesnya conclave in the 10th District on Ravnica, where the leylines meet. The more she fights against it, the more transparent she gets, and the foggier her mind becomes. It’s like a slower acting anaesthesia.

Though Yri’s magic is small to match its user, she can still push herself too far. Her hair starts losing its fight against gravity, and it becomes harder for her to fly. Less obviously, food (especially sweets) loses its flavour.

Vasil’s magic is basically what’s keeping him alive, so using too much means he starts drying out, as it were, and his bones start weakening their connections. Like Liya, he starts getting fuzzy around the edges before becoming a temporarily inanimate pile of bones.

Caidi’s magic powers her telepathy and projection, along with their shapeshifting. They remain sentient, but become unable to communicate effectively.

Kolya unfortunately finds himself in this position too often. Utilising precognition puts stress on the brain, so he develops nosebleeds and sharp headaches as a warning sign to avoid damage from continuing. He’s pushed himself into a coma before, and could risk death.

Conversely, The Coterie rarely push too hard, being able to channel power through all three of them. Unless in a literal life or death scenario, they don’t tend to fight together, meaning there’s at least one of them in reserve. If it comes to it, they collectively start weakening and aging, their shared mind generating screams internally. This heals over time with rest, but leaves the triplets vulnerable in the interim.

Thanks for the ask, @little-red-rabbit!

[shardssystem]

This was inflicted upon us by @kosmosxipo, so now I get to inflict it on you all! Yay! It’s the WIP post!

RULES: make a new post with the names of all the files in your WIP folder, regardless of how non-descriptive or ridiculous. Let people send you an ask with the title that most intrigues them, and then post a little snippet or tell them something about it! and then tag as many people as you have WIPs.

A Tale Of Two In The City

Downtime

Learning To Forgive

Going The Distance

Countdown

Into Dust

Perchance To Dream

The Spirit Of Man

Dearly Beloved

The Ties That Bind

Spoonful Of Sugar

Of Sand And Ruin

Deus Ex Arcanum

Silver Tongues

The Coming Storm

Heart Of Darkness

Dead Man's Hand

Within The System

The Long Walk

Something Borrowed

Lock Ourselves In

As for tagging, I never have a good idea about who would like to do these, so I’ll leave it off for now, but consider this an open tag and/or invitation!

[shardssystem]

🍲🍥

🍲When did you start writing and why?

In general, it would’ve been maybe 1990 and because of a school assignment. Shameless ripoff of pop-culture elements at the time, but enough that teachers were minorly impressed.

A more relevant answer would have been 2015, when a random inspiration from a question of “Can MTG Planeswalkers become planeswalkers from positive experiences, or is it only trauma?”. This was the inception of Liya as a character, and I basically started writing and designing from that day on. (Also, I cheekily suspect it may have also inspired the creation of The Wanderer, so I fully accept credit for that 😅)

The post in question, from @dougbeyermtg’s blog:

🍥What's your favorite fic you've written?

So while To Tame A Tiger is far and away the most popular work I’ve written, I consider Future Past my strongest writing to date. It’s really helped set up a number of plot elements, but beyond that, I don’t think it’s all that bad either.

Thanks for the ask, @yrael!

[shardssystem]

Doing the WIP thing that @cryinginblaseball, @polkadotpatterson, @luckyowl21, and other friends have done, and hoping this also kickstarts a couple of them. 😅

RULES: Reveal the titles of the documents in your WIP folder and tag as many people as there are documents. Let others ask questions about the ones that interest them and post snippets or explain the contents as you see fit!

A lot of these are not final titles:

A Tale Of Two In The City

The End Of Things

Learning To Forgive

Countdown

Going The Distance

Into Dust

Perchance To Dream

The Spirit Of Man

Dearly Beloved

The Ties That Bind

Spoonful Of Sugar

Of Sand And Ruin

Deus Ex Arcanum

Silver Tongues

The Coming Storm

Heart Of Darkness

Dead Man's Hand

Within The System

The Long Walk

Something Borrowed

Lock Ourselves In

I honestly don't know if there are that many people on Tumblr (I think most of the blogs are sideblogs upon sideblogs for like 5 people having fun), so if you feel like doing this too, feel free!

[shardssystem]

seeing as it is the spooky season I thought I would ask about the time your OC was the most afraid.

For Liya, it would’ve been her first planeswalk after the Mending. Freshly freed from the Helvault, just discovering that her possession ability had changed, immediately confronted by her new phobias of confined spaces and angels as the PTSD kicks in.

Yri’s moment of greatest fear was actually her spark ignition. Faced with the threat of a memory-erasing remnant Aurora wave, she planeswalked to avoid it, leaving Liya behind.

The time that Vasil was most afraid was also the last time he felt an emotion other than anger. Having condemned Liya to her death by his actions, he believed he was free and clear of retribution from the army he had fled from. He didn’t reckon on the mob justice of Liya’s friends and neighbours.

For Caidi, it would have been their first moments of sentience, pre-sapience. Trapped in an enclosure, being experimented on by an insane goblin, it’s little wonder they broke out and fled to the sewers of Ravnica as soon as the opportunity presented itself.

Kolya is tricky. I feel it’s a tie between coming out to his parents, unsure of their reaction, and the time when, still a child, he was assaulted by bullies who didn’t understand the difference between precognition and causation. He’s had hard times since then, but any fear was tempered by a sense of duty and pride.

Though you might think that for the Coterie, it would be when they faced an entire town bent on their destruction according to their beliefs, but the answer is simpler: having to face the imminent passing of their mother and the subsequent life without her, all owing to the accepted belief that only children in a duo should be allowed to live properly. Single children are to be pitied, and three or more are a sin.

Thanks for the ask, @little-red-rabbit!

[shardssystem]

What is Countdown? That sounds ominous...

Countdown is where Liya meets Yri, and they work together to stop or escape a memory erasing wave headed in their direction. Notable for Yri's introduction, and her spark ignition.

[shardssystem]

A Planeswalker Story - Overview

I recently asked for advice on how I should approach an ongoing writer’s block and drain of enthusiasm, and collating the results suggests that people want to see the overall plans I have for going forward, and hoping I can get to a point that I feel engaged to continue. So with that in mind, let’s go from the top: 

First, the published pieces:

Chapter One: Once Was Lost - Set on the plane of Melenas, common farmer Liya al-Amundi runs afoul of a deserter in the ongoing war between two nations, ending up being falsely accused of unlawful use of magic and condemned to death by hanging. At the instant of her demise, her spark ignites, severing spirit from body and allowing her to persist past death. She uses her new-found possession ability to watch over her now orphaned son as he lives his life and gains a family of his own, using his passing as her cue that her time to remain on her home plane had come to an end, and ventured forth to explore the Multiverse with eternity ahead.

Chapter Two: Dream A Little Dream - Liya travels to Theros, inhabiting Myka, a terminally ill child with a connection to Nyx. She gets noticed by Erebos, due to her undead nature, and enlisted into service to usher souls to his domain across the planes. She uses the opportunity of a renewed youth to learn to read, making friends with another child, Spiros. The two learn of a plot to assassinate the king, which Liya sacrifices herself to disrupt, knowing that Myka would have been dead already if not for her possession. As she dies for a second time, she reveals that Spiros has he skill of magic within him as Myka did. In the future, Spiros, a now renowned warrior hero, is visited by a mysterious individual seeking information.

Chapter Three: Future Past - Liya travels to Tarkir, possessing Chaka, an outrider scout of the Abzan house. A spokesperson of the Temur summons Liya to attend a vision ceremony after one of their seers foresaw her arrival. She receives a prophecy cryptically concerning her personal future and how she might overcome the dangers ahead. Liya pretends to be magically weakened to cover for her lack of combat ability to train. As predicted, a Sultai force presses into Abzan territory, as Liya is given command. She encounters a fearsomely skilled foe who recognises her by name. Confused, she doesn’t notice as a dragon descends to blast the Sultai. The mysterious combatant melts into an oily-substance before disappearing in a similar, planeswalking fashion before Liya’s eyes. Before she can investigate, the dragon condemns the Abzan for engaging with necromancy, sensing Liya’s spiritual presence and using that as evidence before obliterating the entire troop, and reporting to the Dragonlord Dromoka, potentially setting the future of the clan in jeopardy. Liya attempts to apologise as her spark pulls her home.

Chapter Four: Pulling Loose The Threads - Further honing her combat skills, Liya trains on Melenas until an eclipse signals her need to planeswalk. She travels to Innistrad, finding the body of Claude, a hunter, an experiences the opposite side of the gender divide for the first time. She returns Claude to his home in Gavony and spends time with Claude’s wife Cynthia, culminating in her first shared sexual experience since her death, and first time ever as a male. Upon waking, Liya learns that she had spoken in her sleep, revealing names of people from other worlds. She attempts to confess her existence to Cynthia, but is thrown out of the house instead, the names believed to be women in other villages. Liya takes a young boy, Derrich, on a hunt as an excuse to be out of the home situation. Unfortunately for Derrich, nightfall reveals Claude to be a werewolf, and losing control, Liya kills and devours the boy. In the morning, her form reverts to that of Claude, and she respectfully buries the boy’s remains. Still needing to know the next step of the prophecy, she retreats into the woods, away from town. Liya learns that by accepting the transformation, she retains control. She also encounters Nahiri, the shaper mentioned in the prophecy, and follows her to witness her confrontation with Sorin Markov. Liya gets cornered by Avacyn, and confined to the Helvault alongside Nahiri in her spirit form, causing 1000 years of soul-rending pain as her spark fights to recall her to Melenas while the Helvault fights to keep her contained. When the Helvault is destroyed, Liya returns home, finding her magic changed. No longer able to choose a host at will, she is now placed into one at random; a fact she discovers inadvertently by traveling to Ravnica, and taking over an aspiring Rakos entertainer Jasen. She is overwhelmed by the sudden situation and runs into the streets, her new-found claustrophobia and fear of angels causing her to faint at the sight of a Boros guard.

Now we get to the unfinished pieces:

Chapter Five: A Tale Of Two In The City - Damzak, goblin tinkerer experiences a strange event causing her to pass out, but awakens with her mind racing with new thoughts and ideas that eventually get her a position with the Simic Combine as a biomancer, specialising in Ooze metaphysiology, and begins work in constructing a serum of immortality based on the ooze’s ability to reproduce, to many failing attempts, leaving herself immutably morphed into half-ooze. Meanwhile, Zoe has trouble dealing with her burgeoning abilities of precognition. After a sharp impact to the head, she encounters a strange boy who looks after her. As they spend time together, he reveals his name to be Kolya. Zoe recognises the feelings of gender dysphoria as she grows, without knowing the cause, an Kolya helps her on a path to transition, teaching her, now him, what it means to be a boy, and taking him to a therapist that helps Zoe fully realise his intent. The two grow closer as friends. Zoe asks his parents to help with the medical/physical side of his transition, but they refuse, denying his rights. Zoe runs away from home, intending to live alone. As he tells Kolya, Kolya reveals that he is nothing more than a hallucination caused by the injury combining with the precognitive powers, and is essentially his own future self guiding him along the path to where he could be happy. Zoe eventually accepts this, and changes his name to Kolya as he recognises it to be the name of his own grandfather, an a name he had been considering anyway. The newly minted Kolya signs on with the Azorius guild; his precognitive abilities useful to them. Struggling on his wage to afford transition, Kolya enlists the help of an underground Rakdos-aligned surgeon to handle his top surgery, but is unable to o further. The surgeon guides him towards Damzak, who is still working on her theory. In return for providing a sample of genetic material for transitioning hormones to be synthesized, Damzak would provide Kolya with what he felt he needed to become a man. Secretly, Damzak also used this sample in her project, getting results for the first time. However, the project goes awry as the ooze awakens and kills its creator before fleeing into the sewers. Though his supply of hormones had been secured through Damzak’s will to maintain progress on all her experiments, Kolya feels he owes the goblin closure, and seeks out the escaped ooze. He encounters it in the sewers, awakening to its own sapience. It reaches out telepathically, recognising Kolya as its genetic donor and introduces itself as Caidi, an alteration of the project designation “KD”. Unwilling to slay the creature, Kolya takes them home, and learns more about them and their abilities. One day, Kolya encounters a screaming elf in Rakdos colours being questioned by an angelic Boros Legionaire, and takes him away to a nearby doctor.

Chapter Six (Ravnica) - Liya awakens on Ravnica, being assisted by one of the Azorius, Kolya. She tries to explain, but ends up sounding mentally unwell. Not heartless, Kolya takes Liya to see the therapist that had helped him in his dark times, Ji’maz. In confidence, Ji’maz reveals himself to Liya to be a planeswalker like herself, using telepathy so she can communicate as herself, not through her host body. Liya recalls that upon possessing Jasen, she heard his voice whisper that he “just wants to be accepted”. As time goes on, Liya adjusts to her new understanding as Ji’maz helps her get over the accumulate traumas of her planeswalking life to date. Liya gets set up with a job in a bakery, utilising her homemaking skills, under the guidance of former Selesnya guildmember Elnaya, who is also brought into the circle of people who know Liya’s true identity and planeswalking situation. Liya makes friends with Kolya and Caidi, eventually using Caidi’s skill in telepathic construction to form a more serious relationship between the two and they become lovers on a mental level. Liya gets Jasen accepted to the Selesnya under Elnaya’s recommendation after finding out that’s what his goal had been before she had possessed him; he was too nervous to go against his family’s wishes to join the Rakdos. Feeling Liya had reached a level of comfort with her abilities, Ji’maz suggests she take a planeswalk for her own mental health, to prove that it’s not all bad out there, and to emphasise that imprisoning people against their will via possession might not be the healthiest thing. Liya agrees, and resigns herself to being less connected each time she visits a plane for her host’s sake.

Chapter Seven (Kaladesh) - Liya inhabits the body of Elra, a skilled Dwarven pilot and racer recovering from a near-fatal crash leaving her with an artificial arm and leg, imparting Liya with a desire to “just win one more time”. Liya uses Elra’s inherent magic to modify her racing engine with the help of her pit crew, and sets her up to race in an upcoming tournament by qualifying on Elra’s behalf.. Following her win, Liya is congratulated by a pale woman with an odd accent before leaving the plane, her adventure successful.

Chapter Eight (Lorwyn) - While possessing the form of Galumvol, a treefolk, Liya encounters Yri, a faerie who is curious about her friend’s sudden movement; Galumvol is apparently known for being a stationary figure, and self-proclaimed defender of the forest. Thinking this has something to do with her request to “warn everybody” that the treefolk left her, they team up to investigate the potential problem. The pair discover that a lingering remnant wave of the Great Aurora is soon to pass over the land of Lorwyn; not changing it back to Shadowmoor, but acting as a refresh, erasing the memories of all the residents of the plane, save those in the palace of the fae. Yri and Liya try to save as many people as they can in the time they have, but get caught outside as the wave approaches. Yri freaks out, not wanting to lose her memories, and her spark ignites, catching the slower-moving Liya in its wake. She “awakens” still in Galumvol’s body, but the whisper tells her that her job is done; she can go and he can rest as easy as he could. Confused, Liya planeswalks away.

Chapter Nine (Equilor) - Immediately following the events of the previous chapter, we follow Yri as she experiences her first planeswalk, exploring the deceased plane of Equilor. She meets the only other living being on the plane, a pale man with an odd accent who is studying the plane to learn about its existence, and why it seems to be at the end of its life. He explains what being a Planeswalker is to the faerie, how it works, and introduces himself as Neris. Together, they explore more and learn the history of Equilor that is left to learn. Seemingly disappointed he didn’t get what he was seeking, Neris departs, but tells Yri of a place where she might “find a friend or two to help her”: Ravnica.

Chapter Ten (Ravnica) - Liya inhabits the body of Zoda, a Loxodon cleric of the Orzhov. She meets back up with Kolya, who is untrusting at first, until Caidi’s magic reveals the truth. Kolya recieves reports of a troublemaker in the markets, and Liya follows to find Yri trying to steal food, not knowing about the concept of money and trade. A small spark of memory flashes in Liya’s mind as she recalls Yri’s name. After a brief questioning, Yri learns about Liya and is brought into the inner circle using Caidi’s telepathy to show her true from and learn of their adventure on Lorwyn and Yri’s first planeswalk. Yri gets a job as a messenger with the secretive Dimir syndicate owing to her illiteracy and tiny size. Though Liya is enjoying her growing relationships in her home away from home, she starts experiencing nightmares of hurting people, culminating with a belief that she had planeswalked in her sleep, until she realises she’s possessing the body of the deserter that invaded her home on Melenas, leading to her own death. She learns that the man’s name was Vasil Iashvili, an orphan from the neighbouring country that her husband had been drafted into war against. Whenever Liya tries to avoid interacting with her past self, she reverts to the beginning. She tries a variety of methods to change her own fate, all of them unsuccessful. She finally gives in, and reenacts the memory as it originally happened, and learns that the intruder was killed by the townsfolk after her past self was taken away to be hanged, but he possesses a similar power to Liya. Instead of being a spirit though, he remained in his own body; a living corpse. Not lonog after this discovery, she is taken by a force of creatures hidden beneath the earth of Melenas, learning that they are Phyrexians attempting to reach their home. They torture and maim Liya’s host in a process they call “compleation”, causing the man’s spark to ignite properly. Liya learns the man ended up traveling to a Phyrexian stronghold on Dominaria; information that is imparted to her host, and subsequently her, during the remaining compleation process and mental domination. Liya is flung out of the memory to learn it was just a dream engineered by a shadowy figure who simply laughs at her pain. The figure reveals that they had gotten this information from the man himself, and thought it would be fun to deliver more than his warning that he was coming. They also show Liya another nightmare; the man believes that if Liya hadn’t managed to planeswalk away when she did, she would’ve been the victim of the Phyrexian’s research, and the figure shows what could have been: Liya, Herald Of The Phyrexians. Liya wakes up screaming.

Chapter Eleven (Ravnica) - Still shaken by her nightmare, Liya tries to calm down. She brushes Kolya, Caidi, and Yri aside and tries to walk it off. Out of nowhere, she is knocked down by a tackle from behind. The assailant reveals himself to be a cloaked skeleton, dripping a thick black ooze. As soon as her calls her by her real name, she recalls the voice: the Sultai fighter that vanished before the dragon attack on Tarkir. He goes on the mention that she is the cause of his pain, and the pieces fall into place; this isn’t some random assailant, this is Vasil out for revenge. Vasil mentions that he felt the pull to Ravnica, following Liya’s travels but alsoo from an external source. Liya apologises to the dormant Zoda in her own mind, and attempts to planeswalk away to save herself and seek help, only to find her ability blocked by the appearance of the Immortal Sun. War had come to Ravnica. The two undead planeswalkers struggle for a moment before they feel a calling. They slavishly follow it, walking together, finding the dragon Nicol Bolas and the necromancer Liliana Vess summoning an army of zombies. Curious as to their appearance, Liliana learns of both of their true natures, stops Bolas from killing them right there, and commands them to join join the Dreadhorde on their mission to find planeswalkers and harvest their sparks. They would of course sacrifice themselves too, but after they were useful. Between Vasil’s natural combat abilities and Liya’s borrowed clerical healing, they proved an effective team. Unable to control her own body, Liya meets Ji’maz, and throws him to the metaphorical wolves, as Vasil takes his spark and life. They encounter the trio of Kolya, Caidi, and Yri trying to help civilians. They were pleased to see Liya was okay until Caidi tried to reach out, warning the others of the danger. Before Liya and Vasil could catch Yri, their spark-wielding target, the compulsion was broken. While the chase had been going, the Gatewatch had succeeded in ending the threat. Vasil took his opening to escape, not fancying his chances against Liya with her friends to back her up. In the following cleanup, Jace Beleren senses Liya’s domination of Zoda, and reads her mind, learning of her role under Liliana. She is given a chance to explain herself, and reveals her true name and nature to the mind-mage. Apologetic that she had gotten caught up in their conflict, Jace asks the elementalist Nissa Revane for a favour. Nissa entwines Liya’s spirit to the leylines of Ravnica, granting her a proper home on the plane which would counter Melenas’s ownership of her soul and restoring her magic-borrowing capabilities. In return, as she fades back to Melenas, temporarily unable too be heard, she swears a her version of the Gatewatch Oath, overheard from a conversation between Jace and Gideon.

Chapter Twelve (Ecruna) - Liya travels to the plane of Ecruna, a plane of endless daylight. She discovers that she is in her own form, not possessing anyone. This is due to the nature of death on the plane; direct sunlight destroys the dead, but they otherwise continue to live normally. Liya learns of a ritual designed for people who no longer wish to linger as one of the shadowkin, and witnesses one such event as a person is conveyed to a cave and engulfed in light. Some people go missing, and Liya assists in the search. She discovers a secret tunnel in the cave and finds that the people who seek their final end aren’t being given that at all, but kept prisoner by a mad scientist trying to research how to reverse the effects of the plane, and allow him to walk in the sunlight without fear. Liya tricks the scientist into standing in direct light and he is destroyed. Before she can free the others, she finds them already freed, but mostly annihilated. She asks a survivor what happened, and they tell her of a place stranger who wanted to talk to the scientist, and lashed out when they discovered Liya’s intervention. She departs the plane, mulling over the new information.

Chapter Thirteen (Ravnica) - Liya takes time to rest and spend time with her friends, and try to overcome her fear of angels as she possesses the body of Brakne, an angelic Boros legionnaire. Yri shows her some of her favourite spots around the city, usually all but impossible to access without flight. The two bond as Yri talks about her honest feelings regarding her spark.

Chapter Fourteen (Sym-Po) - Liya travels to the plane of Sym-Po, having to adjust to life without sound due to the plane’s effects. She learns rudimentary sign language, and enters into the Harvest Festival, choosing cooking as her specialty, but is outclassed by the aesthetic styles of the competition. Liya picks up some tricks to improve her technique for her part-time job at Elnaya’s bakery.

Chapter Fifteen (Dominaria) - Vasil recovers and plans, as he recalls his life. We learn that time moves a lot faster on Melenas than other parts of the Multiverse, and that Vasil played a significant role in the Phyrexian conquest of Mirrodin, as well as other nameless worlds.

Chapter Sixteen (Amonkhet) - Liya travels to Amonkhet, and assists with the restoration efforts. The surviving god of the plane, Hazoret, senses Liya’s presence and asks for an explanation. She explains herself, and has a discussion about the nature of deific entities, as it relates to Erebos’s deal with her.

Chapter Seventeen (Arcavios) - Liya travels to Arcavios, to visit Ji’maz’s homeland. She has to balance her host Aavai’s study schedule with her own desire to explore and learn from other departments. While there, Liya meets the pale woman she last saw on Kaladesh, who gives her name as Syren. She is interested in necromancy, but is drawn to Liya after Liya lets slip that they’ve met before.

Chapter Eighteen (Mercadia) - Liya travels to Mercadia and gets embroiled in a plot between rival merchant families.

Chapter Nineteen (Plin) - Yri gets bored and begs Liya to take her on a planeswalking adventure. She agrees, and the two arrive on Plin and have to adjust to the dual-bodied nature of the plane’s magic. They discover the history of The Coterie, and the dangers they represent.

Chapter Twenty (Alara) - Liya travels to Alara

Chapter Twenty-One (Fiora) - Liya travels to Fiora. A confrontation with The Coterie is teased, but the three escape before Liya can seek aid.

Chapter Twenty-Two (Dominaria) - Liya travels to Dominaria and ends up in the body of a Sliver, corrupted by an external hivemind. Struggling to make sense of the alien sensations, Liya ends up completing the sliver’s mission to betray its entire colony to the other hivemind. Liya feels terrible that this seemed necessary.

And this is what I currently have, even as my brain attempts to spin more. But at least now anyone who was every interested in Liya’s story is roughly on the same page I am, stuck as I am on Chapter 5.

[shardssystem]

Seeing as I primarily use this for fanwalker content (or would like to!), I’ll copy a good idea and make a pinned post of my current roster.

Liya al-Amundi

Human/Spirit — White > Colourless > Variable — Born -2840 AR (2669 ZC), Died -2813 AR (2696 ZC), aged 27.

Plane Of Origin: Melenas

First Planeswalk: Jund

Currently residing on Ravnica

Main Abilities: Possession of potential, unsparked individuals; access to host’s abilities.

Visited Planes Known: Alara, Theros, Tarkir, Innistrad, Ravnica, Lorwyn, Kaladesh, Ecruna, Sym-Po, Amonkhet, Arcavios, Mercadia, Plin, Fiora, Mirrodin.

Vasil Iashvili

Human/Phyrexian/Skeleton — Black — Born -2845 AR (2664 ZC), Died -2813 AR (2696 ZC), aged 32.

Plane Of Origin: Melenas

First Planeswalk: Dominaria

Current whereabouts unknown

Main Abilities: Physical liquid manipulation, limited consciousness infection.

Visited Planes Known: Dominaria, Theros, Tarkir, Ravnica, Arcavios.

Yri

Faerie — Blue/Black

Plane Of Origin: Lorwyn

First Planeswalk: Equilor

Currently residing on Ravnica

Main Abilities: Illusion, Distraction.

Visited Planes Known: Equilor, Ravnica, Plin, Ixalan, Segovia.

Caidi

Ooze — Blue/Green

Plane Of Origin: Ravnica (Planebound)

Main Abilities: Telepathy, Mental Projection, Limited Polymorphism.

Kolya Volowin

Human — White/Blue

Plane Of Origin: Ravnica (Planebound)

Main Abilities: Precognition.

The Coterie Of Effigies - Neris (M), Syren (F), Eyrn (NB)

Human — Blue/Black/Red/Green

Plane Of Origin: Plin

First Planeswalk: Vryn/Zendikar/Kamigawa

Current whereabouts unknown

Main Abilities: Life drain, foresight, limited necromancy, duplication.

Visited Planes Known: Vryn, Zendikar, Kamigawa, Equilor, Kaladesh, Sym-Po.

[shardssystem]

“Holiday In Eorzea” - A Planeswalker Story

We finally managed to do a thing! This has been a while in the making, and will be continuing for (I’m told) quite a long while, but I feel it’s in a good enough position to begin posting - Presenting A Holiday In Eorzea, a MTG/FFXIV/Fanfic crossover... thing. Following the story of Liya al-Amundi and her journey across the Multiverse, and the line between life and death, this is a take on the epic tale of Final Fantasy XIV through new eyes, and I hope people enjoy it. More to come as it happens!

[holiday-in-eorzea]

Bitter Medicine

Morning light crossed my eyes, as I awoke within the common room of the Quicksand. Folks around me were already setting about their business, or were choosing to rest for longer, each being careful as to not disturb others too much as they passed through the room. I stretched before rising, and made myself ready to start another day. Finding a private moment, I attempted to planeswalk again, hoping that whatever force was keeping me here had subsided, but to no avail. It was not like the influence of the Immortal Sun during the invasion of Ravnica, this was as though I had no ability at all. No fading away, no pull of the soul, nothing. If I couldn’t feel that energy within that indicated my spark, the source of my power and abilities, I would believe that I had never had such a gift. Resigned, I made my way to the bar, and set about obtaining a morning meal. Momodi, to my surprise was already hard at work. I wondered if the woman ever rested, as she walked over.

“Well, younglin', how are you findin' our fine Ul'dah, then? Got your bearin's about you yet? If so, mayhap it's time you ventured beyond the city walls. The bustlin' streets of UI'dah are one thing, but the wilds of Thanalan - that's another altogether.”

“Somewhat, yes. Though I didn’t get much of an opportunity to wander last night.”

Momodi laughed. “Unless you’re one of them that walk in their sleep, I hear you. Mind, I’m not kickin’ you out or naught, but I know a bloke you might fancy speakin' to, and he you. Name of Papashan, You'll find him over at the UI'dah Dispatch Yard. No doubt he'll have some work for you.” She pointed towards the main entrance of the building. “The Dispatch Yard's over in central Thanalan. Just head out the door across the hall and you'll see the Gate of Nald staring right back at you. Pass through it and head east. You'll come upon it 'fore long.” Her face took on a serious look. “There's dangers beyond the wall, though. More than I'd care to count. Nothin' too terrible, mind you, but feisty enough to attack if you draw near. Don't say nobody cared enough to warn you.”

I nodded. “Thank you for the warning, and for all your hospitality so far. Should I have the coin, I will assuredly return to this fine establishment.”

Momodi smiled broadly and winked. “See that you do!”

The morning sun was bright and warm. It took a moment for my eyes to adjust to the difference in light, but it was nothing I was not used to; from what I had seen thus far, Ul’dah was similar in weather to my home plane of Melenas, though it was a close call for which had more greenery.

Indeed, across from the Quicksand, a large open gate stood. The very same gate I had entered through on my arrival via wagon. Next to the gate, a Lalafell man stood next to one of the riding birds I had witnessed, adorned in a costume designed to emulate their appearance. As I approached, the man shook his head, and held out a hand.

“If you came looking to hire a chocobo porter, I’m afraid I must disappoint you. Our birds are very fickle creatures, and tend to become agitated around those with a certain lack of demeanor. Return once you have proven you can handle yourself, and I will personally see that you are assigned our best bird.”

“Sorry? Ah, I was just curious about these birds in general. You called them ‘chocobo’?”

The man gave a confused look; one I had started to become familiar with. It was the look of someone who was encountering an abnormality; I should clearly know this already in his eyes.

“Yes, these are chocobo. And normally, you could find an attendant in practically any city in a similar uniform to hire one to assist in traversing the open plains of Eorzea. But... where did you say you were from?”

I cleared my throat hurriedly, knowing I had made another misstep. “Um, I didn’t actually. I’m new in town, you see. First time to Ul’dah.”

“And they don’t have...?” Luckily, the man was cut off by another who presented a paper to him, and he left to attend to saddling one of the birds, the chocobo, to serve the newcomer. I took the momentary distraction to slip away. Mentally, I cursed myself. This was exactly the kind of thing the tomestone was meant to be for; finding out information without the need to show my hand to others. Too many innocents had been exposed to the scope of the Multiverse before, and I wasn’t about to increase that number, if I could help it. The knowledge of the existence of other worlds could be harmful to some people, if they couldn’t accept or understand the idea.

Remembering I had promised to return to the guildhall, I made my way through the already bustling streets of the city to the Coliseum. As I parted the imposing door to the entrance, I all but collided with a Lalafell, as she attempted to exit at the same time. If not for the height difference, it might have ended another way.

“Oh my, I’m so sorry! Are you alright?” I asked. Aside from a fresh amount of dust on her clothing, signifying her as a guild member, she appeared no worse for wear.

“Aye, I’m fine. But you-” She paused from dusting herself off and squinted slightly at my face. “You’re Liya, right?”

“Um... yes? That’s me. Sorry.”

“I was just sent to fetch you for the guildmaster, so my thanks for making my job easier! She’s expecting you.” The woman waved a hand gesturing to follow. The guildmaster herself maintained her watch over the training pit, but had also taken a larger blade to oil and sharpen the edge.

“Good that you return, Liya, though it is somewhat a shame you chose to do so in the early morn, rather than the evening. Not many would welcome letting loose when there is much of the day ahead.” Mylla gave a look of resignation and weariness towards me. I got the impression an amount of people were looking forward to the excuse of the freeing attitude a welcoming party might consist of, and I imagined the guildmaster had her share of worries to put aside, even for a moment.

“I apologise, guildmaster. The hour grew late despite me, and by the end of my errand for Miss Momodi, the toll of our exercise and the day prior asked that I take a rest before rejoining you and your companions.” I bowed my head, hoping the sincerity would be evident.

“Our companions, gladiator. Remember well, you are welcomed here among our number.” Mylla flashed an accepting smile as I raised my head to face her. “Jovialities aside, there is much to be done before you could count yourself a master of the art. You may have exceeded my expectations in our match, but rest assured there will be far greater challenges to come. If you wish to truly master the sword, you must test yourself against a wide variety of foes. To this end, I present to you this hunting log.” She moved over to the guildhall wall, and pulled a leather-bound tome from a small shelf, along with a wax-coated stick of charcoal, before handing them to me.

“It contains information on creatures ideal for a gladiator-in-training. You will doubtless gain valuable experience should you seek out and slay them. It is only with such practice that you will recognize and eliminate the deficiencies in your technique. Feel free to mark the pages as you see fit, and should your insights prove educational, they will be added to the pages of future logs. We all benefit when one does.”

I turned the charcoal in my hands; it felt vastly different to the sticks I had used in a number of lives before, but I held my tongue. Already I had made missteps I was not keen to repeat. Mylla spoke again, refocusing my attention.

“I will now instruct you on another fundamental aspect of what it means to be a gladiator: commanding an opponent's attention. As gladiators, we are trained to engage enemies at close range, weathering their attacks as we deliver our own. This is where some of your skills lie. However, there are times when we must do battle alongside allies whose talents are not the same as our own. In such a situation, your role is not to slay the enemy in front of you, but rather to defend the man beside you. We do this by eliciting the enmity of our opponents through attacks and techniques designed to incite their hatred. Whoever oversaw your training prior knew of these skills, but evidently chose to focus on other areas.”

Once more, my thoughts returned to the past, and the morning sun of Tarkir; the Khan of the Abzan instructing on the traditional forms.

“You must learn to draw the enemy's attention to yourself and to trust in your stout constitution to endure, In so doing, you protect your weaker comrades who would otherwise perish. To help you better understand this, there is a task I would have you perform.”

“Of course, guildmaster.”

“Just Mylla is fine. We are all brothers and sisters in arms, so it would not do to be constantly so far above when battle is done shoulder-to-shoulder. Regardless, it just so happens that Momodi of the Quicksand has requested our assistance—a gang of Lominsan marauders has paraded into town and begun harassing people outside her establishment. We recieved the dispatch not long afore your arrival, and in fact I had tasked a messenger to seek you out.”

“Not that I am not honoured, but surely others are equally capable, if not more so?”

”First, many here have already practiced these techniques in their training, having come to us with less ability than you displayed prior. Second, commanding focused attention is a deficiency I noted during our contest that you would be well served to learn and master. And finally, I am your guildmaster, and if you wish to remain here, you would do well to heed instruction when it is given.”

I could feel my face grow warm, as nearby onlookers witnessed this public dressing-down. “Yes guildmaster, sorry.”

Mylla waved her hand dismissively. “There is no need for apologies, Liya. You came to learn, and part of my role is to teach. What good would it do to turn away promising recruits for such trifles? But as for these marauders, men like these prey on the weak, but will turn tail and flee at the first sign of defiance. You need not resort to violence - it will suffice to show them that you are not afraid of them, and will not tolerate their behavior.”

I nodded. Regrettably, I had encountered such instigators across many worlds.

Mylla continued. “Seek out the Lominsans and make your presence known by bellowing, 'Face me, marauder!' In this way, you will protect the people of Ul'dah, as you would your allies in battle.”

“And if they fight back?”

“They won’t. But if they choose such a ridiculous option, provisions have been taken care of so as to free you from potential problems with the Brass Blades. Now, go and show those Lominsans what a Gladiator looks like!”

I gave a quick salute, adjusted my scabbard, and exited into the oppressive heat of the day.

Returning to the Quicksand, I rather quickly spotted the marauders Mylla had informed me about. About as wide as they were tall, several men, or Roegadyn as the Tomestone informed me, with broad axes strapped to their backs, each wearing salt-dried leathers and loose cotton clothing, had dispersed around the main promenade. I took a deep breath, and firmed up my posture before approaching the closest. The marauder had cornered a young lady, who was glancing around in fright, eager for an escape.

“Alls I’m saying, is ye don’t know what yer missin’. I know ‘ow to treat a girl right, an’ you can show me ‘round ‘fore takin’ me home an’ all.”

‘Pardon me,” I said, trying my best to reach up and tap the man on his shoulder.

He turned around, and gave a brief look towards me, before sneering dismissively “...Just turn around an' walk away, 'venturer.” Steadfast, I refused to budge.

“Are ye deaf? Get lost!” He began to turn back to the young lady.

“Excuse me! I was talking to you!” I grabbed his arm, and pulled him back towards me.

“The 'ells is yer problem!? Maybe she likes 'er men rough! What're ye s'posed to be, 'er bleedin' lady-in-waitin'!?” He squared up, posturing, but noticed the blade at my hip. Suddenly, that bravado retreated. He gave a look over his shoulder at the lady, before returning his attention to me.

“Bah. It don't matter, ye've gone an' spoiled the mood...” The marauder walked off, taking the extra step to leave space as to not even touch me. I watched as he made his way towards the other districts before turning to the young lady.

“Are you alright?” I asked. She nodded gratefully.

“T- thank you. He... wouldn’t take no for an answer, and I got so scared I couldn’t even move.”

“It’s okay now. Just make sure you get home safe, alright?”

She nodded again. “I will. Thank you again.” She ran down the steps leading to the Quicksand’s doors, fixing her top as she went.

“Ye think ye can get away wit’ this!?” A roar of anger from further down the street pulled my attention, and I walked over. Another of the marauders was towering over a merchant beside an overturned cart, a variety of crafted trinkets scattered to the ground.

“What’s going on here?” I called out on approach. The Roegadyn glanced over his shoulder at me.

“The 'ells ye want? This don't concern ye, so bugger off!”

"You know, I think it will concern me in a second.” I assumed my stance, ready to draw my blade if necessary. The marauder turned, seeming ready to continue the argument, before taking in the scene. I could see the quick mental arithmetic running through his head before he took a step backwards.

“Ye know yer friend 'ere's a Twelve-damned cheat!? Thinks 'e can charge us more 'cause we're foreigners! But 'e'll get 'is own back, mark me words!” The marauder shot a dark look towards the merchant before retreating along the street, following the same path his fellow had taken.

I helped the merchant to his feet. “Here, let me give you a hand.” Between the two of us, we managed to right the cart, and retrieve most of the trinkets. He was visibly shaken, but seemed to be recovering quickly.

“I appreciate your intercession there.” he said.

“Just doing the right thing. You have a good day, and look after yourself.”

“Can I interest you, while you’re here, in a lovely brooch or pendant?” The merchant held up a brass piece of work, dusting it off slightly.

I had to hand it to the man; always hunting for the next sale is one of the primary tenants of the merchant life. “Ha, no thank you. I have business elsewhere and shouldn’t linger.”

He gave a flashy smile. “Worth a try at least. My thanks again.”

I mopped my brow. The temperature had increased since I had left the guildhall. I could see why so much of the open space here was as shaded as it was. A shrill yelp drove that thought from my mind as I followed the sound. Sure enough, another of the Lominsan marauders. This time, they had an arm leaned against a wall, intimidating a Lalafell man, standing in a way to suggest violence if he ran.

“Come on now, just let him go. It’s too warm for either of us to be doing this.” I said, my breath coming slightly harder than before. The marauder looked over, barely taking his eyes off his victim.

“Bugger off! Can't ye see I'm 'avin' a civilized conversation with this poxy whoreson!?”

“What did you call me?” the Lalafell piped up. The marauder growled, and the man squeaked and fell silent.

“There’s no need for this. But if you insist on this path, I’m afraid you will be contending with me.” I said, trying to remain calm with an even tone. The marauder tried to fake a lunge at me, but the previous encounters had established they wouldn’t dare try anything against an armed individual of unknown skill.

“What? Ye blamin' me 'cause this little shite shat 'is own pants!? Well, bugger 'im, an' bugger you, too!” He puffed himself up, but then carefully extracted himself from the scene, giving me a wide berth. I was starting to think this was more about building confidence than martial practice.

“I’m fine, by the way!” the Lalafell exclaimed as I watched the marauder leave for peace of mind.

“Oh, I’m sorry. Did you want him to come back?” I replied, still watching the retreating Roegadyn.

“Eep! N-no, assuredly not! A thousand pardons, my lady!” the Lalafell begged, as he scurried away.

I hoped that was the end of them, until I heard a cry of pain and the sound of splintering wood. Tucked into a private corner, just off the main street, yet another marauder was harassing an average citizen, though this encounter had turned violent. A man was lying in amongst the pieces of broken boxes, cradling an arm.

“Ye gots a lot o' nerve, thinkin' ye can talk to me like that!” The marauder yelled, stepping back to deliver a kick to the man’s ribs.

“HEY!” I cried out, sword drawn, all but throwing myself in the way, causing the marauder to hesitate. “If it’s a fight you want, then just try me!”

The marauder raised his hands. “Oi, come on now, 'e was disrespectin' me proud Sea Wolf 'eritage!” He paused to spit on the ground, aiming towards me enough that I could tell it was trying to intimidate, but far enough that he had no intention of pushing forward with the idea. “Fine, I'll leave the bastard be, but we ain't finished!”

“Leave. Now.” I pivoted to the aggressive form I had been taught, preparing to strike, but the marauder took the out I had left, and swiftly withdrew from the scene.

I carefully helped the man up, taking particular care of the arm, which looked broken. “Do you need assistance in getting some help for that?”

Through gritted teeth and clear pain, the man shook his head. “Nay, I’ll be right. I can get to the Alchemist’s guild an' have this taken care of, right quick. He attempted a smile, but it was swiftly twisted into a grimace of pain.”

“No, I’ll get some help for you. Just hold on.” I ran towards the aetheryte plaza, and enlisted the aid of one of the Brass Blades, who helped the injured man off the street.

Looking around, I couldn’t see or hear any further distractions, so I could call this a job done. That was, until a breaking of glass and a yell came from inside the Quicksand. I sighed, but climbed the stairs to investigate.

[shardssystem]

April showers bring May flowers, tell me about your oc in the language of flowers or at the very least what their favorite flowers are?

Liya’s bouquet would contain Anemone (Forsaken), Rose of Dark Crimson (Mourning), and Sweetpea (Departure). All of which signify her identity as a spirit.

Yri would have a bouquet of Mock Orange (Deceit), Red Hyacinth (Play), and Crocus (Cheerfulness). She’s tricksy, but ultimately just coming from a place of having fun.

Vasil’s bouquet would contain Orange Lily (Hatred), Petunia (Resentment and Anger), and Monkshood (Beware, A Deadly Foe Is Near). He’s had a hard life only made worse in death.

Caidi would have a bouquet of Daisy (Innocence), Hellebore (Anxiety), and Poppy (Imagination). They’re finding their way in the world, and trying their best with their ability.

Kolya’s bouquet would contain Gladiolus (Gladiators), Azalea (Womanhood) (withered), and Tiger Lily (Pride). Kolya’s journey through navigating gender and what that means was tough, but he’s much happier now that’s largely resolved, and he has his place in the guild.

A bouquet for The Coterie would feature Blue Violet (Watchfulness), Narcissus (Egotism), and Primrose (I Can’t Live Without You). As a trio, they’re never fully asleep, and literally wouldn’t exist without each other.

No idea if these look any good, but thanks for the ask!

[holiday-in-eorzea]

Signing Up

Ul’dah was an imposing city, built to last. Not as defensible as Arashin, I noticed. The architecture reminded me more of the sprawling city of Ravnica, but designed to draw your eye in particular directions; chief of which being the centre spired building I would have to imagine was the Sultana’s palace. There’s a bit of Orzhov taste to it. As I took in the expansive surrounds, a man’s voice called out.

“Oi, ‘venturer! Over here!”

I turned to see a man dressed in dark shades, though the material looked light and thin; ideal for the heat of the day.

“Me?” I replied, pointing to myself.

“Aye, I mean you. Fresh off the carriage, by any chance?”

I was shocked that I could be so easily found out. I must have let something show in my expression though, as he continued heedless. “Name’s Wymond, an’ my business is knowin’ every bugger else’s! An' I ain’t seen you ‘round before. Therefore, you’re new!”

I was shocked at how easily I seemed to have already revealed my cover, but before I could respond, the man, Wymond, kept talking.

“What if I was to offer you some invaluable advice by way of welcome to our fair city? Free of charge even! Just this once though.” He said with a wry grin.

“It depends on the advice.” I replied carefully, my hand gesturing towards the hilt of the sword at my hip. I needed to watch myself until I found out more about my situation.

Wymond held up his hands defensively, suggesting he meant no harm. “Anyone with eyes can tell you don’t know your way ‘round here. An’ if I let you go on like that, you’re liable to get mugged in some dark alley or worse, an’ I don’t want that on my conscience.”

He turned and gestured with a nod towards a building with banners at the front. “You’d best be headin’ to The Quicksand, and speak with Momodi. She runs the Adventurer’s Guild, an’ can set you on the right path.”

I nodded. “That sounds fair. Thank you.”

“Nah, just doin’ the decent thing. But that’s all you’re gettin’ for free, mind.” He said with a wink that was hard to see behind his darkened lenses. “Quick word in your shell-like though;  that accent you have? I can’t place it, and I reckon I’ve heard most all of ‘em. So try as to stay out of trouble if it’s lookin’ for you. We don’t get a lot of unknown sorts all that often, and there may be other buggers ‘round who’d take that as a sign of an easy mark. So keep an eye.”

I hadn’t considered that; it rarely, if ever, had come up in my travels. “Thank you, I will.” I waved a quick goodbye and headed towards the building.

The Quicksand revealed itself to be a tavern with a common room, with upstairs areas for accommodation. Despite the hour, the common room was busy; I supposed people seeking to escape the heat. Behind the counter at the far side of the room, a young girl stood on a stool in order to see over the counter to survey the room, a heavy book placed in front of her. There were a couple of others behind the counter at other points around the room, but overhearing conversation indicated they were looking after the accommodations of patrons and taking orders for meals. As I approached, I quickly corrected my initial thought, as the “young girl” turned out to be a short, though otherwise adult-proportioned woman with similarly pointed ears to the carriage driver I had previously seen. They could be relatives of the Kithkin I had encountered on Lorwyn. The woman noticed my approach, and smiled.

“Why, hello there! Who might you be? If you’re lookin’ to join the Adventurer’s Guild, you’ve come to the right place.”

“Are you Momodi?” I asked.

“Sure am! And I own this fine establishment, if it pleases you. I also happen to manage the Adventurer’s Guild here in Ul’dah. So you might say that lookin’ after green adventurers like yourself is my vocation.” She swept her hand in a presentational fashion; a knowingly false modesty about her as she continued.

“And lucky for you that it is. Without someone like me to steer you right, you’d soon find yourself out in the middle of nowhere, caught up in business you don’t understand!”

I caught myself before protesting. While I technically had over a thousand years of traveling the multiverse and adventurous tales under my belt, she had a point; more often than not, I found myself drawn into situations without context and understanding. Mostly due to the nature of my being, of course, but not exclusively.

“You may be right about that, Madam Momodi.” I replied with a small, self-deprecating laugh.

“Just Momodi is fine, I’m not nearly old enough to be called ‘madam’ just yet!” Her mouth was smiling, but her eyes sharpened at the remark. “Between the Amal’jaa tousling with the Sultanate, the Garlean Empire plotting something, and all the regular folk just getting by, there’s a lingerin’ air of worry and loss.” She gave a small resigned laugh, shaking her head slightly before continuing. “And little wonder. It’s scarce been five years since the lesser moon cracked open like a giant egg, releasin’ an abomination intent on turnin’ the realm into an eighth hell....”

“Sorry, what?! The moon... broke?” I was shocked, but my exclamation didn’t stop Momodi from continuing, lost in a memory.

“So much was lost in the blink of an eye. ‘Twas like the end of the world had come at last. But then things begin to get foggy. Everyone’s got their own version of what happened next -- some of ‘em, two or three...” Momodi gave a start, as if remembering I was there.

“You’d think people would remember somethin’ like that -- but the fact is, they don’t. Nobody does.”

“How is that possible?”

“Don’t rightly know. But there is one thing the survivors agree on though: the part played by a band of adventurers who laid down their lives for a realm that wasn’t their own. They fought valiantly, and like so many others, they never returned. Deeds worth rememberin’, I’m sure you’ll agree. It’s just a shame our recollections of those brave heroes are as jumbled as those of the Calamity itself.” I could hear the emphasis placed on the word “calamity”, a signifier of importance, much like when I learned of the Mending that had affected the entire multiverse.

“Whenever we try to call their faces to mind, it's like they're standin’ between us and the midday sun, permanently silhouetted… I'll bet that sounds poetic to you doesn't it? Well it's not. It's bloody infuriatin’.” She gave a small grimace, almost as if the memory, or lack thereof hurt her.

“But even if we can't remember them, we’ll not let ‘em be forgotten, and so we call ‘em the Warriors of Light. And they’ll forever stand as a shinin’ example of what adventurers can achieve. That's why I welcome new arrivals like yourself to our fair city.” Momodi made a sweeping gesture with her hand. “All I ask is that you lend a helpin’ hand, and try to leave Ul’dah in a better state than you found her. If you can promise that, I’d be happy to let you join the guild.”

I nodded solemnly. “I think I can handle that.”

Momodi nodded along with me, as if she were expecting that answer.

“All right, then! A promise is a promise, now! I'm counting on your help to put the past behind us. We need people workin’ and spendin’ and bickerin’ like the old days! And a happy and prosperous Ul’dah means more business for the Quicksand, too! Anyroad, let's make this official.”

She placed an ink pen in the centre of the ledger then slid it towards me on the counter.

“Go ahead and write your name in the register – neat as you can.”

A brief moment of worry crossed my mind; would they even use the same script as I'd learnt? Nothing for it but to try, I thought. I took the ink pen in my hand and made my name out as best as I could. Momodi quickly took the book and pen back before looking at it.

“...Liya al-Amundi. Well that ain't that a charmin’ name. Just rolls off the tongue, it does. Though your handwritin’ isn't anythin’ I've seen before. Where did you say you came from again?”

“I didn't,” I said. “I just came into town.” I tried to swallow my nerves.

Momodi gave me a little wink; like she’d dealt with this type of business before, and knew better to ask too many questions.

“I suppose it's no business of mine. Alright, Miss al-Amundi! On behalf of the Adventurers’ Guild, I officially –”

She was cut off by a cry from behind. We both turned to look as a man was being pushed around by a group of people; two human-sized, one smaller.

“Please, sir, be merciful! Twelve as my witness, I swear to you, I'll bring you your money!” He was shoved to the ground before he could make it much for the protest. 

“In the East, it is said that even a merciful God might be driven to vengeance if thrice blasphemed. Be grateful you were given a fourth chance to offend. You two, attend to this scum.” The small man gestured to what I assumed were his bodyguards, or more likely, enforcers. 

The man lowered his head to the ground again.

“No, please! Mercy!” he cried.

Momodi shrugged. “Well, ain't that a sorry sight. Nor an uncommon one, if I'm honest. Don't worry, though - if you work hard, I doubt you'll end up like him. Just the same, if you ever need a bit of advice about one thing or another, pay me a visit. Just don't go botherin' me every time you stub your bloody toe, all right?”

She blushed and mocked fanning her face. “'Course I do enjoy hearing a lady muse on the many manhoods of her acquaintance from time to time...” “Anyroad, welcome to Ul'dah, Liya! Take a moment to catch your breath and I'll teach you a little about our fair city.”

“I might just take you up on that offer” I said, my cheeks reddening. “Though, maybe not that other one in particular.” Suddenly, I realised how dry my throat was from the conversation. “Actually, might I trouble you for a cup of water, or some other refreshment? I'm a little tired from the road.”

“Of course! Here, on the house.” Momodi pulled a pitcher from the bar behind her, and poured a clay mug of clear liquid before handing it over. “Just this once, mind. Ul'dah isn't a city where you can expect somethin' for nothin', you know.” The water was crisp and cool; I wondered how they managed to keep it in such a state, considering the environment. Momodi put a finger thoughtfully to her lips before continuing. “Before you go chargin' off to find your fortune, I've a few basic tasks I'd like you to perform so as to help you get to know the place.” She held up one finger. “First of all, I want you to visit the aetheryte plaza. To get there, head west from here 'til you reach Emerald Avenue, then look to the north. You should see a giant, floatin' crystal called an aetheryte. If it weren't for aetherytes, travellin' around Eorzea would be a damn sight more troublesome than it is. 'Course, you still need to attune with 'em before you can use 'em, so be sure to do that with the one in the plaza. You ever attune with an aetheryte before, Liya? If not, just lay your hand on the thing and you'll see what I mean.” So, this plane must be called Eorzea, I thought to myself. Momodi continued on with her instruction, holding up a second finger.

“When you've done that, I want you to pay a visit to the Gladiators' Guild over at the Coliseum.” She pointed at the blade at my hip. “Assumin' that sword ain't just for show, you might consider trainin' there.” Third finger in the air. “And finally, I want you to visit the Sapphire Avenue Exchange, over on the Steps of Thal. Goods from all over Eorzea and beyond turn up there every day. You'll have no trouble findin' armour, weapons, or anythin' else a fledglin' adventurer like yourself might need. You might say that everythin's is for sale here in Ul'dah - as long as you've got the gil. Just make sure as you don't pay more than you ought, Liya. There's plenty as won't scruple to swindle unsuspectin' foreigners like yourself, 'specially if they think no one's lookin' out for their best interests.” She pulled an envelope from her pocket “Which is why I'm givin' you this letter. When you visit the exchange, find a gentleman named Seseroga and give it to him. He'll be happy to tell you about the markets once he's read it.” Momodi ticked off the three fingers on her hand. “In short, then; visit the plaza, the Gladiators' Guild, and the Sapphire Avenue Exchange.” Momodi nodded at that. “Simple.”

She paused for a moment. “Oh, but before you go, a word of advice: while there're more than a few unsavoury characters out there who'll try to take advantage of you, there are also some there are also some with honest-to-goodness problems you should consider offerin' a helpin' hand to. A lot of folk are lured to this city by the promise of wealth and power. What many of them fail to realise that instead of chasin' after gil the moment they get here, they ought to be makin' friends.” I nodded. I had been all too familiar with the plight of the downtrodden across the Multiverse, and those in a similar situation.

“Let it be known that you're willin' to give as much as you get, and opportunities will come your way.” Momodi looked over to the right, leaning on the bar and straining to point across a comparatively vast expanse. She pointed out a gentleman dressed in a green tunic. “Speakin' of which, you should speak with the Smith over yonder - those lads always have some good advice for up-and-comin' adventurers. Otherwise, that's about it from me. It's past time you got goin'. Oh, and let me know when you've finished, will you? That way, I won't spend my days worryin' that you're down to your smallclothes without a gil to your name.”

The man in green, the Smith, I supposed, noticed we were looking at and talking about him, so he glanced in our direction and gave a small wave, acknowledging that he had been a subject of our conversation.

I turned to leave.

“Actually, hang on a second.” Momodi stopped me.

“What is it? I asked.

“Just quickly, for my own curiosity: what am I?”

I was confused. “Pardon?”

She repeated herself, staring a hole through me. “What am I?”

I was flustered; I couldn't think of what to say. Momodi nodded to herself.

“I thought as much. The way you reacted about hearin' about the Calamity indicated that you might not be from a place as was familiar with the local customs.”

I blushed, knowing the truth of the situation but unwilling to explain at the moment.

She reached under the counter. “Now, normally I wouldn't do this for just about anyone, but you seem to be a special case - so here.” She handed over a black slate about the size of a dinner plate. With a touch of her finger, it lit up.

“This here is called a tomestone. With that, you'll be able to see information about a great deal of many things, as long as you’re pointed at what you want to know about and have the time to do so. I wouldn't recommend just standin' out in the middle of a fight, tryin' to learn everythin', for example. So as you can get familiar with it, I'm givin' you permission, just this once - try it on me. Normal folk won’t take as kindly to you knowin’ their business so easily - if they know you’re doin’ it.”

I reached out and took the device. It was lighter than I had expected, and given the apparent fragility of it, I feared it might break the instant I touched it, but it lit up but my touch, like it did for her.

“So how do I...?”

She pointed out a small picture on the plate.

“This icon is your information scanner. Point the flat side towards me, and push this button.”

I did so and suddenly a stream of information appeared on the device. Words appeared: “Momodi Modi, Quickstand Proprietress – Lalafell, Dunesfolk”, as well as some other details that I had no context for, but nothing too compromising.

“Oh, is this what you mean?” I asked, turning the information towards her.

“Yep, that's right! Now you see this? The word Lalafell?”

“Yes?”

“That's me. My kin and I are called Lalafell, and you may be gettin' into trouble if you call us anything else,” she said with a bit of a dark glare, as if remembering something with a bad taste. “So make sure you remember it, an' try to learn more about the city and its populace before you go puttin' your foot in your mouth out of ignorance.”

I swallowed hard and nodded. “I will endeavour to do so. Thank you, M-” I stumbled, remembering that she didn't like to be called Madam. “Momodi.”

“You just make yourself worthy of this gift, and when you're rich and famous, make sure to come back and spend lots of money here!”

I turned once more to leave the relative cool temperatures and sanctuary of the Quicksand.

[shardssystem]

What is your ocs magic? Dose it have a proper name? What dose it look like? How do they cast it? Dose it require any extra components to uses?

Liya’s magic is spiritual possession. Before the Mending, she would have to sense a compatible host, and enter their body, but now she is just shunted into a host upon planeswalking. The requirement of her possession is the host has to have spark potential, but not ignited yet, which can be limiting.

The closest name for Yri’s magic Is Prestidigitation; harmless, showy effects intended to distract. Sparkles, puffs of smoke, little sounds: all tools at her disposal. The only thing necessary is that Yri is actively concentrating.

Vasil technically doesn’t have magic. He generates and oozes a prototype Phyrexian oil from his skeletal frame due to experiments from a sleeper cell on Melenas to understand his spark and immortality. As the oil is biologically part of him, he can manipulate and shape it in combat for short periods of time; it’s still a liquid after all. Requires enough loose oil to make what he envisions. Could technically be called Elaiokinesis.

Similarly, Caidi doesn’t have actual magic, being a product of Simic science. They can transform their ooze body into different shapes by concentrating, though the form will still resemble an ooze, but can’t maintain it. The only form in their repertoire that isn’t instantly recognisable as an ooze is to take a genetic copy of Kolya as he could’ve been at 16, which upsets him, so they don’t do it often.

Speaking of Kolya, he possesses the power of Precognition. This has made him a valuable member of the Azorius guild, as his visions come in the form of dreams as opposed to the usual visual runic effect. And there were also those times where he hallucinated versions of himself from the future to reconcile the fact that he was transgender, but mostly dreams. Requires a sleeping mind.

The Coterie possess numerous magics, due to their multiple nature. By drawing a series of sigils with their non-dominant hand (or both, in Eyrn’s case) they have access to Vitality Extraction, Precognition, Duplication, and Necromancy, though their necromantic power is something they’re working on. Duplication takes a lot of energy, moreso while not on Plin, so it tends to be a temporary effect. Requires a free hand, and a small amount of time to draw the sigils, which must be accurate.

Thanks for the ask!